Unveiling the Indigenous Ethnomedicinal knowledge of Genus Nepeta from Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Pakistan

Background: Medicinal plants have a high value to humans due to their medicinal constituents and potential biological consequences. The current study provides valuable insights into the Nepeta genus and its significant ethnobotanical worth within the rich diversity landscape of the division of Muzaffarabad. Methods: Ethnomedicinal data was gathered by using a questionnaire and the group discussion method. Group discussions were carried out in local dialect to facilitate clear communication with local populations. The quantitative metrics were applied to the data, such as use value (UV), relative frequency citation (RFC), and informant’s consensus factor (ICF). Results: The members of the Nepeta genus are mostly distributed in the subtropical to alpine zone. A total of 22 medicinal plants were recorded in the study area. These medicinal plants are extensively used by local communities for the treatment of nine major disease categories. The most frequently used medicinal remedy is decoction (38.46%). Therophyte and microphylls were recorded as the dominant life and leaf forms, respectively. Among the medicinal plants, herbs (100%) were most frequently used by the local populations of Kashmir, whereas leaves (44.4%) were used for the treatment of various ailments. Additionally, the highest value of ICF was calculated for the cold and fever category (0.89). Conclusions: The Nepeta genus exhibits therapeutic properties that are promising for several kinds of disorders; however, clinical research is required to confirm preclinical results. Incorporating conservation strategies while providing basic amenities to residents will help with the restoration and conservation of the local flora in Muzaffarabad. Keywords: Ailments, Ethnobotanical uses, Lamiaceae, Nepeta, Western Himalayas

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