DOI: 10.36347/sajb.2016.v04i03.027

Pages: 304-311

In the present investigation deals with the use of medicinal plants for various ailments by Malayali tribes living in Jawadhuhills, Thiruvannamalai District, Tamil Nadu, India. One hundred and eighty six Malayali tribes were selected for investigation using questionnaire, discussions, and personal interviews during regular field trips. The ethno-botanical survey was carried out in the Malayali population residing in this area during the period of 2013 to 2015. The findings of the study results reveal that the identification of 89 medicinal plants species belonging to 42 families and 20 genera has documented. The plant species used to cure heart attack, diabetics, tuberculosis, ulcer, snake bites, headache, cold, cough, skin diseases, dental problems, wounds and fever etc. The indigenous knowledge available with these people plays an important role in quick and proper identification of natural resources. The study revealed that about 89 species and their scientific name, family, vernacular name (Tamil), parts used, mode of preparation and medicinal uses were documented. To acquire raw plant materials using ethno-botanical field interviews as starting point to discover new bioactive compounds from medicinal plants. The research show the ways for further investigation in the field of pharmacology and Ethno botany etc.