Quantitative Analysis of Medicinal plants used by the Traditional healers of Karanja block of Wardha district for treating Musculoskeletal disorders

Abstract

Background: 20% to30 % elderly population suffers with Musculoskeletal disorders such as Multiple joint pains, Low back pain, Rheumatoid arthritis, Osteoarthritis. Multiple treatment modalities are in vogue to treat MSDs all over the world but neither provides adequate pain relief nor modifies the disease process. Hence majority of the tribal population prefer traditional healers for treating MSDs as they are safe, effective, inexpensive and easily available. Aim & Objectives: Quantitative analysis of Medicinal plants used by the traditional healers of Karanja block of Wardha district for treating musculoskeletal disorders. Material & Methods: The survey study was carried out through field visits. Questionnaire, personal interviews and discussions with the traditional healers were used for data collection. Specific pharmacological properties of herbal drugs used by the traditional healers to treat MSDs were authenticated by taxonomist and forest range officer and verified through Nighantus and Samhitas. Observations & results: Total 17 traditional healers were interviewed for data collection. Total 23 plant species belonging to 20 families were indentified and documented for the treatment of MSDs.  Tribal utilized 9 varieties of plant parts from 4 types of habitat and treat the patients of MSDs with 5 types of medicinal preparations through external and internal applications.