TRADITIONAL USES OF SOME USEFUL MEDICINAL PLANTS OF ZIARAT DISTRICT BALOCHISTAN, PAKISTAN
Abstract
The study area is located in the northeastern region of Ziarat District Baluchistan at altitude ranging from 2000-3000m, which geographically extend between latitude 30o 18`N to 30o 30`N and longitude 67o 54` E to 67o 57` E. The highest peak in the study area is Koh-Khalifat (3,475 m).This paper reports the survey conducted to elaborate the floristic composition & some folk uses of medicinal herbs in Ziarat District. During the survey and plant collection, 90 species of different taxa belonging to 35 families are used medicinally by the local people for various ailments. This diversity was due to the difference in climate, altitude, microclimate and other topographic conditions. The locals use medicinal herbs for the treatment of various diseases, since ages. It was noted that over grazing of the vegetation, ruthless collection of medicinal plants have threatened their existence and more plants are becoming vulnerable due to destruction of their natural habitat. Hopefully this research paper will generate wide interest in protecting and preserving plant diversity of economically important species. It was also recorded that majority of plants are being utilized in indigenous medicine for remedy of various diseases. The area has great potential for fodder and medicinal plant exploitation economically.
