ETHNOBOTANICAL STUDIES ON HERBS AND SHRUBS OF TEHSIL TAUNSA SHARIF, DISTRICT DERA GHAZI KHAN, PUNJAB, PAKISTAN

Abstract

The present study aimed to document the traditional uses of the herbs and shrubs of Tehsil Taunsa Sharif, District Dera Ghazi Khan. The ethnobotanical significance and biodiversity conservation potential of the region was also found out. The area's ecological diversity, ranging from semi-arid plains to hilly terrains, supports a rich variety of flora long used by local communities to treat various ailments. Ethnobotanical data was gathered through interviews of the local inhabitants and herbal healers. The field surveys were carried out to collect the herbs and shrubs of the study area, followed by their identification, documentation using flora of Pakistan. A total of 60 plant species were identified, with Withania somnifera, Peganum harmala, and Suaeda fruticosa among the most commonly used medicinal plants. The Poaceae family was the most represented, comprising seven species and showing the highest Fidelity Level (FL) and Use Value (UV). These plants are crucial for rural primary healthcare, especially where modern facilities are scarce. Beyond their medicinal uses, these species play key ecological roles—preventing soil erosion, supporting pollinators, enhancing biodiversity, and regulating climate. The study underscores the urgent need to conserve both biological and cultural heritage. Preserving traditional knowledge and integrating it with modern pharmacological research could drive drug discovery and sustainable innovation. This research forms a baseline for future ecological and bio cultural conservation efforts in the region.