Medicinal Plants of Nepal! Preserving the Past, Healing the Future

Explore the rich tapestry of Nepal's medicinal plants, preserving ancient healing traditions for a healthier future. Dive into nature's pharmacy! 🌿 #NepalMedicine

Nepal has a treasure trove of special plants with healing powers that have been used in traditional medicine for a long time. However, these plants are in danger of disappearing because of changes happening in the world, people using them too much, and not enough efforts to protect them. To solve this problem, we need to use these plants wisely based on what the local people know.

In the past, plants with healing properties were really important for the health of the community. More than half of these plants, about 55%, were found to be helpful in traditional medicine, and 37% were considered very important by the people who know about them. Some examples include Cordyceps sinensis for making people feel more romantic, Berberis asiatica for eye problems, Bergenia ciliata for breaking down stones in the body, Sapindus mukorossi for getting rid of dandruff, and Zanthoxylum armatum for toothaches. These plants have the potential to be used in medicine.

These special plants are very connected to the lives of the local people, and they have been using them for a very long time as part of their traditions and knowledge. But now, because of changes in how people live and think, these traditional ways are disappearing, and we need to find better ways to take care of these plants in the Baitadi district of Nepal, not only to keep our cultural heritage but also to make sure we don't lose important medicinal resources.

What is Medicinal Plants?

Medicinal plants are botanical species that possess therapeutic properties, and their various parts, such as leaves, roots, or seeds, are used for medicinal purposes. These plants have been traditionally employed in diverse cultures for healing and managing health conditions. The active compounds within them may have pharmacological effects, providing remedies for ailments. Medicinal plants play a crucial role in traditional medicine, alternative therapies, and even in the pharmaceutical industry, contributing to the development of drugs. They are valued for their natural healing properties and continue to be explored for their potential in maintaining and restoring human health.

Ten examples Of Medicinal Plants of Nepal

1. Cordyceps sinensis (Yarsagumba):

• Known for its aphrodisiac properties, this fungus grows on caterpillar larvae in the Himalayan region, valued for its medicinal use.

2. Berberis asiatica (Himalayan Barberry):

• Used to treat eye problems, the bark and roots of this shrub are integral to traditional remedies for improving vision.

3. Bergenia ciliata (Pashanbheda):

• Effective in treating calculi-related issues, this herb is valued for its ability to break down stones and promote kidney health.

4. Sapindus mukorossi (Reetha):

• Widely used for its anti-dandruff properties, the soapnut tree's fruit is an essential ingredient in traditional hair care remedies.

5. Zanthoxylum armatum (Timur):

• A plant with potent medicinal properties, its bark is used to alleviate toothaches, providing relief in traditional dental care.

6. Acorus calamus (Bach):

• Known for its therapeutic benefits, especially in treating digestive issues, Bach is valued in traditional herbal medicine.

7. Rhododendron arboreum (Gurans):

• Revered for its medicinal flowers, Gurans is used in traditional remedies for respiratory ailments and to boost overall health.

8. Valeriana jatamansi (Sugandhawal):

• Renowned for its calming effects, Sugandhawal's roots are used in traditional medicine to treat anxiety and promote relaxation.

9. Achyranthes aspera (Apamarga):

• Recognized for its anti-inflammatory properties, Apamarga is utilized in traditional remedies to alleviate various health issues.

10. Swertia chirata (Chiraito):

• Valued for its bitter taste, Chiraito is used in traditional medicine to treat digestive disorders and boost overall well-being.

Most Used 10 Medicinal Plants of nepal 

1.  Neem (Azadirachta indica): Known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

2. Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum): A revered herb with immune-boosting and stress-relieving benefits.

3. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller): Soothes skin and aids digestion.

4. Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Relieves nausea and has anti-inflammatory effects.

5. Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

6. Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum): Supports blood sugar control and has antimicrobial properties.

7. Garlic (Allium sativum): Known for its immune-boosting and heart health benefits.

8. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Adaptogenic herb, reducing stress and promoting vitality.

9. Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum): Aids digestion and helps manage blood sugar levels.

10. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus): Known for its calming and digestive properties.

National register of medicinal plants of Nepal

The National Register of Medicinal Plants of Nepal showcases a diverse array of botanical treasures. Among them, Alainchi (Amomum subulatum), Amata (Phyllanthus emblica), Arandi (Ricinus communis), Ashoka (Saraca asoca), and many more contribute to the rich herbal heritage. Each plant, from the healing Neem to the rejuvenating Tulsi, holds significance in traditional practices. This comprehensive list, spanning from Aloe Vera to Yarsa Gomba (Cordyceps sinensis), reflects the wealth of natural remedies in Nepal, emphasizing the importance of preserving this invaluable botanical legacy for future generations.

Lists Of Some Registered Medicinal Plants Of Nepal

•  Alainchi (Amomum subulatum)

•  Amata (Phyllanthus emblica)

•  Arandi (Ricinus communis)

•  Ashoka (Saraca asoca)

•  Asuro (Adhatoda vasica)

•  Atis (Aconitum heterophyllum)

•  Bajradanti (Polemonium caeruleum)

•  Balu (Sida cordifolia)

•  Ban lasun (Lilium nepalense)

•  Baralikand (Pueraria tuberosa)

•  Barro (Terminalia bellirica)

•  Bel (Aegle marmelos)

•  Bhal~yo (Semecarpus anacardium)

•  Bhale-Sunpati (Rhododendron leptothamnus)

•  Bhang (Cannabis sativa)

•  Bhringaraj (Eclipta prostrata)

•  Bhui Amata (Phyllanthus amarus)

•  Bhui Amala (Phyllanthus urinaria)

•  Bhutkesh (Selinum tenuifolium)

•  Bhutkesh (Selinum lenudolium)

•  Bikha (Aconitum heterophyllum)

•  Bikha (Aconitum spicatum)

•  Bikhama (Aconitum balfourii)

•  Bilouni (Maesa chisia)

•  Bojho (Acorus calamus)

•  Champ (Michelia champaca)

•  Chhatiwan (Alstonia scholaris)

•  Chiraito (Swertia alata)

•  Chiraito (Swertia angustifolia)

•  Chiraito (Swertia bimaculata)

•  Chiraito (Swertia chirayita)

•  Chiraito (Swertia ciliata)

•  Chiraito (Swertia paniculata)

•  Chiraito (Swertia mullicaulis)

•  Chitu (Plumbago zeylanica)

•  Chopchini (Smilax aspera)

•  Chutro (Berberis aristata)

•  Chutro (Berberis asiatica)

•  Chyuri (Aesandra butyracea)

•  Datiwan (Achyranthes aspera)

•  Datiwan (Achyranthes bidentata)

•  Dhainyaro (Woodfordia fruticosa)

•  Dhasingare (Ou/theria fragrans)

•  Dhatura (Datura metel)

•  Dhatura (Datura stramonium)

•  Dhupi (Juniperus communis)

•  Dhupi (Juniperus indica)

•  Dhupi (Juniperus recurva)

•  Dronapuspa (Leucas cephalotes)

•  Eklebir (Lobelia pyramidalis)

•  Gamdol (Brachycorythis obcordata)

•  Ghodtapre (Centella asiatica)

•  Ghuchi chyau (Morchella esculenta)

•  Ghritkumari (Aloe vera)

•  Gobresalla/Talispatra (Abies spectabilis)

•  Gokhur (Tribulus terrestris)

•  Gujargano (Cissampelos pareira)

•  Gurjo (Tinospora sinensis)

•  Haledo (Curcuma angustifolia)

•  Harchur (Viscum album)

•  Harchur (Viscum articulatum)

•  Harro (Terminalia chebula)

•  Indrajau (Holarrhena pubescens)

•  Indrayani (Trichosanthes tricuspidata)

•  Jamane mandro (Mahonia nepalensis)

•  Jamun (Syzygium cumini)

•  Jatamansi (Nardostachys grandiflora)

•  Jhyau (Parmelia nepalensis)

•  Jhyau (Parmelia cetrata)

•  Jhyau (Parmelia nilgherrensis)

•  Jhyau (Parmelia tinctorium)

•  Jhyau (Usnea thomsonii)

•  Jimbu (Allium przewalskianum)

•  Jimbu (Allium hypsistum)

•  Jiwanti (Ephedra gerardiana)

•  Jiwanti (Otochilus porrectus)

•  Kachur (Curcuma zedoaria)

•  Kakad singhi (insect gall on Pistacia) (Pistacia chinensis)

•  Kakad singhi (insect gall on Pistacia) (Pistacia khinjuk)

•  Kakoli (Fritillaria cirrhosa)

•  Kalo shariva (Ichnocarpus frutescens)

•  Kalo shariva (Cryptolepis buchananii)

•  Kalo-Bikha (Aconitum jaciniatum)

•  Kaphal (Myrica esculenta)

•  Khas khas (Vetiveria zizanioides)

•  Khayer (Acacia catechu)

•  Khirro (Wrightia arborea)

•  Koiralo (Bauhinia variegata)

•  Kurilo (Asparagus racemosus)

•  Kustha (Cosmos speciosus)

•  Kutki (Picrorhiza scrophulariiflora)

•  Laghu patra (Podophyllum hexandrum)

•  Lodh (Symplocos paniculata)

•  Maharangi (Maharanga emodi)

•  Majitho (Rubia manjith)

•  Mothe (Cyperus rotundus)

•  Musali (Curculigo orchioides)

•  Nagebeli (Lycopodium clavatum)

•  Nagkesar (Mesua ferrea)

•  Neem (Azadirachta indica)

•  Ninnashi (Aconitum gammiei)

•  Nisoth (Operculina turpethum)

•  Nun dhiki (Osyris wightiana)

•  Okhar (Juglans regia)

•  Padam puskar (Iris decora)

•  Padamchal (Rheum australe)

•  Padamchal (Rheum nobile)

•  Padbiri (Paederia foetida)

•  Painlet/Desi neem (Murraya koenigii)

•  Palans (Butea monosperma)

•  Panchaunle (Dactylorhiza hatagirea)

•  Pangra (Entada phaseoloides)

•  Pashanvedh (Bergenia ciliata)

•  Pipala (Piper longum)

•  Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa)

•  Puskaramul (Smilax recemosa)

•  Raasna (Pluchea lanceolata)

•  Rajbriksha (Cassia fistula)

•  Rati gedi (Abrus precatorius)

•  Rittha (Sapindus mukorossi)

•  Rudraksha (Elaeocarpus sphaericus)

•  Sano chilya (Sida rhombifolia)

•  Sarpagandha (Rauwolfia serpentina)

•  Satuwa (Paris polyphylla)

•  Sikakai (Acacia rugata)

•  Silphium (Crateva unilocularis)

•  Siltimur (Lindera neesiana)

•  Simal (Bombax ceiba)

•  Simali (Acer negundo)

•  Sindhure (Mallotus philippensis)

•  Somalata (Ephedra gerardiana)

•  Sugandhakokila (Cinnamomum glaucescens)

•  Sugandawala (Valeriana jatamansi)

•  Sunpati (Rhododendron anthopogon)

•  Sutho (Zingiber officinale)

•  Talispatra/Loth salla (Taxus baccata L. subsp. wallichiana)

•  Talmakhana (Hygrophila auriculata)

•  Tanki (Bauhinia purpurea)

•  Tatelo (Oroxylum indicum)

•  Tejpat/Dalchini (Cinnamomum tamala)

•  Thulo Okhati (Asilbe rivularis)

•  Timur (Zanthoxylum armatum)

•  Tite pati (Artemisia indica)

•  Tukiphul (Taraxacum officinale)

•  Tulasi (Ocimum tenuiflorum)

•  Vayuvidanga (Embelia ribes)

•  Vyakur (Dioscorea bulbifera)

•  Vyakur (Dioscorea deltoidea)

•  Vyakur (Dioscorea prazeri)

•  Yarsa Gomba (Cordyceps sinensis)

Medicinal Plants Used in Herbal Remedies 

Herbal remedies, made from single Medicinal Plant or special combinations, provide a natural way to help our bodies stay healthy. In a special recipe from the Newar community, they mix Artemisia indica, Centella asiatica, Drymaria cordata, Mentha spicata, Oxalis corniculata, Tagetes erecta, Oroxylum indicum seeds, dried sprouts of Oryza sativa, Picrasma quassioides wood, and limestone powder to make a strong potion that can help with different health problems.

Newari medicine is unique because it uses many different plants to treat various illnesses. These remedies can be taken in different ways, like drinking (66.33%), putting on the skin (23.47%), using in the nose, and other ways (10.2%). The healer decides how much to use based on their knowledge, and they also decide how often and for how long someone should use the remedy. This shows how herbal medicine is personalized and careful in helping people stay well.

The latex from the Calotropis gigantea plant can be used to treat skin problems. This plant is known in Ayurvedic medicine for its many medicinal properties, such as fighting germs, helping with digestion, and acting against fever and bacteria.

Drymaria cordata, another plant, can also help reduce fever due to its content of saponins, phytosterols, and phenols. People in our survey mentioned using the plant's juice for treating rhinitis and sinusitis.

In villages, people use the peel of ripe mangoes to treat stomach issues. While other studies focus on the bark and roots for medicinal purposes, here, the fruit peel is commonly used.

Wrightia arborea, a plant indicated by our informants, is used to address gastrointestinal problems. Its pod septum, consumed raw, was found to help with intestinal disorders.

Rhaphidophora glauca, a plant native to Himalayan regions, has a unique use. Its juice, obtained from aerial parts, is given to women to improve pregnancy. This use wasn't mentioned in previous studies on Tamang folk medicine.

Arenaria benthamii, a plant from the Caryophyllaceae family, is used to fill pillows to relieve cold and cough symptoms, a use not reported before.

Strobilanthes pentastemonoides root juice is used for treating high fever, a new finding not documented previously.

Cipadessa baccifera's stem juice is highly regarded by shamans for countering food and drink poisoning, a use not reported before.

Cirsium wallichii root juice is considered useful for urinary problems, weakness, and malarial fever. Its root is also studied for antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.

Coriaria nepalensis's ripe fruits and plant juice are used for indigestion, contrary to the belief that its leaves and fruits are poisonous.

Bryophyllum pinnatum is described as useful against kidney stones, consistent with other studies.

Momordica charantia is used locally to lower blood pressure, contrary to its common use as an antidiabetic in traditional medicine.

Jasminum mesnyi is reported to cure fever and typhoid in the surveyed area.

Achyranthes bidentata, known for treating urinary ailments in a previous study, is now found to be used for fever and maternal ailments.

History Of Medicinal Plants

Long ago, people used plants to help with sickness. This has been happening for a very long time, even when humans first started living in groups. In the old days, around 5,000 years ago, the Sumerians wrote down 12 ways to make medicine using over 250 plants like poppy, henbane, and mandrake. The Chinese Emperor Shen Nung talked about 365 plant medicines around 2500 B.C., including Gentian, Ginseng, Jimson weed, Cinnamon bark, and Ephedra plants. In India, a very old book talked about using plants for healing between 1500 and 500 B.C. In 1550 B.C., another ancient book listed 700 plant medicines like pomegranate, castor oil plant, aloe, senna, garlic, onion, fig, and willow.

The history of using plants for medicine can be split into five periods: prehistoric, ancient, middle age, early modern age, and modern age. Even in prehistoric times, people used many plants for treating diseases, and they also used spices to keep food from spoiling. Burial sites from long ago show evidence of using plants for medicine. In ancient Mesopotamia, the Sumerians used hundreds of medicinal plants. In Southeast Asia, around 3,000 years ago, Ayurveda was developed based on ancient texts like the Atharvaveda, the Rig Veda, and the Sushrutasamhita.

Around 60 A.D., a Greek doctor wrote about over 600 medicinal plants. In the Middle Ages (between the 5th and late 15th centuries), people started writing down information about medicinal plants based on traditional knowledge and herbal gardens. Herbal medicines like Ayurveda, Siddha, Amchi, Chinese, and Tibetan systems began to grow in different parts of the world during this time. But it was in the modern age (between the 19th and 20th centuries) that we started using chemistry and special tools to learn more about medicinal plants and make medicines from them.

Medicinal and Aromatic Plants in Nepal

Medicinal and aromatic plants, or MAPs for short, are special plants that can be used for health purposes. Some plants, called medicinal plants or herbal drugs, have properties that can help with our health. People around the world use these plants in traditional and modern medicine to treat different health issues. These plants can be used in various forms, like raw, processed, or semi-processed, and sometimes they are combined with other plants or ingredients.

Aromatic plants have special compounds that make them smell nice. We can extract these compounds in the form of essential oils, which are concentrated liquids. Essential oils are often taken from different parts of plants like leaves, barks, buds, flowers, fruits, and seeds through a process called distillation. These oils have many uses, such as making cosmetics, perfumes, medicines, and even for aromatherapy, which helps us feel better. Some plant oils, like Basil, Calendula, Cinnamon, Citronella, Eucalyptus, Lemongrass, and Peppermint, also have health benefits. They can help us relax, improve our mood, relieve pain, and even help us sleep better at night.

Nepal, located between India and China, is known for its rich Himalayan herbs used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. The tradition of using Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (MAPs) dates back over 7,000 years. According to Hindu mythology, Hanuman brought healing herbs from the Indian Mountains to treat Ram's brother Laxman.

In Nepal, various traditional medical practices like Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, and Tibetan (Sowa Rigpa) have been followed. The dominant practice is Ayurveda, which focuses on balancing three principles called "VATA," "PITTA," and "KAPHA (COUGH)" for optimal health. These practices have roots in the ancient Hindu culture and are connected to Veda and Hindu civilization.

In addition to Ayurveda, other practitioners like Amchi (Tibetan), Siddha, and Unani also use medicinal plants for treatments in Nepal. Many of these Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (MAPs) are exported to countries like India, China, Europe, and America due to their unique bioactive compounds and medical efficiency. The international demand for Nepal's MAPs is high because of these special qualities.

Traditional Use Of Medicinal and Aromatic plants of Nepal

In Nepal, many people live in rural areas, and most of them use traditional remedies made from plants to stay healthy. These remedies are considered safe and affordable. In different parts of Nepal, people follow various traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, Tibetan, and Chinese. In the north, influenced by Tibetan culture, they practice Tibetan medicine. In the south, near India, they mainly follow Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani. In places like Kathmandu, where there are many different ethnic groups, the use of medicinal plants also varies. Some ethnic groups, like Tharu, Danuwar, Tamang, Chepang, and Rai, rely more on traditional healing methods.

The use of medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) in Nepal became more popular after the establishment of the Herbs Production and Processing Company in 1981. This company extracts essential oils from Himalayan herbs and other plants. It played a significant role in making essential oil production an industry in Nepal. Nowadays, many companies in Nepal extract essential oils from plants like Mentha, Matricaria chamomilla, Lemongrass, Jatamansi, Eucalyptus spp., Zanthoxylum armatum, Gaultheria fragrantissima, and Lichen. These enterprises export essential oils and similar products, contributing significantly to Nepal's foreign currency earnings. According to United Nations COMTRADE data, Nepal exported essential oils, perfumes, and toiletries more then $20 million in 2023

Some Important Medicinal And Aromatics Plants list of  Nepal.

1. Cuscuta reflexa - Akasebeli

2. Amomum subulatum - Alainchi

3. Phyllanthus emblica - Amala

4. Psidium guajava - Amba

5. Ricinus communis - Arandi

6. Terminalia arjuna - Arjunchhal

7. Justica adhatoda - Ashuro

8. Withania somnifera - Aswagandha

9. Aconitum heterophyllum - Attish

10. Aegle marmelos - Bael

11. Polen lilla fulgense - Bajradanti

12. Melia azedarach - Bakaino

13. Sida cordifolia - Balujhar

14. Ocimum basilicum - Bamari

15. Lilium nepalense - Ban lasun

16. Terminalia bellirica - Barro

17. Cissampelos pareira - Batupate

18. Ziziphus mauritiana - Bayer

19. Semecarpus anacardium - Bhalayao

20. Cannabis sativa - Bhanga/ganja

21. Betula utilis - Bhojpatra

22. Eclipta prostrata - Bhringaraj

23. Phyllanthus amarus - Bhui Amala

24. Phyllanthus niruri - Bhuiamala

25. Selinum candolli - Bhutkesh

26. Selinum tenifolium - Bhutkesh

27. Solanum indicum - Bihi

28. Aconitum ferox - Bikha

29. Aconitum heterophyllum - Bikha

30. Aconitum spicatum - Bikha

31. Aconitum bisma - Bikhma

32. Maesa chisia - Bilaune

33. Pueraria tuberosa - Biralikanda

34. Acorus calamus - Bojho

35. Michelia champaca - Chanp

36. Alstonia scholaris - Chhatiwan

37. Swertia alata - Chiraito

38. Swertia angustifolia - Chiraito

39. Swertia bimacudata - Chiraito

40. Swertia chirayita - Chiraito

41. Swertia ciliata - Chiraito

42. Swertia paniculata - Chiraito

43. Swertia multicaulis - Chiraito

44. Plumbago zeylanica - Chitu

45. Smilax aspera - Chopchini

46. Berberis aristata - Chutro

47. Berberis asiatica - Chutro

48. Aesandra butyracea - Chyuri

49. Cymbopogon nardus - Citronella

50. Prinsepia utilis - Datelo