Medicinal Herbs Plants of Far-west Nepal ~ NepalAyurveds.com

Discover the rich diversity of medicinal herbs in Far-west Nepal. Explore the healing properties of indigenous plants thriving in this region's unique ecosystem.

Far-west Nepal is home to a diverse array of medicinal herbs plants, offering a rich pharmacopeia deeply embedded in traditional healing practices. From the slopes of the Himalayas to the lush valleys, this region boasts a treasure trove of botanical resources that have been used for generations to treat various ailments. Plants like chiraito, kutki, and jatamansi are revered for their healing properties and are integral to the local herbal medicine tradition. These medicinal herbs not only hold cultural significance but also attract scientific interest for their potential therapeutic benefits. As efforts to conserve biodiversity and traditional knowledge gain momentum, the medicinal herbs plants of Far-west Nepal remain a source of fascination and promise for both traditional healers and modern researchers alike.

Medicinal Herbs Plant has been used for a long time in many parts of the world where people don't have much access to modern healthcare. In Nepal, especially in the countryside and mountains where it's hard to get to hospitals, herbal medicine is the main way people treat sicknesses. About 90% of Nepalese people live in these areas, so they rely a lot on herbal medicine because they don't have easy access to government hospitals.

The knowledge of herbal medicine comes from old traditions, passed down through generations. It includes things like using plants found nearby to make remedies. People trust herbal medicine because it usually has fewer side effects, costs less, and fits with their culture. Even though modern medicine is available in some places, many people still prefer herbal medicine.

In Nepal, Medicinal Herbs Plant is mainly practiced in rural areas where modern healthcare is hard to reach. This is because modern medicine is often expensive and hospitals are far away. Healers use different parts of plants to make medicines for various illnesses. Some plants used in herbal medicine in Nepal are also used in other parts of the country.

In a study, researchers found that many plants used in herbal medicine in Nepal have been reported before for similar uses. Some plants also have connections to Ayurveda, an ancient Indian healing system. Many plants have been shown to have medicinal properties according to modern science.

Different families of plants are commonly used in herbal medicine in Nepal. Some common health issues treated with herbal medicine include inflammation, cuts and wounds, diarrhea, and fever. People use various parts of plants like the roots, leaves, and fruits to make remedies.

Aklebir (Lobelia pyramidalis)

Known by various names such as Aklebir and Eklebir, Lobelia's juice extracted from leaves and flowers is employed in traditional practices to alleviate body ache, acting as an antispasmodic agent. Its effectiveness extends to respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis, as well as fevers. Rich in lobeline and radicamine, Lobelia offers expectorant properties and relief from sciatica and back pain, although excessive use may lead to adverse effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Ganja (Cannabis sativa )

Referred to as Ganja or Bhang, Cannabis sativa's leaf juice serves to staunch bleeding and promote wound healing, besides addressing stomach ailments. Recognized for its antispasmodic and sedative attributes, it aids in diarrhea treatment. Notably containing cannabigerol, cannabidiol, and friedelin, its leaves find usage in smoking as a snuff for pain alleviation and inflammation reduction, with lectins showcasing hemagglutinating properties.

Dampate (Scutellaria discolor)

Utilized as Ratpatya or Dampate, Scutellaria discolor finds application in wound care through the application of whole plant or leaf paste. Its juice is esteemed for alleviating headaches, fevers, and rheumatism, while root extracts exhibit anxiolytic effects due to wogonin content. Known to treat indigestion and rheumatism, this herb offers a holistic approach to various ailments.

Bedu (Ficus palmata)

Recognized as Bedu, Ficus palmata's milk effectively removes thorns from wounds, with its latex aiding in expelling spines. Its fruits act as demulcents and laxatives, beneficial for conditions like constipation and lung disorders, owing to the presence of friedelin and tannins. Embracing a wide spectrum of medicinal uses, from addressing lung and bladder issues to serving as demulcents and laxatives, Ficus palmata stands as a versatile herbal remedy.

Viywal (Grewia disperma )

Known as Viywal or Syalpuchre, Grewia disperma's root juice functions as an expectorant, while its wood paste proves effective against skin ailments. Valued for its bark's expectorant properties and ability to control bleeding and bronchitis, this herb's fruits are esteemed as cardiotonic agents. Grewia disperma embodies a multifaceted approach to health, catering to respiratory concerns and cardiovascular health alike.

Laghupatra (Podophyllum hexandrum)

Podophyllum, commonly known as May apple, is renowned for its medicinal properties. The root juice is traditionally consumed to alleviate liver complaints, while the plant is recognized for its hepato-stimulant and purgative effects. Additionally, the root paste finds application in treating ulcers, cuts, and wounds. Rich in compounds like aryltetralin, astragalin, and podophyllotoxin, Podophyllum exhibits various therapeutic actions such as antifungal and antitumor properties. Notably, aqueous extracts of the plant display promising antitumor effects, making it a significant herb in traditional medicine practices.

Bajradanti (Potentilla fulgens)

Himalayan Cinquefoil, also known as Phosre, holds significance in traditional medicine, with its dried roots commonly used as a dentifrice and tooth powder for toothache. Rich in carotene, flavonoids, and polyphenols, the plant exhibits medicinal properties, including reducing the germination of food crops. Its roots are valued for their efficacy against toothache and serve as a natural remedy for oral health issues.

Jangali jira (Carum carvi)

Caraway, or Jangali jira, is esteemed for its diverse medicinal uses. The fruits are applied to alleviate swelling of the breast and testicles, while the plant's juice is beneficial for muscular swellings. Caraway seeds find applications in treating uterinal complaints, acting as antidysenteric, anthelminthic, and carminative agents. Rich in compounds like carvone and limonene, Carum carvi displays anthelmintic and antioxidative properties, making it a valuable herb in traditional medicine systems.

Bikh (Aconitum spicatum)

Nepalese Aconite, also known as Bikh, possesses potent medicinal properties attributed to its root juice, which exhibits antipyretic and analgesic effects. Traditionally used for tonsillitis, sore throat, and gastritis, the plant is rich in compounds like bikhaconitine and caffeic acid, known for their antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. Aconitum spicatum holds significance in traditional medicine for its therapeutic potential in alleviating various ailments.

Lothsalla (Taxus wallichiana)

Himalayan Yew, known as Kandeloto, is esteemed for its medicinal properties, particularly its leaf juice, which is used in treating cancer and bronchitis. Rich in compounds like paclitaxel and docetaxol, Taxus wallichiana exhibits inhibitory effects on tumor growth. Additionally, its extracts are known for their efficacy against asthma and bronchitis. This plant holds promise in complementary and alternative medicine for its potential in managing respiratory disorders and cancer.

Khair (Acacia catechu)

Cutch tree, commonly known as Khair, offers various medicinal benefits, with its wood decoction used to treat cough, cold, and toothache. Rich in catechuic acid and taxifolin, Acacia catechu displays hypoglycemic, antipyretic, and digestive properties. Its wood is valued in traditional medicine for expectorating chest infections, showcasing its significance in managing respiratory ailments.

Mahuwa ( Engelhardia spicata)

Engelhardia spicata, commonly known as Mahuwa, is utilized in traditional medicine for various ailments. The flower juice of Mahuwa is ingested to alleviate abdominal pain, cough, and cold. Additionally, the bark of this medicinal herb is employed as a piscidal agent. Chemical compounds such as Engelhardtione and oleanolic acid found in Mahuwa exhibit antitubercular activities. Its diverse medicinal properties make Mahuwa a valuable resource in herbal medicine.

Wild mango (Spondias pinnata)

Spondias pinnata, also known as Bile tree or Wild mango, offers medicinal benefits particularly through its latex and plant juice. The latex is applied topically for wounds and cuts, while the plant juice is effective against dysentery and rheumatism. Notably, compounds like flavonoids found in Spondias pinnata help inhibit intestinal motility and hydroelectrolytic secretion, offering potential relief for diarrheal conditions. Its versatility in treating various ailments underscores its significance in traditional medicine.

Kusum (Schleichera oleosa)

Schleichera oleosa, commonly referred to as Macassar tree or Honey tree, boasts medicinal properties primarily in its fruits and seed oil. The fruits serve as an anthelmintic and are valued for their use in treating heat stroke and stimulating appetite. Moreover, the seed oil is utilized for managing skin diseases. Chemical constituents like oleic acid and campesterol contribute to its therapeutic effects, while fruit juice is known to stimulate hair growth. These attributes establish Schleichera oleosa as a valuable medicinal herb.

Chimal (Rhododendron campanulatum)

Rhododendron campanulatum, known as Chimal, holds medicinal significance particularly in its flowers and seeds. The flowers are employed to alleviate body ache and throat pain, while the seeds aid in digestion. Extracts from the leaves are utilized in treating rheumatism and syphilis. Rich in compounds such as amyrid, gallic acid, and ursolic acid, Rhododendron campanulatum offers potential benefits in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases and cancer. However, caution is advised as certain components like andromedotoxin can be poisonous to livestock. Overall, the therapeutic potential of Rhododendron campanulatum underscores its importance in Medicinal Herbs Plant.

Gargalo (Boehmeria platyphylla)

Root paste from this medicinal herb is applied to control bleeding, while its juice is administered for stomachaches and dysentery. However, caution must be exercised as the plant juice is toxic to fish. Boehmeria platyphylla contains compounds such as acetophenone, cryptopleurine, and secophenanthroqlinolizidine. Additionally, the leaf juice finds application in treating cuts and wounds.

Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata )

The raw root juice of Andrographis paniculata is known for its antipyretic properties and effectiveness against infections. Widely used in traditional medicine, it is beneficial for curing malarial and intermittent fever, dysentery, and liver disorders. Rich in compounds like andrographolide and kalmeghin, this herb exhibits immunostimulant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, analgesic, and antiprotozoal properties, along with aiding in liver protection and digestion.

Khirro (Sapium insigne)

The milky latex of Sapium insigne acts as a skin irritant and is utilized as a fish poison when sprayed in streams and tributaries. Bark latex serves to dispel worms and germs in livestock, while the plant's overall latex is vesicant. Chemical constituents such as corilagin and guijaverin are found in this herb. Furthermore, leaf extract is employed for treating snake bites.

Simali (Vitex negundo)

Utilized for various ailments, Vitex negundo's leaf juice is effective against stomachaches, while the plant juice is used for headaches and gastric troubles. The herb contains compounds like agnusid and aucubin, exhibiting antibacterial properties and aiding in lowering blood glucose levels. Additionally, it is beneficial for inhibiting edema, tracheal contraction, and treating dermatitis and fever.

Chillo Pate (Skimmia anquetilia)

The infusion of Skimmia anquetilia leaves is taken for headaches and to feel refreshed. Renowned for its aromatic leaves, the herb is traditionally used to alleviate headaches and fevers. Chemical constituents such as linalool and geraniol are present, with linalool potentially possessing an anxiolytic effect.

Pirrhe (Persicaria barbata )

Stem juice from Persicaria barbata is valued for treating boils and pimples, while root paste finds application in managing scabies, wounds, and swellings. Additionally, stem decoction is beneficial for ulcers. This herb's leaves exhibit astringent, rubifacient, and vermifuge properties, with the plant decoction being used to relieve pain and rheumatism.

Koiralo (Bauhinia variegate )

Bauhinia variegata's flowers and floral buds are consumed to cure leucorrhea and mumps, while its juice is taken for dysentery and diarrhea. Dried flowers are beneficial for treating diarrhea, dysentery, and piles. The flowers themselves possess astringent properties and aid in managing diarrhea and hemorrhage. Rich in compounds like butein and lupeol, the herb's bark extract demonstrates remarkable antimicrobial and anticancer activities.

Pipal (Ficus religiosa

The bark juice of Ficus religiosa is applied to treat paralysis, and its decoction is administered for gonorrhea and skin diseases. Known for its astringent properties, the bark aids in managing hemorrhages and promoting the healing of external wounds. Chemical constituents such as phytosterolin and vitamin K contribute to its efficacy, with methanolic stem bark extract being useful for memory longevity and analgesia.

Kurkure (Equisetum diffuse)

Used traditionally, the stem juice of Equisetum diffusum is given for gonorrhea, while root juice is administered for urinary troubles, sprains, fractures, burns, and scabies. This herb exhibits diuretic properties and is beneficial for treating gonorrhea. Rich in compounds like apigenin and ascorbic acid, the plant extract shows good free radical scavenging activity.

Mamira (Parnassia nubicola)

The root paste of Parnassia nubicola is applied to soothe eye inflammation and wounds, as well as to alleviate body aches and headaches. Although not specified, the herb may contain active compounds contributing to its therapeutic effects. Methanolic root extract exhibits a moderate anti-inflammatory effect.

Kafal (Myrica esculenta)

For medicinal purposes, the fruits of Myrica esculenta are consumed to treat dysentery, while bark decoction is used for bronchitis. Known for its efficacy, the bark manages coughs, asthma, sinusitis, chronic bronchitis, diarrhea, and dysentery. Chemical constituents such as friedelin and myricitrin are present, with methanolic root extract demonstrating potent anti-inflammatory effects.

Banko (Arisaema flavum)

Known locally as Banko, Arisaema flavum is a member of the Araceae family, recognized for its medicinal properties. The rhizome juice of this plant is commonly applied to alleviate earaches and various skin ailments, while the young shoots are prepared as a nutritious vegetable. Additionally, the leaves serve as a laxative and the tubers are utilized to alleviate toothaches, stomachaches, and chest infections. Chemical analysis reveals the presence of compounds such as alanine, ariseminone, and cysteine. Although its antiviral properties are relatively weak, methanolic extracts from the tubers have shown some efficacy against viruses.

Neem (Azadirachta indica)

Neem, scientifically known as Azadirachta indica, is celebrated for its multifaceted medicinal applications. Both raw and dried leaves are employed in treating fever and blood disorders, while being recognized for their anthelmintic properties and effectiveness against coughs, asthma, and urinary issues. Neem leaves are also utilized for skin conditions, ulcers, and wound healing due to their rich content of compounds like nimbidin and azadirachtin. Additionally, extracts from the bark exhibit antibacterial properties, while leaf extracts display hypoglycemic effects, making neem a versatile herbal remedy.

Ratocharpate (Anisomeles indica)

Anisomeles indica, commonly referred to as Malabar catmint, is esteemed for its diverse medicinal applications. Extracts from its leaves are particularly useful for urinary complaints, while the plant itself is known for its astringent and tonic properties, benefiting urinary and uterine health. Chemical analysis reveals the presence of various compounds including ovatodiolide and pedallitin, which exhibit potent anti-inflammatory effects. Moreover, ethanolic leaf extracts demonstrate strong antiviral properties, highlighting the therapeutic potential of this herb.

Jhyau (Lichen species)

Lichen, known locally as Jhyau, is utilized for its healing properties, with extracts and decoctions commonly applied to treat moles and wounds. A paste derived from lichen serves as an effective ointment and antibiotic for cuts and injuries, while also acting as a cardiac tonic. Chemical constituents such as usnic acid and vulpinic acid contribute to its antimicrobial properties, making it valuable in treating various dermatological conditions and cranial diseases.

Gobre Salla (Abies spectabilis)

Himalayan Silver Fir, scientifically termed Abies spectabilis, finds extensive use in traditional medicine for respiratory ailments. The leaves are employed for relieving coughs and colds, with plant needle oil prized for its effectiveness against nasal congestion. Additionally, leaf decoctions are utilized to alleviate symptoms of bronchitis and asthma, along with other conditions such as rheumatism and tuberculosis. Chemical analysis reveals the presence of compounds like β-pinene and ephedrine, which exhibit anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties, emphasizing the therapeutic significance of this plant.

Baanjh (Quercus lanata)

Wooly Oak, locally known as Latyaz, is valued for its laxative properties, with heartwood often brewed as tea. Its resin is utilized to soothe body aches and treat dysentery. Chemical constituents such as tannins contribute to its anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial in managing various inflammatory conditions.

Ban Kankri (Solena heterophylla)

Ban Kankri, or Solena heterophylla, is esteemed for its medicinal fruits, which are consumed to alleviate symptoms of common cold and pneumonia in children, and to relieve throat pain and fever. Its root juice is used to address dysuria and spermatorrhea. Chemical analysis reveals the presence of compounds such as behemic acid and columbin, which contribute to its hepatoprotective properties and inhibit platelet aggregation, highlighting its therapeutic potential.

Siringe (Osmanthes fragrans)

Tree Jasmine, scientifically termed Osmanthes fragrans, is valued for its medicinal leaves and stem bark. Leaf juice is consumed to alleviate fever and colds, while stem bark is used for treating boils, cough, and retinitis. Chemical analysis reveals the presence of compounds like gallic acid and luteolin, which exhibit antioxidant and neuroprotective effects, emphasizing the therapeutic significance of this plant.

Bhuikafal (Fragaria nubicola)

Alpine Strawberry, known as Bhuikafal locally, is recognized for its healing properties, with fruit paste applied to treat skin diseases and wounds. Its juice is beneficial for inflammation of the nerves and lungs, while root juice is taken to alleviate fever. Chemical constituents such as ellagic acid contribute to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, highlighting its therapeutic potential in traditional medicine.

Ban haldi, (Curcuma angustifolia )

Curcuma angustifolia Roxb., commonly known as Sathi or Kachur, holds a revered position in traditional medicine. Rhizome paste from this plant is widely utilized externally for paralysis and applied to bruises, pains, and injuries, exhibiting its potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It finds application in treating skin diseases and urinary complaints, with fresh tuber juice serving as an antiparasitic agent and aiding in skin affections. Rich in compounds like curcumin, borneol, and cineole, it possesses a diverse array of therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Additionally, its extract shows promise in managing cardiovascular issues, controlling blood pressure, and even exhibiting antimutagenic effects, making it a versatile herb in traditional medicine practices.

Aankuri phul (Evolvulus alsinoides)

Evolvulus alsinoides, known locally as Aankuri phul, is esteemed for its memory-enhancing properties, with decoctions of the plant commonly consumed for this purpose. Its versatility extends to treating skin conditions, as the ash of the plant is applied to boils and pimples, while the plant paste serves as a remedy for scorpion stings, burns, and scabies. Rich in compounds like betaine and linoleic acid, it exhibits analgesic and CNS depressant properties, along with being an effective anthelmintic agent and displaying wound healing and antibacterial properties, making it a valuable asset in traditional medicinal practices.

Odaal Tree (Sterculia villosa Roxb.)

Sterculia, also known as Odaal tree in local parlance, holds medicinal significance particularly in its stem bark which is revered for its astringent properties. In culinary practices, the bark is utilized for cooking breads. The white exudates from the tree find application in treating throat infections, while root infusions serve as food adjuncts. Moreover, extracts from the plant have been harnessed for managing skin diseases, showcasing its versatile therapeutic potential.

Ghangaru (Pyracantha crenulata )

Known locally as Ghangaru, Pyracantha crenulata's fruits are consumed for alleviating dysentery, with its fruit powder recognized for its efficacy against blood dysentery. Rich in Pyracrenic acid, sorbitol, and tannins, the plant exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, thereby offering relief from various inflammatory conditions.

Jaringo (Phytolacca acinosa)

Jaringo, or commonly termed as Pokeberry, has its vegetable form consumed for body ache, while its narcotic and purgative properties make it notable in traditional medicine. Packed with compounds like Acinosolic acid, jailigonic acid, and lectins, the plant extract showcases potential in skin whitening and demonstrates anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and anti-viral effects.

Kukurdaina (Smilax aspera.)

Chopchini, also known as Rough birdweed, holds significance in traditional medicine with its root decoction being utilized for venereal diseases and scabies treatment. Rich in compounds such as asparagenin and rutinoside, the plant exhibits diverse medicinal properties including the treatment of dropsy and gout, and cancer inhibition.

Timila (Ficus auriculata)

Eve's Apron, or Timila in local parlance, showcases medicinal efficacy particularly in its stem juice against diarrhea and dysentery. The bark juice and roasted figs find application in similar gastrointestinal ailments. Moreover, its composition of β-sitosterol and other compounds suggests potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities.

Dudhi Jhar (Euphorbia hirta Linn.)

Known as Snake weed or Asthma weed, Dudhi Jhar finds application in traditional medicine for treating cuts, asthma, and diarrhea. Rich in galloylquinic acid, Phorbol acid, and quercetin, it exhibits broncho-dilation and expectorant properties, making it valuable in respiratory disorders and wound healing.

Bhutkes (Jurinea dolomiea Bioss.)

Bhutkes, also termed as KU 07266, finds utilization in traditional medicine for stomachache and diarrhea. The plant's root decoction exhibits respiratory stimulation and moderate hypotensive effects, showcasing its potential in treating gastrointestinal and respiratory ailments.

Gurjo (Tinospora sinensis )

Gurjo, also known as Heart-leaved Moonseed, holds medicinal significance in its stem juice for various ailments including dysentery, diabetes, and urinary disorders. Rich in compounds such as berberine and magnoflorine, the plant extract exhibits antipyretic, antidiabetic, and immunostimulant properties, offering a holistic approach to health.

Bhojpatra ( (Betula utilis)

Bhuj Pat, commonly known as Himalayan Birch, showcases medicinal efficacy in its bark decoction for sore throat and bacterial infections. Rich in betulinic acid and other compounds, the bark extract exhibits antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it valuable in wound healing and respiratory ailments.

Karu (Aesculus indica )

Panger, also referred to as Horse Chesnut, finds application in traditional medicine particularly in its seed oil for treating skin diseases and joint pains. Rich in aescin and other compounds, the plant exhibits anti-inflammatory and cardio-stimulant properties, offering relief from various inflammatory conditions and cardiovascular complaints.

Gore (Daphne bholua)

Gore, commonly known as Nepali paper plant, holds medicinal significance in its seeds for treating stomachache and as an anthelmintic. Rich in compounds like daphnetin and luteolin, the plant showcases potential in treating intestinal disorders and fever, making it a valuable asset in traditional medicine practices.

CHAMPA (MICHELIA CHAMPACA)

CHHATIWAN (ALSTONIA SCHOLARIS)

CHIRAITO (SWERTIA ALATA)

CHIRAITO (SWERTIA ANGUSTIFOLIA)

CHIRAITO (Swertia bimaculata )

CHIRAITO (Swertia multicaulis)

CHITU (PLUMBAOO ZEYLANICA)

CHUTRO (BERBERIS ARISTATA)

CHUTRO (BERBERIS ASIATICA)

CHYURI (AESANDRA BUTYRACEA)

DATIWAN (ACHYRANTHES BIDENTATA )

DATIWAN (ACHYRANTHES ASPERA)