Abstract

Ethnopharmacological Relevence
Thathanaickenpatti (N), although located in Palani region, lies in the rain shadow region and thus has sparse rainfall and less vegetation. Yet, with neither a medical shop nor a practicing MBBS doctor, the vegetation supports the medical needs of the inhabitants. However, in the last decade, industrialization is gradually pervading in the region and there is a need to document the ethno-pharmacological data of the region. Evergreen and deciduous forests have always been the interest for ethnopharmacological research and steppes have received little attention. Hence, the study was conducted to understand the medicinal plants of semi-arid region.
Methodology
The traditional uses of medicinal plants in the village were studied using unstructured interviews of 2 traditional healers during October and November 2020. The data was documented and assessed for the scientific validation as per current parameters using indexed journals.
Results
28 medicinal plants belonging to 19 families were found. Euphorbiaceae and Fabaceae being more abundant in terms of plant population and leaves were most commonly used. Musculo-skeletal aches were most common ailments.
Conclusion
Further research is needed for Senna auriculata in hair growth, Euphorbia hirta in leucorrhea, Euphorbia antiquora in anemia, Kalanchoe pinnata in female infertility, Paederia foetida in hair growth and Indigofera tinctoria in snake bite. There is also a need to conserve medicinal plant population of the region owing to growing industrialization and emergence of quarrying.

Key words: Conservation; Jaangala; Palani; Thorns; Semi-arid Vegetation