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Traditional medicinal plants in Mizoram, India

Article  in  Fitoterapia · March 2001

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 Fitoterapia 72 Ž2001. 146᎐161

Traditional medicinal plants in Mizoram,

India
Hemanta Kumar Sharma, Lalrampari Chhangte, Ashoke
Kumar DoluiU
Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dibrugarh Uni¨ ersity, Post Box No. 59,
Dibrugarh 786 004, Assam, India

Received 21 March 2000; accepted in revised from 14 September 2000

Abstract

In rural societies of Mizoram, India, traditional methods of treatment are followed in the
majority of the populace. Information on 135 plant species from 122 genera and 65 families
is presented here. 䊚 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.

Keywords: Traditional medicine; Mizoram; India

1. Introduction

The native people of Mizoram use traditional methods of treatment based on

herbal drugs. Besides herbal medicines these tribes also use animal parts as
medicines. However, information about drugs from the animal kingdom has not
been documented, since several animal species have been declared as
endangeredrprotected species.
The present study has been carried out to document these herbal drugs for
which only few literature is available w1᎐3x.

2. Study area and tribals

Mizoram, a state of north-east India is extended between latitude 21⬚ 58⬘᎐24⬚

U
Corresponding author.

0367-326Xr01r$ - see front matter 䊚 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
PII: S 0 3 6 7 - 3 2 6 X Ž 0 0 . 0 0 2 7 8 - 1
 H.K. Sharma et al. r Fitoterapia 72 (2001) 146᎐161 147

35⬘ N and longitude 92⬚ 15⬘᎐93⬚ 29⬘ E. The total area of Mizoram is 21 087 km2 ,
the total forest area being 15 825 km2 . The altitude ranges from 500 to 2157 m.
Temperature varies from 18 to 29⬚C in summer and from 11 to 24⬚C in winter.
There is no snowfall anywhere in Mizoram, though frost is experienced in the
eastern region. Mizoram is under direct influence of monsoon, with heavy rains
from May to September and an average rainfall of 245 cm per year w1,4x.
The area of present study ŽFig. 1. includes Aizawl district. The area of the
district is 12 588 km2 . The population distribution of the state and Aizawl district is
presented in Table 1 w5x.
The Mizo people are rice eaters. Major tribes in the study area are Lakher and
Pawi. Though having their own languages, they use English for communication
with other tribes. People from other parts of the country require a permit from the

Fig. 1. The study area of Aizawl, in Mizoram, India.

148 H.K. Sharma et al. r Fitoterapia 72 (2001) 146᎐161

Table 1
Population distribution of Mizoram and Aizawl district

Populationa
Mizoram Aizawl district
Total Male Female Total Male Female

Total 689 756 358 978 330 778 478 465 248 343 230 122
Rural 371 810 194 414 177 396 218 744 114 630 104 114
Urban 317 946 164 564 153 382 259 721 133 713 126 008
a
As per 1991 census.

state government to enter Mizoram. This permit system has been introduced to
preserve the tribal cultural heritage.
In Mizoram the number of doctors and other medical staff is very low in
comparison to the total population Žthe ratio doctorsrtotal population was 1:3415
in 1994. w4x. Moreover, the topography of Mizoram is responsible for the under
developed communication system in the state. Thus, the people of the rural areas
can not avail of modern methods of treatment and they search for remedies from
nature.

3. Methodology

The ethnobotanical survey was conducted between January 1995 and June 1997.
Folklore data were collected from 57 informants, including local healers and users.
Only information obtained from at least two local healers has been reported here.
While collecting information, emphasis was given to the plants though animal parts
are also sometimes used as medicines. The scientific names were assigned with the
help of Mr R.K. Lallianthanga, Scientific Officer, Council of Science, Technology
and Environment, Mizoram and Mr J.H. Lalramnghinglova, Forest Botanist, De-
partment of Forest, Mizoram. Voucher herbarium specimens were deposited in the
Herbarium of the Department of Life Sciences, Dibrugarh University.

4. Results

In the following enumeration, the plants are arranged in alphabetical order of

their scientific names along with family Žin parentheses ., Mizo ŽM. and English ŽE.
names whenever available w1᎐3,6᎐9x, and voucher specimen number followed by
brief notes on plant parts, modes of use, dose Žquantities given in parentheses are
always intended as approximate.. More than one species used for the same purpose
or having the same local name have been designated as ‘spp’.
Abrus precatorius L. ŽPapilionaceae.; sentet ŽM.; wild liquorice ŽE.; AKDM 112.
Root juice Ž5 ml, 3᎐4 times daily. mixed with sugar is used in haemorrhoids and
 H.K. Sharma et al. r Fitoterapia 72 (2001) 146᎐161 149

related problems. Root infusion Ž20 ml, 2᎐3 times daily. is taken orally in
leucorrhoea. A mixture of equal amounts of leaf juice and sesame oil is applied
externally in rheumatism and gout. The leaf juice Ž5 ml, twice daily. mixed with
milk is taken orally as antidiabetic and to stop urination Žantidiuretic .. The
powdered seeds are sniffed to get relief from severe headache.
Acacia concina DC. ŽMimosaceae.; khangthur ŽM.; AKDM 69. The leaf infusion
Ž5᎐15 ml, 4᎐5 times daily. is taken orally in malaria. A mixture of infusion of
leaves, black peeper and tamarind is taken orally in jaundice. Decoction of the
leaves and fruits has a laxative action. The fruit decoction is used externally as hair
tonic.
Acacia pennata ŽL.. Willd. ŽMimosaceae.; khangsen ŽM.; AKDM 22. The leaf
juice mixed with milk is given orally to children in indigestion.
Acer lae¨ igatum Wall. ŽAceraceae.; thingkim ŽM.; AKDM 87. Decoction of the
leaves is used as an external application in sprains.
Achyranthes bidentata Bl. ŽAmaranthaceae .; vangvat-tur ŽM.; AKDM 153. Decoc-
tion of the leaves is given orally Ž10᎐15 ml, 3᎐4 times daily. as a diuretic. The juice
of the leaves is used externally in the treatment of leech bites.
Adhatoda ¨ asica Nees. ŽAcanthaceae .; kawldawi ŽM.; vasaka ŽE.; AKDM 146.
Decoction of the leaves and roots is taken orally Ž5᎐15 ml, 2᎐3 times daily. in the
treatment of cough, bronchitis, asthma, fever and malaria. A mixture of the juice of
the leaves of A. ¨ asica. and the juice of the leaves of Mikania micrantha H.B.K.
ŽAsteraceae . along with Shilajit w9x Ž‘Lungthi’ in Mizo language. is taken orally
Ž5᎐10 ml, 3᎐4 times daily. in the treatment of various types of cancer and
tuberculosis.
Aeschynanthus maculata Lindl. ŽGesneriaceae .; bawltehlantai ŽM.; AKDM 225.
The juice of the flower is used as throat paint in tonsillitis and throat pain.
Aga¨ e americana L. ŽAgavaceae.; saidai ŽM.; AKDM 207. Decoction of the
leaves and roots is taken orally Ž5᎐15 ml, twice daily. as a diuretic. The juice of the
leaves is used externally in scurvy.
Ageratum conyzoides L. ŽAsteraceae.; vaihlenhlo ŽM.; AKDM 136. The plant,
crushed and mixed with Lungthi, is taken orally Ž1᎐4 g, 3᎐4 times daily. in the
treatment of cholera. The leaf juice is applied on itches caused by insects or due to
hypersensitivity. The decoction of the root and the rhizome of turmeric Ž Curcuma
longa. is taken three times a day in the treatment of cancer.
Albizzia chinensis ŽOsbek.. Merr. ŽMimosaceae.; vang ŽM.; AKDM 178. The bark
infusion is used as lotion in scabies and other skin diseases. Leaves are used as fish
poison.
Alpinia officinarum Hance. ŽZingiberaceae.; aichhia or dum aidu ŽM.; AKDM
176. The juice of the rhizome is used as mouthwash for children who are unable to
speak properly. The decoction of rhizome Ž5 ml, twice daily. is given orally to stop
urination when the child urinates during sleep. The rhizome is boiled with
vegetable oil which is then applied externally in muscular spasm.
Alstonia scholaris R.Br. ŽApocynaceae.; thuamriat ŽM.; devil’s tree ŽE.; AKDM
306. The decoction of the bark Ž10 ml, 2᎐4 times daily. is given orally in malaria,
diarrhoea, heart diseases and hypertension. The decoction of root mixed with
150 H.K. Sharma et al. r Fitoterapia 72 (2001) 146᎐161

powdered fruits of Lagerstroemia speciosa ŽL.. Pers. ŽLythraceae . is given orally as

anthelmintic. Decoction of the leaves Ž5᎐15 ml, three times daily. is taken orally in
the treatment of dysentery, typhoid fever and hypertension. The gummy exudates,
mixed with sesame oil, are used as ear drops in ear pain.
Amaranthus ¨ iridis L. ŽAmaranthaceae .; zamzo ŽM.; AKDM 318. The leaf juice
is applied externally as emollient in scorpion sting and in insect bites.
Amomum subulatum Roxb. ŽZingiberaceae.; ailaidum ŽM.; AKDM 302. Decoc-
tion of the rhizome Ž5 ml, 4 times daily. is taken orally in diarrhoea, dysentery,
stomach colic, food poisoning Žbeefrpork. and jaundice. The juice of the rhizome
is used externally as antiseptic. The rhizome decoction is one of the components of
a formulation used externally in the treatment of measles.
Amorphophallus campanulatus ŽRoxb.. Bl. ŽAraceae.; telhawng ŽM.; devil’s tongue
or cobra plant ŽE.; AKDM 57. The decoction of rhizome Ž5᎐10 ml, daily. is taken
orally to reduce fat in obesity. It is also used in heart diseases.
Ananas comosus Merr. ŽBromeliaceae.; lakhuihthei ŽM.; pine apple ŽE.; AKDM
117. Decoction Ž15᎐20 ml. of the fruits and of the stalk of Colocasia esculenta ŽL..
Schott. ŽAraceae. is mixed with sugar and taken orally in bronchial asthma. The
juice of the fruit and of leaves is given orally in the treatment of convulsions and in
typhoid fever.
Andrographis paniculata Nees. ŽAcanthaceae .; hnahkhapui ŽM.; AKDM 143. The
leaf infusion Ž5᎐10 ml, 4᎐6 times daily. is taken orally in malaria and fever.
Decoction of leaf, stem, root and bark is given orally Ž5 ml, 3᎐4 times daily. as
stomachic and in stomach trouble.
Annona squamosa L. ŽAnnonaceae.; theiarbawn ŽM.; custard apple ŽE.; AKDM
139. The leaf juice Ž5᎐10 ml. is given orally as anthelmintic. The vapour of the
juice is inhaled to cure headache and dizziness. Fruits are useful in diarrhoea and
dysentery. The smoke of burning seeds is inhaled for the treatment of epilepsy. The
root juice Ž15 ml, daily. is given orally as a diuretic.
Anogeissus acuminata Wall. ŽCombretaceae.; zairum ŽM.; AKDM 111.
Decoction of bark is given orally in diarrhoea. It is also used externally in sprain
and to cure burns without leaving any scar mark. The bark juice is applied on
ulcerated skin.
Anthocephalus cadamba Miq. ŽRubiaceae.; banphar ŽM.; AKDM 73. The bark
juice is given orally as febrifuge. Decoction of the leaves is used as gargle for the
treatment of aphthae of mouth.
Aporsa spp ŽEuphorbiaceae.; chhawntual ŽM. ŽAKDM 182, 183.. Decoction of
the bark Ž5᎐15 ml, 3᎐5 times daily. is taken orally in peptic ulcer, stomach troubles
and in hypotension.
Artemisia nilagirika Clarke ŽAsteraceae.; sai ŽM.; AKDM 156. Decoction of the
leaves Ž5᎐10 ml, 3᎐4 times daily. is given orally in malaria and as anthelmintic. The
infusion of the leaves and of flowering tops is given orally in different mental and
nervous disorders. The leaf juice is used as nasal drops to stop bleeding.
Artocarpus chaplasha Roxb. ŽMoraceae.; tatkawng ŽM.; AKDM 144. The juice of
stem bark Ž5᎐10 ml, 3᎐4 times daily. is given orally in diarrhoea.
 H.K. Sharma et al. r Fitoterapia 72 (2001) 146᎐161 151

Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam. ŽMoraceae.; lamkhuang ŽM.; jack fruit ŽE.; AKDM
326. The latex is applied externally to cure boils.
Artocarpus lakoocha Roxb. ŽMoraceae.; theitat ŽM.; AKDM 321. The powder of
the stem bark is applied on wounds. Infusion of the bark is used externally to treat
pimples and cracked skin.
Asparagus recemosus Willd. ŽLiliaceae .; arkebawk ŽM.; AKDM 63. The juice of
rhizome Ž5 ml, twice daily. mixed with milk is given orally to remove kidney stones.
The juice of the rhizome Ž5᎐10 ml. mixed with honey is given orally in anaemia and
in the treatment of uterine disorders.
Bauhinia purpurea L. ŽCaesalpiniaceae .; vaube ŽM.; camel’s foot tree ŽE.; AKDM
216. Decoction of the bark is used externally as astringent and internally in
diarrhoea.
Begonia inflata Clarke ŽBegoniaceae.; sekhupthur ŽM.; AKDM 219. Decoction of
the plant Ž10 ml, twice daily. is given orally in dysentery and for the treatment of
haemorrhoids. Decoction of rhizome Ž5᎐10 ml, 2᎐3 times daily. is given orally in
malaria. The flower is used as fish poison.
Benincasa hispida ŽThumb.. Cogn. ŽCucurbitaceae .; maipawl ŽM.; ash gourd ŽE.;
AKDM 93. The fruit juice Ž10᎐15 ml, 3᎐5 times daily. is taken orally in diarrhoea,
dysentery, cholera, food poisoning and diabetes. It is also given orally in epilepsy
and other nervous disorders. Infusion of the root Ž5 ml, 3᎐4 times daily. is given
orally in asthma. The juice of the flower is given orally in cholera. The seeds are
taken orally as anthelmintic.
Bergenia ligulata ŽWall.. Engl. ŽSaxifragaceae.; pandamdawi or kham-damdawi
ŽM.; AKDM 103. Decoction of the root Ž5᎐10 ml, 3᎐5 times daily. is given orally in
diarrhoea and in pulmonary infections. The leaf juice is applied on boils. It is also
taken orally to dissolve kidney stones.
Bischofia ja¨ anica Bl. ŽEuphorbiaceae.; khuangthli ŽM.; AKDM 113. The leaf
juice is applied locally in the treatment of wounds, sore throat and tonsillitis.
Blumea balsamifera DC. ŽAsteraceae.; buarthau ŽM.; dog bush ŽE.; AKDM 204.
Decoction of the leaves Ž10 ml, 3᎐4 times daily. is given orally in asthma and
cough. It is also given orally as a diuretic and externally during bath to reduce
oedema. The exudate is used in tooth decay. Decoction of the stem and root Ž5 ml,
2᎐3 times daily. is given orally in common colds. The plant is also used as fish
poison.
Bombax ceiba L. ŽBombacaceae.; pang ŽM.; AKDM 173. Decoction of the leaves
and of the bark of Mangifera indica L. ŽAnacardiaceae. Ž5 ml, 2᎐3 times daily. is
given orally in diarrhoea.
Butea frondosa Koen. ex. Roxb. ŽPapilionaceae.; fartuah or tuahpui ŽM.; flame of
forest ŽE.; AKDM 195. Decoction of the bark Ž5᎐10 ml, 2᎐3 times daily. is taken
orally in typhoid fever and hypertension. The powdered seed mixed with lime water
is used externally in ringworm and other skin diseases. The leaves Ž4᎐5. are eaten
in anaemia. Overnight infusion of flower mixed with sugar Ž5᎐10 ml, 3᎐4 times
daily. is given orally in urinary disorders like haematuria. This infusion is also used
externally to stop nasal bleeding.
152 H.K. Sharma et al. r Fitoterapia 72 (2001) 146᎐161

Callicarpa arborea Roxb. ŽVerbenaceae .; hnahkiah ŽM.; AKDM 243. The bark
juice is applied on cuts and wounds as haemostatic. Decoction of the bark or of the
young leaves is taken orally in abdominal colic.
Canarium resiniferum Brace. ŽBurseraceae .; berawthing ŽM.; AKDM 297. Decoc-
tion of the fruit and bark Ž10 ml. is given orally in abdominal colic.
Capsicum frutescens L. ŽSolanaceae.; anhling ŽM.; chilli ŽE.; AKDM 129. Decoc-
tion of the leaves, fruits and stem Ž10᎐15 ml, 3᎐4 times daily. is given orally as a
diuretic and also to remove kidney stones. The leaf juice is used as ear drops to
remove water-leech.
Carica papaya L. ŽCaricaceae .; thingfanghma ŽM.; papaw ŽE.; AKDM 316. The
latex is applied in tooth decay as an analgesic. The ripe fruit is taken orally in
diarrhoea. Decoction of unripe fruit is given orally in jaundice. Seeds are taken
orally as anthelmintics.
Cassia fistula L. ŽCaesalpiniaceae .; makhazang or makpazangkang ŽM.; pudding
pipe tree ŽE.; AKDM 403. The leaf juice is used externally in herpes. The leaf juice
along with lime juice is used externally in the treatment of leprosy and other skin
diseases. The juice of the ripe fruit is applied over the navel in case of urinary
retention. The juice is also given orally in flatulence.
Chickrassia tabularis Andr. Juss. ŽMeliaceae.; zawngtei ŽM.; AKDM 293. Decoc-
tion of the peel of the fruit and of the bark Ž10 ml, 3 times daily. is given orally in
hyperacidity. The juice of the fruit peel Ž5᎐10 ml, 2᎐3 times daily. is given orally in
diarrhoea and fever.
Cinnamomum glanduliferum Meissn. ŽLauraceae .; khianzo ŽM.; AKDM 97. The
stem bark is crushed and the juice Ž5 ml, 3 times daily. is given orally in cough,
bronchitis and pneumonia. The juice of fresh young leaves is also given orally for
the same purposes.
Cirsium chinensis Gard. et Champ. ŽAsteraceae.; lenhling ŽM.; AKDM 267. The
root juice is used externally as an antiseptic in case of injury by barbed wire. It is
also used externally in ulcerations and abscesses. The root decoction Ž10 ml, 2᎐3
times daily. is given orally in flatulence.
Clerodendrum colebrookianum Walp. ŽVerbenaceae .; phuihnum ŽM.; AKDM 123.
Decoction of the leaves Ž4᎐5 leaves, 2᎐3 times daily. is given orally in the
treatment of hypertension and also in diabetes. The leaf juice Ž5 ml, twice daily. is
given orally for the treatment of colics in infants.
Clerodendrum infortunatum L. ŽVerbenaceae .; phuihnam-chhia ŽM.; AKDM 168.
Decoction of the root is used externally in scabies. Decoction of the leaves is used
topically as an antidandruff agent. The leaf and root juice is applied externally in
some skin diseases and tumours.
Coccinia indica W. et. A. ŽCucurbitaceae .; arakhaum or nau-awimu ŽM.; wild
snake gourd ŽE.; AKDM 334. Decoction of the leaves, fruits and stem Ž5᎐10 ml, 3
times daily. is given orally in cough. The leaves, in form of curry or as decoction,
are taken orally in diabetes. The leaf juice is applied externally for the treatment of
herpes. The fruit is eaten as galactogogue and also in cough and respiratory tract
infection.
 H.K. Sharma et al. r Fitoterapia 72 (2001) 146᎐161 153

Colocasia esculenta ŽLinn.. Schott. ŽAraceae.; dawl or bal ŽM.; taro ŽE.; AKDM
175. The exudate and the juice of the stalk is applied on bee-sting, wounds and
cuts. Decoction of the rhizome Ž10᎐15 ml, 3 times daily. is given orally in diabetes.
Cordia wallichii G.Don. ŽBoraginaceae.; muk ŽM.; AKDM 408. Decoction of the
leaves and bark Ž10᎐15 ml, 1᎐2 times. is given orally to remove retained placenta.
Cratoxylum neriifolium Kurz. ŽHypericaceae.; thing-sir ŽM.; AKDM 448. Infusion
of the leaves Ž5 ml, 2 times daily. is given orally as digestive. The gum is applied in
aphthae of the mouth.
Crotalaria juncea L. ŽPapilionaceae.; tumthang ŽM.; AKDM 83. The seed is given
orally as a blood purifier and in the treatment of impetigo, psoriasis and anaemia.
Curcuma longa L. ŽZingiberaceae.; aieng ŽM.; turmeric ŽE.; AKDM 98. The juice
of the rhizome, mixed with the juice of Mikania micrantha is taken orally twice a
day for the treatment of cancer. The rhizome is grind with crab Žorder: Decapoda;
genus: Potamon. and the decoction Ž15 ml, 3 times daily. is taken orally for the
treatment of asthma. The juice of the rhizome Ž10 ml. mixed with mustard oil Ž3᎐4
drops. is taken orally Ž3 times daily. in heart diseases. The young shoot is taken
orally Ž3 g. for the treatment of stomach colic.
Datura stramonium L. ŽSolanaceae.; tawtawrawt-par ŽM.; thorn apple ŽE.; AKDM
96. The dried leaf is smoked in case of asthmatic problem and respiratory failure.
The leaf juice Ž2 ml., mixed with milk Ž30 ml. is given orally in the treatment of
venereal diseases. The crushed seed is mixed with common salt solution, and after
7 days, the mixture is given orally in the treatment of headache, pre-menstrual
tension and pain. The juice of the root is used topically in dog bites.
Dendrocalamus hamiltonii Nees. ŽPoaceae.; phulrua ŽM.; AKDM 119. The fruit
is taken orally in the treatment of hypotension.
Dichroa febrifuga Lour. ŽSaxifragaceae.; khawsik-damdawi ŽM.; AKDM 108.
Decoction of the root Ž5᎐15 ml, 2᎐5 times daily. is taken orally in the treatment of
fever, malaria and as emetic.
Dillenia indica L. ŽDilleniaceae .; kawrthingdeng ŽM.; AKDM 213. The juices of
leaves, bark and fruits are mixed and given orally Ž5᎐15 ml, 2᎐5 times daily. in the
treatment of cancer and diarrhoea.
Dillenia pentagyna Roxb. ŽDilleniaceae .; kaihzawl ŽM.; AKDM 246. Decoction of
the leaves Ž10 ml, 2᎐3 times daily. is taken orally for the treatment of chest pain.
Decoction of the bark Ž20 ml, 3᎐5 times daily. is given orally to treat cancer. The
leaf juice is applied externally to cure wounds.
Dinochloa compactiflora Kurtz. ŽPoaceae.; sairil ŽM.; AKDM 49. The stem juice
Ž5 ml, 2᎐3 times daily. is given orally in influenza and applied topically for hair
growth.
Dioscorea alata L. ŽDioscoreaceae.; rambachim ŽM.; yam ŽE.; AKDM 99. Tuber
is given orally in haemorrhoids and syphilis.
Dioscorea bulbifera L. ŽDioscoreaceae.; ram-bahra ŽM.; yam ŽE.; AKDM 427.
Decoction of the tuber is given orally as anthelmintic. The juice of tuber Ž5᎐15 ml,
2᎐4 times daily. is taken orally in haemorrhoids, leprosy and gonorrhoea.
Dolichos lablab L. ŽPapillionaceae .; bepui ŽM.; country bean ŽE.; AKDM 433.
154 H.K. Sharma et al. r Fitoterapia 72 (2001) 146᎐161

The leaf juice Ž5᎐10 ml. is taken orally in hypersensitivity reactions due to
ingestion of pork.
Dregea ¨ olubilis Benth. ex. Hook. f. ŽAsclepiadaceae.; ankha-pui ŽM.; AKDM
445. The leaf is warmed on a fire and placed over ulcers to hasten the removal of
pus. Decoction of leaves Ž5᎐10 ml, 2᎐3 times daily. is given orally in stomach
trouble. The bark juice is used externally in herpes. The root juice is applied
topically at the site of the dog bite. The leaves Ž7r8. are boiled with dove Ža bird;
order: Columbiformes; genus: Streptopelia. and the extract Žbroth. is drunk Ž20 ml,
2᎐3 times daily for 3᎐5 days. to remove kidney stones and as a diuretic.
Dysoxylum procerum Hiern. ŽMeliaceae.; thingthu-pui ŽM.; AKDM 202. Decoc-
tion of the leaves Ž10 ml, 3᎐5 times daily. is given orally in dysentery.
Elaeagnus caudata Schlecht ex. Momiyama ŽElaeagnaceae .; sarzuk-pui ŽM.;
AKDM 184. The juice of the root Ž5 ml, 3 times daily. is given orally in rheumatic
pain.
Elaeagnus latifolia L. ŽElaeagnaceae .; sarzuk ŽM.; AKDM 188. The root juice
Ž5᎐10 ml, 1᎐2 times daily. is given orally to remove retained placenta. Decoction of
the root Ž10᎐15 ml, 3 times daily. is taken orally in the treatment of threatened
abortion.
Embelia nagushia D. Don. ŽMyrsinaceae .: thing ŽM.; AKDM 218. Decoction of
the leaves is used externally for taking a bath in chicken pox and small pox.
Eryngium foetidum L. ŽApiaceae.; bahkhawr ŽM.; AKDM 253. The leaf juice Ž10
ml. is taken orally to stop convulsions during high fever. It is also used internally as
stomachic.
Eugenia jambolana Lam. ŽMyrtaceae.; lenhmui ŽM.; AKDM 268. The seed juice
is applied externally on sores and ulcers. Powdered seeds Ž2᎐3 g. mixed with sugar
are given orally Ž2᎐3 times daily. in dysentery. The juice of leaves is given orally as
antidote in opium poisoning and in centipede bite. Infusion of fruit or mixture of
powdered bark and fruit is given orally in diabetes. The juice of ripe fruits is stored
for 3 days and then is given orally for gastric problems. The bark juice Ž5᎐15 ml,
2᎐4 times daily. is given orally for the treatment of women with a history of
repeated abortion.
Eulophia nuda Lindl. ŽOrchidaceae.; nauban ŽM.; AKDM 449. The juice of the
tuber Ž5᎐10 ml, 3᎐4 times daily. is taken orally in the treatment of scrofula.
Eupatorium odoratum L. ŽAsteraceae.; tlangsam or pholeng ŽM.; AKDM 174.
The leaf juice is used topically as an antiseptic. The juice is also applied externally
to remove pinworm from the anus.
Ficus hispida L. ŽMoraceae.; thei-pui ŽM.; AKDM 441. Decoction of the root Ž10
ml, 3᎐5 times daily. is given orally in dysentery.
Ficus religiosa L. ŽMoraceae.; hmawng or bung ŽM.; bo-tree ŽE.; AKDM 214.
Decoction of the bark is given orally in cough and in various skin diseases. The
bark is burnt to ashes and used externally in the treatment of sores in venereal
diseases. Decoction of the bark is used as a mouthwash for the treatment of
toothache and tooth decay. The fruit juice Ž5 ml, 3᎐5 times daily. is given orally in
asthma and other respiratory troubles. Decoction of the root Ž5᎐10 ml, 3᎐4 times
daily. mixed with a little salt is given orally in asthma. The root juice Ž5᎐10 ml, 2᎐4
 H.K. Sharma et al. r Fitoterapia 72 (2001) 146᎐161 155

times daily. is given orally in leprosy. The root juice mixed with ginger is applied
externally in elephantiasis.
Gelsemium elegans Gardner et. Champ. ŽLoganiaceae.; hanamtur ŽM.; AKDM
436. The root juice is applied topically in ringworm and in cases of tiger bites. Root
is given orally in peptic ulcer. The leaf juice is applied as antiseptic on cuts and
wounds.
Gmelina arborea L. ŽVerbenaceae .; thalmaung ŽM.; AKDM 105. The leaf juice
Ž5᎐10 ml, 2᎐3 times daily. is given orally in coughs, gonorrhoea and ulcers. It is
also used topically in scorpion stings and snakebites. The roasted fruit is crushed
and the juice is applied externally on the itching skin.
Gynura conyza Cass. ŽAsteraceae.; buar-ze ŽM.; AKDM 254. The leaf juice is
used externally in wounds, ulcers, scabies, and as antidandruff agent. Decoction of
the leaves Ž5᎐15 ml, 2᎐5 times daily. is given orally in asthma, peptic ulcer and
jaundice. It is also given orally in tuberculosis and some types of cancer.
Helicia excelsa Bl. ŽProteaceae .; sialhma ŽM.; AKDM 323. Decoction of leaves
Ž10 ml, 1᎐2 times daily. is given orally in stomach pain. A necklace is prepared with
seeds and worn around the neck as an effective remedy in convulsions.
Helicia robusta Hk.f. et. T. ŽProteaceae .; pasaltakaza ŽM.; AKDM 374. Decoction
of the rhizome is used topically in scabies. Decoction of the root bark Ž15 ml, 1᎐2
times. is given orally to remove retained placenta. It is also given orally in uterine
disorders, peptic ulcer and diabetes.
Hibiscus surattensis L. ŽMalavaceae.; leitha ŽM.; AKDM 426. Decoction of the
stem and leaves is used as a lotion in the treatment of irritation of the penis,
venereal sores and ureteritis.
Hodgsonia heteroclita ŽRoxb.. Hk.f. et. T. ŽCucurbitaceae .; Khaum ŽM.; AKDM
79. Decoction of the seed is taken orally in uterine disorders.
Hydrocotyle asiatica L. ŽApiaceae.; lambak or darbengbur ŽM.; Indian pennywort
ŽE.; AKDM 304. The leaf juice Ž2᎐5 ml, 2 times daily. is given orally in diarrhoea.
The juice is applied externally on the swollen parts of the body. Decoction of the
root Ž10᎐15 ml. is mixed with Lungthi and taken orally Ž2᎐5 times daily. in
beriberi, dysentery and peptic ulcers. Decoction of the dried leaves Ž5᎐15 ml, 3᎐4
times daily. is given orally in the treatment of hypertension. The dried powdered
leaf is mixed with mustard oil and applied as an ointment on the chest in coughs.
The leaf juice Ž5᎐10 ml. mixed with honey or sugar is given orally as a blood
purifier and as a sedative.
Impatiens chinensis L. ŽBalsaminaceae .; haeirlo ŽM.; AKDM 104. The plant juice
is used externally in burns and internally Ž10 ml, 3᎐4 times daily. in gonorrhoea.
Jatropha curcas L. ŽEuphorbiaceae.; kang-damdawi ŽM.; AKDM 293. The stem
juice is used externally in the treatment of burns.
Kyllinga monocephala Rottb. ŽCyperaceae.; artelubawk ŽM.; AKDM 324. The
root juice is taken orally as an antidote for food-poisoning. It is also given orally Ž5
ml, 2᎐3 times daily. in fever.
Lagerstroemia speciosa ŽL.. Pers. ŽLythraceae .; chawn-pui or thlado ŽM.; AKDM
193. Decoction of the bark Ž2᎐10 ml, 3᎐5 times daily. is taken orally in diarrhoea
and dysentery. Decoction of the root Ž5 ml, 2᎐4 times daily. is given orally in
156 H.K. Sharma et al. r Fitoterapia 72 (2001) 146᎐161

jaundice. It is also used externally as astringent and internally as stimulant and

febrifuge. The fruits are chewed in the treatment of aphthae of mouth. The seed
having narcotic properties is smoked along with tobacco.
Lantana camara L. ŽVerbenaceae .; shilong flangsam ŽM.; AKDM 154. Decoction
of the whole plant is used externally as antitetanus agent. It is also given orally Ž10
ml, 2᎐5 times daily. in rheumatism and malaria.
Laportea crenulata Gaud. ŽUrticaceae .; thak-pui ŽM.; devil or fever nettle ŽE.;
AKDM 149. Decoction of the root Ž5᎐15 ml, twice daily. is taken orally in jaundice,
diarrhoea and dysentery. When a person comes in contact with the leaf, the leaf
produces a burning sensation which can be cured by the application of root juice.
Melastoma malabathricum L. ŽMelastomataceae .; builukhampa ŽM.; AKDM 71.
Decoction of the leaf Ž5᎐15 ml, 3᎐4 times daily. or its juice is taken orally in the
treatment of diarrhoea and dysentery.
Melocalamus compactiflorus Benth. ŽPoaceae.; sairil ŽM.; AKDM 48. The juice of
the stem Ž5 ml, 2 times daily. is given orally in influenza. It is also applied topically
to stimulate hair growth.
Michelia champaca L. ŽMagnoliaceae.; ngiau ŽM.; golden or yellow champa ŽE.;
AKDM 241. Decoction of the flower Ž1᎐3 flowers, twice daily. is taken orally in the
treatment of peptic ulcers and kidney disorders. Infusion of leaves is filtered and
applied to eyes to improve vision. The leaf juice Ž5 ml, 1᎐2 times. mixed with honey
is taken orally as anthelmintic. The fruit peel and the bark are ground together and
applied topically in the treatment of leprosy. The powdered bark Ž2 g. mixed with
honey is taken orally Ž3 times daily. in cough.
Mikania micrantha H.B.K. ŽAsteraceae.; japan-hlo ŽM.; AKDM 205. The leaf
juice is used externally as antiseptic in cuts and wounds. It is also given orally Ž5᎐10
ml, 2᎐4 times daily. in the treatment of diarrhoea, dysentery, fever and malaria.
Leaf juice Ž5᎐10 ml. mixed with Lungthi is given orally Ž3᎐6 times daily. in the
treatment of cancer.
Mimosa pudica L. ŽMimosaceae.; hlonuar ŽM.; sensitive plant or touch me-not
plant ŽE.; AKDM 96. The leaf juice Ž5᎐10 drops, twice daily. is taken orally in the
treatment of haemorrhoids. The leaf is crushed and placed over the navel of the
child to stop urination during sleep. The root juice is applied topically to draw out
the purulent matter from boils and ulcers. Root decoction Ž5 ml, 4 times daily. is
taken orally to disintegrate kidney stones and excrete them through urine.
Mirabilis jalapa L. ŽNyctaginaceae.; artukhuan ŽM.; four o’clock plant or marvel
of Peru ŽE.; AKDM 422. The juice of the rhizome is taken orally Ž5᎐10 ml, 1᎐2
times. as an aphrodisiac. The rhizome, ginger and black pepper are ground
together and the juice is taken orally Ž10 ml, 4 times daily. in the treatment of
sexually transmitted diseases. The leaf juice is applied topically on itches. Infusion
of the leaves is applied topically to reduce swelling due to bone fracture or twisting.
Decoction of the entire plant is given orally Ž10᎐15 ml, 2᎐3 times daily. in the
treatment of kidney and urinary infection. It is also given orally as a diuretic.
Momordica charantia L. ŽCucurbitaceae .; changkha ŽM.; bitter gourd ŽE.; AKDM
209. The leaf juice Ž10᎐15 ml. along with the fruits of Terminalia chebula Retz.
ŽCombretaceae. is taken orally Ž3᎐6 times daily. in jaundice. Decoction of the
 H.K. Sharma et al. r Fitoterapia 72 (2001) 146᎐161 157

leaves Ž5᎐10 ml, 3᎐4 times daily. with sugar is taken orally in hypertension. The
leaf juice is used as nasal drops. The leaf juice is used both externally and
internally in dog bites. The juice of the young fresh fruits is warmed and applied
externally in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis The fruit juice Ž10 ml. mixed
with honey is given orally Ž2᎐5 times daily. in the treatment of ascites.
Musa superba Roxb. ŽMusaceae.; tumbu or changel ŽM.; AKDM 191. The
exudate Ž2᎐5 ml. is given orally Ž2᎐3 times daily. in the treatment of chilling
sensation, convulsion and cough. Decoction of the fruit is taken orally Ž20᎐30 ml,
3᎐4 times daily. in fever and typhoid fever. The stem juice is applied at the site of
snake bites and bee stings. It is also applied on burnt skin. The latex of the
inflorescence is taken orally in convulsions, pneumonia and cholera. The stem juice
Ž5 ml, 3᎐5 times daily. is taken orally in diarrhoea, dysentery, and jaundice.
Mussaenda macrophylla Wall. ŽRubiaceae.; vakep ŽM.; AKDM 70. Decoction of
the leaves Ž10᎐15 ml, 2᎐3 times daily. and betel-nut is taken orally in coughs. Root
decoction Ž5᎐10 ml, 3 times daily. is also used for the same purpose. The juice of
either leaves or roots is applied topically in chronic or obstinate ulcer. It is applied
topically at the site of snake bites.
Myrica esculenta Buch. Ham. ex. D. Don. ŽMyricaceae.; keifang ŽM.; AKDM 311.
The bark juice is used externally as astringent and antiseptic, and internally as
carminative. It is also given orally Ž5᎐10 ml, 3᎐5 times daily. in fever, asthma and
cough. The powdered bark is sniffed in catarrh with headache. It is also taken
orally in the treatment of cholera.
Oriza sati¨ a L. ŽPoaceae.; buh or buh-pawl ŽM.; paddy ŽE.; AKDM 145. Decoc-
tion of the chopped rice-straw Ž30᎐40 ml, 3᎐5 times daily. is given orally to remove
kidney and gallbladder stones. It is also given orally Ž30 ml, 3 times daily. in the
treatment of urinary disorders.
Orthosiphon aristatus Bl. ŽLamiaceae.; zunthlum-kung ŽM.; AKDM 259. The leaf
decoction Ž10᎐15 ml, 2᎐3 times daily. is taken orally to remove kidney stones and
also in the treatment of diabetes.
Osbeckia spp ŽMelastomaceae.; builukham ŽM.; AKDM 307, 308. Decoction of
the root Ž10᎐30 ml, 2᎐5 times daily. is taken orally in stomach troubles, pulmonary
diseases and to remove kidney stones. Decoction of the rhizome Ž10 ml, twice daily.
is given orally as a diuretic.
Oxyspora paniculata D.C. ŽMelastomataceae .; khampa ŽM.; AKDM 130. Decoc-
tion of the root and rhizome Ž10 ml, twice daily. is taken orally in heart diseases. It
is also given orally in kidney diseases and stomach troubles. The vapour of the
decoction is inhaled for haemostasis during nasal bleeding.
Paederia foetida L. ŽRubiaceae.; vawih-uih-hrui ŽM.; AKDM 134. The leaf juice
is applied topically in toothache and gum ulcers. It is rubbed externally and taken
orally Ž5᎐10 ml, 2᎐5 times daily. in rheumatism. A decoction of the young shoot is
taken orally Ž10᎐20 ml, 2᎐6 times daily. in asthma and diarrhoea.
Passiflora nepalensis Wall. ŽPassifloraceae .; nau-awimu ŽM.; AKDM 127. Root
decoction Ž10᎐30 ml, 2᎐3 times daily. is taken orally in fever and malaria. The root
juice Ž5᎐10 ml, 2 times daily. is given orally as a purgative.
158 H.K. Sharma et al. r Fitoterapia 72 (2001) 146᎐161

Passiflora spp ŽPassifloraceae .; sapthei ŽM.; passion flower ŽE.; AKDM 236, 237.
The inner part of the fruit is taken orally in jaundice.
Physalis minima L. ŽSolanaceae.; kelasairawphit ŽM.; AKDM 437. The juice of
the stem, leaves and fruit is taken orally Ž10᎐30 ml, 2᎐5 times daily. in the
treatment of diarrhoea and gonorrhoea. The leaf is boiled with mustard oil and the
oil is instilled to get relief from ear pain.
Piper longum L. ŽPiperaceae.; voko-hrui ŽM.; dried catkins ŽE.; AKDM 198.
Infusion of the dried fruit is taken orally Ž5᎐10 ml, 3᎐4 times daily. in cough. The
same infusion mixed with honey is taken orally in anaemia. It is also used internally
as an anthelmintic. Decoction of the fruit with ginger and sugar is given orally
Ž10᎐20 ml, 3᎐4 times daily. to get relief from malaria and fever. The fruit juice is
also used as a gargle in toothache. The root decoction Ž5᎐20 ml, 2᎐5 times daily. is
taken orally in the treatment of back pain and paralytic conditions.
Pithecolobium angulatum Benth. ŽMimosaceae.; ardah-pui ŽM.; AKDM 203. The
leaf is chewed to get relief from toothache and gum boils.
Pithecolobium bigeminum Benth. ŽMimosaceae.; ardah ŽM.; AKDM 132. The
crushed leaf is kept in the mouth for the treatment of gum swelling, toothache and
tooth decay. Decoction of leaves is used externally in leprosy and also for hair
growth.
Plantago major L. ŽPlantaginaceae .; kelbe-an ŽM.; cart track plant ŽE.; AKDM
94. The leaf juice is used externally in bee stings and instilled in ear pain. The leaf
decoction is used externally in sores and ulcers to hasten the formation of new
skin. It is used as gargle in toothache, gum boils and aphthae. The leaf is boiled
and the vapour is inhaled to reduce leucorrhoea. It is also taken orally at bed time
in the treatment of haemorrhoids. Decoction of the leaves Ž20᎐30 ml. with sugar is
taken orally Ž10᎐15 days. in kidney and urinary problems. Decoction of root, leaf
and stem is taken orally Ž15᎐20 ml, 3᎐5 times daily. in diabetes and tuberculosis.
Root decoction Ž20 ml. is taken three times a day in malaria.
Polygonum barbatum L. ŽPolygonaceae.; anbawng ŽM.; AKDM 369. The root
juice is used externally as astringent. Decoction of the seed Ž10 ml. is taken orally
in the treatment of abdominal colics.
Pratia begonifolia Lindl. ŽCampanulaceae.; choakathi ŽM.; AKDM 244. The leaf
juice is taken three times a day to improve vision in older people. Decoction of the
leaves is used externally in eye infections. The leaf juice Ž5᎐10 ml, three times a
day. is taken orally in peptic ulcers and dysentery. The fruit is taken orally in
tonsillitis and throat pain.
Prunus cerasoides D. Don. ŽRosaceae.; tlaizang ŽM.; AKDM 286. Decoction of
the bark Ž15᎐30 ml, 2᎐3 times daily. is used in the treatment of malaria.
Pteridium aquilinum Kuhn. ŽPolypodiaceae.; katchat ŽM.; AKDM 229. Decoction
of the rhizome and fronds is taken orally at bedtime Ž3 days. in the treatment of
severe constipation and as taenicide.
Raphanus sati¨ us L. ŽBrassicaceae .; bul-uih ŽM.; radish ŽE.; AKDM 91. The root
decoction is given orally in urinary complications and haemorrhoids. The fresh leaf
juice Ž5᎐10 ml, 2᎐3 times daily. is taken orally as a diuretic and as laxative.
 H.K. Sharma et al. r Fitoterapia 72 (2001) 146᎐161 159

Rhynchotoechum ellipticum A.DC. ŽGesneraceae .; tiarrep ŽM.; AKDM 447. De-

coction of the leaves Ž10᎐30 ml, 3᎐6 times daily. is given orally in the treatment of
various types of cancer.
Sapindus mukorossi Gaertn. ŽSapindaceae.; hlingsi ŽM.; soap nut ŽE.; AKDM
233. Fruit juice is applied externally in mumps. One or two fruits are soaked in
water overnight and the water is then used as gargle in cough and tonsillitis. The
fruit is a substitute for soap.
Saraca indica L. ŽCaesalpiniaceae .; mualhawih ŽM.; AKDM 327. Infusion of the
bark is taken orally in uterine disorders and applied topically in scorpion-sting.
Schima wallichii Chois. ŽTernstroemiaceae.; khiang ŽM.; AKDM 179. The fruit
decoction is applied on wounds caused by insects like spider and scorpion. The
bark juice is used externally as an antiseptic. The leaf is used as an external
application in snake bites.
Solanum indicum L. ŽSolanaceae.; tawkte ŽM.; Indian night-shade ŽE.; AKDM
385. The fruit juice is used externally in herpes. The fruit is also applied topically
over painful sores caused by contact with Drimycarpus racemosus Hook.f.
ŽAnacardiaceae..
Solanum xanthocarpum Schrad. et. Wendl. ŽSolanaceae.; at-hlo ŽM.; AKDM 316.
The seed is crushed and the juice is applied over gum and teeth in toothache.
Spathodea stipulata Wall. ŽBignoniaceae.; zih-haw ŽM.; AKDM 146. The decoc-
tion of the stem Ž20᎐30 ml, 2᎐3 times daily. is given orally in the treatment of
black-water-fever.
Sterculia ¨ illosa Roxb. ŽSterculiaceae .; khau-pui ŽM.; AKDM 115. The bark juice
is used as throat paint in throat infection. Decoction of the bark Ž10᎐15 ml, 2᎐3
times daily. is taken orally in dysentery and cholera.
Stereospermum tetragonum DC. ŽBignoniaceae.; zihnghal ŽM.; AKDM 197. De-
coction of the leaves and flowers Ž10᎐20 ml, 2᎐3 times daily. is taken orally as an
antipyretic. The leaf juice mixed with lime water is given orally in maniacal cases.
The flower and fruit juice is applied topically in the treatment of scorpion sting.
Strobilanthes cussia Nees. ŽAcanthaceae .; mizo-thing ŽM.; AKDM 119. The leaf
juice is used externally in rat bites. It is applied externally as poultice in cough and
pain for children.
Tagetes erecta L. ŽAsteraceae .; derhken ŽM.; AKDM 288. The leaf juice is used
as eardrops in otorrhoea. It is also applied on boils and carbuncles. The juice of the
flower is used as eye drops in the treatment of ulcers of the eyes. It is given orally
Ž5 ml, 3᎐5 times daily. as a blood purifier and also in haemorrhoids.
Tamarindus indica L. ŽCaesalpiniaceae .; tengtere or chhimakelek ŽM.; tamarind
ŽE.; AKDM 274. Small portion of the seed cover is removed and placed over the
snake bitten area to absorb the venom. The decoction of old fruits Žmore than 6
months old. is taken orally Ž5 ml, twice daily. in diarrhoea.
Terminalia bellerica Roxb. ŽCombretaceae.; thingvandawt ŽM.; belleric myrobalan
ŽE.; AKDM 384. Decoction of the flower Ž10 ml, 3 times a day. is taken orally in
diarrhoea. The bark juice is used externally in leucoderma. Decoction of bark is
used as mouthwash in aphthae of mouth. The fruit juice is used as eye drops in eye
infections. The fruit juice mixed with sugarcane juice in equal proportion is taken
160 H.K. Sharma et al. r Fitoterapia 72 (2001) 146᎐161

orally Ž10᎐15 ml, 2᎐3 times daily. in the treatment of impotence. The juice of the
fruit peel mixed with honey Ž8᎐10 ml, 2᎐3 times daily. is given orally in bronchitis
and other respiratory tract infections. It is also given orally in anaemia and in
haemorrhoids. Alcoholic extract of seed Ž20᎐30 ml, 3᎐4 times daily. is given orally
as a diuretic and to remove kidney stones through urine.
Terminalia chebula Retz. ŽCombretaceae.; reraw ŽM.; chebulic myrobalan ŽE.;
AKDM 89. The dried powdered fruit mixed with coconut oil is used externally in
the treatment of burns. Infusion of dry fruit is used as eye drops in eye infections.
The fruit mixed with milk is taken orally in anaemia. The mixture of the powdered
seed and rice infusion is taken orally in the treatment of pimples. The bark
decoction Ž10᎐15 ml, three times a day. is taken orally in diarrhoea and dysentery.
The bark juice is applied topically as a blood coagulant.
Tinospora cordifolia ŽWild.. Miers. ŽMenispermaceae.; theisawntlung ŽM.; AKDM
137. The stem juice Ž5 ml, twice daily. is taken orally as antipyretic. Decoction of
the dry stem Ž5᎐10 ml, 1᎐2 times daily. is given orally as an aphrodisiac. The juice
of the leaf and stem is taken orally Ž10 ml, 2᎐7 times daily. as a diuretic and in
gonorrhoea.
Trichosanthes anguina L. ŽCucurbitaceae .; berul ŽM.; snake gourd ŽE.; AKDM
284. The plant exudate is applied around the snake bitten area to stop diffusion of
venom. The fruit is cut and the juice is placed over the area to absorb venom.
Fruits are taken orally as purgative, anthelmintic and emetic.
Uncaria lae¨ igata Wall. ŽRubiaceae.; ralsamkuai ŽM.; AKDM 84. Decoction of
the root is used as gargle in tonsillitis. The root juice is applied externally in
herpes.
Urena lobata L. ŽMalvaceae.; sehnap ŽM.; aromina fibre ŽE.; AKDM 439. The
leaves are ground with black pepper and the juice is applied externally in muscle
pain and rheumatoid arthritis. The leaves are ground, mixed with equal amounts of
sesame oil, warmed and applied externally to the swollen parts of body. Leaf
decoction Ž10 ml, three times daily. is taken orally as an antipyretic. The dry
powdered root, mixed with milk and sugar, is taken orally Ž10᎐15 ml. as an
aphrodisiac. Cold water extract of bark is given orally as stomachic and analgesic.
Viscum articulatum Burm. ŽLoranthaceae .; lengpat ŽM.; AKDM 107. Decoction
of the plant is taken orally Ž5᎐10 ml. in fever accompanied by aching limbs. The
paste of the plant is used externally in gout. The leaf decoction is used externally in
sores, wounds and ulcerated skin.
Vitex peduncularis Wall. ŽVerbenaceae .; thingkhawi-hlu ŽM.; AKDM 389. Decoc-
tion of leaf, root and bark Ž10᎐15 ml,. is taken orally in the treatment of malaria
and black-water-fever. The bark juice is applied externally in chest pain due to
coughing.

5. Discussion

The total number of plant species utilised in the surveyed region is 135 from 122
genera and 65 families. The families with the highest number of utilised medicinal
 H.K. Sharma et al. r Fitoterapia 72 (2001) 146᎐161 161

plants are Asteraceae Ž9., Mimosaceae Ž6., Verbenaceae Ž6., Solanaceae Ž5.,
Cucurbitaceae Ž5., Caesalpiniaceae Ž4., and Papilionaceae Ž4.. Most of the recipes
are prepared from wild plants. The common dosage forms include juice, decoction,
infusion, paste and powder. Sometimes a little amount of water is added to the
barkrstemrflowerrfruitrseed and then ground and filtered through cloth; the
filtrate is known as ‘juice’. Another important point is that out of 135 plants many
are commonly used as food. According to Etkin and Rose w10x the priority for
further study should be given to plants that are also used in the diet, since the
potential health impact is markedly greater for plants used in diet and medicine.
The present study shows that in Mizoram there is a great diversity of plants and
important knowledge of potential therapeutic applications of several plant species.
The recuperation and preservation of this knowledge is unquestionably of high
importance in view of the deforestation underway in Mizoram and surrounding
areas.

Acknowledgements

The authors are thankful to Dr O.P. Singh, Joint Director, Department of

Agriculture, Govt. of Mizoram; Mr R.K. Lallianthanga, Scientific Officer, Mizoram
Council of Science, Technology and Environment and Mr J. H. Lalramnghinglova,
Forest Botanist, Research and Development Circle, Mizoram for their help during
identification of plants. Thanks are also due to Mr C. Vanlalvena for the facilities
provided at the study area. All the informants of the study area are cordially
acknowledged for their valuable cooperation.

References
w1x Lallianthanga RK, Medicinal plants of Mizoram ŽA project report., Mizoram Council of Science,
Technology and Environment, Aizawl, Mizoram, 1990:2᎐21.
w2x Lalramnghinglova JH. Food plants, fruit plants and medicinal plants of Mizoram. Mizoram:
Environment and Forest Department, 1992:67᎐142.
w3x Saptawna HA. Medicinal plants and selected traditional medicines. Tahan-Kalemyo: Pu
Bawlkunga, 1990:6᎐154.
w4x Anonyous. Mizoram at a glance. Aizawl, Mizoram: Department of Economics and Statistics,
1994:1᎐13.
w5x Anonymous. The Encyclopaedic District Gazetteers of India, North-Eastern Zone. New Delhi:
Gyan Publishing House, 1998:549᎐590.
w6x Tiwari VP, Tiwari KC, Joshi P. J Res Indigenous Med. 1973;8:57.
w7x Mabberley DJ. The plant book. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1987.
w8x Hooker JD. The flora of British India, Periodical Expert Book Agency, Delhi and International
Book distributors, Dehradun, I᎐VII, 1978.
w9x Dutta AC. Botany. Calcutta: Oxford University Press, 1979:863᎐880.
w10x Etkin NL, Rose PJ. J Ethnopharmacol 1991;32:25.

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