Plants Associated with Human Fertility and Child Birth in Una District of Himachal Pradesh (India)

Abstract

The Shivalik ranges divide the plain and Himalayan Mountain peaks and housed many medicinal important plants. One of the densely populated parts of this region includes district Una of Himachal Pradesh which has been thoroughly explored to identify the traditional knowledge in relation to plants associated with human fertility and childbirth-related problems in modern society. Infertility may account for many cases of “unexplained” fertility problems due to one or both partners. The present study revealed that people rely on total 24 plants species within 24 genera, belonging to 19 families that are utilized for various types of human fertility problems and child birth. Out of the total 19 family reported, the family Fabaceae leading with three species, followed by Lauraceae, Poaceae, and Zingiberaceae with two species each. The recorded species represent trees (11 species), shrubs (06), herbs (05), and climbers (02). The present information indicates the use of indigenous knowledge of the local people regarding the use of plant-based medicines to boost natural fertility, helps to maintain a healthy pregnancy, and is also recommended before and after parturition for easy delivery and will tone the uterus and nourish the blood.