Ethnoveterinary uses of Medicinal Plants by the Aboriginals of Purulia District, West Bengal, India

The westernmost district of West Bengal, Purulia is inhabited by a large number of tribals. A study on the ethnoveterinary practices of medicinal plants was carried out in this area. Through questionnaire, personal interviews and conversation, a total number of 25 plant species used by the aboriginals were enumerated. The major ethnic groups present in the studied area include Santhali, Bhumijs, Mundas, Oraon, Birhor, Mal Pahariya, Kharia and Ho. During the investigation, a well developed system of ethnoveterinary practices was found among these tribals.