Traditional Medicinal Plants and their Role in Modern Healthcare: Perspectives from Tripura

Abstract

Abstract

Traditional medicinal plants have long served as the foundation of primary healthcare systems among indigenous communities worldwide, particularly in biodiversity-rich regions where access to modern medicinal facility is often limited. Tripura, a northeastern state of India, is endowed with diverse flora and a rich repository of ethnomedicinal knowledge preserved by tribal communities such as the Tripuri, Reang (Bru), Jamatia, Halam, Chakma and Mog. These communities have traditionally relied on medicinal plants to treat a wide range of ailments, including fever, gastrointestinal disorders and skin diseases. This article examines the role of traditional medicinal plants in modern healthcare from the perspective of Tripura, emphasizing their therapeutic significance, cultural values and potential contribution to sustainable healthcare systems. The study adopts a qualitative approach based on extensive review of scholarly literature, ethnobotanical studies and publications, simultaneously interacting with the local Plants medicinal providers within the reachable parameters. However, the modern healthcare potential of Tripura?s traditional medicine faces dual challenges. Furthermore, the rapid erosion of oral indigenous knowledge is a thinkable subject to ponder upon. Synthesizing Tripura rich tribal heritage with rigorous biochemical validation can creates a robust framework for developing safer, more affordable and culturally inclusive modern pharmaceuticals in alignment with the Traditional Medicinal Plants and Their Role in Modern Healthcare.