Deepti Joshi1,Archana Kulhar2,Dr.Anupama Goyal3
Abstract:
The arid and semi-arid regions of Rajasthan, particularly the Shekhawati region, harbor a remarkable diversity of medicinal plants that have been integral to traditional healing practices for centuries. Despite harsh climatic conditions characterized by low rainfall, extreme temperatures, and poor soil quality, these regions support a unique assemblage of xerophytic and drought-resistant medicinal flora. This review synthesizes current knowledge on medicinal plant diversity, ethnobotanical practices, phytochemical properties, and conservation challenges in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan. The paper examines approximately 150 medicinal plant species documented in the region, their traditional therapeutic applications, the role of indigenous communities in preserving botanical knowledge, and the socio-economic importance of medicinal plants. Contemporary threats including habitat degradation, overexploitation, climate change, and erosion of traditional knowledge are critically analyzed. The review emphasizes the urgent need for sustainable conservation strategies, scientific validation of traditional remedies, and integration of indigenous knowledge with modern healthcare systems to ensure the preservation of this invaluable biocultural heritage.
