Traditional phytotherapy among the Sherpas of Helambu, central Nepal

Abstract

The traditional phytotherapy of the Sherpas of the Helambu region, Central Nepal, has been investigated. Sixty-seven widely accepted prescriptions involving 49 plant species (one species of fungi, two species of ferns, one species of gymnosperms and forty-five species of angiosperms) are presented along with details on uses. Ethnobotanically, the Helambu Sherpas appear to be one of the least acculturated groups of people. The vast number of prescriptions available to treat ailments, from minor cuts and wounds to bone fractures, gynaecological complaints and tuberculosis, suggest ample opportunities for their critical scientific study.