MEDICINAL PLANTS OF PUNJAB: A REVIEW

Abstract

Medicinal plants are a key part of Punjab's nature and culture, historically used for rural healthcare and supporting local livelihoods. This is crucial to review information on the variety, geographic distribution, traditional uses, chemical properties, and farming potential of regional ethnomedicinal flora found across the Shivalik hills and river areas—such as Phyllanthus emblica, Withania somnifera, Tinospora cordifolia, and numerous herbs and trees used for conditions ranging from digestive disorders to respiratory issues.  Furthermore, the need of the hour is to address human-induced threats to these plants and emphasizes how combining traditional knowledge with lab testing and better agricultural practices can safeguard regional biodiversity and ensure sustainable use.