“Survey of Some Sacred and Medicinal Plants from Malegaon Tehsil of Nashik District, Maharashtra”

Abstract: Biodiversity is an important gift of nature that provides all basic requirements for human existence. Since time immemorial plants have played an important role in human existence and civilization. It has been observed that large number of plants being used for the worshiping of gods and goddesses as well as for socio-religious functions and medicinal purposes which serve as a useful tool for conservation of plants. Present work examined how plant parts are used by the local peoples of the area for worships to various gods, goddesses, customs and traditions related with various ceremonies. The religious activities serving as conserving tool for biodiversity. So, it is necessary to preserve and promote aesthetic values to conserve biodiversity and nature, which will surely play an important role in betterment of human beings. During the survey 32 plants belonging to 20 families have been recorded. These plants are used for religious as well as medicinal purpose viz. Achyranthes, Aegle, Annona, Azadiracta, Bambusa, Bauhinia, Butea, Calotropis,, Datura, Emblica, Ficus, Musa, Ocimum, Ricinus, Santalum, Sesamum and Zingiber. People of the study area are highly religious. These beliefs are not only showing the human relation with plant diversity, but also help in the conservation of species.

Keywords: Sacred, Medicinal, Plants, Malegaon.