Vitaceae members in selected sacred groves of kerala

Sacred groves are virgin forests and acts as site for in situ conservation of bio-resources and shows near climax vegetation of lot of trees and associate groups of organisms, managed as a part of local cultural tradition. This study was conducted in the selected sacred groves of Kerala. The present study revealed a total of 8 species belonging to Vitaceae. These groves includes trees, shrubs, herbs and climbers representing Vulnerable and Endemic species. 98.88% plants in the groves are medicinal and used in different systems of medicines. Some native medicinal plants are available in undisturbed areas like groves. Medicinal plant species are present in the groves are used in the treatment of diseases in Ayurveda, Folk, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy and traditional systems for common ailments like cough, ulcers, bronchitis, skin diseases, etc.