MEDICINAL PLANT CONSERVATION IN SACRED GROVES GHANTESWARI, SAMBALPUR, ODISHA

A sacred grove, sometimes known as a sacred forest, is a collection of natural vegetation that can range in size from a few trees to several acres. Due to their religious beliefs and long-standing customs, the local communities have vowed to maintain the areas of these sacred woods. An effort was undertaken in this survey to catalogue the medical uses of plants discovered in the Sacred Groves Ghanteswari in Sambalpur, Odisha. The investigation in the Maa Ghanteswari Sacred Groves led to the discovery of 20 species from 16 groups that are significant for medicine. These plants have spiritual significance in addition to their therapeutic value. The natives protect these plants because they hold them in high regard.

Key Words: - Sacred groves, Medicinal Plants, Biodiversity conservation, Maa Ghanteswari Sacred Groves