Some less known traditional medicinal uses of Saunf roots (Foeniculum vulgare, family Umbellifereae) in Chhattisgarh, India.

Some less known traditional medicinal uses of Saunf roots (Foeniculum vulgare, family Umbellifereae) in Chhattisgarh, India.

Pankaj Oudhia

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© Pankaj Oudhia

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In previous articles on Saunf, I have written a lot on traditional medicinal uses of its leaves and seeds by the natives and traditional healers of Chhattisgarh. Through the ethnobotanical surveys conducted in different parts of Chhattisgarh, I have collected few important traditional medicinal uses of its roots. The important observation was that the healers are using the roots both internally as well as externally in their routine practice. I am giving the details but at first I am describing the botany of this herb, I have noted from reference literatures. Botanically, Saunf is a tall, glabrous, dark green annual having height upto one meter; Leaves decompound, ultimate segments linear; Flowers in large umbels, bracts and bracteoles absent, yellow; Fruits ellipsoid, ridges prominent, furrows vittate, carpophore 2-partite.

The traditional healers of Bagbahera region specialized in treatment of dog bites frequently use the roots of Saunf herb as promising medicine. As first aid measure, the roots mixed with honey (Shahad) is applied externally on affected part. The use is continued till complete cure. The traditional healers of Narharpur region use the decoction of Saunf roots in treatment of patients suffering from Dysuria. It is considered as promising diuretic. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh Plains use the roots of Saunf in combination with other herbs in treatment of many gynaecological troubles. It is considered as a boon for the patients suffering from Amenorrhoea. The healers of Gandai-Salewara region, boil the freshly harvested roots in water and patients having the problem of Lumbago are advised to expose the painful parts in fumes. This external use reduces the pain immediately. In combination of other herbs, the healers use Saunf roots in treatment of Lumbago, internally also. According to the healers, the nature (Tasir) of Saunf root is hot.

Many of the above mentioned traditional uses of Saunf roots are not mentioned in reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India. I am feeling proud to document these important information.

Thank you very much for reading the article.