Ethno-botanical, ethno-medicinal and ex situ conservation practices of Prunus ceylanica: an endangered tree species from Andhra Pradesh, India

ABSTRACT:

Prunus ceylanica (Wight) Miq. is an evergreen tree of the family Rosaceae that is native to India and Sri Lanka and is commomly called ceylon cherry. The species of this nomenclatureal type was collected from the Ceylon region. Ethno-botanical data on Prunus ceylanica were collected by conducting a field survey in tribal communities of the forest area between August 2022 and July 2023. The ethno-botanical data were collected from the tribal communities by field survey, open interviews with traditional healers, and questionnaires provided to the tribal populations in the forest area. The whole plant is used in the traditional system. The traditional usage of the plant by indigenous tribal communities was collected by interacting with the local people. Different parts are used in curing skin diseases, boils, and stomach ulcers. The fruits are eaten by jungle cats. Prunus ceylanica is an ethno-botanically useful plant. The wood is moderately hard and used in making raw furniture, wooden boxes, planks, and booths. The wood material is a good source of fuel for firing bricks. Prunus ceylanica is medicinally used in various ways by local tribal communities. When squashed, the bark, leaves, and fruits emits the smell of bitter almonds. Potent applications of the tree are documented. Prunus ceylanica was conserved by some ex situ conservation practices like seed collection and saplings protection. The seeds were collected from the tree and sown in poly bags, achieving a good number of saplings. Because it is endangered, conservation of prunus ceylanica was carried both onsite and offsite to increase the number of individuals. Stem cuttings show moderate success with the application of hormones. The present study focuses on the ethno-botanical utilization and potential application of Prunus ceylanica from the maredumilli forest region of Andhra Pradesh