Population Assessment and Conservation of Paris polyphylla, A Threatened Medicinal Plant in North East India

Abstract

Background: Paris polyphylla thrives in semi-evergreen forests of subtropical regions, often found in bamboo forests, rocky slopes, thickets, stream-sides, and other shady, moist areas.  Although P. polyphylla is recognised as an important medicinal and ethnobotanical plant in the Himalayan and North-Eastern regions of India, most existing studies have primarily focused on its phytochemical composition, pharmacological properties, and ethnomedicinal applications. Limited research has been conducted on its ecological status, population structure, and habitat characteristics, particularly in Manipur. Aims: To study the ecological parameters, population assessments and interactions with traditional local people to learn about the P. polyphylla 's ethno-medicinal applications in Manipur, which is known for its rich biodiversity and cultural diversity. Study Design: Assessment of population and ecological parameters for the conservation strategies. Place and Duration of Study: Three different habitat sites of P. polyphylla in Manipur: Makhel (Senapati), Purul Akutpa (Senapati) and Langdang Village (Ukhrul) during February, 2022 to January, 2023. Methodology: Field surveys were carried out in the habitat sites of P. polyphylla at different intervals during February, 2022 to January, 2023. Vegetation sampling was done using the Quadrat method, with fifteen 1x1 m quadrats placed randomly at 2–3 m intervals. Physicochemical properties and soil of the soil are studied using the soil testing kit. Moreover, climatic parameters of the study areas are also added. Results: The present study shows the highest population density (2.4 individual m-2) and frequency (60%) in Makhel village, Senapati District and the lowest density (1.3 individual m-2) and frequency (26.67%) in Purul akutpa village, Senapati District, Manipur. The species prefers shady and swampy habitats with acidic soil (pH 4.3–4.7). However, overexploitation and illegal export have severely threatened its survival. Conclusion: Makhel Village in Senapati District, Manipur showed the highest P. polyphylla density and frequency in this study. However, it is found rarely in the human occupied areas. Different factors like unsustainable and over-harvesting, urbanization, grazing, etc. has led to gradual decline of the plant population. To address this, conservation efforts such as rhizome and seed propagation, ecological niche models, and awareness programmes are essential.