Abstract

The present study aims to highlight the current knowledge of the usefulness of Knotweeds (Polygonum L.) of India as to point out what species need careful consideration for conservation rather than eradication. The present  study intends to produce an inventory of the important Polygonums that needs re-evaluation for cultivation and hence increasing our accessibility to natural medicinal products. Out of about 72 species reported to occur in India, we found 34 promising species that could be utilized for medicines, ornamentals, famine food and others. Many ethno-botanical data confined to a very small niche of ethnic people residing in Eastern Himalayan region are being reported here for the first time.

Key words: Ethnomedicine, Polygonum, Himalaya, India.