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VOL. 11, ISSUE 1 (2026)
Ethnopharmacological and therapeutic potential of macrolichens of Kumaun Himalaya
Authors
Neha Pantola, Ritika Tamta, Balwant Kumar
Abstract
The Kumaun Himalayan region of India hosts a rich diversity of
macrolichens, yet their pharmacological potential remains underexplored.
Present study synthesizes available knowledge on the ethnopharmacological uses
and bioactivities of macrolichens from this region. A systematic collation of
38 macrolichen species belonging to 19 genera and 6 families was made from
oak-dominated forests at altitudes of 1600–2400 m. The majority were foliose
(25 species), followed by dimorphic (8) and fruticose (5) forms. Notably, 33
species (87%) possess documented pharmacological properties. The most prevalent
activities include antioxidant (20 species), traditional medicinal use (19
species), and antibacterial (19 species). Significant numbers also exhibit
anticancer (17 species), broad-spectrum antimicrobial (16 species), antifungal
(14 species), anti-inflammatory, and inhibitory properties (9 species each).
The study succinctly elaborates on the ethnopharmacological legacy of these
symbiotic organisms and exhibits critical research gaps, advocating for
targeted bioprospecting and phytochemical validation to unlock their full
therapeutic potential.
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Pages:225-234
How to cite this article:
Neha Pantola, Ritika Tamta, Balwant Kumar "Ethnopharmacological and therapeutic potential of macrolichens of Kumaun Himalaya". International Journal of Botany Studies, Vol 11, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 225-234
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