Ethnobotanical Importance of Some Highly Medicinal plants of District Muzaffarabad, Pakistan with special reference to the Species of the Genus Viburnum

An ethnobotanical exploration was carried out in Muzaffarabad and its adjoining areas including Jhelum Valley of the District Muzaffarabad during 2010-2011. All the plants with the ethnobotanical importance were identified and segregated separately. The region is entirely mountainous, having sub-tropical to dry temperate climate with distinct seasonal variations. This study mainly focused on the information regarding traditional uses of plants over the years by local inhabitants. The informations were then confirmed by Hakims and the old people of the areas. During the survey informations were collected from various sites, i.e. Noon Bagla, Rahim Kot, Danna Kachilee, Kot Terhala, Sanwarrian, Chikar, Chikothi, Kathiee, Qazi Nag, Rashian, Daokhun, Mojee, Lamnian, Nardaggian, Pandu, Hatian Balla, Ghahi Dopatta, Chinnari, Rabanee, Bani Hafiz, Domel, Hattian Dopatta, Khanssian, Nandi Ka Sar, Sing Paharee,Nari Bela, Khalla Butt and Leepa. The plants were used medicinally and for other purposes. The investigations resulted that usually one plant or a mixture of two or more plant is used. The unplanned exploitation had resulted in the loss of medicinally important plant species. It was concluded that afforestation programme followed by proper protection is need of time.