Author(s): Anjna D Kharwal and Dhiraj S Rawat

Abstract: Plants are the basis of life on earth and are central to people’s livelihood. Glimpses of our knowledge in ethno-medicine are available to Vedic text and there is an inextricable link between indigenous culture and biodiversity as areas of high biodiversity are often found on indigenous community’s lands. Ethno botany involves the reciprocal and dynamic aspect of the interaction of indigenous people with plants. This precious knowledge needs to be properly documented and conserved for the benefit of the present and future generations. North-Western Himalayas in India are well-known for their rich floral diversity, traditionally used as home remedies and form and important part of Himalayan folk medicine. The local communities and rural populace of Shivalik hills use 12 climbers and 4 lianas (13 dicots and 3 monocots) belonging to 9 families for their ethno-medicinal importance. Local communities not only use these climbers and lianas but also care for their conservation and protection; thus contributing towards sustainable development.