Articles

Ethnomedicinal Plants Used by Tribes of Durg, Chhattisgarh

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The tribal communities of Durg district in Chhattisgarh possess a rich heritage of traditional knowledge, particularly in the use of ethnomedicinal plants for healthcare and healing practices. This study explores the various medicinal plants employed by these tribes to treat a range of ailments, including fever, skin diseases, digestive disorders, and respiratory issues. Field surveys, interviews with local healers, and participatory observations revealed that a diverse range of plant species, primarily sourced from local forests and farmlands, are used in traditional remedies. The knowledge passed down through generations, highlights the sustainable and holistic approach of indigenous communities toward healthcare. However, increasing modernization and loss of natural habitats threaten this traditional wisdom. Documenting and preserving this ethnomedicinal knowledge not only help in cultural conservation but also offers potential leads for the development of novel drugs in modern medicine.

Biosurfactant-Mediated Green Synthesis of Nanoparticles from Medicinal Endophytic Bacteria: A Comparative Evaluation of Antimicrobial and Anti-Biofilm Efficacy

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Biosurfactants, surface-active compounds made by bacteria, have drawn interest in the synthesis of nanoparticles. Using biosurfactants isolated from endophytic bacteria, nanoparticles made were looked for their antibacterial and antibiofilm abilities. UV-Vis spectrophotometry was used to confirm the synthesis and stability of nanoparticles. The nanoparticles showed inhibition that were similar to those of standard antibiotics when tested against bacterial strains of S. aureus and P. aeruginosa, indicating it to be a potential antibacterial. Additionally, they were found to be successful in preventing preformed biofilms, which is important because biofilms are a contributing factor to antibiotic resistance and chronic infections and thus can be a suitable biomedical application. These results demonstrate the potential of nanoparticles produced from biosurfactants as an alternative to antibacterial drugs. They are suitable for biological applications because of their ability to inhibit bacterial and biofilm growth. More investigation needs to be carried out to evaluate their toxicity, stability, and biocompatibility. Testing on in vivo models and cell cultures is crucial to determine their efficacy and safety in medical applications. Biosurfactant-based nanoparticles may provide a new and environmentally friendly method of creating an antibiotic in light of the growing prevalence of antibiotic resistance. By understanding the need for more research into bio-based options for infection management, this work adds to the expanding area of nanotechnology.