Plants in Bodo Folklore and Ritual Practices: An Ethnobotanical Perspective

The Bodo community of Northeast India possesses a rich repository of ethnobotanical knowledge, which is deeply embedded within folklore, rituals, and traditional healing practices. This paper explores the symbolic representation of plants, some of their therapeutic applications, and ecological significance, drawing on oral traditions and indigenous healthcare systems. Documenting such knowledge not only preserves an integral aspect of Bodo cultural identity but also highlights the relevance of traditional medicine in contemporary health and biodiversity conservation efforts. By bridging ethnobotany with cultural anthropology, this work underscores the need for safeguarding both plant biodiversity and the intangible heritage it sustains.