In the coastal char area of Bangladesh peoples generally collect herbs and shrubs from non cultivated source. A variety of plants have to identify in respect to ethnobotanic study. I want to know the appropriate methods for study ethnobotony aspects.
Dear Abul,
Firstly try to develop friendship with the local people where you are going to carry out ethnobotanical survey. You should assure them that they would not face any difficulty in their professional life if they share their traditional information with you. This is particularly applicable for local medicine man.
You can adopt the following methods:
Record the local names and uses of the plants which you receive from the informants.
Also note which plant part/ parts they are using. Are they using it alone or after mixing with other plants? If the plants have medicinal value then dose of administration is very important.
Collect voucher specimens for preserving them in the herbarium. They should preferably have flowers or fruits or both. Take photographs of the plants from the field.
Visit the local markets. You may find crafts made from different plants or vegetables less know or unknown to us or other interesting information about local uses of plants.
You can have small video clippings too, of course with their consent.
Ultimately when you publish the collected information do not forget to acknowledge the help of the local people from whom you have received all the information.
Hope this helps a bit.
Happy New Year,
Subir.
Dear Brother,
You can also find my publication in Researchgate on Identificaion and use of Indigenous Medicinal plant species in Bangladesh. Could be helpful for your study.
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