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VOL. 11, ISSUE 1 (2026)
Ethno botanical study of traditional plant-based cosmetic practices in the mettala region of Namakkal District, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors
Nithya S, Wesely Jebasing Devairakkam E G, Subramanian
Abstract
Communities living in the Eastern Ghats have traditionally depended on
indigenous plant resources for healthcare and personal well-being. Among these
communities, Irular tribal women possess considerable knowledge regarding the
use of local plant species for cosmetic and personal care purposes. The present
study aimed to document the traditional plant-based cosmetic practices followed
by Irular women residing in the Mettala Hills of Namakkal District, located in the
Puthupatti Reserved Forest. An ethno botanical field survey was conducted
during the winter season of 2022. Data were collected from 75 female informants
representing three different age groups using structured questionnaires and
semi-structured interviews. The study recorded 25 plant species belonging to 16
botanical families that are traditionally used by the Irular community for
various cosmetic applications. The documented plants were primarily used to
treat several skin and hair-related conditions. The most commonly reported uses
included the treatment of pimples and acne (17%), reduction of dark circles and
anti-aging effects (13%), promotion of hair growth and improvement of skin
shine (12%), treatment of facial spots (10%), management of skin rashes,
infections, and irritation (10%), enhancement of skin freshness and softness
(8%), skin miniaturization (8%), reduction of wrinkles and freckles (8%),
correction of skin and hair pigmentation (6%), improvement of natural skin tone
and glow (3%), control of body odour (3%), and removal of facial hair (2%).
This study represents one of the first attempts to document the cosmetic
dimension of ethno botanical knowledge in the study area. The findings
highlight the rich traditional knowledge maintained by Irular women regarding
plant-based cosmetic practices. Further comprehensive studies are recommended
to systematically document, validate, and preserve this valuable indigenous
knowledge, which may also contribute to the development of natural cosmetic
products in the future.
Pages:23-28
How to cite this article:
Nithya S, Wesely Jebasing Devairakkam E G, Subramanian "Ethno botanical study of traditional plant-based cosmetic practices in the mettala region of Namakkal District, Tamil Nadu, India". International Journal of Biology Research, Vol 11, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 23-28
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