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Article History

Received: 19 June 2025

Accepted: 11 November 2025

First Online: 16 December 2025

Declarations

:

: The authors declare no competing interests.

: The study followed the eleven principles outlined in the International Society of Ethnobiology Code of Ethics that emphasizes a reciprocal engagement with indigenous communities at every step of the research process. Informed consent was obtained prior to participation, with a clear description of study goals and scope provided. After the data collection, traditional healers and informants participated in verbal feedback sessions conducted in local dialects to share with them the preliminary findings. Under the benefit-sharing program, hard copies of documentation summaries are prepared for outreach to local community centers, forest departments and educational institutions for contribution and education on plant use and conservation ideas. Informed consent was obtained from all 58 participants through verbal and written communication, with provisions made for illiterate informants via oral explanation and witnessed consent. Participation was entirely voluntary, and informants retained the right to withdraw at any stage. The ethical framework ensured respect for indigenous knowledge systems, confidentiality of personal data, and equitable representation of community perspectives.One of these is intended to ensure that indigenous knowledge is returned to its custodians with respect and that communities can contribute to future conservation and validation programs.