Date of Visit: 10th may 2025
Time: 11 A.M to 4 P.M.
Location: Paalamotai Nainamadu Forest Reserve in Olumadu, near Nedunkeni in Vavuniya District, Sri Lanka.
Organized by: Faculty of Siddha Medicine, Department of Gunapadam
Participants: 2nd BSMS Students
Supervisor: Dr.Mrs. V. Sathiyaseelan, Dr. Mrs. N. Nithiakumar,
Guide: Mr. A. Sanjayan, Mr, J. Eugin Benat, Miss. A. Mayoori, Miss. T. Sharsaagini, Miss. V. Gumuthagini.
The field visit was organized as part of our curriculum under Mooligaiyeyal – II to enhance practical knowledge about medicinal plants and their uses in traditional and modern medicine. It was conducted during the academic field hours of 2nd BSMS students guided by academic staff and temporary demonstrators of department of Gunapadam.
The objective was to identify and document medicinal plants growing in a specific region, along with their therapeutic uses, life cycle, toxic properties, and useful parts. Also understand the ecological and medicinal significance of various plant species used in siddha healthcare systems.
The field visit commenced at 11:00 AM and concluded at 4:00 PM. During the forest walk, we observed and documented nearly 120 species of medicinal herbal plants. We identified their botanical names and plant families, noted the parts of the plants used in medicine, and studied the ecological and medicinal significance of various species used in the Siddha healthcare system. We also noted botanical features (such as leaf shape, flowers, and bark), and their habitats.
Among the identified species, nearly 15 are rare medicinal plants are rare, such as Vedpalai, Panichchai, Pirai, Karunkali, Mulli, Kaddu Kaarai, Veerai, Kalthaamarai, Peikommaddi,kakkaikolli, murali, savurikkodi, etc Some plant specimens were also collected for nursery preparation, while others were gathered for herbarium specimen preparation and medicinal use.
The field visit was an enriching experience that bridged theoretical knowledge with field-based learning. It underscored the importance of preserving biodiversity and encouraged us to further explore the field of ethnobotany.
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