Socio-Geographical Dimensions of Medicinal Plant Trade in the Shekhawati Region, Rajasthan

Dr. Mukesh Kumar Sharma

Shekhawati, ethnomedicinal plants, medicinal plant trade, socio-geography, Rajasthan, livelihoods, market networks, traditional knowledge

The Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, with its unique semi-arid climate and deep-rooted traditional knowledge systems, is a significant source of ethnomedicinal plants that anchor both local health cultures and livelihoods. This research paper critically analyzes the socio-geographical aspects of medicinal plant trade in Shekhawati, focusing on plant distribution, collection practices, community participation, market networks, and socio-economic benefits and challenges. Drawing on secondary data, field records, and historical ethnobotanical surveys from before 2015, the study reveals that trade is shaped by geographic resource clusters, caste/community specializations, gender roles, seasonality, and growing market demand. However, the trade faces challenges from resource depletion, unequal benefit distribution, limited policy support, and loss of traditional knowledge. Recommendations stress community empowerment, sustainable practices, and improved institutional linkages for equitable and resilient medicinal plant trade systems suited to the region’s unique context.