Abstract

The research work presented was initiated to get information and report the distribution of
Gymnosperms and their indigenous uses by the local inhabitants of sub-division Razmak,
North Waziristan Agency (NWA). As a whole 11 plants species belonging to 4 families of
gymnosperms were collected, briefly documented with botanical name, occurrence along
with ethno-botanical uses and are preserved in the Department of Botany, UST Bannu. These
families were Pinaceae, Taxaceae, Ephedraceae and Cupressaceae. The indigenous
knowledge of local people about the use of these native and cultivated plants was collected
through interview during field visits by using questionnaire. During visits, it was found that
the inhabitants of the concerned area use these plants for food fodder, shelters, construction
and fuel purposes and also utilized as a medicine and detergents. As These species are under
high biotic pressure like over grazing, browsing and other human activities e.g. cuttings for
fire wood and construction. Ruthless collection of Gymnosperms had threatened their
existence and more Gymnosperms are becoming vulnerable due to their habitat destruction.
Abies pindrow, Cedrus deodara and Pinus roxburghi are threatened species. There is a dire
need of attention to the conservation of Gymnosperms otherwise, these Gymnosperms will be
lost very soon and become extinct in this area. In view of this fact, an attempt has been made
in this research work, record Gymnosperms type and their uses in Razmak area.