Status, Use and Management of Sugandhawal (Valeriana jatamansi): In Phoikalika Community Forest of Jumla District, Nepal - Tapa blanda

Valeriana jatamansi is slightly hairy, tufted herb, up to 45 cm in height, found in the temperate Himalayas at an altitude of 1200-3000m.The study on V.jatamansi was carried out to assess its status in terms of density, frequency, biomass, abundance, local use and management practice along with physico-chemical properties of soils in order to know its status in a particular soil. Similarly soil samples were collected from each stratum and analyzed for physical and chemical properties. Soil texture, pH, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, potassium, organic matter were determined by hydrometer, pH meter, Kjeldhal, Olsens Bicarbonate, Flame Photometer and Walkey-Black Methods respectively. Local use and management practice were assessed through questionnaire survey. High density and frequency of V.jatamansi were found in strata with loamy sand soil having comparatively higher Nitrogen, Organic matter, Potassium, pH and Moisture content. It is locally used in urinary problem, headache, eye problem and cutting wound. It should be conserved and managed efficiently for medicinal and commercial purpose.

Mr. Shankar Adhikari, permanent resident of Rupse-4 Palpa, is currently working as Forest Officer in District Forest Office Lalitpur Nepal. He completed his graduation in Forestry from Institute of Forestry Pokhara Campus Pokhara Nepal in 2009.