Exploring the traditional therapeutic potential of Timur (Zanthoxylum armatum DC.): Scientific insights from the bhotiya tribes of Mid-Himalaya, India

The Bhotiya tribes of Mid-Himalaya inherit a vast traditional knowledge. These indigenous knowledge practiced generation after generation have been effective for survival in cold climatic conditions in higher altitude of Himalaya. Prickly Ash, locally known as Timur (Zanthoxylum alatum DC.) is a plant which is widely incorporated in socio-cultural practices of this tribe. Several parts of Timur plant are used as sauces, spices and medicines. To study the health benefits claimed by the tribe on scientific background this study was conducted. In this paper documentation of Timur (Zanthoxylum armatum DC.) hag (Soup) and dunkcha (Sauce or chutney) preparation and biochemical analysis of the main ingredient was done. The study was conducted in the Munsiyari block of Kumaoun Himalayan district of Pithoragarh and Chinyalisaur block of Gharwal Himalayan Uttarkashi district. Focused group discussion and key informant interview method were followed to collect data from Bhotiya Tribes on medicinal utility of Timur. The biochemical analysis of Timur revealed that total phenol content was 16.47–25.39 mg gallic acid equivalents per gram dry weight; total flavonoids content was 7.91–10.59 mg per gram of quercetin equivalents assayed by vanillin-HCl colorimetric assay expressed in catechins equivalents. Radical scavenging activity on DPPH and ABTS recorded 76.23–83.22 %. Total Antioxidant Activities was 46.03–54.41 µM trolox equivalent. The findings from this comprehensive biochemical analysis not only corroborate the traditional medicinal applications of Prickly Ash (Timur) by the Bhotiya tribes but also reveal the sound scientific basis for its therapeutic efficacy.