Orchidaceae is one of the most highly evolved and fascinating families among angiosperms. It’s unique floral structure not only attracts pollinators, but also captivated human interest for centuries. Additionally, orchids possess significant medicinal properties that have been recognized since the Vedic era. The Rarh region of West Bengal, India is distinct for its unique physio geographical characteristics and diverse tribal communities. Due to their specialized floral structures, it becomes an important and most precious ornamental group of plants. Orchids contribute significantly to biodiversity and also used in traditional medicinal practices. Present study represents on the documentation of orchid diversity in the region with reference to its ecological significance through field survey and collected the informations regarding their medicinal applications, highlighting the need for conservation efforts

Enumeration, Medicinal, Orchidaceae, Rarh-Bengal, West Bengal

Due to its unique geographical position, divers’ climatic conditions, and edaphic factors, the rarh region provides a platform for growing different floral and faunal wealth. Present communication recorded 29 orchid species, which are fully used as medicinally important plants in traditional systems, except one (Didymoplexis pallens). They are being used more by people, which is causing their number depletion & putting them at risk of disappearing from the wild. Due to anthropogenic activities and over-exploitation of orchids, conservation aspects are essential to preserve their biodiversity and ensure the survival of these interesting plants in the scenario of habitat loss and climate change

Tanmay Santra, Arundhuti Singha, Sharmistha Singha, Ayan Kumar Naskar and Akramul Hoque (2025). The Healing Orchids of Rarh-Bengal, India: Diversity and Traditional Knowledge. Biological Forum, 17(7): 192-200