Diversity and traditional utilization of the genus Kaempferia (Zingiberaceae) in Maha Sarakham Province

Abstract

Diversity and traditional utilization of the genus Kaempferia (Zingiberaceae) in Maha Sarakham Province is studied between October 2018 and September 2019. Eight species of Kaempferia, namely Kaempferia angustifolia Rosc. (Prab-Sa-Mut), K. galanga L. (Proa-Hom), K. gilbertii W.Bull.(Sa-ri-Ka-Lin-Thong), K. mahasarakhamensis Saensouk & P. Saensouk (Toob-Moob-Mahasarakham), K. marginata Carey (Toob-Moob), K. parviflora Wall. ex Baker (Kra-Chai-Dam), K. pulchra Ridl. (Wan-Nok-Kum) and K. rotunda L. (Wan-How-Non) are recognized. The Key to species of the genus Kaempferia in Maha Sarakham Province is constructed from morphology. There are three species of plants found in natural forests. The other five species are plants that are grown in homes. Among the total, there is one species found both in nature forests and cultivation, namely K. rotunda L. One rare and endemic plant, Kaempferia mahasarakhamensis Saensouk & P. Saensouk. has been found. The traditional utilizations of Kaempferia are reported five uses which are herbs (4 species), rituals (4 species), ornamental plants (3 species), food plants (2 species) and tonic plants (1 species). The most parts of the plants utilized include pseudostem, rhizomes and leaves.