Ethnomedicinal Importance, and Ecological Role of Blumea Species in East Singhbhum District, Jharkhand (India): Emphasis on Plant–Insect Interactions

The genus Blumea (Asteraceae) comprises aromatic herbaceous plants widely distributed in tropical Asia and well represented in eastern India. The present account synthesizes field observations and local knowledge on Blumea species occurring in East Singhbhum district, Jharkhand, with particular emphasis on morphology, medicinal use, habitat preference, distribution, and ecological interactions with insects. Species such as Blumea flava, B. fistulosa, B. lacera, B. axillaris, and allied taxa were recorded from forest edges, grasslands, roadside vegetation, and disturbed habitats around Dalma, Jamshedpur, Musabani, and Ghatshila. Local communities utilize these plants extensively for respiratory, digestive, febrile, and dermatological ailments. Flowering Blumea species attract a wide assemblage of insects including butterflies, bees, moths, ants, and beetles, indicating their role as important nectar and pollen resources. The study highlights Blumea species as key components linking traditional medicine with ecosystem functioning in Jharkhand’s forested landscapes.