An ethnobotanical survey was carried out among the Malaiyali ethnic in lower Palamalai Hills, North- west of Salem District. The study mainly focused on the common plant used by the malaiyali ethnics in the reserve for various non-medicinal purpose (Mat, net and rope making, construction, hedge, religious, decorative, to ward off evil spirits, fish poison, and leech repellents) through structured questionnaires and consultations with very old and knowledgeable tribals. Of the Collected plants, a total of 30 plant species were identified as economically important plants and a good number of plants are used for religious purpose. The investigation underlines the potential of ethnobotanical research and needs to document the traditional knowledge pertaining to the use of plants for greater benefit of mankind.
