Ethno biological treatment of piles by bhoxas of uttar pradesh
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Ethno biological treatment of piles by bhoxas of uttar pradesh
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
Harish Singh
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Ethno biological treatment of piles by bhoxas of uttar pradesh
Year: 1988
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The Bhoxa tribe of Uttar Pradesh, recognized as one of India's primitive tribes, utilizes various ethnomedicinal plants and animals for treating health ailments, particularly piles, locally known as 'Babasir.' With a population of approximately 34,195 out of about 2,11,159 tribal individuals in the state, the Bhoxas mainly inhabit forested regions and rely on local flora and fauna for traditional medicinal practices. Through an ethnobotanical survey conducted in 1986-87, the paper outlines the treatment methods and restrictions associated with various remedies used by the Bhoxas for piles, a common condition affecting the anorectal region.
Ethnomedicinal Practices for Treating Piles
Among the plants used by the Bhoxa tribe to treat piles, Achyranthes aspera (locally known as Ulta charchita) is noteworthy. The internal use of its juice, mixed with milk, is advocated to alleviate bleeding, while the ash from its fruiting spikes is applied externally post-defecation. Other significant plants include Ageratum conyzoides, whose leaf paste is applied externally, and Azadirachta indica, where seed oil is used to relieve itching and bleeding. Each plant comes with specific dietary restrictions to enhance the treatment's effectiveness, such as avoiding chilies or tamarind, which differ from previous studies. This highlights the tribe's unique knowledge and ritualistic approaches to addressing health issues through local biodiversity.
Conclusion
The Bhoxa tribe's ethnobiological treatment of piles illustrates the intertwining of culture and traditional medicine. By recognizing the significance of various plants and animals within their medicinal practices, the Bhoxas not only maintain their cultural heritage but also contribute valuable knowledge to ethnobotany. This case study emphasizes the importance of documenting and preserving indigenous medical practices, as they offer insights into sustainable health solutions rooted in local ecosystems and community wisdom, potentially benefiting broader medical and environmental practices.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the focus of Harish Singh's paper on Bhoxa tribe?
The paper discusses ethnomedicinal plants and animals used by the Bhoxa tribe of Uttar Pradesh in treating piles, highlighting various remedies and dietary restrictions associated with the disease.
What are the two types of piles described in the document?
The two types of piles are bleeding piles, where swelling occurs and bleeding follows evacuation, and itchy piles, which cause irritation and pain in the anal region.
Can you name a plant used for treating piles by Bhoxas?
One plant used is Achyranthes aspera, whose juice is taken with milk to reduce bleeding piles, and the ash of its spikes is applied externally after defecation.
What dietary restrictions are noted in the treatment of piles?
Dietary restrictions typically include avoiding chillies, tamarind, fatty oils, and excessive physical strain, which are believed to exacerbate the condition according to Bhoxa tribal practices.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Ethno biological treatment of piles by bhoxas of uttar pradesh”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Tamarind:
Tamarind is a tangy fruit commonly used in Indian cuisine. In the context of Bhoxa tribal medicine, it plays a role as a dietary restriction for those suffering from piles. The avoidance of tamarind is believed to aid in the treatment process, likely due to its potential effects on digestion and irritation.
2) Irritation:
Irritation refers to a painful or uncomfortable sensation, commonly experienced in conditions such as piles. Understanding the causes and symptoms of irritation is crucial to the Bhoxa tribe's ethnomedicinal practices. Several plants mentioned, such as Blumea lacera, aim to alleviate this symptom, indicating the tribe's focus on holistic treatment.
3) Kali (Kālī, Kāli, Kāḻi):
Kali refers to black pepper (Piper nigrum), a common spice in Indian cooking. In this document, it is noted in conjunction with other plants to enhance medicinal properties. For example, it is mixed with Raphanus sativus to provide relief from piles. Its role highlights the blend of culinary and medicinal practices in tribal healing.
4) Neem:
Neem (Azadirachta indica) is renowned for its medicinal properties, particularly its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. Within the Bhoxa tribe's ethnomedicinal practices, neem oil is applied to piles to control bleeding and itching. The emphasis on neem reflects the tribe's reliance on plants for holistic healthcare and traditional remedies.
5) Rice (Ṛce):
Rice serves as a staple food and has significance in dietary restrictions within Bhoxa tribal remedies. Several treatments for piles indicate that the consumption of rice should be limited or avoided, as excessive intake may exacerbate symptoms. This suggests an intimate knowledge of food's impact on health among tribes.
6) Itching:
Itching is a distressing symptom associated with piles that affects the anal region. The Bhoxa tribe's remedies indicate a deep understanding of this ailment, as they utilize various plant applications to combat itching. Managing this symptom is a key aspect of their traditional healing practices, demonstrating effective ethnomedicine.
7) Madhya (Mādhya):
Madhya refers to Madhya Pradesh, a region in India. While not directly discussed in the paper, its mention situates the geographical context of Uttar Pradesh, where the Bhoxa tribe resides. Understanding the broader regional landscape aids in comprehending the cultural and medicinal practices prevalent in the neighboring areas.
8) Water:
Water is essential for life and healing. In the context of traditional medicine, it often serves as a solvent for herbal concoctions or is involved in treatment practices. The Bhoxa tribe employs water in some of their medicinal remedies, showcasing its vital role in facilitating the consumption of plant-based treatments.
9) Diet:
Diet plays a crucial role in the health and treatment of piles in Bhoxa traditional medicine. Certain dietary restrictions are emphasized, such as avoiding specific foods like chillies and tamarind. This aspect highlights the interconnectedness of nutrition and ethnomedicine, as dietary choices can significantly influence health outcomes.
10) Milk:
Milk is used in various treatments mentioned in the ethnobotanical survey. It serves as a carrier for administering herbal remedies and is noted for its soothing properties. The inclusion of milk in treatments showcases the tribe's holistic approach, combining both plant-based and animal-based resources for effective healing.
11) Tinospora cordifolia:
Tinospora cordifolia, known for its health benefits in traditional medicine, is included among the plants used by the Bhoxa tribe. This climber is recognized for its immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects, making it significant in treating various ailments, particularly in conjunction with other plants for holistic remedies.
12) Azadirachta indica:
Azadirachta indica, commonly known as neem, is highlighted for its versatile medicinal properties. The Bhoxa tribe utilizes neem oil for external application on piles to manage symptoms. Its emphasis in traditional medicine reflects a reliance on natural resources for effective treatment, focusing on prevention and relief.
13) Butea monosperma:
Butea monosperma, or Dhak, is another significant plant employed by the Bhoxa tribe to treat piles. The gum from this tree is ingested with milk. Its use signifies the importance of plant-based internal remedies in traditional practices, pointing to a rich understanding of local flora's medicinal attributes.
14) Mustard oil:
Mustard oil's role in tribal medicine is notable for its application in external remedies. When combined with other elements like the wall-lizard, it is used to alleviate swelling in piles. This demonstrates the tribe’s innovative use of locally available resources, emphasizing their practical knowledge of organic healing methods.
15) Raphanus sativus:
Raphanus sativus, or radish, is recognized in the Bhoxa tribe's treatment for piles. The internal use of its root juice combined with black pepper illustrates the integration of common vegetables in medicinal applications. This highlights traditional dietary practices intertwined with health interventions, showcasing a holistic approach.
16) Syzygium cumini:
Syzygium cumini, also known as Jamun, is referenced for its bark, which is prepared as an alcoholic beverage for treating bleeding piles. This illustrates the dual role of plants in both nutrition and medicine, reflecting the Bhoxa tribe’s cultural practices that combine healing and dietary habits.
17) Mustard:
Mustard has a prominent role in culinary practices and as an oil source in traditional medicine. Its application in herbal preparations as an oil extract demonstrates its significance in treating ailments like piles. This showcases the blend of food and medicine that is prevalent in Bhoxa ethnobotanical practices.
18) Jamun:
Jamun (Syzygium cumini) is known for its health benefits, particularly in managing blood sugar levels. Its inclusion among ethnomedicinal practices points to the tribe's extensive knowledge of local flora, emphasizing its importance in treating various ailments while highlighting the interconnectedness of diet and medicinal practice.
19) Kala (Kālā, Kalā, Kāla):
Kala refers to 'black,' notably in the context of black pepper ('Kali Mirch') used in various treatments mentioned. The term highlights the role of color in identifying specific plants and spices utilized in traditional medicine. Understanding these associations aids in appreciating the local knowledge embedded in Bhoxa healthcare.
20) Meat:
Meat, specifically the consumption of a newborn mouse, is mentioned as a remedy for piles. This practice reflects the tribe's unconventional but culturally significant approaches to health. Such uses indicate a broader connection between animal-derived treatments and traditional medicine within Bhoxa practices, showcasing their belief systems.
21) Hand:
Hand typically refers to manual application in treatment practices. In the context of medicinal applications, such as the external use of herbal pastes, the 'hand' signifies the active engagement of tribal healers in remedy preparation and application. This emphasizes the hands-on nature of ethnomedicine practiced by the Bhoxa tribe.