Ethnobotany of medicinal plants for skin infections in Indian tribals.
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Ethnobotany of certain medicinal plants used by tribals of india against skin infections
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.
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Original source:
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S. Radhika Iyer
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Ethnobotany of certain medicinal plants used by tribals of india against skin infections
Year: 1992
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The ethnobotanical practices of various tribal communities in India reveal a rich tradition of using plants for medicinal purposes, particularly in the treatment of skin infections. This report highlights the plants utilized by different tribal populations, emphasizing their antimicrobial and antiallergic properties, some of which have been scientifically documented. It underscores the importance of documenting these traditional uses as they may serve as effective and economical alternatives to conventional medicine once their bioactive principles are established.
Traditional Knowledge and Medicinal Plants
One significant concept presented in the report is the diverse range of plant species employed by various tribal groups across India for skincare. These plants have been categorized based on the regions inhabited by the tribes, with a detailed listing of their botanical names, families, English names, local vernaculars, and the parts used in treatments. For example, the Bhils and Gond tribes utilize plants such as Flacourtia indica and Argemone mexicana, applying them in various forms like pastes or juices to treat infections. By compiling this knowledge, the report affirms the potential of traditional remedies to complement modern medicinal practices, providing both efficacy and cost-effectiveness.
Conclusion
Continuing research into the ethnobotanical practices of Indian tribals can lead to the discovery of new therapeutic agents for managing skin infections, contributing to the broader field of herbal medicine. This report serves as a valuable resource for scientists and herbalists aiming to investigate the pharmacological benefits of these plants. Recognizing and validating this traditional knowledge could not only enhance healthcare options but also promote the sustainable use of local flora, thereby preserving cultural heritage while addressing health challenges within and beyond tribal communities.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main focus of the ethnobotany study?
The study highlights various medicinal plants used by Indian tribals for treating skin infections. It aims to categorize these plants and assess their known antimicrobial properties, validating traditional medicinal practices.
How many plants are commonly used for skin infections?
Different tribal populations in India use numerous plants for skin infections. The study categorizes these plants and indicates that many have already shown antimicrobial and antiallergic properties through scientific validation.
What is the significance of the plants listed in the study?
The plants listed have been used traditionally for healing skin ailments. Scientific studies are necessary to confirm their medicinal value, potentially offering effective and affordable treatment alternatives for broader populations.
Which regions of India are highlighted in the ethnobotany report?
The report covers various tribal regions across India, including Chotanagpur, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Nilgiris, Laddakh, and Andhra Pradesh, documenting the local medicinal plants utilized for skin ailments.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Ethnobotany of medicinal plants for skin infections in Indian tribals.”. 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) Himalaya (Himālaya, Hima-alaya):
Himalaya refers to the mountain range in Asia, known for its rich biodiversity and significant cultural heritage. The region houses various tribal communities who utilize indigenous plants for medicinal purposes, particularly in skin infections, thus linking it to traditional ethnobotanical practices and remedies.
2) Samhita (Saṃhitā, Saṃhita):
Samhita denotes compilations of ancient texts outlining medical knowledge, treatment methods, and herbal pharmacology in the Indian tradition. Specifically, the Charak and Susruta Samhitas are foundational to Ayurveda, detailing numerous plant-based treatments still relevant in contemporary herbal medicine practices.
3) Sushruta-samhita (Suśruta-saṃhitā):
Susruta-samhita is a pivotal Sanskrit text attributed to Sushruta, detailing surgical techniques and various healing herbs. It emphasizes plant usage for treating ailments, including skin disorders, showcasing the historical intertwining of surgery and herbal medicine in ancient Indian healthcare practices.
4) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses practices, procedures, and plants used for healing ailments, including those documented in ethnobotanical studies. The traditional use of plants by Indian tribes reflects an integral part of their medical systems, providing potential contemporary applications in pharmacology.
5) Itching:
Itching is a common symptom associated with various skin conditions, which the tribal populations in India address using specific medicinal plants. The ethnobotanical knowledge highlights the significance of understanding various remedies derived from local flora to alleviate such discomfort.
6) Jasmine:
Jasmine refers to the genus of flowering plants known for their fragrant blooms. In the context of tribal medicine, specific species are employed for their soothing properties, integrating the cultural appreciation of scent with practical applications in treating skin conditions.
7) Drug:
Drug refers to any substance used for medical purposes, including plant-based medicines utilized historically by various tribes in India. Ethnobotany explores these substances' efficacy in treating skin infections, emphasizing their potential for modern drug development.
8) Mustard oil:
Mustard oil is an edible oil extracted from mustard seeds, used traditionally in cooking and folk medicine. In the context of skin infections, it serves as a carrier for medicinal substances, enhancing the efficacy of treatments sourced from various plants.
9) Plumbago zeylanica:
Plumbago zeylanica, or Ceylon leadwort, is a herbaceous plant recognized for its therapeutic properties. It is commonly used in traditional Indian medicine to treat skin ailments, showcasing the utility of this plant in enhancing skin health and combating infections.
10) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibacterial refers to substances that inhibit bacterial growth or kill bacteria. Many plants documented in the ethnobotanical practices of Indian tribes exhibit these properties, reinforcing the value of traditional knowledge in discovering potential new antibiotics from natural sources.
11) Bhringaraja (Bhṛṅgarāja, Bhringa-raja, Bhrimgaraja):
Bhringaraja, also known as Eclipta alba, is a significant herb in Ayurvedic medicine. It is valued for its purported medicinal properties, particularly in skin treatments, where it plays a role in addressing various conditions, showcasing the link between herbalism and health.
12) Science (Scientific):
Science represents the systematic study of natural phenomena, including the exploration of medicinal plants used in traditional medicine. It plays a pivotal role in validating ethnobotanical knowledge by assessing the efficacy and safety of these natural remedies.
13) Harsingar (Harsiṅgār):
Harsingar, or Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, is a flowering plant known for its medicinal properties. It is utilized in traditional remedies for treating skin infections, symbolizing the integration of local flora in tribal healthcare practices.
14) Liquorice (Licorice):
Liquorice, derived from Glycyrrhiza glabra, is renowned for its numerous therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Its historical use in tribal medicine underscores its potential for modern applications in treating various ailments, including skin conditions.
15) Ayurveda (Āyurveda, Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda represents an ancient system of medicine originating from India that emphasizes holistic healing through natural remedies. The link between Ayurveda and the use of specific plants by tribal populations presents a historical context for ethnobotanical research.
16) Parijata (Pārijātā, Pārījāta, Pārijāta, Parijāta):
Parijata, or Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, is an important plant in traditional Indian medicine, particularly used by tribes for skin ailments. Its significance lies in the blend of cultural and medical practices among various tribal communities.
17) Turmeric:
Turmeric, derived from Curcuma longa, is a widely recognized spice and medicinal herb known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Its use in traditional remedies illustrates the cultural significance and practical applications of this plant for skin conditions.
18) Activity:
Activity refers to the biochemical properties of plants that confer healing benefits. Understanding the pharmacological activity of various ethnobotanical plants is essential for scientifically validating their traditional applications in treating skin infections.
19) Margosa:
Margosa, or Azadirachta indica, is commonly known as neem and is revered in traditional medicine for its antibacterial and antifungal properties. Its application in tribal medicine highlights the importance of local flora in managing skin conditions and promoting health.
20) Ghaneri (Ghāṇērī, Ghāṇerī):
Ghaneri, or Lantana camara, is a plant known for its medicinal uses. In tribal contexts, it serves as a treatment for various skin ailments, illustrating how local flora contributes to traditional healing practices.
21) Mustard:
Mustard, referring to plants from the Brassica genus, is utilized in culinary practices and folk medicine. Its oil may serve as a medium for applying other medicinal herbs in the treatment of skin infections.
22) Camara (Cāmara, Camará):
Camara refers to the Lantana camara plant, which is often used in traditional medicine for its healing properties. Its application by tribal communities reflects the integration of local botany into their healthcare practices.
23) Botany:
Botany is the scientific study of plants, including their structure, properties, and biochemical processes. It is fundamental to understanding the medicinal properties of plants used traditionally by Indian tribes for treating skin infections.
24) Tumpa (Tumpā, Tūmpā):
Thumba, potentially referring to Thymus species, represents a plant associated with medicinal uses. It is regarded for its role in traditional healing practices, particularly in addressing ailments through natural means.
25) Aralu:
Aralu, or Terminalia chebula, also known as Haritaki, is recognized in traditional medicine for its therapeutic properties. This herb plays an essential role in various treatment modalities for skin ailments among tribal populations.
26) Nakra:
Nakra may refer to plants used in specific regional medicinal practices. Its significance points toward the diverse ethnobotanical knowledge among tribal communities relating to local flora.
27) Murga (Murgā):
Murga often signifies local plants utilized in folk medicine. In the context of ethnobotany, it represents the rich heritage of plant use and the cultural significance of these practices in managing health issues.
28) Ratti (Rattī):
Ratti relates to specific indigenous plants utilized for their healing properties. The ethnobotanical understanding of ratti within tribal systems showcases the connection between nature and traditional healthcare practices.
29) Water:
Water serves as an essential medium in the preparation and application of herbal remedies. It is critical in the extraction processes and subsequent use in treating ailments in traditional medicine practices.
30) Coral (Cōral):
Coral, while primarily known in marine biology, may refer metaphorically to plants with similar attributes. Its mention in ethnobotanical contexts could be linked to local understanding of beneficial properties from such natural resources.
31) Cina (Cīna, Cīnā, Ciṉa, Ciṉā, Cīṉā, Cinā):
China often denotes a geographic association with herbal knowledge or influences. The interplay between Chinese and Indian traditional medicine reflects the broader East Asian medicinal practices that involve extensive uses of local flora.
32) Kama (Kāmā, Kāma, Kamā):
Kama signifies a plant associated with traditional medicinal practices. Its application within ethnobotanical research highlights regional usage and ancestral knowledge surrounding healing properties.
33) Sara (Śāra, Shara, Sāra, Ṣaṟā):
Sara pertains to specific herbal practices in controlling skin ailments. It emphasizes the diversity of regional plant usage in treating health conditions based on indigenous knowledge.
34) Lata (Lāṭa, Latā):
Lata refers to climbing plants or vines evidenced in traditional medicine. Its mention in ethnobotanical studies reinforces the significance of various plant forms in local healing practices.
35) Ashan (Aśan, Āsan):
Asan, potentially referencing plants used for their health benefits, illustrates the vast range of ethnobotanical applications found within tribal healing systems, emphasizing the importance of local flora.
36) Neem:
Neem, known as Azadirachta indica, is a critical plant in traditional Indian medicine praised for its antibacterial properties. Its inclusion in tribal cures highlights the ongoing relevance of indigenous knowledge in modern health.
37) Mari (Mārī, Māri, Māṟi):
Mari signifies specific local plants considered beneficial in treating ailments. Its relevance lies in the ethnobotanical practices that illustrate cultural roots in using native flora for health empowerment.
38) Salt (Salty):
Salt, while primarily used for culinary purposes, also has medicinal properties and serves as a preservative in herbal applications. Its significance in traditional healing practices emphasizes the holistic approach of utilizing various natural substances.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Ethnobotany of medicinal plants for skin infections in Indian tribals.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Ayurveda, Healing properties, Indian system of medicine, Medicinal value, Experimental trial, Tribal medicine, Skin infection, Antimicrobial principles.