Karbis of Assam: Ichthyofauna in traditional health care practices
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Ethnozoology of the Karbis of Assam, India: Use of ichthyofauna in traditional health-care practices
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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Valentina Teronpi, H. T. Singh, A. K. Tamuli, Robindra Teron
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Ethnozoology of the Karbis of Assam, India: Use of ichthyofauna in traditional health-care practices
Year: 2012
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Traditional medicine remains a vital source of primary health care among the Karbi community of Assam, India. This study aims to explore the use of ichthyofauna, or fish species, in their traditional health-care practices, which are deeply intertwined with their culture and religious beliefs. The World Health Organization states that a significant portion of the global population, especially in African and Asian regions, relies on traditional medicine, which sometimes includes animal-derived products. The Karbis, an indigenous tribe, maintain rich cultural practices that involve zootherapy, particularly through the ritual and therapeutic use of fish, despite facing modern challenges that threaten these traditions.
Use of Fish in Traditional Health-Care Practices
The study highlighted the use of 14 fish species from different families to treat 25 ailments among the Karbis, demonstrating the significance of fish in their health practices. Fish are utilized not only for their nutritional value but also in various rituals and remedies, such as in the traditional treatment of mental depression-like symptoms referred to as "nihu kachingtung." This involves a ritual where maternal uncles offer rice and fish to the afflicted person as an act of healing. In addition, the Karbis conduct rituals that incorporate fish offerings to their deities, underscoring the spiritual dimension of their health-care practices. These practices showcase the community's innovative approach to health that integrates cultural, religious, and medicinal elements.
Conclusion
While traditional health-care practices, including the use of ichthyofauna, are integral to the Karbi identity and society, they are increasingly threatened by modern attitudes toward medicine, as well as destructive fishing practices harming local aquatic ecosystems. The study suggests that there is potential for discovering new therapeutic compounds through continued research on fish-based zootherapy. However, a balanced approach involving both traditional and modern methods is essential for preserving cultural heritage and ensuring the sustainable management of natural resources. Recognizing and valuing indigenous practices can lead to better ecological and health outcomes for communities like the Karbis.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the focus of the study on Karbi traditional medicine?
The study discusses the use of ichthyofauna in traditional health-care practices among the Karbis and examines the socio-cultural significance of traditional medicine in their community.
How many fish species are documented in the study?
The study recorded the use of 14 fish species belonging to seven families for treating 25 medical conditions within the traditional health-care practices of the Karbis.
What is 'nihu kachingtung' in Karbi culture?
'Nihu kachingtung' refers to mental depression-like conditions attributed to the maternal uncle, and rituals involving dried fish are performed for the affected person's recovery, showing deep cultural significance.
What challenges face traditional health-care practices in Karbi society?
Modern attitudes toward traditional medicine as unscientific, coupled with acculturation and destructive fishing practices, threaten the continuation of traditional health-care methods among the Karbis.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Karbis of Assam: Ichthyofauna in traditional health care practices’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Field study, Traditional health care practices, Traditional medicine practice, Ethnozoology of the Karbis, Ichthyofauna in traditional health-care, Karbis of Assam, Zootherapy in traditional medicine, Nihu kachingtung, Socially defined conditions, Traditional religion of the Karbis, Therapies and rituals, Karbi Anglong district, Customary use of fish, Incantation of holy verses, Destructive fishing practices, Cultural dependence on traditional medicine, Prevalent traditional medicine, Customary practices in rituals.