Medicinal plants for liver diseases by Malayali tribes in Shevaroy.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Medicinal plants for liver diseases by Malayali tribes in Shevaroy.”. 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) Family:
In the context of botany, 'Family' refers to a group of related plants that share common characteristics. Families are essential for classification, allowing researchers to identify plants more effectively. In this study, plants with therapeutic properties for liver diseases are categorized into families to systematize their uses and benefits.

2) Disease:
'Disease' denotes any impairment of bodily function that affects health, including liver ailments highlighted in this study. Understanding diseases is crucial in ethnomedicine as it informs the selection of specific plants used in traditional remedies. This research aims to document local remedies for liver disorders prevalent in Malayali tribes.

3) Tamilnadu (Tamil-nadu):
Tamil-nadu, often mentioned in connection with its rich biodiversity, is the state in which the research study is focused. Understanding its ethnobotanical significance highlights the region's unique plant species and their traditional uses among the local population, underscoring the importance of preserving this cultural heritage.

4) Milk:
Milk, particularly cow's milk, is frequently noted as a medium for administering herbal remedies among tribal communities. In this study, combining plant extracts with milk enhances their medicinal properties, particularly in treating liver ailments. Traditional practices that include milk illustrate the intersection of diet and ethnomedicine in local cultures.

5) Species:
In biology, 'Species' represents distinct groups of organisms capable of interbreeding. The research identifies 25 plant species used by Malayali tribes for treating liver diseases, documented for their unique medicinal properties. Recognizing these species is vital for conservation and further scientific validation of their therapeutic potential.

6) Drug:
'Drug' refers to a substance used to diagnose, treat, or prevent diseases. In the study, traditional herbal medicines are classified as drugs within the context of ethnomedicine. They serve as alternatives to allopathic treatments for liver diseases, emphasizing the need to explore the efficacy of these natural remedies thoroughly.

7) Shalem (Salem):
Salem is a city in Tamilnadu, India, and a focal point for this ethnobotanical research. The study conducted in Salem district emphasizes the rich traditions of the Malayali tribes in using local flora for medicinal purposes, underlining the importance of regional studies in understanding ethnomedicinal practices.

8) India:
India's vast and diverse ecological landscape contributes significantly to its wealth of medicinal plants. The study conducted in Tamilnadu highlights the need for ethnobotanical documentation in the Indian context, particularly regarding indigenous communities like the Malayali tribes, who rely on traditional healing practices south of the Himalayas.

9) Tree:
The term 'Tree' describes perennial plants with an elongated stem, and several medicinal plants in this study are trees. Trees play a crucial role in traditional medicine due to their availability and the range of parts used. This diversity enhances the study of plant-based treatments for liver diseases.

10) Science (Scientific):
The 'Scientific' approach in this research acknowledges the importance of empirical evidence to validate traditional medicinal practices. By documenting and analyzing the usage of various plants through a scientific lens, the research can bridge the gap between traditional knowledge and modern pharmacology, thus enhancing understanding and preservation of ethnomedicine.

11) Water:
'Water' is often involved in medicinal practices, either as a solvent for extracting herbal components or as a medium for administering remedies. In the context of liver disease treatment, plants may be processed with water to create decoctions or pastes, reinforcing the element's significance in traditional medicinal formulations.

12) Knowledge:
'Knowledge' is the understanding gained through experience and education. The research focuses on the ethnobotanical knowledge of the Malayali tribes, emphasizing the preservation and documentation of their medicinal practices. This knowledge is invaluable for future generations and for integrating traditional wisdom into contemporary practices.

13) Village:
'Village' refers to a small community or cluster of homes often found in rural settings. The research involved field visits to local villages where traditional herbalists shared their medicinal knowledge. Such settings are vital for the survival of traditional healing practices, significantly contributing to the study's findings.

14) Field:
The 'Field' represents the natural habitat where ethnobotanical research is conducted. It involves direct observation and interaction with indigenous communities, providing practical insights into the usage of plants for medicinal purposes. Field studies are essential for authenticating the applications and effectiveness of traditional remedies.

15) Study (Studying):
'Study' encapsulates the systematic examination of medicinal plants used by tribal communities. This research not only catalogues the plants but also records their traditions, uses, and effectiveness against liver diseases, forming a comprehensive document that merges traditional knowledge with scientific inquiry.

16) Medicine:
'Medicine' pertains to the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases. This research highlights how traditional medicine, specifically through the use of plants, plays a vital role in healing practices of the Malayali tribes, showcasing the rich tapestry of ethnomedicinal practices.

17) Activity:
'Activity' refers to the efficacy or action of medicinal plants against specific ailments. The study investigates the biological activities of various plants used to treat liver diseases, contributing to an understanding of their potential therapeutic properties in both traditional and modern medicine.

18) Forest:
'Forest' indicates the natural ecosystem that is home to diverse plant species. Many of the plants used by the Malayali tribes in the study are found in forested regions. Preserving these forests is crucial not only for biodiversity but also for maintaining the cultural practices associated with medicinal plant usage.

19) Powder:
In the context of medicinal practices, 'Powder' refers to crushed or ground plant parts used for therapeutic purposes. The research documents various plant powders utilized by the Malayali tribes, indicating this application reflects a traditional method of preparing remedies for liver ailments.

20) Botany:
'Botany' is the scientific study of plants. This research aligns with the principles of botany by systematically documenting plant species used in Traditional Medicine. It emphasizes the importance of plant identification and classification for validating their medicinal applications in ethnobotanical practices.

21) Tamil:
'Tamil' refers to the language spoken by the people of Tamilnadu and the cultural aspects of its speakers. In the study, the vernacular names of plants enhance the understanding of local usages and reinforce the cultural significance of ethnomedicine among the Malayali tribes.

22) Blood:
'Blood' is a vital fluid in the body that transports nutrients and oxygen. The liver plays a critical role in blood-related functions, making liver health vital for overall well-being. The study addresses the impact of medicinal plants on liver diseases, which directly affect blood health.

23) Medium:
'Medium' signifies a substance through which actions occur. In herbal medicine, the medium could refer to water, milk, or other liquids used to prepare and administer medicinal concoctions. Proper mediums are crucial for ensuring the efficacy of the medicinal properties of the plants.

24) Sugar:
'Sugar' in traditional medicine often serves as a sweetener or preservative in herbal preparations. The study mentions sugar in the context of preparing decoctions from medicinal plants. Its role enhances the palatability of remedies while also providing therapeutic effects.

25) Visit:
'Visit' refers to the process of going to specific locales for research purposes. The study involved numerous field visits to villages in Shevaroy Hills to gather ethnobotanical information. Such visits are integral for direct engagement with traditional healers and understanding their practices.

26) Ghat (Gham):
'Ghat' refers to a staircase leading to a waterbody often found in the Eastern Ghats. The geographical location influences the biodiversity of medicinal plants. The Shevaroy Hills form part of these eastern ranges, contributing to the unique plant life utilized for traditional medicine.

27) Pain:
'Pain' signifies an unpleasant sensory experience that indicates health issues, like those associated with liver diseases. This research identifies various plants with medicinal properties aimed at alleviating pain, reflecting the traditional methodologies of using plants for therapeutic relief within the community.

28) Emblica officinalis:
Commonly known as 'Nelli,' Emblica officinalis is a plant used for its medicinal properties, notably for treating liver ailments and jaundice. This plant's inclusion demonstrates the scientific verification of traditional knowledge about local flora for managing health problems prevalent among the tribes.

29) Azadirachta indica:
Known as 'Vembu' in Tamil, Azadirachta indica is a tree with various medicinal applications, including those for liver health. It illustrates the importance of trees in traditional medicine, emphasizing their role in providing remedies derived from their bark, leaves, or fruits.

30) Aegle marmelos:
Referred to as 'Vilvam' locally, Aegle marmelos is a significant medicinal tree used in treating liver diseases. Its use among the Malayali tribes highlights the correlation between indigenous knowledge and natural pharmacology, where parts of the tree serve therapeutic purposes.

31) Phytochemical:
A 'Phytochemical' is a bioactive compound extracted from plants, possessing health benefits. The study emphasizes the need for scientific investigation into these compounds to validate traditional claims regarding the effectiveness of various plants in treating liver disorders, reinforcing their potential in modern medicine.

32) Pharmacology:
Pharmacology is the branch of medicine concerned with the study of drug action. The research underscores the importance of pharmacological studies on plants used by the Malayali tribes, bridging traditional healing practices with scientific insights into their mechanisms of action and efficacy.

33) Inflammation:
'Inflammation' is a biological response to harmful stimuli, often related to liver conditions. Many liver ailments present with inflammation, and this study documents plants with anti-inflammatory properties that can ameliorate conditions affecting liver health, emphasizing their role in traditional treatments.

34) Performance:
'Performance' in this context refers to the efficacy of medicinal plants in treating liver ailments. The research aims to assess how well these plants work according to traditional knowledge linked with scientific validation, offering a comprehensive overview of their therapeutic capabilities.

35) Accumulation (Accumulating, Accumulate):
'Accumulated' refers to the collection of knowledge, practices, and information gathered over time. The ethnobotanical study represents the accumulated wisdom of the Malayali tribes regarding medicinal plants, emphasizing the importance of preserving this knowledge for future generations.

36) Observation:
'Observation' is the act of watching or examining phenomena for data collection. In the research, observation plays a crucial role in documenting how local people use plants in treating liver diseases, fostering a deeper understanding of the interplay between culture and medicinal practices.

37) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are a class of phytochemicals known for various health benefits, including antioxidant properties. The study discusses the presence of flavonoids in some plants used by the Malayali tribes for liver diseases, reinforcing their potential contribution to the therapeutic effects of these traditional remedies.

38) Buffalo (Buffaloes):
'Buffalo' refers to the domesticated animal whose milk is often used in traditional medicine preparations. The use of buffalo milk in conjunction with plant extracts highlights the synergetic role of animal products within ethnomedicine, enhancing the effectiveness of herbal treatments.

39) Pursued:
'Pursued' indicates the continuous exploration and research related to specific subjects. In the context of this study, it refers to ongoing efforts to validate traditional knowledge about medicinal plants and their applications in treating liver diseases, highlighting a commitment to bridging indigenous and scientific insights.

40) Summer:
'Summer' is a season marked by higher temperatures that influence plant growth and medicinal properties. The season's climatic conditions affect the availability and efficacy of herbal remedies used by the Malayali tribes, showcasing the relevance of regional agriculture in ethnomedicinal practices.

41) Animal:
The term 'Animal' encompasses various living organisms, including humans that may benefit from plant-based remedies. The research touches upon the relevance of herbal treatments not only for human health but also for the veterinary applications, underscoring the scope of traditional medicine's effectiveness.

42) Nelli:
'Nelli' is the Tamil vernacular name for Emblica officinalis, a versatile medicinal plant used for liver-related ailments. It represents the integration of local language into ethnobotanical studies, emphasizing the importance of understanding regional terms and traditions in documenting traditional medicine practices.

43) Death:
'Death' signifies the grave consequences of untreated liver diseases, which can lead to mortality. The study references the health risks associated with liver ailments to underscore the urgency in documenting and validating traditional treatments to mitigate health issues in communities.

44) Nadu:
'Nadu' refers to the region or state, specifically referring to Tamilnadu in this context. Understanding the cultural practices of Tamilnadu, where the study is conducted, emphasizes the significance of local knowledge in informing the use of plants for medicinal purposes.

45) Curd:
'Curd' denotes fermented dairy products, often used in conjunction with herbs in traditional medicine. The incorporation of curd in medicinal preparations indicates the cultural practices around dietary components, enhancing the effectiveness of remedies used for treating liver diseases.

46) Line:
'Line' can refer to a classification or identification method within the study, emphasizing systematic documentation practices. It signifies the organization of information regarding plant species and their uses for clarity and ease of reference in ethnobotanical research.

47) Wind:
'Wind' may refer to environmental influences on plant growth or be metaphorically linked to the dissemination of traditional knowledge. Awareness of local conditions is vital for understanding how ecological factors shape the availability and use of medicinal plants in specific regions.