A survey on medicinal plants used in skin diseases of children

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “A survey on medicinal plants used in skin diseases of children”. 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) Disease:
Diseases indicate a broader category of health conditions that can affect individuals, particularly children in this context. The research highlights multiple skin diseases treated by Tamil traditional physicians in Sri Lanka. Documenting these conditions is essential for preserving traditional medicinal practices and understanding their relevance in modern healthcare.

2) Lanka (Lamka, Lànkà):
Lanka, or Sri Lanka, is the geographical reference for the study. The island nation has a rich history of traditional medicine, particularly among Tamil communities in the Northern and Eastern provinces. The medicinal plants and treatments explored in the research are specific to this region, contributing to cultural heritage.

3) Tree:
Trees, particularly those identified in the survey, play a crucial role in providing medicinal plants for traditional remedies. The diversity of trees enhances the variety of treatments available to traditional physicians, reinforcing the significance of conservation.

4) Tamil:
Tamils refer to an ethnic group primarily residing in South India and Sri Lanka. The survey's focus on Tamil traditional medicine illustrates the cultural specificity and ethnobotanical significance of herbal treatments within this community's health practices.

5) Drug:
Drugs, here, refer to the various preparations derived from medicinal plants used to treat skin diseases. The research lists numerous plant species utilized by Tamil traditional physicians as effective remedies, underscoring the diversity of natural treatments available in traditional medicine.

6) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases. In the context of the survey, traditional medicine forms the basis of therapeutic practices among Tamil communities, emphasizing the value of plant-based remedies used in pediatric healthcare.

7) Indian:
Indian refers to the cultural and geographical context from which many medicinal practices are derived, including those in Sri Lanka. The influence of Indian traditional medicine on Tamil practices is significant, as it shares common roots with Siddha and Ayurveda, contributing to their holistic approaches.

8) Swelling:
Swelling describes a common symptom associated with many skin diseases, such as dermatitis. The study addresses how traditional remedies, including herbal pastes and decoctions, are utilized to alleviate swelling, showcasing the practical applications of traditional medicine in managing symptoms in children.

9) Knowledge:
Knowledge signifies the traditional wisdom and practices handed down through generations. The survey aims to document and preserve the herbal medicinal knowledge fading among Tamil traditional physicians, emphasizing the urgent need to record these valuable practices before they are lost.

10) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine emphasizing balance in bodily systems. While the survey focuses on Siddha medicine and practices in Tamil culture, Ayurveda's principles influence local practices, contributing to the shared heritage of traditional herbal remedies in the region.

11) Turmeric:
Turmeric, a common spice and medicinal herb, is frequently mentioned within the survey for its uses in skin treatments. Its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties make it a key ingredient in many herbal preparations utilized by Tamil traditional physicians.

12) Siddha:
Siddha is a traditional medical system originating from South India, closely associated with the Tamil culture. The survey highlights its relevance in treating children's skin diseases, showcasing the historical and cultural significance of Siddha knowledge in Sri Lanka’s healthcare practices.

13) Mandai:
Mandai refers to a specific form of skin disease treated using herbal applications. The survey identifies traditional remedies aimed at addressing Mandai, demonstrating the practical applications of local medicinal knowledge and the importance of understanding regional health conditions.

14) Water:
Water in this context is essential for preparing herbal decoctions and infusions using medicinal plants. Many traditional remedies require boiling or mixing herbs in water, showcasing its vital role in leeching out active constituents from plants for therapeutic purposes.

15) Family:
Family refers to the botanical classification of plants used in traditional remedies. Understanding the family structure of medicinal plants helps in identifying their common characteristics and therapeutic properties, aiding in the classification and usage of herbal treatments documented in the study.

16) Discussion:
Discussion indicates the analysis section of the survey, where results regarding the medicinal plants and their applications are critically evaluated. This section elaborates on the implications of findings for both traditional practices and modern scientific approaches to herbal medicine.

17) Leucoderma:
Leucoderma is a skin condition characterized by white patches resulting from loss of pigmentation. The survey mentions leucoderma as one of the conditions treated with herbal remedies, emphasizing the role of traditional medicine in addressing such skin disorders in children.

18) Gingelly (Gingelli):
Gingelly oil, derived from sesame seeds, is frequently used in traditional remedies for its therapeutic properties. The survey highlights its use as a base oil or carrier for herbal treatments, showcasing its complementarity with various medicinal plants in skin disease remedies.

19) Coconut (Cocoanut):
Coconut refers to the versatile tropical fruit whose oil is often used in traditional medicine. The survey may indicate its utilization in preparing herbal mixtures or topical applications, adding to its significance within the context of Tamil traditional healing practices.

20) Allergy:
Allergy encompasses adverse immune responses to certain allergens, often presenting as skin conditions. The survey examines herbal treatments aimed at alleviating allergic reactions in children, showcasing the effectiveness of local plants in managing allergic diseases.

21) Itching:
Itching is a common symptom associated with many skin diseases. The survey focuses on traditional remedies to relieve itching, highlighting the importance of these plant-based preparations in improving comfort and quality of life for affected children.

22) Powder:
Powder refers to the finely ground form of herbal preparations used in various applications. The survey highlights how powders derived from specific medicinal plants can be utilized for topical treatments or mixed with other ingredients to create effective remedies for skin conditions.

23) Table:
Table represents the organized presentation of data collected in the survey, detailing the medicinal plants used, their preparations, and uses. This structured format allows for easy comparison and understanding of the therapeutic applications of various herbal remedies in treating skin diseases.

24) Study (Studying):
Study refers to the systematic research conducted to document traditional medicinal practices. The survey aims to gather and record information about the plants used by Tamil traditional physicians, emphasizing the importance of research in preserving traditional knowledge.

25) Milk:
Milk, especially from the coconut, is often used in traditional medicine for its soothing properties. The survey may reference its incorporation into herbal treatments, illustrating how local food sources play a role in holistic health practices.

26) Terminalia chebula:
Terminalia chebula is a medicinal plant noted in the survey. Its therapeutic applications, especially in treating skin diseases, highlight the significance of specific herbal species utilized within Tamil traditional medicine, contributing to the diversity of treatments available.

27) Cynodon dactylon:
Cynodon dactylon, also known as Bermuda grass, is mentioned in the survey as significant for treating skin diseases. Its topical applications and known medicinal properties exemplify the diversity of plants incorporated into Tamil traditional healing practices.

28) Ocimum sanctum:
Ocimum sanctum, known as Holy Basil or Tulsi, is recognized in the study for its medicinal uses, particularly for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Its inclusion in herbal remedies showcases how culturally significant plants play a role in local healthcare.

29) Indigofera tinctoria:
Indigofera tinctoria, an important plant in the survey, is known for its dyeing and medicinal properties. Its use in traditional remedies illustrates the interconnection between cultural practices, health, and the environment within Tamil medicinal traditions.

30) Ficus religiosa:
Ficus religiosa, or the sacred fig, is indicated for its relevant medicinal attributes in the survey. Its classification within traditional medicine highlights the important role that sacred plants hold in both spiritual and practical aspects of health care.

31) Transmission:
Transmission pertains to the passing down of traditional knowledge through generations. The survey emphasizes the oral transmission methods of herbal practices among Tamil traditional physicians, underscoring the urgency to document and preserve this knowledge.

32) Surrounding:
Surrounding serves a similar context as surroundings, emphasizing the ecological and geographical aspects influencing the availability of medicinal plants. This highlights how the local environment directly impacts the traditional healing practices in Tamil communities.

33) Science (Scientific):
Scientific denotes the application of empirical methods to validate traditional practices. The survey expresses the need for further scientific research on the efficacy of the documented medicinal plants, bridging the gap between traditional wisdom and modern medical practices.

34) Education:
Education reflects the importance of knowledge dissemination regarding herbal medicine. The survey underscores the value of educating younger generations in traditional practices to ensure the continuity and preservation of medicinal knowledge in Tamil communities.

35) Training:
Training refers to the systematic preparation of individuals to understand and apply traditional medicinal practices. The survey identifies a need for training for younger generations to inherit and continue the practice of Tamil traditional medicine.

36) Language:
Language serves as a medium for communication of traditional medicinal knowledge. The study's interviews are conducted in the local dialect to preserve and convey the authentic practices of Tamil traditional medicine accurately.

37) Bleeding:
Bleeding is a critical symptom that requires effective interventions. Certain medicinal plants mentioned in the study function as astringents, aiding the management of bleeding wounds and underlining the traditional approaches to injuries in pediatric care.

38) Tamarind:
Tamarind is a plant observed for its utility in traditional remedies, particularly for skin conditions. Its sour properties and established medicinal uses showcase the rich diversity of plant-based treatments integrated into Tamil medicinal practices.

39) Margosa:
Margosa, or Neem, is widely recognized for its medicinal properties and is mentioned for its efficacy in treating skin diseases. This highlights the relevance of known plants in Tamil traditional medicine and their established historical significance.

40) Species:
Species denotes the different varieties of medicinal plants documented in the survey. Understanding various species aids in selecting appropriate herbs tailored for specific skin diseases, enriching the knowledge base of Tamil traditional medicine.

41) Vikkam:
Veekkam refers to a specific type of skin disease treated with herbal remedies. The survey indicates its inclusion among conditions addressed by Tamil traditional physicians, showcasing local medicinal approaches for pediatric skin ailments.

42) Jasmine:
Jasmine signifies a flowering plant known for its aromatic properties used in various herbal remedies. The inclusion of jasmine in traditional treatments reflects the integration of sensory elements into the healing practices within Tamil medicine.

43) Tanki (Tamki):
Thaangi describes a specific plant associated with traditional healing practices. The survey indicates plants like Anderographis echioides used for eczema treatment, showcasing localized knowledge concerning effective plants known to Tamil traditional physicians.

44) Kapala:
Kapala refers to a type of skin condition treated with traditional remedies. The survey addresses various holistic treatment approaches focused on local plants, including their application for Kapala in children, enhancing the understanding of dermatological issues.

45) Indigo:
Indigo refers to the dye produced from plants like Indigofera tinctoria, significant in both cultural and medicinal contexts. Its applications within traditional healing practices highlight the multifaceted nature of plant usage among Tamil traditional physicians.

46) Pillai:
Pillai signifies a term used in Tamil culture often referring to practitioners or knowledgeable figures within traditional practices. The survey recognizes the role of such individuals in preserving and transmitting herbal knowledge vital for community health.

47) Ulcer:
Ulcer highlights an area of inflamed or infected tissue that can occur in various parts of the body. The survey emphasizes the relevance of herbal treatments utilized by Tamil traditional physicians to manage ulcers effectively.

48) Pitta:
Pitta, a concept in traditional medicine, denotes a dosha or energy associated with heat and metabolism. The survey may discuss conditions such as pitta imbalance treated through herbal remedies, emphasizing holistic approaches within Tamil traditional practices.

49) Grama:
Grama signifies a village or locality, specifically within the Tamil context. The survey indicates that traditional medicinal practices are often community-centered, reflecting the roles of local groups in developing and promoting their herbal treatments.

50) India:
India represents the broader geographic and cultural framework influencing traditional medicine in Sri Lanka. The historical interplay between Indian and Tamil healing practices enriches the understanding of local medicinal approaches used to treat various conditions.

51) Jambu:
Jambu refers to the jambu tree, known for its medicinal properties. Its mention in the survey highlights the role of commonly found trees in local herbal practices, demonstrating the cultural significance of utilizing local flora for health.

52) Nelli:
Nelli refers to a plant with recognized dietary and medicinal uses. Its incorporation in traditional remedies underscores the importance of plants found locally within the Tamil healing repertoire for addressing skin diseases effectively.

53) Sugar:
Sugar indicates a common sweetening agent, potentially used in herbal preparations. Within traditional medicine, sugar may be used in various mixtures to enhance palatability or combine with herbal treatments, illustrating its significance in holistic healing.

54) Camel:
Camel denotes a species traditionally regarded in certain cultures for its utility and significance. In the context of traditional medicine, certain animal-based products may be referenced for their medicinal applications, emphasizing multi-faceted sources of therapies.

55) Pulu:
Puzhu refers to a type of skin condition that may be treated with herbal remedies. The survey includes methods and plant origins specifically aimed at addressing conditions classified as Puzhu among pediatric patients.

56) Coral:
Coral can refer to a marine organism with applications in traditional medicine, showcasing the diversity of treatment sources. Salts or extracts from certain corals may be used for their health benefits within local practices.

57) Sida (Shida):
Sida refers to a genus of flowering plants known for their medicinal utilities. The survey indicates various Sida species are utilized in traditional medicine, highlighting the significance of locally sourced plants in treatment protocols.

58) Lata:
Lata signifies vines or climbing plants often used in traditional medicinal practices. Various species may possess unique healing properties, expanding the range of plant-based remedies available in Tamil traditional medicine.

59) Kadi:
Kadi signifies another type of skin condition specifically treated through herbal remedies. The survey discusses diverse methods of applying local plants to address conditions referred to as Kadi, indicating the versatility within traditional treatments.

60) Puli:
Puli is often associated with tamarind, known for its culinary and medicinal uses. Its mention in the survey highlights the intersection between dietary practices and herbal medicine in Tamil culture.

61) Rich (Rch):
Rich indicates the abundance of traditional knowledge and resources within Tamil communities. The survey seeks to document and preserve this rich heritage of medicinal practices to sustain future generations of herbal healers.

62) Fire:
Fire denotes a method of preparing herbal remedies, such as decocting plants. The traditional practices often involve using heat to extract beneficial components, emphasizing the importance of specific preparation methods in achieving effective treatments.

63) Ghi (Ghee):
Ghee, or clarified butter, is recognized for its nourishing and therapeutic qualities. In traditional medicine, ghee may act as a base for various herbal preparations, showcasing its multifaceted applications in Tamil healing practices.

64) Worm:
Worm refers to parasitic or skin-related issues that may be treated through herbal remedies. The survey addresses how traditional medicine effectively tackles such conditions, highlighting the importance of plant-based solutions in local healthcare.

65) Burning (Burn, Burned, Burnt):
Burn refers to a type of skin injury that can be treated with appropriate herbal remedies. The survey identifies methods for treating burns from the rich repertoire of Tamil medicinal practices to optimize recovery and care.

66) Male:
Male denotes the gender of the traditional healers interviewed in the survey. Understanding the demographics of practitioners is vital for contextualizing the transmission of knowledge, highlighting the role of gender within traditional medical practices.