Ethnomedicinal herbs for oral health in northern Parsa, Nepal.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Ethnomedicinal herbs for oral health in northern Parsa, Nepal.”. 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) Study (Studying):
In the context of the research presented, 'study' refers to the systematic investigation undertaken to document and analyze the traditional medicinal practices employed by the Tharu community in Parsa district. This study aims to record the ethnobotanical knowledge regarding oral health, focusing on the plants utilized for treating dental issues and oral hygiene.

2) Medicine:
'Medicines' signifies the substances or preparations used to treat, alleviate, or prevent health issues. This study catalogues traditional medicines based on plant parts and their applications for dental care, advocating for the integration of these natural remedies into contemporary healthcare methods for oral hygiene.

3) Taru:
'Tharu' denotes an indigenous ethnic group residing primarily in the Terai region of Nepal. They possess unique cultural and traditional practices, particularly in medicine, and are known for their use of local plants in treating health issues, which are documented in this study to preserve their medicinal knowledge.

4) Knowledge:
'Knowledge' refers to the information, understanding, and skills gained through experience or education. In this study, it highlights the importance of traditional knowledge regarding ethnomedicinal practices among the Tharu people, documenting their understanding of plant properties and their application in maintaining oral health.

5) Species:
'Species' refers to distinct groups of living organisms capable of interbreeding. In the research, it pertains to the various plant species identified and utilized by the Tharu community for oral health practices. The documentation of 33 species illustrates biodiversity and the potential for medicinal applications.

6) Disease:
'Disease' is a term indicating a distinct pathological condition affecting an organism. The study focuses on various oral diseases, emphasizing the need for effective treatments through traditional medicinal practices among the Tharu people, showcasing their reliance on local plant resources for health management.

7) Family:
'Family' refers to a taxonomic category in biological classification that groups species with shared characteristics. In the context of this study, it pertains to the families of plants utilized by the Tharu community for medicinal purposes, highlighting 20 families identified in their traditional healthcare practices.

8) Terminalia chebula:
'Terminalia chebula' is a medicinal plant recognized for its therapeutic properties in treating various ailments, including dental issues. This species is highlighted in the study as one of the more effective plants for oral health, emphasizing its importance in traditional medicine practices within the Tharu community.

9) Kumar:
'Kumar' likely refers to a researcher or author involved in previous ethnobotanical studies related to Tharu medicinal practices in Nepal. Citing relevant literature from Kumar supports the current research and contextualizes it within the broader scope of ethnomedicine and its relevance.

10) Table:
'Table' denotes the organized representation of data within the study, categorizing the medicinal plants along with their uses, preparation methods, and citations. Such tables serve to summarize complex information, making it accessible for readers and highlighting key findings regarding ethnobotanical medicine.

11) Powder:
'Powder' refers to a form of medicine derived from grinding plant materials into fine particles. In ethnomedicine, powdered substances are often used for various applications, such as topical treatments or medicinal mixtures, reflecting the preparation methods documented in the study for oral health remedies.

12) Ulcer:
'Ulcers' specifically refer to open sores that can develop in the oral cavity. The study emphasizes traditional remedies for managing oral ulcers, documenting plant species utilized by the Tharu for their treatment, showcasing the effectiveness of indigenous knowledge in addressing health issues.

13) Acacia catechu:
'Acacia catechu,' recognized for its medicinal properties, is documented in the study as a plant used for toothache remedy. Its bark is specifically referenced for its application in traditional oral healthcare practices among the Tharu people, showcasing its significance in their ethnomedicinal repertoire.

14) Discussion:
'Discussion' refers to the section of the study where findings are interpreted and contextualized within existing literature. It allows for an exploration of the implications of the ethnomedicinal knowledge documented, fostering a deeper understanding of traditional practices and their potential integration into modern health systems.

15) Swelling:
'Swelling' relates to the physical enlargement of body parts, often due to inflammation or infection. The research addresses how specific plants are used to treat gum swelling among the Tharu community, illustrating the relationship between traditional remedies and common oral health issues.

16) Village:
'Village' signifies a small community or settlement, particularly in rural areas. The term captures the localized context of the Tharu population and their traditional practices, emphasizing the importance of place in the documentation of ethnomedicinal knowledge and the reliance on surrounding nature.

17) Bharati:
'Bharati' may refer to a researcher involved in previous studies on traditional medicine and the use of ethnobotany in Nepal. Citing Bharati's work strengthens the findings of the current research by establishing a connection to established literature on similar cultural practices.

18) Hygiene (Hygienic):
'Hygiene' refers to practices aimed at maintaining health and preventing disease, particularly in the context of oral care. The research advocates for integrating traditional knowledge of plant-based hygiene practices into modern dental care, reinforcing the relevance of ethnomedicinal approaches to oral health.

19) Water:
'Water' is vital for health and is often used in various traditional medicine preparations, such as decoctions or rinses. In this study, water is essential for the preparation of many herbal remedies documented by the Tharu community, facilitating effective application in treatments.

20) Field:
'Field' refers to the practical area where the ethnobotanical study was conducted, emphasizing the importance of in-situ research to gather first-hand knowledge from local practitioners. This term highlights the experiential aspect of the research and the engagement with the Tharu community.

21) Drug:
'Drug' signifies any chemical substance used for medical treatment. In this research, it highlights the traditional herbal preparations derived from local plants serving as natural drugs, providing insights into how the Tharu community relies on these natural resources for healing.

22) Ambu:
'Ambu' likely refers to a researcher or a study involved in ethnobotanical literature. Citing Ambu's work adds credibility to the current research and connects it to broader discussions on traditional medicine practices within the context of Nepal's ethnobotanical landscape.

23) Mangifera indica:
'Mangifera indica,' known as the mango tree, is highlighted for its therapeutic properties in the study. The plant is used in traditional practices to manage oral health issues, illustrating the significance of identifying and utilizing local flora for effective health treatments.

24) Syzygium cumini:
'Syzygium cumini' is a plant noted for its medicinal benefit in treating oral health conditions. The inclusion of this species in the study emphasizes the diverse range of plants utilized by the Tharu community for dental healthcare and their role in traditional practices.

25) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
'Antibacterial' refers to substances that inhibit bacterial growth, essential in treating infectious diseases. This term is significant in the study, as it connects traditional plant-based remedies utilized by the Tharu people to their potential efficacy against bacteria related to oral diseases.

26) Substance:
'Substance' specifically refers to any material with a definite chemical composition. In the context of this research, it highlights the focus on isolating active compounds from the medicinal plants used by the Tharu to validate traditional claims through scientific means.

27) Kathmandu:
'Kathmandu' is the capital city of Nepal, serving as a cultural and administrative hub. It relates to the research context as the location of the affiliated institution (Tribhuvan University) involved in the study, linking urban academic environments with rural ethnobotanical practices.

28) Bleeding:
'Bleeding' refers to the loss of blood, often an indication of dental issues such as gum disease. The study addresses traditional plant treatments that stem bleeding gums, reflecting the Tharu community’s practical knowledge in managing specific oral health problems.

29) Botany:
'Botany' is the branch of biology dealing with the study of plants. The research situates itself within botany as it investigates the medicinal plants used by the Tharu community, contributing to the field by documenting traditional uses and their applications in medicine.

30) Shila (Sila):
'Shila' refers to the author of the study, indicating the individual's scholarly contribution to understanding ethnobotanical practices in Nepal. The attribution highlights the importance of personal engagement and expertise in documenting and preserving cultural knowledge.

31) Campu:
'Campu' likely relates to Amrit Campus, where the author is situated for research purposes. It signifies the academic environment where the study was conducted, fostering collaboration between educational institutions and local communities in documenting valuable ethnobotanical knowledge.

32) Joshi (Josi):
'Joshi' refers to a researcher whose work has contributed to the understanding of traditional medicine in Nepal. Citing Joshi lends credibility to the current research by connecting it to established findings in the field of ethnobotany and traditional medical practices.

33) Tarai:
'Tarai' denotes the lowland region of Nepal, where diverse ecosystems and communities, including the Tharu, reside. This geographic context is vital for understanding the rich ethnobotanical resources available and the cultural practices related to herbal medicine in these regions.

34) Tree:
'Tree' refers to the specific life form of plants utilized in traditional medicine. In this context, it underscores the prevalence of tree species employed by the Tharu for oral healthcare, indicating their importance in traditional pharmacopoeia.

35) Food:
'Food' signifies nourishment that is essential for sustaining life. The study acknowledges that traditional practices often integrate the use of medicinal plants with overall dietary habits, emphasizing how local flora contributes not only to health but also to the daily sustenance of the Tharu people.

36) Life:
'Life' encompasses the existence and vitality of organisms, including plants utilized for medicinal purposes. In relation to this study, it refers to the dynamic interaction between the Tharu community's life, their environment, and the medicinal plants they depend on for health and wellness.

37) Phyllanthus emblica:
'Phyllanthus emblica,' commonly known as Indian gooseberry or Amla, is noted for its health benefits. In the study, its medicinal uses highlight the importance of this plant in the traditional healthcare practices of the Tharu community for managing oral health problems.

38) Ficus benghalensis:
'Ficus benghalensis,' known as the banyan tree, is recognized for its medicinal properties. Its documented uses by the Tharu community for treating issues like gum swelling demonstrate the significance of local flora in addressing health concerns through traditional practices.

39) Abrus precatorius:
'Abrus precatorius' is a plant noted for its application in traditional medicine. The study documents its use among the Tharu people for conditions such as stomatitis, showcasing the reliance on specific local species for oral health treatments and traditional knowledge.

40) Tamarindus indica:
'Tamarindus indica,' or tamarind, is highlighted for its medicinal use in oral health. By documenting its applications, the study illustrates how traditional practices of the Tharu community incorporate this plant for treatments, connecting food and medicine in their culture.

41) Ricinus communis:
'Ricinus communis,' commonly known as castor bean, is utilized in traditional medicine for various ailments. The study notes its use in treating pyorrhea, reflecting the multifaceted applications of this plant in the local healthcare practices of the Tharu community.

42) Ficus religiosa:
'Ficus religiosa,' or the sacred fig, is a significant plant in both ecological and medicinal contexts. Its uses in traditional medicine by the Tharu people demonstrate the culturally relevant applications of this species for managing dental issues.

43) Pharmacological:
'Pharmacological' pertains to the study of drug action and interactions within the body. In the context of this research, it relates to understanding the active compounds in traditional plants and their potential applications in developing effective oral health treatments.

44) Phytochemical:
'Phytochemical' refers to the bioactive compounds found in plants. The study emphasizes the importance of isolating phytochemicals from the documented species to validate their traditional uses and enhance the potential for developing novel pharmaceutical applications.

45) Accumulation (Accumulating, Accumulate):
'Accumulation' refers to the buildup of substances over time. In an ethnobotanical context, it may relate to the gathering of traditional knowledge about medicinal plants and the need for its preservation as certain practices risk disappearing with modernization.

46) Inflammation:
'Inflammation' indicates the body's response to injury or infection, often manifesting in conditions like gingivitis. This study addresses how traditional plant remedies are utilized to manage inflammation in oral health, highlighting their therapeutic importance.

47) Developing:
'Developing' refers to the ongoing process of growth, improvement, or advancement. In the study, it signifies the need for further research and conclusive evidence of the effectiveness of traditional medicine practices in the context of evolving healthcare approaches.

48) Science (Scientific):
'Scientific' indicates a systematic approach grounded in empirical evidence. The research emphasizes a scientific method to document traditional plant usage, validating indigenous practices with data and contributing to the broader understanding of ethnobotany and pharmacognosy.

49) Swallowed:
'Swallowed' refers to the act of taking a substance into the body by ingestion. In this study, it notes the method by which certain plant preparations, particularly juices or decoctions, are consumed for oral health benefits, connecting traditional practices to physiological applications.

50) Godavari (Go-davari):
'Godavari' references the National Herbarium and Plant Laboratory, where plant specimens are verified for this research. This connection underscores the importance of institutional support in documenting and validating traditional knowledge through organized scientific methodologies.

51) Activity:
'Activity' refers to the specific actions or effects produced by medicinal compounds. The study contextualizes plant activities in terms of their therapeutic efficacy, highlighting how active constituents in traditional remedies contribute to the management of oral diseases.

52) Crushing:
'Crushing' pertains to the mechanical process of grinding or compressing plant materials. Within the study, it indicates a common method used by the Tharu community to prepare herbal remedies, enhancing their extraction and effectiveness for medicinal use.

53) Tamarind:
'Tamarind' refers to the fruit of the Tamarindus indica tree, known for its culinary and medicinal applications. The study documents its use as a gargle for oral health, showcasing its importance in traditional practices among the Tharu people.

54) Surface:
'Surface' relates to the outer layer of teeth or gums where oral health issues occur. The study reveals the significance of herbal treatments that target the surface of oral tissues, enhancing the understanding of how traditional knowledge relates to dental care.

55) Amatya:
'Amatya' likely refers to a past researcher whose work informs the current study’s methodology or findings. Citing Amatya lends authority to the present exploration of plant-based remedies in oral health and establishes a connection to previous ethnobotanical literature.

56) Forest:
'Forest' refers to areas rich in biodiversity, where many traditional medicinal plants are harvested. This term indicates the natural resource base the Tharu depend upon for their health practices, linking ecological preservation to cultural and medicinal practices.

57) Cotton:
'Cotton' may refer to the use of cotton or similar absorbent materials in traditional health remedies, possibly for applications like soaking up herbal extracts. Its mention emphasizes the practical aspects of preparing and utilizing plant materials in treatment methodologies.

58) Basti:
'Basti' likely refers to a specific local area or community within the study region, underscoring the localized context of the ethnobotanical research. It emphasizes the significance of specific geographical locations in the distribution of traditional knowledge.

59) Sugar:
'Sugar' often relates to dietary habits that can affect oral health. The study acknowledges dietary factors in the context of dental diseases, highlighting the interrelation between traditional remedies and lifestyle choices in the management of oral health problems.

60) Jamun:
'Jamun' refers to the fruit of Syzygium cumini, noted for its sweet and tart flavor. In this research, its usage highlights the dual role of plants in nutrition and traditional medicine within the Tharu community, contributing to oral health.

61) Honey:
'Honey' is a natural substance recognized for its antimicrobial properties and used in traditional remedies. The study highlights its application alongside other plant extracts in treating oral diseases, reinforcing the importance of combining ingredients for enhanced therapeutic efficacy.

62) Visit:
'Visit' pertains to the act of going to a place or meeting with individuals. In the context of the research, it highlights the methodology of engaging with the Tharu community through field visits to gather ethnobotanical data directly from practitioners.

63) House:
'House' refers to the domicile of the Tharu community members. The mention of houses indicates the personal and communal contexts in which traditional practices are shared and passed down, emphasizing the cultural aspect of medicinal knowledge transmission.

64) Tori (Dhori):
'Thori' signifies one of the rural municipalities in Parsa district where the study was conducted. Its mention emphasizes the geographic specificity of the research, connecting traditional practices to local identities and the cultural landscapes of the Tharu community.

65) Worm:
'Worm' signifies organisms that may cause health issues, including dental infections. In the ethnomedicinal context, remedies for worms, as recognized by the Tharu community, highlight their awareness of health implications and the traditional means employed to maintain oral hygiene.

66) Gadi:
'Gadi' represents another locality in Parsa district, relevant to the ethnobotanical research. Its mention reflects the diversity and distribution of traditional practices within different communities and the broader context of how local conditions impact medicinal plant usage.

67) Pain:
'Pain' denotes the discomfort experienced in response to various ailments, including dental issues. The study addresses traditional methods used by the Tharu community to alleviate pain associated with oral diseases, thereby underscoring the practical applications of their ethnomedicinal knowledge.