Traditional medicines and health care from the flora and fauna of manipur

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Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Traditional medicines and health care from the flora and fauna of manipur
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Original source:

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Author:

Dr. S. Shyamkiran Singh


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Traditional medicines and health care from the flora and fauna of manipur

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20209-18377


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Manipur, located in Northeastern India, is characterized by its rich biodiversity, featuring a wide array of flora and fauna. This richness has fostered an extensive tradition of ethno-medicinal practices among various ethnic communities within the state. The paper by Dr. S. Shyamkiran Singh documents this traditional knowledge, emphasizing the relevance of local medicinal plants and animal products for treating ailments. It outlines the connection between indigenous health practices and modern healthcare systems, noting that many people within Manipur still prefer herbal remedies over conventional pharmaceuticals.

Indigenous Knowledge of Medicinal Plants

One of the significant highlights of the study is the documentation of 66 medicinal plant species used by the people of Manipur. These plants are employed to treat various health issues, ranging from respiratory problems and digestive disorders to skin conditions and chronic ailments. The author emphasizes that traditional medicine encompasses the use of local flora, which is often complemented by specific cultural rituals conducted by local practitioners known as Amaiba or Amaibi. This indigenous knowledge not only addresses healthcare needs but also plays an essential role in the sustainable livelihood of the communities.

Traditional Use of Animal Products

In addition to plants, the research identifies 20 animal species utilized for their medicinal properties, a concept that underscores the diverse sources of traditional remedies available in Manipur. Animal products, such as the fat of pythons and bears, are used for treating conditions like rheumatism, burns, and wounds. The study notes that communities have their unique practices and beliefs surrounding the use of these animal-based medicines, which are typically prescribed in conjunction with herbal remedies, showcasing a holistic approach to health.

Preservation of Traditional Practices

The study also addresses the critical issue of the erosion of traditional medicinal knowledge in Manipur. With a shifting focus toward modern medicine among the younger generation, many traditional practices are at risk of fading away. This decline is exacerbated by over-extraction of medicinal resources, resulting in diminished availability of valuable plant and animal species. The paper calls for increased awareness and governmental support to preserve these traditional practices, highlighting their importance for community health and cultural heritage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Singh's study reveals that the flora and fauna of Manipur offer vital resources for healing and health, encapsulating a wealth of traditional knowledge that has been passed down through generations. The findings highlight the potential of traditional medicines as viable alternatives or complements to modern healthcare. However, there is an urgent need to promote and preserve this indigenous knowledge system to ensure its sustainability and continued relevance in contemporary health practices. Engaging the community and involving government support will be critical in revitalizing and maintaining the rich heritage of traditional healthcare in Manipur.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the main focus of Dr. S. Shyamkiran Singh's research?

The main focus is documenting traditional ethno-medicinal knowledge of flora and fauna in Manipur, highlighting their uses in health care practices and their significance in sustainable livelihoods.

How many species of plants and animals are documented in the study?

The study lists sixty-six species of plants and twenty species of animals, along with their medicinal uses for various ailments.

What role does traditional medicine play in Manipur's healthcare system?

Traditional medicine is crucial for health in Manipur, with various ethnic groups relying on local practitioners and herbal treatments, even amidst modern medical practices.

What are some common ailments treated using traditional medicine in Manipur?

Common ailments include cough, fever, skin problems, digestive issues, asthma, and rheumatic pain, treated with locally sourced herbs and animal products.

What challenges are faced in preserving traditional medicinal knowledge in Manipur?

Challenges include declining belief in traditional practices among the younger generation, illegal extraction of resources, and loss of biodiversity affecting plant and animal availability.

What steps are suggested for preserving traditional health care systems in Manipur?

The study suggests government attention and public awareness campaigns to support traditional health care practices and ensure their survival for future generations.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Traditional medicines and health care from the flora and fauna of manipur”. 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) Animal:
Animals are multicellular, eukaryotic organisms that play a vital role in various ecosystems. In Manipur's traditional medicine, several species are used for their therapeutic properties, including their fats and extracts utilized to treat a range of ailments prevalent among indigenous populations.

2) Medicine:
Medicines are substances used for treating and preventing diseases. The study emphasizes the significance of both plant-based and animal-derived medicines in Manipur's traditional health care, underscoring their pivotal role in promoting well-being and treating common health issues in local populations.

3) Fever:
Fever is a common medical condition characterized by an elevated body temperature, often indicative of an underlying infection or illness. Traditional medicine in Manipur includes various herbal treatments aimed at reducing fever, showcasing the locals' reliance on natural therapies for common health issues.

4) Forest:
Forests are critical ecosystems that provide habitat for a diversity of flora and fauna. The forests of Manipur are essential for developing traditional medicine, as they harbor many medicinal plants that local communities utilize for healthcare solutions.

5) Knowledge:
Knowledge refers to information, understanding, or skills acquired through experience or education. In the context of traditional medicine, the indigenous knowledge passed down through generations about the uses of local flora and fauna is critical for effective health care in Manipur.

6) Pain:
Pain is an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience often signaling injury or illness. Traditional medicinal practices in Manipur provide remedies from plants and animal products specifically designed to alleviate various types of pain, showcasing the integration of cultural practices with health solutions.

7) Species:
Species refer to groups of organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring. In traditional medicine, variations in species of plants and animals found in Manipur are vital, as each possesses unique properties and applications for managing health conditions recognized by indigenous healers.

8) Hair:
Hair is a filamentous biomaterial found on the bodies of mammals. Certain plants and animal products in Manipur's traditional medicine are utilized for treating hair-related issues, such as promoting growth or addressing hair loss, representing the diverse applications of local resources.

9) Tree:
Trees are critical components of ecosystems that provide resources and shelter. In the context of traditional health care, various tree species in Manipur are utilized for their medicinal properties, illustrating how local biodiversity is crucial for indigenous healing practices.

10) Burning (Burn, Burned, Burnt):
Burns are injuries to the skin caused by heat, chemicals, or radiation. Traditional medicine practices in Manipur often include the application of plant-derived substances to soothe and heal burn wounds, emphasizing local knowledge of effective remediative strategies.

11) Habitat:
Habitats are the natural environments where organisms reside and interact. In the context of traditional medicine, the preservation of diverse habitats is essential for sustaining the plant and animal species that local healers rely upon for their treatments.

12) Indian:
Indian pertains to anything related to India, a country known for its cultural and ethnic diversity. In the context of this study, it highlights the importance of indigenous knowledge derived from various ethnic groups in Manipur for traditional healing practices in Indian society.

13) Study (Studying):
Study refers to the pursuit of knowledge or understanding through research and analysis. This research paper investigates the traditional medicinal uses of local flora and fauna in Manipur, documenting Indigenous practices and their significance to health care systems.

14) Worm:
Worms are elongated, soft-bodied invertebrates. Some species, particularly those utilized in traditional medicine, are noted for their therapeutic properties. In Manipur, various worms may be used in treatments for ailments, showcasing the breadth of local medicinal knowledge.

15) Tuberculosis:
Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious infectious disease primarily affecting the lungs. Traditional medicine in Manipur utilizes specific herbal remedies to support respiratory health and may include treatments aimed at alleviating symptoms associated with TB, emphasizing the integrated medical knowledge of local healers.

16) Science (Scientific):
Scientific denotes an approach to understanding the natural world through systematic observation and experimentation. The research paper bridges traditional knowledge with scientific observation, giving credibility and recognition to indigenous practices that may complement modern healthcare in Manipur.

17) Disease:
Disease refers to a departure from normal physiological function. The discussion highlights how traditional practices in Manipur have provided remedies for various diseases through the use of natural resources, illustrating the adaptability and effectiveness of indigenous healthcare methodologies.

18) Valley:
Valley refers to a low area between hills or mountains, often containing rivers and rich biodiversity. In Manipur, valleys are home to various medicinal plants and communities that rely on traditional knowledge and resources, contributing to the region's healthcare practices.

19) Table:
Table refers to a systematic arrangement of data, often used for easy reference. In this study, tables are used to present a comprehensive list of plants and animals, their scientific classifications, local names, and their medicinal uses, providing valuable information for understanding traditional medicine.

20) Mana:
Mana refers to the concept of spiritual power or energy in some cultures. In the context of Manipur's traditional practices, it highlights the belief that certain plants and animals possess inherent power, engaging not just physical but also spiritual aspects of healing.

21) Mani:
Mani is often associated with certain geographical or cultural references in India. Within the study of Manipur's traditional medicine, 'Manipuri' can refer to the unique practices and indigenous herbal knowledge distinct to the people of Manipur, influencing local health care systems.

22) Fish:
Fish are aquatic, gill-bearing creatures. In traditional medicine, specific fish species are utilized for their therapeutic properties, highlighting the diverse sources of remedies available to Manipur's indigenous healers, who often incorporate various animal products into their treatments.

23) Rich (Rch):
Rich refers to an abundance of resources or wealth. Manipur is rich in biodiversity, particularly in medicinal plants and animals, which provide critical healthcare resources for local populations, reflecting the significance of biodiversity in sustaining traditional medicine methods.

24) Milk:
Milk is a nutritional liquid produced by mammals. In the context of traditional medicine, particular animal milks are used for various therapeutic purposes in Manipur, illustrating the diverse applications of animal products in local healthcare practices.

25) Lily:
Lily refers to a type of flowering plant that often has medicinal properties. In Manipur’s traditional medicine, some lily species may be utilized for their health benefits, thereby enhancing the repertoire of plant-based remedies available to local healers.

26) Snake-bite:
Snake-bite refers to injuries inflicted by snake fangs, which can be life-threatening. Traditional medicine in Manipur includes specific remedies for snake-bite treatment, utilizing local herbal knowledge to provide immediate care and counteract the effects of venom.

27) Pigeon:
Pigeons, members of the bird family Columbidae, are often found in both wild and domestic environments. In traditional medicine, pigeon-related practices in Manipur can be associated with specific health remedies or cultural rituals aimed at promoting well-being.

28) India:
India is a South Asian country known for its diverse cultures, languages, and ecosystems. The context of traditional medicine in India, particularly in Manipur, reflects the rich tapestry of indigenous health practices that utilize local biodiversity for medicinal purposes.

29) Ulcer:
An ulcer is a sore that develops on the skin, lining of the stomach, or other tissues. Traditional medicine includes herbal treatments aimed at healing ulcers, emphasizing the reliance on local flora for health solutions in Manipur.

30) Tiger:
The tiger is a large wild cat species and holds significant cultural and ecological importance. In traditional medicine, the use of tiger parts is often linked to belief systems surrounding strength and healing, but also raises conservation concerns, reflecting the intersection of culture and medicine.

31) Earth:
Earth refers to the planet and is often associated with nature and natural resources. In the context of traditional medicine in Manipur, the earth's resources, such as plants and soil, are vital for extracting medicinal components utilized in healing practices.

32) Blood:
Blood is the fluid that circulates in the bodies of animals and humans. In traditional medicine, many remedies target blood-related disorders or utilize components that claim to purify or enhance the quality of blood, showcasing the interplay between local beliefs and health practices.

33) Fire:
Fire is a natural element associated with heat and light. In traditional practices, fire may be used for rituals or as a means of preparing herbal medicines, illustrating the multifaceted role of fire in both cultural and medicinal contexts.

34) Azadirachta indica:
Azadirachta indica, commonly known as neem, is a tree with significant medicinal properties. In traditional medicine, neem is revered for its antiseptic, antifungal, and antidiabetic effects, indicating its importance in local healthcare practices in Manipur.

35) Nelumbo nucifera:
Nelumbo nucifera, known as the lotus, is a flowering plant prized for its beauty and medicinal applications. Traditional medicine in Manipur utilizes lotus for various health benefits, reflecting its cultural significance and therapeutic potential in treating ailments.

36) Emblic myrobalan:
Emblic myrobalan, or Phyllanthus emblica, is a fruit-bearing tree noted for its high vitamin C content and various health benefits. In traditional medicine, it’s used for its antioxidant properties and overall health support, highlighting the value of local flora.

37) Adhatoda vasica:
Adhatoda vasica, known as Malabar nut, is a plant used in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties, particularly for treating respiratory ailments. This highlights how traditional knowledge recognizes specific plants for their efficacy in managing health conditions prevalent among communities.

38) Eastern India:
Eastern India encompasses several states, including Manipur, famed for its cultural and biodiversity rich landscapes. Traditional medicinal practices in this region utilize local flora and fauna, demonstrating how geographical context influences health care approaches and methods.

39) Piper longum:
Piper longum, or long pepper, is a plant valued for its medicinal properties. Traditionally used to enhance digestion and respiratory health, it showcases the diversity of therapeutic plants available in Manipur’s indigenous medical practices.

40) Wild boar:
The wild boar is a versatile omnivore found in forests and grasslands. In traditional medicine, parts of the wild boar may be used for various therapeutic purposes, illustrating the adaptability of local health practices in utilizing available animal resources.

41) Tamarindus indica:
Tamarindus indica, commonly known as tamarind, is a tree whose fruits are used extensively in traditional medicine. Tamaraind has multiple uses for digestive health and other ailments, emphasizing the importance of local agricultural produce in health care systems.

42) Oroxylum indicum:
Oroxylum indicum, or the broken bone plant, is known for its medicinal properties. Traditional practices in Manipur utilize its parts to treat bone-related issues, underscoring the significance of specific plants in addressing localized health concerns.

43) Acorus calamus:
Acorus calamus, commonly known as sweet flag, is recognized for its medicinal qualities. In traditional medicine, this plant is utilized for respiratory issues, exemplifying how local flora is harnessed to deal with common health problems.

44) Aegle marmelos:
Aegle marmelos, known as the bael tree, holds significant cultural and medicinal value. Traditional medicine in Manipur uses its fruits and leaves for various ailments, further highlighting the cultural integration of botany in regional healthcare.

45) Observation:
Observation refers to the systematic examination or study of phenomena. In the context of this research, careful observation of traditional medicinal practices and their effectiveness aids in documenting and validating ancient knowledge that informs current health care methods in Manipur.

46) Sweet flag:
Sweet flag is a plant known for its aromatic rhizome and medicinal uses. Often incorporated in traditional remedies, it highlights the valued role of specific plants in promoting health and well-being within indigenous medicinal practices.

47) Discussion:
Discussion involves analyzing and interpreting findings and ideas. In the context of this study, the discussion section critically evaluates traditional medicinal practices, providing insights into effectiveness and potential integration with modern healthcare.

48) Collecting:
Collecting refers to the act of gathering or acquiring items of interest. In this study, collecting data on the use of local flora and fauna for medicinal purposes is vital for preserving traditional knowledge and understanding its relevance in contemporary health care.

49) Developing:
Developing pertains to the process of growth or progress. In traditional medicine, developing new methods or utilizing existing knowledge to address health issues ensures that ancient practices continue to be relevant and effective for current generations.

50) Substance:
Substance is a specific kind of matter with uniform properties. In traditional medicine, the identification and application of particular substances from natural sources are crucial for formulating effective treatments for various ailments.

51) Education:
Education refers to the systematic instruction and acquisition of knowledge. In the context of traditional medicine, enhancing education about local medicinal practices can empower communities and preserve vital health-related knowledge threatened by modern influences.

52) Blindness:
Blindness is a condition characterized by a lack of vision. Traditional medicine might include remedies aimed at supporting eye health, demonstrating the array of health conditions that indigenous practices target within the communities of Manipur.

53) Pesticide:
Pesticide refers to substances used for preventing, destroying, or controlling pests. In the traditional context of Manipur, the use of certain animal products is thought to possess natural pesticide properties, reflecting the integration of agriculture and health care practices.

54) Himalaya (Hima-alaya):
Himalaya, as a term, refers to the mountain range but also represents biodiversity hotspots. This indicates the unique medicinal plants native to the Himalayas that are integral to the traditional healthcare practices in Manipur.

55) Assamese:
Assamese refers to the people or language from the state of Assam, India. In the context of traditional knowledge, it suggests cultural influences in health practices found in Manipur, where ethnic diversity shapes local medicinal systems.

56) Mountain:
Mountain refers to elevated landforms that significantly impact the environment. The mountains in and around Manipur serve as habitats for unique flora and fauna that contribute to the region's rich traditional medicinal practices.

57) Swelling:
Swelling is a response to injury or inflammation characterized by an increase in size. Traditional medicine often incorporates remedies aimed at reducing swelling, highlighting the medical knowledge embedded in local treatments.

58) Elephant:
Elephant refers to large mammals that are significant in many cultures. When related to traditional medicine, their body parts may be utilized as powerful traditional remedies, although this raises ethical concerns regarding conservation and usage.

59) Epilepsy:
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. In traditional contexts, various plants may be employed in attempts to manage this condition, showcasing indigenous beliefs and practices in handling complex health issues.

60) Tamarind:
Tamarind refers to a fruit-bearing tree known for its sweet and tangy pulp. Traditionally, tamarind is used in culinary and medicinal applications, contributing to local health remedies in Manipur, indicating cultural practices intertwined with health and nutrition.

61) Cannabis:
Cannabis is a plant that possesses psychoactive properties and various medicinal uses. In traditional contexts, its use demonstrates cultural attitudes towards natural remedies, revealing the complex relationship between indigenous practices and contemporary health issues.

62) Margosa:
Margosa, commonly known as neem, is a tree with remarkable medicinal properties. In traditional medicine, its leaves and bark are extensively utilized for treating various ailments, highlighting the plant's relevance and efficacy in indigenous health care practices.

63) Thangal:
Thangal refers to a specific ethnic community within Manipur, which possesses unique traditional medicinal practices. This highlights the diversity of indigenous knowledge and the importance of recognizing cultural variations in healthcare approaches across different communities.

64) Camphor:
Camphor is a white, solid substance with a strong aroma, used in traditional medicine for its therapeutic properties. It plays a significant role in respiratory treatments and is an example of how natural resources are integrated into health practices.

65) Mineral:
Mineral encompasses naturally occurring inorganic substances with a defined chemical composition. Some traditional remedies may integrate minerals for their health benefits, demonstrating the holistic approach employed by local healers in enhancing well-being.

66) Malaya:
Malaya often refers to the region covering parts of Southeast Asia. In the context of medicinal studies, it may signify traditional practices and plant usage found in this region, which can intersect with those in Manipur.

67) Pushpa (Puspa):
Pushpa is a name often associated with flowers in various Indian languages. In the context of traditional practices, it may symbolize the use of specific flowering plants within indigenous medicine in Manipur, valued for their healing properties.

68) Bitter:
Bitter refers to one of the basic tastes, often associated with certain herbs and plants used in medicine. Many medicinal plants utilized in traditional healthcare have a bitter taste, indicating the quality and potency of their therapeutic compounds.

69) Purity:
Purity refers to the state of being free from contaminants. In traditional medicinal practices, the concept of purity is significant in sourcing and preparing medicines, ensuring that the therapeutic properties of plants and animals are not compromised.

70) Medium:
Medium refers to an intervening substance through which something is expressed or transmitted. In traditional medicine, this may relate to the preparation methods of treatments, illustrating how the medium affects the efficacy and application of herbal remedies.

71) Spider:
Spider refers to arachnids often found in various ecosystems. In traditional medicine, certain spiders may be associated with specific remedies or treatments, reflecting the breadth of knowledge regarding various organisms and their uses in health practices.

72) Flying:
Flying refers to the ability to move through the air. In Manipur's traditional medicine, species such as flying squirrels may hold particular significance, reflecting the rich diversity of animal resources utilized for health solutions.

73) Desire:
Desire often pertains to a strong feeling of wanting. In relation to traditional belief systems, the desire might be linked to spiritual healing practices and the cultural significance associated with specific plants and animals in health care.

74) Simha:
Sinha may refer to a botanist or researcher whose work aids in identifying plant species. The inclusion of such figures highlights the role of scholarly contributions in preserving and validating traditional medicinal knowledge in Manipur.

75) Ganja (Gamja):
Ganja is a term commonly used for cannabis. In traditional practices, it illustrates the complex cultural and medicinal perceptions surrounding its use and highlights its role in traditional healthcare among communities in Manipur.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 94]

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Traditional medicines and health care from the flora and fauna of manipur’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Cultural diversity, Medicinal plant, Flora and fauna, Traditional medicine, Complementary and alternative medicine, Herbal treatment, Health care system, Indigenous knowledge, Biodiversity hot spot, Ethno medicinal knowledge, Ethno pharmacology, Ethnic group.

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