Tribals of Thrissur, Kerala: folkloric insect sting remedies.
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Folkloric plant remedies for stings of insects from the tribals of thrissur district, kerala
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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P.K. Sudhadevi, M. Aravindakshan
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Folkloric plant remedies for stings of insects from the tribals of thrissur district, kerala
Year: 1994
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study conducted by P.K. Sudhadevi and M. Aravindakshan highlights the traditional medicinal practices of the Malayan tribes in Thrissur district, Kerala, focusing specifically on plant remedies used for treating insect stings. The authors undertook a survey to document the rich knowledge of tribal communities regarding local flora and their applications in healing. This ethnobotanical investigation aimed to gather information about specific plants that serve as remedies against various insect attacks, offering insights into the integration of traditional wisdom and natural resources in healthcare.
Traditional Remedies for Insect Stings
One crucial concept presented is the identification of specific plants and their methods of use for treating stings from insects such as honeybees, wasps, scorpions, and centipedes. For instance, the Malayan tribes utilize Agaricus campestris, a mushroom paste mixed with juice from Sphaeranthus indicus, as an effective treatment for scorpion stings. Similarly, the leaves of Amaranthus paniculatus are made into a paste for application on wasp stings, with an additional medicinal practice of orally consuming the paste. These remedies reflect the practical knowledge and resourcefulness of the tribal population, as they creatively employ local botanicals for immediate relief and healing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Malayan tribes of Thrissur district possess a wealth of knowledge regarding folkloric plant remedies, showcasing their connection to nature and the importance of local resources in traditional medicine. The study emphasizes the vital role that this indigenous knowledge plays in addressing health issues related to insect stings. By documenting these practices, the authors contribute to the preservation of ethnomedical knowledge, which could be invaluable for future applications in herbal medicine and contribute to the broader understanding of biodiversity and plant utilization in traditional health systems.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the focus of the study conducted by P.K. Sudhadevi?
The study focuses on folkloric plant remedies used by the tribal community in Thrissur district, Kerala, specifically for treating stings from various insects such as honeybees and scorpions.
Which tribal community was selected for this herbal remedy survey?
The Malayan tribe was selected for the survey because they form the majority population in the Thrissur district, allowing for an extensive collection of indigenous knowledge about medicinal plants.
What types of plants are identified in the research?
The research identifies twelve different plants used by the Malayan tribe for treating insect stings, including their Latin names, family classifications, vernacular names, and the specific methods of application.
How do the tribal people treat wasp stings according to the text?
For wasp stings, the tribal people prepare a paste of Cassia tora leaves with raw turmeric, which they apply as a poultice to the affected area, and also consume part of the paste.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Tribals of Thrissur, Kerala: folkloric insect sting remedies.”. 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) Insect:
Insects such as bees, wasps, scorpions, and centipedes pose potential threats to the tribes of Thrissur District, Kerala. The local tribes have developed methods to treat stings and bites from these insects. Understanding insect interactions in their environment is vital for developing medicinal practices based on local flora.
2) Scorpion:
Scorpions are venomous arachnids that can cause painful stings, which are significant in the context of tribal medicine. The documented remedies for scorpion stings, such as paste from local plants, highlight the tribes' reliance on their natural environment for effective treatments against such dangerous creatures.
3) Turmeric:
Turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, is commonly used in folk medicine. In the context of the remedies described, turmeric is combined with other ingredients to treat stings from insects like bees and wasps, showcasing its versatile healing potential in tribal medicine.
4) Jaggery:
Jaggery, a traditional unrefined sugar, is utilized in various medicinal applications. In the paper, it's mixed with lime water to treat stings from insects, demonstrating its importance not only as a food source but also as a carrier for herbal remedies applied by the tribal communities.
5) Science (Scientific):
The paper emphasizes the science behind the traditional knowledge of plant remedies. This folk knowledge reflects a form of empirical science developed through generations by the tribes, showcasing their understanding of local flora's therapeutic properties as a response to environmental challenges.
6) Honey:
Honey is produced by bees and is often associated with healing properties in various cultures. The presence of honey bees poses risks, leading to the development of local treatments for stings. This connection illustrates the dual role of honey bees in the ecosystem and traditional medicine.
7) Piper longum:
Piper longum, also known as long pepper, is utilized in the remedies documented for treating centipede bites. Its use illustrates the deep botanical knowledge held by the tribal communities of Thrissur District, highlighting its historical significance in both dietary and medicinal contexts.
8) Cocos nucifera:
Cocos nucifera, or coconut, is a vital plant in coastal and tropical ecosystems. In the context of the study, its shell is used to create a charcoal paste for treating centipede eruptions, showcasing the plant's diverse applications in both nutrition and traditional healing.
9) Knowledge:
The knowledge of plant remedies among the tribal communities signifies a rich heritage of ethnobotanical practices. This knowledge is not only crucial for their health but also reflects their close relationship with nature, influencing their community's survival and resilience in handling insect-related challenges.
10) Centipede:
Centipedes are venomous arthropods whose bites can cause pain and irritation. The local tribes have identified specific plant remedies to counter the effects of centipede bites, highlighting their resourcefulness and the importance of understanding the local fauna for developing effective treatments.
11) Ayurveda (Āyurveda, Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, is based on natural observations and remedies. The folk remedies documented reflect the Ayurvedic principles of using local plants for healing, showing how tribal knowledge complements formal Ayurvedic practices in addressing health concerns from insect stings.
12) Elephant:
Elephants are significant both ecologically and culturally in the regions studied. The mention of mushrooms arising from elephant excreta highlights the interconnectedness of species and the use of natural resources. It emphasizes the wisdom of utilizing what the environment provides for local healing.
13) Tumpa (Tumpā, Tūmpā):
Thumba refers to the local name for a plant used in tribal medicine. Its mention in the remedies signifies the importance of regional flora in healing practices, emphasizing how local names and knowledge of plant species play a vital role in the community's health interventions.
14) Water:
Water is a fundamental element in preparing plant-based remedies. It serves as a solvent and medium for extracts and pastes used to treat insect stings. The use of water in medicinal practices reflects the essential role of natural resources in the healing traditions of tribal communities.
15) Sage:
Sages are historically known for their profound knowledge of medicinal plants and natural healing. In the context of the study, the mention of sages evokes the longstanding tradition of learning from nature that informs contemporary practices, linking modern ethnobotany with ancient wisdom regarding plant remedies.