Folkloric plant remedies for rheumatism
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Folkloric plant remedies for rheumatism
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.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
P.K. Sudhadevi
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Folkloric plant remedies for rheumatism
Year: 1999
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study conducted by P.K. Sudhadevi at the Kerala Agricultural University highlights the traditional plant remedies used by tribal communities, specifically the Malayan tribe in the Thrissur district of Kerala, India. The research focused on uncovering the folkloric knowledge related to rheumatism, a term encompassing various painful joint and muscle conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis and bursitis. The investigation yielded valuable insights into twelve plant species commonly utilized by the Malayan community, detailing their preparation and mode of application. Reliable informants from five selected locations—Chimminy, Marottichal, Sholayar, Vazhachal, and Vazhani—provided information, and voucher specimens were collected for reference.
Herbal Remedies for Rheumatism
One significant aspect of the research is the presentation of specific plant remedies for alleviating rheumatic pain. For example, the leaves of Adhatoda beddomei are used externally on affected areas for pain relief, while Annona squamosa involves the topical application of macerated leaf pulp on swollen joints. Calotropis gigantea leaves are also utilized for fomentation of painful areas. Additionally, preparations such as a poultice made from Datura stramonium leaves mixed with rice flour and the consumption of rice gruel made from Entada phaseoloides showcase the diverse methods of leveraging local flora for medicinal use. The various combinations and applications underscore the rich traditional knowledge surrounding plant-based treatments within these communities.
Conclusion
The findings underscore the importance of documenting and preserving traditional herbal knowledge, particularly in rural and tribal settings where modern healthcare may be limited. The study of folkloric plant remedies not only offers alternative treatment options for conditions like rheumatism but also highlights the need for further research into the pharmacological potential of these plants. By integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific approaches, there exists an opportunity to enhance healthcare practices and potentially develop new therapeutic agents. This research serves as a valuable contribution to the understanding of ethnobotany and the cultural heritage surrounding plant-based medicine in India.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the focus of P.K. Sudhadevi's research?
P.K. Sudhadevi's research focuses on folkloric plant remedies for rheumatism among the tribal communities of Thrissur district, Kerala, India. The investigation highlights traditional uses of various plants and their potential applications in modern medicine.
Which tribal population was the primary subject of the study?
The primary subject of the study was the Malayan tribe, which forms the majority of the tribal population in Thrissur District. The survey gathered traditional knowledge about local plants used for therapeutic purposes.
What type of conditions does the term rheumatism cover?
Rheumatism refers to various painful conditions affecting joints and muscles, characterized by inflammation and stiffness. This includes conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, bursitis, and neuritis, which cause significant discomfort.
Can you name a few plants used for rheumatism treatment?
Some plants mentioned for treating rheumatism include Adhatoda beddomei, Datura stramonium, and Zingiber officinale. These plants are prepared in various ways, such as poultices or infusions, and applied to affected areas for relief.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Folkloric plant remedies for rheumatism”. 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) Swelling:
Swelling refers to the enlargement of body parts, often due to inflammation, injury, or infection. In the context of rheumatism, swelling occurs in the joints and surrounding tissues. The folk remedies described often target these swollen areas, providing relief through topical applications or preparations made from various local plants.
2) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses a variety of substances or practices used to prevent and treat diseases. The document discusses folkloric plant remedies, emphasizing natural compounds and traditional knowledge. These remedies are derived from local plants and show potential for alleviating symptoms of rheumatism, highlighting the significance of ethnopharmaceutical practices in healthcare.
3) Rice (Ṛce):
Rice is a staple food and a significant component in many cultures, including those of the Malayans. In this context, rice serves as a base for preparing medicinal concoctions like rice gruel, which is combined with plant extracts. Its use in traditional remedies illustrates the fusion of dietary staples and herbal medicine.
4) Rheumatoid arthritis:
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting joints, characterized by pain, swelling, and stiffness. The paper addresses various folkloric remedies for treating rheumatism, which includes conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Traditional practices often reflect a cultural understanding of such debilitating diseases and offer insights into alternative therapeutic approaches.
5) Ricinus communis:
Ricinus communis, or castor bean, is a plant mentioned in the remedies for rheumatism. The leaves are used for fomentation on swollen joints, showcasing its practical application in traditional medicine. This particular plant highlights the relationship between regional flora and the treatment of common ailments in indigenous practices.
6) Inflammation:
Inflammation is the body's response to injury or infection, leading to symptoms such as redness, heat, swelling, and pain. It is a central component in rheumatic conditions. The remedies discussed aim to reduce inflammation through herbal applications, reflecting a natural approach to managing pain and discomfort associated with these conditions.
7) Knowledge:
Knowledge, particularly regarding plant uses in traditional medicine, is crucial for cultural identity and health practices. This document illustrates the rich ethnobotanical knowledge among the Malayans, emphasizing how local wisdom regarding plant properties informs the development of remedies for ailments like rheumatism, enhancing community health.
8) Stiffness:
Stiffness in joints is a common symptom of rheumatism, restricting movement and causing discomfort. The remedies focus on alleviating stiffness through the application of heat or topical substances derived from local plants. Addressing stiffness helps improve mobility and quality of life for individuals suffering from rheumatic conditions.
9) Avanakku (Āvaṇakku):
Avanakku is the vernacular name for Ricinus communis in the local context. The leaves are used in traditional remedies to alleviate pain associated with rheumatism. This emphasizes the significance of local names in plant identification and their role in traditional healing practices within specific cultural settings.
10) Coconut (Cocoanut):
Coconut is a versatile fruit widely used in various culinary and medicinal applications. In the remedies discussed, coconut gratings are consumed along with rice gruel, suggesting a nutritional and therapeutic role in managing rheumatic pain. This showcases the integration of dietary elements within traditional medicine practices.
11) Ummattu:
Ummathu is the vernacular name for Datura stramonium, a plant used in preparing poultices for rheumatic swellings. Its mention highlights the localized knowledge regarding plant properties and applications in traditional remedies, showcasing how specific plants are culturally relevant in addressing health issues endemic to the community.
12) Science (Scientific):
Science in this context reflects the systematic study of the medicinal properties of plants and their application in therapy. The documentation of these folkloric plant remedies can bridge traditional knowledge with scientific inquiry, potentially leading to the validation and exploration of new medicinal compounds from local flora.
13) Tumpa (Tumpā, Tūmpā):
Thumba refers to Leucas aspera, a plant used in traditional medicine for the treatment of rheumatism. The application of a leaf paste made with this plant indicates its medicinal value in folk healing practices, underscoring the importance of regional plants in local healthcare traditions.
14) Water:
Water is often a medium for extracting beneficial compounds from plants, as it is used to prepare infusions or gruels in the remedies described. In traditional medicine, water not only aids in the processing of preparations but also serves as a vehicle for healing through its essential role in hydration and detoxification.
15) Inci (Iñci, Imci, Incī):
Inchi refers to Zingiber officinale, or ginger, which is used in traditional remedies to combat symptoms of rheumatism. Its inclusion in medicinal formulations highlights the significance of various spices and roots in ethnomedicinal practices, reflecting their therapeutic properties and cultural importance in local healthcare.