Herbal medicine use in Thiruvarur's indigenous communities, Tamil Nadu

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Journal name: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine
Original article title: Integration of traditional herbal medicines among the indigenous communities in Thiruvarur District of Tamil Nadu, India
The Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine (JAIM) is an open-access publication promoting collaboration between Ayurveda, traditional medicine, and biomedicine, publishing research on integrative health sciences
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Original source:

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Author:

Jayaraj Krupa, Jeyalatchagan Sureshkumar, Rajendran Silambarasan, Kanagaraj Priyadarshini, Muniappan Ayyanar


Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine:

(A monthly peer-reviewed publication)

Full text available for: Integration of traditional herbal medicines among the indigenous communities in Thiruvarur District of Tamil Nadu, India

Year: 2019 | Doi: 10.1016/j.jaim.2017.07.013

Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-ND 4.0


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Herbal medicine use in Thiruvarur's indigenous communities, Tamil Nadu”. 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 ethnobotany, a study typically refers to research conducted to gather and analyze information about the medicinal plants used by local communities. This involves fieldwork, interviews with practitioners, and data collection on plant species, their uses, preparation methods, and associated cultural practices.

2) India:
India is known for its rich heritage in traditional medicine, with diverse ethnic groups practicing various medicinal systems such as Ayurveda and Siddha. The country’s vast biodiversity provides an array of medicinal plants, making it a key area for ethnobotanical studies aimed at preserving indigenous knowledge and practices.

3) Medicine:
Medicine, in this context, refers to the methods and practices utilized by traditional healers and herbalists to treat ailments using natural resources. Herbal medicine remains a significant aspect of healthcare in many cultures, especially in regions where access to modern medical facilities is limited.

4) Tamil:
Tamil is a South Indian ethnic group that has a distinct culture and language, primarily located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Their traditional practices, particularly in Siddha medicine, offer valuable insights into ethnobotanical knowledge and the use of local flora in health treatments.

5) Siddha:
Siddha is an ancient system of traditional medicine practiced mainly in Tamil Nadu, India, which utilizes herbs, minerals, and animal products to promote health and treat diseases. It emphasizes balance within the body and good health as integral components, thus forming a significant part of the region’s medical heritage.

6) Table:
In academic texts, tables are used to present quantitative data in a structured format, allowing for easy comparison and analysis. In this study, tables are likely to summarize demographic information about informants, plant species documented, or the usage of various medicinal plants across different ailments.

7) Knowledge:
Knowledge, particularly in ethnobotany, refers to the understanding and information held by local communities regarding herbal medicines and their applications. This includes the identification of plants, methods of preparation, and the specific ailments they treat, forming an essential aspect of cultural heritage and biodiversity.

8) Nadu:
Nadu translates to 'land' in Tamil and is often used as a suffix in the names of states and regions in India. In the context of Tamil Nadu, it signifies the geographical and cultural identity of the Tamil-speaking populace, emphasizing their connection to their land and traditions.

9) Disease:
Disease refers to abnormal conditions affecting the body that require diagnosis and treatment. In the context of this ethnobotanical study, the focus is on various ailments documented among the local population, and the medicinal plants used in traditional practices to alleviate these conditions.

10) Species:
Species refers to specific types of plants, animals, or organisms. In ethnobotany studies, the identification and classification of plant species used in traditional medicine are crucial for understanding the relationship between these plants and the health practices of indigenous communities.

11) Tamilnadu (Tamil-nadu):
Tamil Nadu is a South Indian state renowned for its cultural heritage, rich history, and significant contributions to traditional medicine. The prevalence of ethnic diversity in healthcare practices offers a unique opportunity for ethnobotanical studies focusing on the indigenous knowledge of medicinal plants.

12) Tiruvarur:
Thiruvarur is a district in Tamil Nadu noted for its agricultural practices and traditional healing methods. The area is significant for ethnobotanical studies as it reflects the local biodiversity and the indigenous knowledge surrounding the use of medicinal plants for health and wellness among its residents.

13) Village:
A village is a small community or group of houses in a rural area. In the study, Puliyankudi village serves as the focal point for understanding the traditional knowledge systems of the local population regarding medicinal plants and their applications in healthcare.

14) Drug:
In the context of ethnobotanical research, a drug refers to any substance, often derived from plants, that is used for medical treatment. The study aims to explore potential new pharmaceutical compounds based on traditional knowledge and the therapeutic properties of various plants identified in the research.

15) Forest:
Forests are crucial ecosystems that provide a habitat for various plant and animal species, many of which have medicinal properties. The study emphasizes the importance of preserving these natural habitats as they are a source of biodiversity and traditional remedies used in local healthcare practices.

16) Trader:
A trader is a person engaged in the buying and selling of goods. In the context of medicinal plants, local traders often play a vital role in the distribution of herbal remedies sourced from local healers and collectors, impacting the availability and use of traditional medicine in communities.

17) Indian:
Indian refers to the diverse cultural, linguistic, and ethnic groups residing in India, each with unique traditions and practices. In ethnobotany, studying Indian medicinal practices sheds light on the integration of traditional knowledge with the region's extensive biodiversity, particularly in relation to herbal medicine.

18) Fever:
Fever is a common symptom associated with various medical conditions, often indicating an underlying infection or illness. The ethnobotanical study explores traditional remedies used by local communities in Tamil Nadu to manage fever, showcasing the practical applications of indigenous medicinal knowledge.

19) Tirunelveli:
Tirunelveli is a district in Tamil Nadu, India, known for its agricultural significance and traditional medicinal practices. The region's rich biodiversity and cultural heritage contribute to the ethnobotanical knowledge prevalent among its inhabitants, making it a relevant area for exploring medicinal plant uses.

20) Chennai:
Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu, represents a vibrant urban center where traditional and modern healthcare practices intertwine. The city's proximity to rural areas enables access to diverse medicinal plant knowledge, making it a critical point for bridging traditional practices with modern healthcare systems.

21) Prabhu:
Prabhu is a common name in Indian culture, often referring to a person with religious or social significance. Within the context of this study, it may reference one of the researchers or contributors involved in the ethnobotanical survey, highlighting the collaborative effort in documenting traditional knowledge.

22) Ulcer:
Ulcers are sores or lesions that can occur in various parts of the body. The study focuses on the traditional medicinal plants used by local communities to treat ulcers, emphasizing the ongoing relevance of ethnomedicinal practices in the management of common health issues.

23) Kani:
Kani refers to an indigenous community in India, particularly in the region of Tamil Nadu, known for its deep-rooted knowledge of medicinal plants. Their traditional practices are significant for understanding the use of local flora in treating ailments, which contributes to the overall ethnobotanical knowledge.

24) Ghat (Gham):
Ghat refers to a series of steps leading down to a body of water, or in certain contexts, a mountain range or steep slope. In this study, Ghat could signify the geographical features around which various traditional healing plants are found, impacting their uses in local medicine.

25) Life:
Life is a fundamental theme in ethnobotanical studies as it encompasses the interconnections between people, plants, and the environment. The use of medicinal plants in daily life reflects cultural practices and traditions, highlighting the significance of natural resources in sustaining health and wellbeing.

26) Practising (Practicing):
Practicing refers to the act of applying traditional knowledge or skills in a real-world context. In this ethnobotanical study, it pertains to the local communities practicing herbal medicine, showcasing the continuation of traditional healing methods handed down through generations.

27) Education:
Education in the context of traditional medicine encompasses the transmission of knowledge about medicinal plants and their uses among communities. It includes formal and informal learning where practitioners acquire skills and attest to their efficacy in treating various ailments, fostering resilience in cultural practices.

28) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a traditional Indian system of medicine that emphasizes balance between body, mind, and spirit. It utilizes herbs, diet, and lifestyle modifications for health management. Ayurveda coexists with Siddha and is significant in ethnobotanical studies for understanding comprehensive traditional medical practices in India.

29) Swelling:
Swelling refers to an abnormal enlargement of a body part, often due to inflammation or injury. This study explores the use of traditional medicinal plants in managing swelling, illustrating the practical applications of local herbal remedies in treating common health issues.

30) Family:
Family refers to the basic social unit composed of individuals related by blood, marriage, or adoption. In the context of traditional medicine, families often pass down knowledge of herbal remedies from generation to generation, preserving cultural practices and enhancing community health.

31) Botany:
Botany is the scientific study of plants, focusing on their structure, properties, and biochemical processes. In ethnobotanical studies, botany plays a crucial role by providing essential insights into plant classification, preparation methods, and the identification of species used for medicinal purposes.

32) Water:
Water is a vital resource for life and has many uses in traditional medicine, including as a medium for herbal preparations such as decoctions and infusions. Its availability is crucial for the preparation of medicinal plants, making it integral to local healthcare practices.

33) Hair:
Hair can symbolize beauty and health in various cultures. Ethnobotanical studies may explore the use of specific plants for promoting hair health, addressing issues such as hair loss or dandruff, and showcasing how traditional remedies tie into broader cultural values around appearance.

34) Limonia acidissima:
Limonia acidissima, commonly known as wood apple, is a tree species noted for its nutritional and medicinal properties. In the study, it is highlighted for its high use value among informants for treating various ailments, showcasing its significance in local healthcare traditions.

35) Velliangiri:
Velliangiri refers to a mountain range in Tamil Nadu associated with various traditional practices, including herbal medicine. The area houses diverse plant species utilized by local communities for medicinal purposes, portraying the rich cultural heritage linked to the landscape and its resources.

36) Karnataka:
Karnataka is a neighboring state of Tamil Nadu in southern India, known for its distinct traditions and biodiversity. The ethnobotanical practices observed in Karnataka contribute valuable insights into medicinal plants and healing systems, while highlighting regional variations in traditional knowledge across states.

37) Relative:
Relative can pertain to a connection or comparison among concepts. In ethnobotany, it may refer to the relative importance or use value of specific plants identified in the study, reflecting how various species are prioritized based on their medicinal efficacy among communities.

38) Pregnant:
Pregnant refers to the condition of carrying a developing fetus within the womb. Ethnobotanical studies may include the exploration of traditional remedies utilized by local communities to support pregnant women, addressing health concerns related to pregnancy, and showcasing the role of plants in maternal care.

39) Epilepsy:
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. In the study, traditional medicinal practices aimed at treating epilepsy underscore the intersection between modern medical challenges and cultural knowledge, reflecting how local herbal remedies play a significant role in the management of neurological conditions.

40) Samhita:
Samhita refers to a type of ancient text or compilation of knowledge, particularly in Indian traditions, such as the Ayurvedic and Siddha systems. These texts contain valuable information about medicinal plants and their uses, forming an essential part of the intellectual foundation for traditional medicine.

41) Bharati:
Bharati is a common name in India, often related to scholars or practitioners. In the context of this study, it may refer to key contributors involved in the ethnobotanical research, emphasizing their role in documenting and preserving traditional knowledge of herbal remedies and practices.

42) Chandra:
Chandra is an Indian name that can signify both lunar aspects and refers to certain contributors within the study. In ethnobotanical research, individuals with such names may collaborate in gathering information about local medicinal plants, fostering a deeper understanding of traditional healing practices.

43) Madurai:
Madurai is a city in Tamil Nadu recognized for its historical significance and cultural richness. In the context of traditional medicine, Madurai represents a hub for ethnobotanical studies where various practices and forms of medicinal knowledge converge, highlighting regional medicinal plant use and traditions.

44) Leprosy:
Leprosy, a chronic infectious disease, has affected human populations for centuries, requiring effective management and treatment strategies. Ethnobotanical research aims to uncover local remedies and traditional practices used by communities to treat leprosy, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of historical and cultural approaches to health.

45) Itching:
Itching is a common symptom associated with skin irritations and allergies. Ethnobotanical studies often focus on traditional medicinal practices aimed at alleviating itching, revealing the significance of specific plants used by local communities to soothe discomfort and manage skin conditions.

46) Kashmir:
Kashmir is a region known for its natural beauty and cultural richness. The traditional medicinal practices of the people from this region contribute valuable insights into ethnobotany, particularly regarding the use of local flora for health treatments, reflecting the interconnectedness of culture, nature, and healthcare.

47) Cancer:
Cancer represents a major public health concern, prompting extensive research into treatments and supportive care. Ethnobotanical studies may explore the role of traditional medicinal plants utilized for cancer management, revealing how local knowledge systems contribute to understanding potential natural remedies and support measures.

48) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sarma is a surname common in India, associated with individuals involved in various professions, including medicine and research. In this study, individuals with this name may represent contributors who engage in documentation and analysis of traditional medicinal practices, reinforcing the importance of collaborative research.

49) Powder:
Powder refers to a form in which herbal medicines can be prepared and administered. In ethnobotanical research, the study of powder formulations underscores the diversity of preparation methods utilized by traditional healers to enhance the efficacy and accessibility of medicinal plant applications.

50) Malik:
Malik is a surname prevalent in South Asia, often denoting a leader or chief in community contexts. In the context of ethnobotany, it may refer to a researcher or practitioner contributing to the understanding of traditional medicinal practices and their relevance to the local culture.

51) Rules:
Rules can indicate guidelines followed within a community or profession. In ethnobotanical research, rules may pertain to cultural practices governing the collection and use of medicinal plants, ensuring that these practices are conducted sustainably and that related knowledge is preserved through generations.

52) Field:
Field refers to the physical area where research is conducted, especially in ethnobotany where fieldwork involves direct interaction with local communities and their ecological settings. Studying plants in their natural habitat provides insights into their uses and significance in traditional medicine.

53) Paddy:
Paddy refers to the cultivated rice plant, critical for food security in many cultures, especially in India. The study of paddy agricultural practices can be linked to traditional knowledge systems, as local communities often utilize various plant species and agricultural techniques that intersect with their medicinal practices.

54) Veda:
Veda refers to the ancient sacred texts of Hindu philosophy that encompass various aspects of life, including medicine and health. In ethnobotanical contexts, the use of texts like the Vedas illustrates how traditional knowledge is documented and upheld within Indian culture, particularly in herbal medicine.

55) Saha (Shaha):
Saha is a common surname in India, often associated with individuals in various fields including research and education. In ethnobotanical studies, individuals with the surname are likely contributors to the understanding and documentation of traditional knowledge surrounding medicinal plants and their uses.

56) Sah:
Shah is a common name and title in Indian culture, often used to denote nobility or leadership. In terms of ethnobotany, it may refer to individuals contributing to the research and preservation of traditional medicinal practices among local communities in the region.

57) Pain:
Pain is a symptom that signifies discomfort or distress within the body, prompting individuals to seek treatment. Ethnobotanical studies often explore the use of specific plants for pain management by traditional healers, illustrating the importance of herbal remedies in local healthcare practices.

58) Soil:
Soil is a crucial environment for plant growth, playing a vital role in agriculture and biodiversity. Understanding soil types and their health is essential for ethnobotanical studies as it directly influences the availability of medicinal plants and agricultural practices utilized by local communities.

59) Male:
Male refers to one of the biological sexes. Within the context of the study, it may pertain to the demographic information of informants, reflecting the roles of men in traditional medicine practices as practitioners or knowledge holders in the local communities.

60) Phyllanthus emblica:
Phyllanthus emblica, commonly known as Indian gooseberry or amla, is a highly valued plant in traditional medicine, particularly for its rich source of vitamin C and antioxidant properties. In this study, its relevance lies in its multiple uses in treating various health conditions as prescribed by local healers.

61) Burning sensation:
Burning sensation often refers to discomfort or pain in various body parts, typically associated with conditions like acid reflux or skin irritations. Ethnobotanical studies frequently document traditional remedies used to soothe such sensations, highlighting the practical applications of indigenous knowledge in addressing common health issues.

62) Mangifera indica:
Mangifera indica, known commonly as mango, is not only a widely loved fruit but also carries medicinal properties in traditional practices. Its leaves, bark, and fruit are often utilized for various health benefits, reflecting the integral role of this species within local herbal medicine.

63) Southern India:
Southern India is a region characterized by rich cultural diversity, language, and practices, including traditional medicine systems like Siddha and Ayurveda. The region’s unique biodiversity supports extensive ethnobotanical studies, showcasing the indigenous knowledge related to medicinal plants and their applications across various communities.

64) Peer review:
Peer review is a critical process in academic publishing, ensuring that research is evaluated and validated by experts in the field before publication. In ethnobotanical studies, this process enhances the credibility of findings regarding traditional plant uses and medicinal practices within various cultural settings.

65) Sushruta-samhita (Susruta-samhita):
Sushruta-samhita is an ancient Sanskrit text on surgery and medicine attributed to Sushruta, an important figure in Ayurveda. The text serves as a primary source of knowledge about surgical practices and medicinal plant uses, reflecting the depth of traditional medical knowledge in Indian culture.

66) Sesamum indicum:
Sesamum indicum, commonly known as sesame, is a flowering plant whose seeds are not only a nutritional staple but also possess medicinal properties. Ethnobotanical studies highlight its use in traditional remedies, emphasizing the importance of this species in both dietary and medicinal applications.

67) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological relates to the study of drug action and the therapeutic effects of substances on biological systems. In ethnobotanical research, examining the pharmacological properties of medicinal plants provides scientific evidence for the traditional knowledge regarding their effectiveness in treating various health conditions.

68) Atharvaveda (Atharva-Veda):
Atharva-Veda is one of the four Vedas that contain hymns and knowledge, including sections on healing and medicinal practices. Ethnobotany draws upon texts like the Atharva-Veda to understand the historical context of plant use in traditional medicine, highlighting the deep-rooted connections between nature and health.

69) Civilization:
Civilization encompasses the cultural, social, and technological developments within human societies. Understanding how different civilizations, particularly in India, have utilized local flora for medicinal purposes reveals the interplay between culture and nature, illustrating the evolution of traditional healthcare practices over millennia.

70) Purification:
Purification refers to the processes employed to cleanse or detoxify substances, often essential in preparing herbal medicines. Many traditional practices include rituals or methods aimed at purification to enhance the efficacy and safety of medicinal plants, reflecting the holistic approaches found within ethnobotanical traditions.

71) Agriculture:
Agriculture is the practice of cultivating soil, growing crops, and raising livestock, directly contributing to food security. In the context of traditional medicine, agricultural practices influence the availability of medicinal plants, fostering a synergy between local farming and the utilization of herbal remedies.

72) Green gram:
Green gram, scientifically known as Vigna radiata, is a leguminous plant that is cultivated for its nutritious seeds. In traditional medicine, it is recognized for its health benefits and may be included in herbal preparations, reflecting the broader agricultural practices linked to the use of medicinal plants.

73) Discussion:
Discussion in academic research refers to the section where findings are interpreted and contextualized within the broader literature. In ethnobotanical studies, this is crucial for linking indigenous knowledge and practices to scientific inquiry, validating traditional uses of medicinal plants through evidence-based approaches.

74) Developing:
Developing refers to the process of growth or progress, particularly in relation to creating new applications or understanding in a specific field. In the context of ethnobotany, it may pertain to the potential of traditional knowledge to contribute to pharmaceutical developments and sustainable practices.

75) Snake-bite:
Snake-bite is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment to prevent severe complications. Ethnobotanical studies often explore traditional remedies for treating snake bites, illustrating how local knowledge systems have adapted to address dangerous wildlife encounters through the use of specific medicinal plants.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 99]

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