Antimicrobial effects of tribal medicines from Wayanad, Kerala.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Antimicrobial activity of tribal medicines collected from wayanad district, kerala
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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Devi Prasad A.G., Raghavendra M.P. and Shyma T.B
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Antimicrobial activity of tribal medicines collected from wayanad district, kerala
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
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Summary of article contents:
1. Introduction
The overuse of antibiotics has led to the development of multi-drug resistant strains of microorganisms, representing a significant public health issue globally. In response to this challenge, there is a growing need to explore alternative antimicrobial agents found in traditional medicine. The Wayanad District in Kerala is home to a rich population of indigenous tribes that utilize various medicinal plants for treating numerous ailments, particularly infectious diseases. The study conducted by Devi Prasad and colleagues evaluates the antibacterial and antifungal properties of 20 medicinal plant extracts used by five tribal communities in Wayanad. The findings aim to document and scientifically substantiate the ethno-medicinal practices of these tribes.
2. Ethno-botanical Utilization of Medicinal Plants
The tribal communities in Wayanad have a profound knowledge of medicinal plants, employing them for various health issues. The study identifies 20 plant species, diversified into 16 different families, that are employed by tribes such as the Kurichia, Kuruma, Kattunaika, Adiya, and Paniya. Each plant has specific therapeutic uses ranging from treating skin infections, diarrhea, and respiratory issues to ailments like dysentery and snakebites. For instance, the aqueous extract of Garcinia gummi gutta is utilized for treating tonsillitis and diarrhea, while the leaf paste of Nothapodytes nimmoniana is known for its role in cancer and arthritis management. Documentation of these plants and their applications helps bridge the knowledge gap between traditional practices and modern scientific validation.
3. Phytochemical Analysis and Antimicrobial Activity
The study involved thorough phytochemical screening to identify the presence of bioactive compounds, including tannins, flavonoids, saponins, terpenoids, and cardiac glycosides, in the selected plants. The results indicated that all plant extracts exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against both bacterial and fungal pathogens. For instance, the aqueous extract of Garcinia gummi gutta and the diethyl ether extract of Alstonia venenata presented substantial inhibitory effects against Escherichia coli, while methanolic extracts of Nothapodytes nimmoniana showed significant antifungal properties against Aspergillus niger. This reinforces the belief that the therapeutic effects of these plants result from a synergistic action of multiple compounds rather than a single entity, highlighting the need for further research into their mechanisms of action.
4. Traditional Knowledge and Healthcare Implications
The findings underscore the importance of traditional knowledge in contemporary healthcare systems. The study revealed that the majority of remedies prepared by tribal healers are simple formulations involving single plant species, with fewer mixtures being utilized. This approach to plant-based remedies illustrates the tribes' deep understanding of herbal medicine, passed down through generations. Further, the educational background of traditional healers was noted to be generally low, yet most practitioners had inherited their knowledge. Such insights provide valuable information on the cultural and social aspects of healthcare within these communities, emphasizing the necessity of integrating traditional practices with scientific research for better health outcomes.
5. Conclusion
In conclusion, the study showcases the significant potential of indigenous medicinal plants in providing new avenues for antimicrobial agents in response to rising drug resistance challenges. The research documents the varied uses of plants by tribal communities in Wayanad and substantiates their antimicrobial properties through rigorous scientific exploration. There is a clear implication for policymakers and researchers to further investigate these traditional remedies, aiming at their integration into broader healthcare strategies. Ultimately, such approaches could enhance the healthcare framework for tribal populations and promote the conservation of biodiversity through the sustainable use of medicinal plants.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the focus of the study on Wayanad's tribal medicines?
The study investigates the antibacterial and antifungal properties of 20 medicinal plants used by various tribes in Wayanad, Kerala, documenting traditional practices alongside scientific validation of their antimicrobial activities.
Which plant extracts were found effective against E. coli?
The aqueous extract of Garcinia gummi gutta and diethyl ether extract of Alstonia venenata exhibited significant inhibitory activity against E. coli, highlighting their potential as natural antimicrobial agents.
What method was used to test antimicrobial activity?
The antimicrobial activity was evaluated using the agar well diffusion method, where various extracts were tested against specific bacterial and fungal cultures to measure inhibition zones of growth.
How were the plant materials prepared for the study?
Fresh plant leaves were washed, shade-dried, powdered, and extracted using diethyl ether, methanol, and water before testing their antimicrobial properties to ensure effective analysis.
What constituents were identified in the phytochemical analysis?
The phytochemical screening revealed the presence of tannins, flavonoids, saponins, terpenoids, and cardiac glycosides in various plants, suggesting their role in the therapeutic activities observed.
How does this study contribute to traditional medicine knowledge?
This study enhances understanding of tribal medicine by documenting their empirical knowledge and providing scientific evidence of the antimicrobial properties of plants traditionally used for healing.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Antimicrobial effects of tribal medicines from Wayanad, Kerala.”. 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) Activity:
Activity refers to the functional potential of a substance, specifically how it affects biological systems. In this study, it highlights the antimicrobial activity of plant extracts against various bacteria and fungi, emphasizing the importance of screening for potential new therapeutic agents in traditional medicine.
2) Disease:
Disease denotes a pathological condition affecting an organism. The study focuses on infectious diseases, common in tribal communities of Wayanad, which are treated using traditional herbal remedies. Understanding disease pathologies is crucial for validating and promoting these ethnomedicinal practices in contemporary healthcare.
3) Devi (Devī):
Devi Prasad is the lead author of the study, implicating their role in conducting research on the antimicrobial properties of medicinal plants used by tribal communities. The author's work demonstrates collaboration between academia and indigenous knowledge, which is essential for preserving traditional practices.
4) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing disease. This study documents the use of traditional medicines derived from plants in Wayanad, illustrating the continued relevance of indigenous knowledge systems in today's healthcare landscape and the exploration of natural products.
5) Study (Studying):
The study refers to the research conducted to assess the antimicrobial properties of plant extracts utilized by tribal communities. It highlights an integrative approach to understanding traditional knowledge through scientific validation, combining ethnobotanical surveys with laboratory analyses for comprehensive insights.
6) Kerala (Keralā):
Kerala is a state in India known for its rich biodiversity and traditional practices. The study is set in the Wayanad district of Kerala, which hosts various tribal communities that utilize local flora for medicinal purposes. Understanding regional resources contributes to the preservation of both cultural and ecological wealth.
7) Aureus:
Aureus, specifically referring to Staphylococcus aureus, is a bacterium known to cause skin infections and other ailments. Its inclusion in the study underlines the focus on significant pathogens in traditional medicine, assessing whether the medicinal plant extracts can inhibit such harmful microorganisms effectively.
8) Table:
Table refers to the structured presentation of data in the study. For instance, tables demonstrate the phytochemical constituents and the antimicrobial activity of various plant extracts, facilitating comparisons and enhancing clarity in understanding the research findings.
9) Phytochemical:
Phytochemical denotes the bioactive compounds found in plants. The study investigates these components to correlate their presence with antimicrobial effects, highlighting the significance of phytochemical analysis as a means to understand the mechanisms behind traditional medicinal uses.
10) Water:
Water is a solvent used in the extraction of plant materials for the study. Aqueous extracts were essential to evaluate the antimicrobial properties of the selected medicinal plants, demonstrating the importance of different extraction methods in yielding diverse active compounds.
11) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibiotic pertains to substances used to combat bacterial infections. The study discusses the need for alternatives due to the overuse of antibiotics, elucidating the potential of traditional medicinal plants as valuable sources for discovering new antibacterial agents.
12) Mysore:
Mysore, a city in Karnataka, India, is significant as the location of the University of Mysore, where part of this research was conducted. The city's academic environment supports studies that intertwine traditional practices with modern scientific methods.
13) Viti (Vīti, Viṭi, Vīṭi, Vīṭī):
Viti relates to Breynia vitis-idaea, a medicinal plant analyzed in the study for its antimicrobial effects. Documentation of its traditional uses by local tribes showcases the relationship between the plant's local name and its recognized therapeutic applications.
14) Madhuka (Mādhūka, Madhukā, Madhūka):
Madhuka longifolia is one of the plant species investigated for its medicinal properties. This specific plant's extracts demonstrated notable antimicrobial activity, integral to validating tribal knowledge regarding its effectiveness in treating infections like dysentery and diarrhea.
15) Species:
Species refers to the specific plants being studied, such as Garcinia gummi gutta and others. Identifying and classifying these species is essential in understanding their ecological roles and the traditional knowledge systems that utilize them for health benefits.
16) Karnataka (Karṇāṭaka):
Karnataka is the Indian state encompassing Wayanad, where the research took place. The biodiversity and cultural diversity within Karnataka enhance the importance of studying local medicinal plants and their use by tribal populations for health care.
17) Knowledge:
Knowledge encompasses the understanding and information about the medicinal uses of plants held by tribal communities. This study emphasizes the value of documenting and scientifically validating this traditional knowledge to preserve it for future generations.
18) Paniya (Paṇiya, Pānīya, Pāṇiyā):
Paniya is one of the tribal communities in Wayanad, utilizing local flora for various ailments. Highlighting the Paniya tribe showcases the cultural diversity and the unique healing practices within the region, emphasizing the significance of ethnomedicine in local healthcare.
19) Snake-bite:
Snake-bite relates to a common health issue addressed by traditional healers in tribal communities. Understanding medicinal plants used for treating snake bites can potentially lead to discovering effective treatments derived from local biodiversity.
20) Science (Scientific):
Science represents the systematic study of the natural world, and the research embodies this by employing scientific methodologies to validate the antimicrobial properties of ethnomedicinal plants. Integrating science with traditional knowledge can foster innovative healthcare solutions.
21) India:
India is the country hosting the Wayanad district and its tribal communities. Its vast biodiversity provides an extensive range of medicinal plants, highlighting the importance of ethnobotanical research in preserving and promoting traditional healthcare practices.
22) Blood:
Blood references a vital bodily fluid often considered in traditional medicine when diagnosing conditions. The study notes traditional practices relating to blood purification, showcasing the interconnection of symptoms and treatments in indigenous medical systems.
23) Flavonoid:
Flavonoid refers to a class of phytochemicals found in many plants studied for their potential health benefits. The presence of flavonoids may correlate with the observed antimicrobial activity, pivotal for understanding the therapeutic value of certain plant extracts.
24) Bleeding:
Bleeding signifies a condition treated by the plant extracts, particularly through the use of traditional medicines for ailments like ulcers and wounds. Highlighting such conditions reflects the practical significance of the plants in the community's healthcare.
25) Cancer:
Cancer denotes a serious disease that traditional medicines claim to address. The study mentions the use of specific plants like Nothapodytes nimmoniana in treating cancer, presenting an area for potential exploration in drug discovery from natural sources.
26) Ashoka (Asoka, Aśoka, Aśokā, Asokā):
Asoka refers to Saraca asoka, a plant included in the study for its traditional medicinal uses. Its leaves have been historically used to treat skin diseases, showcasing the relevance of local flora in addressing common health issues among communities.
27) Ulcer:
Ulcer describes a condition that can be treated using the medicinal plants discussed in the study. Documenting plants associated with ulcer treatment underscores the potential efficacy and cultural significance of traditional remedies in managing health problems.
28) Male (Mālē):
Male in this context highlights the gender demographics of the tribal healers. The study notes the differences in educational backgrounds between males and females, which contributes to understanding the transmission of traditional knowledge and practices.
29) Pain (Paiṇ):
Pain refers to symptoms commonly addressed through traditional healing practices, particularly in the context of using plant extracts. Analyzing the effectiveness of these extracts for relieving pain exemplifies the therapeutic claims associated with various medicinal plants.
30) Snake poison (Snake venom):
Snake poison indicates a critical health concern treated using traditional remedies. The focus on plants used for snake bites in the study emphasizes the importance of ethnomedicinal knowledge and the potential for discovery of effective treatments.
31) Discussion:
Discussion highlights the section where the implications and interpretations of the study's findings are articulated. This section is essential for understanding the significance of results in relation to traditional practices, scientific validation, and future research directions.
32) Drug:
Drug refers to pharmacological substances that produce a therapeutic effect. The research aims at identifying plant extracts that could lead to the development of new drugs, contributing to the field of pharmacognosy and herbal medicine.
33) Purification:
Purification relates to the concept of cleansing, especially in reference to traditional practices concerning blood or body ailments. The study discusses the folkloric practices involved in using certain plants for purification purposes, emphasizing ethnobotanical significance.
34) Raghavendra (Rāghavendra):
Raghavendra M.P. is a co-author of the study, signifying collaborative efforts in conducting research. Acknowledging all contributors assures the study's diversity in expertise, essential for comprehensive exploration of traditional medicinal practices.
35) Observation:
Observation denotes careful examination and documentation of traditional practices and plant uses. Collecting and analyzing observations from tribal communities is crucial for accurately understanding and preserving indigenous knowledge surrounding medicinal plants.
36) Education:
Education pertains to the knowledge systems within tribal communities. The study highlights gaps in formal education, suggesting that traditional knowledge is often passed down orally and emphasizing the need for educational initiatives within these communities.
37) Tamilnadu (Tamil-nadu, Tamilnāḍu):
Tamilnadu is a neighboring state of Kerala. Its geographical and cultural proximity to Wayanad highlights the potential similarities in traditional practices and medicinal plants used, indicating a broader context for ethnomedicine in southern India.
38) Vadakara (Vāḍakara, Vādakara, Vada-kara):
Vadakara refers to a taluk in Kerala adjacent to Wayanad. Studying medicinal practices across these regions may reveal shared knowledge bases and diversified uses of local flora in traditional healing systems.
39) Maharani (Mahārāṇī, Mahārānī):
Maharani’s Science College for Women in Mysore represents an institution contributing to the study's framework. This collaboration provides academic credibility and reflects the interconnection between education and traditional knowledge, enhancing research outcomes.
40) Turmeric:
Turmeric is a well-known plant used for its medicinal properties, especially in treating inflammation and infections. Its mention in the study underscores the role of well-established traditional remedies and their connections to the researched plants' properties.
41) Training:
Training indicates the informal way in which traditional knowledge is transmitted among community members. The study notes that many practitioners inherit their skills, reflecting the importance of experiential learning in maintaining and evolving ethnomedicinal practices.
42) Language:
Language represents the medium through which traditional knowledge is shared. The study's reliance on local language interactions during data collection emphasizes the importance of cultural context and communication in understanding and documenting ethnomedicine.
43) Lakshmi (Lakṣmī):
Lakshmi refers to Jhansi Lakshmi Bai Road in Mysore, acting as a geographical reference for the co-author's institution. Such associations provide context to the research environment, embedding the study within its academic and cultural setting.
44) Village:
Village refers to the community where the tribal populations reside and practice traditional medicine. Studying these villages is essential for gaining insights into local healthcare practices and how they relate to broader societal health outcomes.
45) Overuse:
Overuse pertains to the excessive application of antibiotics leading to resistance issues. This research highlights the significance of exploring alternative treatments through natural resources, aiming to mitigate the detrimental effects of antibiotic overuse.
46) Company:
Company refers to businesses involved in the production or distribution of medicinal products. The relevance of this term is observed when discussing the contemporary implications of traditional medicine and potential partnerships for ecologically sustainable drug development.
47) Itching:
Itching represents a common symptom associated with various skin conditions, often treated using traditional herbal remedies. The study explores specific plant extracts that may alleviate itching, highlighting the significance of local knowledge in managing dermatological issues.
48) Kurinci (Kuriñci):
Kurinji refers to a local plant, which is part of the diverse flora discussed in the study. Recognizing plants like Kurinji within the medicinal context emphasizes the importance of local biodiversity in addressing health concerns in tribal communities.
49) Forest:
Forest signifies the natural habitat where many medicinal plants are found. The study underscores the importance of preserving these ecosystems for sustainable utilization of biodiversity and the health of traditional communities reliant on these resources.
50) Family:
Family refers to the taxonomic classification grouping plants with similar characteristics. This study highlights the diversity of plant families from which medicinal species are drawn, emphasizing the ecological relationship among them and their applications in traditional medicine.
51) Nature:
Nature encapsulates the essence of the environment from which medicinal plants are sourced. The study emphasizes the importance of respecting and conserving natural resources while exploring their potential health benefits through ethnobotanical research.
52) Medium:
Medium refers to the substances used to extract bioactive compounds from plants. Different media, such as water and organic solvents, are employed to obtain extracts, which are critical to evaluating the medicinal properties of the studied plants.
53) Animal:
Animal refers to other biological sources from which natural medicines may be derived. While the study focuses on plants, it acknowledges that diverse sources contribute to traditional medicine, indicating a holistic approach to healthcare.
54) Field:
Field indicates the area of study, encompassing both the phytochemical analyses and ethnobotanical surveys. Field research is pivotal for understanding traditional practices and the environmental context in which these medicinal plants are utilized effectively.
55) Fever:
Fever represents a common illness treated using various medicinal plants. Addressing fever in tribal communities reflects the practical application of plant remedies, underscoring the need for further exploration of their therapeutic efficacy against common health issues.
56) Raja (Rāja, Rājā):
Raja represents a title or name linked to the co-author's institution or historical context, situating the study within a broader narrative. Recognizing historical figures or names in research also emphasizes the cultural richness surrounding traditional medicinal knowledge.
57) Fish:
Fish refers to a common ingredient in local diets, particularly in Kerala. This mention within the context of traditional medicine underscores how food culture interconnects with medicinal practices, especially in the preparation and use of plant extracts.
58) Road:
Road likely references the connectivity of rural communities to educational or research institutions. The accessibility of participants, in terms of transportation and communication, is crucial for effective field research in ethnobotanical studies.
59) Salt (Salty):
Salt denotes a substance used in traditional dishes and may also be used in herbal remedies. The inclusion of salt in preparation methods by tribal communities may reflect the intricate relationship between culinary practices and medicinal applications.