Investigation of ethno-botanical pharmaceuticals in Eastern Ghats tribes.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: An investigation on pharmaceutical ethno botanicals used by the primitive tribes of five areas in the eastern ghats of india
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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R. Latha and Agastian. P
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: An investigation on pharmaceutical ethno botanicals used by the primitive tribes of five areas in the eastern ghats of india
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
India is recognized for its rich biodiversity, particularly its indigenous flora and fauna with significant therapeutic potential. Among its diverse medicinal plants, over 6000 species are utilized in local health traditions, forming an integral part of cultural heritage. Ethno medicinal practices are crucial in developing countries, especially where modern healthcare systems may be inaccessible. This study investigates the traditional use of medicinal plants by primitive tribes in the Eastern Ghats of India, focusing on documenting their ethnobotanical knowledge and medicinal practices.
Conservation of Traditional Knowledge
One of the key findings of the research is the urgent need for the conservation of traditional knowledge regarding medicinal plants. The survey identified 355 plant species utilized by local tribal communities for treating a variety of ailments, including diabetes, respiratory issues, and skin diseases. Alarmingly, approximately 20% of the documented uses were new, highlighting the rich but underexplored medicinal wealth in these areas. However, the knowledge is rapidly vanishing, particularly as younger generations show less interest in continuing traditional practices. This emphasizes the critical need for documenting and preserving this knowledge.
Biodiversity and Plant Use
The study revealed the biodiversity richness of the Eastern Ghats, with over 353 plant species documented across five different areas—Kolli Hills exhibited the highest diversity. Each area showcased unique plant species used for specific ailments, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of local ethnomedicine. For instance, the extensive use of various parts of plants—such as leaves, roots, and stems—by these communities is indicative of their deep-rooted understanding of the therapeutic benefits of local flora, passed down through generations.
Ethnomedicinal Applications
The ethnomedicinal practices among these tribes showcase a wide range of treatments for various ailments. For example, certain plants were commonly used to treat respiratory issues, with species like Adhatoda zeylanica and Vitex negundo cited frequently for asthma and cold relief. The investigation underscored that fresh plant parts were predominantly used for preparing remedies, reinforcing the strong connection between these communities and their natural surroundings. This knowledge not only serves local health care but also presents opportunities for further pharmacological research and potential drug development.
Conclusion
The investigation into the medicinal plants used by the tribes in the Eastern Ghats of India highlights both a rich repository of traditional knowledge and the pressing need for conservation efforts. The results stress the importance of documenting ethnobotanical insights to ensure the transmission of this vital knowledge across generations. Collaborative efforts between government bodies and NGOs are essential for developing strategies to preserve these traditional practices and enhance further scientific exploration of the therapeutic potential of these medicinal plants, thus supporting the health care systems of local communities while contributing to global biodiversity conservation.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the focus of the research conducted in Eastern Ghats?
The research focuses on the investigation of traditional medicinal plants used by primitive tribes in five areas of the Eastern Ghats in India, documenting their therapeutic uses and conservation status.
How many plant species were identified in this study?
A total of 355 plant species belonging to 87 families were identified and documented, showcasing their various medicinal uses and applications in traditional healthcare practices.
What methods were used for data collection in this research?
The researchers employed guided field-walks, interviews with local tribes, and traditional healers to gather detailed information on medicinal plant usage and their therapeutic applications.
What type of ailments are treated with medicinal plants in the study area?
The medicinal plants are used to treat a variety of ailments, including respiratory issues, diabetes, skin diseases, digestive problems, kidney disorders, and more, highlighting the plants' diverse therapeutic potentials.
Why is the documentation of traditional medicinal knowledge important?
Documenting traditional medicinal knowledge is vital for preserving cultural heritage, ensuring the sustainability of these practices, and facilitating scientific research for developing novel pharmaceuticals from these natural resources.
What challenges do traditional medicinal practices currently face?
Challenges include the loss of knowledge among younger generations, socio-economic factors, and the marginalization of traditional practices, necessitating active efforts for conservation and revitalization of this cultural wisdom.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Investigation of ethno-botanical pharmaceuticals in Eastern Ghats tribes.”. 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) Fever:
Fever is a common physiological response indicating an increase in body temperature, usually due to infection or illness. In traditional medicine practices in India, various herbal remedies are utilized to alleviate fever, showcasing the significance of medicinal plants in the healthcare of tribal communities.
2) Latta:
Latha refers to the first author of the study on ethno medicinal plants used by tribes in the Eastern Ghats of India. Her work underscores the importance of documenting traditional knowledge and practices related to medicinal plants, highlighting cultural heritage and biodiversity.
3) Disease:
Disease refers to a pathological condition of a bodily part, an organism, or system resulting from various causes. Understanding the diverse ailments treated by tribal communities with medicinal plants emphasizes the role of ethnomedicine in addressing health issues prevalent in their environment.
4) India:
India is a country rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage, known for its extensive use of medicinal plants. The study conducted here highlights the traditional practices of various tribes in utilizing local flora to treat ailments, reflecting India’s deep-rooted association with ethno medicine.
5) Table:
Tables in the context of research articles serve as organized summaries of data, providing quick access to the information related to medicinal plants, their uses, and their threat status. They facilitate easy comparisons and analysis of findings from ethnobotanical studies.
6) Study (Studying):
The study involves systematic research to investigate the medicinal plants used by tribal communities in the Eastern Ghats of India. It aims to document traditional healing practices, highlighting the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge amidst modernization and environmental changes.
7) Species:
Species refer to specific groups of plants identified in the study. The investigation lists 355 plant species utilized for various medicinal purposes, emphasizing biodiversity and the potential pharmacological properties of these plants, which are critical for healthcare in local communities.
8) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses the compounds used to cure or alleviate health problems. Ethno medicine, as practiced by tribal groups in India, relies on plant-based remedies, underscoring the role of traditional knowledge and the need for integrating such practices into modern healthcare.
9) Ghat (Gham):
In this context, 'Ghat' refers to the mountainous ranges known as the Eastern Ghats. This region is distinguished by its rich biodiversity and serves as a habitat for numerous plant species utilized by indigenous tribes for medicinal purposes, emphasizing cultural preservation and environmental conservation.
10) Knowledge:
Knowledge refers to the traditional understanding and wisdom related to medicinal plants passed down through generations within tribal communities. Documenting this knowledge is vital for the conservation of biodiversity and the continued use of these plants for health and healing.
11) Family:
In botanical taxonomy, 'family' groups various species that share common characteristics. This classification helps in organizing the vast array of medicinal plants identified in the study, providing insight into their relationships and ecological importance in traditional medicine.
12) Ulcer:
An ulcer is a sore that develops on the skin or mucous membranes and is often treated with various herbal remedies as indicated in the study. The identification of plants used for treating ulcers by the ethnic groups highlights the significance of ethnomedicine.
13) Pain:
Pain is an unpleasant sensory experience that often indicates underlying health issues. Ethnobotanical studies reveal the variety of plants used by tribal groups to manage pain, showcasing the importance of traditional healing methods in rural healthcare systems.
14) Inflammation:
Inflammation refers to the body’s response to injury or infection, often causing redness, swelling, and pain. Various medicinal plants documented in the study are shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties, thereby addressing common ailments within tribal populations.
15) Tamil:
Tamil is a major Dravidian language spoken predominantly in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, India. The study highlights traditional uses of medicinal plants among Tamil-speaking tribes, reflecting cultural practices and indigenous knowledge in managing health through local flora.
16) Tree:
Trees play a significant role in the ecosystem and are a crucial source of medicinal plants. The study emphasizes various tree species used in traditional medicine by tribal communities in the Eastern Ghats, highlighting their ecological and cultural significance.
17) Snake-bite:
Snake-bite represents a medical emergency involving venomous snake encounters. Traditional medicinal practices, as documented in the study, often include specific plants known for their antidotal properties, showcasing the importance of ethno medicinal knowledge in managing such emergencies.
18) Rich (Rch):
Rich denotes the high diversity and abundance of resources, including medicinal plants in the Eastern Ghats. The wealth of traditional knowledge among the tribes underscores the area's ecological richness and its potential for sustainable medicine.
19) Tamilnadu (Tamil-nadu):
Tamilnadu is a state in southern India with a rich cultural heritage and biodiversity. The study showcases the local practices and knowledge regarding medicinal plants, emphasizing the integration of traditional medicine within the region's healthcare systems.
20) Nadu:
Nadu is a term used to denote a land or region in Tamil, commonly used in the names of various states in India. It is indicative of local identity and heritage, significant in the context of traditional medicine practices discussed in the study.
21) Burning (Burn, Burned, Burnt):
Burn refers to tissue damage caused by heat, chemicals, or radiation. Traditional practices often include the use of specific medicinal plants to treat burns, reflecting the application of herbal remedies in mitigating pain and promoting healing within indigenous healthcare.
22) Field:
Field denotes the areas where plants are studied and collected. In ethnobotanical research, guided field walks allow researchers to gather first-hand knowledge of medicinal plants used by local communities, emphasizing hands-on learning and documentation of practices.
23) Hair:
Hair relates to the treatment of scalp and hair health in traditional medicine. The study includes ethnobotanical knowledge of specific plants used to enhance hair growth or treat scalp conditions, showcasing the diversity of medicinal applications.
24) Wall:
Wall, in the context of the study, may refer to barriers or boundaries within geographical or cultural contexts. Understanding these aspects can be crucial when studying the dissemination of traditional knowledge, including medicinal practices across communities.
25) Terminalia chebula:
Terminalia chebula, known as Haritaki, is a tree with significant medicinal properties. It is often used in traditional medicine for its health benefits, including digestive health and wound healing, as documented in the survey among tribal communities.
26) Withania somnifera:
Withania somnifera, or Ashwagandha, is a prominently used herb in traditional medicine known for its adaptogenic properties. The study highlights its usage by local tribes for stress relief and overall well-being, showcasing its importance in ethnopharmacology.
27) Asparagus racemosus:
Asparagus racemosus, also known as Shatavari, is a medicinal plant valued for its revitalizing properties, especially in female health. The study's findings emphasize its traditional use in the unique ethnobotanical practices of the Eastern Ghats.
28) Swelling:
Swelling indicates an abnormal enlargement of body parts due to fluid accumulation or inflammation. Traditional remedies from various plants observed in the study showcase their effectiveness in treating swelling and related conditions, reinforcing the role of ethnobotany.
29) Nannari:
Nannari (Hemidesmus indicus) is a medicinal plant traditionally used in Ayurvedic practices for its cooling properties. The documentation of its use highlights the integration of local flora in healthcare among tribal communities in the Eastern Ghats.
30) Village:
Village refers to small rural communities, often where traditional medicinal practices are preserved. The study emphasizes the rich ethnobotanical knowledge existing within these villages, reflecting the connection between local culture and the use of medicinal plants.
31) Leprosy:
Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease that can cause severe skin lesions and nerve damage. Traditional knowledge may include plants with properties to manage symptoms, highlighting the significance of continued research in ethnomedicine for treating such ailments.
32) Forest:
Forest ecosystems are vital sources of biodiversity, including many medicinal plants utilized by indigenous tribes. The study underscores the reliance of local communities on forest resources for their healthcare needs, emphasizing conservation and sustainable practices.
33) Blood:
Blood relates to various health conditions and treatments in traditional medicine, including purification and disorders affecting it. Ethnobotanical practices often include plants believed to enhance blood health, showcasing the breadth of medicinal applications documented in the study.
34) Sida (Shida):
Sida refers to a genus of flowering plants known for their health benefits, commonly utilized in traditional remedies for various ailments. The study includes Sida species that are integral to the medicinal knowledge of local tribes.
35) Drug:
Drugs refer to substances used for medical purposes. Ethnobotanical surveys like this one highlight the importance of plant-derived drugs that have been used traditionally, which can lead to modern pharmacological discoveries and innovations.
36) Dioscorea bulbifera:
Dioscorea bulbifera, known for its tubers, is a climbing plant used in traditional medicine for various health issues. Its inclusion in the study illustrates the diversity of plant usage among tribal communities for remedy preparation.
37) Santalum album:
Santalum album, commonly known as sandalwood, is revered for its aromatic properties and therapeutic applications in traditional practices. The study focuses on its importance, particularly in skincare and healing therapies prevalent in local medicinal practices.
38) Acorus calamus:
Acorus calamus, or sweet flag, is known for its medicinal properties, often used to treat digestive issues. The incorporation of this plant in research highlights its traditional significance among ethnic groups in utilizing local flora for health benefits.
39) Developing:
Developing refers to countries or regions that are growing economically but may rely heavily on traditional practices. The study emphasizes the role of traditional knowledge in the healthcare systems of developing areas, particularly in the context of medicinal plants.
40) Mountain:
Mountains serve as unique ecosystems that host diverse species, including numerous medicinal plants. The study indicates the importance of mountain ranges like the Eastern Ghats, where local tribes utilize native flora for various health remedies.
41) Epilepsy:
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. Traditional medicinal practices may involve using specific plants believed to help manage or alleviate symptoms, which are documented in ethnobotanical studies like this one.
42) Irula:
The Irula people are an indigenous tribal community in Southern India known for their extensive knowledge of medicinal plants. Their traditional practices and use of plants for healing emphasize the importance of cultural heritage in ethnobotanical research.
43) Anogeissus latifolia:
Anogeissus latifolia, commonly known as Axle wood, is recognized for its medicinal uses, particularly in treating gastrointestinal issues. Its presence in the study showcases the diversity of plant-based remedies known among local tribes.
44) Glycyrrhiza glabra:
Glycyrrhiza glabra, or licorice, is valued for its sweet flavor and medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory effects. The study documents its use among tribal healers, emphasizing the plant's significance in traditional medicine.
45) Rubia cordifolia:
Rubia cordifolia, commonly known as Indian madder, is a plant recognized for its dyeing properties and medicinal uses, including treatment for skin conditions. Its inclusion in ethnobotanical studies underscores its versatility and importance in traditional practices.
46) Cyperus rotundus:
Cyperus rotundus, or nut grass, is a plant used in traditional medicine for a variety of ailments, including digestive disorders. Its documentation in the study highlights the profound knowledge of indigenous tribes in utilizing local resources.
47) Spider poison (Spider venom):
Spider poisoning refers to the potential harmful effects of spider bites. Traditional medicine often includes antidotes derived from local plants, showcasing the relationship between local flora and the treatment of animal bites, including spider bites.
48) Indigofera tinctoria:
Indigofera tinctoria, known for producing indigo dye, also holds medicinal properties used traditionally for various ailments. Its significance in the study illustrates the dual use of plants in cultural practices and healthcare in tribal communities.
49) Tribulus terrestris:
Tribulus terrestris is a plant acknowledged for its potential health benefits and traditional uses, particularly in enhancing fertility and libido. The study underscores the plant's relevance in the ethnomedicinal practices of indigenous populations.
50) Plumbago zeylanica:
Plumbago zeylanica, known as leadwort, is used in folk medicine for treating wounds and inflammation. Its mention in the study highlights its significance in traditional healing and the diversity of medicinal plants employed by local tribes.
51) Abrus precatorius:
Abrus precatorius, or rosary pea, possesses toxic properties that require careful usage in traditional medicine. Documenting its use emphasizes the intricate knowledge tribal communities have regarding both beneficial and harmful aspects of indigenous plants.
52) Michelia champaca:
Michelia champaca, known for its fragrant flowers, is valued for its medicinal properties including its use in treating respiratory problems. Its documentation in the study reflects its importance in local herbal treatments and cultural practices.
53) Terminalia arjuna:
Terminalia arjuna is a medicinal tree used extensively for heart-related ailments. The use of this plant in traditional medicine, as identified in the study, showcases the significant role of specific species in promoting health among tribal communities.
54) Syzygium cumini:
Syzygium cumini, commonly known as jamun, is a fruit-bearing tree recognized for its medicinal uses, especially in managing diabetes. The study documents its importance in traditional medicine, linking dietary practices with health benefits.
55) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological refers to the branch of medicine concerned with the uses, effects, and modes of action of drugs. The study emphasizes the potential for traditional knowledge to inspire new pharmacological research based on plants used by indigenous tribes.
56) Aegle marmelos:
Aegle marmelos, known as bael, is a medicinal plant utilized in traditional practices for digestive health and as a remedy for several ailments. Its documentation signifies the cultural importance of this plant in the local healthcare system.
57) Embelia ribes:
Embelia ribes is known for its anti-parasitic and anti-inflammatory properties. Documentation of this plant highlights its traditional uses and reinforces the connection between local flora and health practices in tribal communities.
58) Science (Scientific):
Scientific refers to a systematic and methodical approach to knowledge acquisition. The study emphasizes the importance of applying scientific methods in researching and documenting traditional medicinal practices, bridging the gap between modern science and indigenous knowledge.
59) Language:
Language facilitates communication of traditional knowledge surrounding herbal medicine. In the study, the use of local dialects highlights the significance of language in preserving cultural and medicinal knowledge among indigenous populations.
60) Bleeding:
Bleeding refers to loss of blood from the body, often a medical emergency. Traditional remedies often aim to treat or stop bleeding, showcasing the diverse applications of plant-based treatments documented in the ethnobotanical survey.
61) Chennai:
Chennai is a major city in Tamil Nadu, India, and a hub for education and research. The context of ethnobotanical studies in and around Chennai highlights the city’s relevance in preserving traditional healing practices and biodiversity.
62) Arjuna:
Arjuna commonly refers to Terminalia arjuna, a tree noted for its heart health benefits in traditional medicine. The study documents its applications, showcasing the significance of local flora in managing health issues prevalent in tribal communities.
63) Kumari:
Kumari refers to a traditional term denoting young, unmarried women in Tamil culture. Within the context of the study, it might highlight roles individuals play in transmitting traditional medicinal knowledge within their communities.
64) Spider:
Spider denotes a type of arachnid that can cause bites, leading to potential health risks. Traditional knowledge includes specific plants utilized to mitigate the effects of spider bites, emphasizing the relevance of ethno medicine in addressing animals' interactions.
65) Insect:
Insects are small arthropods that can impact human health through bites or stings. The study recognizes traditional remedies for insect bites, highlighting the local knowledge and practices employed by tribes to address such ailments.
66) Tutti:
Thuthi refers to Abutilon indicum, a plant commonly used in traditional medicine. Its inclusion in the study showcases the rich medicinal flora utilized by local communities and their applications in healthcare.
67) Costus:
Costus generally refers to the genus associated with several medicinal plants. The documentation of its traditional uses emphasizes the role of specific species in effective treatment regimens among tribalers in the study area.
68) Nelli:
Nelli generally refers to Phyllanthus emblica (Indian gooseberry), a highly revered fruit in traditional medicine for its health benefits, including enhancing immunity. Its identification underscores the importance of local fruits in tribal medicinal practices.
69) Kila:
Keela typically denotes Phyllanthus species noted for their medicinal properties and use in traditional practices. It reinforces the valuable contributions of specific plants in managing various health issues among tribal communities.
70) Worm:
Worm refers to parasitic infestations that can affect overall health. The study identifies various plants used traditionally to treat worm infestations, illustrating the practical applications of plant-derived remedies in indigenous medicine.
71) Milk:
Milk, particularly that from cows, is a key source of nutrition in many cultures. In traditional practices, milk is often used in conjunction with plant-based remedies to enhance health benefits or treat various ailments.
72) Cow milk (Cow's milk):
Cow's milk is an essential dietary component in Indian culture, often utilized in traditional medicine for its nutritional and healing properties. Its inclusion in the study emphasizes its role in enhancing the effects of herbal remedies.
73) Tinospora cordifolia:
Tinospora cordifolia, known as Giloy, is revered in traditional medicine for its immune-boosting properties. The study highlights its significance, reflecting indigenous understanding of plant benefits in promoting health and treating illnesses.
74) Zingiber officinale:
Zingiber officinale, or ginger, is a widely used spice with numerous health benefits. Its documentation in medicinal practices reflects its importance in traditional healing and dietary applications, particularly among ethnic groups in the study area.
75) Azadirachta indica:
Azadirachta indica, known as neem, is esteemed for its antimicrobial properties. Its inclusion in traditional remedies reflects the plant's widespread use in preventing and treating health issues in local communities, underscoring its significance in ethnomedicine.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 144]