Ethnoveterinary practices in palpa district of western nepal

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Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Ethnoveterinary practices in palpa district of western nepal
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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Original source:

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Author:

Dr. Anant Gopal Singh


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Ethnoveterinary practices in palpa district of western nepal

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20165-6143


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The study focuses on the ethnoveterinary practices in Palpa District, Western Nepal, where indigenous approaches to healthcare for livestock are documented. Conducted by Dr. Anant Gopal Singh, the research highlights the use of 28 plant species from 26 genera and 22 families by local communities for treating various ailments in their animals. Traditional plant-based remedies hold significant cultural importance, especially in rural areas where modern veterinary services may not be readily available.

Traditional Knowledge and Its Challenges

The ethno-veterinary knowledge in Palpa is primarily held by a few knowledgeable elders within the indigenous community, whose expertise is often transmitted orally. This traditional wisdom, however, faces significant threats from modernization and the younger generation’s diminishing interest in these practices. Factors contributing to this trend include a decline in the recognition of traditional healers, better access to modern healthcare facilities, and the economic realities of traditional healing practices. As a result, there is a risk of losing invaluable knowledge about local flora and its applications in livestock health, necessitating urgent efforts for documentation and preservation.

Usage of Medicinal Plants

The research revealed that the majority of the remedies used by villagers are derived from leaves, rhizomes, and tender shoots, indicating their presumed strong medicinal properties. The study cataloged various plant parts used for treating ailments such as skin diseases, digestive issues, fevers, and wounds in livestock. Specific plants like Acorus calamus and Allium sativum were identified for their unique applications, from external application on wounds to internal consumption for digestive problems. This wide array of treatments underscores the diversity of plant usage in local veterinary practices.

Impact of Environmental Changes

The availability of medicinal plants is shrinking due to rapid deforestation and the expansion of urban developments encroaching on agricultural lands. Informants noted that they must now travel further to source these plants, which were once plentiful in closer proximity. This environmental degradation poses a dual problem: it threatens the ecological balance and the traditional practices that rely on these resources. The study emphasizes the need for both conservation efforts and sustainable practices to ensure the continuity of these medicinal resources.

Conclusion

In summary, Dr. Singh's research sheds light on the critical role of traditional ethno-veterinary practices in Palpa District, which highlight the deep knowledge of local communities regarding medicinal plants. However, this knowledge is at risk due to generational shifts and environmental changes. The findings serve as a call to action for documentation and conservation initiatives that honor traditional practices and secure the future of invaluable medicinal plant knowledge among indigenous populations. The study not only enriches the body of ethnobotanical knowledge but also emphasizes the need for sustainable practices to maintain the delicate balance between tradition and modernity.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What was the focus of the ethnobotanical study in Palpa District?

The study documented ethnoveterinary practices, highlighting the use of 28 plant species for treating various livestock ailments, informed by local knowledgeable persons.

How many plant species were utilized for livestock treatment?

A total of 28 plant species belonging to 26 genera and 22 families were identified during the study, with various parts of these plants being used medicinally.

What types of ailments were treated using traditional plant remedies?

Commonly treated ailments included skin diseases, stomach disorders, cough, cold, fever, and muscular issues, with traditional remedies being integral to local livestock healthcare.

Why is traditional knowledge of plant use at risk?

The decline in interest from younger generations, rapid urbanization, and loss of forest resources threaten the preservation of traditional knowledge about plant-based remedies.

How was data collected for this ethnobotanical study?

Data collection involved field surveys, interviews with local healers, and direct observation of plant use for treating livestock, ensuring thorough and validated information gathering.

What are the implications of losing traditional veterinary practices?

The loss of traditional knowledge may result in a reduced understanding of local medicinal resources and the disappearance of effective, accessible treatments for livestock in rural areas.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Ethnoveterinary practices in palpa district of western nepal”. 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) Disease:
Disease refers to conditions that affect the health of livestock. The study highlights various ailments affecting animals in Palpa District, such as skin diseases, stomach disorders, and fevers, demonstrating the importance of traditional medicinal practices in treating these health issues through locally sourced plant materials.

2) Study (Studying):
The study involves ethnobotanical research on traditional veterinary practices in Palpa District, Western Nepal. It aims to document the use of medicinal plants by local communities for livestock treatment, emphasizing the significance of indigenous knowledge and the necessity for its preservation amidst changing lifestyles and environmental factors.

3) Species:
Species in this context refers to the diverse types of plants identified in the research, specifically the 28 plant species used for treating livestock ailments. Understanding these species allows for better appreciation of local biodiversity and the role of specific plants in traditional medicine.

4) Knowledge:
Knowledge encompasses the traditional understanding and application of medicinal plants for veterinary purposes, held primarily by older generations in the community. The study underscores the urgency to document this knowledge, which is at risk of being lost due to modernization and diminishing interest among younger individuals.

5) Forest:
The forest is a critical resource in Palpa District, providing access to various medicinal plants used for treating livestock. The study highlights the reliance of local communities on forest resources for healthcare, alongside the growing concerns about deforestation and the subsequent loss of knowledge related to these vital plants.

6) Medicine:
Medicine in this context refers to the use of plant materials for treating health issues in livestock. The research showcases traditional veterinary practices, emphasizing the importance of herbal remedies as sustainable and accessible alternatives to modern pharmaceuticals, especially for rural populations with limited resources.

7) Field:
Field signifies the physical environment where the research is conducted. The extensive field surveys allowed the author to observe plant usage in their natural habitat, facilitating the understanding of local ecological dynamics and how communities interact with and utilize their environment for medicinal purposes.

8) Village:
Village represents the small, rural communities within Palpa District where the study was conducted. The traditional practices of these villages serve as a window into the local culture and social structures that dictate how knowledge about ethnoveterinary medicine is passed down and maintained.

9) Table:
Table refers to the organized presentation of data compiled during the study. It includes detailed information on the plant species used, their medicinal applications, and preparation methods, providing a clear reference that supports the findings of the ethnobotanical survey.

10) Worm:
Worm pertains to intestinal parasites that affect livestock health, for which local communities utilize specific medicinal plants. The study documents practices for treating worm infestations, showcasing the importance of traditional remedies in maintaining livestock health and highlighting local biodiversity.

11) Animal:
Animal signifies the livestock at the center of the study's focus. The research addresses various ailments affecting these animals and emphasizes the role of traditional plant-based treatments as essential for the welfare of livestock within local agricultural practices.

12) Fever:
Fever refers to a common ailment among livestock mentioned in the study. The research highlights various traditional plant remedies utilized to address fever, demonstrating the reliance on local knowledge to manage animal health issues through ethnoveterinary practices.

13) Swelling:
Swelling describes a physical symptom that occurs in livestock due to injury or infection. The study records traditional treatments using specific plant materials to alleviate swelling, showcasing the locals' comprehensive understanding of veterinary care through accessible herbal remedies.

14) Bleeding:
Bleeding is a serious health concern for livestock. The study provides insights into traditional methods employed by local farmers to manage bleeding using various plant species, underlining the crucial role of ethnoveterinary practices in ensuring animal health and wellbeing.

15) Family:
Family in botanical terms categorizes the plant species used in veterinary practices. The research emphasizes the number of families represented among the identified plants, highlighting biodiversity and the shared qualities that facilitate their medicinal applications in livestock healthcare.

16) Burning (Burn, Burned, Burnt):
Burn refers to skin injuries among livestock that require effective treatment. The study identifies traditional plant remedies used to treat burns, illustrating local communities' reliance on their herbal knowledge to promote healing and maintain animal health.

17) Pur:
Poor reflects the socioeconomic conditions of many rural communities in Nepal, where access to modern veterinary care may be limited. The study underscores the importance of traditional knowledge and practices for economically disadvantaged populations relying on local resources for livestock health.

18) Science (Scientific):
Scientific refers to the need for rigorous validation of traditional remedies documented in the study. Although the local methods are rooted in longstanding practices, the study suggests that scientific inquiry is essential to establish efficacy and document the therapeutic potential of these plants.

19) Mountain:
Mountain alludes to the geographical features of Palpa District, which influence climate and biodiversity. The topography affects the distribution of medicinal plants used in veterinary practices, stressing the need to understand regional agriculture and local ecological practices in relation to animal husbandry.

20) Language:
Language indicates the communication medium through which knowledge of traditional veterinary practices is transmitted. The study employed local languages for interviews, highlighting cultural nuances in plant use and the preservation of local knowledge systems within the community.

21) Habitat:
Habitat refers to the natural environments of the identified plant species within the region. Understanding plant habitats is crucial for preserving traditional practices and biodiversity, and the study emphasizes the relationship between local livelihoods and the sustainability of these natural resources.

22) Mahato:
Mahato is a reference to an author who has contributed to folklore studies in Palpa District. The study builds on existing literature, integrating local cultural perspectives and prior research into the documentation of traditional knowledge regarding livestock healthcare.

23) Powder:
Powder describes a method of preparing traditional remedies from the plant materials documented in the study. Various plant parts are processed into powders for treating livestock ailments, emphasizing the adaptability and practicality of local medicinal practices in managing health issues.

24) Campu:
Campu refers to the campus of Tribhuvan University where the author is affiliated. The university plays a role in supporting research initiatives that document indigenous knowledge and promote the conservation of traditional practices through academic rigor and collaboration with local communities.

25) Food:
Food indicates the role of certain medicinal plants in livestock nutrition. The study highlights how some plants are incorporated into animal feed, enhancing health and productivity, thereby linking traditional medicine with local agricultural practices and food security.

26) Wall:
Wall in this context may refer to barriers that could hinder the transmission of traditional knowledge. The study underscores the importance of creating supportive environments that foster the sharing of ethnoveterinary knowledge among communities, especially with younger generations.

27) Drug:
Drug refers to the medicinal properties of plants documented in the study. While traditional remedies form the basis of local veterinary practices, the term emphasizes the potential for integrating herbal medicine into broader healthcare frameworks that acknowledge both traditional and modern approaches.

28) Life:
Life signifies the fundamental importance of livestock within the rural livelihoods of the communities studied. The survival and wellbeing of these communities depend upon their animals for food, labor, and income, cementing the relevance of ethnoveterinary practices in daily life.

29) Phyllanthus emblica:
Phyllanthus emblica, commonly known as Amla, is a plant identified in the study for its medicinal uses in livestock treatment. Its relevance lies in its application in preparing remedies for digestive issues, highlighting the value of local flora in traditional animal healthcare.

30) Zingiber officinale:
Zingiber officinale, known as ginger, is another plant featured in the study. It is revered for its therapeutic properties in treating livestock ailments like cold and digestion-related issues, demonstrating the integration of common culinary herbs into veterinary practices.

31) Veterinary medicine:
Veterinary medicine encompasses the study and application of medical practices to treat animals. The research explores traditional veterinary practices in Palpa District, showcasing how local communities utilize indigenous knowledge of medicinal plants to address livestock health concerns.

32) Terminalia chebula:
Terminalia chebula, a plant known for its medicinal properties, is highlighted in the study. Employed in traditional remedies for digestive issues and overall health, its documentation illustrates the breadth of local knowledge surrounding effective plant uses in veterinary care.

33) Cynodon dactylon:
Cynodon dactylon, commonly known as Bermuda grass, is another plant mentioned in the research. Recognized for its role in treating wounds and enhancing lactation, it highlights the connection between common grasses and their value in traditional livestock healthcare systems.

34) Curcuma longa:
Curcuma longa, or turmeric, is a significant plant in the study noted for its use in treating various conditions such as skin diseases. The plant's anti-inflammatory properties underline the importance of integrating well-known spices into ethnoveterinary practices.

35) Terminalia bellirica:
Terminalia bellirica is known locally for its medicinal uses in addressing digestive ailments and is discussed in the study as part of the local ethnoveterinary practices. Its inclusion demonstrates the diverse applications of regional plants in livestock treatments.

36) Asparagus racemosus:
Asparagus racemosus, known for its benefits in enhancing lactation, is another plant featured in the study. Its use in traditional veterinary practices emphasizes the traditional knowledge surrounding animal husbandry and the application of various local flora.

37) Ficus religiosa:
Ficus religiosa, or sacred fig, plays a role in traditional remedies documented in the study. Its bark is utilized for treating wounds in livestock, showcasing the significance of culturally revered plants in local veterinary medicine.

38) Acorus calamus:
Acorus calamus, locally called Bojho, is recognized for its use in treating sores and wounds in livestock. The study’s documentation of this plant illustrates the rooted connection between traditional practices and effective natural remedies.

39) Allium sativum:
Allium sativum, known as garlic, is employed in treating various ailments in livestock within the study. Its applications as a medicinal herb, especially in skin infections and digestive issues, highlight the versatility of commonly used culinary plants in traditional veterinary practices.

40) Bombax ceiba:
Bombax ceiba, or silk cotton tree, is noted for its bark's application as a plaster for treating fractures in livestock. Its documentation reflects the local community's understanding of plant properties and the importance of traditional knowledge in animal healthcare.

41) Agriculture:
Agriculture serves as the foundation for the livelihoods of residents in Palpa District. The study highlights the interplay between traditional veterinary practices and agricultural activities, emphasizing the need for sustainable farming practices that consider livestock health and local biodiversity.

42) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the analytical portion of the research where findings are contextualized within the broader frameworks of ethnobotany and veterinary medicine. This section emphasizes the importance of preserving traditional practices and their contributions to sustainable livestock management.

43) Cannabis:
Cannabis, referenced in the study, indicates its traditional use among local communities for treating indigestion in cattle. Highlighting the plant's versatility showcases how traditional knowledge systems encompass a wide range of flora for various medicinal applications.

44) Brahmin:
Brahmin refers to one of the ethnic groups residing in Palpa District. The study recognizes the cultural diversity within the region and addresses how various ethnic groups, including Brahmins, contribute to the rich tapestry of traditional knowledge surrounding livestock healthcare.

45) Cutting:
Cutting may pertain to the harvesting practices of medicinal plants as described in the study. Sustainable cutting methods are crucial to preserving biodiversity while ensuring the availability of resources necessary for traditional veterinary practices.

46) Hunting:
Hunting relates to traditional practices engaged in by the Magar community for subsistence. While the study focuses on veterinary medicine, it acknowledges the broader context of indigenous practices that reflect the relationship between the community's economy, culture, and natural resources.

47) Shakya (Sakya):
Shakya is another reference to an author mentioned in the context of previous folklore studies. It contributes to the existing body of literature that informs the ethnobotanical research, illustrating the scholarly efforts to document traditional practices and biodiversity.

48) Gurung:
Gurung indicates another ethnic group within the study area, contributing to the cultural diversity and traditional knowledge related to animal health practices. The study reflects the interconnectedness of ethnic identities with their environmental and medicinal practices in livestock management.

49) Peepal:
Peepal, or Ficus religiosa, is a plant documented for its medicinal uses in treating livestock ailments. Its religious significance adds a cultural dimension to the understanding of its uses, reflecting how cultural beliefs intertwine with practical applications in traditional medicine.

50) Nepali:
Nepali refers to the language spoken by the local populace and denotes the identity of the national context wherein the study is situated. Understanding language is essential for effective communication and documentation of traditional knowledge about veterinary practices.

51) Reason:
Reason signifies the motivations that drive local communities to retain and practice traditional veterinary knowledge. Factors such as cultural heritage, accessibility of modern healthcare, and ecological sustainability play crucial roles in understanding these motivations as documented in the study.

52) Timber:
Timber references the resources derived from forests in Palpa District, which are essential for local construction and fuel. The study highlights the dual importance of forests for both ecological resources and the plant materials needed for traditional medicinal practices.

53) Summer:
Summer indicates the climatic conditions experienced in the Palpa District, which affects the availability of medicinal plants and the timing of agricultural activities. Climate influences the growth patterns of medicinal flora that are essential for local ethnoveterinary practices.

54) Farmer:
Farmer represents the local individuals who practice agriculture and animal husbandry in Palpa District. The study places emphasis on the farmers' reliance on traditional veterinary practices to maintain their livestock's health while supporting their livelihoods.

55) Newa (Newar, Newah, Newal):
Newar refers to one of the ethnic groups within Nepal that contributes to the rich cultural landscape in Palpa District. The study addresses how diverse ethnic traditions contribute to the local knowledge surrounding livestock health and the use of medicinal plants.

56) Ganja (Gamja):
Ganja is a term for cannabis, recognized for its traditional uses in veterinary medicine within local communities. Its inclusion showcases the multifaceted applications of plants and emphasizes the importance of traditional knowledge in managing livestock health.

57) Joshi (Josi):
Joshi references an author who has contributed to the literature on traditional medicine in Nepal. The citation acknowledges past works that inform the current research and highlights the importance of an academic framework in documenting ethnobotanical practices.

58) India:
India is referenced as a neighboring country that may influence the ecological and medicinal landscape in Palpa District. The cross-border flow of knowledge and plant species suggests interconnectedness of botanical practices in regional contexts.

59) Water:
Water refers to a vital resource for both plant and animal health. The study implies that the availability of water sources affects agricultural practices and the medicinal plants that can thrive, thus impacting traditional veterinary care.

60) Tulsi:
Tulsi, or holy basil, is another plant documented in the study for its various health benefits for livestock. It represents the intersection of culinary and medicinal practices, emphasizing the multifaceted uses of local flora in maintaining livestock wellbeing.

61) Pulse:
Pulse refers to leguminous crops cultivated in the region, contributing to local diets and farmer sustainability. The study emphasizes the importance of agricultural diversity, including pulses, in supporting both community health and livestock nutrition.

62) Visit:
Visit underscores the importance of field surveys and interactions with local knowledge holders during the research process. Such visits are crucial for gathering authentic data and maintaining community relationships, which enriches the understanding of ethnoveterinary practices.

63) Earth:
Earth signifies the natural environment that sustains diverse plant life used in traditional veterinary practices. The study highlights the importance of preserving ecological health, indicating that sustainable practices are necessary for the continued availability of medicinal plants.

64) Tapa:
Thapa refers to an author involved in earlier ethnobotanical studies, adding context to the research. Recognizing past scholarly contributions emphasizes the continuity and development of knowledge surrounding traditional practices and their documentation.

65) Amla:
Amla is the local name for Phyllanthus emblica, a plant recognized for its nutritional and medicinal properties. It illustrates the effectiveness of local flora in traditional veterinary treatments and highlights the rich ethnobotanical knowledge surrounding its use.

66) Alam (Alaṁ):
Alam references an author who has focused on ethnobotany and traditional practices in Nepal. The acknowledgment of previous research underscores the collaborative foundations upon which the current study is built, promoting knowledge sharing and cultural heritage preservation.

67) Tora:
Tora refers to Cassia tora, noted for its use among traditional veterinary practices. Its identification illustrates the specific plants valued by local communities for their medicinal applications, promoting the understanding and preservation of local plant knowledge.

68) Curd:
Curd, as a dietary component, signifies the importance of traditional sources of nutrition for livestock. The study mentions the use of curd in combination with plant remedies, highlighting practices that integrate dietary elements into medicinal treatments.

69) Rice (Rce):
Rice represents a staple food crop in the region, essential for local agriculture and diets. The study indicates that traditional practices are intertwined with staple crops like rice, promoting the benefits of combining agricultural sustainability with ethnoveterinary knowledge.

70) Fire:
Fire may refer to the utilization of firewood from surrounding forests, which is essential for local cooking or processing of medicinal plants. Its mention emphasizes the connection between environmental resources and livelihood practices for rural communities.

71) Salt (Salty):
Salt signifies a basic dietary requirement and its role in traditional treatments mentioned in the study. The combination of salt with herbal remedies showcases the practical applications of local resources in tailoring treatment methods for livestock health.

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