Animal Remedies in Brazil's Traditional Medicine
Author Information
Author(s): Alves Rômulo RN, Lima Helenice N, Tavares Marília C, Souto Wedson MS, Barboza Raynner RD, Vasconcellos Alexandre
Primary Institution: Universidade Estadual da Paraíba
Hypothesis
What animal species are used for medicinal purposes in Brazil's semi-arid region?
Conclusion
A large variety of animals are used in traditional medicinal practices in Brazil's semi-arid northeastern region.
Supporting Evidence
- 37 animal species were found to be used for medicinal purposes.
- The most frequently cited treatments focused on the respiratory system, particularly asthma.
- Two medicinal species were identified that were not previously documented for Brazil.
- The use of animals as remedies is influenced by socio-economic and cultural factors.
- Some medicinal animal species encountered are included in lists of endangered species.
Takeaway
People in northeastern Brazil use many different animals to help treat sickness, like asthma. They believe these animal remedies work because of local traditions.
Methodology
Field surveys and interviews with merchants in public markets.
Potential Biases
Potential bias from the merchants' knowledge and willingness to share information.
Limitations
The study may not capture all medicinal animal species used in the region due to the non-random sampling method.
Participant Demographics
16 merchants (9 men and 7 women) aged 46 to 65, mostly with low formal education.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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