Traditional knowledge on zootherapeutic uses by the Saharia tribe of Rajasthan, India
2007

Traditional Medicine Uses by the Saharia Tribe in Rajasthan, India

Sample size: 21 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Mahawar Madan Mohan, Jaroli DP

Primary Institution: Department of Zoology, Government Post Graduate College, Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan, India

Hypothesis

What traditional knowledge exists regarding the use of animals and animal-derived products as medicine among the Saharia tribe?

Conclusion

The study found that the Saharia tribe uses 15 animal species for various medicinal purposes.

Supporting Evidence

  • The Saharia tribe uses 15 animal species for 19 medicinal purposes.
  • Goat urine is used to treat tuberculosis.
  • Camel milk is used for muscular pain.
  • Honey is used as eye drops for eye diseases.
  • The study highlights the need to conserve traditional knowledge and animal species.

Takeaway

The Saharia tribe uses different animals to help treat sickness, like using goat urine for coughs and turtle shells for burns.

Methodology

A field survey was conducted with 21 respondents using structured questionnaires to gather information on traditional animal-based remedies.

Potential Biases

Potential bias in responses due to the respondents' familiarity with certain remedies over others.

Limitations

The study may not capture all traditional knowledge as it relies on a limited number of respondents.

Participant Demographics

The respondents included 17 men and 4 women aged between 30-64, primarily local herbalists, healers, farmers, and midwives.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1746-4269-3-25

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