Pankaj Oudhia

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Traditional Medicinal Knowledge about medicinal herbs and insects in Indian State Chhattisgarh: Results of Ethnobotanical surveys conducted in year 2005. [Updated document, year 2010]

Pankaj Oudhia

Abstract

Table of Contents

1. Sardi Ke Tel.

2. Sickling Bar Kadha.

3. Khoon Saaf Kare Ke Dawa.

4. Baal Ke Raksha Bar Dawa.

5. Pelea Ke Dawa.

6. Bariyara Ke Upyog.

7. Guruch Ke Upyog.

8. Jadi Buti Ke Durlabh Upyog.

9. Pelea Bar Ninda Ke Upyog.

10. Sanp Kate Ke Upchar.

12. Bavasir Ke Upchar.

13. Khaj Ke Upchar.

14. Pet Ke Gadbadi Ke Dawa.

15. Aushadhi Dhan Ke Upyog.

16. Doobi Ke Tel.

17. Jahar Ke Dava.

18. Mirgi Ke Malish Bar Tel.

19. Bukhar Bar Dhoop.

20. Doodh Se Baas Hataiy Ke Upaiy.

21. Mirgi Ke Dawa.

22. Pelea Ke Dawa.

23. Purana Bukhar Ke Dawa.

24. Peela Parsa Ke Dawa.

25. Laika Mun Ke Malish Bar Tel.

26. Pias Mitaiy Ke Upaiy.

27. Vidari Ke Tel.

28. Gulbakawali Jadi Ke Upyog.

1. Sardi Ke Tel.

Since long time I was observing the use of specific medicinal oil by the traditional healers of Southern Chhattisgarh. First time I found this oil from the herb vendors. They sell it to the patients as well as the traditional healers of other states in the name of Sardi Ke Tel i.e. oil for common cough and cold. This special oil is well known and popular among the natives of rural and forest regions of Chhattisgarh. I observed that the herb vendors are aware of its miraculous healing effects but they are not aware of its ingredients. Most of them are not interested in getting the information on this aspect. From these herb vendors I got preliminary information about the traditional healers preparing this oil. I decided to meet and interact with these traditional healers.

The use of this specific oil is very simple. The patients are instructed to put few drops of oil in to the nose in order to get relief from the common cough and cold. The traditional healers also suggest its use in case of chronic and complicated troubles. This oil is also used as preventive. The traditional healers informed that the presence of this oil inside the nose restrict the entries of pathogen. This is the reason common natives are suggested to use this oil regularly specially in season when the incidences of such troubles are common. I have tested its efficacy many times.

The traditional healers have acquired this knowledge from their ancestors and without modification preparing it for their own use, Many healers prepare it for the sell and through herb vendors they market it. As commercial product this oil is still not available. The traditional healers informed that they prepare this special oil using over 112 herbs. Most of these herbs are found in surroundings. For many herbs they have to travel in dense forest or to depend on the herb vendors coming from other states. The traditional healers of Keshkal region informed that as main ingredients they use Haldi powder, Chameli leaves and Dhikuar pulp. Haldi of wild origin is preferred. Locally it is known as Ban Haldi. The traditional healers further informed that as base oil they use Til (Sesame) oil. Black seeded Til is preferred. All the ingredients are mixed and boiled in base oil. When all watery contents evaporate the boiling is stopped and after filtration the oil is kept for future use. Many healers prefer another method. In this method the base oil with other ingredients is kept in sunlight for specific time and after this duration filtered oil is used as special oil. Although the oil can be kept up to long time but most of the healers prepare it fresh.

The traditional healers informed that Dhikuar play very important role in this oil. Dhikuar is local name of Aloe. I have observed that the traditional healers use the wild types of Aloe for the preparation of oil. The healers informed that the Aloe present in Keshkal Ghati region is small in size but having rich medicinal properties. Another ingredient Chameli grows as ornamental plant. The healers grow it in their home garden for it uses round the year.

The traditional healers of Bastar region informed that they use Kali Musli (Curculigo orchioides) leaves in this oil in order to make it more effective. They hide the information about other ingredients like Haldi and Aloe. They also add Tulsi Manjri in this oil.

In short time I failed to get the information on all ingredients. I am in process of getting more information. When I prepared this special oil using these known ingredients I failed to get the desired effects. This observation motivated me to get the complete information.

Few months back I used this oil on the patient having acute sinusitis. I applied the oil in to the nose and also as experiment massaged it externally. It acted in promising way. When I informed the healers about it a senior healer informed me that in serious conditions this oil can applied in sole and palm for the desirable effects.

In the long list of medicinal oils I have added this special oil also after the recent surveys. Keep reading the research articles for more information on this aspect.

2. Sickling Bar Kadha.

In Chhattisgarh over 17 percent population is having Sickle Cell Anemia. This trouble is locally known as Sickling. The traditional healers of the state show surprise on this figure. According to them it is manipulated data. But they accept that this trouble is in increasing trend and the patients are increasing. They blame modern life style far from natural way of life for this increase in number. According to them the natural forests of the state are rich in medicinal herbs and insects and through judicious use of these natural gifts the state can get rid from this disease. Unfortunately the modern planners are ignoring the importance of traditional medicine and they are giving more emphasis in collecting the data on the number of patients.

I have mentioned in previous articles that how the traditional healers are using herbal combinations to treat the patients. They are not taking any charge from the patients and trying their best for the treatment. Seeing the encouraging results I decided to get information on this aspect in recent surveys. Although little but I got information on many herbal combinations used by the healers as supplement as well as main treatment. It is good sign that seeing the seriousness of this trouble most of the healers are disclosing the formulations without any hesitation . As many multinational companies are active in the state I am mush worried about the safety of this knowledge. This is the reason I decided to write it in form of research article.

The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh Plains use special decoction (Kadha) for the treatment. In this decoction they use the bark of trees available commonly in surroundings. The barks of Koha (Terminalia arjuna), Bambri (Acacia nilotica), Aonla (Emblica officinalis), Pipal (Ficus religiosa), Bar (Ficus benghalensis), Gasti (Ficus virens), Khair (Acacia catechu) and Parsa (Butea monosperma) are collected and allowed to dry it in shade. Before collecting the bark the traditional healers irrigate the trees with special herbal extracts and leachate in order to enrich it with medicinal properties. I have written a lot about this Traditional Allelopathic Knowledge in my previous articles. In case of Koha, Pipal and Bar inner bark is collected whereas in case of other trees outer bark is collected. The dried bark is converted into powder and mixed in equal proportion. The combination is boiled in water to prepare concentrate decoction. Based on the condition of the patients the traditional healers prepare the decoction of different proportions. They fix the doses after examine the patients. Many healers informed that when the relatives of the patients tried to prepare it at home without bothering the precautions they get odd results. This is the reason the traditional healers recommend its use under their strict supervision. Most of the healers don't permit its use with modern medicines but I have observed that few of them permits it although half heartily.

During the surveys I got opportunity to meet and interact with the patients getting benefit from this decoction. In general the traditional healers give it twice in a week preferable on Wednesday and Sunday. Every time freshly prepared decoction is given. Stored decoction is not used in any case. The patients are advised to take it sip by sip like tea. The patients feel good after taking it. The healers restrict the use of salt during the use of this decoction. Nothing is added in it to make it tasty. The traditional healers are in favor of its long-term use. Many of them claimed that in many cases the patients get rid from the trouble only through this decoction. It is especially effective in case of child patients. It is very hard to maintain the record of the patients at traditional healers level but I am trying to keep it with me.

Through on-going surveys I am trying to get comments on this decoction by the traditional healers of other regions of Chhattisgarh. I am hoping that I will get some new information and also about new ingredients to make the decoction more useful. Through this research article I would like to request the modern researchers to come forward to conduct systematic clinical trials in order to evaluate the efficacy of this decoction. The traditional healers are ready to work with them. It is good sign.

3. Khoon Saaf Kare Ke Dawa.

The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh believe that impurity in blood is root cause of many health troubles. This is the reason they give special emphasis on blood purification. In general blood purifier herbs are given with almost every treatment as supplement. They also use certain herbs and herbal combinations as main treatment. From the traditional healers of Northern Chhattisgarh I got information on unique formulation used to purify the blood. The traditional healers use this herbal combination in form of decoction and mixture.

As main ingredients the traditional healers use the leaves of medicinal tree Kaitha (Feronia limonia) and Khirni (Manilkara hexandra). They also add the leaves of Bhuineem (Andrographis paniculata) and Neem. The natural forests are rich in wild population of Kaitha. Old trees are preferred for the collection of leaves. The traditional healers collect it during nighttime especially during dark night. Although they are not aware of the science of this special harvest time but as traditional practice they are following it sincerely. Khirni is also commonly available. Many healers depend on the herb vendors for the leaves. They buy it after testing its purity through traditional methods. Neem leaves are collected and stored in dry place. The healers use both fresh and dry leaves. The collection of Neem leaves during winter is avoided. Bhuineem grows as rainy season plant. The healers collect the leaves before flowering and store it for its use round the year. All trees are irrigated with specific herbal extracts and leachate before the collection of leaves. This treatment enriches the leaves with medicinal properties. I have written a lot about this Traditional Allelopathic Knowledge in my previous research articles.

All ingredients are mixed in different proportions and by boiling it is water decoction is prepared. Different healers mix the herbs in different proportions. They give different doses of decoction to the patients of different age group. Most of the healers hesitate to inform about the exact proportion but they informed that all the herbs are never mixed in equal proportion. The patients are given this decoction once in a week. In general it is given during morning time. Every time fresh decoction is given and patients are advised to take it sip by sip as tea. For the patients coming from far places the traditional healers prepare herbal combination from dry leaves. The healers consider it less effective. They prefer its use under their strict supervision. This combination is not available as commercial product in local market. I have seen this combination with many herb vendors. Thy supply it to the traditional healers of other states.

When I informed the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh Plains about this combination they replied that if you delete the Khirni leaves from this combination you will find a promising combination for Dysmenorrhoea. , common trouble among women. It was really surprising information for me. The traditional healers of Dhamtari region informed that the formulation used by the traditional healers of Northern Chhattisgarh are incomplete. He added more herbs in the list and suggested the use of this new decoction. He is not in favor of using concentrate as well as hot decoction. According to him the hot decoction can cause harm to the stomach. Now I am in process of informing the traditional healers of Northern Chhattisgarh about these comments.

Although many researchers may avoid such situation of difference in opinion but I feel that this work is fascinating and it enriches the knowledge. These traditional healers are not at one forum and they are interacting through me. I always try to communicate the opinions in its original form in order to avoid confusion but my dream is to arrange face to face meetings of these traditional healers.

4. Baal Ke Raksha Bar Dawa.

From the readers around the world I frequently receive letters and messages having queries related to hair loss and premature graying. They write that they have tried every option and failed to get the desirable results. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh have explanation for this failure. According to them the modern life style and long term use of chemical based hair care products are the root cause of this trouble. While taking any treatment it is very necessary that one must change its life style and food habits. With these cares the herbs or herbal combinations act in more promising ways. In my previous research articles I have written a lot about medicinal herbs used for hair care by the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh. I have noted during my surveys that it is always better to take treatment under the supervision of the traditional healers rather than simply taking the combination and using it in place far from the guidance of real Guru. Although I am loosing my hairs after writing over 10,000 research articles but it is mercy of the healers that much hairs are still on my head. Through recent surveys I got information on new herbal oil used traditionally in Chhattisgarh Plains for hair growth promotion.

As base oil the traditional healers use Til (Sesame) oil. Til is under cultivation as oilseed crop in Chhattisgarh. The traditional healers prefer the use of black seeded Til for the preparation of hair oil. As substitute they also use white seeded type but it is less preferred. As main ingredients Gunja (Abrus precatorius) roots are used. The roots are collected before flowering. The traditional healers visit to nearby forest in search of medicinally rich roots. In general the roots growing in west direction are not preferred. The healers irrigate the plants with certain herbal extracts and leachate before collecting the roots. The purpose of this treatment is to activate the medicinal contents of roots. I have written much on this Traditional Allelopathic Knowledge in my previous articles. As main ingredient the healers also use the leaves of Bhengra (Eclipta alba). I have mentioned about the rare blue flowered type of this herb. The traditional healers prefer this type but as substitute they use common Bhengra found in Rice fields. The collection on Bhengra from Rice fields where chemical farming is in progress is avoided.

As third ingredient the traditional healers use the inner bark and fruits of well-known medicinal tree Aonla. All herbs and herb parts are collected and added in base oil. The combination is boiled till the evaporation of all the watery contents. After this process the boiling is stopped and filtered oil is kept for future use. Many senior healers use the traditional method of oil preparation. They keep the combination under sunlight up to many days.

The traditional healers of different regions add more herbs in this oil in order to make it more useful The traditional healers of Bagbahera region informed that they add the leaves of Seetaphal (Annona squamosa) in it. The healers of Raipur region informed that they add the roots of Mulethi in this oil.

The method of its use is unique. The patients are advised to mix oil with equal proportion of Honey. The combination is then applied in form of massage. The emphasis is given on its application near root zone of hair. The patients are instructed to remain the oil as such till next application. Washing through water or other chemicals are not allowed. I am aware that for modern youths it is hard to tolerate it for long time but for good effect it is must. I have observed that its regular use up to a week starts showing desirable effect.

The traditional healers informed that the application of this oil is having many other health benefits. It brings sound sleep. It is also considered good for eyes. This oil is not available in market as commercial product. The traditional healers prepare it by themselves and give it in minimum quantity to the patients. I prefer to take it from the healers and also try to get massage from their hands full of healing properties.

I have searched the reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India for this formulation but failed to get the information on this aspect. The healers informed that they have learnt this knowledge from their ancestors and using it without any modification. Recently I have given this oil to my friends practicing modern medicine. They are surprised with initial results. I am hoping that good result will motivate them to conduct systematic clinical trials focused on this special oil. Let us hope for good news.

5. Pelea Ke Dawa.

Pelea or Jaundice is common trouble in Chhattisgarh. The natives and traditional healers have rich traditional medicinal knowledge about herbs and insects useful in treatment of this trouble. I have mentioned in previous articles that the traditional healers use specific Herbal Mala as supplement treatment. Many healers believe in herbal bath as supplement treatment along with main treatment. In general as main remedy the traditional healers use whole herb of Bhuiaonla (Phyllanthus species). They are using it since time immemorial. Now the whole world acknowledges its capacity in treatment of liver related troubles. The traditional healers use it in very simple way. They collect the whole plant and in form of globule give it to the patients daily morning up to three days with cow milk. In most of the cases it acts in promising ways. This herb is also used in combination with other herbs. Through recent surveys I got interesting information on use of medicinal tree Harra (Terminalia chebula) in treatment of Jaundice. Most important observation was that the traditional healers of different regions use Harra in different ways for the same trouble.

The natural forests are rich in wild population of Harra. Harra holds a reputed position as medicinal plant in different systems of medicine in India. The reference literatures are full of information regarding this herb. I have mentioned different types of Harra and its identification in my previous articles.

The traditional healers of Narharpur region suggest the patients to take the Harra leachate as preventive to liver related troubles specially Jaundice. The fruit is dipped in water whole night and next day the patients are advised to take the leachate empty stomach. The healers are in favor of its long-term use. I have mentioned the use of Harra in this way in order to get long life, free from health troubles. The use of Harra leachate is also considered as preventive to Cataract and troubles of prostrate gland. The traditional healers of Charama region use the fruit powder of Harra in combination with cow urine in treatment of Jaundice. They claim that it is very effective formulation and in most of the cases the patients get rid from the troubles with the help of this simple formulation.

The urine collected from black cow is preferred. The urine of pregnant cow is not considered suitable. The traditional healers purify the urine through traditional methods before using it. This treatment is given under the strict supervision of the healers. The healers informed that the benefits could be seen even after two -three doses. When I informed the traditional healers of Bagbahera region about this formulation they replied that they use Phyllanthus at initial stage and if they fail to get the desirable effects then they use the combination of Phyllanthus with Harra fruit powder and cow urine. They also add more herbs in it. The healers of this region are well known for their expertise in treatment of liver related troubles.

While searching the reference Ayurveda literatures I found the information on Harra and Cow urine based formulation .It is a matter of proud that the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are still using the traditional methods without much modification. They have acquired this knowledge from their ancestors. Their formulations are not available in form of commercial product in market. The healers prepare it under their supervision and take full care in selection of potential herbs.

I am planning to visit the North Chhattisgarh in coming months. I will present this formulation to the traditional healers of this region and try to get their expert comments. Keep reading the articles for more information on this aspect

6. Bariyara Ke Upyog.

Few days back I was in field with the traditional healers of Dhamtari region. We were in search of medicinal weeds and insects in wasteland. The healers were collecting the herbs and insects and also we were sharing information about it. By seeing the Bariyara (Sida species) the healers informed that it is valuable herb for the patients having liver related troubles. It is specially used in treatment of Jaundice. Through long interaction I got much information on new use of this wasteland weed. In previous research articles I have written a lot about different traditional medicinal uses of this herb. For the first time I got information about its use along with rat excreta in treatment of immature boil from the healers of Ambikapur region. It is one of my favorite herbs. The natives of Chhattisgarh prepare Broom from this weed. In general it is used as tonic and popularly added in herbal combinations as main ingredients. This herb is having strong Allelopathic effects also. This is the reason it dominates in wasteland. In organic cultivation of medicinal crops the farmers use this herb as crop growth promoter.

The traditional healers of Dhamtari region use the roots of Bariyara in treatment of Jaundice. The roots are collected before flowering. When it is collected after the flowering the traditional healers use flowers with the root. The root growing in north direction is preferred. Bariyara plants growing in Lateritic wasteland are preferred. Diseased plants are avoided. The roots are collected and boiled in water to prepare the decoction. Based on the conditions of the patients the traditional healers prepare the decoction of different concentration. The patients are advised to take the decoction internally. In general it is given during morning hours. The patients informed that for taste the traditional healers add Gud (Jaggery) in it. But the traditional healers explained the reason for addition of the Gud. They informed that without Gud this decoction is incomplete. The hot decoction is given to the patients with the instruction to take it sip by sip as herbal tea. The traditional healers are not in favor of its long-term use. They try it up to one week and in case of poor response change the herbs. The traditional healers of Raipur region informed that in case of failure they add more herbs in it in order to make it promising. They add Haldi (Turmeric) powder in it. They informed that the yellow color of Haldi indicates its capacity to treat Jaundice and related troubles.

The traditional healers of Bastar region are also aware of this decoction. They use it in their practice but as other promising alternatives are available they use it less commonly. The senior healers informed that they add wild Haldi in place of common Haldi in this decoction in order to get the promising effects whereas the healers of Bagbahera informed that instead of whole root the use of root bark gives more promising results. In general during rainy season viral attack on leaves can be observed. According to he traditional healers of Bagbahera region the root collected just at initial stage of viral attack possess rich medicinal properties. It is really surprising to know the depth of knowledge the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are having.

From the traditional healers of Durg region I got new information on the collection of potential Bariyara plant. They informed that Bariyara growing in combination with Cassia tora herbs are having rich medicinal properties. These healers also irrigate the Bariyara plants with specific herbal extracts and leachate in order to enrich it with medicinal properties. I have written a lot on this Traditional Allelopathic Knowledge in my previous articles.

I am in process of searching Bariyara based herbal formulations in reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India. If I get new information I will forward it to the traditional healers for experimentation. Keep reading my articles for new development in this regard.

7. Guruch Ke Upyog.

Although many female traditional healers are giving their service in Chhattisgarh but in most of the cases the male traditional healers treat the gynecological troubles. Due to hesitation many times the patients prefer the use of home remedies for treatment and only in case of complication visit to the male traditional healers. The male traditional healers have rich traditional medicinal knowledge about herbs and herbal combinations useful in treatment of gynecological troubles. I have written a lot on this aspect in previous articles. During recent surveys I got information on use of special oil in treatment of vaginal pain and related troubles. The traditional healers of different regions prepare it by adopting different methods. As main ingredient Tinospora sinensis stem is used but the healers of different regions add different types of herbs in it. Every healer has his specific information regarding the addition of new herb.

The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh Plains use Bhatkatiya roots along with Tinospora. They prefer the use of rare white flowered Bhatkatiya for promising results. In case of non-availability they use the common Bhatkatiya collected from wasteland. The roots are collected before flowering. The herb growing in Lateritic soil is not preferred. The herb growing near to the Datura plants is considered more promising. The roots are collected using wooden instrument and used freshly for the preparation of oil.

The traditional healers of Bagbahera use the roots of medicinal weed Tridax procumbens along with Tinospora stem and Bhatkatiya roots. The roots of Tridax are collected during flower initiation stage. Diseased plants are not preferred for the collection. The traditional healers of Gandai-Salewara region use Charota (Cassia tora) roots in place of Tridax roots. New plants are preferred for the collection of roots. Charota growing in all types of soil is considered suitable for the collection of roots.

The traditional healers of Sirpur region use both Tridax and Cassia roots. They also add Hulhul (Cleome viscosa) roots in it. The traditional healers of Narharpur region informed about the addition of Bariyara (Sida) roots.

All healers use Til (Sesame) oil as base oil. Black seeded Til is preferred. Like other traditional oil this special oil is prepared. The herbs are mixed in different proportion and added in base oil. The combination is boiled and when all watery contents evaporate the boiling is stopped and after filtration the special oil is kept for future use. The patients are advised to dip the cotton bud in this oil and keep it inside the vagina. According to the healers it acts in promising ways and helpful in treatment of many related troubles. During the recent surveys I got opportunity to meet and interact with the patients getting benefit from this oil. They were much impressed with the performance and giving full credit to the traditional healers for its miraculous effects.

The traditional healers prepare this oil for their own use. This oil is not available in market as commercial product. I have yet not found it with the herb vendors. By meeting with the traditional healers of different regions I have collected the oil samples of over twelve types. I am trying to give it to the traditional healers of other regions for their comments. I see it as golden opportunity for the new researchers eager to work on traditional medicine. There is a need for systematic study to evaluate the efficacy of different oils having same main ingredients but different other ingredients.

I am searching the reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India in order to get information on this special oil. The support of Ayurveda experts will help me a lot in this regard.

8. Jadi Buti Ke Durlabh Upyog.

Every year due to heavy monsoon rains heavy flooding occurs in different parts of Chhattisgarh. Every year it takes lives of many natives as well as cattle. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh living in river belt are aware of many herbs and herbal combinations having capacity to treat the natives affected due to flood. According to the traditional healers every year they collect tens of natives at nearly dead condition from the floodwater and through the traditional knowledge try to give them new life. I am aware of these heroes since last decade but never got much time to meet and interact with them and to document their important traditional medicinal knowledge. Through recent surveys I got opportunity to meet with the traditional healers of Mahanadi river belt especially around the Mahasamund region.

The senior traditional healers informed that they use many herbal combinations mostly in form of solution in treatment of such patients. The medicine is given after first aid measures. The patients are advised to take the herbal solution in every hour at initial stages and at larger interval at later stages. The treatment is continued till complete cure. In most of the formulation they use over 120 types of herbs. Most herbs grow as common weeds around them. They prepare the formulation in rainy season when the herbs are available in plenty. For the year round use the mixture is kept in safe conditions.

The traditional healers of Mahasamund region informed that as main ingredients they use the leaf juice of Bakain (Melia azedarach) and Tulsi leaf juice. The dry leaves are also used. Among weed species they use Punarnava (Boerhaavia diffusa), Chirchita (Achyranthes aspera) and Kukronda (Blumea lacera) root powder. All weed species are used popularly in traditional medicine. All ingredients are mixed in equal proportion and its aqueous extract is used in treatment. It is given to the patients with instruction to take it sip by sip. Many times this solution is applied in to the patient's nose drop by drop especially in critical conditions. Many traditional healers informed that it could be massaged in sole and palms in such conditions.

When I informed the traditional healers of Rajim region about this formulation they replied that it is having very promising effects. They informed that besides these herbs they use the seeds of Indrayan and fruit powder of Sirsa in this formulation. But they refused to tell about the details of other ingredients. I am aware that it is hard to get the complete formulation. I will try my best to get the information after convincing the traditional healers about the importance of on-going documentation work. If I failed the researchers of coming generation will do this job.

The senior healers of Rajim region informed that this formulation could be used at any emergency condition especially after shock both mentally and physically. They use it in treatment of patients injured due to lightening in rainy season. Like other herbs they irrigate these herbs with specific herbal extracts and leachate in order to activate the medicinal content. I have written a lot about this Traditional Allelopathic Knowledge in my previous articles.

I feel that these types of formulations can be very useful in disaster prone areas. Last year we lost many lives due to Tsunami. This year Hurricane Katrina caused much devastation. The popularization of such formulations after systematic clinical trials can protect hundreds of lives every year. I am hoping that the planners around the world will consider this important point while making future plans for such disasters.

9. Pelea Bar Ninda Ke Upyog.

In Chhattisgarh many species of Ipomoea grows naturally. Most of these species grows as weed. The natives and traditional healers of Chhattisgarh use all species as medicine in treatment of common as well as complicated diseases. All species are used separately and rarely the healers use it in combination. Through recent surveys I got information on unique formulation in which four species of Ipomoea are used. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh Plains use it in treatment of Jaundice especially at advanced stages when all available remedies fail to give the desirable results. The information of this formulation is limited to very few people. The traditional healers are using it without any modification. They have deep faith in it and to get maximum effects they are giving more emphasis in traditional collection methods.

The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh Plains informed that they use the leaves of Ipomoea aquatica and Ipomoea reniformis, root bark of Ipomoea turpethum and seeds of Ipomoea nil. Ipomoea aquatica is locally known as Karmatta Bhaji. It is popular as vegetable among the natives. The traditional healers are aware of its medicinal properties. Ipomoea reniformis is known as Muscaini. It grows as rainy season weed in wasteland and crop fields. The natives consume is as potherb with much taste. I have mentioned in previous articles that the traditional healers use it in treatment renal troubles. Its leaves look like kidney. This is the reason it is used in treatment of kidney related troubles. Ipomoea turpethum and Ipomoea nil are forest herbs. The natural forests are rich in its wild population. These herbs are in list of non-wood forest produces of Chhattisgarh having fair demand at national market. Both herbs hold reputed position as medicinal herb in different systems of medicine in India. The traditional healers also use these herbs in their routine practice.

The traditional healers prefer the collection of herbs growing in wasteland without any care and far from the human interference. All herbs are treated with different herbal extracts and leachate before collection. The purpose of these treatments is to activate the medicinal contents of these herbs. I have written a lot about this Traditional Allelopathic Knowledge in my previous articles. The traditional healers prefer the collection of Ipomoea reniformis and Ipomoea nil during nighttime especially during dark night. Although the healers are not aware of its science but as traditional practice they are following it sincerely. I am trying my best to get the information.

All ingredients are mixed in equal proportion and combination is prepared. This combination is given internally to the patients. Based on the conditions of the patients the traditional healers decide the doses. They give this combination under their strict supervision. They are not in favor of its long term use. In general it is given up to one week. If they get good results they continue it and in case of poor response they change the medicine.

When I informed the traditional healers of Bastar region about this formulation they showed ignorance towards it. They assured me to try it in future and give their comments on it. The senior healers of Kondagaon region informed that this combination could be given with Triphala combination in order to get promising effects. Triphala is a combination prepared by mixing the fruits of Terminalia chebula, Terminalia bellirica and Emblica officinalis in equal proportion. After coming back I informed the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh Plains about the addition of Triphala. They replied that they are satisfied with the results and not interested in experimentation. I am aware that from documentation point of view it is an important information.

In coming visits I will try to spread the information about this formulation to the traditional healers of other region to get more feedback. Keep reading my articles for further information.

10. Sanp Kate Ke Upchar.

Although the natives and traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are having rich traditional knowledge about herbs useful in treatment of snake bite but the authorities are not giving importance to this traditional knowledge and they are recommending the use of modern treatment in snake affected areas. As result the deaths due to snakebite are in increasing trend. Through the ongoing ethnobotanical surveys I am trying my best to document the available traditional knowledge on this aspect. Also with the help of photographs trying to convince the planners about the importance of traditional snake medicine.

From the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh Plains I got new information on herbal formulation used both as first aid measure and as systematic measure. The traditional healers prepare the fresh herbal combination and try to provide relief to the patients. In most of the cases the patients are Rice farmers. By examine the affected part they decide on the type of snake. For poisonous snake they use this specific herbal combination. In this combination commonly available herbs and herb parts are used.

The traditional healers of Durg region informed me that the flowers of Sirsa (Albizia lebbeck), Charota (Cassia tora), Bakain, and Bhengra (Eclipta alba) are collected and juice is extracted. Sirsa and Bakain are medicinal trees. Charota and Bhengra are common weeds and grow in rainy season. In flower juice Munga (Moringa oleifera) seed powder is added. As first aid measure the healers suggest the patients to apply the combination in to the eyes. If the condition of patient is serious then they apply the combination in to the nose drop by drop. According to the traditional healers this combination gives much relief to the patients and in many cases they get rid from this trouble.

As systematic treatment the patients are advised to take the combination internally up to long time. The healers give it as supplement treatment along with main treatment. The senior healers consider it more useful as first aid measure. They add more herbs in it in order to make it more promising. The flowers of other weeds like Argemone and Ageratum are used. The healers of different regions use different herbs but the above mentioned herbs are used by all the healers.

The traditional healer of Mahasamund region informed that this combination is useful in treatment of scorpion bite also. But the healers of other regions have yet not confirmed it. I have also not seen its practical use.

Before collection of flowers and Munga seeds the traditional healers irrigate the herbs with specific herbal extracts and leachate in order to make it medicinally rich. I have written a lot about this Traditional Allelopathic Knowledge in my previous research articles.

I am searching the reference literatures regarding this formulation. Keep reading my research articles to get more information on this aspect.

12. Bavasir Ke Upchar.

Although the problem of Piles is not much common among the natives of rural and forest regions of Chhattisgarh but among the urban population this problem is increasing with alarming rate. The traditional healers blame the modern lifestyle for this trouble. I have mentioned in previous research articles that the natives and traditional healers of Chhattisgarh have rich traditional medicinal knowledge about herbs and insects useful in treatment of Piles. There are hundreds of home remedies used by the natives. In case of complications they visit to the healers for systematic treatment. Besides the use of herbs and herbal combinations the traditional healers give much emphasis on regular life style. During recent surveys I got information on new herbal formulation used by the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh Plains in treatment of Piles. It is used as very advanced stages when all other remedies fail to give the desirable effects. Many healers use it at early stage also.

Kaitha is well known tree of medicinal importance in Chhattisgarh. Its fruits are much liked by wild elephants. The natives also consume it with much taste. The healers use Kaitha plant parts including its fruits as medicine in treatment of common as well as complicated troubles. In this valuable medicine of Piles the healers use its pulp in combination with Bael fruit pulp. Matured fruits are collected. Old trees are preferred. Before collecting the fruits the healers irrigate the trees with herbal extracts and leachate. According to them this treatment enriches the fruits with medicinal properties. It also activates the medicinal contents of fruits. They use the fruits as early as possible. I have written a lot about this Traditional Allelopathic Knowledge in my previous articles.

The patients are advised to take the combination of both fruit pulps daily morning up to long time. Both pulps are mixed in equal proportion. After long interaction with the senior traditional healers of Durg region I got a key information. The healers informed that after taking this combination one must take Liquor prepared from Mahua in order to get maximum benefits. Mahua is well known tree in Chhattisgarh forests and its Liquor is consumed by the natives. I have mentioned in previous articles that the healers use this liquor as medicine in treatment of Hemophilia. It is also used in treatment of common troubles like earache. The use of Mahua with Bael and Kaitha fruit in treatment of Piles was new information for me. I am searching the reference literatures to get more information on this aspect.

During the surveys I got opportunities to meet and interact the patients getting benefit from this combination. The results were surprising. The healers prefer its use under their supervision. They are not in favor of its use throughout life. As it is remedy it must be used till the cure. If any one get addicted to it then it must be changed and other drugs must be tried.

The traditional healers of Bagbahera region are also aware of this combination. They informed that more fruit pulps could be added in order to make it more effective. I am in process of getting this important information. Keep reading my articles to get more information on this aspect.

13. Khaj Ke Upchar.

The traditional healers of Indian State Chhattisgarh use many herbal combinations in treatment of skin related troubles. They use these combinations in different ways. During rainy season due to humidity many skin troubles develop and most of the natives get affected with it. The natives are having long list of home remedies for these troubles. They approach to the traditional healers at advanced stages. The natives living in urban areas at first try the modern medicines and when they experience its failure they approach to the traditional healers for systematic treatment. In Homoeopathy literatures it is mentioned that suppression of one trouble results in development of new trouble. This is the reason Homeopath always try to cure the trouble completely. In Classic Homoeopathy external medicines are not used. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are also having same philosophy. They suggest the patients to go for long treatment to root out the skin trouble completely. But in most of the cases the patients show hurry and interest in getting quick treatment. In such cases the traditional healers use certain herbal combinations externally. They give equal emphasis on the use of internal remedies. In the name of quick cure the patients get ready to get both internal as well as external treatment. During recent surveys I got information about new formulation that is used externally in treatment of skin troubles common during rainy season.

As main ingredients bark of medicinal tree Doomar and Parsa are taken. Both are very common trees having rich medicinal properties. The inner bark of Doomar and outer bark of Parsa are used. Old trees are preferred for the collection of barks. Doomar trees growing near water sources are preferred. Barks are collected and after shade drying converted into powder. Both barks are mixed in equal proportion. In normal cases the patients are advised to apply the aqueous paste of this combination externally on affected parts. After drying it is washed. Again fresh paste is applied. The process is continued till complete cure. The healers informed that in most of the cases it acts in promising ways.

With this basic formulation when I approached to different traditional healers in order to get their views I got many important informations. The traditional healers of Bagbahera region suggested that the use of cow urine in place of water to prepare paste could give better results. They are not in favor of using the urine of other animals. The traditional healers of Dhamtari region suggested the addition of whole herb juice or powder of medicinal weed Bhatkatiya, as per availability I have mentioned in previous articles on Kadu Pani that the natives of Chhattisgarh use Bhatkatiya whole herb in preparation of body wash.

The traditional healers of Narharpur region suggested the addition of Fudhar leaves in this combination. They prefer its use under their supervision as Fudhar latex is considered harmful and judicious use is required. They also suggested the addition of Charota seeds.

The traditional healers of Bagbahera region informed that the combination with Haldi and Bhatkatiya could be used in form of decoction as body wash. They suggested the addition of Chitrak root bark in order to get more promising effects.

In reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India many similar formulations have been mentioned but the in depth knowledge given by the healers from collection to preparations is not available in these literatures. Before ending this article I would like to mention that the traditional healers use Traditional Allelopathic Knowledge in order to enrich the herbs and trees with medicinal properties before its use in herbal formualtions.

14. Pet Ke Gadbadi Ke Dawa.

There are many herbal formulations used for stomach related troubles but have you ever heard of herbal formulation that can prevent the stomach related troubles? During recent Ethnobotanical surveys I got information on this aspect from the traditional healers of Indian State Chhattisgarh. The healers prepare aqueous extract from different herbs and mix it just before use. Common natives are requested to take it once in a day preferably during morning hours in order to get protection from stomach related troubles. This formulation is also used for treatment.

As main ingredients Til (Sesame), Bariyara whole herb, Koha bark, Sagon seeds, Kela fruit juice, Chirchita whole herb, Parsa bark and Semal root are used. Til is well known oil seed crop in Chhattisgarh. Til stalk is collected before flowering. The healers collect organically grown Til. Indigenous varieties are preferred.

Parsa, Sagon, Semal and Koha are well known medicinal trees in Chhattisgarh. You can get details regarding its botany and reported medicinal uses in my previous research articles. Old trees are preferred. Freshly collected plant parts are used.

Bariyara and Chirchita grow as medicinal weed. The healers prefer its collection from wastelands. Both herbs are collected before flowering. The traditional healers irrigate all these herbs and trees with special herbal extracts and leachate in order to enrich it with medicinal properties. I have written a lot about this Traditional Medicinal Knowledge in my previous research articles.

All herbs are dipped in water overnight separately and next morning the aqueous extracts are prepared. Just before use all extracts are mixed and given to the patients. The traditional healers informed that all ingredients have definite role in this formulation and it is considered incomplete if any of it is missing. They have no alternative herbs. Many senior Traditional Healers informed that this formulation is beneficial for heart troubles also. But as other promising alternatives are available they use it less commonly. As treatment of stomach related troubles this formulation is given as supplement treatment along with main treatment. At initial stages it is used as main treatment also. The healers are much impressed by its promising effects. Its popularity among them clearly indicates its efficacy.

The patients living with modern life style get much benefit from this formulation. The traditional healers are not in favor of self-medication. They prefer its use under their supervision. They informed me that over dose or wrong use may result in harmful consequences.

I have yet not found any information regarding this formulation in reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India. I feel that through systematic clinical trials this formulation can be evaluated through modern research methodology. The healers are ready to share their knowledge. Now it is turn of our modern researchers.

15. Aushadhi Dhan Ke Upyog.

Aushadhi Dhan means medicinal rice. Indian state Chhattisgarh is known as Rice bowl due to large-scale cultivation of Rice by the natives. Besides common varieties the natives are also aware of medicinal Rice varieties. In Early days the cultivation of medicinal rice was in large areas but now only few natives mostly traditional healers are cultivating it in order to prepare medicine from it. Through my research articles at Botancial.com I have documented the traditional medicinal knowledge about medicinal Rice in Chhattisgarh. Although I have written lot but the knowledge seems endless. Through every survey I get new information about its unique uses. During recent surveys the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh Plains informed me about the uses of medicinal Rice Maharaji in treatment of sexual weakness.

The traditional healers aware of its medicinal uses cultivate it organically in their own fields. They use herbal extracts and leachate throughout cropping period in order to enrich the plant with medicinal properties. At milking stage the milk of immature grains is collected. This milk is boiled in cow milk and patients having sexual weakness are advised to take the combination internally. In general Rice milk is added with cow milk in 1:10 ratio. Based on the condition of the patients the healers increase or decrease the Rice milk. The patients are advised to take this combination at night before going to bed. Its use is recommended up to long time. As the use of fresh Rice milk is preferred it is hard to get it up to long time. This is the reason many times patients are suggested to take the combination twice or thrice daily. It is given to male patients. According to the healers common natives can also use it but for normal sexual health dose must be low. They are much impressed by its effects. One season treatment cures the trouble completely in most of the cases. This combination is not available as commercial product in market. I have yet not seen this use with the traditional healers of other parts of Chhattisgarh.

If the patients can tolerate then the traditional healers add seed powder of Kevatch in this combination. In most of the cases they add Kevatch for one time use. The presence of Kevatch in this combination many times produces harmful effects especially on stomach. This is the reason it is used rarely. I am aware that from documentation point of view it is an important information.

During interaction the healers informed that other rice varieties could not be used as substitute. They complained that due to regular cultivation since generations the quality of Maharaji is decreasing. Very few healers are having pure seeds. Maharaji seeds are safe (?) at Rice germplasm center of Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur. The support of University will be of great value for the traditional healers.

I have yet not found this information in reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India. I am feeling proud to document this important traditional medicinal knowledge.

16. Doobi Ke Tel.

Doobi (Cynodon dactylon) is considered as one of the ten worst weeds of the world. Every year millions are invested to manage this so-called weed. For the natives and traditional healers of Indian State Chhattisgarh Doobi is valuable medicine. They use it both internally as well as externally in treatment of human as well as cattle diseases. Wild animals are also aware of its medicinal properties. Tiger consumes Doobi in order to get rid from constipation. Deer are also ware of its use in treatment of diseases. In fact the traditional healers claim that they have learnt much about its medicinal properties from the wild animals. In previous research articles I have written a lot about traditional medicinal knowledge about this herb. During recent surveys I got information on its oil prepared by the traditional healers to dress the open wound.

For the preparation of Doobi oil Til oil is used as base oil. One part of Til oil and four parts of Doobi juice are taken. Doobi growing in wasteland is preferred. The healers collect whole herb instead of its leaves. I have mentioned in previous research articles that Blue Doobi is rare in occurrence. The healers prefer its use for the preparation of oil but in case of non-availability they use common Doobi. As other ingredients many types of grasses and sedges are added in this combination. Motha (Cyperus rotundus) and Ghoda Ghas (Dinebra retroflexa) are among the sedges and grasses. In general nuts of Motha are used in traditional medicine but in this special oil the healers use its culm. Leaves of Dinebra are used. The healers also add the leaves of Tridax procumbens. All ingredients are mixed and the combination is boiled. When all watery contents evaporate the boiling is stopped and after filtration the oil is collected. This special oil is used externally. It is used as main treatment at initial stages and as supplement treatment along with main treatment of open wounds at advanced stages. The healers are much impressed by its miraculous healing properties.

The traditional healers having expertise in treatment of different types of cancer also use it in treatment. They add one more herb i.e. Chirchita in it in order to get more promising effects. This special oil is not available as commercial product in market. The traditional healers prepare it for their own use. I have seen this oil with many herb vendors. They sell it to the natives and traditional healers of other states.

Before collecting Doobi the healers irrigate it with specific herbal extracts and leachate in order to activate its medicinal contents. I have written a lot about this traditional medicinal knowledge in previous research articles. I have searched the reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India about this special oil. The special oil prepared from Doobi is mentioned in many literatures but the oil having all the above-mentioned references has not been mentioned. I am feeling proud to document this important traditional medicinal knowledge.

17. Jahar Ke Dava.

Few years' back when I was in dense forest for surveys, out of curiosity one of my workers consumed wild fruits. Very soon vomiting started and his condition became very serious. We visited to the traditional healer for treatment. At first the healer asked about the wild fruit. When we replied that we are not aware of fruit then seeing the bad condition of the patient he suggested us to bring the fresh leaves of Boir plant. Unfortunately there was no Boir tree. As alternative he suggested the leaves of Peng and Sirsa. As last option he suggested the leaves of Doomar. Fortunately we found it near water source. He simply extracted juice from it and given it to the patient. Several doses of juice were given in interval of few minutes. Very soon the patient got rid from the trouble. We thanked the healer. He suggested for future that if the cause of poison is unknown then try the leaf juice of these medicinal plants. During recent surveys when I discussed this treatment with other traditional healers I got new information. I am giving the details in present article.

The traditional healers of Bagbahera region are aware of use of Doomar leaves in treatment of poison. They have different criteria for the selection of potential tree. Old trees growing near water sources are preferred. Old leaves are not used. Always they try to use the fresh juice. In order to increase the efficacy of Doomar leaf juice they add Pipal leaf juice in it. Both juices are mixed in equal proportion. Many healers keep the proportion of Doomar leaf juice high. Pipal tree growing near Doomar tree is considered most suitable for the collection of leaves.

Many time's small children consume the tasty but poisonous seeds of Jatropha. In cases of such toxicity the traditional healers of Durg region use the leaf juice of Sirsa. According to the healers this juice nullifies the harmful effects of Jatropha seeds. The juice is given in larger quantities. Many healers at first give the herbs to induce vomiting and after flushing out the major part of toxins use Sirsa juice. The senior traditional healers of Durg region informed that the addition of Riya leaf juice in Sirsa leaf juice increases its effectiveness. Riya is also a leguminous tree like Sirsa. They are aware of use of Doomar and Pipal leaf juice but they use it very rarely.

When I informed the use of Doomar and Pipal leaf juice to the traditional healers of Rajnandgaon region they suggested that the combination of Boir and Doomar leaf juice more promising. They also use it for poisoning. The traditional healers of Southern Chhattisgarh suggested new combination of Peng and Amli leaf juice for the same trouble. These trees are very common in this region. I have seen its practical uses many times.

Through ongoing Ethnobotanical surveys I am trying my best to meet more traditional healers and ask about their suggestion on this formulation. I am also searching the reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India to get more information on this aspect. Keep reading my articles to get more information on this aspect.

18. Mirgi Ke Malish Bar Tel.

While reading ancient books on Ayurveda I found information about unique oil for patients having Epilepsy. This oil is prepared using Sarson (Mustard seed oil) Tel and cow urine as main ingredients. One part of Sarson Tel and four parts of cow urine are taken and the combination is allowed to boil. When all watery contents evaporate the boiling is stopped and special oil is stored for future use. The Traditional Healers give it to the patients having Epilepsy to massage it all over the body especially on soles and palms. This is well known oil and its effectiveness is well tested since generations. It is also available as commercial products. As it is very simple oil many times the patients are advised to prepare it at their homes. I have seen its effectiveness on the patients. It is used as supplement treatment along with main treatment of Epilepsy. While reading this formulation an idea came in to my mind to put this formulation among the present generation Traditional Healers and note down their comments. During this year's surveys I tried to do it.

The Traditional healers of Chhattisgarh Plains are aware of this formulation. They use it many times in a year. They are not specific to cow urine. They use urine of any domestic animal. The urine of pregnant cattle is avoided. They also informed that by adding Bach herb in it one can make it more promising. Leaves of Bach are used for this purpose. Leaves are cut into small pieces and added in combination before boiling. The Healers enrich the leaves with medicinal properties through their Traditional Allelopathic Knowledge. I have written a lot on this aspect in my previous research articles. They showed me the special oil having Bach leaves. The special oil mentioned in Ayurveda is having very odd smell. The addition of aromatic Bach leaves gives it pleasant smell. The Traditional healers have deep faith in this oil.

When the Traditional healers of Kanker region prepare this oil with Bach leaves during winter season they never forget to add the leaves of common weed Blumea lacera. New leaves of plants at vegetative stage are preferred for the collection of leaves. This use is having limitations. The healers want to add the fresh leaves. It is not possible to get Blumea leaves throughout the year. They are not in favor of storing oil up to many months. The oil with Blumea leaves gives special aroma to the oil. It is very effective also.

The traditional healers of Ambikapur region add Nirgundi leaves in place of Bach and Blumea leaves. When I informed them about the addition of Bach and Blumea leaves they thanked me and promised to try it. What will happen if all herbs are added in this special oil? This was my question out of curiosity. The healers are in process of experimentation. I am hoping some good results.

It is not wrong to say that the Traditional Healers of present generation are improving the traditional formulations. It indicates the importance of documentation of Traditional knowledge. Keep reading my articles to get more information no this aspect.

19. Bukhar Bar Dhoop.

Many times modern medical practitioners raise objections when certain herbal combinations are used to burn in patient's room and fumes are spread in every corner. When the Traditional Healers claim that these fumes are able to cure the patients the modern practioners criticize them by saying it is not a genuine treatment. Working with hundreds of Traditional Healers I am aware of the miraculous effects of herbal fumes on the patients health. In early days there were many such formulations we are using at our homes especially during morning and evening times in order to keep it protected from the pathogens. In rural and forest regions the natives use it in the name of protection against evil spirits. The objectives are same. Through burning herbal fumes the natives get protection from flies in rainy days. Fumes are used to repel the venomous creatures. I have written a lot on this aspect in my previous research articles. Fumes are also used to repel the agricultural pest. During recent surveys I got information on the herbal combination used in this way by the Traditional Healers in treatment of fever especially intermittent fever.

By seeing fumes coming out from hut in forest I instructed my driver to stop the vehicle and investigate the matter. We found patient laying on bed and their relatives burning herbal combination. After interaction we got the name of Traditional Healers and tried to meet him for more details. He was out in search of herbs. In next visit we met him and asked about this combination. Among the Traditional Healers such combinations are known as Dhoop. Dhoop is mentioned in ancient literatures related to different systems of medicine in India. There are hundreds of herbal combinations for different purposes available as Dhoop. From the healer I got the information on ingredients of herbal combination.

Neem, Bhirra, Bach and Blumea leaves are used in dry form. The leaves are collected and after shade drying added in the combination. The healers gave emphasis on shade drying as sun drying may result in loss of aroma. As other ingredients they add Harra fruit powder and cow ghee. Old trees are preferred for the collection of fruits. Trees growing near Parsa trees are preferred. Ghee prepared from black cow's milk is preferred. In general Guggul is added in all Dhoop but the Traditional Healers of Chhattisgarh avoid its use and they try to add resin of native trees. In general the healers prepares it in bulk for round the year use. They don't disclose the content. Also they have little faith in herbal combinations available in market. The big fear is of adulteration.

The patients are advised to burn the herbal combination thrice a day. Many times they are suggested for deep breaths. It is used as supplement treatment but many times it is used as main treatment.

Later I found that the Traditional healers of other regions are also aware of this combination. They add one or more herbs in it in order to make it more promising. Many senior healers consider it effective for other troubles also. They suggest the natives to use it during transitional period in order to make their houses free from pathogens.

As mentioned earlier there are many types of Dhoop mentioned in reference literatures but I have yet not found any information on this formulation. It seems that the information about this formulation is coming first time in form of written document through my research article. Keep reading my research articles for new developments.

20. Doodh Se Baas Hataiy Ke Upaiy.

Although there are hundreds of home remedies available in Chhattisgarh for the problem of odd smell in milk of lactating woman but when these home remedies fail to give the desirable effects the natives approach to the Traditional healers for treatment. Through Ethnobotanical surveys in different parts of Chhattisgarh I have collected many interesting information on this aspect. I have documented it in form of research articles at Botanical.com. During recent surveys I got information about new formulation. Most of the formulations are used externally but this formulation is used internally. I am giving the details in present article.

The traditional healers of different regions use different ingredients in this formulation but as main ingredients they use Harra fruit powder, Sonth and Kali Mirch. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh Plains add Bach root powder in this combination. All ingredients are mixed and converted in to fine powder. With honey this powder is given internally to the patients. Honey is having specific role and according to the Traditional Healers it is not just a carrier. Based on the condition of the patients they decide the dose but in general one teaspoonful of combination is given once in a day. The treatment is continued till complete cure. The Healers informed that over dose of Bach might be harmful. This is the reason they add the Bach carefully.

The Traditional healers of Southern Chhattisgarh add Bach as well as Satavar root powder in this combination. They treat Satavar plants with special herbal extract and leachate and through this Traditional Allelopathic Knowledge try to enrich it with medicinal properties. The roots are collected on special day. Shade dried roots are converted into powder and added in the combination. The Traditional Healers informed that this combination is having many advantages. It increases the flow of milk also. Satavar is well known remedy for this purpose and in combination its effects increase.

The Traditional Healers of Ambikapur region use the seed powder of Chandrashoor. It is used with Satavar. They don't add Bach powder in the combination. They use it for humanbeings and cattle. Most of the healers cultivate Chandrashoor for their need but many of them buy it from the herb vendors. They have acquired this knowledge from their ancestors and without any modification using it since generations. When I informed them about the addition of Bach they assured me to try it and inform about the results.

All these combinations are not available as commercial products in market. The healers prepare it by themselves and in general they don't disclose its contents to any one. I have searched the reference literatures related of different systems of medicine in India and found many similar combinations. Through on-going surveys I am trying my best to get more information on this aspect. Keep reading my articles for further details.

21. Mirgi Ke Dawa.

Like other parts of India the patients having problem of Mirgi (Epilepsy) are common in Chhattisgarh. The natives and Traditional Healers have rich traditional medicinal knowledge about herbs and insects useful in treatment. These medicines are used as preventive and curative both. The Traditional Healers have long list of herbal oils used to massage the patient's body. I have written a lot on this aspect in my previous articles. During recent surveys I got information on new Herbal oil.

The Traditional Healers of Southern Chhattisgarh use this herbal oil. As main ingredients Sirsa, Neem, Galgal, Munga and Sonpatha barks are used. These are well known medicinal trees in Chhattisgarh. Young tree of Sirsa and Galgala are selected for the collection of bark. Many senior healers informed that in many places these trees grow in group. If such spots are marked then one can get best barks having rich medicinal properties. I have yet not seen such spots. The Traditional Healers take the inner bark on Neem, Sirsa and Galgala. Outer barks of other trees are taken. They are aware that collection of bark may lead to the death of the trees. They take enough precautions. Many Traditional Healers use special herbal extracts to provide relief to the injured trees after the collection of bark. They also use specific herbal extracts and leachate in order to enrich the bark with medicinal properties. These solutions are applied many days before the collection of barks. I have written a lot on this Traditional Allelopathic Knowledge.

Barks are dried in shade and converted into powder. All bark powder are mixed in equal proportion and added in base oil. As base oil Til (Sesame) oil is used. The combination is boiled and when all watery contents evaporate special oil is collected and after filtration kept for future use. In small amounts it is given to the patients to massage it gently on all over the body especially on head and soles during normal times. Many Traditional Healers massage this oil by their own hands. The patients prefer it. This massage is used as supplement treatment along with main (internal) treatment of Mirgi. In general the Traditional Healers don't disclose its content. This is the reason this oil is not available in open market as commercial product. During surveys I got opportunity to meet and interact with the patients getting relief from this oil.

The Traditional Healers also add more herbs in this oil in order to make it more promising. The Traditional Healers of Bastar region use Bach leaves whereas the healers of Bhopalpatnam region use whole herb of Jatamansi in this oil. I am eager to know the effect of oil having both Bach leaves and Jatamansi with other ingredients.

I have searched the reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India for this formulation but yet not got it. I am feeling proud to document this important traditional medicinal knowledge. I am hoping that by reading this article the modern researchers will come forward to conduct systematic clinical trials after taking the consent of the Traditional Healers in order to provide scientific base to this traditional knowledge.

22. Pelea Ke Dawa.

In Ayurveda herbal combination Triphala holds reputed position. Triphala is combination of Harra, Bahera and Aonla fruits. It is used both internally as well as externally in treatment of many common diseases. Triphala is available as commercial products in market. In general all fruits are mixed in equal proportion in Triphala but many times fruits are added in different proportions. The Traditional Healers of Indian State Chhattisgarh are aware of medicinal uses and properties of Triphala. I have observed during the surveys that many Traditional Healers

use Triphala as main ingredients in many herbal combinations. It means Tirphala is not considered as complete formulation. During recent surveys I got information on new formulation from the Traditional Healers of Chhattisgarh. I am giving the details in present article.

The Traditional healers of Chhattisgarh plains prepare specific decoction by boiling the herb parts in water. This decoction in considered as boon for the Jaundice patients. In general it is given at advanced stages when other remedies fail to give the desirable effects. But many healers use it at initial stages of Jaundice. The patients are advised to take the fresh decoction. In general the healers prepare the combination by their own hands and when patients visit to them they give this decoction. Based on the conditions of the patients the healers decide the doses. I was aware of this secret decoction since many years but after long interaction I got success in getting its complete formulation.

The Traditional Healers use Beeja wood powder and bark powder of Ain and Koha along with Triphala. All ingredients are mixed in equal proportion. For preparing Triphala they add all fruits in equal combination. Beeja, Ain and Koha are common medicinal trees. Old trees of Beeja are preferred for the collection of wood. Inner barks of Ain and Koha trees are taken. Many healers use specific herbal extracts and leachate to treat these trees few days before the collection of plant parts. Through this Traditional Allelopathic Knowledge they enrich the trees with medicinal properties. I have written a lot on this aspect in my previous articles.

This combination is not available as commercial product in market. When I informed the Traditional Healers of other regions they confirmed its miraculous effects in treatment of liver related troubles specially Jaundice. They declared it as complete formulation. The senior healers of Kanker region informed that this decoction is useful in treatment of Piles and Renal Calculi but as other promising alternatives are available it is used less commonly for these troubles.

I am searching the ancient Indian literatures to get information on this formulation. Keep reading my articles for more information on this aspect.

23. Purana Bukhar Ke Dawa.

In general the natives of Indian State Chhattisgarh use traditional knowledge about home remedies in treatment of fever. They prepare herbal teas and use roots of medicinal weeds in order to get rid from the fever. When the problem of fever get old at advanced stage they take the services of Traditional Healers. The healers have tens of traditional methods for the diagnosis and after simple tests they start systematic treatment. Under the category of 'Herbs and insects used in treatment of old fever' I have written a lot in my previous research articles. Through recent surveys I got new information. I am giving the details in present article.

The Traditional Healers of Chhattisgarh Plains use the combination of Parwal, Chirchita and Indrajau roots in treatment of old fever. The dry roots are converted into powder and mixed in equal proportion. The combination is given internally with honey. Many times the healers boil the combination in water and prepare special decoction. This decoction is given internally to the patients twice a day. Every time fresh decoction is used. Based on the conditions of the patients the traditional healers decide the doses.

Parwal is under cultivation as vegetable crop in Chhattisgarh. It is cultivated for fruits. Common natives are not aware of the use of its roots. The healers collect the roots before flowering. They are aware that the farmers use modern agrochemical during commercial farming of Parwal. This is the reason they grow it in their home garden organically for their requirement round the year. Also from farmers they don't get the roots.

Chirchita is well known medicinal weed. The healers collect it from wasteland. Chirchita growing in Lateritic wasteland is not preferred for the collection. The roots growing in south direction are avoided. Roots are collected before reproductive stage.

Indrajau is well known wild shrub. In general the healers collect the roots in bulk during rainy season and use it round the year. They use specific herbal extracts and leachate in order to enrich the roots with medicinal properties. I have written a lot on this Traditional Allelopathic Knowledge in my previous research articles.

Through long interactions and meeting with the healers I got very interesting information on this formulation. In general they try this combination up to one week but when they fail to get the desirable results they add Arusa leaves in it. After three days Harra fruit powder is added. Again after three days Kutaj bark is added. In most of the cases the patients get rid from trouble through addition of Arusa leaves. Most of the healers have never used the complete formulation in their lifetime. In reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India I have yet not found any information on this formulation. I am feeling proud to document this knowledge. I am still not having the information on selection criteria of Arusa, Kutaj and Harra plant parts. I am trying to collect the information on this aspect.

Keep reading my articles for latest development.

24. Peela Parsa Ke Dawa.

Parsa is well known for its red flowers. But I have mentioned in previous research articles about the natural occurrence of white and yellow flowered Parsa. Both white and yellow flowered Parsa are very rare in occurrence. The Traditional Healers are aware of its medicinal importance. They prepare many herbal combinations using rare Parsa plant parts. Yellow flowered Parsa is considered as more promising than white flowered. According to the traditional healers gold can be prepared by using the plant parts of yellow Parsa. They also associate the presence of yellow Parsa with occurrence of gems in particular region. Through recent surveys I got information on its new use. I am giving the details in present article.

Although AIDS is relatively new term for the Traditional Healers of Chhattisgarh but they are treating the patients having this trouble since decade. They are aware of disease in which human body looses its natural resistance. In series on Traditional medicinal knowledge about herbs useful in treatment of AIDS I have mentioned that besides the systematic main treatment of AIDS the healers use many supplement treatment in order to restore the natural resistance of human body. With the help of yellow Parsa roots the healers prepare special health tonic for AIDS patients.

They have many criteria for the selection of potential Parsa tree with yellow flowers but as they are having restriction due to less population of this tree they ignore such criteria and collect the roots at specific times. New roots are not preferred. The roots are dipped in water overnight and next day leachate is collected. In general roots are added in water in 1:10 ratio. The patients are advised to take the leachate internally daily morning empty stomach.

The Traditional Healers of Chhattisgarh Plains use this leachate more commonly. The healers of Southern Chhattisgarh add more herbal leachate in it in order to make the drink more useful. The healers of Kanker region informed that they add the root water of medicinal tree Doomar. The incision made on the roots results in exudation of liquid. This root water is added in the leachate of yellow Parsa root and given to the patients. They are aware of miraculous effect of this combination but accept that Parsa root plays more important role in it.

The healers of Northern Chhattisgarh are also aware of this combination but they add many herbs in it in order to make it more promising as well as tasty. They add Nimbu fruit juice, Chironji fruit leachate, Harra fruit leachate, Sonth and Dhania. Parsa root leachate and Doomar root water are used as main ingredients. Other herbs are added in very small quantity. The healers of this region are in favor of its use twice a day. At initial stages many times the healers use it as single remedy.

In reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India I have found many similar formulations but not the exact formulation. I am proud to document this important traditional medicinal knowledge. I am in process of getting information on different herbal extracts and leachate used by the healers to enrich these herbs with medicinal properties before collection. They inform very little about this Traditional Allelopathic Knowledge. I feel that through systematic research on this formulation we can provide much relief to the AIDS patients. I am hoping that by reading this article the modern researchers will come forward to conduct systematic clinical trials by taking support of the healers.

25. Laika Mun Ke Malish Bar Tel.

In Indian State Chhattisgarh the natives use many types of oil for childcare. They have rich traditional medicinal knowledge on this aspect. In Indian markets many types of oil are available as commercial products also. In rural and forest regions the natives still avoid these commercial oils and try to prepare the oil at home. Daily morning small children are massaged with the help of this oil. Mothers do it by sitting under sunlight. Most of the oils are considered effective in sunlight. I have written a lot on these traditional preparations. Through the recent surveys I got information on special oil prepared by the traditional healers for the weak children. They use it under their supervision. I am giving the details in present article.

As main ingredients Gunja root bark, Khamhar bark and Nirgundi root bark are used. All barks are collected fresh at specific time and mixed in equal proportion. The combination is boiled in base oil. Til oil is used as base oil. When all watery contents evaporate the boiling is stopped and after filtration the special oil is kept for future use. The senior healers prefer traditional methods. They keep the combination under sunlight up to many weeks. After specific duration combination is filtered and oil is collected. The traditional method gives more promising oil than modern method of boiling. When the weak patients visit to the healers they massage the oil with their own hands. They instruct their parents to learn the process of correct massage and after satisfaction small quantity of oil is given to them. The healers never give it in bulk. They are much worried of its commercial exploitation. In most of the cases the patients get enough benefit only through this oil. Many times it is used as supplement treatment along with main treatment. The healers of Chhattisgarh Plains use this oil more commonly.

Before collection of barks many healers irrigate it with specific herbal extracts and leachate in order to enrich it with medicinal properties and to activate its medicinal contents. I have written a lot about this Traditional Allelopathic Knowledge in my previous research articles.

When I informed the healers of Korba region about this oil many of them informed that in small quantity this oil can be given internally also. As other alternatives are available they use it less commonly. I am aware that from documentation point of view it is an important information. The healers take special precaution while use as wrong dose may result in harmful consequences.

When I searched the reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India for this oil I got information on similar formulations. In place of Gunja roots the use of Mulethi roots has been mentioned in many books. As Mulethi is not commonly used herb by the healers possibly the healers have developed the use of Gunja. I am in process of getting more details. Keep reading my articles for more information.

26. Pias Mitaiy Ke Upaiy.

In general the problem of intense thirst is not considered as big trouble by the natives of Chhattisgarh but for the traditional healers it is alarm of many diseases. Intense thirst during fever is treated with special emphasis. In reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India many herbal remedies have been mentioned for the treatment of this trouble. These literatures describe about many herbal shurbuts. According to the healers regular use of different shurbuts prepared from different seasonal fruits helps in maintenance of sound health. In modern life the natives are not using shurbuts and as result they are getting new troubles and the trouble of intense thirst is among these. I have written a lot on this aspect in my previous research articles. Through recent surveys I got information on new formulation. I am giving the details in present article.

According to the healers of Chhattisgarh Plains at initial stages they use the root water of Doomar tree, Mad of Neem tree and Leachate of Pipal tree separately. The patients are advised to take any one of these daily morning empty stomach. Based on the condition of the patients they decide the dose but in general few teaspoonful doses are considered enough for normal adult. It is very easy to get Doomar root water. Simple incision in roots results in oozing of root water. Occurrence of Mad in old Neem tree is rare incidence and this is the reason the healers use it less commonly. They prefer its use in other important troubles. During first rainfall the leachate of Pipal is collected. Although the healers take full precaution while its collection but many times it looses its properties. This is the reason it is also used less commonly. In general the use of Doomar root water gives desired effects.

At advanced stages the healers mix all these remedies in equal proportion and prepare a special combination. The healers of Bagbahera region informed me that this combination is having miraculous effects but as such it is poisonous in nature. To nullify its harmful effects they add root powder of medicinal grass Khas, Sonth and Motha root extract. The combination is given to the patients. In general the healers prepare this combination under their supervision and give it to patients approaching to them. They never allow the patients to carry it to their homes. They are much worried of its commercial exploitation. This combination is not available as commercial product in market. Very few healers are aware of this combination. During the surveys I got opportunity to meet and interact with the patients getting benefits from it. The results were encouraging.

In reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India many similar formulations have been mentioned. In most of the formulation the use of Sonth, Khas and Motha have been mentioned. These formulations do not give information regarding Neem Mad and other important ingredients used by the healers. It seems that the formulation in use in Chhattisgarh is still undocumented and coming among the world community through this article.

Keep reading my articles for more information.

27. Vidari Ke Tel.

Vidari or Patal Kumhda is well known forest herb of medicinal importance in Chhattisgarh. The natives and traditional healers have rich traditional medicinal knowledge about this herb. In general the healers use it as tonic and it is popularly added in herbal combinations used in treatment of sexual disorders. Although many species of Patal Kumhda are considered as obnoxious weed in many parts of the world including in Australia but the healers of Chhattisgarh use both species as medicine. Red colored Patal Kumhda is considered richer in medicinal properties. Through the recent surveys I got information on new use of this herb. The traditional healers of Gariaband region use this herb as main ingredient in preparation of herbal oil. I am giving the details in present article.

The healers collect the whole herb including roots and after shade drying chopped in to small pieces. All parts are mixed in equal proportion and added in base oil. As Base oil Til oil is used. The combination is kept under sunlight up to several weeks. After this duration they filter the combination and collect the special oil. This special oil is used to massage the hair. The patients are advised to apply it at the roots of hair in order to get more promising results. Patal Kumhda is collected before flowering. When it is collected after flowering then flowers are also added in the combination. According to the healers any species can be used to prepare this oil but they prefer the use of red Patal Kumhda. Most of the healers collect it from wild and use their Traditional Allelopathic knowledge in order to enrich the plant parts with medicinal properties. They give special emphasis on uttering of Mantras as well as special worship.

In order to make the oil more promising they add more ingredients. Through long interactions with them I have collected the information on this aspect. Most of the healers add the leaves of Seetaphal. When these leaves are added the patients are specially advised to protect the eyes from the oil. For the patients having the problem of lice the healers add the new leaves of Neem. The Traditional healers of young generation have started the addition of medicinal weed Bhengra in this oil. This addition helps the patients to keep the hairs in original color.

This oil is not available as commercial product in market. I have seen it with many herb vendors. They supply it to the healers of other states. They are not aware of its contents but they are much impressed by its miraculous healing effects. When I informed the healers of other regions about the ingredients they replied that many main ingredients are still missing as the healers of Gariaband add more herbs and its method of preparation is very tedious. This reply motivated me to get more information from the healers. I am visiting to the healers and convincing them about the importance of ongoing documentation work with hope that one day I will get the complete formulation.

Keep reading my articles for new developments.

28. Gulbakawali Jadi Ke Upyog.

Gulbakawali is well known herb among the natives. They plant it at home for its fragrant flowers. For the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh it is valuable medicine. Its all parts are used as medicine. Modern literatures describe about the use of its rhizome as febrifuge and tonic. But in rural and forest regions of Chhattisgarh the healers use its flowers very frequently. They prepare Ark from it and use it in treatment of eye diseases specially cataract. Not much has been written on the uses of flowers as medicine in modern literatures. In the state the rhizome is used less commonly. Through recent surveys I got new information on its use in combination with other herbs in treatment of respiratory troubles. I am giving the details in present article.

As main ingredient Gulbakawali rhizome is used. The healer's work starts fifteen days before the collection of rhizome. They treat the selected plants with special herbal extracts and leachate in order to enrich it with medicinal properties. Two days before collection they use special treatment method in order to activate the medicinal contents of the rhizome. In general they collect it before sunrise and dry it in shade. After drying it is converted in to fine powder. They try to use it as medicine as early as possible. They are aware that long term storage may result in loss of medicinal properties.

As other ingredients Pipalli powder, Bach root powder. Harra fruit powder and Arusa leaf powder are used. Many healers also add Sonth in it. All these ingredients are mixed in equal proportion and then in combination Gulbakawali powder is added in double amount. Most of the healers are in favor of its use with cow urine but when modern patients hesitate to take it with cow urine then they give it with honey. Based on the conditions of the patients they decide the dose. It is given once in a day to many times in a day. They use it under strict supervision. In most of the cases this combination is used as main treatment. Many times they use it as supplement treatment along with main treatment.

Although the healers allowed me to observe the use of Traditional Allelopathic Knowledge to enrich the herbs with medicinal properties but refused to inform about the extracts and leachate. I am trying to get details on this aspect. This combination is not available as commercial product in market. The healers prepare it in small doses as per their need. I have yet not found this formulation in reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India. I am feeling proud to document this important traditional medicinal knowledge.

Keep reading my articles to get more information on this aspect.

New Comments added on January 4, 2010

Through recent Ethnobotanical surveys I have collected new information and added it in CGBD database. New pictures as well as film strips have also been uploaded.

The efforts are on to make CGBD database online.

Original Research Document

http://ecoport.org/ep?SearchType=earticleView&earticleId=678&page=-2

How to Cite this Research Document

Oudhia, P. (2010). Traditional Medicinal Knowledge about medicinal herbs and insects in Indian State Chhattisgarh: Results of Ethnobotanical surveys conducted in year 2005. [Updated document, year 2010]

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© Pankaj Oudhia