Traditional medicinal knowledge about Garcinia oil in Chhattisgarh, India.
Traditional medicinal knowledge about Garcinia oil in Chhattisgarh, India.
Pankaj
Oudhia
Extended
Summary
© Pankaj Oudhia
According to reference literatures, Kokam (Garcinia indica) fruits are edible and its fat is known in commerce as "Kokam butter", obtained from seeds,. This butter is edible and also used in soap and candle manufacture and suitable for ointments and other pharmaceutical preparations. Through the ethnobotanical surveys conducted in different parts of Chhattisgarh I have gathered many valuable information on traditional medicinal uses of Garcinia. (Kokam) oil in treatment of common troubles. I am giving the details in present article. Garcinia oil is popular among the bone setters of Chhattisgarh. In complicated cases, to reduce intense pain during slight movement, the traditional healers suggest the patients to apply the oil externally on painful parts. It is considered as one of the promising treatments. The healers informed me that they add the oil of other herbs in it to make it more promising. The traditional healers of Southern Chhattisgarh recommend the external application of Garcinia oil in treatment of burning sensation in extermties. Its use is continued till complete cure. The patients having the problem of Chhapaki (Urticaria) are suggested by the healers to apply the oil during attack, on blisters. According to the patients, it reduces the intensity of problem effectively in very less time. The traditional healers of Bhopalpatnam region recommend the internal use of Garcinia oil, by diluting it, in treatment of Diarrhoea. But as other promising and cheap alternatives are available, the healers use it less frequently. They are aware of external use of Garcinia oil in treatment of piles also. The reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India are full of information regarding medicinal uses and properties to Garcinia plant parts. According to Ayurveda, its fruits possess anthelminitc and cardiotonic properties. It is a promising appetizer. According to Unani system of medicine, its fruits are useful in treatment of bleeding piles, dysentery, tumours, pains, heart troubles etc. The above mentioned traditional uses have yet not been documented. I am feeling proud to document these traditional medicinal uses popular among the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh.
Thank you very much for reading the article.
Related References
Please visit
Comments