Pankaj Oudhia's Research Documents on Biodiversity and Traditional Healing. Part-8

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Traditional Medicinal Knowledge about common herbs used for the treatment of Pelea or Pelia (Jaundice) in Chhattisgarh, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved In Chhattisgarh, over 250 species of herbs are used to treat the Jaundice. The list of traditional healers clearly indicates that most of the traditional healers are aware of Jaundice treatment. Very few are specialized in this treatment. During my ethnomedico surveys, I have noted increasing number of patients suffering from Jaundice. Although the natives are aware of allopathic treatment of Jaundice, but still most of them prefer to take medicine from traditional healers as compared to the qualified allopathic doctors. During 1994, When I was student at Agriculture College, Raipur and was on practical training at Zonal Agricultural Research Station, Ajirma (Sarguja) for the first time, I got an opportunity to see the use of common herbs for the treatment of Jaundice. The native and traditional healers of this region ve rich traditional medicinal knowledge about herbs used in the treatment of Jaundice. During my survey at Pilkha hills with the traditional healers, I noted the healers most frequently use Bhuiaonla herb in their drug mixtures. Common and popular names of Bhuiaonla around the world. Languages/Regions/Countries Names 1) Arabic Mekatkata, Meneckete 2) Bengal Bhujamla, Kiraneli 3) Brazil Erva pombinha 4) Myanmar Miziphiyu 5) Kanarese So Cheu 6) French Herbe du chagrin 7) Gujarati Bhonya anmali ndi Bhuinavalah, Jangli Amli, Jaramala 9) Malyalam Kirganelli, Kinzhanelli 10) Marathi Bhui avall 11) Philippines Hierba de son Paula, Hierba de San Pedro 12) Sanskrit Amliko, Amrita, Aphala, Bahupatra, Bahupushpi, Bhudhatri, Dalaparshni, Jhatamala, Nilalika, Shiva. 13) Sinhalese Pittawaka 14) Spanish Yerbade quining, Yerbade quinono 15) Tamil Kilanelli, Kilkkaynelli 16) Telugu Nelausirika, Nelausari 17) Urdu Bhui Amla 18) West Indies Petit Tamasin blant 19) Uriya Bhui aola The traditional healer of Ajirma region advise his patients to come at early morning, before sunrise. Before arrival of his patients, the healer visit to nearby fields for the collection of fresh herbs. The herb at fruiting stage is preferred. As Bhuiaonla occur in Chhattisgarh as wasteland plant, the traditional healer have not to walk long in search of herb. He prefers the herb from non-cultivated lands and give least preference to the herb from crop fields. The panchang (whole plant with roots) is collected and washed in well water. After cleaning, the healer crush the herb with the help of stone and prepare globules. Each globule is equal to the size of matured Ber (Ziziphus mauritiana) fruit. When patient suffering from Jaundice come for the treatment, the healer instruct him to swallow this globule with fresh cow milk (without boiling it). After swallowing, in general there is no problem but many patients vomit it. In this case, the healer advise them to try it again. The healer repeat this treatment up to ten days and according to him, this is sufficient to cure Jaundice. He is well known in the region for his miracle treatment. When I talked to the healer, he told me that he is practicing this treatment successfully since his childhood, and he gives whole credit of uccess to God and his forefathers. Like other traditional healers of Chhattisgarh, he never charges fees or take any gift from the patients Although his formula is not a secret one, but native believes that Bhuiaonala is effective only if the healer prepare mixture and give it to the patients by his own hands. The traditional healer clearly denies that he have any special powder to make the herb more potential. According to him, many fellow healers never disclose this formula and perform special dances and utter mantras to impress the patients. In many cases, this drama is essential but not in every case. The main source of earning is farming for this healer. When I told him that I am engaged in promotion of herbal farming, he warned that never try to cultivate the herbs. According to him, the human beings never make any herb as potent (through cultivation) as it occur in nature. And this is the reason that the traditional healer avoid to use the herb collected from cultivated fields. Later on from my other surveys, I got confirmation about the use of Bhuionla for the treatment of Jaundice. In Bagbahera region, the traditional healers use over 10 herbs to prepare special mixture for patients. I got opportunity to visit the forests with the traditional . The traditional healers of Bagbahera, use Bhuiaonla as major component in the specially prepared mixture. Bhuiaonla is one of the high value non wood forest produces of Chhattisgarh. From crop fields and forest areas, many tons of dried herb is transported to the national markets. Unfortunately, the farmers are not aware of this transportation and also about its high demand. Like other weeds, Bhuiaonla is also considered as harmful plant by most of the farmers. The regional research institutes recommend many toxic agrochemicals to manage this weed. As hand weeding is a common weed control method in Chhattisgarh, most of the farmers uproot this weed and dump it outside their farms. The traders collect this weed (not for them) free of cost and sell it to national traders at fairly high rates. During my campaign to aware the common people about identification, harms and management of an obnoxious weed Parthenium hysterophorus, I always try to inform the farmers about the utilities of these so called unwanted plants. As herb expert, I am aware about the use and demand of these weeds in national and international markets but this is very difficult task to convince the farmers that they can earn an additional income from these so called unwanted plants. Last year I conducted a preliminary survey focused on the general knowledge (related to herbs) among the traders. The survey revealed that most of the traders are not aware about end uses of herbs, they sell to the national buyers. They are also not aware of national and international rates. This is the reason that they are not getting good returns from the national buyers. The same is the case of Bhuiaonla in Chhattisgarh. I personally feel that after proper training at different levels the government can do a lot to help these traders, collectors and also to the farmers. As medicine Bhuiaonla holds a reputed position in different systems of medicine. The scientific name of Bhuiaonla is Phyllanthus niruri (family Euphorbiaceae). In reference literatures, I have found this detail about Bhuiaonla. It is an annual herb with 30-60 cm. height; stem branched at the base and angular; Leaves numerous, distichous, elliptic-oblong; flowers yellowish, numerous, axillary, monoecious; males 1-3, females solitary; disk of the male of minute glands, of female, annular, lobed; Fruits capsule, very small, globose, smooth, scarcely lobed; seeds trigonous, longitudinally ribbed on the back. Flowering time in Chhattisgarh condition varies between June to September. In other parts of India, natives are also aware of unique medicinal properties of Bhuiaonla. In Harpalpur (U.P.) Mr. Madan, a native, told me that he has successfully used the roots of Bhuiaonla for the treatment of Jaundice. When I shared my experience with whole plant against Jaundice, he showed ignorance towards the use of whole plant. Mr. Madan prefer fresh root whereas Mr. B.N. Patel from Rajkot told me that the decoction of root is more beneficial as compared to fresh root. My major surveys were focused in Chhattisgarh and at present I am engaged in the same state. I feel that it is hard to write complete details in form of articles in one life. When I meet the traditional healers and natives from other states of India, my tension increases, really a big assignment and never ending task are waiting for me in these states. Through this article, I would like to request (humbly) the young generation to participate actively in this herculean task and assignment, for the benefit of human beings around the world. In Ayurveda, the medicinal properties of Bhuinaonla are well described. According to Ayurveda, it is alexipharmic, cooling and acrid, and useful in bronchitis, leprosy, thirst, anaemia, urinary discharges, anuria, biliousness, asthma, hiccup, and scabies. Many traditional healers of Chhattisgarh, recommend their patients to wear a garland of specific herb parts in order to get rid from Jaundice. Although the modern science is not ready to accept the effects of herbal garland (Mala) but the natives have deep faith in nal healers practicing this treatment and the healers have deep faith in the knowledge gained from forefathers. During my surveys, I have noted the use of roots for the treatment of Jaundice. The traditional healer of Bastar, recommend his patients to use the garland prepared by him against Jaundice. He says to the patients that use this garland till cure and after complete cure, he takes the garland back and burry it near Pipal tree (Ficus religiosa). During long discussion on Jaundice herbs, he informed me about the use the roots of Punarnava in this garland. After discussion, I requested him that I want to visit the forest and to see the procedure he adopt to collect the Punarnava herb. He agreed. The traditional healer adopt no specific method for collection of herb. They prefer the Punarnava of forest origin. He never use digging instrument made up of iron. According to him, this metal is harmful for the medicinal properties of Punarnava. In Chhattisgarh, two varieties of Punarnava grow in natural conditions. One can simply distinguish these varieties on the basis of flower colour. The red flowered variety is less preferred as compared to the white flowered variety. But at the time of collection, the healer take special precaution to select the herb at vegetative stage. In order to avoid confusion, he marks the spots where white flowered varieties commonly grows. During my surveys, I have noted both of these varieties prefer different types of micro environment. Very rarely they together. This year I am planning to study the micro-environment required or preferred by these varieties. The healer listed many tree species around which the specific variety prefers to grow. The healer collect the roots and after washing , he cut it into 21-22 small After cutting, with the help of string, the garland is prepared. (Many traditional healers use the fruits of Xanthium in same manner in order to get rid from headache. You can find the detail in my previous article on Traditional medicinal knowledge about common herbs used for the treatment of migraine in Chhattisgarh, India). According to the traditional healer, there is no specific colour for string is recommended. Many traditional healers of state, use 8 or 9 parallel healer of Dalli-Rajhara preferred coloured string as compared to other colours. He has no reason for this specific colour. In Bilaspur region, many traditional healers, use the roots of Bhuiaonla alone or in combination with the roots of Punarnava. The roots of both species are put alternatively in the garland. According to them they make decision, on the use of species according to the severity of the disease. I have listed over 15 herbs used for preparation of garland. Out of these 15 herbs, the roots of Bhuiaonla, Bhirra, Punarnava and Neem are most frequently used by the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh. I have searched many literatures in order to find out the science behind it but not got much success. These garlands are locally known as Mala and Tabiz. In case of Tabiz, the small box is put in garland containing the piece of root and mantras written on small piece of paper. The use of Tabiz is less popular as compared to the Mala. Many healers advise to put the Tabiz on other parts of body also. In many parts of Chhattisgarh, the healers use this garland in order to prevent the attack of Jaundice disease. I personally feel that there is a strong need for scientific evaluation to know the efficacies of these garlands, against Jaundice. Punarnava is popular potherb in Chhattisgarh. It is a wasteland plant (a weed for farmers) in Chhattisgarh. According to the traditional healer of Patan region, its use as potherb prevents the Jaundice and also useful in case of Jaundice. This information is not documented in available literature. Many natives particularly the old villagers have confirmed the use of this potherb against Jaundice. The internal use of its roots in treatment of Jaundice is mentioned in reference literatures. According to Ayurveda, Punarnava is bitter, cooling, astringent to bowels; useful in blood disorders, anaemia, inflammations, heart and respiratory diseases and leucorrhoea. The scientific name of Punarnava is Boerhaavia diffusa (family Nyctaginaceae). Like Bhuiaonla and Punarnava, Imli is also a common non-wood forest produce in Chhattisgarh. Many traditional healers advise their patients to drink the leachate of Imli fruit as a treatment of Jaundice. The fresh fruit (pod) is put in water whole night and next morning the patient is advised to drink the water empty stomach. The natives of Chhattisgarh are also aware of this treatment. According to the traditional healer of Rajnandgaon, alone Imli Pani (Pani-water) is not sufficient for treatment, it is just supplement. He use the sugar syrup of common herb Chicory with Imli Pani. Chicory is not native to Chhattisgarh. It was introduced in Chhattisgarh with fodder crops from other parts of India. The healer told me that his father was purchasing the herb at that time for the preparation of drug but now this is easily available in fodder crop fields particularly in Berseem fields. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh also use the herb Raksi for the treatment of Jaundice. Raksi is problematic rice weed. The healers recommend this herb with honey to patients suffering from ndice. According to them seven regular doses (one every day) can cure any stage of Jaundice in very short time. I would like to describe its botany in very short. It is an annual hairy herb, height up to 3 meters; Leaves broadly ovate-orbicular, acute or obtuse, crenate-dentate or undulate. Flowers solitary, axillary; pedicels usually geniculate. Calyx campanulate, in fruit stellately spreading, much shorter than the schizocarp; lobes 3-4 mm long, triangular, hairy; Corolla 25-30 mm across, hairy, yellow or orange - yellow; petals obovate. Schizocarps globular with a flat or indented apex. Sees glabrous or hairy. Flowering time is Chhattisgarh varies between August to March. Besides use of herbs for the treatment, the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh give an equal emphasis on the diet of patients. They advise the patients to cure the problem of constipation first. They emphasize on inclusion of garlic, onion, ginger, bitter gourd etc. in regular diet for early cure. The flowers of Babool (Acacia nilotica) is also used with sugar for treatment by many traditional healers. Untkatara (Echinops echinatus) as medicinal herb in Chhattisgarh, India : Traditional Medicinal Knowledge, Occurrence and Trade Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved According to the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh, all plants of Echinops are not suitable for preparation of drugs. They adopt special method to select the most potential plants. The healers put the living plants under pressure of stones whole night and next morning after removing the stones, they check the vitality of plants. The plants remained alive under the pressure of stones are considered as best plants and locally it is known as ‘Nar’ (the male) plants. The healers use all most every parts of these Nar plants to prepare medicines. These medicines are used both internally and externally. In my ethnomedico surveys, I have never seen or noted, the special method used for other herbs, as used in case of Echinops. The traditional healers told me that from generations they are selecting the Nar plants by adopting this method to prepare medicines. Many of them, have tested and compared the efficacies of both Nar and Mada (The female) plants and according to them, they have found the Nar plants more useful as compared to Mada plants . This is unique selection method and in reference literatures. I have yet not read any such selection method. Echinops is not native to India but it holds a reputed position in all most all indigenous systems of medicine. In Chhattisgarh, it is a common wasteland weed. The natives and traditional s of the state are wall aware of different unique medicinal uses and properties of Echinops. In local language it is also known as Kanta Van, Kantila, Gol Kanta Phool etc. I have observed its natural occurrence in all most every part of the state. Common and popular names of Untkatara (Echinops echinatus) around the world 1) Arabic Ashtarkhar 2) Gujarati Shuliyo, Utkanto, Utkato 3) Hindi Gokhru, Utkunta, Utakatira, Untkatara 4) Marathi Kadechubak, Utanti, Utati, Utkatara 5) Persian Astarkhar nskrit Kantalu, Kantaphala, Karamadana, Raktapushpa, Mukh adantarujapaha, Shrigala, Usthrakanta, Utati, Utkantaka, Vrittaguchha 7) Urdu Untkatara During my ethnomedico surveys at Bastar region, I noted its specific use to hasten the process of delivery. It is general practice in the region that in order to hasten the process of delivery, the natives tie the root of Echinops in hairs of pregnant woman. In many parts of Chhattisgarh, the healers prepare an aqueous paste with its root and apply it in lower abdominal region of pregnant woman for same purpose. In northern part of Chhattisgarh, the healers advise the woman to take internally the aqueous paste of Echinops roots for quick and safe delivery. The roots of Chirchita (Achyranthes aspera) are also used for same purpose by the healers but these roots are tied in waist instead of hair. The traditional healers informed me that Echinops roots are good substitute to Achyranthes roots. In case of Achyranthes roots, the healer use red string to tie the roots but for Echinops roots there is no specific recommendations. Many healers informed me that fresh Echinops roots are not much effective in this case. They adopt special method for its collection. In the day of Lunar or Solar eclipse, the healers visit to the patches of Echinops plants with the grains of wild rice, Haldi powder (Turmeric) and river water. After reaching at the spot, the healers irrigate the roots with the aqueous solution containing grains of wild rice and Haldi powder and after two hours, they dig the roots of Echinops. As the Solar or Lunar eclipse are rare phenomenon, the traditional healers try to collect more and more roots during these occasions and keep it carefully for future use. The roots are very valuable for them. It is general belief in Chhattisgarh that these roots reduces the power of opponent or enemies, if any person keeps it with him or her. It is also general belief that keeping these roots in home protect the home from bad evils and venomous creatures. According to the healers every one must keep these roots with him in order to remain health and wealthy. The natives purchase these specially collected roots by giving very high prices to the local healers. In case of delivery, the natives prefer to use these roots under supervision of healers, because the healers know better that how long it should be kept on hairs. Most of healers remove the roots immediately after child birth. According to them, after child birth, the presence of these rots in contact with human body can cause a great damage. After removing the roots, they wash it with river water and again put it in their medicine box for future use. How many times these roots are used or after how many days roots loose its medicinal properties ? When I asked this question to healers, they replied that there is no specific recommendations but after using these roots 50-60 times, they replace the roots. In many parts of Chhattisgarh, the roots as considered as "Lucky roots" and in urban areas it is common practice to keep the roots inside the pant’s pocket. I am trying to search the science behind this general belief. In case of snake or scorpion bite many healers use the aqueous extract of roots both internally and externally. According to them it is good first aid remedy. I personally feel that there is a strong need for scientific investigation particularly to study the effect of the rice grains, Haldi powder and river water on the medicinal properties of roots. Echinops is a reputed sex tonic in Chhattisgarh. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh use this herb in different ways both internally and externally. I am describing some of the rare information on its uses, I have gathered from the traditional healers specialized in the treatment of sex related problems. The traditional healer of Durg, has given a lot of information about the potential of its roots. His herbal powder (Churna) for sex stimulation is very popular in the region. According to him, he uses the root bark of Echinops as main ingredient in this powder. The patients are advised to mix this powder in water and apply it on male genitals externally one hour before intercourse. The patients having poor vitality are advised to use pure honey in place of water for better results. I have interviewed many satisfied patients and according to them it is good remedy to delay the ejaculation. The healer is very famous among beaurocrates, but he never discloses the secret formula. Unlike other traditional healers, he charges very high fees for this powder. He told me that he uses over 20 herbs with Echinops roots but other healers informed me that alone Echinops roots have enough potential to show the results. The traditional healers of Dhamtari region use the root barks of Echinops, Fudhar (Calotropis gigantea), Dhatra (Datura stramonium) in equal proportion to prepare a herbal powder for same purpose. The root barks are crushed into powder and after this, the powder is mixed in Dhatra leaf juice and Kukronda (Blumea lacera) leaf juice. The patients are advised to apply this fresh paste on genitals in order to avoid premature ejaculation. Many healers add the Kaner (Nerium sp.) root bark or Blumea root bark in order to make the powder more effective. The root bark is also used in different formulation used as sex tonic. The healer of Dewkar village, told me that he boil the root bark with fresh cow milk and recommend it to newly married couples as sex tonic. According to him, it is effective sex tonic for both male and female. He also told me that one can also add Safed Musli (Chlorophytum borivilianum), Kali Musli (Curculigo orchoides), Kevatch (Mucuna pruriens) in this preparation. Like, Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata) leaves, the leaves of Echinops are also used as preventive to malarial fever in Chhattisgarh. The decoction is prepared using Echinops leaves and patients are advised to take it regularly in order to avoid the malaria fever. It is also used for the treatment of malaria. I have observed that the use of Echinops leaves is less popular in comparison to Kalmegh leaves. Many healers use the Echinops roots and leaves in case of respiratory troubles. The dried roots and leaves are collected and put on fire. The patients suffering from respiratory troubles particularly the asthma are advised to inhale the fumes in order to get quick and permanent relief. These parts are an essential component of popular Herbal cigarettes in the state. The traditional healer of Gandai region, uses the Echinops roots internally in case of respiratory troubles. He uses the root powder and advise his patient to take 4-5 gms of powder daily till relief. According to him, the Echinops roots are effective in combination with other herbs also. The traditional healer of Ahiwara region uses the Echinops flowers as eye tonic. He told me that he has got the information from his father, who was qualified Ayurvedic practitioner. He collects the flowers and mix it with rose petals. He gives the mixture of both flowers in form of powder to his patients and advise them to mix it in water in specific ratio and use it as eye tonic. In combination with common weeds Duddhi (Euphorbia hirta) and Kaua Kaini (Commelina benghalensis), the traditional healer of Narharpur, prepare a decoction and used it for patients suffering from severe Kidney pain. He also recommends the use of powdered herbs including Echinops, as external application on kidney region for quick relief. I have noted its use in over 45 common diseases in Chhattisgarh. Many of these uses are documented in reference literatures but I am proud to say that the natives and traditional healers are still using it and adding new herbs in old combinations. From reference literatures. I have noted that it is a good food of Unt (Camel) and it is commonly known as Unt Ki Jalebi (A sweet dish of camel) in desert state of India (i.e. Rajasthan). In Chhattisgarh, Unt are not present either as wild or domestic animal. In absence of Unt, Echinops is flourishing well in different parts. I have not seen any serious disease or insect infestation on this common inops is a valuable non-timber forest produce in Chhattisgarh but it is not in high demand. Possibly due to its natural occurrence in abundance in many other states of India. Most of the roots collected by the tribal are utilized by the healers in the state. As it is not a crop weed, farmers generally avoid to come in contact with this spiny weed. I would like to give botanical description of this herb before ending this article. It is an annual prostrate herb up to 70cm high. Leaves sessile, oblong, 7-12 cm long, pinnatifid; lobes triangular, spinescent; spines 2-3 cm long, pale, scabrous above, white arachnoid beneath. heads compound, forming a spherical ball, 3-4 cm in diameter, having single bisexual white floret. Involucre surrounded by strong white bristles, resembling pappus; bracts tri cuspidate, sharp spinose; inner bracts 6-7 mm long, connate; white, tubular, 5-lobed. Achenes obconic, densely villous, pappus bristly deciduous. Flowering times varies between November to January in Chhattisgarh conditions. In reference literatures, many medicinal properties and uses of Echinops are mentioned but the details about the information like selection of plant parts, methods to be adopted are not mentioned with full details. My surveys are still on and daily I am getting information on new uses of these lucky roots. I am sure that in near future I will be able to provide more information on traditional medicinal knowledge of Echinops to the world community. Thanks a lot for reading this article. Interactions with the natives of Tilda (Chhattisgarh, India) region having rich traditional medicinal knowledge about common herbs Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved The most important information I got from the natives of Tilda region, is the use of rice roots in narcotic drinks in order to increase its effects. This is really surprising that the uses of rice roots in this form and also as medicine are not well described in reference literatures. The native of Chhattisgarh are fond of Ganja and Bhang. Before going in detail, I would like to explain Ganja and bhang. re the products of Cannabis sativa. Bhang is composed of dried leaves and flowering shoots of male and female plants whereas Ganja consists of dried unfertilized female inflorescences. The active principle of Bhang and Ganja is resinous exudation from glandular hairs on leaves, stems and inflorescences. Bhang is taken in form of drink- whereas Ganja is used for smoking. The natives of Tilda region, use rice roots both in Ganja and Bhang. As you know Chhattisgarh is well known for its rice production. Many medicinal rice varieties have also been reported in Chhattisgarh. Also the natives and traditional healers use medicinal rice soils for the treatment of common diseases. Unfortunately, very few natives are aware of medicinal properties of rice roots and its use is limited to limited natives. According to the natives the addition of rice roots is not recommended for the beginners. It can cause bad effects if not taken under strict supervision of regular users. Botanical differences among Pueraria species. haracteristics Pueraria lobata Pueraria phaseoloides Pueraria tuberosa 1. Habit A perennial hairy vine with numerous A woody, twining climber, clthed with A large, perennial climber stolons which root at nodes dense, spreading, brown hairs 2. Roots Long, thickened or tuberous roots, producing nodules, deep penetrating Tuberous, deep penetrating, with nodules. Very large, tuberous, upto 35 kg, connected with thin roots 3. Leaves Trifoliate; leaflets entire or shallowly 2-3 lobed, pubescent racemes, 20-50 cm long Trifoliate; leaflets entire or lobed, densely pubescent on lower surface Trifoliate 4. Flowers - Light lavender, often with whitish fringes in long - peduncled racemes. Blue or purplish - blue, in 15-30 cm long racemos. 5. Fruits Flat, oblong, linear, hairy pod, 5-10 cm long, 8-20 seeded Pubescent, 7-20 seeded, 5-11 cm long. Flat pod, densely clothed with long, silky bristly, brown hairs, 5-7 cm long. In Ganja, the natives add a small piece of rice roots in order increase its effectiveness. The traditional healers of this region informed me that they prepare a special type of cigarettes using rice roots in order to cure chronic headache particularly the migraine. They add Urai roots in order to suppress the bad effects of rice roots. Urai (Vetiveria zizanoides) is a common herb in Chhattisgarh. The state is well known for its unique Urai roots in national and international markets. From reference literatures, I have noted the medicinal properties of Urai roots. According to these literatures, powdered root is cooling, refrigerant, diuretic, stimulant and tonic. In many parts of India, the natives use the cigarettes prepared from Urai roots with benzoin in order to treat headache. But the use of Urai roots with rice roots is not mentioned. I am proud to say that the natives of Chhattisgarh have rich traditional medicinal knowledge about the use of rice roots with Urai roots and also this is in practice. The native and traditional healers prefer the roots collected before flowering of the rice plants. They also prefer the roots of indigenous varieties, not the roots of high yielding varieties. They avoid the fields in which chemical inputs have been used for cultivation. The traditional healers of region, told me that they utter some mantras before collecting these roots to be used as medicine. Sometime back Mr. Vinod Shukla, a qualified engineer, from Bilaspur region met me with information on use of common herbs. He confirmed the use of rice roots both in Bhang and Ganja. He informed me that in his region, the traditional healers extract the oil from rice roots. This was absolutely new information for me. I was aware of rice bran oil but never heard about the oil from rice roots. Last week I got the sample and now I am studying the medicinal properties of this oil with the help of my biochemist friend. I am also planning to visit Bilaspur region, in search of information regarding traditional medicinal uses of rice root Common and popular names of Patal Kumhda (Pueraria tuberosa) around the world anguages/Regions/Counties Names 1) Bengal Shimiabatraji 2) Hindi Badar, Bankumra, Bedarikand, Bilaikand, Billi, Bodar, Bolaikand, Dedarikand, Patalkand, Patalkahnda 3) Marathi Badra, Bharda, Dari, Pitham, Vendari, Virdari 4) Panjabi Saloha, Salar, Siali, Sural 5) Sanskrit Bhukushmandi, Bhumikushmand, Gajavajipriya, Gajeshta, Gandhaphala, Ikshugundha, Kstriravalli, Payasvini, Srigalika, Shukla, Vidarika, Vidarikanda 6) Telugu Darigummadi, Kubayatige 7) Uriya Buinkakarkara, Handiphuta, Katoka. During my visits to Tilda region, I have noted the natural occurrence of Patalkumhda (Pueraria tuberosa) in abundance. The natives use this herb as veterinary medicine. In case of sickness, they feed the cattle one kg of big tubers. According to them the tuber acts as tonic and cattle get enough resistance to fight the diseases. Mr. Verma of Pondsiri village told me that it is very tedious job to dig the Patal kumhda tubers. The natives use the tuber and leaves as vegetable. The traditional healers informed me that the vegetable prepared from tuber is good for health and develops resistance in body. Patal Kumhda is one of the well known non-wood forest produces of Chhattisgarh. Every year, it gives employment to many poor families engaged in collection of this herb. In Sanskrit it is known as Vidari Kand and as medicine it is an integral part of over 100 popular drug combinations in India. There is a good demand of this herb in national and international drug markets. In English it is named as Thunberg Kudzu vine (family Papilionaceae) and you will be surprised to know that in many countries including Australia, it is considered as obnoxious weed and the scientists recommend the use of harmful (to environment) agrochemicals to root out this herb. This is very sad. As member of different e-mail discussion group. I suggested the scientists considering this herb as weed to promote the utilization of this herb. This utilization can not only help in removal of weed but also help the natives to earn additional income from these so called weeds. The most important thing is that the utilization of Kudzu vine minimize the use of harmful (to environment) agrochemicals. But unfortunately, they are not ready to adopt this concept. In India, we are developing agro-practices for commercial cultivation of this useful herb. Common and popular names of Urai (Vetiveria sp.) around the world. Languages/Regions/Countries Names 1) Arabic Izkhir, Usir 2) Bengal Bena, Khaskhas, Khor, Kuskus 3) Myanmar Miyamoe 4) Kanarese Dhappa, Sajjai hullu, Kadu karai, Lavancha 5) Chienese Ko cha 6) English Cuscus, Vetiver, Koosa 7) Hindi Bala, Bahah, Ganrar, Kaskas, Khas, Panni, Usir 8) Malyalam Ramachchamver, Vettiver 9) Marathi Vala 10) Philippines Moro, Raiz do Moro 11) Persian Bikkhiwala, Khas 12) Sanskrit Abhaya, Amrinala, Avadaha, Jalashaya, Ushira, Indragupta, Ishtakapatha 13) Tamil Vakil, Vettiver, Vilhalver, Viranam, Virkel 14) Telugu Avurugaddiveru, Kassavu, Kuruveru 15) Sinhalese Saivandera, Savand ramul 16) Uriya Bena du Khas In Tilda region, the natives use the bark of Jamrasi or Jumrasi in order to treat many common diseases. During the search of reference literatures, I have not found much description regarding medicinal properties of Jamrasi. The natives informed me that its barks are best remedy for Jhun Jhuni Vaat (A type of rheumatism). They use the powder of bark with Jaggery (Gud). Very minute quantity is used for treatment. In general, they prepare a globule having size of Lentil (Masoor) seeds. According to them , over dose can cause loose motions and cramps in stomach. Mr. Verma of Pondisri informed me that few decades back there were many Jamrasi trees but due to illegal felling, now only few trees are present. The wood of Jamrasi is used for cabinet work. The increasing population pressure is again a responsible factor for its decreasing population. The scientific name of Jamrasi is Cassine glauca ( Syn. Mangifera glauca syn. Elaeodendron glaucum syn. E. roxburghii, family Celastraceae). It is a large evergreen tree, up to 5 meters high : Leaves simple, opposite, coriaceous, elliptic or obovate, crenate, acuminate, glabrous, dark green at maturity, upper surface shining, under surface glaucous; Inflorescence an axillary dichotomous cyme; Flower white or greenish yellow;. Stamens four, inserted on the margin of the disk, recurved; anthers with a bilobed connective; Disk fleshy, tri-lobbed; Ovary 4-celled united with the disk; style short; fruit green in colour, ovoid and a drupe. Flowering time in Chhattisgarh conditions varies between February to May. During my last visit to Tilda region, I got an opportunity to visit the traditional healer of Mudpar region Mr. Hanumat Prasad Verma, expert in treatment of almost all common diseases. He takes no charge for his treatment and frequently visits to forests (100 kms. far from his village) by bicycle in search and collection of herbs. He uses the combination of herbs instead of single herb. will write a separate article on the traditional knowledge of Mr. Verma. Here I am describing the uses of some herbs I have seen in his small village clinic. In case of bone fracture I noted that the healer uses the combination of Muscaini and Bhuiaonla herbs for external and internal application. Both herbs are easily available in crop fields. Muscaini (Ipomoea reniformis) is a popular potherb whereas the Bhuiaonla(Phyllanthus niruri) is popular liver tonic in Chhattisgarh. According to him the internal doses of common herb Launea asplenifolia (family Compositae) can cure any type of headaches. In reference literatures, galactagogue properties of Launea are described but I have yet not read its utility in case of headaches. He uses Lajjawanti (Mimosa pudica) herb in case of bleeding piles (Bavasir). He takes the leaves of Lajjawanti in glass and warm it lightly. After warming he extracts the Juice from leaves. The patients are advised to take a teaspoonful of this juice internally and apply this juice on bleeding piles with clean hand in order to get quick relief. He treats the patients suffering from Jaundice with special mantras. His assistant told me that every week he suggests the patient to visit his village clinic to take special bath. For this special bath he uses the bark of Mango tree and dehydrated lime. The traditional is well known in the region for his expertise in the treatment of sickle cell anaemia, common in specific communities in Chhattisgarh. According to him, he uses the Indrajau herb in combination with other herbs to cure this disease. During my surveys at Tilda region, I have got some unique information on use of herbs. I personally feel that there is a need of detailed surveys and scientific research to find the science behind these uses. As informed earlier, the medicinal property of rice roots is new rmation and this is the area on which scientists should focus their studies. Due to overproduction of rice in state, farmers are not getting good prices. The studies on medicinal properties of rice can open a new opportunity in the field of utilization of different rice varieties. Kalihari (Gloriosa superba) and Panphooti (Bryophyllum pinnatum) as medicinal herbs in Chhattisgarh, India : Traditional Medicinal Knowledge Natural Occurrence, Cultivation and Trade Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved In Chhattisgarh, Kalihari is under cultivation from 1996. It is planted as Kharif season crop. The area under this herb has not much increased because lack of market infrastructure in the state. The farmers are cultivating this herb only with the aim to provide planting material to the beginners. It is commercially propagated through its ‘V’ shaped underground tubers. Most of the farmers are adopting organic farming practices for commercial cultivation of Kalihari. Although natural occurrence of Kalihari in natural forests of Chhattisgarh has not been reported by the early workers but during my ethnomedico surveys I have seen isolated patches of Kalihari. In the list of herbs from the buyers of nearby big cities, you can get information that the buyers are well aware of natural occurrence of Kalihari in Chhattisgarh. I have noted its natural occurrence in Pendra and Bastar region. As many other states of India including Tamilnadu fulfill the demand of national and international markets there is no pressure on Kalihari herb in Chhattisgarh. Common Indian Names of Kalihari Languages/Regions Names 1) Gujarati Dudhia vachhonag 2) Hindi Kalihari, Kathari, Kulhari, Languli 3) Kanarese Akkitang hall, Huliyaguru, Nangulika, Sivasaktibalb 4) Malyalam Indai, Karianag, Khadyanag 5) Sanskrit Agnimukhi, Garbhapatani, Kalikari e traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are well aware of medicinal properties of Kalihari. They use Kalihari for the treatment of over 50 common diseases. In reference literatures it is mentioned that the roots of Kalihari are poisonous in nature and one must take care while using it. But according to the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh, the root is not so poisonous. During my visits to Bastar region, I have seen some practical uses of Kalihari roots. At the time of delivery, like roots of Echinops, Kalihari roots are also used to ease this process. It is common practice to apply the aqueous paste of Kalihari roots on the sole of both hand and legs and sometimes in lower abdomen, in order to hasten the process. Many healers advise the woman to put a piece of Kalihari roots in hair knot and to tie it in waist for same purpose. The traditional healers remove the paste and root pieces just after the delivery in order to avoid harmful effects. In Chhattisgarh, the traditional healers use roots for the treatment of Leucoderma. The aqueous paste of roots is applied externally on spots. In many places, it is used as remedy to reduce pain resulting from bites of poisonous insects. In reference literatures, many medicinal properties of Kalihari have been mentioned. According to Ayurveda, tubers are pungent, bitter, acrid, heating, anthelmintic, laxative, alexiteric, abortifacient, and useful in chronic ulcers, leprosy, inflammations, piles, abdominal pains, itching and thirst. In other parts of India, the native and traditional healers, use this herb very frequently both internally and externally. I would like to give some details regarding its botany. It is herbaceous, tall, branching climber root-stock of arched, solid, fleshy-white cylinderic tubers, stems annual, given off from young tubers; leaves sessile, scattered or opposite, sometimes whorled, ovate lanceolate, tip ending in a tendril-like spiral; Flowers large, solitary, axillary, perianth segments reaching 6.3-7.0 cm, linear-lanceolate, margins wavy, changing colours from greenish yellow, orange, scarlet and crimson from blooming to fading; filaments long spreading, fruits capsule linear oblong. Flowering time in Chhattisgarh conditions varies between July to September. In my allelopathic studies, I have observed harmful allelopathic effects of different parts of Kalihari on germination and seedling vigor of many obnoxious weeds viz. Parthenium, Lantana and Echinochloa crussgalli. The aqueous extracts of Kalihari leaves have showed detrimental effects on eggs of Orange banded blister beetle (Zonabris pustulata) and Tortoise beetle (Aspidomorpha miliaris). Many farmers engaged in organic farming in the state, are using different parts of Kalihari in order to repel away harmful insects. Like Cynodon dactylon, Achyranthes aspera, Tridax procumbens, Blumea lacera, the leaves of Bryophyllum are also used as first aid remedy to stop bleeding. The natives and traditional healers both are well aware of healing properties of Bryophyllum. In Chhattisgarh, the natural occurrence is limited to very small and isolated areas. It is common garden herb and traditional healers always advise the natives to plant this herb in home gardens. The healers grow this herb in their own gardens to fulfill the requirement of herb for the eparation of drugs. According to them it is one of the frequently used valuable herbs for them. In case of severe injuries, the traditional healers prepare an aqueous paste from this herb and apply it on affected parts. In case of septic wounds the healers use specially prepared Bryophyllum oil for external application. They use the powder of Harra (Terminalia chebula) and the leaves of common rice weed Kanghi (Locally known as Raksi, Abutilon indicum), along with the leaf powder of Bryophyllum to prepare oil. The healers use these herbs in different ratio. Many healers add leaf powder of Cynodon dactylon or Blumea lacera in this combination. The traditional healer of Gandai uses 60gms of Harra powder, 250 gms (each) of Kanghi and Bryophyllum leaves. All powders are mixed in oil and burnt the powder in the oil. This oil is used for the treatment of wounds. In case of nose bleed (Epistaxis), it is common practice to apply few drops of Bryophyllum leaf juice in nose to arrest the bleeding. In case of high fever, the tribal of Bastar region, use the fresh juice of Bryophyllum. They apply it on whole body and advise the patient to cover the body to avoid the exposure. In case of headache due to less sleep, the traditional healers advise the patients to apply the juice on head for quick relief. The natives of Bagbahera region, use the fresh leaf juice to repel away the mosquito. They apply the juice on infant’s body in order to protect him from mosquito bites. In case of scorpion bite, the healer of Tilda region, suggests the patient to apply the fresh leaf juice with common salt in affected apart to alleviate the sharp pain. During hot summer days, the natives use specially prepared Chatni from Bryophyllum leaves to make the body cool and resistance against hot winds ‘Loo". The natives add Coriander leaves, common salt, Cumin and other spices to give special taste to the Chutney. Many healers advise their patients suffering from fever to take this Chutney in order to change the bad taste of mouth and to increase the appetite. In case of dysentery, the natives of Chhattisgarh use the juice of leaves with sugar, internally, to get quick relief. The traditional healer of Mudpar, prepare a special oil using Bryophyllum leaves. He uses the leaf juice of Bryophyllum, Datura, Haldi (Turmeric) and Cynodon (Doobi) for preparation of oil. In case of severe pain in ears, he uses this oil. According to him, this oil is very effective and in most of the cases patients get relief with this simple treatment. In case of urine retention and other related troubles, the traditional healer suggests his patients to take the fresh leaf juice of Bryophyllum with rice water internally. Although Bryophyllum is not a native to India, but the healers have discovered many medicinal uses of Bryophyllum, and I am feeling proud that the natives and traditional healers are still using this herb in the treatment of many common diseases. For natives it is a good veterinary medicine. Once in a month the natives use the Bryophyllum leaf extract to wash their domestic cattle, specially in rainy days to prevent the attack of bloodsucking insects. They mix neem leaves sometimes in order to make the extract more potential and useful. In reference literatures related to indigenous systems of medicine, the details regarding Bryophyllum are mentioned. According to these literatures, both bark and leaves of this herb are useful but the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh use only leaves. In many books, it is mentioned that snakes and scorpions avoid the Bryophyllum, but the natives and traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are not aware of this fact. In reference literatures, I have found this botanical description of Bryophyllum. It is a succulent glabrous herb having height up to 1.5 meters (Family : Crassulaceae); Stems obtusely four angled, the older one light coloured whereas the younger one reddish, speckled with white; Leaves variable, decussate, lower usually simple, occasionally compound; upper 3-5-7 foliate; leaflets ovate, elliptic, crenate or serrate; Flowers pendant, in large panicles, with opposite branches; Corolla swollen and octagonal at the base, constricted in the middle, reddish purple, lobes triangular; fruits enclosed in the papery calyx and corolla; small, smooth; the leaves often produce on their crenatures. When punctured, buds with root, stem and leaves which drop off and become new-plants (this is the reason it is locally known as Panphooti). Flowering time in Chhattisgarh conditions varies between. December to February. Bryophyllum is not under cultivation in Chhattisgarh. After knowing its multiple uses and increasing local demand, many herb growers are now planning to cultivate this herb on trial basis. For traders and buyers, it is not a routine non-wood forest produce in Chhattisgarh. Traditional Medicinal Knowledge about Herbal Mala used for the treatment of common diseases in Chhattisgarh Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved The Harrap’s Easy English dictionary describes the term "Garland" as a circle of flowers or leaves worn as a decoration’. The word Mala is very close to Garland. In Mala generally flowers and leaves are main component and it is used to honour someone. In Herbal Mala, described in this article is common in Chhattisgarh and the traditional healers use roots in place of flowers and leaves. They advise the patients to wear this Herbal Mala for specific period or whole life, according to the trouble they are facing. Many traditional healers, suggests their patients to use Tabiz (Locket ) in place of Herbal Mala. In this Tabiz, they use roots of specific herbs. During my ethnomedico surveys in different parts of Chhattisgarh, I have collected a lot of information on Herbal Mala. I am describing some of the valuable information about Herbal Mala commonly used in Chhattisgarh. Common and popular names of Putranjiva around the world. Languages/Regions/Countries Names 1) Bengal Jiputa, Putranjiva 2) Myanmar Badihyu, Egayit, Taukyat 3) Kanarese Amani, Putrajiva, Mehasinal ale 4) Hindi Jiaputa, Jivputrak, Patji, Putranjiva 5) Malyalam Pongalam, Ponkolam 6) Marathi Jewanputr, Jivputrak 7) Sanskrit Garbhada, Jivanaputra, Kumarajiva, Pavitra, Mavu, Putrajiva, Putranjiva 8) Tamil Irukolli, Karupali, Karupilai 9) Telugu Kadrojuvi, Kudrajini, Putrajivika 10) Urdu Bholokoli, Pahunjona, Poichandia, Poitundia In case of Night pollution, a common disease among youths, the traditional healers of Bagbahera region recommend the patients to use specific Mala having Dhatura (Datura sp.) roots. Based on the severity of problems, the healers recommend the use of Black or white varieties of Dhatra. The patients having more than 2 to3 wet dreams in a single night are advised by the traditional healers to use herbal Mala having roots of black variety .As string, white colored string is preferred. In case of normal patient, the healers advise e of roots of white variety and in place of white colored string, black one is used. One the basis of severity, the healers use 3 or 6 gms of roots to prepare the Herbal Mala. The traditional healers of Rajnandgaon area, recommend white variety only to the their patients. According to them, they are aware of miracle healing properties of black variety but in their area, black variety is very rare. The traditional healers of Bilaspur region are not aware of white variety roots used for night pollution. They use only black variety. The traditional healers of Durg region, advise their patients to tie the Herbal Mala around the waist instead of neck. According to them, this is most effective method. They suggest their patients to wear this Herbal Mala whole day till relief. If it is not possible for them, then they instruct them to wear it at least during sleep. Datura occurs as wasteland herb in Chhattisgarh. As medicine, Datura holds a reputed position in all systems of medicine. Based on the colour of flowers, it is divided in many varieties including black and white. The black variety is preferred by the traditional healers as compared to the white variety. In reference literature, the use of Dhatura leaves and seeds are well mentioned but not much has been written on the use of roots. According to Ayurveda, the seeds and leaves are used for the treatment of leucoderma, skin diseases, ulcers, bronchitis, jaundice, piles, biliousness, eye pain, headache, nosetrouble, enlarged testicles, boils etc. whereas anti-inflammatory properties of roots are mentioned. Here I am describing the botanical description of Kala-Dhatura (Black variety) Datura fastuosa Linn. (Family : Solanaceae). It is a shrub having 30-60 cm height, somewhat zig-zag, divaricately branched; Leaves ovate, acute, entire or with large teeth or lobes, usually pubescent, very unequal at the base; flowers purple outside, white inside, double, solitary, long, tubular, funnel - shaped; limb with 5 or 6 deltoid lobes and a short tail in the middle of each intervening sinus; Fruits capsule, nodding, on curved stalk, sub globose, green , covered with straight sharp prickles ; Seeds numerous, packed, yellowish brown. Flowering time in Chhattisgarh conditions varies between August to January. For the same trouble (Night Pollution), the traditional healers of Sarguja region use the Herbal Mala prepared with roots of Nirgundi (Vitex negundo). They use red string in this Mala and advise the patient to wear it whole night. In general, they use 10 gms. of roots. Based on the severity of disease, they use the Mala having 3,5 or 7 root pieces. In reference literature, many medicinal properties of Nirgundi roots are mentioned excluding its use to treat Night pollution. According to Ayurveda, root is tonic, febrifuge, ectorant and diuretic. In order to avoid the Abortion, the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh use the Herbal Mala prepared from Shami roots. Shami trees are not common in Chhattisgarh. The traditional healers purchase the roots from local herb shops and use it. In general, the white coloured string is used to prepare Herbal Mala. The scientific name of Shami (also known as Jhand locally) is Prosopis cineraria (Family : Leguminoseae). Before describing another Herbal Mala, I would like to give botanical description of this tree Shami is a small tree with grey glabrous branches armed with scattered prickles; Leaves bipinnate; rachis 3-5 cm long, glabrous; pinnae mostly 2 pairs, opposite; leaflets 8-21 pairs, sessile, oblique rounded and mucronate at apex. Flowers yellow, in short peduncled, solitary or terminally panicled spikes. Calyx truncate, slightly 5-toothed; Corolla 3mm long; pods cylindrical, straight, torulose; seeds 10-18, seed colour dull brown. Flowering time in Chhattisgarh conditions varies between December to April. In reference literatures, the use of roots to prepare Herbal Mala is not mentioned. The traditional healers advise their patients to use this Herbal Mala to wear it either around neck or to tie it around their waist, in order to avoid abortion. In general, they use 6-8 gms of roots and only single piece of root is used to prepare the Herbal Mala. In Gandai region of Chhattisgarh, the Mala prepared from roots of Putranjiva tree is very popular. It is used to avoid abortion. Both natives and traditional healers are well aware of this property of Putranjiva roots. The scientific name of Putranjiva is Putranjiva roxburghii (family : Euphorbiaceae). In Chhattisgarh the roots of Chirchita are very frequently used to prepare different Herbal Malas to treat common diseases. In case of chronic fever, the traditional healers prepare herbal Mala using white variety of Chirchita roots. The traditional healers collect the roots only on Itwar (i.e. Sunday). They prefer the collection of roots before sunrise. At the time of collection, the traditional healers prefer to wear red clothes and after collection, they wrap the roots with red clothes. They prepare the Herbal Mala using red string. This Mala is either used in neck or tied around the wrist of left hand. Mostly the healers advise the patient to tie the Mala around the wrist. After cure, the healers advise the patients to remove the roots. When I asked the traditional healers about the role of red colored clothes, they informed that red colour increases the medicinal potential of Chirchita roots. Many of them told me that the red cloths, helps the roots to retain its medicinal properties. I personally feel that there is a need of scientific investigation to explain the utility of red cloths and string during the use of Chirchita roots. In case of Sukhandi disease (Marasmus) of children, the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh use the Herbal Mala prepared from Chirchita roots. They collect the roots on Mangalwar (i.e. Tuesday). In place of red string, green coloured string is used to prepare the Herbal Mala. Many healers use Tabiz in place of Herbal mala. The traditional healers told me that alone this Mala is not enough to cure the marasmus. According to them, when they use different herbal combinations in this disease, the Herbal Mala around patients neck, increases the potential of these combinations. The use of Chirchita roots as Herbal Mala is not reported. Chirchita is a common wasteland plant in Chhattisgarh and for the traditional healers and natives, it a valuable medicinal herb. It is one of the important non-wood forest produces also. Every years several tons of dried Chirchita herb is transported from forests to national and international markets. In snake affected areas, the natives use the Herbal Mala prepared from Gumma roots. It is common practice in Chhattisgarh. During rainy days the farmers use this Herbal Mala in order to get protection from venomous snakes common in paddy bunds and fields. The fresh roots are used to prepare the Herbal Mala. The scientific name of Gumma is Leucas aspera (Family : Labiateae). It is a common road side and crop field (Mostly upland) weed in Chhattisgarh. It is also a popular potherb. In Chhattisgarh, the farmers smear the root juice on sole of legs and also put the root piece inside the shoes, during visit to crop fields in order to get protection from venomous snakes. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh use the Herbal Mala also as veterinary medicine. In case of worm infestation, the use of Lasora nt is well described in literatures, but the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh, recommend the Herbal Mala prepared from Lasora roots in order to prevent the attack of mites in cattle. They told me that use of this specially prepared Herbal Mala is helpful in repelling the mites already present in cattle’s bodies. The healers use a single piece of 10-15 cm long roots in order to provide maximum benefit. The scientific name of Lasora is Cordia obliqua (Family : Boraginaceae). The medicinal properties of its bark, leaves and fruits are mentioned in reference literatures but not much has been written on medicinal properties of roots. It is common practice in Chhattisgarh that the natives prepare the Herbal Mala using Bagnakha and Kanghi roots for little children in order to protect them from evil spirits. The scientific name of Bagnakha is Martynia annua (syn. M. Diandra; Family : Martyniaceae) and Kanghi is Abuliton indicum (Family : Malvaceae). Both herbs are found in abundance during rainy season in almost every corner of the state. The Herbal Mala prepared from Punarnava roots is also in use in Chhattisgarh . You can get details about the use of Punarnava roots in my article Traditional medicinal knowledge about common herbs used for the treatment of Peelea or Pelia (Jaundice) in Chhattisgarh, India. As stated earlier, not much has been written on this important aspect (i.e. Herbal Mala) by early researchers and writers. This is good news that the traditional healers and natives are aware of utilities of there Mala and they are still using it to treat common diseases. There is a strong need to study the science behind this. Interactions with the Natives and Traditional Healers of Gulgul Village, Chhattisgarh, India having rich traditional medicinal knowledge about common herbs. Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved The seeds of Shivlingi resemble to the shape of male genitals. It is common belief in Chhattisgarh that use of Shivlingi seeds is beneficial for pregnant woman interested in only male child. For the first time in my life, I have seen the use of Shivlingi at Gulgul village. Gulgul is 80kms far from the capital of Chhattisgarh state. The natives and traditional healers of Gulgul are using this herb to get only male child from centuries. The traditional healers of this village informed me that they have gained this knowledge from their forefathers. According to them , they collect the herb from the dense forests of Sirpur region and by the typical bad smell of herb, one can easily identify Shivlingi herb. The herb is collected at fruiting stage. The traditional healers of Gulgul village advise the pregnant woman to start taking Shivlingi seeds two months after the start of pregnancy. The woman is instructed to take 3-4 seeds daily empty stomach up to one month. The healers warn the woman to not to chew or crush the seeds, just swallow whole seed. The traditional healers from other parts of Chhattisgarh are also aware of its use to get male child. The traditional healer of Rajim region, gives the Shivlingi seeds with gud. The traditional healer of Kanker region suggests his patients to use Shivlingi seeds with the seeds of Bhang (Cannabis sativa). He gives Bhang at morning and Shivlingi seeds at night to the woman. In reference literatures, the medicinal properties of Shivlingi leaves and whole plant are described. According to these literatures, Shivlingi is hot, pungent and alternative. Its use as tonic is also reported. In reference literatures related to botany, I have found this description about Shivlingi herb. It is an annual scandent herb; stem grooved and glabrous; tendrils bifid; Leaves membranous, 10-15 cm long, green and scabrid above, paler and smooth beneath, 5 lobed, deeply cordate base, lobes oblong lanceolate, margins sinuate denticulate; Flowers monoecious, male in fascicles of 3-6 flowers, corolla campanulate, 5-partite, ovate oblong; female flowers solitary , or few or many, corolla as in the male; Fruits baccate, sub sessile, globose, smooth, bluish green, streaked with broad vertical lines.; Seeds yellowish brown, and as described earlier of Shivling shape; Flowering time in Chhattisgarh conditions varies between August to October. I personally feel that there is a need of scientific evaluation of Shivlingi’s medicinal properties. Common Indian Names of Shivlingi (Bryonia lacinosa) Languages/Regions Names 1) Gujarati Shivlingi 2) Hindi Gargumaru, Ishwara-Shivalingi 3) Malyalam Kavodi, Shivalingi 4) Sanskrit Apastambhini, Chandra, Lingaja, Lingini, Shivavalli Both Bathua and Munga are common herbs found in Gulgul village. The traditional healers use both for the treatment of Leucoderma. Bathua (Chenopodium album) is a winter season crop weed. The healers advise the patients suffering from Leucoderma to take fresh juice of Bathua herb empty stomach in order to get quick relief. As Bathua is winter season crop weed, the healers advise the patient, do not loose the opportunity of using the herb for this disease. The Bathua herbs at vegetative stage are preferred. The traditional healers, also advise the patients to apply the aqueous paste of Munga (Moringa oleifera)seeds on white spots of skin. According to them , the internal use of Bathua juice and external use of Munga seeds to gather helps the patients to get quick relief from this awkward looking skin disease. The native of this village told me that the young leaf of Parsa tree (Butea monosperma) is another good remedy to get male child. According to them during period, the woman must eat one Parsa leaf with cow milk in order to get male child. The traditional healers are not agree with this formula. According to them Parsa leaf is effective but not alone. They add some more herbs in this combination and give it to the pregnant woman. They are not ready to disclose the formula publicly . In order to prevent abortion, the traditional healers of Gulgul village use the decoction of Santra (Orange) leaves and the bark of Pipal tree (Ficus religiosa). Some times they add 5-6 gms of bark powder in the decoction of Santra leaves. The patients are advised to take this decoction 3-4 times a day up to specific period. The period is fixed by the traditional healers according to the vitality of the patients. The traditional healers of Gulgul village, use the whole plant of Punarnava and Bhengra as external application in case of cataract (Motiabindu). The fresh juice of these herbs is also recommended to make the eyes strain and disease free. Punarnava (Boerhaavia diffusa) and Bhengra (Eclipta alba) are common wasteland plants in this region. Many healers from different parts of the state, use the roots of Punarnava in place of whole plant. The medicinal properties of Bhengra to cure eye diseases are mentioned in reference literature but not much has been written on medicinal uses of Punarnava for the treatment of eye diseases. For eye pain, the traditional healers use the leaves of Dhikuar (Aloe vera) with Turmeric (Haldi). After removing the gel from leaves, the healers add Turmeric powder in it and after warming it slightly, the patients are advised to keep the Aloe leaf having Turmeric powder on eye lids to get relief. The traditional healers of this village are very popular in the region for the treatment of diabetes. Every Sunday, over 100 patients mostly from nearby cities visit the healers to take herbal combination useful in diabetes. The traditional healers refused to disclose the formula but when I assured them the I will never use this formula to earn even a single penny, they agreed to disclose the formula. According to them, they use one part of Jamun Guthli (Jamun seeds), one part of Sonth (dried Ginger powder) and two parts of Medhashingi herb. After mixing all these three herbs, they filter it through white muslin cloth and after filtration, they prepare small balls (each ball having the size of Ber fruit; Ber - Ziziphus jujuba) using the fresh juice of Dhikuar (Aloe vera). The Patients are advised to take three balls with pure honey in a day. The medicinal uses of Jamum (Syzygium cumini) and Medhasingi (Gymnema sylvestris ) are mentioned in reference literature. I interviewed the patients using this herbal combination. They told me that this is effective combination. Many patients aware of contents prefer to take combination from the traditional healers. According to them , the method of preparation is not as simple as described by the healers. Recently, I have given the combinations prepared by traditional healers and home made preparation, to one of the friends working as biochemist in reputed drug company. During my ethnomedico surveys to different parts of Chhattisgarh, I have noted that the healers of other parts are also aware of this herbal combination but they use these herbs in different ratios. According to them, Gymnema and Syzygium are the most effective herbs in these combinations and other herbs are added to nullify the harmful effects of these herbs. Before describing other details I would like to describe the botany pubescent; Leaves opposite, ovate, elliptic, base rounded or cordate; Flowers in Cymes; Corolla campanulate, yellow, corona of 5 processes; Fruits follicle, lanceolate, usually single; Seeds with thin marginal wing; Flowering time in Chhattisgarh conditions varies between March to May. According to Ayurveda, Gymnema is bitter, acrid, cooling, tonic, anthelmintic, alexiteric and alterative. It is useful in treatment of eye complaints, burning sensation, biliousness, bronchitis, ulcers, asthma, heart diseases, leucoderma, urinary discharges etc. The traditional healers and natives of Gulgul village use many herbs as tonic. During winter, they use the vegetable prepare from bers of Patal Kumhda (Pueraria lobata). This is also used as animal tonic. The traditional healers informed me that they prepare special herbal combination for women after pregnancy and for peoples of old age. They use the seeds of Parsa (Butea monosperma) and add sugar and Til seeds (Sesamum indicum) in equal proportion and give it to the patients up to one week. I have tried this combination and found it very effective. The traditional healers of this village are now planning to leave this social service. The torture and harassment by local authorities, as they are unregistered practitioner, discouraging them to stop this service. The healers informed me that when they use Patal yantra to prepare Ark, the local police take action against them blaming that they are preparing narcotics. Long queue of patients in front of this village clinics is a proof for the effectiveness of their treatment but due to jealously the villagers are planning to take legal action against these healers. This is really surprising and sad. I personally feel that there is a strong need to encourage these healers to continue their social services for the sake of humanity. One day with the Traditional Healer of Bhuthia Village, Chhattisgarh, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Above are photographs which will help to illustrate the points in this article When we got the written complaint from the villagers of Bhuthia against the traditional healer, we, the members of Raipur based nongovernmental organization (NGO), Andh Shradha Nirmulan Samittee (ASNS), decided to visit the village to check the facts behind this complaint. This NGO is working against blind faith and quacks practicing miracle treatments. This organization is working since 6 years in Chhattisgarh and has done a lot of work in the field of awareness. I am associated with this organization as Joint Secretary. In the complaint, the villagers of Bhuthia have written that the healer is cheating the common people and taking high fees for wrong treatment. According them, the healer is specialized in the treatment of Jaundice and every Sunday from 6 to 9 A.M., he performs special bath treatment to remove the ill effects and to cure the Jaundice. On 24th November, 2002, Sunday, we started from Raipur early morning. The village Bhuthia is about 150 kms. far from Raipur and the nearest city of Bhuthia is Saraipali (Dist. Mahasamund). Saraipali is near to Orissa (neighbouring state of Chhattisgarh) border. At 9.00 A.M. We reached to the Bhuthia village and directly Photo 1 Photo 2 Photo 3 Photo 4 Photo 5 Photo 6 Photo 7 Photo 8 entered to Traditional Healer’s home. In front of his home we saw the long line of cars and other vehicles and over 100 patients suffering from Jaundice were waiting for their turn to take special bath to get rid from Jaundice. After getting our introduction, Mr. Pitamber Nand, the traditional healer, agreed to allow as to the place where special bath was in progress The healer instructs the patient suffering from Jaundice to get ready for bath and if possible to remove his clothes. After removal of clothes, he advises the patient to enter into the tank filled with Chuna Pani (Lime CaCO3 water) and to stand straight so that the level of water should be up to his heals. After this , the healer enters in special room having several pictures of Hindu Gods and take permission from these Gods to start the treatment. In the meantime, his assistant arrange pieces of burning coal and put it at some distance from the patient. Suddenly the healer appears uttering mantras. He offers some herbs in burning coal, put his hand on fumes for a while then touches the patients’ body with his palm. After this, his assistant starts empting jars filled with plain water on patient’s head. When water reaches to the contact of lime water, suddenly the white colour changes into deep yellow colour. The traditional healer told me that the deep yellow colour is a clear indication that the patient is suffering from Jaundice. In case of healthy person the colour of lime water remains white. According to the healer, one or two special baths are sufficient to cure the patients. That was unbelievable for us. After this special bath, the healer gives herbal mixtures to patients and advise them to take it regularly till next bath. We observed this treatment continuously up to four hours. The queue was still very long, so we decided to meet the villagers who have complained us against this healer. The two main complainants Mr. Suresh Pradhan and Mr. Rishi Pradhan told us that there is nothing special in this bath. According to them, when the healer enters in the special room in the name of taking permission from Gods, he smear special powder on his hand. The use of burning coal is just a show. In fact, before starting the treatment, the healers ask the patients whether it is first time visit or he has visited last week. On the basis of patient’s answer, the healer decide to smear the powder in hand. The villagers told us that the healer is taking very high fees from the patients. He decides the fees on the basis of social status of patients. The patients coming by bicycles were charged less as compared to the patients coming by cars. According to the villagers, in very short time the healer has became the most rich man in the village. The most important information was the content of special powder used to smear on hand by the healer. The villagers say that it is powdered bark of Aam (Mango; Mangifera indica) tree. In order to confirm this use, they showed practical demonstration among us. Later the villagers informed that the increasing use of Aam tree bark for the treatment, is becoming a curse for the local tree population. We observed over 20 trees that have died due to removal of bark. After confirmation that the healer was cheating the common people, I decided to talk separately in detail to him and to ask why he is cheating the common people? As admirer and promoter of traditional healing practices and traditional healers, this incidence was a shock for me. After treating his last patient, the healer agreed to sit with me for detailed discussion. I informed him about my work, research and feelings to wards traditional system of healing. We shared a lot of information about herbs. From his collection, he showed many rare herb roots useful in many ways. I was surprised by both, his knowledge and also, why he is cheating the patients. He told me that his Guru was from Jabalpur and he spent over 10 years with his Guru and surveyed almost every dense forests of Madhya Pradesh in search of herbs. When I repeated his special bath treatment in front of him, he surrendered, and ready to explain the reasons why he is cheating the common person? Although Chhattisgarh is declared as "Herbal state" but nothing has been done to protect the rights raditional healers. You will be surprised to know that in Chhattisgarh, according to rule, treatment practices the traditional healers are adopting, are crime. And on complaint, the police take strict action against healers and their struggle ends in prison. They are still considered as quacks. The qualified doctors having formal education have the license to treat the patients, in the state. Many institutions engaged in providing Ayurveda education are also active in the state but it is a bitter fact that most of the Ayurvedic practitioners are practicing Allopathy in Chhattisgarh. During my ethnomedico surveys, in different parts of Chhattisgarh, I have noted that the traditional healers are not in good position. In general, they charge no money for the treatment, in this way, they are doing a great social work. Many healers complained me that the local police harass them and ask to give fines (unofficially) if they want to continue the practice. The situations are the same for Mr. Pitamber Nand, the traditional healers of Bhuthia village. He told me that he is practicing herbs from 20 years but the villagers never made any complaint against him , but when he started earning from his knowledge, due to the jealously, many of them are now opposing and blaming me that my method of treatment is wrong. The healer disclosed that he have to pay regular fine to local police in order to continue his practices. He is a father of two married sisters. He is depressed because both of his son-in-laws do nothing for their families, and live with the healer as family member. He told me that he is aware that the special bath is not enough for the treatment of complicated disease Jaundice. In early days, when there was no burden on him, in form of police fines and responsibilities of family, he frequently visit to nearby Sishupal Pahad (Pahad - Hills). Bhuthia village is surrounded by these hills and according to the healer these hills are rich in herbs. But now due to old age, he is unable to visit the forests and hills frequently. He has no faith in his son-in-laws and this is the reason he has yet not disclosed the secret formulas to anyone. According to him, the special bath is nothing but a psychological treatment. The change of colour gives enough courage and generate self confidence in patients that all pathogens have washed away. The actual action was done by the herbs given by the traditional healer. This placebo treatment in form of special bath is essential in this treatment. Due to lack of herbs, the healer now gives herbal mixture to very limited patients. As the visits are not in progress, he have to purchase the herbs from Padampur city and he told him the rates are increasing day by day. When I asked him why he charge high fees from his patients, as most of the healers charge no fees in the state ? He replied besides fines and family burdens there are other reasons. According to him, it is general tendency among patients, that they do not take the drugs seriously, if they are getting it free of cost. For treatment, the qualified doctors charge thousands of rupees and patients still get no relief in most of the case, then what is wrong in charging the nominal fees from his patient He told me that he charges according to social status of patient. His charges varies between 50Rs. To 200Rs. (1 US$ - 48 Rs. Approximately). His Guru has also instructed him to not to charge fees for this treatment, the healer is still agree with his Guru and he told that if any organization or government takes, the responsibilities of him, He is ready to give his services free of cost. Although his special bath is considered as fraud by our members and villagers, the reference literatures support this bath. After coming back to Raipur, when I consulted the reference literatures and talked to the traditional healers of Mudpar and Durg, they confirmed that use of Am tree bark is mentioned even in Ayurveda. They agreed that to some extent it is a psychological treatment but regular bath using Aam tree bark is beneficial for the Jaundice patients. After getting the details regarding contents of herbal mixture used by the traditional healer of Bhuthia village, I feel confident that he is a genuine person. As main ingredient, he is using Bhuiaonla herb in this herbal mixture. The beneficial effects of Bhui aonla (Phyllanthus niruri) have been well studied through systematic researches around the world. He uses over 30 herbs in order to prepare the mixture and according to him, all herbs are easily available in Sishupal hills. I suggested him to start growing this herbs in his own land, in order to get genuine herbs without much effort . I also assured him that I will inform the world community about your problems and I am thankful to Botanical dot com team for providing me the stage to present oice" of traditional healers of Chhattisgarh, India among world community. Mr. Pitamber Nand informed me that he is expert in treatment of many diseases and he frequently uses Devnashini roots for this. When he showed Devnashini roots from his collection, I identified it easily as Bach roots (Acorus calamus). He told that the Sishupal hills are full of Bach but he is unable to visit the hills due to old age. I presented him my latest book on "Aushadhi Phasel Bach ki Vyavsaik Kheti Kaise Kare ? (How to Cultivate commercially, the medicinal crop Bach) and instructed him how to start the cultivation of this herb in paddy fields ? After knowing the facts, we ended our meeting. I disclosed these facts in front of villagers and team members, eagerly waiting outside the healer’s home but unfortunately, they were not ready to under stand the facts, in democracy the majority rules. They decided to warn the healer to stop the practice, and if he still continues then they will start legal action. This is really sad . ter reading my previous articles hopefully you are now well aware of the rich traditional medicinal knowledge and traditional healing practices in Chhattisgarh, India. The problem of Mr. Pitamber Nand is the problem of almost every traditional healer in Chhattisgarh. Only the timely and strong steps, can protect the rights of these healers. The bad behaviour of society with the healers, is discouraging the new generation of healers and they are deciding to change this work. I personally feel that there is a strong need to encourage, give recognition and honour these traditional healers because only thy are the true Bhumi putras (The true sons of mother earth) whom can save they mankind from incurable diseases in future. Medicinal weeds in Kodo millet fields : A source of an additional income for Chhattisgarh farmers Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved ABSTRACT Ethnobotanical study was conducted by the Department of Agronomy, Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur (India) to list out the medicinal weed flora of the Chhattisgarh region and to find out the possibilities of utilizing medicinal weeds in Kodo millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum) fields to provide an additional income to the farmers besides an effective weed control. The study was done in 6 purposively selected districts. From each selected district, a proportionate sample was taken to make the total sample size as 1000 respondents. The weeds were collected through intensive visits and information on potential uses were collected with the help of reference literatures of different medicine systems. The study revealed that out of 42 problematic weeds (belong to more than 16 families) in Kodo millet, 37 weed species possess medicinal properties. The study suggested that there is a tremendous scope of utilizing medicinal weeds in Kodo millet fields to provide an additional income to farmers. INTRODUCTION Weeds compete with crops for moisture, nutrients and light and harbor diseases and insects when present in bunds and wastelands (Oudhia et al., 1999). Weeds are always considered as unwanted plants. In ancient Indian literatures, it is clearly mentioned that every plant on this earth is useful for human beings, animals and also for other plants (Oudhia, 1999). The only need is to identify its potential uses. Many studies conducted at Department of Agronomy, Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur (India) have revealed that weeds, particularly medicinal weeds are not a problem for farmers and they can earn an additional income by selling the uprooted weed parts in national and international drug markets with the help of village level co-operatives (Oudhia and Tripathi, 1998a and 1999a and b, Oudhia et al., 1998). Kodo millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum) is one of the popular crops in the tribal belt of Chhattisgarh (India) (Oudhia and Tripathi, 1998b). In Chhattisgarh, farmers do not emphasize on chemical weed control. They only perform hand weeding operation once at 25-30 days after sowing. Often they go for second hand weeding at 50-55 days after sowing. As the problems of labour scarcity and high wages are increasing in the region, hand weeding is becoming a costly operation. By identifying the medicinal, industrial and allelopathic uses of existing weed flora, a package can be developed for the farmers. By selling the useful weed parts farmers can not only recover the cost of hand weeding and control the weed population efficiently but also can earn additional income. In order to list out the existing weed flora and their medicinal, industrial and allelopathic uses, an Ethnobotanical study was conducted by the Department of Agronomy, Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur (India) during 1996-98. MATERIALS AND METHODS The detailed Ethnobotanical survey was conducted in whole Chhattisgarh region. The study was done in purposively selected districts namely Raipur, Bilaspur. Durg, Rajnandgaon, Bastar and Sarguja. From each selected district, two blocks and from each selected block, random sample of four villages was taken. A proportionate sample of villagers from each selected village was taken to make the total sample size as 1000 respondents. The data were collected with the help of personal interview technique on a well prepared interview schedule. For knowing the medicinal uses of common weeds in Kodo millet fields, the help of reference literatures of Ayurved, Homoeopathy, Yunani, Allopathy and other systems of medicine was taken. The weeds were collected through intensive visits to the targeted villages at the interval of 15 days. Visual observations both on crop fields and wastelands were made. SULTS AND DISCUSSION The survey revealed that out of 42 problematic weeds (belong to more than 16 families) in Kodo millet fields of Chhattisgarh, 37 weeds possess valuable medicinal properties. The medicinal properties of these 37 weeds have been found well documented in reference literatures. The Local name. Scientific name, Family etc. of these medicinal weeds are given in Table 1. The Study also revealed that out of 37 medicinal weeds, the villagers were using more than 16 weeds to treat their health problems. Out of total 42 weeds, 10 weeds were identified as potential weeds that can provide additional income to the farmers. These weeds were Abutilon indicum, Achyranthes aspera, Boerhaavia diffusa, Cyperus sp„ Eclipta alba, Euphorbia hirta, Leucas aspera, Oxalis latifolia, Phyllanthus niruri, Sida cordata (Table-2). The personal communications were made with more than 300 national and international drug dealers revealed that these weeds were having heavy demands in national and international drug markets. During the study it was noted that different graded and processed parts or weeds were having more demand. There is a tremendous scope of generating employment opportunities at village level for rural youths by this medicinal weed business. The study suggested that there is a strong need of (1) Documentation of valuable knowledge about medicinal weeds in Kodo millet fields. (2) Survey of the major crop fields of Chhattisgarh. (3) Identification of villages having higher density of particular medicinal weeds. (4) Establishment of proper linkage between village level co-operative society to national and international drug dealers. (5) Development of grading and processing methods for medicinal weeds according to international standards. These targets can be achieved by the joint efforts government, non-government agencies and local people. Table 1 Medicinal weeds in kodo millet fields of Chhattisgarh Scientific Name Local Name English Name Family Name Remarks 1. Abutilon*indicum Raksi Velvetleaf Malvaceae M,m 2. Achyranthes* aspera Latkana Prickly Chafflower Amaranthaceae M,m 3. Ageratum conyzoides Gandhila Bill Goat weed Compositae M 4. Aeschynomene americana Soli Northern Joint Vetch Leguminoaseae M 5. Boerhavia* diffusa Punernava Spiderling Nyctaginaceae M 6. Borreria hispida Safed phooli - Rubiaceae M 7. Caesulia axilaris Balonda - Compositae M,m 8. Celosia argentea Siliyari Cock's comb Amaranthaceae M,m 9. Cenchrus ciliaris Poonchi Ghas Sand Bur Gramineae M,m 10. Chloris barbata- - Finger grass Gamineae M 11. Commelina Kaua-KainiDayflowerCommelinaceaeM,mJangli JutiWild JuteTiliaceaeM,m benghalensis 12. Corchorus acutangulus 13. Cucumis trigonus Kolhi Kekedi Wild Cucumber Cucurbitaceae M 14. Cynodon dactylon Doobi Bermuda Grass Gramineae M,m 15. Cyperus*sp. Motha Nut Sedge Cyperaceae M,m 16. Dactyloclenium aegypticum Makra Crowfoot Grass Gramineae M 17. Digitaria ciliaris - Crab Grass Gramineae M 18 Echinocloa colonum Sawan Jungle Rice Gramineae M 19 Eclipta*alba Bhengra - Compositae M,m 20 Eleusine indica - Goose Grass Gramineae M 21 Eragrostis cilianensis Chiwra Phool Love Grass Gramineae 22 Euphorbia*hirta Dudhi Spurge Euphorbiaceae M,m 23 Fimbristylis barbata Chuhaka - Cyperaceae M 24 Gomphrena decumbens - - Amaranthaceae 25 Ischaemum rugosum Badore - Gramineae M 26 Kylinga brevifolius Bandar Phool - Cyperaceae M 27 Leucas*aspera Gumma - Labiatae M,m 28 Ludwigia octovalvis Laung Phool Winter Primrose Onagraceae 29 Mimosa pudica Chhui Mui Sensitive Plant Leguminoaseae M 30 Oxalis* latifolia Khatti buti Wood Sorrel Oxalidaceae M,m 31 Parthenium hysterophorus Gajar ghas Congress Weed Compositae M 32 Phyllanthus* niruri Bhuin awla Niruri Euphorbiaceae M,m Physalis minima Chirpoti Ground cherry Solanaceae M,m 34 Paspalidium punctatum - - Gramineae 35 Phaseolus trilobus Mungesa Wild Mung Leguminoseae M,m 36 Saccharum spontaneum Kansi - Gramineae M 37 Scoparia dulcis Mithi patti - Scrophulariaceae M 38 Sida* cordata Bariyara Sida Malvaceae M,m 39 Solanum nigrum Makoi Night Shade Solanaceae M 40 Setaria glauaca - Foxtail Gramineae M 41 Ocimum basilicum Van Tulsa - Labiateae M,m 42 Tridax procumbens - - Compositate M,m Note : M - Weeds having medicinal properties. Weeds in use in Chhattisgarh as medicinal Weeds having demand in national and international drug markets. Table 2 Existing uses and valuable parts of ten potential medicinal weeds in Kodo millet fields of Chhattisgarh Scientific Name Existing Uses Valuable Parts Remarks 1. Abutilon indicum In rheumatism bleeding piles and Seeds N,I fever 2. Boerhavia diffusa Dropsy, Migraine, coryza, cough Roots N,I 3. Cyperus sp. In skin, urinary, digestive and reproductive diseases Dried nuts N,I 4. Eclipta alba In skin and digestive diseases, Hair nourishment Whole plant N,I 5. Euphorbia hirta In respiratory troubles Whole plant N,I 6. Leucas aspera In worms, rheumatism Whole plant N 7. Oxalis latifola In skin troubles Whole plant N 8. Phyllanthus niruri In jaundice Whole plant N 9. Sida cordata In skin troubes Whole plant N 10. Achyranthes aspera As styptic; antivenom; in diseases of digestive system Whole plant N,I Note N - Medicinal weeds having demand in national market Medicinal weeds having demand in international market. Common names of Kodo around the world Languages/Regions/Countries Names Australia Ditch Millet, Hureek Bengal Khododhan, Kodoadhan Bihar Koda, Kodai Canarese Arikel, Haraka Hullu, Harik Srilanka Koda Millet Gujarati Kodra, Kodro, Meya Hindi Koda, Kodaka, Kodava, Koddon Marathi Harik, Kodra, Kodru Sanskrit Kodu ara, Kodrava, Koradusha, Kordrava, Kuddala, Madangvaka, Uddala, Vanakodrava Nigeria Ikbonta tamil Karuvaragu, Varagu, Varaku Telugu Allu, Alu, Arikalu, Aruga Urdu Kodon Uriya Khoddi, Kodus Zulu is Amuyisane rences Oudhia, P. 1999. Medicinal weeds in rice fields of Chhattisgarh (India). International Rice Research Notes., 14 (1): 40. Oudhia, P. and Tripathi, R.S. 1998a. Medicinal weeds of Kharif crops in the Plains of Chhattisgarh. Bharthiya Krishi Anusandhan Patrika. 13(1/2): 33-38. Oudhia, P. and Tripathi, R. S. 1998b. Allelopathic effects of Parthenium hysterophorus L. on kodo, mustard and problematic weeds. In : Proc. First International Conference on Parthenium Management (Vol. II), UAS, Dharwad, India, 6-8 Oct.1997: pp. 136-139. Oudhia, P. and Tripathi, R.S. 1998c. The possibilities of utilization of medicinal weeds to increase the income of the farmers. In : Abstract National Seminar on Medicinal Plant Resources Development, Gandhi Labour Institute, Ahmedabad, India. 4-5 Oct. 1998: p. Oudhia, P. and Tripathi, R.S. 1999a. Medicinal weeds of Durg (Madhya Pradesh) region. In: Proc. National Conference on Health Care and Development of Herbal Medicines, lndira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur. India 29-30 Aug. 1997 : pp. 71-78. Oudhia, P. and Tripathi, R.S. 1999b. Medicinal weeds : A boon for the farmers of Chhattisgarh. In: Abstract VIII Biennial Conference of Indian Society of Weed Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India, 5-7 Feb. 1999 : 152. Oudhia, P., Joshi, B.S. and Kosta, V.K. 1998. The possibilities of preparing Homoeopathic drugs from the obnoxious weeds of Chhattisgarh : Bhartiya Krishi Anusandhan Patrika. 13 (1/2): 53-57. Oudhia, P., Tripathi, R.S., Puri, S. and Chandel, D.S. 1999. Traditional knowledge about medicinal weeds in Chhattisgarh. Vasundhara The Earth. I(I) : 12-15 [Originally Published in Ecol. Env. & Cons. 6(2) : 2000; pp. (171-174)] Traditional Medicinal knowledge about common herbs used as Heart Tonic in Chhattisgarh, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved In Chhattisgarh, the use of medicated wooden glasses in very common among heart patients. For different diseases, the traditional healers recommend different types of medicated wooden glasses. During my ethnomedico surveys in different parts of Chhattisgarh, that these glasses are very popular in Southern and Eastern parts of state. From the herb dealers of Kolkata city, I got information that the medicated wooden glasses of Chhattisgarh are very popular in neighbouring countries like Bangladesh and Myanmar. Many traditional healers prepare these glasses and supply it to the traders at Kolkata city. The traders export these glasses to neighbouring countries after packing it in attractive boxes with details regarding instructions and method of use. In my surveys, I have found that the traditional healers are aware of over 20 types of medicated wooden glasses, prepared from different herbs and used to treat common diseases. In this article, I am describing the medicated wooden glasses prescribed for heart patients in Chhattisgarh. Last year when I showed the carpenter, a medicated wooden glass, I have collected from the traditional healers of Bastar, he informed that this is made up of Koha wood. I requested him to prepare, the same glass using Koha wood. The traditional healers of Bastar, advise the patients suffering from heart disease to use specially prepared wooden glasses. The patients are advised to fill the glass with well water at night and next morning, drink the water (with leachate) in order to get ief from heart troubles. Most of the traditional healers use the glasses in supplement with regular treatment. The traditional healers of Bastar informed me that the leachate from wooden glasses is beneficial for persons of all age group. According to them, it is good heart tonic and its regular use can prevent heart troubles and delays it up to very old age. During my surveys, I have seen different size of glasses. The traditional healer of Kanker region told me that the size of glasses depend upon the severity of trouble. For young persons, he prescribes small glasses whereas the older patients are advised to use bigger glasses. In general the medicated wooden glasses have a capacity to accumulate 250-300 ml. of water. Different traditional healers recommend different doses to their patients. According to the traditional healers one glass is sufficient for whole life. Many healers are not agree with this. They say that one must change the glass in every ten years. The traditional healer of Durg region, gests his patients to use this medicated glasses only during winter months every year. According to him, one should not use it regularly. In the labels of export quality wooden glasses from Chhattisgarh, I have read that ‘Please do not use it after completion of six months.’ The traders told me that they have no base for this recommendation and to promote its use and consumption they have written this caption in labels. When I consulted reference literatures, surprisingly I got no information on medicated wooden glasses useful for heart patients even in Ayurveda. analyzing the observations of surveys, many questions came into my mind, about the standardize doses. Every traditional healer claims that his dose is perfect and his patients are using it from very long time. Most of the traditional healers told that they have gained this knowledge from their forefathers, and they are just following the instructions from generations. I have also interviewed many patients using these wooden glasses. Many of them were satisfied with the efficacy of glasses but some patients complained that regular use of this wooden glasses cause many other problems like decaying of teeth and constipation. The patients getting harmful effects told me that their healers have given them some other herbs to eliminate these harmful effects and they have found it really useful. The discussions with patients clearly indicated that the traditional healers recommending medicated wooden glasses are aware of its harmful effects in certain cases and also they know how to eliminate these harmful effects. Mr. Juniwal from Kolkata, engaged in export of these wooden glasses in name of Yegi Medicated Glasses, informed me that his customers at Bangladesh have never complained about any harmful effects. He told that as it is natural product, so there is no chance of harmful effect. I am not in agreement with him. Mr. Juniwal is now planning to establish his own workshop to manufacture these glasses in bulk. He told me that the process of manufacturing is very simple. Take wood of Koha tree and convert it into glasses with the help of lathe machines. The carpenter to whom I have ordered to prepare glasses from Koha tree, has also prepared the wooden glasses using the same process. When I tested the efficacy of the glass collected from the traditional healer and the carpenter’s glass with the help of Ayurveda experts , we have found the first one several times superior to the second one. This experiment clearly showed me that the manufacturing of es is not as simple as it looks. After knowing this fact, I again started detailed surveys focused on manufacturing process, used by the traditional healers. I have noted that the healers never use the services of carpenter’s to prepare the glasses. The traditional healer of Raipur region told me that he prefers the tree having at least 40-50 years age. The older the tree, the more potential will be the glasses. After the exhaustive surveys, I got some information regarding manufacturing. After cutting the tree, the traditional healers of Bastar, dip the wood piece in medicated solution for two to three days. After these days, wood piece is allowed to dry in shady places. Only after this, it is given the shape of glass. The traditional healer of Dhamtari region, gives his patients the dried powder of herbs and instruct them to add a pinch of this powder in medicated glasses every night before filling the water. I have yet not get the information about the medicated solution in which the healers dip the wood piece and the dried powder of herbs recommended by the traditional healer of Dhamtari region. But I am proud to say that these information are still with the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh and most of the medicated wooden glasses that are in use in the state, are prepared by them. The traders from Kolkata city, have half knowledge (little knowledge is always dangerous) and ignoring this, they are continuously supplying these medicated glasses to neighbouring countries. The Koha trees are very common in Chhattisgarh. Its Sanskrit name is Arjun and scientific name is Terminalia arjuna (Family : Combretaceae). The uses of Koha tree bark in heart trouble are well documented in available literatures. Many traditional healers of Chhattisgarh, recommend their patients to drink the aqueous leachate of Koha tree bark every morning on an empty stomach to get relief from heart troubles. The decoction of bark is also in use. In reference literatures the medicinal uses of bark, leaves and fruits are mentioned in detail, but utility of wood from old trees are not mentioned. According to Ayurveda, Arjun (Koha) as medicine is alexiteric, styptic, tonic, anthelmintic and useful in fractures, ulcers, blood - disorders, intoxication, urinary discharges, biliousness, stangury, heart diseases, anaemia, asthma, excessive perspiration, tumours, leucoderma, false presentation of foetus etc. Before describing the other herbs used as heart tonic in Chhattisgarh, I would like to describe the botany of Koha tree. I have found ference literatures. Koha is a large evergreen tree with a spreading crown and drooping branches, commonly 3m. in girth, but recorded up to 10m; Bark very thick, grey or pinkish -green, smooth, exfoliating in this irregular sheets; stem rarely long and aight, buttressed, sometimes fluted; leaf sub opposite, oblong or elliptic, coriaceous; Flower white, small, in panicled spikes; Flowering time in Chhattisgarh conditions varies between March to July; Fruit ovoid or ovoid-oblong, 5-7 seeded, 2.5-5.5 cm long, with winged angles; seed hard, up to 800 per kilogram, germination time 50-80 days and germination percentage 50 to 60 percent. As the use of Koha medicated glasses is not mentioned in reference literatures, most of the researchers are not aware of these glasses. I personally feel that there is a strong need of scientific evaluation of these glasses to know its efficacy and to standardize the doses. As the fruits and barks are one of the most demanded non-wood produces of Chhattisgarh, due to over exploitation, the number of Koha tree is decreasing in state. Recently the state government has taken a strong step and banned the collection of tree bark, in order to protect the Koha trees, in its natural habitat. As mentioned earlier, the traditional healers are aware of over 20 types of medicated wooden glasses, there are possibilities of establishing small scale industries for commercial scale manufacturing of these highly demanded medicated glasses with the help of governmental bodies. There is a tremendous scope in this field. This step will not only generate employment opportunities for unemployed rural youths but also generate revenue for the state government. Almost all traditional healers specialized in heart troubles, recommend their patients to include pure honey in their routine diet. According to them, pure honey is a good heart tonic. The patients living in urban areas are getting poor quality honey full of impurities. The traditional healers advise these patients to not to use impure honey. The scientists of Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur, have developed many Apiculture practices but due to poor extension the Apiculture is still not popular in the state. In India, many reputed companies sell pure honey in attractive packs. But attractive packs are not the guarantee of good quality. Last year I got an opportunity to visit the Apiculture farm of a reputed company of New Delhi. You will be surprised to know that this company was using the sugarcane molasses chamber for bee-keeping and the honey collected was the result of molasses. I have also seen the systematic Apiculture farm of this company. The guide, off the record, informed that for export, the produce of advanced farm is used whereas the produce from molasses chamber is used for Indian customers. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are aware of this fact. Many healers recommend Honey with Nimbu Pani (Lemon water). They instruct the patients to take honey with lemon water daily morning empty stomach. According to them this is not only a good heart tonic but also good for respiratory troubles and constipation. As Nimbu is not cultivated commercially in the state, the healers advise the heart patients to plant this fruit tree in home gardens in order to get fresh lemon any time. ow I am describing "the poor man’s heart tonic’. Raksi (in Hindi Kanghi) is a common rice weed in Chhattisgarh. The rice farmers are instructed by the weed scientists of the state, to remove this weed as soon as possible in order to save the valuable rice crop. But the farmers are aware of its utility. You will be surprised to know that in many parts of India where it is not common, the herbal drug manufacturers cultivate this so called weed. It is one of the most frequently used herbs in popular combinations. It is in the list of highly demanded non-wood forest produces of Chhattisgarh. In general rice farmers avoid to use agrochemicals to destroy this useful herb. For poor patients, the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh recommend the leaf juice of Raksi with sugar as heart tonic. The leaves collected before flowering are considered best. The traditional healers instruct the patients to use only seven leaves to extract the juice. If leaves are collected from flowering plant, the traditional healers advise the patient to use twelve leaves in place of seven leaves. Common and popular names of Raksi (Abutilon indicum) around the world. Languages/Regions/Countries Names 1) Arabic Deishar, Masht-ul-ghola, Masht-ul-ghoul 2) Bengal Potari 3) Myanmar Bonkhoe, Thanurchok 4) Kanarese Gidutingi, Hettukisu, Hettutti, Kisangi, Srimudre 5) Chinese Kuan Sha Yuan 6) Guam Malbas, Malva, Matbas 7) Gujarati Dabali, Kantaki 8) Hindi Jhampi, Kanghi, Tepari 9) Hongkong Tung K'uci 10) Malyalam Katturam, Katturan, Tutti, Tuvatti, Uram 11) Marathi Akakai, Kansuli, Karondi, Madmi, Mudra 12) Mauritius Mauve du pays 13) Persian Darakhteshanah 14) Philippines Malvas, Malvas de Castilla, Tabing 15) Portuguese Fruta gargontilha, Malwa 16) Sanskrit Atibala, Balya, Balika, Bhuribala, Shitapushpa, Ghanta 17) Sinhalese Anodagaha 18) Sind Khapato, Pilibuti, Sunbul 19) Tamil Nalatutti, Paniyaratutti, Tutti 20)Telugu Adavibenda, Botlabenda, Dudi 21) Urdu Kanghi 22) Uriya Nakochono During my ethnomedico surveys in Durg region, I have noted that natives are also well aware of the medicinal properties of Raksi. Before describing other herbs, I am describing the botany of Raksi. The scientific name of Raksi is Abutilon indicum (Family : Malvaceae). Raksi is an erect hairy herb, up to 3 meters height; Leaves broadly ovate-orbicular, acute or obtuse, 2-7 cm long (long leaves are preferred for preparation of juice), crenate-dentate or undulate; Flowers solitary, axillary; pedicles usually geniculate; Calyx campanulate, in fruit stellately spreading, much shorter than the schizocarp; lobes 3-4 mm long, triangular, hairy; corolla 25- 30 mm across, hairy, yellow or orange-yellow; Petals obovate; Schizocarps globular with a flat or indented apex; Mericarps mucronate, dorsally hairy; seed 2-3mm across, glabrous or hairy. The flowering time in Chhattisgarh conditions vary between July to March. The traditional healers of Bastar region, advise their patients to dip the matured fruit of Imli (Tamarindus) in a cup of water in night and next morning drink the leachate empty stomach in order to make the heart trouble free. This is also ‘poor man’s heart tonic’ as Imli is a very common tree in Bastar region and the natives have not to pay for it. The traditional healer of Mudpar, recommend the use of flowers to his patients as heart tonic . In every home in Chhattisgarh, you will find at least a plant of Jason. Although varieties having different flower colour are available in state but the red flowered variety is most common. The traditional healer prepare a Sharbat from these flowers and give it to the patients as heart tonic. As these flowers are one of the preferred foods of Orange banded blister beetles (Zonabris pustulata), the traditional healer instruct the patients to take special care during collection of flowers. The beetles are very dangerous as it can cause dermatitis and also lethal if eaten accidentally with flowers. The healers prefer only red flowered variety to prepare the Sharbat. The Scientific name of Jason is Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (Family : Malvaceae). In reference literatures, the medicinal properties of Jason are mentioned. According to Ayurveda, buds have a sweet odour and bitter taste and it is cooling, astringent, remove burning of body, urinary discharges, piles, seminal weakness, uterine and vaginal discharges etc. The healer also use the Sharbat prepared from Harshingari flowers. Like Jason, Harshingari is not a common ornamental herb in home gardens. The scientific name of Harshingari is Nyctanthes arbor-tristis (Family : Oleaceae). The traditional healer of Mudpar prefers Jason flowers as compared to Harshingari flowers as heart tonic. In literatures related to different systems of medicine in India, a lot of information is available on herbs used as heart tonic. In my rticle, I have tried to describe some less known and unknown information on this important aspect. As in rural and forest areas of Chhattisgarh, the heart troubles are not as common as in urban areas the traditional healers are not taking keen interest in new research and experiments. My surveys are still in progress and I will write more on this important aspect in my future articles. (Contd.)