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The Ethnobotanical Knowledge of Tribal Communities in Kerala: A Comprehensive Review

Submitted:

30 March 2024

Posted:

01 April 2024

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Abstract
The review addresses a critical research gap in ethnobotanical knowledge within Kerala's tribal communities. A scarcity of studies hampers our understanding of their traditional practices, risking cultural erosion and knowledge loss. Synthesizing existing documentation, it aims to provide a comprehensive overview, emphasizing the urgent need for further research to impact sustainable resource management, biodiversity conservation, and tribal empowerment.
Keywords: 
tribes
;  
medicinal
;  
cultural
;  
ethnobotany
;  
indigenous knowledge
Subject: 
Biology and Life Sciences  -   Plant Sciences

Introduction

Human fascination with plants originated from the fundamental need for sustenance and shelter. As our ancestors led nomadic lives, the quest for remedies within the plant kingdom became imperative to address injuries and ailments (Remesh et al., 2016). The Rig Veda attests those ancient humans discerned edible plants from toxic ones by keenly observing the behaviours of animals (Manilal, 1989). The indigenous communities possess a profound understanding of medicinal plants that has evolved over generations through courageous experimentation using trial and error methods (Sahai, 2003). This reservoir of knowledge has been transmitted orally without relying on written documentation and continues to be preserved within these communities (Perumalsamy and Ignacimuthu, 2000). Indigenous groups harbour distinctive cultural and religious practices, dietary habits and an extensive repository of traditional medicinal knowledge (Anuradha et al., 1986). The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes 21,000 plant species globally for their medicinal properties. In India alone, around 2,500 plant species are utilized for medicinal purposes by traditional healers (Ayyanar and Ignacimuthu, 2009). The invaluable traditional knowledge encompassing plant usage within indigenous cultures not only contributes to the conservation of cultural traditions but also proves instrumental in community healthcare and future drug development (Gazzaw et al., 2005).

Materials and Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted using Google Scholar with the keywords ‘ethnobotany,’ ‘knowledge,’ ‘tribes,’ and ‘Kerala.’ A total of 15 scientific papers were identified, focusing exclusively on the ethnobotanical knowledge of tribal communities in Kerala. To ensure relevance, only studies specific to Kerala and tribal populations were included. 21 distinct tribal groups were identified from the selected studies, including Kattunaikkar, Paniyar, Kurumar, Eravallans, Irulas, Kadar, Kurumbar, Malamalasaras, Malasars, Mudugars, Muthuvans, Malamuthans, Kani, Kurichyar, Mullu Kuruma, Koraga, Arnatans, Manan, Malaiaraian and Ooralys. Rigorous cross-referencing and verification processes, prioritizing information from established sources, bolstered the reliability of our findings. This synthesis aimed to provide a concise overview of ethnobotanical practices deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of Kerala's tribal communities. Despite acknowledging limitations due to scarce scientific studies, the imperative need for additional research was emphasized, unveiling the traditional healing practices among Kerala's diverse tribal groups.

Results

Systematic data extraction yielded a comprehensive inventory, encompassing botanical and vernacular names, useful parts, preparation methods, documented therapeutic uses, and the tribes utilizing them. This information, now presented in Table 1, includes 54 medicinal plants.
In the ethnobotanical context of Kerala's tribal communities, a pie chart illustrates the distribution of plant parts usage. Notably, leaves dominate at 32%, emphasizing their substantial role in traditional knowledge. Whole plants (9%), bark (5%), roots (5%), and seeds (4%) contribute significantly, showcasing ethnobotanical diversity. Stems (3%), tubers (2%), rhizomes (2%), flowers (2%), and fruits (4%) represent varied botanical resources. The utilization of latex (1%) and corms (1%) underscores the holistic reliance on diverse plant parts in the cultural and medicinal practices of these tribes.
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Figure 1.
Figure 1.
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In the ethnobotanical review, an analysis of plant habits across 54 instances revealed distinct patterns. Herbs emerged prominently, constituting 23 occurrences and indicating their prevalence in local ethnobotanical knowledge. Shrubbery and trees exhibited equal representation, each observed 10 times, reflecting a balanced presence. Climbing plants were documented 8 times, while creepers, the least frequent habit, contributed to diversity with 3 instances. This examination provides insights into the varied plant habits, emphasizing the dominance of herbs and contributing to a nuanced understanding of ecological and functional roles in the studied ethnobotanical context.
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Figure 2.
Figure 2.
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Discussion

The review underscores a significant research gap in understanding the ethnobotanical knowledge of Kerala's tribal communities, emphasizing the dearth of studies on traditional practices vital for cultural preservation and community healthcare. The therapeutic purposes highlight the relevance of indigenous knowledge in addressing contemporary health challenges. The oral tradition's continuity suggests a deep-rooted connection between tribes and their environment, emphasizing the need for both cultural conservation and scientific research (Anuradha et al., 1986). The ethnobotanical knowledge of tribal communities in Kerala necessitates exploring legal aspects. The intricate relationship between indigenous communities and their natural surroundings raises concerns about intellectual property rights (IPR), access and benefit-sharing (ABS), protection against biopiracy and safeguarding traditional knowledge. Indigenous communities' medicinal plant knowledge represents a collective heritage developed over generations, but existing legal frameworks may inadequately protect against exploitation. Unauthorized commercial use, especially by external entities, poses a significant concern, underscoring the need for legal mechanisms acknowledging and safeguarding the intellectual property rights of indigenous communities.

References

  1. Ajesh, T. P., Naseef, S. A., and Kumuthakalavalli, R, Ethnobotanical documentation of wild edible fruits used by Muthuvan tribes of Idukki, Kerala-India (2012), 479-487.
  2. Anjana, P. R., and Paulsamy, S, Evaluation Of Ethnobotanical Plants Used By The Malamuthans Tribal Community In The Medappara Forest, Western Ghats Of Kerala (2016),17-44.
  3. Anuradha U, Kumbhojkar M.S., Vartak,V.D, Observations in wild plants used in folk medicine in the rural areas of the Kolhapur district (1986),119-121.
  4. Ayyanar, M., & Ignacimuthu, S, Herbal medicines for wound healing among tribal people in Southern India: Ethnobotanical and Scientific evidences (2009), 29-42.
  5. Gazzaw, L.R., Pavia, R.F. and Albuquerque, P, Knowledge and use of medicinal plants by local specialists in a region of Atlantic forest in state of Perumambuco (North Eastern Brazil) (2005), 9 – 12.
  6. Manilal, K. S, Linkages of ethnobotany with other sciences and disciplines (1989), 15-24.
  7. Narayanan, M. R., Anilkumar, N., Balakrishnan, V., Sivadasan, M., Alfarhan, H. A., and Alatar, A. A, Wild edible plants used by the Kattunaikka, Paniya and Kuruma tribes of Wayanad District, Kerala, India) (2011), 3520-3529.
  8. Pramod, C., Sivadasan, M., and Anil Kumar, N, Ethnobotany of religious and supernatural beliefs of Kurichya of Wayanad District, Kerala, India (2003), 11-19.
  9. Purushothaman, T., & Mol, K. I, Ethnobotanical medicines used by the Kani and Kurichiyar tribal communities of Kerala (2020), 191-199.
  10. Rajith, N. P., and Mohanan, N, Ethnobotanical studies of Koraga tribal community of Kasaragod district (2013), 1(1).
  11. Remesh, M., Manilal, K. S., and Muktesh Kumar, M. S, Ethnobotanical aspects of trees of Palakkad District, Kerala, India (2016), 32-51.
  12. Sahai, S., Importance of Indigenous Knowledge (2003), 2(1): 11.
  13. Samy, R. P., and Ignacimuthu, S, Antibacterial activity of some folklore medicinal plants used by tribals in Western Ghats of India (2000), 63-71.
  14. Sheeba, C. V., Cheruvathur, M. K., and Cheruvathur, S. M, Ethno medicinal practices of tribes of Muthanga, Wayanad district of Kerala, India (2020), 196-206.
  15. Silja, V. P., Varma, K. S., and Mohanan, K. V, Ethnomedicinal plant knowledge of the Mullu kuruma tribe of Wayanad district, Kerala (2008).
  16. Sudhadevi, P. K. Ethnobotany of medicinal plants used by tribes of Kerala. Diss. Department of Pomology and Floriculture, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 1992.
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  18. Venkatesan, K., Murugeswaran, R., Alam, M., Meena, R. P., Kumar, P., & Aslam, M, Quantitative Ethnobotany of Medicinal Plants Used by Indigenous Community in the Munnar Forest Division, Kerala, India (2021), 21-41.
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Table 1.
S.no. Botanical name Local name Parts Therapeutic uses Tribes
1. Abrus precatorius Kunnikkuru Leaf Leaves are boiled with coconut oil and massaged in the scalp to reduce hair loss Kuruma
2. Adenia hondala Karimuthuk Tuber Eating boiled tuber reduces hernia Kuruma
3. Justicia adhatoda Adalodakam Leaf Dried leaves powder for cough Kattunaikkar
4. Zingiber officinale Inji Rhizome Rhizome mixed with water and taken internally to cure ashtma Kattunaikkar, Paniya
5. Ageratum conyzoides Appa Leaf The leaf paste is applied to heal external wounds Kuruma, Kattunaikar, Paniya
6. Amorphophallus
paeoniifolius 		Kattuchena Corm Dried corm is mixed with curd and taken internally to cure jaundice Kattunaikar
7. Briedelia
scandens 		Nendravalli Bark, Leaf The juice from the bark is taken internally to heal the abdominal ache. The juice of the tender leaves is used to prepare medicine for eczema, scabies, and wound Kattunaikkar
8. Cymbopogon flexuosus Chayappullu Whole Plant Decoction is prepared and taken 10ml trice to cure fever Koraga
9. Adhatoda vasica Adalodakam Leaves Fresh leaves roasted with pepper and cumin to relieve cough Koraga
10. Aegle marmelos Bilwapathram Leaves Fresh leaves for diabetics and vomiting Koraga
11. Aloe vera Kumari Leaves Leaf juice is mixed with cow milk taken twice to cure diarrhea Koraga
12. Anacardium occidentale Kasumavu Seed, Stem bark Oral ulcers, prevent bleeding through pus, relief from crack foot Koraga
13. Cocculus hirsutus Pathalagaruda Root Snake poison Koraga
14. Maranta arundinacea Koovai Rhizome Dried powder taken with sugar for osteoporosis Koraga
15. Naravelia zeylanica Soodravalli Tender leaves Drops in nose to treat migraine Koraga
16. Scoparia dulcis Kallurukki Whole plant Decoction mixed with cow milk and taken in empty stomach to cure urinary calculi Koraga
17. Tamarindus indica Puli Seeds To treat urinary calculi Koraga
18. Azadirachta indica Arya veppu Leaf, seeds Chicken pox Mullu Kuruma
19. Boerhavia diffusa Thazhuthama Leaf Jaundice, anemia Mullu kuruma
20. Annona squamosa Aatha Leaf, fruit Inflammation, tuberculosis Mullu kuruma
21. Bacopa monnieri Brahmi Whole plant Ashtma and epilepsy Mullu kuruma
22. Bombax ceiba Ilavu Leaf Snake poison Mullu kuruma
23. Nelumbo nucifera Thamara Flower Dried flower powder is mixed with ghee for piles Mullu kuruma
24. Vitex altissimia Mayila Bark Rheumatic swellings, chest pain Malamalasar
25. Nicotiana tabacum Pokala Leaves Toothache Malamalsar
26. Ocimum americanum Kattuthulasi Leaves Insect bite Malamalsar
27. Butea monosperma Chamatha Bark, leaves Diarrhea, cold and cough, ulcers Malamalsar
28. Cassia tora Thakara Leaves Skin disease, ring worms, cuts and wounds Malamalsar
29. Clitoria ternatea - Roots Antidote for poisonous bites Arnatans
30. Cymbopogon travancorensis - Leaves Against pains Arnatans
31. Plantago erosa - Leaves Treatment of varicose veins Arnatans
32. Toddalia asiatica - Leaves Cough and cold in children Arnatans
33. Viscum articulatum - Whole plant Cuts and wounds Arnatans
34. Bauhinia purpurea - Seeds, leaf Flower juice good for health Arnatans
35. Biophytum sensitivum Nilapushpam Leaf Equal
part of leaf and coconut oil together and externally applied on inflammation		 Mudhuvan, Mannan, Malaiaraian and Ooralys
36. Calotropis gigantean Erukan Leaf, Latex Leaf smoke inhaled for Asthma and Latex externally applied on wounds Mudhuvan, Mannan, Malaiaraian and Ooralys
37. Catharanthus
roseus 		Nithiyakalyani Leaf Intestinal ulcers, wounds Mudhuvan, Mannan, Malaiaraian and Ooralys
38. Coccinia
grandis 		Kovalam Fruit Diabetics Mudhuvan, Mannan, Malaiaraian and Ooralys
39. Costus
speciosus 		Kostum Leaf Treated for menstrual disorders Mudhuvan, Mannan, Malaiaraian and Ooralys
40. Cuscuta
reflexa 		Ottuchedi Whole plant Jaundice Mudhuvan, Mannan, Malaiaraian and Ooralys
41. Curculigo orchioides Nilappana Tuber Asthma, diabetics Kani and Kurichiyar
42. Musa paradisiaca Vazha Juice extracted of leaf sheath First aid for snake bite Kani and Kurichiyar
43. Emilia sonchifolia Mutal cheviyan Whole plant Wound healing and chest pain Kani and Kurichiyar
44. Acacia nilotica Karivelam Flowers Cuts and wounds Kani and Kurichiyar
45. Alstonia venenata - Bark, fruit Snake antivenom, fruit used as skin diseases, leprosy, cobra and other venomous bites, epilepsy, fatigue, fever, syphilis, insanity, helminthiasis as remedy for impure blood. Malamuthans
46. Alternanthera brasiliana - Leaves Cough, diarrhea, inflammation, wounds Malamuthans
47. Antidesma montanum - Leaves, fruits antidote to the sting of cobra. Malamuthans
48. Aristolochia acuminata - Root, leaves To treat malaria, typhus fever, small pox and pneumonia. Malamuthans
49. Begonia malabarica
 - Leaves Treatment of respiratory infections, diarrhoea, blood cancer and skin diseases Malamuthans
50. Mussaenda frondosa Vellilam Leaves, stem Hair wash Paniya
51. Watakaka
volubilis
 kaimavalli Whole plant Urinary trouble Kattunaikar,
Paniya
52. Leucas
aspera 		Thumba Whole plant Gas trouble Kattunaikar, Paniya
53. Achyranthes
aspera 		Kadalady Leaves, stem, root Toothache Kuruma
54. Vernonia
cinerea 		Poovamkurunnel Whole plant Headache and joint pain Kuruma
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