Ethnomedicine used for treating cuts and wounds by the tribes of Attappady, Kerala.

Abstract

The study has been carried out in Attappady, Kerala. There are 3 tribes among which Irular is the dominant in distribution and population. The cuts and wounds are very common in their daily life because of their life activities in inhospitable area. In this survey, 24 ethnomedicines by 26 plants are identified which has been employed by the tribal community for treating cuts and wounds externally. Though cuts and wounds are common, the knowledge and skill for immediate treatment for proper and fast healing is essential for every member of the tribes. Requirement of immediate treatment with easily available medicinal plants makes much more diversity in wound healing medicinal plants. The plants have been enumerated with Botanical names followed by family name, local name, Habit, plant part used and mode of application.