Ethnoentomological practices by tribes and rurals of Satpura plateau of Madhya Pradesh, India

Abstract

This paper focuses on the use of insects and their products in traditional healing practices and in food by the rural and tribes of Satpura plateau, India. Ethnoentomological study was carried out from June 2017 to December 2018 in tribal areas of Satpura plateau. Data was collected using questionnaires, structured interview, group discussion with vaidyas, farmers, aged tribals and village heads. Ten different species of insects are used in curing 16 ailments such as pneumonia, fever, gastritis, piles, healing of wounds, to cure weakness, liver disorder, dog bite, hydrophobia, snakebite and various diseases in children. Tribals include mashed up live ants of Oecophylla smaragdina as food in their diet as per availability.