Studies on ethno medicinal aspects and zoo therapeutic knowledge of Tai- Ahom people of Upper Brahmaputra Valley

Abstract

Assam is a part of Eastern Himalayan region and is endowed with rich biodiversity. The Upper Brahmaputra Valley is a homeland of various tribes and they are enriched with own tradition. The study of the use of the faunal resources in various purposes of ethnic people is considered as ethno zoology. Ethno zoological or traditional knowledge of the community includes edible, medicinal, ceremonial, ritual activities since ancient times. The knowledge is inherited from generation to generation through secret manuscripts or orally. Among the indigenous communities Tai-Ahom people utilized the faunal resources for treatment of various ailments. These people used about 8 species of non –chordates and 13 species of chordates as ethno-medicine. The present paper attempts to highlight the identification of animal resources used in health –care practices by the Tai-Ahom people.