Traditional medicinal knowledge about common herbs and herb formulations used in treatment of Ear related troubles in Chhattisgarh, India : The results of recent ethnobotanical surveys

Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia
© 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved

The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh plains use the decoction of Babool bark (Acacia nilotica) internally in treatment of Otitis. The traditional healers of Jashpur region use the aqueous extract of Kela (Banana) leaves for this purpose. Through recent ethnobotanical surveys in different parts of Chhattisgarh, India. I have collected information on many such traditional uses. I have already written a lot on this aspect in my previous articles. This article is a supplement to previous articles. The healers of Khair (Acacia catechu) tree rich areas of Chhattisgarh use the Kattha obtained from this tree internally for this purpose. The fine powder of Kattha is mixed with lukewarm water and applied inside the affected ears. The traditional healers of Mungeli region of Chhattisgarh use the dried flowers of Munga (Moringa oleifera) in treatment. The flowers are powdered and this powder is applied inside the ears, in case of Otitis. The healers of Tilda region use the powdered bark of Indrajau (Wrightia tinctoria) for the same purpose, internally. Indrajau is a common medicinal tree in Chhattisgarh.

The use of Mehndi leaf extract is popular in almost all parts of Chhattisgarh. The extract is applied inside the ears. With the help of other herbs, the healers also prepare herbal cream, that is used in same manner. Mehndi (Lawsonia alba) is a well known herb in Chhattisgarh. Although Guggul is not native to Chhattisgarh but the traditional healers are aware of the use of its gum – resin in treatment. The gum-resin in put on fire and patients are advised to expose the affected ear in the fumes coming out. The scientific name of Guggal is Commiphora wightii (Syn. C. mukul syn. C. roxburghii syn. Balsamodendron wightii). Guggul is a small tree distributed in dry areas of Rajasthan , Gujarat, Vidharbha and Karnataka. Its fragrant gum – resin, known as Indian myrrh or gum-guggul, in trade is obtained from bark. In Chhattisgarh, many herb growers have started its trial cultivation. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are dependent on local herb shops for this herb. The traditional healers of the state also use the dried powdered bark of Lodh (Symplocos racemosa) internally in treatment. In treatment of Earache, the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh use many herbs both internally and externally. The natives are also aware of many herbal remedies. Among the natives, the use of Fudhar (Calotropis gigantea) leaves is very popular. They select to matured leaves of Fudhar and with the help of cow ghee, fry it slightly. The juice of the slightly fired leaves are applied insides the painful ears at treatment. In case of complication, they take the services of healers. During summer season, the natives use the Maur (inflorescence) of Aam (Mangifera indica) in treatment of earache. The maur is dried and converted into powder. The oil mixed with this powder is applied internally. Its off-season use is also common among them. The natives also use the Lason based oil in treatment. The Lason (Garlic) cloves are boiled in base oil and when all watery contents evaporate, the oil is stored for future use. In case of earache, few drops of this herbal oil are applied inside the painful ears. The above mentioned traditional uses are still popular among the natives and healers. This is the reason, they do not consider these diseases very problematic. During the surveys I have noted that the young generation is also using these herbs with faith. This is positive sign.

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