Ancient Remedies: Exploring the Traditional Medicine Systems of Northeast Indian Tribe

Sanjeev Kumar Ningombam(1) and Rituparna Hazarika(2)

1. Centre Head, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Centre for Policy Research and Analysis, Indian Institute of Management Shillong
2. Research Associate, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Centre for Policy Research and Analysis, Indian Institute of Management Shillong

Abstract:

This paper seeks to explore the traditional medicine systems practiced by indigenous people and community of Northeast India, focusing on their ancient remedies and medicinal practices. Northeast India is known for its rich biodiversity and cultural diversity, which have shaped unique healthcare traditions among various indigenous communities. The study examines the medicinal knowledge and practices of tribes such as the Khasi, Garo, Naga, and Mizo, highlighting their use of local medicinal plants, traditional healing methods, and cultural beliefs related to health and wellness. Drawing on secondary data from findings of ethnobotanical surveys, interviews with traditional healers, and literature reviews, the research investigates the therapeutic properties of indigenous plants, their preparation methods, and the role of traditional healers within their communities. Additionally, the paper discusses the challenges faced by these traditional medicine systems, including threats from modernization, habitat loss, and the need for sustainable conservation strategies. Ultimately, this study contributes to the documentation and preservation of Northeast India’s traditional medicine heritage while advocating for its integration into modern healthcare systems for improved healthcare delivery and cultural sustainability. The paper also highlights major initiatives and policy interventions made by the government of India in promoting traditional medicine in the region and the country as a whole. 
Keywords: Traditional medicine, Northeast India, Indigenous, Tribes, Policy

Full Text:

Ancient Remedies: Exploring the Traditional Medicine Systems of Northeast Indian Tribe

References:
  1. A. Ghobadi, M. D. (2023). Response to: Brewed chicory leaf consumption has unexpected side effects along beneficial effects on liver enzymes in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease patients. Journal of Herbal Medicine. dhttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.hermed.2023.100722
  2. Albert L. Sajem, K. G. (2010). Ethnobotanical investigations among the Lushai tribes in North Cachar Hills district of Assam, Northeast India. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, p.108-113.
  3. B. Dutta, P. D. (2005). Potential of ethnobotanical studies in North East India: An overview.
  4. Bordoloi, C. K. (2023). Herbal Medicine Used for Wound Healing by the Tribes of the North Eastern States of India: A Comprehensive Review. Journal of Herbal Medicine. doi:10.1016/j.hermed.2023.100697
  5. Chakravarty, S., Suresh, C., Puri, A., & Shukla , G. (2012). North East India, the Geographical Gateway of India's Phytodiversity. Indian Forester, p.702-709.
  6. Das Amar Jyoti, K. R. (2013). ETHNO MEDICINAL STUDY OF THREATENED PLANTS OF SONITPUR DISTRICT IN ASSAM, NORTH EAST INDIA.
  7. DC, L. (2022). Traditional knowledge practices of North East India for sustainable agriculture. Agricultural and Food Sciences, Environmental Science.
  8. Delhi, P. N. (2020). Steps taken by the Government to Promote the Indian System of Medicines. PIB New Delhi.
  9. Goswami, V. (2013). Enigma of Mayong: From Mystery to Healing Art Form . Northeast Review .
  10. K. Kimbrough, C. A. (1991). Traditional Indian Medicine: Spiritual Healing Process for All People. Journal of Holistic Nursing, p.15-19. doi:10.1177/089801019100900104
  11. Mittermeier. (2020). Indo-Burma Biodiveristy Hotspot 2020 Update. Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund.
  12. Payyappallimana, U. (2010). Role of Traditional Medicine in Primary Health Care: An Overview of Perspectives and Changes. Yokohama Journal of Social Sciences Vol. 14, No. 6, p.723-743.
  13. R. Chakrabortya, B. D. (2012). North-East India an Ethnic Storehouse of Unexplored Medicinal Plants. Journal of Natural Product and Plant Resources, 143-152.
  14. Ramashankar, S. (2015). Traditional Healing Practices in North East India. Indian Journal of History of Science, 50.2 p.324-332, 324-332.
  15. Ranjay Singh, J. P. (2010). Traditional knowledge and biocultural diversity: learning from tribal communities for sustainable development in northeast India. Journal of Environmental Planning and Management. doi:10.1080/09640561003722343
  16. Satayu Devi, R. S. (2022). Northeast India: A treasury of medicinal plants. emergent Life Sciences Research, p. 5-21. doi:https://doi.org/10.31783/elsr.2022.810521
  17. Sen, S., & Chakraborty, R. (2015). Towards the Integration and Advancement of Herbal Medicine: A Focus on Traditional Indian Medicine . Biologics Targets and Therapy, p.33-44.
  18. Shankar, R., Lavekar, G. S., Deb, S., & Sharma, B. K. (2012). Traditional Healing Practice and Folk Medicines used by Mishing community of North East India. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, p. 124-129.
  19. Walker, B. (1968). Hindu World: An Encyclopedic Survey of Hinduism. In Two Volumes. Volume II M-Z. Routledge Library Editions .