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- ISSN: 2456-8678
Dr. M. Sundaramari , Dr. R. Priyanka , Dr. Simi Asharaf , Dr. S. Rajaguru
International Journal of Rural Development, Environment and Health Research(IJREH), Vol-10,Issue-3, July - September 2026, Pages 27-31, 10.22161/ijreh.10.3.3
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Article Info: Received: 28 Jul 2026; Received in revised form: 23 Aug 2026; Accepted: 28 Aug 2026; Available online: 02 Sep 2026
Ethnomedicinal practices (EMPs) play a vital role in the primary healthcare systems of tribal communities, particularly in remote regions where access to modern medical facilities is limited. The present study was conducted in the Idukki district of Kerala to document, evaluate, and analyze EMPs used by tribal farmers for the management of anorexia and psychic disorders. The research was carried out in three phases: documentation of practices among nine tribal groups, scientific assessment of selected EMPs through expert evaluation, and analysis of adoption and perceived effectiveness among 452 tribal farmers. A total of nine EMPs involving thirteen medicinal plant species were identified. Scientific rationality assessment revealed that eight practices were rational, supported by the presence of bioactive phytochemicals such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and glycosides, which possess neuroprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Adoption analysis indicated that all EMPs were practiced by more than 70% of respondents, reflecting their widespread acceptance. Furthermore, all practices were perceived as effective, with several showing high effectiveness indices alongside strong scientific properties. The findings highlight a significant alignment between traditional knowledge and scientific evidence, underscoring the potential of EMPs as accessible and sustainable healthcare solutions. The study emphasizes the need for further pharmacological validation and integration of effective traditional practices into formal healthcare systems while preserving indigenous knowledge.
