Abstract

MEDICINAL PLANTS OF TWO FOLK HERBALISTS IN TANGAIL SADAR, BANGLADESH

Sabbir Ahmed Opu, K.M. Istieake Ahmed, Zobayer Ahmed, Maksuda Khaton Sonda, Ahmed Abrar Muttaki, Mohd. Shahidul Islam, Mohammed Rahmatullah*

ABSTRACT

Background. Folk herbalists (FH) are folk medicinal practitioners who practice folk medicine on a part-time basis. The objective of this study was to document the ethnomedicinal practices of two FHs practicing in Tangail Sadar area in Tangail district of the country. Methods. Interviews of the FHs were carried out with the help of a semi-structured questionnaire and the guided field-walk method. Results. FH 1 used 27 plants distributed into 24 families in his formulations. FH 2 used 26 plants distributed into 18 families in his formulations. FH 1 treated gastrointestinal disorders, pain, heart disorders, kidney and gall bladder stones, helminthiasis, sexual problems, cuts and wounds, skin disorders, snake or poisonous insect bite, and rheumatism. FH 2 treated respiratory tract disorders, gastrointestinal disorders, physical weakness, pain, sexual problems, helminthiasis, diabetes, jaundice, hypertension, and skin disorders. Conclusion. The study suggests that not all FHs treat the same diseases or use the same formulations of medicinal plants. As a result, to obtain a comprehensive view of the treatment methods of FHs, more documentation is necessary of their treatment methods.

Keywords: Ethnomedicine, folk herbalist, Tangail, Bangladesh