Situational analysis of the use of indigenous knowledge for therapeutic purposes in two rural areas in India and South Africa

International Conference and Exhibition on Traditional & Alternative Medicine

December 09-11, 2013 Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, Hyderabad, India

Myra Taylor

Accepted Abstracts: Altern Integ Med

Abstract :

India and South Africa are two developing countries both with a rich history regarding the use of indigenous knowledge (IK) for therapeutic purposes. This information needs to be preserved by intergenerational transfer. Purpose: Our study is aimed to investigate household use of IK to address the health needs of the household members and the use of plants for therapeutic purposes. Methods: Cross sectional study using mixed methods. The study areas were in India -4 villages in West Bengal, and in South Africa - the rural area of Vulamehlo, Ugu District, KwaZulu-Natal. Focus group discussions were held with community leaders, healers, service providers and community groups to explore their perceptions about indigenous knowledge for therapeutic purposes in both countries. This was followed by a survey using a structured questionnaire (translated into the local language) to investigate the use of indigenous remedies and the source of this information. The data were triangulated and similarities and differences in the two countries were investigated. Results: In each country between 10-12 focus group discussions were held with a range of respondents. The household survey included 70 in-depth interviews. Respondents explained about the types of disorders/disease conditions that could be treated by indigenous practices, and described the use of the same plant prepared in the same way for different disorders, and also the use of the same plant, but using different preparations depending on the disorder. In both countries there were gender differences in the responses. Further youth in both countries were less interested in the use of traditional remedies. Discussion: In both countries IK was a rich source of information offering scope for improving health through using local resources. The strength of IK has been the transfer of this information and for this to continue inculcating awareness of the value of IK is necessary. Conclusion: Working together in India and South Africa has emphasized the similarities in these two developing countries and that sharing information and ideas can assist in raising the profile of this important source of knowledge.