Ethnobotanical Approach of Abdominal and Digestive Disorders in Children

Abstract

Man has over time depended on plants for survival, particularly for food and medicinal purposes. Children are more susceptible to viral, bacterial, and fungal infections due to their low immune systems. Respiratory disorders, liver, urinary, and kidney disorders, gastrointestinal problems, dental-related anomalies, ear and nose throat (ENT) diseases, and eye infections are some of the common diseases that occur in children across the world. The present study conducted in Parner Tehsil villages aims to identify and document the medicinal plants traditionally used to manage abdominal and digestive disorders in children by tribal communities like Thakar, Pardhi, and Bhill. More than 45 plant species are used in such disorders. Forty-five plants belonging to twenty-four families were documented along with their medicinal use in treating children's abdominal and digestive diseases e.g. Acorus calamus (AC) Linn. rhizome paste used for abdominal and gastric disorders. Information on various recipes was also documented, including their preparation, parts used, administration, and dosage. There is still the need for researchers to explore this vital information through scientific validation of the claim of the indigenous people.