Ethnomedical practices of rural and tribal populations of India with special reference to the mother and childcare

Resurgence of public interest in the ethnomedical practices in both the developing and developed countries is increasing. As a result, the trade of herbal products in the national and international market is also growing. The rich biodiversity and associated knowledge system particularly in Asia are well known. Over 8,000 wild plant species with about 1,75,000 specific preparations are known to the tribal communities alone. Native food as a medicine particularly during the pregnancy and child raring are noteworthy. The finer aspects of native food are now incorporated in the novel designs of food and nutrition. Homestead garden and the kitchen are connected with the food and ecosystem based sustainable living. The loss of local traditions and associated knowledge system (Ethnomedicine) is resulting in poor health of mother and child especially among the rural poor. Recognition of the native healers and the time tested ethnomedical practices are therefore important in mother and childcare even in modern times.