Herbal way to defeat the powerful enemies: Traditional knowledge in Chhattisgarh, India

Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia
© 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved

Although it seems unbelievable but in many parts of Chhattisgarh, particularly in tribal belts, the natives use different herbs with belief that these uses protect themselves from the powerful enemies. As the level of modernisation is increasing in big cities of Chhattisgarh, now educated natives are also showing interest in this traditional knowledge. As a student of science, it is very difficult for me to write on this aspect that how the use of herbs can defeat any enemy.

The herbs are used in many ways for this purpose. The natives prepare Herbal Mala, Lockets, or keep specific parts with them. Due to difference in opinions, the disputes are common in this part of the world. To nullify the enemy's power, many traditional healers also suggest specific herbs. I always ask such healers only one question that as this knowledge is popular, what will happen if the enemy will also adopt or keep the same herb ? In general, the healers take this question lightly by saying they disclose their secrets to the patients only, not to their enemies. When I try to analyse the reason behind this traditional belief, I concluded that there must be some positive effects of herbs on body when used in name to defeat the enemy. I am searching exact scientific explanation for these uses. In present article, I am describing some interesting related information, I have noted during by ethnobotanical surveys in Chhattisgarh. The roots of ornamental herb Chameli are used most frequently for this purpose. The natives of Chhattisgarh Plains, prepare a special Herbal Mala using the root pieces of Chameli and wear it in times of trouble. It is common belief that the presence of Mala during tension period around the neck provides protection from enemies.

How? According to them, its presence make the mind and body enough strong to face any harsh situations. The users feel confidence while meeting with enemies. Whether it nullifies the power of enemies? Their answer is no. For that you have to keep the roots in side the mouth. This will make the enemies wordless. In Southern parts of Chhattisgarh, the natives use Herbal Locket having single root piece instead of Herbal Mala, for same purpose. You can observe the herbal lockets available for sell in local markets. The scientific name of Chameli is Jasminum grandiflorum . This herb is well known for its sweet scented flowers. I searched the reference literatures, to find out the medicinal properties of its roots. According to Ayurveda, the root is purgative, expectorant, soporific, in toxicating and cures headache, biliousness, paralysis, rheumatism etc. During intense interactions with the senior traditional healers, I got an important that the Chameli roots in contact with human body, are capable of reducing the blood pressure.

I got some support for my hypothesis. I am trying to get information on more uses of its roots. In Bilaspur region of Chhattisgarh, the natives use the roots of Munj grass in same way. It is known as Sarkanda locally. Munj (Saccharum munja) is a common herb in this part of Chhattisgarh. The natives also keep the Munj roots in their houses to protect themselves from evil spirits and enemies. In reference literatures, the use of its roots in kidney disorders is mentioned. There is a need to search more uses particularly its effects when it comes in contact with body. In Bagbahera region of Chhattisgarh, the natives use the leaves and roots of Black flowered Dhatura in different ways. The roots are used in Herbal Locket whereas the dried leaves are kept under the pillow, in order to get rid from fear of enemies. These parts are used for getting sound sleep and mental calmness. The use of roots in reducing inflammations has been described in Ayurveda. In many parts of Chhattisgarh, the natives use the roots of Fudhar (Calotropis gigantean) like the roots of Chameli but it is considered as less effective. It is not wrong to say that the presence of any such locket and Herbal Mala, provides protection, although mentally. Not much have been written on this unique traditional knowledge that is still in practice in many parts of Chhattisgarh. Through this article, I would like to request the researcher to throw more light on this little known knowledge so that it can be transferred to coming generations in more scientific way.

Thank you very much for reading the article.