Traditional medicinal knowledge about common herbs used in treatment of Urticaria in Chhattisgarh, India. : The results of recently conducted surveys

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

Urticaria is locally known as Shit-Pitti, Pitti or Chhappaki, In general, the traditional healers recommend the use of Haldi (Turmeric) powder and Gud (Jaggery) in treatment of Urticaria. Many patented formulations having this combination are available in local markets. I have written a lot on this combination, also on other herbs used in treatment of Urticaria in previous articles. In present article, I am giving the details of tradition uses noted during recent surveys conducted in different parts of Chhattisgarh, India. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh use common herbs both internally and externally in treatment of Urticaria. In general, they suggest the patients to regularize the life style.

According to them, this disease is a result of poor co-ordination among different vital organs. The healers give emphasis in treatment of constipation at first. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh Plains, suggest the patients to massage the body with Sarson Tel (Mustard oil) and after massage, take both with lukewarm water. This treatment is continued during the time of severe attack also. Like Haldi, the traditional healers of Southern Chhattisgarh use the seeds of Chironji (Buchanania lanzan) internally in treatment of Urticaria. During attack, the half teaspoonful of seeds is given four times a day. It is considered as one of the promising treatments. In normal days, the patients are advised to include this forest produce in their routine life. According to the healers, the regular intake of Chironji helps in prevention of further attacks. The natives prepare different sweet preparations using the seeds. The healers informed that these delicious preparations can also serve the purpose. Chironji or Char is one of the well known non-wood forest produces of Chhattisgarh.

The traditional healers of Sirsa rich areas of Chhattisgarh use the Sirsa flowers both internally and externally in treatment of Urticaria. Externally, the fresh juice of flower is applied in affected parts. Internally freshly crushed flowers are given with Shahad (Honey). The regular use of Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) seeds is also considered as promising in prevention of attack. It is used in treatment during attack also. The healers of Rajnandgaon region use the extract of Gulab flowers externally for the same purpose. They prefer indigenous varieties of Gulab (Desi Gulab). Gulab is known as Rose in English. The healers prepare Gulkand by using Gulab Petals. This Gulkand is considered as a boon for the patients having the problem of Urticaria. The use of Pan leaf juice (Pipper betle) is also common in Chhattisgarh. The healers of Bagbahera region, suggest the patients to increase the intake of cold milk (cow milk) and whey. According to them its use removes extra heat from the body. The traditional healer of Mudpar village Shri Hanumat Prasad Verma informed me that the seeds of Ajwain can be used in treatment of Urticaria. The method of use is simple. One teaspoonful seed boiled in water and decoction is prepared. After cooling, Gud (Jaggery) is added and patients are advised to take this decoction. He also suggests the use of Kamhar fruits (Gmelina sp.) The fruits are boiled in milk and given internally to the patients. Kamhar is common tree in Chhattisgarh. In previous article, I have mentioned the use of Kulthi in treatment of Renal calculi. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh consider the Kulthi seeds beneficial in treatment of Urticaria. It is used in different ways but in general, the powdered seeds are given internally with Gud (Jaggery). I have tried many of the above mentioned herbs and herbal formulations successfully. The traditional healers do not consider this trouble as a serious trouble. They give emphasis on complete and systematic treatment. This is the reason, they instruct the patients to use the herbs till complete cure so that the problem can never repeat.

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