Traditional medicinal knowledge about Tortoise beetle Silana farinosa (Boheman) [Cassidinae : Coleoptera] feeding on Murraya koenigii leaves, in Chhattisgarh, India.
Kadhi Patta (Murraya koenigii syn. Bergera koenigii) is a large shrub or small tree and it is under cultivation in many parts of India. Its leaves are popularly used for flovouring curries. In Chhattisgarh, it is planted in home gardens. The natives and traditional healers are aware of its many medicinal properties and uses. In reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India, Murraya holds a reputed position as medicinal herb. In many parts of Chhattisgarh particularly in Southern region, the Tortoise beetle Silana farinosa feeds on Murraya plant. Its infestation not causes much damage to the plant as in other parts of India. During the Ethno-entomological surveys conducted in different parts of Chhattisgarh, I have noted that the traditional healers specialized in treatment of Mirgi (Epilepsy) use the grub and adult of this beetle in treatment. They collect the grubs and adults and dry it in shade. After drying, the powder is prepared and stored for future use. Only full fed grubs and adults are used. In case of attack, the powder is burnt and patients are suggested to inhale the fumes. It is considered as one of the promising first aid measures. The healers boil the freshly collected grubs and adults in base oil with medicinal herbs and when all watery contents evaporate the boiling is stopped and special oil is used externally. The special oil is massaged on soles. It is considered as promising supplement treatment with main treatment of Mirgi. As base oil, Til (Sesame seed) oil is used. According to the traditional healers, the grubs and beetles play an important role in making the special oil medicinally rich. In general, the grubs and adults are mixed in equal proportion but grubs are more preferred by the healers as compared to the beetles. The traditional healers are not aware of its other medicinal uses. I have observed during the surveys that this specific use is now limited to few traditional healers. The other insect species feeding on Murraya are also used as medicine but the healers consider these species less effective in treatment of Mirgi.
In reference literatures, Silana farinosa is not mentioned as medicinal insect. The traditional medicinal uses of Silana farinosa feeding on Murraya leaves have also not been reported.
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