A Review on Medicinal Plants Used in Snake Bite and Centipede Bite by Folk Healers of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India

Abstract

Andaman and Nicobar Islands situated in the Bay of Bengal are having a total geographical area of 8249 Sq. Km. Out of which 7171 Sq. Km. (92%) is forest area. These forests are well known for their unique biodiversity of flora and fauna. These islands are also recognized for native aboriginal tribes as well as convicts and other migrant population settled over here since many years. They have provided healthcare facilities by Andaman & Nicobar Administration through district hospital, primary healthcare centres, community healthcare centres etc. Even though, the native tribes and other peoples are still having trend to consult traditional folk healers for common ailments as well as snake bite and centipede bites as it a significant health concern among them. All over India, many ethnic tribal groups have systematically exploited the plant resources and their uses in different diseases. But, ethnic groups of Bay Islands remain unexploited due to inaccessibility and other unfavourable conditions of these Islands. Hence a review was made on medicinal plants used in snake bite and centipede bite with their therapeutic preparation, route of administration and other details as per the folk healers of these islands. It was noted that, in a total 40 plant species are used in the management of snake bite and centipede bite in these islands. Folk healers mostly practice the application of leaves with paste on site area and very few preparations are administered internally.