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Naidu G, Tripathi DK, Nagar N, Mishra A, Poluri KM. Targeting chemokine-receptor mediated molecular signaling by ethnopharmacological approaches. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 325:117837. [PMID: 38310985 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Infection and inflammation are critical to global human health status and the goal of current pharmacological interventions intends formulating medications/preventives as a measure to deal with this situation. Chemokines and their cognate receptors are major regulatory molecules in many of these ailments. Natural products have been a keen source to the drug development industry, every year contributing significantly to the growing list of FDA approved drugs. A multiverse of natural resource is employed as a part of curative regimen in folk/traditional/ethnomedicine which can be employed to discover, repurpose, and design potent medications for the diseases of clinical concern. AIM OF THE STUDY This review aims to systematically document the ethnopharmacologically active agents targeting the infectious-inflammatory diseases through the chemokine-receptor nexus. MATERIALS AND METHODS Articles related to chemokine/receptor modulating ethnopharmacological anti-inflammatory, anti-infectious natural sources, bioactive compounds, and formulations have been examined with special emphasis on women related diseases. The available literature has been thoroughly scrutinized for the application of traditional medicines in chemokine associated experimental methods, their regulatory outcomes, and pertinence to women's health wherever applicable. Moreover, the potential traditional regimens under clinical trials have been critically assessed. RESULTS A systematic and comprehensive review on the chemokine-receptor targeting ethnopharmaceutics from the available literature has been provided. The article discusses the implication of traditional medicine in the chemokine system dynamics in diverse infectious-inflammatory disorders such as cardiovascular diseases, allergic diseases, inflammatory diseases, neuroinflammation, and cancer. On this note, critical evaluation of the available data surfaced multiple diseases prevalent in women such as osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, breast cancer, cervical cancer and urinary tract infection. Currently there is no available literature highlighting chemokine-receptor targeting using traditional medicinal approach from women's health perspective. Moreover, despite being potent in vitro and in vivo setups there remains a gap in clinical translation of these formulations, which needs to be strategically and scientifically addressed to pave the way for their successful industrial translation. CONCLUSIONS The review provides an optimistic global perspective towards the applicability of ethnopharmacology in chemokine-receptor regulated infectious and inflammatory diseases with special emphasis on ailments prevalent in women, consecutively addressing their current status of clinical translation and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goutami Naidu
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, 247667, Uttarakhand, India.
| | - Deepak Kumar Tripathi
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, 247667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Nupur Nagar
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, 247667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Amit Mishra
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Unit, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Jodhpur, 342011, Rajasthan, India
| | - Krishna Mohan Poluri
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, 247667, Uttarakhand, India; Centre for Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, 247667, Uttarakhand, India.
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Bashir SM, Altaf M, Hussain T, Umair M, Majeed M, Mangrio WM, Khan AM, Gulshan AB, Hamed MH, Ashraf S, Amjad MS, Bussmann RW, Abbasi AM, Casini R, Alataway A, Dewidar AZ, Al-Yafrsi M, Amin MH, Elansary HO. Vernacular Taxonomy, Cultural and Ethnopharmacological Applications of Avian and Mammalian Species in the Vicinity of Ayubia National Park, Himalayan Region. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12040609. [PMID: 37106809 PMCID: PMC10135773 DOI: 10.3390/biology12040609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Numerous investigations on plant ethnomedicinal applications have been conducted; however, knowledge about the medicinal use of wild animals is still limited. This present study is the second on the medicinal and cultural meaning of avian and mammalian species used by the population in the surrounding area of the Ayubia National Park, KPK, Pakistan. Interviews and meetings were compiled from the participants (N = 182) of the study area. The relative frequency of citation, fidelity level, relative popularity level, and rank order priority indices were applied to analyze the information. Overall, 137 species of wild avian and mammalian species were documented. Of these, 18 avian and 14 mammalian species were utilized to treat different diseases. The present research showed noteworthy ethno-ornithological and ethno-mammalogical knowledge of local people and their connection with fauna, which might be useful in the sustainable utilization of the biological diversity of the Ayubia National Park, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Furthermore, in vivo and/or in vitro examination of the pharmacological activities of species with the highest fidelity level (FL%) as well as frequency of mention (FM) might be important for investigations on faunal-based new drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayda Maria Bashir
- Department of Zoology, Women's University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Bagh 12500, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Altaf
- Department of Forestry, Range and Wildlife Management, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur 63100, Pakistan
| | - Tanveer Hussain
- Department of Forestry, Range and Wildlife Management, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur 63100, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Umair
- College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua 321004, China
| | - Muhammad Majeed
- Department of Botany, University of Gujrat, Hafiz Hayat Campus, Gujrat 50700, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Wali Muhammad Mangrio
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Shah Abdul Latif University, Khairpur 66111, Pakistan
| | - Arshad Mahmood Khan
- Department of Botany, Government Hashmat Ali Islamia Associate College Rawalpindi, Rawalpindi 46300, Pakistan
- Department of Botany, Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, Rawalpindi 46300, Pakistan
| | | | - M Haroon Hamed
- Department of Zoology, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Sana Ashraf
- Department of Zoology, University of Lahore, Sargodha 40100, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Shoaib Amjad
- Department of Botany, Women's University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Bagh 12500, Pakistan
| | - Rainer W Bussmann
- Department of Ethnobotany, Institute of Botany and Bakuriani Alpine Botanical Garden, Ilia State University, 0105 Tbilisi, Georgia
- Department of Botany, State Museum of Natural History, 76133 Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Arshad Mehmood Abbasi
- Department of Environment Sciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus, Abbottabad 22060, Pakistan
| | - Ryan Casini
- School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, 2121 Berkeley Way, Berkeley, CA 94704, USA
| | - Abed Alataway
- Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz International Prize for Water Chair, Prince Sultan Institute for Environmental, Water and Desert Research, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Z Dewidar
- Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz International Prize for Water Chair, Prince Sultan Institute for Environmental, Water and Desert Research, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Agricultural Engineering, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed Al-Yafrsi
- Department of Plant Production, College of Food & Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahmed H Amin
- Department of Plant Production, College of Food & Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hosam O Elansary
- Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz International Prize for Water Chair, Prince Sultan Institute for Environmental, Water and Desert Research, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Plant Production, College of Food & Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
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A survey on trade in wildlife parts in the Northern Region of Ghana. Glob Ecol Conserv 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gecco.2022.e02208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Faiz M, Altaf M, Umair M, Almarry KS, Elbadawi YB, Abbasi AM. Traditional Uses of Animals in the Himalayan Region of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:807831. [PMID: 35847043 PMCID: PMC9277021 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.807831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The use of animals and animal-derived products in ethnopharmacological applications is an ancient human practice that continues in many regions today. The local people of the Himalayan region harbor rich traditional knowledge used to treat a variety of human ailments. The present study was intended with the aim of examining animal-based traditional medicine utilized by the population of the Himalayan region of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.Methods: Data were collected from 2017 to 2019 through individual and group interviews. Data on traditional uses of animal products were analyzed, utilizing following indices such as the frequency of citation, use value, relative importance, similarity index, principal component analysis, and cluster analysis to find the highly preferred species in the area.Results: Ethnomedicinal uses of 62 species of vertebrates and invertebrates were documented. Flesh, fat, bone, whole body, milk, skin, egg, head, feathers, bile, blood, and honey were all used in these applications. The uses of 25 animals are reported here for the first time from the study area (mainly insects and birds, including iconic species like the kalij pheasant, Lophura leucomelanos; Himalayan monal, L. impejanus; and western tragopon, Tragopan melanocephalus). The diversity and range of animal-based medicines utilized in these communities are indications of their strong connections with local ecosystems.Conclusion: Our results provide baseline data valuable for the conservation of vertebrate and invertebrate diversity in the region of Himalayan of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. It is possible that screening this fauna for medicinally active chemicals could contribute to the development of new animal-based drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Faiz
- Department of Zoology, Women University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Bagh, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Altaf
- Department of Forestry, Range and Wildlife Management, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur-Pakistan, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Umair
- College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, China
- *Correspondence: Muhammad Umair, , ; Arshad Mehmood Abbasi, ,
| | - Khalid S. Almarry
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yahya B. Elbadawi
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Arshad Mehmood Abbasi
- Department of Environment Sciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad, Pakistan
- University of Gastronomic Sciences, Pollenzo, Italy
- *Correspondence: Muhammad Umair, , ; Arshad Mehmood Abbasi, ,
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Alzayer R, Almansour HA, Basheti I, Chaar B, Al Aloola N, Saini B. Asthma patients in Saudi Arabia - preferences, health beliefs and experiences that shape asthma management. ETHNICITY & HEALTH 2022; 27:877-893. [PMID: 32931314 DOI: 10.1080/13557858.2020.1817868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/23/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Objectives: The aim of this study was to explore the experience of Saudi participants in managing their asthma and their perspectives about using future pharmacy-based services for asthma management. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with adult Saudis with asthma or those who were a carer of a child with asthma. Participants were recruited from medical practices and community centres in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Verbatim transcribed interviews were inductively analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Twenty-three Saudi participants with asthma or caring for those with asthma took part in interviews which lasted on average for 25 min. Most participants did not have well-controlled asthma. Thematic analyses of the interview transcripts highlighted four key emergent themes: participants experience of asthma, participants' beliefs and perceptions about health and medicines, perception of health professionals and advocacy and social support. Many participants expressed an emotional burden in their lived experience of asthma. Lack of self-management skills were evident in participants' reluctance to make decisions in emergency situations. Some participants had strong beliefs about using herbal medicines rather than western medicines. Using social media or consulting with their family members with asthma was a common preference, rather than consulting healthcare professionals. Participants' were rather unclear about pharmacy asthma care services and reported not having experienced such services in their pharmacies. CONCLUSION Inadequate self-management behaviours may affect the level of asthma control in people with asthma in Saudi Arabia. Improved primary care models with extensive focus on asthma education are needed to relieve the over-reliance on tertiary care help-seeking models that are currently the norm. Current evidence-based information also needs to be prepared in patient friendly formats and disseminated widely. Community pharmacists would need to be trained and skilled inpatient engagement and would have to win the public trust for viable asthma services provision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem Alzayer
- Sydney Pharmacy School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Hadi A Almansour
- Sydney Pharmacy School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Iman Basheti
- Vice President and Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Betty Chaar
- Sydney Pharmacy School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Noha Al Aloola
- College of Pharmacy, Clinical Pharmacy Department, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Bandana Saini
- Sydney Pharmacy School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
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Friant S, Bonwitt J, Ayambem WA, Ifebueme NM, Alobi AO, Otukpa OM, Bennett AJ, Shea C, Rothman JM, Goldberg TL, Jacka JK. Zootherapy as a potential pathway for zoonotic spillover: a mixed-methods study of the use of animal products in medicinal and cultural practices in Nigeria. ONE HEALTH OUTLOOK 2022; 4:5. [PMID: 35216623 PMCID: PMC8881094 DOI: 10.1186/s42522-022-00060-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding how and why people interact with animals is important for the prevention and control of zoonoses. To date, studies have primarily focused on the most visible forms of human-animal contact (e.g., hunting and consumption), thereby blinding One Health researchers and practitioners to the broader range of human-animal interactions that can serve as cryptic sources of zoonotic diseases. Zootherapy, the use of animal products for traditional medicine and cultural practices, is widespread and can generate opportunities for human exposure to zoonoses. Existing research examining zootherapies omits details necessary to adequately assess potential zoonotic risks. METHODS We used a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data from questionnaires, key informant interviews, and field notes to examine the use of zootherapy in nine villages engaged in wildlife hunting, consumption, and trade in Cross River State, Nigeria. We analyzed medicinal and cultural practices involving animals from a zoonotic disease perspective, by including details of animal use that may generate pathways for zoonotic transmission. We also examined the sociodemographic, cultural, and environmental contexts of zootherapeutic practices that can further shape the nature and frequency of human-animal interactions. RESULTS Within our study population, people reported using 44 different animal species for zootherapeutic practices, including taxonomic groups considered to be "high risk" for zoonoses and threatened with extinction. Variation in use of animal parts, preparation norms, and administration practices generated a highly diverse set of zootherapeutic practices (n = 292) and potential zoonotic exposure risks. Use of zootherapy was patterned by demographic and environmental contexts, with zootherapy more commonly practiced by hunting households (OR = 2.47, p < 0.01), and prescriptions that were gender and age specific (e.g., maternal and pediatric care) or highly seasonal (e.g., associated with annual festivals and seasonal illnesses). Specific practices were informed by species availability and theories of healing (i.e., "like cures like" and sympathetic healing and magic) that further shaped the nature of human-animal interactions via zootherapy. CONCLUSIONS Epidemiological investigations of zoonoses and public health interventions that aim to reduce zoonotic exposures should explicitly consider zootherapy as a potential pathway for disease transmission and consider the sociocultural and environmental contexts of their use in health messaging and interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sagan Friant
- Department of Anthropology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA USA
- Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA USA
| | - Jesse Bonwitt
- Poxvirus and Rabies Branch, Division of High Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30329 USA
- Department of Anthropology, Durham University, Durham, UK
| | - Wilfred A. Ayambem
- Department of Forestry and Wildlife Resources Management, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
| | - Nzube M. Ifebueme
- Department of Forestry and Wildlife Resources Management, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
| | - Alobi O. Alobi
- Department of Forestry and Wildlife Resources Management, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
| | - Oshama M. Otukpa
- Department of Forestry and Wildlife Resources Management, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
| | - Andrew J. Bennett
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, University of Wisconsin – Madison, Madison, WI USA
- Genomics and Bioinformatics Department, Biological Defense Research Directorate, Naval Medical Research Center–Frederick, Fort Detrick, Frederick, MD USA
| | - Corrigan Shea
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, University of Wisconsin – Madison, Madison, WI USA
| | - Jessica M. Rothman
- Department of Anthropology, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY USA
| | - Tony L. Goldberg
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, University of Wisconsin – Madison, Madison, WI USA
| | - Jerry K. Jacka
- Department of Anthropology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309 USA
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Boakye MK, Wiafe ED, Ziekah MY. Ethnomedicinal use of pythons by traditional medicine practitioners in Ghana. AFR J HERPETOL 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/21564574.2021.1976288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maxwell K Boakye
- Department of Environmental Science, Ho Technical University, Ho, Ghana
| | - Edward D Wiafe
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, University of Environment and Sustainable Development, Somanya, Ghana
| | - Meyir Y Ziekah
- Kumasi Zoological Garden, Forestry Commission (Wildlife Division), Kumasi, Ghana
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Dharmayanti NLPI, Nurjanah D, Nuradji H, Maryanto I, Exploitasia I, Indriani R. Molecular detection of bat coronaviruses in three bat species in Indonesia. J Vet Sci 2021; 22:e70. [PMID: 34697920 PMCID: PMC8636659 DOI: 10.4142/jvs.2021.22.e70] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Bats are an important reservoir of several zoonotic diseases. However, the circulation of
bat coronaviruses (BatCoV) in live animal markets in Indonesia has not been reported.
Genetic characterization of BatCoV was performed by sequencing partial RdRp genes.
Real-time polymerase chain reaction based on nucleocapsid protein (N) gene and
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay against the N protein were conducted to detect the
presence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) viral RNA and
antibody, respectively. We identified the presence of BatCoV on Cynopterus
brachyotis, Macroglossus minimus, and Rousettus
amplexicaudatus. The results showed that the BatCoV included in this study are
from an unclassified coronavirus group. Notably, SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA and antibodies were
not detected in the sampled bats.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Diana Nurjanah
- Indonesian Research Center for Veterinary Science, Ministry of Agriculture, Bogor 16124, Indonesia
| | - Harimurti Nuradji
- Indonesian Research Center for Veterinary Science, Ministry of Agriculture, Bogor 16124, Indonesia
| | - Ibnu Maryanto
- Research Centre for Biology, Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI), Bogor 16911, Indonesia
| | - Indra Exploitasia
- Biodiversity Conservation for the Indonesian Ministry of Environment and Forestry, Jakarta 10270, Indonesia
| | - Risa Indriani
- Indonesian Research Center for Veterinary Science, Ministry of Agriculture, Bogor 16124, Indonesia
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Mahomoodally MF, Sanaa DA, Zengin G, Gallo M, Montesano D. Traditional Therapeutic Uses of Marine Animal Parts and Derived Products as Functional Foods – A Systematic Review. FOOD REVIEWS INTERNATIONAL 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/87559129.2021.1926486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Fawzi Mahomoodally
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Mauritius, Mauritius
| | - Dilmar Aniisah Sanaa
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Mauritius, Mauritius
| | - Gokhan Zengin
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Selcuk Universtiy, Konya, Turkey
| | - Monica Gallo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Domenico Montesano
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Section of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
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Suwannarong K, Janetanakit T, Kanthawee P, Suwannarong K, Theamboonlers A, Poovorawan Y, Tun HM, Chanabun S, Amonsin A. Coronavirus seroprevalence among villagers exposed to bats in Thailand. Zoonoses Public Health 2021; 68:464-473. [PMID: 33864357 PMCID: PMC8251071 DOI: 10.1111/zph.12833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
A serological survey of human coronavirus antibodies among villagers in 10 provinces of Thailand was conducted during 2016–2018. Serum samples (n = 364) were collected from participants from the villages and tested for coronavirus antibodies using a human coronavirus IgG ELISA kit. Our results showed that 10.44% (38/364; 21 males and 17 females) of the villagers had antibodies against human coronaviruses. The odds ratio for coronavirus positivity in the villagers in the central region who were exposed to bats was 4.75, 95% CI 1.04–21.70, when compared to that in the non‐exposed villagers. The sociodemographics, knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of the villagers were also recorded and analysed by using a quantitative structured questionnaire. Our results showed that 62.36% (227/364) of the villagers had been exposed to bats at least once in the past six months. Low monthly family income was statistically significant in increasing the risk for coronavirus seropositivity among the villagers (OR 2.91, 95% CI 1.13–7.49). In‐depth interviews among the coronavirus‐positive participants (n = 30) showed that cultural context, local norms and beliefs could influence to bat exposure activities. In conclusion, our results provide baseline information on human coronavirus antibodies and KAP regarding to bat exposure among villagers in Thailand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanokwan Suwannarong
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases in Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Taveesak Janetanakit
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases in Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | | | - Apiradee Theamboonlers
- Center of Excellence for Clinical Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Yong Poovorawan
- Center of Excellence for Clinical Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Hein M Tun
- HKU-Pasteur Research Pole, School of Public Health, LKS Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Sutin Chanabun
- Sirinthorn College of Public Health Khon Kaen, Ministry of Public Health, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Alongkorn Amonsin
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases in Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Morrison BJ, Rubin JE. Detection of multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria from imported reptile and amphibian meats. J Appl Microbiol 2020; 129:1053-1061. [PMID: 32259384 DOI: 10.1111/jam.14658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2019] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The food supply is a potential source of antimicrobial resistance. Current surveillance programmes targeting food are limited to beef, pork and poultry and do not capture niche products. In this study, imported reptile and amphibian products were screened for antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. METHODS AND RESULTS In all, 53 items including soft shell turtles, frog legs, geckos, snakes and a turtle carapace were purchased from specialty markets in Vancouver and Saskatoon, Canada. Samples were selectively cultured for Salmonella sp., Escherichia coli, extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacteriaceae and meropenem-resistant organisms. Salmonella, all pan-susceptible, were grown from six dried geckos. Escherichia coli were isolated from 19 samples, including ESBL producers from six items. One multidrug-resistant E. coli possessed both the blaCTX-M-55 and mcr-1 genes. An NDM-1-producing Acinetobacter sp. was also isolated from a dried turtle carapace. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that imported reptile and amphibian meats are an underappreciated source of resistant bacteria. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY The international trade of food may play a role in the dissemination of resistant bacteria. The presence of these bacteria in niche market foods represents a risk of unknown magnitude to public health and a gap in current national resistance surveillance programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- B J Morrison
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - J E Rubin
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
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Loko LEY, Medegan Fagla S, Orobiyi A, Glinma B, Toffa J, Koukoui O, Djogbenou L, Gbaguidi F. Traditional knowledge of invertebrates used for medicine and magical-religious purposes by traditional healers and indigenous populations in the Plateau Department, Republic of Benin. JOURNAL OF ETHNOBIOLOGY AND ETHNOMEDICINE 2019; 15:66. [PMID: 31842934 PMCID: PMC6916055 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-019-0344-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since ancient times, invertebrates have played an important role in the traditional medicine in many parts of the world. In south-eastern Benin, more specifically in the Plateau Department, invertebrates are widely used in folk medicine. However, studies on their therapeutic use has been neglected and their magical-religious purposes are poorly understood. The present study aims to document traditional knowledge related to the use of invertebrates for medicinal and magical-religious purposes by traditional healers and indigenous people of Plateau Department. METHODS An ethno-sociological survey was conducted with 145 informants (80 traditional healers, 12 merchants of medicinal animals and 53 households) belonging to six ethnic groups, in 20 villages located in Plateau of Benin. Data were collected through the participatory rural appraisal method involving individual interviews and direct observations with semi-structured questionnaires. The collected data regarding various medicinal and magical-religious uses of invertebrates were analysed through informant consensus factor (ICF), use value (UV) and, fidelity level (FL). RESULTS A total of 20 families and 38 species of invertebrates, distributed among 6 taxonomic categories, were found to be used to treat 50 different ailments. Insects occupied 64.7% of the total invertebrates listed. The African earthworm Eudrilus eugeniae K. and African giant snail Achatina achatina L. had the highest use values. The highest ICF value (1.0) was cited for diseases of the blood or blood-forming organs. A principal component analysis (PCA) revealed the influence of ethnic groups in the diseases treated with invertebrates. The highest FL (100%) was recorded for 12 invertebrate species treating various ailments. Most of invertebrate-based remedies were associated with plant species. The mode of administration was mainly oral and topical. Most of the invertebrate drugs were traditionally collected in nature or imported, mainly from Nigeria. In addition, 7 magical-religious practices are documented. CONCLUSIONS Our results reveal that several invertebrate species play an important role in healing practices and magical-religious rituals in the Plateau Department. We suggest further studies to confirm the presence of any bioactive compounds on invertebrate species use in traditional medicine. In addition, this study highlights the need for ecological investigations of these species, in order to develop strategies for their conservation and sustainable use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Estelle Yêyinou Loko
- Laboratory of Applied Entomology, Faculty of Sciences and Technology of Dassa (FAST-Dassa), National University of Sciences, Technologies, Engineering and Mathematics of Abomey (UNSTIM), BP 14 Dassa-Zoumé, Benin
| | - Sédami Medegan Fagla
- Medicinal and Organic Chemistry Laboratory, Faculty of Health Sciences, 01, BP 188 Cotonou, Benin
| | - Azize Orobiyi
- Laboratory of Applied Entomology, Faculty of Sciences and Technology of Dassa (FAST-Dassa), National University of Sciences, Technologies, Engineering and Mathematics of Abomey (UNSTIM), BP 14 Dassa-Zoumé, Benin
| | - Bienvenu Glinma
- Laboratory of Physics and Synthesis Organic Chemistry (LaCOPS), Faculty of Sciences and Techniques (FAST), University of Abomey-Calavi, BP 4521 Cotonou, Benin
| | - Joelle Toffa
- Laboratory of Applied Entomology, Faculty of Sciences and Technology of Dassa (FAST-Dassa), National University of Sciences, Technologies, Engineering and Mathematics of Abomey (UNSTIM), BP 14 Dassa-Zoumé, Benin
| | - Omédine Koukoui
- Laboratoire de Physiologie Animale de Signalisation Cellulaire et de Pharmacologie, FAST-Dassa, UNSTIM, BP 34 Dassa Zoumé, Benin
| | - Luc Djogbenou
- Laboratoire des maladies infectueuses à transmission vectorielle, Institut Régional de Santé Publique, University of Abomey-Calavi, BP 384 Ouidah, Benin
| | - Fernand Gbaguidi
- Medicinal and Organic Chemistry Laboratory, Faculty of Health Sciences, 01, BP 188 Cotonou, Benin
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Shezi B, Naidoo RN, Muttoo S, Mathee A, Alfers L, Dobson R, Ndlovu P, Street RA. Informal-sector occupational hazards: an observational workplace assessment of the traditional medicine trade in South Africa. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND ERGONOMICS 2019; 27:562-569. [DOI: 10.1080/10803548.2019.1602329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Busisiwe Shezi
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, South Africa
| | - Rajen N. Naidoo
- Occupational and Environmental Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Sheena Muttoo
- Occupational and Environmental Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Angela Mathee
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, South Africa
| | - Laura Alfers
- Women in Informal Employment: Globalizing and Organizing, South Africa
| | | | | | - Renee A. Street
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, South Africa
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Shrestha B, Gurung MB. Ethnoherpetological notes regarding the paha frogs and conservation implication in Manaslu Conservation Area, Gorkha District, Nepal. JOURNAL OF ETHNOBIOLOGY AND ETHNOMEDICINE 2019; 15:23. [PMID: 31077223 PMCID: PMC6511138 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-019-0304-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Paha hunting is a commonplace recreational activity in the mountainous regions of Nepal. The collection is primarily for food use and secondarily preferred as medicinal forms, and utilized by many ethnic groups: Magar, Rai, Gurung, Jirel, etc. in different parts of the country. In this study, we documented the ethnoherpetological relationship of the local community with paha frogs in Manaslu Conservation Area, Gorkha District, Nepal. We confirmed the use of three species of paha, namely Nanorana liebigii, known locally as Man paha, Ombrana sikimensis, and Amolops formosus by the local community and recorded information on paha hunting strategy, meat preparation and storage techniques, zootherapeutic benefits, quantities harvested, and population status perception. METHODS We conducted our fieldwork in the period between April 2016 and March 2017 in major settlements of Sirdibas, Chumchet, Bihi, and Prok villages. We interviewed 50 people (39 males and 11 females) using a semi-structured questionnaire format and recorded open interviews with potential informants. Our survey focused mainly over Sirdibas village inhabited by Gurungs. RESULTS People usually hunted paha in Spring (March to May) and Summer (June to August) season either by flashing torchlight at night time (45.7%) or flipping big rocks under the water (29.6%). Nanorana liebigii (50%) is highly preferred for its dual purpose of delicacy and medicine, while Ombrana sikimensis (33.33%) solely considered for food and Amolops formosus (16.67%) for medicine. Majority of the people (43.90%) collected 51-100 individuals of paha at one hunting season and sold locally in the price range between NPR 50-250 (USD 0.45-2.26). People opined paha numbers have diminished over the last decade (76%), suggested strict regulation of hunting (58.5%), and educational campaigns (29.2%) as measures of protection. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrated the difference in ethnoherpetological relationship among the Gurung community in lower Sirdibas village and the Tibetan Lama community in Manaslu. Since frogs around the world are in rapid decline, it is imperative that recreational killings of paha need to be checked with regulatory mechanisms across Nepal. There is an urgent need to shelter paha frogs under wildlife protection regulation and prioritize for conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biraj Shrestha
- Resources Himalaya Foundation, Naya bato, Sanepa, Ring road, Lalitpur, Nepal
| | - Min Bahadur Gurung
- Small Mammals Conservation and Research Foundation, Kumaripati, Lalitpur, Nepal
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Al-Asmari AK, Riyasdeen A, Islam M. Scorpion Venom Causes Apoptosis by Increasing Reactive Oxygen Species and Cell Cycle Arrest in MDA-MB-231 and HCT-8 Cancer Cell Lines. J Evid Based Integr Med 2019; 23:2156587217751796. [PMID: 29405760 PMCID: PMC5881405 DOI: 10.1177/2156587217751796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of scorpion venoms on cancer cell progression, apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest. Scorpion venoms are known to possess numerous bioactive compounds that act against cancer progression by inducing apoptosis. In this study, we have taken the venoms from the following 2 species of scorpion—Androctonus crassicauda and Leiurus quinquestriatus—and tested the anticancer properties of the venom against breast and colorectal cancer cell lines. Methods. Milking of scorpion venom and culturing the breast and colorectal cancer cell lines were done according to the standard procedure. The venom cytotoxicity was assessed by MTT methods, and the cellular and nuclear changes were studied with phase contrast and propidium iodide staining, respectively. The cell cycle arrest and accumulation of reactive oxygen species were analyzed on a Muse cell analyzer. Results. The venoms exerted cytotoxic effects on breast and colorectal cell lines in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Enhanced apoptotic cells, increase in reactive oxygen species, and cell cycle arrest were observed after challenging these cell lines with scorpion venoms. Conclusions. Scorpion venom induces apoptosis in breast and colorectal cell lines as reflected by the changes in the cell morphology and cell cycle studies. Furthermore, a high percentage of total reactive oxygen species as well as apoptotic cells also contribute to cell death as observed after venom treatments. To the best of authors’ knowledge, this is the first scientific evidence demonstrating the induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest by these species of scorpion venoms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mozaffarul Islam
- 1 Research Center, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Altaf M, Umair M, Abbasi AR, Muhammad N, Abbasi AM. Ethnomedicinal applications of animal species by the local communities of Punjab, Pakistan. JOURNAL OF ETHNOBIOLOGY AND ETHNOMEDICINE 2018; 14:55. [PMID: 30111346 PMCID: PMC6094468 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-018-0253-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Accepted: 07/31/2018] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Different species of animals are being utilized in traditional therapies by various cultures for a long time and such uses still exist in folk medicine. The present study aimed to document animal-based traditional therapies used by the local communities of Jhelum and Lahore districts of the Punjab province, Pakistan. METHODS Field surveys were conducted in 2015-2016 in six different sites of the study areas. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and face to face conversation with local informants. RESULTS The ethnomedicinal uses of 57 species of animals including mammals, birds, fish, reptiles, amphibian, and invertebrates (30, 25, 25, 7, 3.5, and 3.5%, respectively) were documented. Meat, oil, brain, fats, milk, eggs, and skin were the most utilized body parts. Ovis orientalis punjabiensis, Francolinus francolinus, Sperata sarwari, Channa punctata, Oreochromis niloticus, Ctenopharyngodon idella, Cyprinus carpio, Labeo rohita, and Carassius auratus were reported for the first time to treat human diseases, i.e., allergy, epilepsy, fever, joint pain, and backache, to act as aphrodisiac, and to enhance memory. Streptopelia decaocto and S. tranquebarica were the most frequently utilized species with highest frequency of citation (32 for each). Columba livia depicted highest fidelity level and used value of 92.86% and 0.89, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Being agro-pastoralists, the inhabitants of Jhelum possess more traditional knowledge compared to Lahore. The present study could be important for conservation and sustainable use of animal biodiversity in this region. Additionally, detailed study on chemical profiling and bioactivities may lead to animal-based novel drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Altaf
- Department of Zoology, Women University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Bagh, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Umair
- School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Abdul Rauf Abbasi
- Statistical Wing, Department of Mathematics, Women University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Bagh, Pakistan
| | - Noor Muhammad
- Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Arshad Mehmood Abbasi
- Department of Environment Sciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus, Abbottabad, Pakistan
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Questionnaire survey of the pan-African trade in lion body parts. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0187060. [PMID: 29073202 PMCID: PMC5658145 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0187060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The African lion is in decline across its range, and consumptive utilisation and trade of their body parts and skins has been postulated as a cause for concern. We undertook a pan-African questionnaire and literature survey to document informed opinion and evidence for the occurrence of domestic and international trade and consumption in African lion body parts across current and former range states. Sixty-five people from 18 countries participated in the online questionnaire survey (run from July 2014 to May 2015), with information provided for 28 countries (including 20 out of 24 countries believed to have extant populations). Respondents were experts within their professional spheres, and 77% had ≥6 years relevant experience within lion conservation or allied wildlife matters. Their opinions revealed wide sub-regional differences in consumptive use, drivers of trade, and access to lions that impact wild lion populations in different ways. Traditional medicine practices (African and Asian) were perceived to be the main uses to which lion body parts and bones are put domestically and traded internationally, and there is reason for concern about persistent imports from former lion range states (mainly in West Africa) for parts for this purpose. The domestic, rather than international, trade in lion body parts was perceived to be a bigger threat to wild lion populations. Parts such as skin, claws, teeth and bones are thought to be in most demand across the continent. The impact of international trade on wild populations was acknowledged to be largely unknown, but occasionally was judged to be ‘high’, and therefore vigilance is needed to monitor emerging detrimental impacts. Seventeen countries were nominated as priorities for immediate monitoring, including: South Africa, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Zambia, Botswana, Kenya, Nigeria, and Cameroon. Reasons for their selection include: prevalence of trophy hunting, ‘hot spots’ for poaching, active domestic trade in lion body parts, trade in curios for the tourist market, and histories of legal-illegal wildlife trade. This survey, and increased incident reports since mid-2015 of lion poisoning and poaching in Mozambique, Zimbabwe and South Africa, and sporadic poaching events in Uganda and Tanzania, are signalling an escalating trend in the trade of lion products that is an increasing threat to some national populations. The evidence is sufficient to make more detailed investigation of this trade a conservation priority.
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Altaf M, Javid A, Umair M, Iqbal KJ, Rasheed Z, Abbasi AM. Ethnomedicinal and cultural practices of mammals and birds in the vicinity of river Chenab, Punjab-Pakistan. JOURNAL OF ETHNOBIOLOGY AND ETHNOMEDICINE 2017; 13:41. [PMID: 28701165 PMCID: PMC5508792 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-017-0168-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 06/26/2017] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although, use of animal species in disease treatment and culture practices is as ancient as that of plant species; however ethnomedicinal uses and cultural values of animal species have rarely been reported. Present study is the first report on the medicinal uses of mammals and bird species in Pakistan. METHODS Questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were applied to collect qualitative and quantitative data from local informants (N = 109). Relative frequency of mention (RFM), fidelity level (FL), relative popularity level (RPL), similarity index (SI) and rank order priority (ROP) indices were used to analyzed the data. RESULTS One hundred and eight species of animals, which include: 83% birds and 17% mammals were documented. In total 30 mammalian and 28 birds' species were used to treat various diseases such as rheumatic disorders, skin infections and sexual weakness among several others. Fats, flesh, blood, milk and eggs were the most commonly utilized body parts. Bos taurus, Bubalus bubalis, Capra aegagrus hircus, Felis domesticus, Lepus nigricollis dayanus and Ovis aries (mammals) and Anas platyrhynchos domesticus, Columba livia, Coturnix coturnix, Gallus gallus and Passer domesticus (birds) were the highly utilized species. Medicinal and cultural uses of 30% mammals and 46% birds were reported for the first time, whereas 33% mammals and 79% birds depicted zero similarity with previous reports. CONCLUSION Present study exhibits significant ethnozoological knowledge of local inhabitants and their strong association with animal species, which could be helpful in sustainable use of biodiversity of the region. Additionally, in vitro and in vivo evaluation of biological activities in the mammalian and birds' species with maximum fidelity level and frequency of mention could be important to discover animal based novel drugs. Some commonly used mammals and birds species of the study area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Altaf
- Department of Zoology, Women University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Bagh, Pakistan
| | - Arshad Javid
- Department of Wildlife and Ecology, University of the Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Umair
- School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Khalid Javed Iqbal
- Department of Life Sciences, Islamia University Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Zahid Rasheed
- Department of Mathematics, Women University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Bagh, Pakistan
| | - Arshad Mehmood Abbasi
- Department of Environment Sciences, COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Abbottabad, Pakistan
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García-López R, Villegas A, Pacheco-Coronel N, Gómez-Álvarez G. Traditional use and perception of snakes by the Nahuas from Cuetzalan del Progreso, Puebla, Mexico. JOURNAL OF ETHNOBIOLOGY AND ETHNOMEDICINE 2017; 13:6. [PMID: 28109304 PMCID: PMC5251290 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-016-0134-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 12/28/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Indigenous cultures are the result of their adaptation to the natural surroundings, in such a way that, amongst their main features is a set of knowledge, technologies and strategies for the appropriation of nature. In Cuetzalan del Progreso, Puebla, Mexico snakes represent 71.1% of the total local herpetofauna; and in addition to this, different groups of Nahuas have shown to have information of their use of various snake species in many ways. This study was conducted to investigate the traditional uses of snakes in this cultural group. METHODS Formal and informal interviews were conducted with the inhabitants of the communities. During these interviews, 30 images of the different species of snakes present in the area were presented to the subjects, so that they would recognize them and reveal information about the knowledge they possess on them. A usage analysis was applied to each species considering the following categories: food purposes, medicinal, artisanal and magical-religious. Likewise, the frequency, the diversity and the value of use was estimated for these snakes. RESULTS A total of 51 interviews were carried out. The individuals recognized 18 out of 30 images of snakes that were presented. The total of usage categories was five; we found that the magic-religious use was the most mentioned by 32 personas. Boa imperator and Antropoides nummifer were the species with the highest value of use. More than half of the interviewees mentioned killing snakes because they're poisonous and aggressive. In the magic-religious aspect the "Danza de los Negritos" is highlighted; this is a local festival, brought by Africans, and alludes to snakes. CONCLUSIONS This study revealed that snakes are still very important for the culture in Cuetzalan del Progreso, finding that the magical-religious and the medicinal use stand out. On the other hand, the fear and misperception on the toxicity of snakes might represent a potential threat for their conservation. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out a long-term monitoring of the ethno-zoological activities, and develop a sustainable management plan compatible with the cultural characteristics of the natives of the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romina García-López
- Laboratorio de Vertebrados, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, C.P. 04510 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Alejandro Villegas
- Laboratorio de Vertebrados, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, C.P. 04510 Ciudad de México, Mexico
- Departamento de Etología, Fauna Silvestre y Animales de Laboratorio, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, C.P. 04510 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Noé Pacheco-Coronel
- Laboratorio de Vertebrados, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, C.P. 04510 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Graciela Gómez-Álvarez
- Laboratorio de Vertebrados, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, C.P. 04510 Ciudad de México, Mexico
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González JA, Amich F, Postigo-Mota S, Vallejo JR. Therapeutic and prophylactic uses of invertebrates in contemporary Spanish ethnoveterinary medicine. JOURNAL OF ETHNOBIOLOGY AND ETHNOMEDICINE 2016; 12:36. [PMID: 27595672 PMCID: PMC5011348 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-016-0111-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2016] [Accepted: 08/27/2016] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Zootherapeutic practices in ethnoveterinary medicine are important in many socio-cultural environments around the world, particularly in developing countries, and they have recently started to be inventoried and studied in Europe. In light of this, the purpose of this review is to describe the local knowledge and folk remedies based on the use of invertebrates and their derivative products in contemporary Spanish ethnoveterinary medicine. An overview in the fields of ethnozoology, ethnoveterinary medicine and folklore was made. Automated searches in the most important databases were performed. All related works were examined thoroughly and use-reports were obtained from 53 documentary sources. The traditional use of 18 invertebrate species and five ethnotaxa and a total of 86 empirical remedies based on the use of a single species was recorded. The two most relevant zoological groups were found to be insects and molluscs. A broad diversity of body parts or derivative products have been and are used to treat or prevent ca. 50 animal diseases or conditions, in particular diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, different infectious livestock diseases, and disorders of the eye and adnexa. Cattle, sheep and equines form the group of domestic animals in which the greatest number of remedies are mentioned. In addition, seven magical remedies and practices are documented. In comparison with other culturally related areas, this is a rich heritage. The use-reports included here will help in the search for new and low-cost drugs for treating livestock and alternative materials for pharmaceutical purposes, future research addressing the validation of the effects and the development of organic farming.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Antonio González
- Grupo de Investigación de Recursos Etnobiológicos del Duero-Douro (GRIRED), Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Francisco Amich
- Grupo de Investigación de Recursos Etnobiológicos del Duero-Douro (GRIRED), Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Salvador Postigo-Mota
- Equipo de Antropología Social y Cultural, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Extremadura, Badajoz, Spain
| | - José Ramón Vallejo
- Departamento de Terapéutica Médico-Quirúrgica (Facultad de Medicina) – Departamento de Didáctica de las Ciencias Experimentales y de las Matemáticas (Facultad de Educación), Universidad de Extremadura, Badajoz, Spain
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Williams VL, Moshoeu TJ, Alexander GJ. Reptiles sold as traditional medicine in Xipamanine and Xiquelene Markets (Maputo, Mozambique). S AFR J SCI 2016. [DOI: 10.17159/sajs.2016/20150416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract Zootherapy plays a role in healing practices in Mozambican society. Although several studies have focused on ethnobotany and traditional medicine in the country, little research has been conducted on the use of reptiles in zootherapy. The aim of this study was therefore to fill this gap by assessing the reptile species traded for traditional medicine in the Xipamanine and Xiquelene Markets in Maputo, Mozambique. We found that few reptile species are traded domestically for traditional medicine and that their use appears to be in decline in Mozambique. Our findings also suggest that the domestic trade of reptiles for traditional medicines in Maputo markets is unlikely to have a significant impact on the conservation of reptiles in Mozambique. However, we suggest that international trade with South Africa is likely having a larger impact, given observations of Mozambican nationals selling a diverse range of fauna in urban traditional medicine markets in Johannesburg and Durban.
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