Herbal Treatment for Eczema (Ring Worm) by Bhumkas in Patalkot valley

Bhumkas (local herbal healers) in Patalkot valley are knowledge bank of herbs and herbal medicines. They cure various health disorders by using herbs found naturally in the valley. During the scouting and documentation in the valley, we found very interesting herbal treatment methodology for skin care. Healers apply various parts of herbs, prepare decoction or simply apply the dried herbal powder over the skin just to get rid of any skin related problems. Patalkot healers claim to have cure for almost every disorder related to skin. This knowledge of herbs has been passed from generations to generation. The current article brings brief information about few medicinally important plants used by the local healers for the treatment of skin disorders.

The information was collected during the extensive surveys which were made in various hamlets in Patalkot. All the plants were collected and identified by a well trained research team and much other important information were also cross checked from authentic books, photographs and herbariums.

1. Abrus precatories L. (Leguminosae) ´Ratti´

The juice of root, mixed with the half the amount of the juice of Allium sativum is applied on ringworm spots.

2. Achyranthes aspera L. (Amaranthaceae) 'Datiwan´

The juice of root is applied to treat ringworm.

3. Ageratum conizoides L. (Compositae ) 'Gaee ghas'

The juice of plant is applied on boils and pimples and it is said to be effective against ringworm causing fungi.

4. Allium sativum L. ( Amaryllidaceae) 'Lasun'

The buds, mixed with some salt are pounded and the paste is applied to treat ringworm. After the application of the medicine for 2-3 times, a layer is formed which is removed and the treatment is continued for about 2 weeks.

5. Alternanthera sessilis (L.) DC. (Amaranthaceae) 'Bisauna'

The juice of plant, mixed in equal amount with the plant juice of Eclipta prostate is applied to treat ringworm.

6. Argemone mexicana L. (Papaveraceae) ´Pili Kateri´

The juice of seeds is applied in case of itching and ringword.

7. Asclepias curassavica L. (Asclepiadaceae) 'Machha'

The juice of root mixed with the latex of Ficus religiosa is warmed and applied to treat ringworm.

8. Azadirachta indica A. Juss. (Meliaceae) 'Neem'

The juice of bark is applied in case of patchy skin and ringworm. It is effective in itching too.

9. Bauhinia variegata Eight & Arn. (Leguminosae) 'Kachnaar'

Leaves are crushed and applied over the infected skin.

10. Carica papaya L. (Caricaceae) 'Papita'

The latex, mixed with the paste of Eclipta prostrata is applied is case of ringworm. The paste of seed is also applied to treat the same disease.

The above mentioned herbal practices are not proved clinically. A proper advice from your family doctor should be taken before application of any the above mentioned practices. This article is written for the information purposes. Author should not be held for any misconduct.

Note: Information retrieved from: Digital Database of Medicinal Plants, Practices and Healers of Patalkot and Dangs (Author: Dr Deepak Acharya) with prior consent.