Traditional knowledge of Snakebite treatment: Medicinal plants utilized by Vaidyas in Parassala, Thiruvananthapuram

Abstract

Snakebite envenomation remains a significant public health concern in rural regions of India, particularly in Kerala, where agricultural activities and human snake interactions are frequent. Despite the availability of modern antivenom therapy, traditional treatment practices by Vaidyas (indigenous healers) continue to play a vital role in primary healthcare, especially in remote areas. This ethnobotanical study documents and analyses the medicinal plants employed by Vaidyas in Parassala, Thiruvananthapuram, for the treatment of snakebites. Data were collected through semistructured interviews and field observations, recording plant species, local names, plant parts used, preparation methods, and modes of administration. A total of 15 medicinal plant species belonging to 12 families were identified, with leaves being the most commonly used plant part, followed by roots and bark. The remedies involved both oral administration and topical applications, often accompanied by specific rituals. The findings highlight the rich repository of traditional knowledge in Parassala and underline the need for conservation, scientific validation, and sustainable use of these plant resources. This study serves as a baseline for future pharmacological investigations and the preservation of cultural heritage associated with snakebite management.