Overview
Health and growth and development of foraging societies varies greatly from group to group. Each society has their own ways of coping with health issues and practices of child rearing. This variation is most commonly explained by social practices of different groups. For instance, some societies uses gathered resources for medicinal purposes while other groups use the power of a healer. In many cases, long term studies of health have not been conducted within foraging societies. Due to the lack of long term research, many societies health practices are unknown.
Aboriginal Bush Medicine
In many cultures, the healing agents found in plant life has been harnessed by people and used for medicinal purposes. One of the most popularized groups to do so are the Australian Aborigines. In fact, many of the plant remedies are still used today. Australian Aborigines would gather different plants and use them to treat different ailments. More information about Australian Aborigines can be found on the Australian Aborigines page.
Chemical Extracts Found in Plants
| Chemical Extracts Found In Plants | Usage |
|---|---|
| Alkaloids | Alkaloids have a variety of medicinal purposes. While they are therapeutic, they can also be toxic at high levels. Alkaloids are most commonly in the form of caffeine, morphine, quinine, atropine, nicotine, codeine, strychnine and cocaine. |
| Latex | Latex can be found as a fluid in some plants such as fig trees. Latex contains an enzyme which digests protein. Therefore the extract is used most commonly for removal of warts and corns as well as cleaning open wounds and ulcers. |
| Mucilage | Used as a soothing agent for inflammations. |
| Plant Oils | Eucalyptus, mint, and other plants with oil glands can be used as an antimicrobial agent. |
| Tannins | Found in bark and some fruits and leaves, this extract acts as an astringent. Therefore this extract is commonly used for coughs, colds, and small wounds. |
- Table adapted from information by the Australian National Botanic Gardens Education Services
Examples of Medicinal Plants
| Plant Name | Usage |
|---|---|
| Beyeria leschenaultii (pale turpentine bush) | Used as a remedy for tuberculosis and fevers. |
| Melaleuca quinquenervia (broad-leaved paperbark) | Chewed as a treatment for colds and headaches. |
| Vigna vexillata (native cowpea) | Roots are eaten to treat constipation. |
- Table adapted from information by the Australian National Botanic Gardens Education Services
Cited Works
2000. Aboriginal Bush Medicine. Australian National Botanic Gardens Education Services.
- For an external link, click Aboriginal Bush Medicine.
