Study of Culinary Food Items Used by the Schedule Caste Peoples of Manipur
Author : Dr. S Shyamkiran Singh
Abstract :
This study investigates the use of culinary food items as medicines by the Schedule Caste Peoples of Manipur. Traditional knowledge and practices in food preparation and preservation often incorporate medicinal properties that have been passed down through generations. The Schedule caste peoples put several norms for eating food items accordingly to the season and its consequences. Most of the food items (72%) were wild and the parts used for food as medicinal properties were above-ground (83%). Mixed mode of preparation is the most common way of preparation and common ailments constitute the major ailments treated. This research aims to document these practices, identify the specific food items used, and understand their perceived health benefits. The findings highlight the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge on preparation and preservation of culinary food items and promoting the use of culinary foods in natural remedies in contemporary health practices.
Keywords :
Culinary food, medicines, traditional knowledge, preserving indigenous knowledge
