Ethno medicinal practices of selected tribal communities in Goa- traditional healing wisdom and cultural heritage

Ethno medicinal practices incudes the study of flora and fauna by various tribal communities. It is a hybrid discipline that integrates both natural and social science which examines the historical, sociological, anthropological, economic and environmental aspects of the relationships between humans, plants and animals. In the beautiful landscapes of Goa, where green forests meet rolling hills and serene rivers, exist vibrant and diverse tribal communities. These communities are an integral part of Goan cultural mosaic, each contributing its unique traditions, customs, and way of life. Despite their relatively small population size, these tribes hold a significant place in Goan cultural heritage, preserving ancient traditions and knowledge that have been passed down through generations. Spread across different regions of Goa, each community has its own distinct identity and connection to the land, shaping Goa’s rich cultural tapestry. For the present study, a purposive sampling strategy was utilized to select participants, comprising 5 medicinal healers from Velip and Dhangar tribal communities each in Goa. Terms such as voktoli and vakdali were used interchangeably to refer to medicinal healers within the communities.