A survey on traditional knowledge of zootherapeutic uses among different ethnic communities of Marybong Valley of Darjeeling hills

Abstract

Indigenous healing practices have long included bioresources derived from plants and animals and in contemporary society, this practice continues to be a vital option within the healthcare system. For such indigenous knowledge to be preserved over time, documentation is essential. The present study aims to explore and document the traditional knowledge of ethnozoology among the different ethnic communities residing in the Marybong Valley of Darjeeling Hills. The data was collected through a field survey conducted from February 2024 to September 2024 using a structured questionnaire. A total of 202 respondents were interviewed. Respondents listed about 54 animals (40 wild and 14 domesticated, along with humans) belonging to 10 classes, 27 orders, 38 families and 48 genera used to treat 59 human ailments. Mammals represented the highest number. Our study also shows that numerous ethnic groups living in the Darjeeling Hills have a wealth of traditional knowledge and folklore about using animals for therapeutic purposes; however, the importance of these knowledge systems is rapidly diminishing among the younger generation. Therefore, supporting the documentation of such traditional knowledge is imperative to guarantee its availability and preservation for future generations.