Traditional medicine, also known as indigenous medicine, holds great importance for individuals, communities and societies around the world. It is often deeply intertwined with the cultural heritage and identity of a community or nation. It reflects the accumulated knowledge, practices and beliefs of generations, contributing to a sense of cultural continuity and pride. Moreover, in many rural and economically disadvantaged areas, traditional medicine may be the primary or only form of healthcare available. It is often more accessible and affordable than modern medical services, and often complements modern medical practices. Many people use traditional remedies alongside conventional medicine to address a wide range of health issues, including chronic conditions, pain management and mental health.
Traditional medicine relies on a vast array of plant and animal species, promoting the conservation of biodiversity. This can have ecological benefits by encouraging the sustainable use and protection of medicinal plants and animals.
INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE
Indigenous knowledge (IK) refers to the unique, traditional, and region-specific knowledge systems, practices, and wisdom that are developed and passed down through generations within indigenous or local communities. In terms of traditional medicine, IK often includes the use of local plants, animals, and minerals for medicinal purposes.
Denne historien er fra October 06, 2023-utgaven av Farmer's Weekly.
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Denne historien er fra October 06, 2023-utgaven av Farmer's Weekly.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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Understanding eye conditions in horses: causes and first aid
A horse can get a swollen eye from bumping it against a tree, shaking its head to keep flies away, or even snake venom
IPM requires a completely different mindset
You need to investigate any beneficial insects that may appear on your plants, or you can purchase them
Does parrot farming protect wild species?
Those in favour of commercial captive breeding argue that breeding parrots to sell can relieve pressure on wild populations. Researchers Neil D'Cruze and Rowan Martin review the evidence.
Bacterial and fungal diseases of garlic
Garlic can be prone to bacterial and fungal diseases, and it's important that farmers are proactive in preventing infection and practise appropriate management. Magda du Toit reports.
Responsible wastewater management: a crucial part of farming
The inadequate management of waste water is a challenge that the agriculture sector needs to deal with. Magda du Toit spoke to experts in waste and water management about a cost-effective treatment system.
Technology that can help protect South Africa's farms
Farm attacks, murders, livestock and crop theft, and other rural crimes are a growing concern in South Africa. As a result, more and more farmers are turning to advanced security technology to protect their lives, properties, and livelihoods. Sinenhlanhla Mncwango spoke to experts about the security strategies that producers can adopt to combat these threats.
The impact of theft on farms in South Africa
A high number of livestock are being stolen every year in South Africa. Insurance is expensive and farmers are battling to find solutions to the problem, says Dr Lindie von Maltitz, agricultural economics lecturer in the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences at the University of the Free State.
Staying afloat amid the cost-price squeeze
John Hudson, head of agriculture at Nedbank Commercial Banking, spoke to Glenneis Kriel about the importance of environmental and social sustainability for a prosperous agriculture sector.
Free State has no reason to mark Transport Month
Free State Agriculture (FSA) is very concerned about the extremely poor state of rural paved and gravel roads in the province and has very little, if anything, to celebrate during Transport Month, which takes place every October.
SA's food system ‘vulnerable to climate change'
The Just Transition Agenda for Food System Policymaking in SA webinar, hosted by the Institute for Economic Justice (IEJ) in October, highlighted the role that South Africa’s food system plays in contributing to climate change and how vulnerable it is to the impact thereof.
