Interaction Between Traditional and Modern System of Medicine in a Primitive Tribe of Rajasthan

Abstract

The development of healing processes and techniques has come a long way form widely varying tribal pursuits in different communities spread over the globe. But in course of time they become over shadowed by and subordinated to the thrusts of western medical assumptions, injunctions and standards, with the progress of industrialization. No doubt the latter have proved immensely effective in dealing with many acute conditions of trauma caused by accidents or case of sudden onset of physiological disequilibrium.. Health and culture are very much connected with ecology. The traditional health care system and treatment are based on their deep observation and understanding of nature and environment. In the present paper an attempt has been made to study the interaction between traditional and modern system of medicine among Saharia - a primitive tribe of Rajasthan. Various approaches have been used to collect the data. It has been observed that in addition to the magico-religious method of treatment, the Saharia also follow allopathic system of medicines. In the past the Saharia used to consult only spiritual doctor (janteyar) for treatment of various illnesses. But now, with the advancement in science and technology faith in supernatural concept is on decline and the said tribe have developed faith in allopathic doctors also. Saharia who live in interior areas mainly practice the traditional medical system. It has been observed that in some villages different treatment (spiritual, herbal and allopathic) go side by side and tribal have equal faith in all the treatment. They don't give preference to any particular method of treatment. Few suggestions have also been made for improving the health status of the Saharia.