Traditional practices of using various medicinal plants during postnatal care in Chitrakoot district

Abstract

Chitrakoot district, a remote area located in the Bundelkhand region of Uttar Pradesh has very strong local health traditions in which plants play a key role. The region has well developed indigenous practices for taking care of mother and child right after the delivery. There are traditional delicacies with medicinal value and herbal formulations meant for oral and external applications that are exclusively used for postnatal care of mother and child. These health practices are on decline. The present study highlights the potential of traditional methods of postnatal care and the need for their documentation. These practices if integrated with modern healthcare system could elevate the health status of thousands of ladies and their newborns.