Role of Indigenous Knowledge in the Siddi Health System: An Interaction of Tradition, Spirituality, and Medicine

Abstract

India's population is diverse and multifaceted, encompassing various cultures and communities. Among them, the Afro-Indian Siddis stand out as one of the country's unique and distinct tribes, currently present in various states including Gujarat, Goa, Daman & Diu, Maharashtra, Bengal, Telangana, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka. The health of individuals and communities is profoundly shaped by social and cultural factors intricately woven into the fabric of daily life. To understand the ethno-medical practices of any group or community, it is essential to consider healthcare's social and environmental dimensions, including ecology, culture, economic conditions, and the history of diaspora. By integrating indigenous knowledge with scientific approaches, India aims to create a more holistic health system that addresses the needs of the present, preserves ecological balance, and promotes long-term sustainability. This study explores the health beliefs, traditional healthcare practices, medicinal knowledge, and cultural shades of the Siddi community in India as well as the challenges faced by the community in their well-being.