PARTICIPATORY RESEARCH
Introduction
Traditional medicine is deeply embedded in the cultural and historical practices of many
communities globally, embodying the wisdom and knowledge passed down through
generations. However, its survival is increasingly threatened, particularly in African societies
where this knowledge has traditionally been transmitted orally. Younger generations are losing
interest, and elders are passing away before they can share their valuable knowledge.
While academia offers reliable information on the safe use of certain plants, this knowledge
often remains limited to academic circles. The growing global demand for traditional medicine
highlights the urgent need to integrate it into modern healthcare systems. This integration
requires cross-sector collaboration. Participatory research plays a key role in this process by
fostering a collaborative approach where a multidisciplinary team actively engages and co-
creates knowledge with various stakeholders, including traditional healers, researchers,
community members, healthcare professionals, and policymakers..
Introduction
Traditional medicine is deeply rooted in the cultural and historical practices of many communities around the world. It reflects the wisdom and knowledge that has been passed down through generations. Yet, its continuity faces challenges as younger generations lose interest and elders pass away before sharing their knowledge. While academia has reliable information on safe plant use, it often remains confined to scholarly circles. Integrating traditional medicine into healthcare requires collaboration across sectors. Participatory research plays a crucial role in integrating traditional medicine into healthcare systems. This collaborative approach involves active engagement and co-creation of knowledge among various stakeholders, including traditional healers, researchers, community members, and policymakers.
METHODS AND TOOLS
The project will employ a combination of epidemiological, ethnobotanical, and socio-cultural
research methods to explore the dynamics and interconnections involved in the transmission of
contemporary knowledge within the field of Traditional Medicine (TM). The epidemiological
approach will involve database research and fieldwork to identify the most common and
significant diseases, their distribution patterns, and how Traditional Medicine is utilized in
managing these diseases in selected areas. This will be complemented by ethnobotanical
research, including literature reviews and database analysis, as well as participatory fieldwork
(such as photo voice) to gather insights from local communities. The aim is to compile a
comprehensive list of medicinal plants used to treat common diseases and document the
relevant methods of application within these communities.
In addition, socio-cultural and historical aspects of Traditional Medicine will be examined
through literature reviews and participatory qualitative methods, including audio-visual tools.
This will involve exploring gender-specific, legal, economic, and spiritual dimensions of TM. To
support these efforts, (group) interviews, media content analysis, and social media surveys will
also be incorporated as part of the overall research methodology.
The project will combine epidemiology, ethnobotanical and socio-cultural research to analyze underlying dynamics and interrelations of contemporary knowledge transmission in the field of TM.
By an epidemiological approach (database research, fieldwork), most common and threatening health problems are identified for selected areas. Combined with ethnobotanical (literature- and database) research and participatory fieldwork (photovoice to include communities) we will bring out a synthesized list of medicinal plants used in the management of common ailment in the selected communities. A co-developed list of criteria (ensuring sustainable, safe and efficient use) will lead to a selection of suitable plants and relevant applications.
With literature search and participatory qualitative methods (incl. audio-visual), socio-cultural and historic contextualization of TM will be achieved, including gender specific, legal, economic, and spiritual aspects. (Group-) interviews, media content analysis and social media survey will complement our methodological tools.