PARTICIPATORY RESEARCH
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 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.