Exploring ethnobiological classifications for novel alternative medicine: A case study of Cardiospermnm halicacabum L. ('Modakathon', Balloon Vine) as a traditional herb for treating rheumatoid arthritis

摘要

We suggest a new approach that utilizes tribal classifications and DNA barcoding in the exploration for remedies lo common ailments, such as arthritis which is a leading cause of disability in adults all over the world. Medical research and consequently pharmaceutical companies have not been able to ci me Ibi ard with a specific drug for rheumatoid arthritis. Our survey of the Inilii of Tamil Nadu. In ha rev aled a complex taxonomy of several cthnolaxa for a plant called "Modakathon" or 'balloon vinc' (Cardiospermum lialicacabum L. sensu lato), which lias many associated utilities, including a rcnedy I r joint pain In many cultures this plant is harvested in backyards lor both medicinal and find vali . In fact, it pixnidcs an income supplement forsome families from impoverished communities ol third sorld countries. I his review bridges centuries ol aboriginal knowledge with a review, of modern science order to SCIAC llie needs of modern society fur a cure lo a common ailment such as rhcumatt d arthritis.