Ethnomedicinal practices often utilize minerals due to their therapeutic properties, cultural significance, and availability in traditional healing systems. Below is a list of ethnomedicinally significant minerals, their compositions, and their traditional uses:
.jpg)
1. Calcium (Ca) – (CaCO₃, CaSO₄·2H₂O)
– Sources: Limestone (CaCO₃), Gypsum (CaSO₄·2H₂O), Eggshells, Coral.
– Ethnomedicinal Uses:
– Bone and teeth strengthening.
– Antacid for stomach ailments.
– Used in Ayurveda (Shankha Bhasma – conch shell ash) for digestive disorders.
2. Iron (Fe) – (Fe₂O₃, FeS₂)
– Sources: Hematite (Fe₂O₃), Pyrite (FeS₂).
– Ethnomedicinal Uses:
– Treatment of anemia and fatigue.
– Used in Siddha medicine as *Lauha Bhasma* (iron ash) for blood purification.
3. Zinc (Zn) – (ZnO, ZnS)
– Sources: Zincite (ZnO), Sphalerite (ZnS).
– Ethnomedicinal Uses:
– Wound healing and skin .jpg)
eases.
– Used in Unani medicine (*Yasad Bhasma*) for diabetes and immunity.
4. Magnesium (Mg) – (MgSO₄·7H₂O, MgCO₃)
– Sources: Epsom salt (MgSO₄·7H₂O), Magnesite (MgCO₃).
– Ethnomedicinal Uses:
– Muscle relaxation and laxative.
– Traditional remedy for constipation and stress.
5. Sulfur (S) – (S⁸)
– Sources: Native sulfur, volcanic deposits.
– Ethnomedicinal Uses:
– Skin disorders like eczema and scabies.
– Detoxification in Ayurveda (*Gandhaka Rasayana*).
6. Silica (SiO₂)
– Sources: Quartz, Sand, Bamboo silica.
– Ethnomedicinal Uses:
– Strengthening bones and hair.
– Used in Chinese