International Journal of Humanities and Social Science Research

Authors
Manisha Dubey

Abstract
The practice of folk medicine and its faith have always been an integral part of Indian culture since long back. The vast majority of people in rural areas, particularly dominated by tribes, rely heavily on folk medicines and its adherents are also in urban areas. According to 2011census 20.3% of state’s population is tribes and it is rank first in India. It is also reported highest in Jhabua district with 86.8% followed by Barwani, Dindori and Mandla. The study focuses on probable causes of diseases and procedure of treatment. Wrath of Gods, mischief of evil spirits and magic of human being are regarded as the main causes of diseases which also forms the basis of folk medicine. It has its own diagnostic techniques which lean heavily on foretelling that is divination. Treatment is based upon the removal of causative factor through appeasing Gods, exorcism (deliverance from evil spirits) counter magic, use of charms and amulets (Tabeej) Jharafuki and of course some herbal preparations. The study also focuses on the health care delivery through folk medicines in tribal of Patalkot, district Chhindwara.