Mhadu Ramji Dunde - Session 01

AR-029-5-1

(00:00:00) The interviewee reflects on his childhood and explains how he learned vanaspati (herbal) medicine, receiving training from another Vaidu based in Gujarat. (00:06:51) He outlines his methods for diagnosing diseases. (00:10:15) He discusses medicinal herbs used to treat paralysis and provides detailed information on kidney stones, including their symptoms. (00:16:20) He explains the menstrual cycle of women in relation to the phases of the moon, naming specific medicines and identifying the exact parts of plants used in their preparation. (00:19:40) He describes the correct methods for consuming the medicines and guidelines for their storage. (00:21:04) He explains medicines prepared for treating arthritis, fever, and jaundice. (00:26:36) He describes how he examines and treats both human patients and livestock. (00:30:38) He discusses medicines he prepares for a range of illnesses. (00:32:00) He explains natural birth control medicines prepared from medicinal plant roots for both humans and animals. (00:36:52) He recounts the places he visited to share knowledge of medicinal herbs, including being interviewed in Pune and attending training programs in Jawhar, Silvasa, and Bhorda. (00:42:00) He describes the regions from which patients travel to seek his treatment, such as Thane. (00:45:11) He provides information on herbal medicines used to treat seizures. (00:48:55) He explains how he stores medicinal herbs, how he cultivates them around his house for easy access, and mentions their local names. (00:53:11) He describes the forms in which medicines are administered, such as powders and decoctions. (00:55:40) He compares urban and rural diets and explains how changing food habits have contributed to obesity, high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes. (01:02:00) He shares an experience of treating a young girl with tuberculosis who had been abandoned by her family. (01:11:24) He explains dosage methods, necessary precautions, and the importance of maintaining a strict diet while taking the medicines. (01:15:10) He discusses the fees he charges for the services he provides. (01:21:16) He explains how he is passing on his knowledge to his daughters and grandchildren, teaching them how to identify and prepare medicines and follow the required rituals for their effectiveness.

18-07-2025

Oral History Interviews of Vaidu