Peacock parts used for medicinal purposes, reveals WWF study
The practice is being followed by quacks and hospitals, including those funded by the ministry of AYUSH, in states like Delhi, Gujarat and Rajasthan.
A study by TRAFFIC, an arm of World Wildlife Fund (WWF), recently found that at least three systems of traditional medicine in India - Siddha, Ayurveda and Unani - prescribe peacock feather and other parts in various potions.
The practice is being followed by quacks and hospitals, including those funded by the ministry of AYUSH, in states like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Delhi Gujarat and Rajasthan.
The Indian blue peafowl (Pavo Cristatus) has considerably reduced in numbers over the years thanks to destruction of their habitats by farmers protecting their crops and poachers. The beautiful bird with brilliant iridescent coloured feathers was numbered at about 15 lakh in a study in 2007.
PEACOCK FEATHER ASH USED TO CURE MORNING SICKNESS
However, isolated studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that its population has come down to only a few lakh. While domestic trade in the naturally shed tail feathers collected outside protected areas is allowed, export of these is prohibited.
The study says, "Bhasma and churnam (peacock feather ash) were sold in many siddha drug stores in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Delhi Gujarat and Rajasthan, and is used to cure hiccups, vomiting and morning sickness among other illnesses)."
"The Rebari community in Rajasthan use ash of peafowl feather mixed with honey to cure asthma, whereas ash of peafowl feathers mixed with coconut oil is used for headache. One bolus with cow milk daily early in the Mail Today on Monday reported about rampant killing of the bird. morning is given for five days to get male child."
PEAFOWL GHEE OPENLY SOLD BY DRUG MAKERS
Legs and fat of peafowl are also fairly popular and advised under medicinal systems, the report points out. "TRAFFIC India investigators were able to spot Narikuravar tribals selling peafowl oil/ghee at popular markets, bus stands, temples and tourist spots in different towns of Tamil Nadu," it read.
"A few siddha drug makers also sell peafowl ghee openly in their shops and even an original bill is issued by them. Some village physicians in Trichy, Madurai and Theni buy peafowl legs from the tribals and dry the legs."
"They then powder the dried legs and add it to hot sesame oil and subscribe it for joint pains and fractures. The carcasses are displayed to carry conviction with the buyers about the genuineness of the product," it further read.
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