TRAMIL : Call for Volunteers to conduct an ethnopharmacological investigation

Initiated in 1984 in Haiti, the Tramil “Traditional Medicine in the Islands” is an applied research program on popular medicinal practices in the Caribbean Basin. It brings together experts in the field of botany, ethno-pharmacology, medicine, phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology, as well as health workers. Its goal is to scientifically validate traditional uses of medicinal plants and therefore, to promote their use in the treatment of diseases.

The methodology of this program is based on ethno-pharmacology surveys of populations of Caribbean basin. Upstream, a list of the most common diseases is established in collaboration with health actors. Once this list is completed, some interviews are conducted among the population in order to identify the most commonly used medicinal plants for treating these diseases. If a species is cited in more than 20% of treatments, it is called “significant and Tramil experts will try to scientifically validate its uses. If so, the plant and its uses will enrich the work of “Pharmacopoeia Caribbean” published by Tramil, as well as the data bank Tramilothèque managed by the Université Antilles Guyane.

Solicited by Tramil, the association wants to achieve this ethno pharmacological investigation in St. Barthelemy where the use of plants for medicinal purposes has long been a reality. Apart from the contribution to the Tramil network, this survey is an essential work to preserve intangible heritage of St. Barts.

To conduct this investigation, we need volunteers. Their mission? conduct the survey among the population. The adventure tempts you? Contact Helene Bernier 06 90 63 46 09 or by mail to: stbarthessentiel@yahoo.fr