Water scarcity poses a significant challenge globally,with South Africa exemplifying the severe socio-economic and environmental impacts of limited water access.Despite advances in modern water management systems,the ...Water scarcity poses a significant challenge globally,with South Africa exemplifying the severe socio-economic and environmental impacts of limited water access.Despite advances in modern water management systems,the integration of indigenous knowledge(IK)into formal frameworks remains underutilized.This study systematically reviews the role of indigenous water conservation practices in South Africa,analyzing over 50 high-quality sources using the PRISMA methodology.The findings highlight the effectiveness of IK in addressing water scarcity through techniques such as rainwater harvesting,terracing,and wetland management,which are low-cost,environmentally sustainable,and deeply rooted in cultural practices.Indigenous methods also enhance climate resilience by enabling communities to adapt to droughts and floods through practices such as weather prediction and adaptive farming techniques.Furthermore,these practices foster social inclusivity and community empowerment,ensuring equitable water access and intergenerational knowledge transfer.The study underscores the potential of integrating IK with modern water technologies to create holistic solutions that are scalable,sustainable,and aligned with South Africa’s goal of achieving water security by 2030.Policy recommendations emphasize the need for institutional support,data collection,and financial incentives to sustain and mainstream indigenous approaches.By bridging the gap between traditional and contemporary systems,this research provides a roadmap for leveraging diverse knowledge systems to address water scarcity and build resilient communities.展开更多
Global warming has led to the frequent occurrence of extreme climatic events(ECEs)in the ecologically frag ile Qinghai-Xizang Plateau.Rural households face strong barriers in adaption,and food production is seriously ...Global warming has led to the frequent occurrence of extreme climatic events(ECEs)in the ecologically frag ile Qinghai-Xizang Plateau.Rural households face strong barriers in adaption,and food production is seriously threatened.Current methods for increasing household adaptability take a holistic point of view,but do not ac curately identify groups experiencing different adaptive barriers.To better identify different barriers,this paper examines natural,economic,cognitive,and technical barriers.A total of 17 indicators were selected to com prehensively evaluate the degree of barriers to crops adaptation in response to ECEs.Key factors were further analyzed to identify paths to break down the barriers.The results showed the following.(1)Natural barriers were present at the highest degree,economic barriers appear to be smallest,and the overall barriers were bi ased towards the lower quartile.10.82%of the households with the highest barriers.(2)67.38%of households report taking adaptive measures in crops production.The increase of the barriers leads to an increase and then a decrease in the possibility of adaptive behavior.(3)Addressing technical barriers is key to rapidly increasing household adaptive behavior in response to ECEs.The study provides recommendations for local governments to improve household adaptation behavior from two perspectives:short-term and long-term optimization path ways.This study can help governments quickly locate households with different classes of barriers,and propose more targeted adaptation policies.The ultimate goal is to ensure the sustainability of crops production and the well-being of households in northeastern part of the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau.展开更多
The study was aimed to examine the need of incorporating traditional weather forecasting renowned indigenous knowledge system (IKS) into modern weather forecasting methods to be used for planning farming activities. I...The study was aimed to examine the need of incorporating traditional weather forecasting renowned indigenous knowledge system (IKS) into modern weather forecasting methods to be used for planning farming activities. In addition, not only gap that is not infused by current weather forecasting system with their advanced studies to understand why it is incorporated into existing technical frameworks was regarded, but also the limitation of advanced weather forecasting approach and strength to be elicited by indigenous knowledge system are crucial. Perspicuously, forms and onsite interrogates have been conducted to assess people’s beliefs, understanding, and attitudes on the indigenous knowledge system significance on weather forecasting. Therefore, atmospheric and biological conditions, astronomic, as well as relief characteristics were used to predict the weather over short and long periods. Usually, in assessing weather conditions, the conduct of animals and insects were listed as essential. Obviously, in order to predict weather particularly from rain within about short period of time, astronomical characteristics were used. Commonly, there are few peers who know conventional weather prediction approaches. This lowers the reliability of conventional weather prediction. The findings revealed some variables that impact meteorological inaccuracy by scientific methods and help to recognize and evaluate the gap that current meteorological technologies do not achieve and new particulars anticipated to be filled with conventional methods to attain accurate weather prediction. Additionally, the study indicated that both modern and conventional processes have certain positive and limitations, which means that they can be coupled to generate more accurate weather prediction reports for end users.展开更多
Wild edible plants have played a vital role in supplementing the diet of people in developing countries. People in Sedie Muja District, South Gondar Zone, consume different parts of wild plants. This study was done in...Wild edible plants have played a vital role in supplementing the diet of people in developing countries. People in Sedie Muja District, South Gondar Zone, consume different parts of wild plants. This study was done in Sedie Muja District, South Gondar Zone to deal with ethnobotanical uses of selected wild edible plants. Field surveys were carried out in 2018-2019. Ethnobotanical data were collected from 84 respondents using semi-structured interview, guided field walk, market survey and field observations. Preference ranking, direct matrix ranking and informant consensus with buyers, sellers, cookers and elderly people of the user groups were used for data analysis. A total of 33 wild edible plants were documented. Of these families, Moraceae, Fabaceae and Solanaceae were the most dominant families that account 3 (11.5%) species each. Fruits are the most edible parts compared to the other edible plant parts that account 18 (54.5%). These species can be promoted for large-scale cultivation and marketing for the benefit of the local communities.展开更多
The objectives of this study were to demonstrate ethno-scientific elicitation techniques in retrieving indigenous knowledge at village-level, and to document the indigenous soil classification systems of different eth...The objectives of this study were to demonstrate ethno-scientific elicitation techniques in retrieving indigenous knowledge at village-level, and to document the indigenous soil classification systems of different ethnic groups in Luang Prabang province in the Lao PDR. The study area comprised three villages – Nambo, Huaymaha and Thapo, in the Phonxay district of Luang Prabang province. Three ethnic groups were covered by the study – Hmong, Khmu and Lao Loum. All three ethnic groups used soil color as main criteria for soil classification. However, even within the same ethnic group, sometimes different villages have differences in the way they classify soils; this was apparent for the Hmong ethnic group in the villages of Huaymaha and Nambo. A significant difference of the Lao Loum ethnic group from the other two, was the emphasis used in classifying soil types according to their water holding capabilities. In contrast, the Khmu and Hmong classified many soil types in relation to their rock content (‘with rock’ or ‘pure rock’ sometimesbeing used). The results of the study suggest that the ethnic groups classify the soils in relation to their potential for different types of agricultural production.展开更多
This study deals with the perceptions of indigenous knowledge in the field of conservation and the impact of climate change on biodiversity in the peripheral villages of the Bouba-Ndjidda National Park (PNBN), Departm...This study deals with the perceptions of indigenous knowledge in the field of conservation and the impact of climate change on biodiversity in the peripheral villages of the Bouba-Ndjidda National Park (PNBN), Department of Mayo-Rey, Cameroon. To this end, 23 out of 70 villages in the study area were selected, for a sample of 368 households surveyed through a questionnaire addressed to the heads of households. Data collection took place from August 27 to December 22, 2022. The results reveal that 70.7% of the population living near the PNBN practice agriculture as their main income-generating activity, followed by livestock (23.3%) and trade (6%). Knowledge in the field of the conservation of natural resources is rooted in occultism through rituals and sacrifices (99.50%) offered to the geniuses of nature and prohibitions on the felling of trees and sacred animals (13.00%). The populations perceive climate change through the variation of the seasons (97.60%), the increase in temperature (84.80%), the reduction in the duration of the rainy seasons (54.60%), the drop in agricultural yield (84.80%) and floods (74.70%). The consequence of these changes on wildlife is the disappearance of animal species such as the Rhinoceros, the Wild Dog, the Cheetah and the Ostrich. In order to cope with climate change, the natives have developed strategies such as the adoption of early crop varieties (maize, millet, soybeans, etc.), the reorganization of the agricultural calendar, the practice of reforestation, extension of field surfaces, the cessation of excessive deforestation and uncontrolled bush fires, the construction of fired brick houses, the practice of irrigation, seasonal migration and occultism. This indigenous knowledge is a perfect adaptation to climate change and makes it possible to better take into account the vision of local populations in the conservation of biodiversity.展开更多
Indigenous cultures prescribed a means of maximizing the benefits they produced and enjoyed in their relationship with each other and the environment-based on their understanding of the nature of existence and how to ...Indigenous cultures prescribed a means of maximizing the benefits they produced and enjoyed in their relationship with each other and the environment-based on their understanding of the nature of existence and how to live in harmony with the forces shaping the nature of existence.The emergence of civilization introduced the claim that rational abilities superseded indigenous knowledge.This was followed by positivism and the claim that knowledge passed through three stages:mythological,philosophical,and scientific.This impacted indigenous cultures in ways that reached a height when postcolonial development experts convinced national leaders that progress required adopting advances in science.A failure to modernize was regarded as holding back progress.With the development paradigm now regarded as inadequate for achieving its goals and with the rise of the sustainability discourse,there is appreciation for indigenous knowledge.This article describes an indigenous cultural knowledge system that reflects the insight and wisdom of the world’s most respected scientific and philosophical traditions.The beliefs of the Bodo people of Northeast India are used as an example of an indigenous worldview that portrays insight proven to have value that is comparable to the natural sciences,plus theories of natural law and political philosophy.展开更多
Community members at village level depend on weather information to plan and make decision on livelihood options.The livelihood options and well-being of rural smallholder farmers,pastoralists and fishers in Tanzania ...Community members at village level depend on weather information to plan and make decision on livelihood options.The livelihood options and well-being of rural smallholder farmers,pastoralists and fishers in Tanzania are facing ever increasing extreme weather events especially prolonged droughts,temperature rise and floods.This paper investigates traditional indicators which are useful for planning and decision making among farmers,pastoralists and fishers of Lushoto and Pangani in Tanga Region as well as Bagamoyo and Chalinze in Coast Region.Descriptive research method was employed to investigate how traditional indicators are useful for planning during long term(seasonal)and decision making during short term forecasting.Primary data were collected from Indigenous Knowledge(IK)teams,community members and leaders of Local Government Authority.Secondary data were obtained from different sources such as Gray literature,published journals,National Library,District Offices and Regional Officers were the highly consulted sources.Focus Group Discussion,Field Observation,transect walks and Key Informant interviews were the applied methods to systematically document behaviour of local indicators from one month to the next.During Focus Group in each District,elderly farmers,pastoralists and fishers were the sources of primary data.They shared experience on local indicators which they have been observing before the start of the season for the period of 30 years ago.Observation was conducted by IK teams who reported the indicators’behaviour and seasonal events every after 14 days.Quantitative data were coded to Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 20(SPSS 20)tool and analysed using descriptive statistics to show the frequencies of rainfall,showers and drought events which were recorded during IK meetings and those from TMA.Thematic data analysis method integrated hermeneutics approach in analysing data from IK meeting minutes,FGD and KII.Long term forecast indicators successfully informed us on the procedures that lead into determining seasons for either good or poor distribution of rainfall in the next season.Short term traditional indicators were useful for decision making within a season.As long as seasons behave differently from one year to the next,the authors recommend observing indicators for several years and determine how indicators behave when the scientific seasonal outlooks are below normal,normal or above normal.展开更多
This study explores the epistemic imperative to decolonize African education systems by centering indigenous philosophies such as Ubuntu and introducing the Ubuntu Pedagogy as a pedagogical model.Ubuntu pedagogy trans...This study explores the epistemic imperative to decolonize African education systems by centering indigenous philosophies such as Ubuntu and introducing the Ubuntu Pedagogy as a pedagogical model.Ubuntu pedagogy transforms teacher-learner relationships,it provides a replicable model for relational learning,community partnerships,and reassert the dignity of indigenous epistemologies.The paper examines how language,knowledge production,and pedagogy can be restructured to reflect African epistemologies and educational sovereignty.This research also explores the relationship between mother tongue instruction and cognitive access to learning.Through a qualitative literature analysis of case studies and African scholarly discourse,this paper highlights the continued marginalization of indigenous knowledge systems and the need to embed culturally relevant teaching methodologies.The findings support the broader question of whether there exists an epistemological base for knowledge independence or production within African and Afro-Diasporic contexts,revealing culturally coherent frameworks of learning that resist colonial dominance and an exploration of reclaiming African indigenous knowledge systems for educational and cultural sovereignty.展开更多
Studying the interactions and relationships between humans and animals is known as ethnozoology.Indigenous medicine that is used to prevent,diagnose,and cure physical and mental disorders is known as traditional medic...Studying the interactions and relationships between humans and animals is known as ethnozoology.Indigenous medicine that is used to prevent,diagnose,and cure physical and mental disorders is known as traditional medicine.The understanding of how various animal materials are used in conventional medicine by different ethnic communities is undocumented and largely passed through oral communication from generation to generation.Traditional medicine is the primary source of healthcare for many ethnic tribes in Ethiopia.Approximately 80%of Ethiopians rely on traditional medicine to cure a variety of human conditions.However,because they are passed down orally from generation to generation,this indigenous medical practice is being disregarded and is still disappearing as a result of inadequate documentation.Ethiopia is a land of diversity,with a wide variety of fauna and ethnic groups,each of whom uses and manipulates medicinal animals in a unique way to treat a range of human illnesses.The main participants in the curative component of traditional medicine practice are traditional healers,who go by various names in different regions of the nation.In Ethiopia,though indigenous societies medicinally used animal species for millennia,they have given little attention to their conservation.Therefore,documentation of traditional medicinal animals and indigenous healing practices of Ethiopian cultures are very important to preserve the country’s resources.展开更多
This article analyzes in‐depth the development trajectory of the innovation systems(IS)in the case of Namibia.The research data consists of documents,interviews and studies related to IS development in Namibia from t...This article analyzes in‐depth the development trajectory of the innovation systems(IS)in the case of Namibia.The research data consists of documents,interviews and studies related to IS development in Namibia from the 1990s until early 2016.The case study highlights the spatiotemporal challenges of creating an IS in a developing country with limited STI resources and the potential mismatch between related strategies and practices.IS is a broad framework that identifies and maps potential relevant actors for innovation development but it does not necessary enhance interactions between the actors of IS.For developing countries,the doing‐using‐interacting mode of innovation fits better when the aim is to integrate indigenous knowledge(IK)into an IS.An IK‐included IS can facilitate participatory development processes,foster socioeconomic resilience of local communities and enhance the comparative advantage of a developing country.展开更多
Introduction:F isheries management is often data-limited,and conducted at spatial scales that are too large to address the needs of Indigenous peoples,whose cultures depend upon the local availability of marine resour...Introduction:F isheries management is often data-limited,and conducted at spatial scales that are too large to address the needs of Indigenous peoples,whose cultures depend upon the local availability of marine resources.Outcomes:We combined Indigenous ecological knowledge with simulation modelling to inform modern fishery management.Semi-structured interviews with Indigenous fishers in coastal British Columbia,Canada,uncovered severe declines in the abundance and catches of Dungeness crab(Cancer magister)since the 1990s.We modelled the current probability of"successful"crab harvesting trips-as defined by expectations from past catches by Indigenous fishers-using fishery-independent data from nine sites.These probabilities were very low(<20%)for all sites except one.Discussion:Our study highlights that local depletions,which Indigenous fishers attribute to commercial and recreational fisheries,have been widespread and undetected by federal managers who manage Dungeness crab at regional scales without fishery-independent data.Further,local depletions impacted the ability of Indigenous fishers to access traditional foods.Conclusion:Integrating Indigenous knowledge with scientific research is crucial to inform locally-relevant fisheries management and conservation.展开更多
Rural communities in Kenya largely depend on plant resources for their livelihood.The utilization of these resources depends on the availability of plant resources and the level of knowledge of the residents.We conduc...Rural communities in Kenya largely depend on plant resources for their livelihood.The utilization of these resources depends on the availability of plant resources and the level of knowledge of the residents.We conducted an ethnobotanical study in Tharaka-Nithi County in Kenya to determine the knowledge and utilization of various plant species by the local communities.The study was conducted in four major administrative regions from June 2018 to February 2019,involving interview schedules using semi-structured open-ended questionnaires and guided field collections with 48 informants.A total of 214 plant species distributed in 73 families and 169 genera with 616 Use Reports(URs)were documented.Fabaceae was the highest family cited by the informants(31 species)followed by Lamiaceae and Euphorbiaceae(each with 11 species).Trees(49%)and shrubs(32%)were the top life forms of the plants frequently utilized by the local residents.The general plant uses reported were medicinal,food,fodder,construction,fuel,pesticidal,religious,live fencing,and making crafts.Zanthoxylum gilletii,Prunus africana,and Solanum incanum were found to be highly valued by the local communities.Plant utilization as food and medicinal uses against snake-bite related problems had the highest Informant Consensus Factor(ICF).Only 29(13.6%)of the species reported had their status assessed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature(IUCN).Conservation measures,alongside awareness creation in this region,are highly recommended for the species endemic to the region,highly depended on by the community,and those threatened according to IUCN standards.展开更多
The cultural universe is sometimes confusing,surprising and murky,so many cultural maps get drawn,discussed and envisioned.A study was undertaken around Mabira Forest Reserve in central Uganda to identify the trees an...The cultural universe is sometimes confusing,surprising and murky,so many cultural maps get drawn,discussed and envisioned.A study was undertaken around Mabira Forest Reserve in central Uganda to identify the trees and shrubs culturally managed on-farm,assess the cultural practices of forest and tree system management and determine the relationship between farmer gender and forest and tree system management.We engaged 203 farmers in focus group discussions and semi-structured interviews to collect data.Qualitative data were jointly evaluated with farmers;quantitative data were analyzed in SPSS 20.0.The results showed a high likelihood for involvement of local people in tree or forest management for economic gain,as timber and fast-growing species were highly ranked.Food and medicinal species were also regarded as important,suggesting high prospects of integrating them into the local farming system or protecting them in the forest.Numerous cultural practices(including rituals,trenching,bark slashing,ring barking,spot weeding and use of organic manure and pesticides)of forest and tree system management were acknowledged.However,their knowledge was mixed and unclear about distinct cultural and supportive arrangements for natural forest and tree restoration.While gender was not a significant cultural attribute for knowledge of the forest and allied tree system management,age substantially affected farmer propensity for various timber products.Also farmer’s family size influenced the collection of tree wildings and fodder.We encourage considering gender disparities and livelihood needs including income,during selection of cultural practices for forest and tree restoration.展开更多
Jatropha curcas(L)has gained popularity as a biodiesel plant to serve as an alternative fuel source and generate income to small landholders.From the Bioenergy policy of Ghana,the government is collaborating with the ...Jatropha curcas(L)has gained popularity as a biodiesel plant to serve as an alternative fuel source and generate income to small landholders.From the Bioenergy policy of Ghana,the government is collaborating with the private sector to develop about one million hectares of Jatropha plantation throughout the country.The objective of this study was to assess the importance which farmers give to,Jcurcas compared with other indigenous tree species and identify the indigenous uses and niches of J.curcas in Ghana.Three farming communities were selected from each of the ten regions.A total of six hundred farmers,consisting of twenty farmers from each community were selected at random and interviewed with a semi-structured questionnaire.Results revealed that J curcas was identified as one of the most important tree species in nine out of the ten regions.Majority(56%)of the respondents indicated that it is mainly used for medicinal purpose and mostly found around homesteads.However.the study observed that,research attention is needed on integration into agricultural lands,germplasm collection and genetic improvement.These findings will help boost production ofJ.curcas in Ghana for the nation to realize her dream of alternative fuel from the plant.展开更多
This study is an attempt to point out the different types of natural hazards in Sudur Paschim province of Nepal where environmental degradation processes such as deforestation,desertification,biodiversity loss,soil cr...This study is an attempt to point out the different types of natural hazards in Sudur Paschim province of Nepal where environmental degradation processes such as deforestation,desertification,biodiversity loss,soil crisp and watershed degradation are rising trends.Using participatory method multi hazard prone areas were identified with type and intensity.Multi criteria evaluation method was applied to prioritize replicable actions with location-specific innovative practices and their legitimization for integrating local and indigenous knowledge into mainstream education,science and policy with a view to incorporate local and indigenous knowledge as live science in disaster and climate change education.Findings of the study reveal that varieties of natural hazards in combination with social factors such as poverty,conflict and inequality have resulted frequent disasters and social vulnerabilities in many parts of the province.Traditionally,indigenous and local people have responded threats of multi hazards by using their traditional knowledge and skills which has evolved over generations,and continue to adapt to future changes.These traditional,often faith-based,beliefs and practices were found to use as the key to their resilience in the face of natural hazards.However,many communities have been lost their knowledge as the elderly die without transferring it to younger members.Behind this proper educational policy and strategic development plans have not been implemented to cope local/indigenous knowledge into practices.Findings of the study indicate that indigenous and local knowledge is a precious province resource that can support the process of disaster prevention,preparedness and response in cost-effective disaster risk reduction.Therefore,policy framework has to prime focus to integrate indigenous and local knowledge,wisdom and skills into mainstream educational programs in order to transfer science into policy and education(words)into practice.展开更多
This study explores the mathematical practices embedded in the cultural traditions of the Tharu community, with a focus on their counting systems, measuring techniques, and modeling patterns. Through ethnographic obse...This study explores the mathematical practices embedded in the cultural traditions of the Tharu community, with a focus on their counting systems, measuring techniques, and modeling patterns. Through ethnographic observations and field interviews, the research reveals how the Tharu people employ a base-20 counting system influenced by the Nepali numbering system and use physical objects for arithmetic operations. Their traditional measuring techniques rely on body-referenced units such as the Haat (hand) and Anguli (finger) for length, along with culturally specific units like the Muthi and Lota for volume. Additionally, the study examines the geometric patterns found in Tharu crafts, highlighting the community’s application of symmetry and ratios. The findings illustrate the significance of these ethnomathematical practices in the daily life of the Tharu people, offering insight into how indigenous mathematical knowledge can enrich the broader understanding of mathematics education. This research contributes to the field of ethnomathematics by documenting and analyzing the ways in which cultural groups integrate mathematical concepts to solve practical problems and preserve their heritage.展开更多
On October 14,2023,a symposium themed“The Chinese Path to Modernization and the Promotion of Free and Comprehensive Human Development”was held in Changchun,Jilin Province,China.More than fifty experts,scholars,and r...On October 14,2023,a symposium themed“The Chinese Path to Modernization and the Promotion of Free and Comprehensive Human Development”was held in Changchun,Jilin Province,China.More than fifty experts,scholars,and researchers from national institutions and universities engaged in discussions and exchanges on human rights on the Chinese path to modernization,including the path,practice,knowledge systems,and civilization forms of human rights.This symposium played a significant role in advancing the construction of the disciplinary system,academic system,and discourse system of human rights in China.展开更多
Croton sylvaticus(C. sylvaticus) is widely used as herbal medicine by the indigenous people of tropical Africa. The potential of C. sylvaticus as herbal medicine,the phytochemistry and pharmacological properties of it...Croton sylvaticus(C. sylvaticus) is widely used as herbal medicine by the indigenous people of tropical Africa. The potential of C. sylvaticus as herbal medicine,the phytochemistry and pharmacological properties of its parts used as herbal medicines are reviewed. The extensive literature survey revealed that C. sylvaticus is traditionally used to treat or manage at least 24 human and animal diseases and ailments. The species is used as herbal medicine for diseases and ailments such as abdominal pains,boils,fever,inflammation,malaria,rheumatism,swellings and tuberculosis and as ethnoveterinary medicine. Multiple classes of phytochemicals such as alkaloids,anthraquinones,essential oils,flavonoids,lignan,phenolics,sterols,tannins and terpenoids have been isolated from the species. Scientific studies on C. sylvaticus indicate that it has a wide range of pharmacological activities which include antibacterial,antifungal,anti-inflammatory,antioxidant,larvicidal and effects on the central nervous system. Although studies have confirmed that C. sylvaticus has a wide range of bioactives,further research on the exact bioactive molecules and mechanisms of action are required.展开更多
Nootka rose (</span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Rosa nutkana </span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">C. Presl) and stinging nettle (</span>...Nootka rose (</span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Rosa nutkana </span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">C. Presl) and stinging nettle (</span></span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Urtica dioica </span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">L.</span><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">) have been traditionally used in the treatment of skin infection by Indigenous peoples of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. The main objective of this study was to examine the antibacterial efficacy of extracts of Nootka </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">rose and stinging nettle against the common pathogenic skin bacteria</span> </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Staphylococcus aureus</span></i><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">,</span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> Micrococcus luteus</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">, and </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Pseudomonas aeruginosa</span></i> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">using </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Indigenous science and standard methods of analysis. The Indigenous science method of plant extraction by steeping as advised by the Traditional Knowledge keeper</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> was performed to examine minimum inhibitory concentration </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">(MIC) </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">values and minimum bactericidal concentrations </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">(MBC) by serial dilution and bacterial population counts. </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Soxhlet extractions and Kirby Bauer disc sensitivity testing showed that Nootka rose </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">extracts possessed antibacterial effectiveness against all three bacterial species while stinging nettle extracts were effective against </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">M. luteus</span></i><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. Results for MIC and MBC indicated antibacterial activity against </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">M. luteus</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> and </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">S. aureus</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> for the </span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Nootka rose when using </span><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">full-strength solutions;all three bacterial species exhibited growth when undiluted stinging nettle treatments were used. When considering bacterial population counts for</span><b> </b><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">S. aureus,</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> results indicated</span><b> </b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">that only the Nootka rose treatment offered effective inhibition. Chemical analysis showed that alkaloid percentage was greater in the stinging nettle (0.17%) than </span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Nootka rose </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">(0.07%), while saponin percentage was greater in the </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Nootka rose </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">(0.87%) than stinging nettle (0.17%). Overall, </span><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Nootka rose showed a greater level of</span><b> </b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">antibacterial effectiveness than </span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">stinging nettle by Indigenous and Western scientific methods of plant extract preparation.展开更多
文摘Water scarcity poses a significant challenge globally,with South Africa exemplifying the severe socio-economic and environmental impacts of limited water access.Despite advances in modern water management systems,the integration of indigenous knowledge(IK)into formal frameworks remains underutilized.This study systematically reviews the role of indigenous water conservation practices in South Africa,analyzing over 50 high-quality sources using the PRISMA methodology.The findings highlight the effectiveness of IK in addressing water scarcity through techniques such as rainwater harvesting,terracing,and wetland management,which are low-cost,environmentally sustainable,and deeply rooted in cultural practices.Indigenous methods also enhance climate resilience by enabling communities to adapt to droughts and floods through practices such as weather prediction and adaptive farming techniques.Furthermore,these practices foster social inclusivity and community empowerment,ensuring equitable water access and intergenerational knowledge transfer.The study underscores the potential of integrating IK with modern water technologies to create holistic solutions that are scalable,sustainable,and aligned with South Africa’s goal of achieving water security by 2030.Policy recommendations emphasize the need for institutional support,data collection,and financial incentives to sustain and mainstream indigenous approaches.By bridging the gap between traditional and contemporary systems,this research provides a roadmap for leveraging diverse knowledge systems to address water scarcity and build resilient communities.
基金supported by the Second Scientific Expedition to the Qinghai‒Xizang Plateau(Grant No.2019QZKK0405-05)method-ological support from the State Key Program of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.72033005)is also appreciated greatly.
文摘Global warming has led to the frequent occurrence of extreme climatic events(ECEs)in the ecologically frag ile Qinghai-Xizang Plateau.Rural households face strong barriers in adaption,and food production is seriously threatened.Current methods for increasing household adaptability take a holistic point of view,but do not ac curately identify groups experiencing different adaptive barriers.To better identify different barriers,this paper examines natural,economic,cognitive,and technical barriers.A total of 17 indicators were selected to com prehensively evaluate the degree of barriers to crops adaptation in response to ECEs.Key factors were further analyzed to identify paths to break down the barriers.The results showed the following.(1)Natural barriers were present at the highest degree,economic barriers appear to be smallest,and the overall barriers were bi ased towards the lower quartile.10.82%of the households with the highest barriers.(2)67.38%of households report taking adaptive measures in crops production.The increase of the barriers leads to an increase and then a decrease in the possibility of adaptive behavior.(3)Addressing technical barriers is key to rapidly increasing household adaptive behavior in response to ECEs.The study provides recommendations for local governments to improve household adaptation behavior from two perspectives:short-term and long-term optimization path ways.This study can help governments quickly locate households with different classes of barriers,and propose more targeted adaptation policies.The ultimate goal is to ensure the sustainability of crops production and the well-being of households in northeastern part of the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau.
文摘The study was aimed to examine the need of incorporating traditional weather forecasting renowned indigenous knowledge system (IKS) into modern weather forecasting methods to be used for planning farming activities. In addition, not only gap that is not infused by current weather forecasting system with their advanced studies to understand why it is incorporated into existing technical frameworks was regarded, but also the limitation of advanced weather forecasting approach and strength to be elicited by indigenous knowledge system are crucial. Perspicuously, forms and onsite interrogates have been conducted to assess people’s beliefs, understanding, and attitudes on the indigenous knowledge system significance on weather forecasting. Therefore, atmospheric and biological conditions, astronomic, as well as relief characteristics were used to predict the weather over short and long periods. Usually, in assessing weather conditions, the conduct of animals and insects were listed as essential. Obviously, in order to predict weather particularly from rain within about short period of time, astronomical characteristics were used. Commonly, there are few peers who know conventional weather prediction approaches. This lowers the reliability of conventional weather prediction. The findings revealed some variables that impact meteorological inaccuracy by scientific methods and help to recognize and evaluate the gap that current meteorological technologies do not achieve and new particulars anticipated to be filled with conventional methods to attain accurate weather prediction. Additionally, the study indicated that both modern and conventional processes have certain positive and limitations, which means that they can be coupled to generate more accurate weather prediction reports for end users.
文摘Wild edible plants have played a vital role in supplementing the diet of people in developing countries. People in Sedie Muja District, South Gondar Zone, consume different parts of wild plants. This study was done in Sedie Muja District, South Gondar Zone to deal with ethnobotanical uses of selected wild edible plants. Field surveys were carried out in 2018-2019. Ethnobotanical data were collected from 84 respondents using semi-structured interview, guided field walk, market survey and field observations. Preference ranking, direct matrix ranking and informant consensus with buyers, sellers, cookers and elderly people of the user groups were used for data analysis. A total of 33 wild edible plants were documented. Of these families, Moraceae, Fabaceae and Solanaceae were the most dominant families that account 3 (11.5%) species each. Fruits are the most edible parts compared to the other edible plant parts that account 18 (54.5%). These species can be promoted for large-scale cultivation and marketing for the benefit of the local communities.
文摘The objectives of this study were to demonstrate ethno-scientific elicitation techniques in retrieving indigenous knowledge at village-level, and to document the indigenous soil classification systems of different ethnic groups in Luang Prabang province in the Lao PDR. The study area comprised three villages – Nambo, Huaymaha and Thapo, in the Phonxay district of Luang Prabang province. Three ethnic groups were covered by the study – Hmong, Khmu and Lao Loum. All three ethnic groups used soil color as main criteria for soil classification. However, even within the same ethnic group, sometimes different villages have differences in the way they classify soils; this was apparent for the Hmong ethnic group in the villages of Huaymaha and Nambo. A significant difference of the Lao Loum ethnic group from the other two, was the emphasis used in classifying soil types according to their water holding capabilities. In contrast, the Khmu and Hmong classified many soil types in relation to their rock content (‘with rock’ or ‘pure rock’ sometimesbeing used). The results of the study suggest that the ethnic groups classify the soils in relation to their potential for different types of agricultural production.
文摘This study deals with the perceptions of indigenous knowledge in the field of conservation and the impact of climate change on biodiversity in the peripheral villages of the Bouba-Ndjidda National Park (PNBN), Department of Mayo-Rey, Cameroon. To this end, 23 out of 70 villages in the study area were selected, for a sample of 368 households surveyed through a questionnaire addressed to the heads of households. Data collection took place from August 27 to December 22, 2022. The results reveal that 70.7% of the population living near the PNBN practice agriculture as their main income-generating activity, followed by livestock (23.3%) and trade (6%). Knowledge in the field of the conservation of natural resources is rooted in occultism through rituals and sacrifices (99.50%) offered to the geniuses of nature and prohibitions on the felling of trees and sacred animals (13.00%). The populations perceive climate change through the variation of the seasons (97.60%), the increase in temperature (84.80%), the reduction in the duration of the rainy seasons (54.60%), the drop in agricultural yield (84.80%) and floods (74.70%). The consequence of these changes on wildlife is the disappearance of animal species such as the Rhinoceros, the Wild Dog, the Cheetah and the Ostrich. In order to cope with climate change, the natives have developed strategies such as the adoption of early crop varieties (maize, millet, soybeans, etc.), the reorganization of the agricultural calendar, the practice of reforestation, extension of field surfaces, the cessation of excessive deforestation and uncontrolled bush fires, the construction of fired brick houses, the practice of irrigation, seasonal migration and occultism. This indigenous knowledge is a perfect adaptation to climate change and makes it possible to better take into account the vision of local populations in the conservation of biodiversity.
文摘Indigenous cultures prescribed a means of maximizing the benefits they produced and enjoyed in their relationship with each other and the environment-based on their understanding of the nature of existence and how to live in harmony with the forces shaping the nature of existence.The emergence of civilization introduced the claim that rational abilities superseded indigenous knowledge.This was followed by positivism and the claim that knowledge passed through three stages:mythological,philosophical,and scientific.This impacted indigenous cultures in ways that reached a height when postcolonial development experts convinced national leaders that progress required adopting advances in science.A failure to modernize was regarded as holding back progress.With the development paradigm now regarded as inadequate for achieving its goals and with the rise of the sustainability discourse,there is appreciation for indigenous knowledge.This article describes an indigenous cultural knowledge system that reflects the insight and wisdom of the world’s most respected scientific and philosophical traditions.The beliefs of the Bodo people of Northeast India are used as an example of an indigenous worldview that portrays insight proven to have value that is comparable to the natural sciences,plus theories of natural law and political philosophy.
文摘Community members at village level depend on weather information to plan and make decision on livelihood options.The livelihood options and well-being of rural smallholder farmers,pastoralists and fishers in Tanzania are facing ever increasing extreme weather events especially prolonged droughts,temperature rise and floods.This paper investigates traditional indicators which are useful for planning and decision making among farmers,pastoralists and fishers of Lushoto and Pangani in Tanga Region as well as Bagamoyo and Chalinze in Coast Region.Descriptive research method was employed to investigate how traditional indicators are useful for planning during long term(seasonal)and decision making during short term forecasting.Primary data were collected from Indigenous Knowledge(IK)teams,community members and leaders of Local Government Authority.Secondary data were obtained from different sources such as Gray literature,published journals,National Library,District Offices and Regional Officers were the highly consulted sources.Focus Group Discussion,Field Observation,transect walks and Key Informant interviews were the applied methods to systematically document behaviour of local indicators from one month to the next.During Focus Group in each District,elderly farmers,pastoralists and fishers were the sources of primary data.They shared experience on local indicators which they have been observing before the start of the season for the period of 30 years ago.Observation was conducted by IK teams who reported the indicators’behaviour and seasonal events every after 14 days.Quantitative data were coded to Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 20(SPSS 20)tool and analysed using descriptive statistics to show the frequencies of rainfall,showers and drought events which were recorded during IK meetings and those from TMA.Thematic data analysis method integrated hermeneutics approach in analysing data from IK meeting minutes,FGD and KII.Long term forecast indicators successfully informed us on the procedures that lead into determining seasons for either good or poor distribution of rainfall in the next season.Short term traditional indicators were useful for decision making within a season.As long as seasons behave differently from one year to the next,the authors recommend observing indicators for several years and determine how indicators behave when the scientific seasonal outlooks are below normal,normal or above normal.
文摘This study explores the epistemic imperative to decolonize African education systems by centering indigenous philosophies such as Ubuntu and introducing the Ubuntu Pedagogy as a pedagogical model.Ubuntu pedagogy transforms teacher-learner relationships,it provides a replicable model for relational learning,community partnerships,and reassert the dignity of indigenous epistemologies.The paper examines how language,knowledge production,and pedagogy can be restructured to reflect African epistemologies and educational sovereignty.This research also explores the relationship between mother tongue instruction and cognitive access to learning.Through a qualitative literature analysis of case studies and African scholarly discourse,this paper highlights the continued marginalization of indigenous knowledge systems and the need to embed culturally relevant teaching methodologies.The findings support the broader question of whether there exists an epistemological base for knowledge independence or production within African and Afro-Diasporic contexts,revealing culturally coherent frameworks of learning that resist colonial dominance and an exploration of reclaiming African indigenous knowledge systems for educational and cultural sovereignty.
文摘Studying the interactions and relationships between humans and animals is known as ethnozoology.Indigenous medicine that is used to prevent,diagnose,and cure physical and mental disorders is known as traditional medicine.The understanding of how various animal materials are used in conventional medicine by different ethnic communities is undocumented and largely passed through oral communication from generation to generation.Traditional medicine is the primary source of healthcare for many ethnic tribes in Ethiopia.Approximately 80%of Ethiopians rely on traditional medicine to cure a variety of human conditions.However,because they are passed down orally from generation to generation,this indigenous medical practice is being disregarded and is still disappearing as a result of inadequate documentation.Ethiopia is a land of diversity,with a wide variety of fauna and ethnic groups,each of whom uses and manipulates medicinal animals in a unique way to treat a range of human illnesses.The main participants in the curative component of traditional medicine practice are traditional healers,who go by various names in different regions of the nation.In Ethiopia,though indigenous societies medicinally used animal species for millennia,they have given little attention to their conservation.Therefore,documentation of traditional medicinal animals and indigenous healing practices of Ethiopian cultures are very important to preserve the country’s resources.
文摘This article analyzes in‐depth the development trajectory of the innovation systems(IS)in the case of Namibia.The research data consists of documents,interviews and studies related to IS development in Namibia from the 1990s until early 2016.The case study highlights the spatiotemporal challenges of creating an IS in a developing country with limited STI resources and the potential mismatch between related strategies and practices.IS is a broad framework that identifies and maps potential relevant actors for innovation development but it does not necessary enhance interactions between the actors of IS.For developing countries,the doing‐using‐interacting mode of innovation fits better when the aim is to integrate indigenous knowledge(IK)into an IS.An IK‐included IS can facilitate participatory development processes,foster socioeconomic resilience of local communities and enhance the comparative advantage of a developing country.
基金the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation(grant 1406.03,2016/17)the Aboriginal Aquatic Resource and Oceans Management Program(grant ARM2015-MLT-7006-3,2016/17)the Marine Planning Partnership(via Tides Canada grant CCS P098-06143,2016/17)。
文摘Introduction:F isheries management is often data-limited,and conducted at spatial scales that are too large to address the needs of Indigenous peoples,whose cultures depend upon the local availability of marine resources.Outcomes:We combined Indigenous ecological knowledge with simulation modelling to inform modern fishery management.Semi-structured interviews with Indigenous fishers in coastal British Columbia,Canada,uncovered severe declines in the abundance and catches of Dungeness crab(Cancer magister)since the 1990s.We modelled the current probability of"successful"crab harvesting trips-as defined by expectations from past catches by Indigenous fishers-using fishery-independent data from nine sites.These probabilities were very low(<20%)for all sites except one.Discussion:Our study highlights that local depletions,which Indigenous fishers attribute to commercial and recreational fisheries,have been widespread and undetected by federal managers who manage Dungeness crab at regional scales without fishery-independent data.Further,local depletions impacted the ability of Indigenous fishers to access traditional foods.Conclusion:Integrating Indigenous knowledge with scientific research is crucial to inform locally-relevant fisheries management and conservation.
基金We acknowledge the support of the foresters,rangers,area chiefs,sub-chiefs and residents of Tharaka-Nithi county accorded to this study.The Kenya Forest Service for the fieldwork permits and the scientist Mr.Ken Wambua of National Museums of Kenya for help with specimen identification.Dr.Emily Wabuyele who gave helpful insights in the development of this manuscript.This research was supported by grants of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31970211)from the Sino-Africa Joint Research Centre,CAS(SAJC201614).
文摘Rural communities in Kenya largely depend on plant resources for their livelihood.The utilization of these resources depends on the availability of plant resources and the level of knowledge of the residents.We conducted an ethnobotanical study in Tharaka-Nithi County in Kenya to determine the knowledge and utilization of various plant species by the local communities.The study was conducted in four major administrative regions from June 2018 to February 2019,involving interview schedules using semi-structured open-ended questionnaires and guided field collections with 48 informants.A total of 214 plant species distributed in 73 families and 169 genera with 616 Use Reports(URs)were documented.Fabaceae was the highest family cited by the informants(31 species)followed by Lamiaceae and Euphorbiaceae(each with 11 species).Trees(49%)and shrubs(32%)were the top life forms of the plants frequently utilized by the local residents.The general plant uses reported were medicinal,food,fodder,construction,fuel,pesticidal,religious,live fencing,and making crafts.Zanthoxylum gilletii,Prunus africana,and Solanum incanum were found to be highly valued by the local communities.Plant utilization as food and medicinal uses against snake-bite related problems had the highest Informant Consensus Factor(ICF).Only 29(13.6%)of the species reported had their status assessed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature(IUCN).Conservation measures,alongside awareness creation in this region,are highly recommended for the species endemic to the region,highly depended on by the community,and those threatened according to IUCN standards.
基金The work was supported by the European Union under the French Agricultural Research Center for International Development(CIRAD)through a project entitled"Forest Restoration in Degraded Forest Landscapes of Eastern Africa and Indian Ocean Islands"(FOREAIM),within the FP6 framework(International Cooperation-Developing Countries[INCO-DEV],Contract INCO-CT-2005-510790).
文摘The cultural universe is sometimes confusing,surprising and murky,so many cultural maps get drawn,discussed and envisioned.A study was undertaken around Mabira Forest Reserve in central Uganda to identify the trees and shrubs culturally managed on-farm,assess the cultural practices of forest and tree system management and determine the relationship between farmer gender and forest and tree system management.We engaged 203 farmers in focus group discussions and semi-structured interviews to collect data.Qualitative data were jointly evaluated with farmers;quantitative data were analyzed in SPSS 20.0.The results showed a high likelihood for involvement of local people in tree or forest management for economic gain,as timber and fast-growing species were highly ranked.Food and medicinal species were also regarded as important,suggesting high prospects of integrating them into the local farming system or protecting them in the forest.Numerous cultural practices(including rituals,trenching,bark slashing,ring barking,spot weeding and use of organic manure and pesticides)of forest and tree system management were acknowledged.However,their knowledge was mixed and unclear about distinct cultural and supportive arrangements for natural forest and tree restoration.While gender was not a significant cultural attribute for knowledge of the forest and allied tree system management,age substantially affected farmer propensity for various timber products.Also farmer’s family size influenced the collection of tree wildings and fodder.We encourage considering gender disparities and livelihood needs including income,during selection of cultural practices for forest and tree restoration.
文摘Jatropha curcas(L)has gained popularity as a biodiesel plant to serve as an alternative fuel source and generate income to small landholders.From the Bioenergy policy of Ghana,the government is collaborating with the private sector to develop about one million hectares of Jatropha plantation throughout the country.The objective of this study was to assess the importance which farmers give to,Jcurcas compared with other indigenous tree species and identify the indigenous uses and niches of J.curcas in Ghana.Three farming communities were selected from each of the ten regions.A total of six hundred farmers,consisting of twenty farmers from each community were selected at random and interviewed with a semi-structured questionnaire.Results revealed that J curcas was identified as one of the most important tree species in nine out of the ten regions.Majority(56%)of the respondents indicated that it is mainly used for medicinal purpose and mostly found around homesteads.However.the study observed that,research attention is needed on integration into agricultural lands,germplasm collection and genetic improvement.These findings will help boost production ofJ.curcas in Ghana for the nation to realize her dream of alternative fuel from the plant.
文摘This study is an attempt to point out the different types of natural hazards in Sudur Paschim province of Nepal where environmental degradation processes such as deforestation,desertification,biodiversity loss,soil crisp and watershed degradation are rising trends.Using participatory method multi hazard prone areas were identified with type and intensity.Multi criteria evaluation method was applied to prioritize replicable actions with location-specific innovative practices and their legitimization for integrating local and indigenous knowledge into mainstream education,science and policy with a view to incorporate local and indigenous knowledge as live science in disaster and climate change education.Findings of the study reveal that varieties of natural hazards in combination with social factors such as poverty,conflict and inequality have resulted frequent disasters and social vulnerabilities in many parts of the province.Traditionally,indigenous and local people have responded threats of multi hazards by using their traditional knowledge and skills which has evolved over generations,and continue to adapt to future changes.These traditional,often faith-based,beliefs and practices were found to use as the key to their resilience in the face of natural hazards.However,many communities have been lost their knowledge as the elderly die without transferring it to younger members.Behind this proper educational policy and strategic development plans have not been implemented to cope local/indigenous knowledge into practices.Findings of the study indicate that indigenous and local knowledge is a precious province resource that can support the process of disaster prevention,preparedness and response in cost-effective disaster risk reduction.Therefore,policy framework has to prime focus to integrate indigenous and local knowledge,wisdom and skills into mainstream educational programs in order to transfer science into policy and education(words)into practice.
文摘This study explores the mathematical practices embedded in the cultural traditions of the Tharu community, with a focus on their counting systems, measuring techniques, and modeling patterns. Through ethnographic observations and field interviews, the research reveals how the Tharu people employ a base-20 counting system influenced by the Nepali numbering system and use physical objects for arithmetic operations. Their traditional measuring techniques rely on body-referenced units such as the Haat (hand) and Anguli (finger) for length, along with culturally specific units like the Muthi and Lota for volume. Additionally, the study examines the geometric patterns found in Tharu crafts, highlighting the community’s application of symmetry and ratios. The findings illustrate the significance of these ethnomathematical practices in the daily life of the Tharu people, offering insight into how indigenous mathematical knowledge can enrich the broader understanding of mathematics education. This research contributes to the field of ethnomathematics by documenting and analyzing the ways in which cultural groups integrate mathematical concepts to solve practical problems and preserve their heritage.
文摘On October 14,2023,a symposium themed“The Chinese Path to Modernization and the Promotion of Free and Comprehensive Human Development”was held in Changchun,Jilin Province,China.More than fifty experts,scholars,and researchers from national institutions and universities engaged in discussions and exchanges on human rights on the Chinese path to modernization,including the path,practice,knowledge systems,and civilization forms of human rights.This symposium played a significant role in advancing the construction of the disciplinary system,academic system,and discourse system of human rights in China.
基金the National Research Foundation(NRF)Govan Mbeki Research and Development Centre(GMRDC)University of Fort Hare for financial support to conduct this research
文摘Croton sylvaticus(C. sylvaticus) is widely used as herbal medicine by the indigenous people of tropical Africa. The potential of C. sylvaticus as herbal medicine,the phytochemistry and pharmacological properties of its parts used as herbal medicines are reviewed. The extensive literature survey revealed that C. sylvaticus is traditionally used to treat or manage at least 24 human and animal diseases and ailments. The species is used as herbal medicine for diseases and ailments such as abdominal pains,boils,fever,inflammation,malaria,rheumatism,swellings and tuberculosis and as ethnoveterinary medicine. Multiple classes of phytochemicals such as alkaloids,anthraquinones,essential oils,flavonoids,lignan,phenolics,sterols,tannins and terpenoids have been isolated from the species. Scientific studies on C. sylvaticus indicate that it has a wide range of pharmacological activities which include antibacterial,antifungal,anti-inflammatory,antioxidant,larvicidal and effects on the central nervous system. Although studies have confirmed that C. sylvaticus has a wide range of bioactives,further research on the exact bioactive molecules and mechanisms of action are required.
文摘Nootka rose (</span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Rosa nutkana </span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">C. Presl) and stinging nettle (</span></span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Urtica dioica </span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">L.</span><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">) have been traditionally used in the treatment of skin infection by Indigenous peoples of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. The main objective of this study was to examine the antibacterial efficacy of extracts of Nootka </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">rose and stinging nettle against the common pathogenic skin bacteria</span> </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Staphylococcus aureus</span></i><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">,</span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> Micrococcus luteus</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">, and </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Pseudomonas aeruginosa</span></i> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">using </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Indigenous science and standard methods of analysis. The Indigenous science method of plant extraction by steeping as advised by the Traditional Knowledge keeper</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> was performed to examine minimum inhibitory concentration </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">(MIC) </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">values and minimum bactericidal concentrations </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">(MBC) by serial dilution and bacterial population counts. </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Soxhlet extractions and Kirby Bauer disc sensitivity testing showed that Nootka rose </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">extracts possessed antibacterial effectiveness against all three bacterial species while stinging nettle extracts were effective against </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">M. luteus</span></i><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. Results for MIC and MBC indicated antibacterial activity against </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">M. luteus</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> and </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">S. aureus</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> for the </span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Nootka rose when using </span><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">full-strength solutions;all three bacterial species exhibited growth when undiluted stinging nettle treatments were used. When considering bacterial population counts for</span><b> </b><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">S. aureus,</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> results indicated</span><b> </b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">that only the Nootka rose treatment offered effective inhibition. Chemical analysis showed that alkaloid percentage was greater in the stinging nettle (0.17%) than </span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Nootka rose </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">(0.07%), while saponin percentage was greater in the </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Nootka rose </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">(0.87%) than stinging nettle (0.17%). Overall, </span><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Nootka rose showed a greater level of</span><b> </b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">antibacterial effectiveness than </span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">stinging nettle by Indigenous and Western scientific methods of plant extract preparation.
