Aboriginal’s use of Snake vine as medicine

Topic

Aboriginal’s use of Snake vine as medicine

Instructions 

Identify one traditional medicine used by Australian Aboriginal people prior to European colonization. Discuss how it was used and why it was indicated.

Answer Preview 

The Snake vine is a plant that has vigorous climbing characteristics, in that it can grow up to five meters long. During warmer seasons the plant grows large leaves and blooms huge yellow followers (NITV, 2017). The snake vine or ‘Ngalyipi’, as referred to by the Warlpiri people was extensively utilized by Aboriginal people of Northern and central Australia.  The stems and leaves of the snake vine were mashed and warmed into a past, and subsequently used as a topical application for pain related to arthritis for joints and other inflammation injuries.

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