Research on ancient Himalayan healing practices begins in Karnali

By Our Correspondent,Humla, Nov. 21: The Ministry of Social Development of Karnali Province has started  an investigation into ancient Himalayan healing practices across three districts within the province.

The study, initiated in Dolpa, Mugu, and Humla, follows observations indicating that herbal remedies have demonstrated efficiency in treating specific ailments. The ministry has thus undertaken a formal inquiry into these traditional methods.

Minister for Social Development, Ghanshyam Bhandari, stated that expert teams have been dispatched to conduct the research. These teams are presently identifying the techniques employed and the practitioners involved in Himalayan healing traditions.

“These traditional practices continue to be utilised within rural communities. The provincial government now seeks to acknowledge them as legitimate forms of treatment,” Minister Bhandari said.

Three dedicated expert teams have been assigned- each responsible for one of the districts- to compile comprehensive reports on local practices. This research will also document practitioners and their methodologies, including the use of herbal treatments, which remain vital in saving lives within the region.

Following the completion of this study, a roster of traditional healers will be established, and a provincial conference will be organised to engage local communities in the formal recognition of these practices.