Mythology and Medicine: A Comparative Study of Native American’s Sweet Grass and Indian’s <i>Durva</i> Grass

Abstract

Indigenous people depend on nature for their livelihood. They are reliant on nearby forest flora and animals for food, medicines, and building materials for their homes. The first tribes had their own in-depth knowledge and answers for all elements of existence. Tribal wisdom has always been transmitted orally from one generation to the next. This tribal wisdom includes knowledge about the plants and herbs and their medicinal values and uses. Myths and legends play a major role in carrying that information with them from generation to generation. Native American and Indian tribal communities have always had a variety of medical procedures and supplies having a long history of usage are referred to as traditional medicine. Out of the different herbs and plants, sweet grass from Native Americans and Durva or Doob grass from Indians has a noteworthy importance and connection to their respective cultures. To highlight the parallels in the two grasses’ purpose and significance, this article attempts to create a comparison analysis between them. While bringing out their similarities, the native American and Indian tribal likeness in culture and practices is also studied.