Methodology
This study combines Field Linguistics and Language Documentation methods. The team conducted field work, together with a local consultant, Mr Benediktus Delpada, to collect original and ‘first-hand’ data, documented plant species (English and Abui plant names and the scientific name). Besides looking at the medicinal properties and cultural relevance (from the perspective of the Abui people), the team also explored local myths and legends connected with the plants.
Thereafter, the team organised the data in a database which is reflected below.
| Please note that all Abui plant names, reported medical usages of plants and any associated legends or myths recorded below are the intellectual property of the Abui people. |
Collection
Tamarind / Tamal
| English Plant Name: | Tamarind |
| Abui Plant Name: | Tamal |
| Scientific Name: | Tamarindus indica |
| Etymological Reconstruction: | TBC |
It is used to cure (smaller/ less serious) chicken pox. The leaf of tamarind is boiled, and used to bathe somebody suffering from the chicken pox.
Dry tamarind is an ingredient of soup.
| Remarks:
Tentative |