Practices during common cold and ear ache in children among the Koraga tribes: A descriptive survey

Background: Common cold and ear ache are one of the major problems which occur due to infection in children. Tribal populations use different practices to get rid of these infections. Objectives: The objective of the study was to assess the practices of the Koraga tribes during common cold and ear ache in children. Materials and Method: The study used a descriptive survey approach to collect data from 200 Koraga tribal care takers using a practice questionnaire. The data was analysed using SPSS 16.0 software. Results: Majority 110 (55%) of caretakers were using pepper, 49 (24.5%) were using lemon and honey mixture and 19 (9.5%) were using ginger for common cold. Other practices include applying Vicks vaporub over forehead, nose and neck 156 (78%), using pepper and black cumin kashayam 21 (10.5%) and samabarbelle leaves 23 (11.5%). Practices during ear ache in children includes, 96 (48%) of caretakers were not practicing any home remedies, 58 (29%) putting oil into the ear, 14 (7%) putting water into the ear and 32 (16%) of sample were observing and cleaning the ear with soft cotton. Other practice includes dry fish water into the ear 11 (5.5%). Conclusion: The study concluded that majority of Koraga tribes still practice many home remedies to treat the children with common cold and ear ache.