Ancient Adivasi remedy Thapsi gum still in demand

ADILABAD: Nature provides many remedies for health problems, including various natural gums collected from forest trees. These gums have been used in rural and tribal communities for centuries and remain popular due to their perceived health benefits.

One such gum, Thapsi Banka (Thapsi Gum), is believed to promote good health by alleviating knee and joint pain and strengthening bones. Adivasis refer to it as Ithsever (with sever meaning gum and Mara meaning tree in the Gondi language). It is also known as Gum Karaya in other parts of the country.

According to Pendore Gouru Bai of Umapathikunta in Utnoor, many people still consume Thapsi Banka, though Thapsi trees are increasingly scarce due to various factors. Adivasi leader Sidam Arju explains that they collect Ithsever directly from the Thapsi tree and either consume it plain or mix it with cashews, raisins, almonds, and sugar for added health benefits.

Thapsi Banka is usually gathered in lump form before being powdered. It costs about Rs 300 per kg in Adilabad town. Arju adds that before modern medicine became widely accessible, Adivasis relied on gums, barks, tubers, and roots for everyday treatments. Thapsi Banka is particularly beneficial for pregnant and lactating women.

He also notes that lac (Lakka) is made from Moduga Banka, and that twigs from the Moduga tree are used like toothbrushes, believed to strengthen the roots of the teeth. In traditional fishing, Adivasis grind the bark of the Kodisekaya plant and mix it into water, causing fish to float to the surface. Meanwhile, gum from mango trees is used to treat Puppillu (tooth pain).

Devba from Chandrapur, who sells Thapsi Banka in Adilabad, says collecting the gum is difficult, but its medicinal benefits remain highly sought after. Kathle Laxman of Dubarpet in Ichoda also points out the growing demand for pure Thapsi Banka — now rare — and observes that people in rural and tribal areas continue to use it for overall health.