Fish as Medicine: Indigenous Traditional Knowledge and Practices in Northeast India

Northeast India, often referred to as the bio-geographical gateway of India. It is home to rich biodiversity and diverse indigenous communities with deep-rooted traditional knowledge systems. Among these, ichthyofauna plays a pivotal role in ethnomedicinal practices, reflecting the intricate relationship between humans and their environment. This study aims to document and analyse the therapeutic applications of fish species traditionally used for healthcare in Northeast India. Data were collected through secondary sources as well as inclusion and exclusion criteria across states: Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Sikkim that involved interviews with indigenous healers and ethnographic documentation. A total of 40 fish species from 16 families were identified, including Channa punctatus (Spotted Snakehead) and Monopterus cuchia (Cuchia Eel), which are commonly used for respiratory and gastrointestinal ailments. Findings reveal that fish-based remedies are deeply integrated into the cultural and spiritual beliefs of local communities, emphasizing a holistic approach to health. This study highlights the potential of integrating traditional ichthyotherapeutic knowledge with modern medicine to create sustainable and culturally appropriate healthcare solutions. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of preserving this indigenous knowledge for future generations while ensuring ecological sustainability.