Role of Phra Anek Mahaviro in Sustainable Utilization of Medicinal Plants in Ban Chiang Community, Mae Chaem, Chiang Mai Province

Abstract

The objective of this research was to study the concept, utilization and management of natural medicinal plant resources for community health care by Phra Anek Mahaviro, abbot of Wat Chiang temple in the District of Mae Chaem in Chiang Mai Province. The methods applied to research this qualitative case study were: indepth interviews with Phra Anek Mahaviro, traditional healers, people in the District of Mae Chaem and personnel of the Pharmacy Department of Mae Chaem Hospital. Data was also collected through participatory observations, documentation studies and participation in the activities of Traditional Healerีs Club. The data was analyzed by descriptive analysis using the concept of indigenous knowledge of self health care in the community. The field research was carried out between December 2005 and March 2007.

It was found that Phra Anek had many roles in the community.  He was a spiritual leader, central to the culture and conservation of the local wisdom of indigenous utilization of traditional herbal medicine, and a leader in the Traditional Healerีs Club. His role in the utilization of herbal medicines in the community provided concrete answers in both objectives and abstract forms for self health care of the community in the modernized society.  It was also found that the experiences, life style, vision and philosophy of Phra Anek were very valuable. They are worth carefully thinking over and using as a work philosophy in the handling of natural resources and managing the utilization of medicinal plants in Thai society for sustainability.