Use of Black Vulture (Coragyps Atratus) in Complementary and Alternative Therapies for Cancer in Colombia: a Qualitative Study

Overview

Journal J Ethnobiol Ethnomed

Publisher Biomed Central

Specialties General Medicine
Social Sciences

Date 2012 Jun 2

PMID 22651097

Citations 2

Authors

Ricardo Sanchez-Pedraza

Magda R Gamba-Rincon

Andres L Gonzalez-Rangel

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Background: Although Coragyps atratus has been used as a traditional therapy for patients with cancer, the scientific literature does not contain enough information on how this therapy is used or the mechanisms that explain this therapeutic practice.

Objectives: To understand the methods of use and the reasons given by patients and caregivers for the use of Coragyps atratus in cancer treatment.

Methods: This study used a qualitative design based on twenty in-depth interviews of patients with cancer or caregivers of patients with the disease. The analysis of the text was based on an inductive thematic approach.

Results: Resistance to disease and immune enhancement are properties attributed to Coragyps atratus when used for cancer treatment. The most recommended method of use is fresh blood ingestion, and the associated mechanism of action is transfer of immune factors to the individual who consumes it.

Conclusions: Use of Coragyps atratus as a treatment for cancer is a popular alternative therapy in Colombia. More studies are needed to understand the clinical effects of this intervention in cancer patients.

Citing Articles

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Local knowledge, use, and conservation of wild birds in the semi-arid region of Paraíba state, northeastern Brazil.

Dos Santos Soares V, de Lucena Soares H, da Silva Santos S, Lucena R J Ethnobiol Ethnomed. 2018; 14(1):77.

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