Traditional Medicinal Uses of Bearded Vulture (Gypaetus barbatus) Droppings: A Review of Historical Sources and Evidence
- VernacularTitle:Уламжлалт анагаах ухаанд ёл шувуу (Gypaetus barbatus)-ны сангасыг эмчилгээнд хэрэглэж ирснийг тэмдэглэсэн зарим сурвалж зохиолыг тодруулан судлах нь
- Author:
Suyalatu Tang
1
;
2
;
Batbold B
3
;
Tserendagva D
4
Author Information
1. Academic Training Center, Graduate School, MNUMS
2. The First Affiliated Hospital of Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology
3. Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, MNUMS
4. Department of University Hospital, MNUMS
- Publication Type:Review
- Keywords:
Traditional medicine;
Bearded vulture feces;
Source literature;
Mongolian traditional treatment;
Animal products
- From:
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences
2026;91(1):240-244
- CountryMongolia
- Language:Mongolian
-
Abstract:
Background:The feces of the bearded vulture (Gypaetus barbatus) have a long history of use in traditional medicine. Owing to the bird’s unique biological characteristics, its feces have been employed as a medicinal raw material in various traditional medical systems. Traditionally, processed bearded vulture feces have been used primarily to treat digestive disorders, tumors, wounds, and certain mental illnesses. However, academic research on their medicinal use remains limited. The purpose of this study is to analyze selected historical sources documenting the use of bearded vulture feces in traditional medicine and to clarify their therapeutic significance and reported effects.
Aim:The objective of this study is to compile and review selected sources, commentaries, and texts that record the therapeutic use of bearded vulture feces in traditional medicine.
Materials and Methods:This study employs historical and textual research methods, analytical–synthetic approaches, systematic analysis, and comparative historical methods. Relevant traditional medical literature was examined to identify and synthesize sources documenting the use of bearded vulture feces in the treatment of human diseases, with particular emphasis on gastrointestinal disorders and gastric cancer.
Result:The results indicate that bearded vulture feces constituted an important therapeutic component in Tibetan, Mongolian, and Chinese traditional medical systems. Historically, they were primarily used in the treatment of bone-related diseases, digestive system disorders, and inflammatory conditions. The therapeutic significance of bearded vulture feces in traditional medicine can be summarized as follows:
1. Processing and Medicinal Properties: In traditional medical practice, bearded vulture feces are typically roasted or subjected to controlled processing before being incorporated into medicinal prescriptions. They are described as bitter in taste and warming in nature, with effects including resolving masses, eliminating “Badgan,” restoring vital heat, promoting digestion, stimulating appetite, and dispersing tumors.
2. Bone Strengthening Effects: Due to their content of minerals such as calcium and phosphorus, bearded vulture feces were believed to enhance bone strength and support bone regeneration.
3. Digestive Function Enhancement: The organic and biological components of the feces were traditionally thought to support digestive function and improve intestinal activity.
4. Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Effects: Certain chemical components of the feces were considered effective in combating inflammation and infection.
Conclusion:The feces of the bearded vulture (Gypaetus barbatus) have been used in traditional medicine over a long period, primarily for the treatment of bone diseases, digestive disorders, and inflammatory conditions. They are believed to contain minerals such as calcium and phosphorus, which may contribute to bone strengthening, improved digestion, and anti-inflammatory effects. Nevertheless, due to the limited scope of modern medical research, further studies are required to evaluate their efficacy and safety. Future research should focus on elucidating the biological activities and therapeutic applications of bearded vulture feces through interdisciplinary investigation.
- Full text:202609261427265563441_Уламжлалт_анагаах_ухаанд_ёл_шувуу_Gypaetus_barbatus-ны_санга.pdf
