Traditional Uses of dung

Dung has an astonishing and myriad variety of uses which have been developed over a period of time. Dung patties (gootee) are mainly used by poor people for cooking.

Dung cakes provide a slow and constant heat for a longer time than wood and coal. Therefore, it is being preferred for preparing extracts (Ashabs) from herbal medicines. The fuel value of 2 kg dung cake has been estimated as 1 kg wood or 0.5 kg coal. It has anti radio active and antiseptic properties. Thus, mixture of dung, mud and water is used for floor and wall coating in rural areas. Further, such coating improves water absorption of mud and prevents muddy puddles. Dung is used to purify many medicines such as Bhasmas and herbal medicines as it acts as good detoxifier. Cow dung ash obtained after using as fuel source, also help in cleaning the cooking pots. Dry dung ash is used to absorb oil and fat present on utensils and wet as general cleaner. Brass utensils after cleaning with tamarind are polished with ash. Dung ashes are used as excellent components of tooth powder. Dung mixed with crushed neem (Azadirachta indica) leaves smeared on skin will help in healing of boils and heat rash. Sometimes, it is believed to reduce incidence of psoriasis. Dung is an ingredient to prepare insecticide, insect repellents and mosquito repellent. It helps as Ph balancer particularly in fish ponds. Dung coating on seed before sowing not only helps in protection against pests but also helps in improving the seed germination. Dung contains nearly 16 different types of micro-organisms which destroy harmful bacteria present in urban wastes and helps in restoring the soil nutrients. Dung contains nearly 16 minerals which are beneficial for soil health and fertility. Dung provides a number of micronutrients, which are responsible to maintain the fertility; texture and water holding capacity of the soil.