A traditional remedy with a little-known history. Considered a ‘universal remedy’ in Madagascar, ‘ranomena’ was the focus of the 108th ‘Café-histoire’ held this Saturday at 10 a.m. at the Photography Museum in Anjohy. On this occasion, Gabrielle Robbins, an anthropologist at the University of Oxford, traced the history and uses of this traditional remedy, which is prepared from cattle bones combined with various aromatic plants and obtained through distillation.
In Madagascar, ‘ranomena’ is renowned for treating various ailments, including wounds, coughs, and colds. However, the history of this remedy remains little explored. Gabrielle Robbins’ presentation traced its evolution over three centuries, from the 19th to the 21st century, to understand how it has gained such a prominent place in Malagasy society.
An animal-based remedy opening new avenues. The researcher focused particularly on the composition of ‘ranomena’, which is primarily derived from cattle bones. This choice allows for the exploration of an understudied aspect of the Malagasy pharmacopoeia. While plant-based remedies have been the subject of extensive research, those of animal origin remain less known.
The study of ‘ranomena’ contributes to broadening research on the history of health and medicine in Madagascar. It also allows for questioning the place and role of cattle in Malagasy society through the medicinal uses associated with them.
Gabrielle Robbins is an anthropologist at the University of Oxford. Her work presented during this ‘Café-histoire’ focuses on ‘ranomena’, its history, its uses, and its place in Malagasy society. Through the study of this animal-based remedy, she is more broadly interested in the history of health and medicine in Madagascar as well as the role of cattle in Malagasy society.
Captured & Published at: 2026-09-01 05:39:40 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/09/medecine-traditionnelle-gabrielle.html