At the markets of the Jayil district, one can find sellers offering nests of the reed bunting as a folk remedy.
“The reed bunting nest is effective for many ailments. A decoction made from it helps with kidney diseases, and the smoke from burning it alleviates inflammation of the ear and throat. The price of one nest is 1000 soms, but I can cut a piece for 100 soms,” said Nazira, a consultant at one of the folk medicine sales points.
In addition to nests, the stalls also feature dried frogs, medicinal clay, various herbs, and animal bones.
Ecologist Alexander Sidorenko shared information about the reed bunting and the reasons for the healing properties of its nests.
“The reed bunting is a small bird that resembles a tit. It inhabits Kyrgyzstan from April to October, preferring to settle in river thickets. The reed bunting's nest is an original structure that resembles a mitten with an opening, usually attached to the ends of branches over water. It takes about two weeks to create, and the birds use plant fibers and the fluff of willows and poplars, which they turn into a durable and soft felt-like material. Such nests can remain on trees for several years,” noted the ecologist.
In Kyrgyz mythology, the reed bunting's nest was attributed with magical properties, and it was believed that finding and bringing it home would ensure health, happiness, and prosperity.
Kyrgyz folk medicine believes that reed bunting nests possess healing power. The smoke from the nests helps with ear, throat, and nose ailments. Ash from a burned nest was used to accelerate the healing of deep cuts.
According to sociologist Nurlan Tynystanov, the popularity of folk medicine today is linked to the inaccessibility of modern medications in pharmacies due to high prices.
