Ethnobotanical and biophysical properties of wood species used in the traditional Uzbek cradle (beshik)

Abstract

Background: Traditional infant care systems constitute an important component of cultural heritage shaped by long-term interactions between human societies and their natural environment. In Central Asia, the Uzbek cradle (beshik) represents a distinctive traditional infant care device that integrates cultural practices with ecological and functional design. Despite its widespread use, the ethnobotanical basis and biophysical properties of materials employed in cradle construction remain insufficiently investigated.

Methods: Ethnobotanical data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 46 traditional craftsmen across four regions of Uzbekistan (Tashkent, Fergana, Samarkand, and Kashkadarya). The study integrated ethnographic observations, literature analysis, and comparative assessment of material properties. Tree species used in cradle construction were identified and taxonomically verified using international botanical databases, and their functional and cultural roles were systematically analyzed.

Results: The study identified four principal tree taxa used in cradle construction: Salix spp., Populus spp., Morus alba L. and Juglans regia L. Among these, Salix spp. was the dominant material, accounting for approximately 89-90% of cases, primarily due to its high elasticity, low density, and ease of processing. In contrast, Morus alba and Juglans regia were mainly associated with symbolic and cultural functions. Structural analysis demonstrated that the cradle incorporates a semi-arched support system capable of generating rhythmic, low-amplitude oscillations, which may contribute to infant stabilization and comfort. Additionally, ethnobotanical practices involving aromatic and medicinal plants were documented.

Conclusions: The findings indicate that the Uzbek cradle represents an integrated system shaped by traditional ecological knowledge, combining functional material selection with cultural values. This interdisciplinary approach elucidates the relationships between plant resources, traditional craftsmanship, and infant care practices, and provides a scientific basis for future research on ethnobotanical systems and biofunctional design.

Keywords: ethnobotany; traditional ecological knowledge; cradle; wood properties; Central Asia; infant care; biomaterials; biomechanics