Ethnobotanical Study of Medicinal Plants Utilized by Local Communities in Kereng Bangkirai

Abstrak

Kereng Bangkirai is an area with rich biological resources and strong local knowledge related to the use of medicinal plants. This ethnobotanical knowledge has been passed down through generations and plays an important role in maintaining community health. This study aimed to identify medicinal plant species utilized by local communities in Kereng Bangkirai, including the plant parts used and methods of preparation. The research employed a descriptive qualitative design using an ethnobotanical survey approach. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with key informants, field observations, and documentation. The results showed that the local community utilizes various medicinal plant species from different families to treat minor illnesses and for daily health care. Leaves were the most frequently used plant parts, followed by rhizomes and roots, with simple preparation methods such as boiling and infusion. This study highlights the importance of preserving local ethnobotanical knowledge as part of biodiversity conservation and the development of traditional medicine.