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Chapter 1
Introduction
Background of the study
Over the past century, the field of ethnobotany has evolved into a scientific discipline that explores the dynamic relationship between humans and plants, drawing on a diverse range of fields such as botany, anthropology, ecology, economics, public policy, pharmacology, and public health as necessary (Ong et al., 2014). Notably, a significant portion of the global population, particularly in underdeveloped nations, lacks access to fundamental medical treatments, medications, and vaccinations. This has led to a growing demand for herbal medicine, even among more affluent populations in both developed and developing countries. Complementary and alternative medical treatments are also gaining popularity. Globally, there are approximately 31,128 species of flowering plants, with 17,810 of them possessing medicinal properties. However, the conservation of these valuable plant resources is at risk due to factors like habitat fragmentation, overexploitation, climate change, and illegal trade, putting around 15,000 species in jeopardy (Pangeni et al., 2020). In the Philippines, a country rich in biodiversity, more than 850 medicinal plant species have been recognized, prompting numerous scientific investigations into these valuable resources. These efforts have resulted in publications like “Medicinal Plants of the Philippines” and “Useful Plants of the Philippines” (Dapar et al., 2020). Recently, there has been growing interest in traditional plants among various ethnic groups in the Philippines, focusing on their phytochemical properties and medicinal potential. It’s worth noting, however, that the majority of individuals in the Southern Philippines lack awareness of the current state of conservation regarding their plant-based food sources and communal assets (Dapar et al., 2022). Furthermore, ethnobotanical research in Cagayan De Oro City, particularly in Sitio Calaanan, has been limited. Consequently, there is a significant gap in comprehensive information about the diversity of medicinal plants in this region. Before the advent of modern medicine and pharmaceuticals, people relied on natural substances such as plants, minerals, and animals for healing, a practice dating back to early human civilizations (Baddu & Ouano, 2018). Plants, in particular, have always fascinated people for their therapeutic properties. Conducting research to address these gaps in our understanding of medicinal plants is a critical endeavor with far-reaching implications. This research aims to deepen our understanding of the diverse knowledge systems present in various cultures and communities. By bridging these gaps, we can unlock the untapped potential of traditional medicinal knowledge, leading to the discovery of new remedies, improvements in healthcare practices, and the preservation of invaluable cultural heritage. The primary objective of this study is to assess the local population’s knowledge of medicinal plants, with a specific emphasis on their practices and efforts to conserve these valuable resources, particularly in Sitio Calaanan. Furthermore, addressing these research gaps promotes the responsible and sustainable use of medicinal plants, ensuring their preservation for future generations. Ultimately, this research transcends the boundaries of science, promoting cross-cultural appreciation, preserving traditional wisdom, and advocating for the responsible management of natural resources, all for the betterment of society as a whole. In the realm of ethnobotanical surveys of medicinal plants, numerous significant questions remain unexplored. These questions include the need for rigorous scientific validation to assess the effectiveness and safety of traditional remedies, elucidating the molecular mechanisms of action of medicinal plants, and exploring the synergies between traditional and modern healthcare systems for holistic patient care. It is also imperative to delve into the ecological impacts of medicinal plant harvesting and develop sustainable harvesting practices to ensure the long-term availability of these invaluable resources. Understanding how cultural, social, and economic factors influence the transmission and preservation of ethnobotanical knowledge is crucial for bridging the gap between traditional wisdom and contemporary healthcare practices. These research endeavors will not only enrich our scientific knowledge but also contribute to the well-being of communities, the conservation of biodiversity, and the promotion of culturally sensitive healthcare solutions. The rationale for this study stems from a genuine desire to explore and understand the knowledge, practices, and conservation efforts of a specific community. Additionally, this research endeavor aims to extend practical assistance to economically disadvantaged individuals within that community. By gaining insights into their knowledge and practices, we can identify opportunities to support and uplift financially vulnerable members of the population. Investigating conservation efforts aligns with a broader objective of promoting sustainable resource management and environmental stewardship, which can benefit both the community and the ecosystem it inhabits. This study seeks to blend the pursuit of knowledge with a commitment to practical and financial support for the betterment of the community's well-being and the preservation of its natural environment. Theoretical Framework This study is anchored on non-random selection of medicinal plants theory, which states that phylogeny affects the selection of medicinal plants, was proposed by Daniel Moerman (2019) to indirectly prove that traditional medicinal systems are rational and based in part by the therapeutic efficacy of plants. The logic of this theory is that because members of a taxonomical group share similar characteristics, some groups will be more medicinal and will be over-used in pharmacopoeias, while other groups bereft of secondary metabolites and therapeutic potential will be under-used medicinally. Also, this study incorporated different sociodemographic factors to determine if the intracultural homogeneity of traditional knowledge affects the results of the non-random selection of medicinal plants theory analysis.