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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.

Schematic Diagram

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