Knowledge and Utilization of Traditional Medicine among the Communities of Bucas Grande Island

Abstract

This study assessed the level of knowledge and utilization of traditional medicine among the communities of Bucas Grande Island, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines. It employed a quantitative-qualitative research design. Data gathered from the eleven (11) different affiliations existing in Bucas Grande Island using a researcher-made questionnaire were analyzed using frequency count and percent computation, mean and standard deviation, ANOVA with Scheffe’s Post Hoc comparison test, and Pearson Product Moment correlation.

It revealed that the majority of the residents are affiliated to Maharlika Ecumenical Catholic Apostolic (MECA), females, 48 to 57 years old, married and elementary graduates, unemployed with a family monthly income of less than ₱5000, and a family size of three to four members. Furthermore, results showed their high level of knowledge of traditional medicine and a moderate level of utilization.  Leaves from herbs are the most utilized part for the treatment of ailments and were commonly prepared through decoction. Remedies are mostly administered orally and the rest are applied topically.

The high level of knowledge on traditional medicine among the populace of Bucas Grande Island is not influenced by sex, religion, and family size. However, their moderate level of utilization is greatly influenced by their educational attainment, religion, affiliation and family income.

A high diversity of local medicinal plants (113 species corresponding to 51 families and 102 genera) reveals the prevalence on traditional health medicine even in this modern times. Hence, there is a need for conservation of these medicinal plants along with preservation of the locale’s indigenous knowledge.