Utilization of Polygala paniculata L. Plants as Traditional Medicine by the Community of Borani Langa Village, Ngada Regency

Abstract

Medical plants are types of plants that have medical benefits for humans and are commonly found in the surrounding environment and in forests. The plant Polygala paniculata L., also known as the fragrant root plant, is widely found in the Ngada Regency area. Polygala paniculata L. typically grows in yards, gardens, and along roadsides. Considering the strong relationship of the community with cultural traditions and the basic need of the community to use medicinal plants to cure various diseases, the utilization of medicinal plants in the community will continue to increase. This research aims to determine the benefits of the Polygala paniculata L. plant as a traditional medicinal plant in the yards and gardens of the Borani Langa Village community in Ngada Regency, as not many people or the community are aware of the benefits or efficacy of this plant. The method used is a qualitative descriptive method. The research was conducted through observation in Borani Langa Village, Ngada Regency. The results of the study indicate that the people of Borani Langa Village, Ngada Regency, are aware of the medicinal properties of the Polygala paniculata L. plant as traditional medicine. The part of the Polygala paniculata L. plant that is effective in curing certain types of diseases is the root. The Polygala paniculata L. plant is processed by boiling it with coconut oil until it reaches a boil, then cooling it down and storing it in a clean bottle. The way to utilize the Polygala paniculata L. plant is by massaging the painful area and applying it to the nose. As a traditional medicine, Polygala paniculata L. can cure diseases such as flu, pain, and muscle aches.