Perception and Appreciation of the Sumba Tribe in West Umbu Ratu Nggay District towards the Utilization of Medicinal Plant Diversity in Central Sumba Regency

Abstract

An ethnobotanical study was conducted to inventory medicinal plants by in the Sumba Tribe of West Umbu Ratu Nggay District, and to determine local perceptions and appreciation of the medicinal plants. Data collection was carried out using direct and indirect interviews. Informants of this study totaled 93 local people, consisting of Sumbanese tribes including village shamans and village elders. This study used data analysis on the perception and appreciation of the use of medicinal plants by the Sumba tribe. Plants obtained from local communities were collected, identified, and documented. The results of the study found 54 species of medicinal plants with 33 families used to treat various diseases in West Umbu Ratu Nggay District. Plants recommended by the Sumba tribe include: Swietenia macrophylla King (mahoni) (0.11%), Acorus calamus L. (genoak/ hiku) (0.10%), Jatropha curcas L. (padamu) (0.10%). The Sumba tribe's perception of the use of medicinal plants with a percentage of 99% (very good) and community appreciation of the use of medicinal plants at 97% (very good).