Effective Ethnomedicinal Plants for Mild COVID-19 Symptoms

Introduction to Ethnomedicinal Practices in Gorontalo

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly disrupted global health and economies, leading to a surge in interest in traditional medicine as a complementary approach to modern treatments. Ethnomedicine, the study of traditional medical practices of specific cultural groups, has long been a cornerstone of healthcare, particularly in regions with rich biodiversity like Gorontalo Province, Indonesia. This area is known for its unique flora, which local communities have utilized for centuries to treat various ailments, including symptoms related to COVID-19.

In Gorontalo, traditional medicinal practices not only reflect the cultural heritage of the region but also represent a vital resource in the search for natural therapies against mild COVID-19 symptoms such as cough, cold, fever, dizziness, and diarrhea. Local knowledge about the use of plants for healing is often passed down through generations, and this study aims to document the medicinal plants used by locals to combat mild symptoms associated with COVID-19.

Common Plants Used for Cough, Cold, and Fever Relief

A total of 82 plant species from 40 families were recorded in an ethnomedicinal survey conducted among 105 local residents in Gorontalo. Here are some key plants identified for treating common cold and cough:

1. Plectranthus scutellarioides (L.) R.Br. - This plant is predominantly used for treating cough, with 41 use reports (UR).
2. Zingiber officinale Roscoe - Commonly known as ginger, it is utilized for colds with 24 UR, and is noted for its anti-inflammatory properties.
3. Bryophyllum pinnatum (Lam.) Oken - Used for fever management, this plant has a significant number of citations indicating its importance in local healthcare practices.

Table 1: Plants for Cough, Cold, and Fever Relief

Key Plant Species for Treating Dizziness and Diarrhea

Dizziness and diarrhea are other symptoms associated with mild COVID-19. The following plants have been recognized for their efficacy:

1. Allium sativum L. - Garlic is cited for its role in treating dizziness with 17 UR.
2. Psidium guajava L. - Common guava, used extensively for diarrhea, has a high index value with 69 UR.

Table 2: Plants for Dizziness and Diarrhea

Preparation Methods for Medicinal Plants in Gorontalo

The preparation of these medicinal plants typically involves various methods, with boiling being the most prevalent (31.70%). Other methods include pounding and filtering (28.30%) and brewing (16.23%). The preference for boiling is due to its effectiveness in extracting active ingredients while preserving medicinal properties.

Table 3: Preparation Methods for Medicinal Plants

Safety and Side Effects of Ethnomedicinal Remedies

While the use of ethnomedicinal plants in Gorontalo shows promise, it is essential to consider safety. Most informants reported no serious side effects; however, some plants, such as Artocarpus altilis and Ocimum basilicum, were noted for causing drowsiness. These insights are critical for guiding safe usage and promoting awareness of potential adverse effects.

Table 4: Reported Side Effects from Ethnomedicinal Plants

Importance of Traditional Knowledge in Modern Healthcare

The integration of traditional knowledge into modern healthcare systems is increasingly recognized as vital for improving health outcomes. The use of ethnomedicinal plants not only preserves cultural heritage but also provides a sustainable and accessible means of healthcare, particularly in remote areas with limited access to conventional medical facilities. Continued research on the efficacy and safety of these plants can lead to scientific validation of their medicinal properties, enhancing their role in healthcare.

FAQs

What are ethnomedicinal plants?

Ethnomedicinal plants are those used in traditional medicine practices by specific cultural groups. They are often utilized for their therapeutic properties in treating various ailments.

How were the plants used for COVID-19 symptoms identified?

The plants were identified through an ethnobotanical survey involving interviews and questionnaires with local residents knowledgeable about their traditional uses.

Are there any side effects associated with these medicinal plants?

While most plants showed no serious side effects, some, like Artocarpus altilis and Ocimum basilicum, were reported to cause drowsiness in some individuals.

Why is traditional knowledge important in modern healthcare?

Traditional knowledge provides valuable insights into natural remedies that can complement modern treatments, especially in areas with limited access to conventional healthcare.

What preparation methods are commonly used for these plants?

Common preparation methods include boiling, pounding, filtering, and brewing, each chosen for its effectiveness in extracting the plant’s beneficial compounds.

References

1. Ekasari, W., Widyowati, R., Purwitasari, N., Suryadi, A. M., & Sahu, R. K. (2025). Ethnomedicinal Survey of Plants Used for Treatment of Mild COVID-19-Related Symptoms in Gorontalo Province, Indonesia. Scientifica
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