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Maximus M. Taek, Dwi Wahyuni, Hestiyana, Riani · IALLT Journal of Language Learning Technologies · 1992
This study aimed to document the use of medicinal plants by the Dayak people for the care of pregnant and postpartum women in Sanggau Regency, West Kalimantan Province, Indonesia. The study was a qualitative research, conducted in the field from April to May 2025. Twenty-one informants (12 women and 9 men) involved in data collection through in-depth interviews were selected based on community information regarding their knowledge of traditional medicine. The results identified 72 plant species used in various forms of traditional care and treatment for pregnant and postpartum women. These plants are used in four main ways viz. ingested as herbal concoctions, used for bathing, used in massage practices, and as body rub. Most of the plants used have specific properties, including improving blood circulation, relieving pain, accelerating uterine healing, increasing breast milk production, and maintaining fitness after childbirth. Based on a review of the chemical, biological, and pharmacological literature, many of these plants have been confirmed to contain active compounds such as flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and essential oils, which have pharmacological activities consistent with their intended use by the Dayak people. These results indicated a strong relationship between traditional knowledge and modern scientific findings, and thus emphasize the importance of preserving local ethnobotanical knowledge as part of cultural heritage and the potential for developing natural medicines based on local wisdom.