Herbs are the bridge between nature and healing.
Part 1
Many studies highlight the significance of indigenous communities’ knowledge regarding traditional healing practices and the use of medicinal plants. In Sarawak, this knowledge not only helps preserve cultural traditions and biodiversity but also plays a crucial role in community healthcare and the development of new drugs.
While numerous studies have documented the medicinal plants used by various ethnic groups in Sarawak — such as the Iban, Bidayuh, Malay, Kadazan, Melanau, and Kenyah — there has been limited research on the Kelabit ethnic group. Our recent trip to the Bario highlands allowed us to document various medicinal plants commonly used by the Kelabit people. In this article, we explore the fascinating world of herbs cherished by the Kelabit people in the stunning Bario Highlands of Sarawak.
Tenom
The Tenom Tree, scientifically known as Piper cubeba, is a shrub that grows wild in the foothills of Pa Lungan village. In the Malay community, this tree is called Lada Ekor due to the tail-like structure on its fruit. The fruit, which is small and clustered on the branches and trunk of the tree, is used by the Kelabit ethnic group to treat stomach aches. The method involves rubbing oil made from the fruit or roots on the affected area. Additionally, the leaves, roots, and shoots of the tree can also help relieve stomach pain.
Jerangau Merah
The scientific name of this herb is Boesenbergia stenophylla. It is one of the most highly prized herbs in Borneo and is especially popular among the Kelabit ethnic group for curing various ailments. This ginger plant thrives in shady, humid environments on hillsides and lowlands. It grows wild in many areas of Bario, particularly in hilly regions. The herb is used to treat poisonous insect stings and stomach aches. The rhizome can be pounded and applied to the affected area or boiled, cooled, and consumed as a drink. It can also be chewed to alleviate stomach pain.
War Berar
War Berar is a type of root that grows wild in moist forest areas and shady environments. This root has stalked, clustered fruit with a hairy surface. Its scientific name is Areangelisia flava (L), and it is commonly known as Akar Kuning in the Malay community. The root is used to treat high blood pressure and body fatigue. The treatment involves scraping the root, soaking it in water, and then drinking the soaking water.
Tongkat Ali
This medicinal plant, known scientifically as Eurycoma longifolia, is popular across many communities in the Southeast Asian region. Among the Malays and Kelabit ethnic groups, this plant serves various purposes. For example, the Kelabit people use it to treat fever, itchy skin, and high blood pressure. The most important part of this plant is the root. It thrives in the shade of larger trees in the forest, in the lowlands, and at the foot of hills. The treatment method involves soaking the Tongkat Ali root in water and drinking the infusion. The root can also be pounded and applied to the affected area.
Way Forward
Numerous researchers have expressed concern about the potential loss of traditional knowledge within indigenous communities. This loss may be attributed to shifting lifestyles, changing priorities, the prevalence of modern amenities, and a decreased reliance on natural resources. Communities with strong cultural ties to their plants may face challenges due to factors such as rural-urban migration. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritise the protection and sharing of traditional knowledge within these communities to support conservation efforts effectively.
Our research team is currently compiling the rich traditional knowledge of medicinal plants among ethnic minorities in Sarawak. Scientific research is underway in laboratories to discover the active components and validate the medicinal benefits of these plants.
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of Sarawak Tribune.
