Community knowledge of family medicinal plants by age and education in Pusu Village Residents

ABSTRACT

Family Medicinal Plants (Tanaman Obat Keluarga, TOGA) constitute an important component of local knowledge that supports family health. However, evidence regarding the relationship between demographic characteristics and community knowledge of TOGA utilization and cultivation among indigenous communities in peri-urban transitional areas remains limited. This study aimed to analyze community knowledge of TOGA utilization and cultivation and to examine its relationship with age and educational level among the Dawan (Amanuban) sub-ethnic community in Pusu Village, South Central Timor Regency, Indonesia. A quantitative study employing a descriptive-analytical design was conducted. A total of 53 respondents were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and Spearman's rank correlation test at a 5% significance level. The results showed that most respondents had a low level of knowledge regarding the utilization (73.6%) and cultivation (71.7%) of TOGA. Correlation analysis revealed that age was not significantly associated with knowledge of TOGA utilization (ρ = 0.172, p = 0.219) or cultivation (ρ = 0.031, p = 0.823). Similarly, educational level was not significantly associated with knowledge of TOGA utilization (ρ = 0.268, p = 0.052) or cultivation (ρ = −0.003, p = 0.984). These findings indicate that the distribution of TOGA-related knowledge among the Dawan (Amanuban) community is not significantly influenced by age or formal educational attainment. Therefore, community-based educational programs that engage all demographic groups are needed to promote the preservation and sustainable utilization of TOGA.