Ethnobotanical exploration and biodiversity conservation of Mt. Nacolod, Southern Leyte, Philippines

J. Bio. & Env. Sci. 20 23 217 | Abayon RE RERE RESEARCH SEARCHSEARCH SEARCH PAPER PAPERPAPER PAPER OPEN ACCESS OPEN ACCESSOPEN ACCESS OPEN ACCESS Ethnobotanical exploration and biodiversity conservation of Mt. Nacolod, Southern Leyte, Philippines Myra A. Abayon * Leyte Normal University, Leyte, Philippines Article published on July 17, 2023 Key words: Biodiversity conservation, Healing , Medicinal plants, Traditional knowledge, Knowledge transfer Abstract This study was conducted in Mt. Nacolod, Southern Leyte, Philippines, to document traditional healing potential and practices of medicinal plants. The knowledge of traditional healing practices in Southern Leyte is at risk of being lost due to lack of knowledge transfer and an aging population of traditional healers. Focus group discussions were used to document 55 plant species used in traditional healing. These plants have been used to treat various ailments such as hypertension, kidney and bladder problems, diabetes and anemia, bonerelated and abdominal problems, stomach illnesses, and dengue fever.Among the 55 plant species documented in this study are the following: Allium sativum, Andropogon citratus, and Peperomia pellucida for hypertension; Peperomia pellucida, Cocos nucifera, Lagerstroemia speciosa, and Dipterocarpus grandiflorus for kidney and bladder problems; Annona muricata, Momordica charantia, and Moringa oleifera for diabetes and anemia; Moringa oleifera as a galactagogue; Jatropha curcas, Justicia gendarussa, and Curcuma domestica for bone-related and abdominal problems; Carica papaya, Chrysanthemum indicum, Chrysophyllum caimito and Polyscias nodosa for stomach illnesses; Ananas comosus as an anthelmintic; Persea americana and Psidium guajava for diarrhea. It is crucial to recognize the importance of traditional ecological knowledge and to promote sustainable conservation practices. The results of the study can help attain several Sustainable Development Goals, including good health and well-being by promoting traditional healing practices that can improve health outcomes, climate action by promoting biodiversity conservation, and life on land by promoting the conservation of medicinal plants and traditional ecological knowledge. Moreover, the study highlights the need for knowledge transfer to the younger generation and the importance of promoting sustainable practices for the well-being of local communities. * Corresponding Author: Myra A. Abayon  [email protected] Journal of Biodiversity and Environmental Sciences (JBES) ISSN: 2220-6663 (Print) 2222-3045 (Online) Vol. 23, No. 1, p. 217-230, 2023 http://www.innspub.net J. Bio. & Env. Sci. 20 23 218 | Abayon Introduction During ancient times, indigenous tribes in the Philippines successfully combated illnesses and diseases by relying on traditional healing practices that predate the advent of modern medicine. This invaluable knowledge has been passed down through generations and remains in use today for treating various ailments (Abe and Ohtani, 2013; Balinado and Chan, 2016). Despite the Philippines being recognized as a biodiversity hotspot with a wealth of traditional medicinal plants, there is a lack of comprehensive documentation regarding the specific plant species employed in traditional healing (Myers et al, 2000; Olowa et al., 2012; Tantengco et a., 2018; Pinarok et al., 2015). The timely documentation and prioritization of traditional healing knowledge, specifically concerning the endemic plant species found in the Philippines, hold immense significance. Given that these plants are unique to the country and specific regions within it, it becomes crucial to record and conserve this valuable resource. This urgency arises from the rapid conversion of rural areas for alternative land use purposes, leading to habitat destruction, dwindling plant populations, and even the risk of species extinction. Additionally, the introduction of modern medicine in remote regions has contributed to the decline of traditional healing practices among younger generations (Gruyal et al., 2014). Conducting ethnobotanical studies would greatly assist biomedical researchers in identifying targets for scientific investigation, which could ultimately result in the development of new plant-based medicines (Balangcod and Balangcod, 2015; Fiscal, 2017). An expedient ethnobotanical documentation process, along with the identification of suitable conservation initiatives and priority species, could help prevent further degradation of habitats, loss of species, and foster a more positive attitude towards plant conservation within local communities (Angagan et al., 2013). The objective of this research is to document the utilization of medicinal plants in traditional healing within the remote communities of Mt. Nacolod, located in the rural municipality of Southern, Leyte, Philippines. It is noteworthy that these regions experienced severe devastation caused by typhoon Haiyan in November 2013, leading to the destruction of numerous plants and their natural ecosystems. This study holds the potential to shed light on lesserknown plant species that exhibit promising biomedical applications, deserving further scientific exploration. Moreover, the study also investigates the crucial factors that should be considered when planning conservation initiatives by gaining insights into the local communities' perceptions and attitudes towards the preservation of medicinal plants. Materials and methods Study Area The study sites chosen for research were the remote barangays of Barangay, Katipunan, Catmon and Bobon in Mt. Nacolod, Silago Leyte, Philippines. These barangays were selected due to the presence of elderly residents who possess valuable knowledge about the traditional use of medicinal plants. Geographically, these villages are situated far from the main municipal town and lack paved roads. Additionally, the majority of the residents in these barangays are economically disadvantaged, which further promotes the practice of traditional healing. These three (3) barangays are a direct part of Mt. Nacolod and span a total land area of 14,000 hectares and is home to 197 households and 1,900 residents. Mt. Nacolod is a very high priority key biodiversity area (KBA). It is a prime location for the region’s flora and fauna, being home to more than half of Leyte's known plant species. It harbors 134 birds, 111 herpetofauna species, and almost all known mammal species recorded in this area. A recent survey of this KBA also brought new discoveries of volant mammals, cinnamon, and two new frog species of the Platymantis family. However, the conservation of Mt. Nacolod is still challenged by illegal collection and poaching of wildlife, conversion to agricultural use, and conflicting land tenurialship, among others. Data collection and analysis Every household in the three (3) barangays was visited, and regardless of age and gender, residents J. Bio. & Env. Sci. 20 23 219 | Abayon with knowledge of medicinal plants and traditional healing were personally invited to participate in a focus group discussion (FGD). The objectives of the FGD were explained during the initial house visits. To guide the discussion, an open-ended questionnaire was used, with 20 respondents actively providing information and considered as participants for the first FGD session. Other attendees who lacked knowledge were not actively engaged. Throughout the study, respondents freely shared their knowledge on medicinal plants and were not coerced in any manner. Interviews were conducted in the local dialect (kana) to facilitate comprehensive data collection. Local guides with expertise in plant identification assisted in collecting photographs and specimens of the plants mentioned during the FGD from the study areas. To assess the villagers' perception towards the conservation of medicinal plants, a separate round of focus group discussions (FGDs) was conducted using a distinct open-ended questionnaire. However, only ten out of the original 20 respondents from the first village agreed to participate in this subsequent FGD session. To ensure consistency, ten respondents were also selected from the second village. During the second FGD session, plant specimens that had been collected earlier were presented to the respondents to verify their identification. The collected plant specimens were then taken to the Biology Laboratory of Leyte Normal University and were furtherly identified and confirmed by a botanist from Visayas State University. Scientific names of the plants with detailed classifications from family down to the species level were provided. After identification, the plant specimens were pressed for inclusion in the herbarium collection and stored at Biology Laboratory of Leyte Normal University, Leyte, Philippines. To complement the botanical data, the assistance of a local general physician was sought to identify the English names of the illnesses and diseases mentioned during the FGD. This collaboration helped bridge the gap between traditional knowledge and medical terminology. The perception of the villagers regarding the conservation of medicinal plants was assessed by considering factors such as the supply of medicinal plants, the frequency of extraction, and cultivation practices. These aspects were explored during the FGD sessions to gain a comprehensive understanding of the villagers' attitudes and practices towards the preservation of medicinal plants. Results and discussion Plants in Mt. Nacolod used in traditional healing practice Table 1 presents a comprehensive compilation of 55 medicinal plant species found in Mt. Nacolod that are utilized in traditional healing within the three (3) barangays. The prevalent plant components utilized in these practices encompass leaves, flowers, stems/barks, and roots. Among the various methods employed, the application of leaf and root poultice, as well as the consumption of fresh extract or decoction derived from leaves and roots, were most frequently reported. Respondents attested to the effectiveness of these plants in treating the specified ailments and diseases. They further expressed a reliance on medicinal plants for the treatment of common ailments, thus minimizing their visits to medical professionals. As indicated in Table 1, many medicinal plant species identified in this study remain largely unexplored from a scientific perspective, with the majority of reported scientific investigations being carried out by researchers from overseas. There is still much work to be done in drawing attention to the lesser-known plants that hold tremendous potential for biomedical applications. Based on their diverse reported uses in this study and various ethnobotanical studies conducted throughout the Philippines, the following plant species merit further investigation: Acorus calamus, Annona muricata, Areca catechu, Artemisia vulgaris, Bambusa vulgaris, Bixa orellana, and Blumea balsamifera. Notably, two plant species, known locally as gandi and kadna-kadna, have specific applications for paralysis and hemonausea, respectively. Due to their absence in the study area, these two species J. Bio. & Env. Sci. 20 23 220 | Abayon should be prioritized for cultivation and conservation efforts, recognizing their potential value and the need to safeguard them. By focusing on these priority species, we can expand our understanding of their medicinal properties and contribute to their preservation for future generations. Table 1. Ethnobotanical documentation in Mt. Nacolod, Southern Leyte. 1 SN: Acorus calamus L.; Acoraceae ; LN: Lubigan ; CN: Sweet flag. Cultivated. MU: Fever - drink a leaf decoction for colds, snakebite, flatulence, stomachache, urinary tract infection, digestive disorders, and dysentery. 2 SN: Ageratum conyzoides L.; Asteraceae; LN: Kurokanding ; CN: Billy goat weed. Not cultivated. MU: apply leaf extract on the wound. Also use in treating diarrhea, headache, painful earache (otalgia), kidney disease, miscarriage, cervical cancer, ring worms, oral thrush, xiphoidalgia, diarrhea, colic pain, tonsillitis, cutaneous eruptions, diarrhea [ and internal bleeding. 3 SN: Allium sativum L.; Alliaceae ; LN: Lasuna ; CN: Garlic. Not cultivated. MU: Hypertension, anti - oxidant, dog bite, ascariasis, body chills, toothache, abdominal pain, snake bites, toothache, intestinal worms in pigs, Urrinary retention, conjunctivitis, allergy itching larynx, flatulence, sciatica, cardiovascular disorders, convulsions, diabetes, cataract, renal failure, ulcer, arthritis, rheumatism, cuts, toxic fish stings, insect bites, asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia and respiratory disorders, colds, earache, gastrointestinal disorders, and anthelmintic. 4 SN: Ananas comosus (L.) Merr.; Bromeliaceae; LN: Pinya ; CN: Pineapple. Cultivated. MU, for fever - apply pound leaves as poultice on the forehead; Anthelmintic - consume unripe fruit, Constipation, fever, anthelmintic, diabetes, ringworm, hypertension, anthelmintic, yellow fever, ulcers, allergy, scoliosis, A nthelmintic, purgative, cystitis, diuretic, abortifacient, bladder problems, whooping cough in children. 5 SN: Andropogon citratus hort. Poaceae; LN: Tanglad ; CN: Lemongrass. Cultivated. MU: Hypertension - use leaves as food ingredient, hypertension, toothache, hypertension, arthritis, anemia, swelling, joint pains, hypertension, cough, fresh wound, diarrhea, colds stomachache, UTI, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nervousness, difficulty in urinating, flu, nasal congestion, flatulence, for newborn child; diabetes, headache, low blood pressure, colds, post pregnancy. 6 SN: Annona muricata L.; Annonaceae ; LN: Guanaba ; CN: Soursop. Cultivated. MU: Diarrhea - drink a leaf decoction for diarrhea, cancer, diabetes, ascariasis, hypertension, hyperacidity, urination difficulty, cough, headache, hepatitis, flatulence, stomachache, cancer, diabetes, diarrhea, cough, arthritis, abdominal discomfort, stomachache, goiter, cyst, UTI, uric acid, cough, abdominal pain, wound infection, dizziness, fever, fish poisoning, epilepsy, febrifuge, headache, diarrhea, dysentery, wounds, mouth sores, respiratory illness, gastrointestinal and hypoglycemic problems. 7 SN : Aralia balfouriana hort.; Araliaceae; LN: Kapwa; CN: Balfours aralia. Cultivated. MU: Paralysis - apply heated and pound leaves on affected area. 8 SN: Areca catechu L.; Arecaceae; LN: Bunga; CN: Betel nut plant. Cultivated. MU: Muscle paindrink a root decoction, ascariasis, abdominal pain, toothache, to strength en teeth, skin diseases, eczema, wound, postpartum care, indigestion, flatulence, cough, astringent, anthelmintic, anti-hyperglycemic. 9 SN: Artemisia vulgaris L.; Asteraceae; LN: Herba maria; CN: Mugwort. Cultivated. MU: Fever, hemonausea - drink a root decoction; Anthelmintic - Drink a leaf decoction; Stomachache - drink a leaf decoction or use leaves as poultice on stomach, stomachache, Cough, fever, headache, abdominal and body pains, hyperacidity, colds, asthma, abdominal discomfort, f latulence, sprain, skin disease, hemorrhage, dyspepsia, dysmennorhea, rubefacient, swollen muscles, skin disease Blood vomiting, lung disease, ringworm, sore throat, colds, phlegm, deworming agent, and leucorrhea. J. Bio. & Env. Sci. 20 23 221 | Abayon 10 SN: Bambusa vulgaris Schrad. ex J.C. Wendl.; Poaceae; LN: Kawayan; CN: Bamboo. Cultivated.MU: Hypertension - drink a leaf decoction, for allergy nervous breakdown, fish poisoning, hypertension, postpartum care, cough, colds 11 SN: Bixa orellana L.; Bixaceae; LN: Siyotes/ Achuete/ Annato; CN: Lipstick plant. Cultivated.MU: Diarrhea, stomachache - apply a warm leaf poultice on the stomach; insomnia, dysmenorrhea, irregular menstruation - drink a root decoction; fever - apply a warm leaf poultice on the forehead, burns, cough, sprain, headache, fever, arthritis, dysentery, and insomnia. 12 SN: Blumea balsamifera DC.; Asteraceae; LN: Gabon; CN: Blumea camphor. Cultivated. MU: Rheumatism, arthritis, osteoarthritis - use leaf decoction for a hot foot bath; Cough - drink leaf extract; stomachache – apply a leaf poultice on the stomach, cough, UTI, colds, fever, boils, headache, hypertension, urination difficulty, abdominal pain, body pains, sore throat, post-partum care, fever, kidney infection, rheumatism, famish , malaria, hypertension, arthriti s, stomachache, body pain, diabetes, spasm, flatulence, overfatigue, diabetes, stomachache, asthma [renal stones, edema, muscle pain, rheumatism, kidney stones. 13 SN: Carica papaya L. (male); Caricaceae; LN: Kapaya; CN: Papaya. Cultivated. MU: Dengue (to increase platelet count) - drink leaf extract; Skin problems - apply leaf extract on skin areas with discoloration, scar, sunburn, & pimples; Warts - apply sap from leaf stalk. 14 SN: Chrysanthemum indicum L.; Asteraceae; LN: Herba mansanilla; CN: Chrysa nthemum. Cultivated. MU: Stomachache - drink a leaf decoction or apply a warm leaf poultice on the stomach 15 SN: Chrysophyllum cainito L.; Sapotaceae; LN: Kayomito; CN: Star apple. Cultivated.MU: Diarrhea, tuberculosis - drink leaf decoction; Hemonausea - consume the fruit or drink a decoction of avocado, guava, and caimito leaves. 16 SN: Citrus maxima (Burm.) Merr.; Rutaceae; LN: Aslom/suha; CN: Pomelo. Cultivated. MU: Rheumatism, arthritis, osteoarthritis - use a leaf decoction for a hot foot bath 1 7 SN: Citrus medica L.; Rutaceae; LN: Sidra; CN: Citron. Cultivated. MU: Headache - crush all plant parts and apply directly on the forehead as poultice. Diphtheria, fever, rheumatism, cough, respiratory congestion, fever, colds, liver, gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, ulcer, and antimicrobial. 18 SN: Citrus x microcarpa Bunge; Rutaceae; LN: Lemonsito/Kalamansi; CN: Citrus. Cultivated. MU: Colds, cough - drink warm fruit juice, cough, colds, hypertension, dandruff, infant care, sore throat, high fever, scurvy. 19 SN: Clerodendrum minahassae Teijsm. & Binn.; Lamiaceae; LN: Danata; CN: Tube flower. Cultivated. MU: Diarrhea - apply a warm leaf poultice on the stomach; Fever - apply a warm leaf poultice on the forehead, headache, swollen muscle. 21 SN: Corypha elata Roxb.; Arecaceae; LN: Buri; CN: Buri palm. Not cultivated. MU: Diarrhea - drink a root and leaf decoction; Wound - apply a leaf stalk extract on the wound. 22 SN : Curcuma domestica Valeton; Zingiberaceae; LN:Dulaw; CN: Turmeric. Cultivated. MU. Constipation, cytitis (UTI) - apply a warm leaf poultice on the stomach; Fever - apply a pound leaf poultice on the forehead; Arthritis, diarrhea, abdominal pain, flatulence, hypertension. 23 SN: Cynodon dactylon L. Pers.; Poaceae; LN: Bermuda; CN: Bermuda grass. Cultivated. MU: Hypertension - drink a leaf decoction, also use for kidney stones and hair fall. 24 SN: Cyperus kyllingia Endl.; Cyperaceae; LN: Baro - batones. Not cultivated. MU: fever - drink a leaf decoction. Use as analgesic, antidiabetic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and hepatoprotective. 25 SN: Cyperus rotundus L.; Cyperaceae; LN: Sud - sod; CN: Cocograss. Not cultivated.MU: Hangover, stomachache, and Dyspepsia - drink a rhizome decoction. 26 SN: Dioscorea hispida Dennst.; Dioscoreaceae; LN: Kurot; CN: Asiatic bitter yam. Not cultivated. MU: Wound, dog bites and rabies - apply pound tuber directly on the wound and affected areas. J. Bio. & Env. Sci. 20 23 222 | Abayon 27 SN: Ehretia acuminata R.Br.; Boraginaceae; LN: Anonang; CN: Koda. Cultivated. MU: Fever - apply pound leaves as poultice on the forehead or drink a leaf decoction. 28 SN: Eleusine indica (L.) Gaertn.; Poaceae; LN: Talab - angan; CN: Goose grass. Not cultivated.MU: metrorrhagiadrink a leaf decoction to stop bleeding after child birth; muscle pain - drink a root decoction. Use for newborn and post-partum care, hair loss, cuts and wounds, fracture, dislocation, internal bleeding, cramps, and spasm. 29 SN: Erythrina orientalis Murray; Erythrina variegata L.; Leguminosae; LN: Dapdap. Not cultivated. MU: Rheumatism, arthritis - use leaves for a hot foot bath; fever, cough - drink a cool leaf decoction. 30 SN: Etlingera elatior (Jack) R.M.Sm.; Zingiberaceae; LN: Tikala; CN: Torch ginger. Not cultivated. MU: Cough - apply a warm flower poultice on the chest; Fever - drink a tuber decoction; Hemorrhoids - apply a warm leaf stalk poultice on the affected area. 31 SN: Euphorbia hirta L.; Euphorbiaceae; LN: Gatas - gatas; CN: Australian asthma weed. Not cultivated. MU: Dengue, fever - drink plant decoction; swelling lymph nodes - apply a pound leaf poultice on affected area. 32 SN: Eurycles amboinensis (L.) Lindl.; Amaryllidaceae; LN: Abod; CN: Brisbane Lily. Cultivated. MU: Boils and abscesses - apply pound leaves on the affected area. 33 SN :Gossypium hirsutum L.; Malvaceae ; LN: Kapok; CN: Silk cotton tree. Cultivated. MU. For asthma - drink a root decoction. PH: flatulence [C]; postpartum care – drink a decoctionn 34 SN: Hibiscus rosa - sinensis L.; Malvaceae; LN: Takoranga; CN: Gumamela . Cultivated. MU: boils and abscesses - apply pound flowers on the affected area. swellings, bruises, anti-inflammatory 35 SN: Homalomena philippinensis Engl.; Araceae; LN: Payaw; CN: Payau. Cultivated. MU: Rheumatism, arthritis, osteoarthritis and “beri-beri” - apply a decoction of sundried corm or apply a warm leaf poultice overnight on the affected area; headache - apply a warm leaf poultice on the forehead; hemorrhoids, somahcache - apply a warm leaf poultice on the affected area; paralysis - apply warm pound leaves on the affected area; sore throat - drink a corm decoction. 36 SN: Hyptis capitata Jacq.; Lamiaceae; LN: Burunganon (red); CN: Ironwort. Not cultivated.TS: Fever, cytitis (UTI) - drink a root decoction; Blood in the stool - drink a leaf decoction. For Abdominal discomfort, stomachache, dyspepsia, diarrhea. 37 SN: Jatropha curcas L.; Euphorbiaceae; LN: Tuba; CN: Physic nut. Cultivated. MU: Bone fracture/ dislocations, muscle pain - apply a warm leaf poultice on the affected area; Cough - apply a warm leaf poultice on the chest and back or consume the leaf extract; Fever - apply breast milk on a warm leaf and place on the forehead to bring head temperature down; Stomachache - apply a warm leaf poultice on the stomach. 38 SN: Justicia gendarussa Burm. f.; Acanthaceae; LN: Kalampisaw; CN: Yellow - leaved justicia . Cultivated. MU: Rheumatism, arthritis, osteoarthritis - use a leaf decoction for a hot foot bath; Bone fracture/ dislocations - apply a warm leaf poultice on the affected area or use a leaf decoction as a hot bath; Muscle pain, hemorrhoids – apply a leaf poultice on the affected area; Stomachache – apply a warm leaf poultice on the stomach. 39 SN: Kaempferia galanga L.; Zingiberaceae; LN: Kusol; CN: Aromatic ginger; Cultivated. MU: Colds - place the chopped tuber inside the baby’s pillow or make a baby’s bracelet made of tuber; Fever - soak rhizome in cool drinking water. 40 SN: Kalanchoe pinnata (Lam.) Pers.; Crassulaceace; LN: Sampraviva ; CN: Life plant. Cultivated.MU: Headache - apply a crushed bark and fruit peeling poultice on the forehead; mumps - apply a crushed leaf poultice on the affected area; stomachache - apply a warm leaf poultice on the stomach; toothache - apply a warm leaf poultice on the cheek to reduce the pain. J. Bio. & Env. Sci. 20 23 223 | Abayon 41 SN: Lagerstroemia speciosa Pers.; Lythraceae; LN: Banaba; CN: Giant crepe - myrtle. Cultivated.MU: Kidney problem - drink a leaf decoction. 42 SN: Lansium domesticum Corr.; Meliaceae; LN: Lansones; CN: Langsat . Cultivated. MU : Blisters - cook the bark in coconut oil and apply on blisters. 43 SN: Lantana camara L.; Verbenaceae; LN: Baho - baho/Kantutay ; CN: Lantana. Not cultivated.MU: Cough - drink a lea/flower decoction. Use for headache, sleeplessness, fatigue, postpartum care, dysmenorrhea, delayed menstruation, scabies, and indigestion. 44 SN : Luffa acutangula (L.) Roxb.; Cucurbitaceae; LN: Patola ; CN: Bath sponge. Cultivated.MU: Skin problems - apply a leaf extract on the skin area with discoloration, scar, sunburn, and pimples. 45 SN: Mangifera indica L.; Anacardiaceae; LN: Mangga; CN: Mango. Cultivated. MU: Cough - drink a leaf decoction. Use to treat diarrhea, sore throat, dysmenorrhea, wounds, and scabies. 46 SN: Mentha sp .; Lamiaceae; LN: Herba - ulot. Cultivated. MU: hypertension, stomachache - drink a leaf decoction. 47 SN: Michelia champaca L.; Magnoliaceae; LN: Tsampaka; CN: Champaca . Cultivated. MU: Boil and abscessesapply pound leaves on the abscess; Glossitis - drop leaf extract on baby’s tongue; Hemonausea - Drink a root decoction. 48 SN: Mimosa pudica L.; Mimosaceae; LN: Harupay; CN: Touch - me - not. Not cultivated.MU: Hemonausea , dysmenorrhea and irregular menstruation - drink a root decoction. 49 SN: Momordica charantia L.; Cucurbitaceae; LN: Marigoso ; CN: Bitter gourd. Cultivated.MU: Cough - drink the leaf extract; Diabetes - pulverize sun-dried fruits and leaves and mix in drinks; Hemorrhoids - apply leaf extract on hemorrhoids; Hypertension – ingest mature sun-dried seeds. 50 SN: Moringa oleifera Lam.; Moringaceae; LN: Malunggay; CN: Horse radish tree. Cultivated.MU: Diabetes - take 5 pcs of sun-dried seeds before each meal; Hypertension - take sun-dried seeds; Galactagogue, blood in the stool - use leaves as food ingredient; Stomachache - mix crushed dried seeds in food or drinks; Toothache (tooth decay) - apply pound bark/stem on tooth cavity. 51 SN: Musa paradisiaca L.; Musaceae; LN: Baloy/ Bungan; CN: Banana. Cultivated.MU: Hemonausea - drink a leaf decoction; Wound - apply leaf sap on wound. PH: Abatement of bleeding wounds [J]; Cuts and wounds, boils, fever, headache [A]; Cuts and wounds, skin rash, diarrhea, gingivitis, blood circulation enhancer [K]; wounds, bleeding [C]; wounds [E]; diarrhea, indigestion, high/low blood pressure, toothache, sprain, indigestion [M]. OC: Pre-leprosy, rash [O3]; Backache, dysentery [O4]; Dysentery, dental problems, headache, antiseptic, wounds, diuretic, dysentery, burns [O2] 52 SN: Peperomia pelluci da (L.) Kunth; Piperaceae; LN: Sinaw - sinaw; CN: Pepper elder. Not cultivated. MU: Fever, headache - apply a pound leaf poultice on the forehead or drink a leaf decoction; Hypertension - drink a root decoction; kidney problem - drink a whole plant decoction. 53 SN: Persea americana Mill.; Lauraceae; LN: Abukado; CN: Avocado. Cultivated. MU: diarrhea - drink leaf decoction; dysmenorrhea, irregular menstruation - mix pound sun-dried seeds in drinks; hemonausea - consume the fruit or drink a leaf decoction of combined avocado, guava, and caimito. 54 SN: Piper betle L.; Piperaceae; LN: Buyo; CN: Betel leaf pepper. Cultivated. MU: Ptyalism, stomachache - apply a leaf poultice on the stomach. 55 SN: Plectranthus amboinicus (Lour.) Spreng.; Coleus aromaticus Benth.; Lamiaceae; LN: Kalabo; CN: Oregano. Cultivated. MU: Cough - drink leaf extract. Legend: SN: Scientific name; LN: Local name (Waray); CN: Common name. MU: Medicinal use in this study . The Significance of Ethnobotanical Documentation and Conservation Endeavors The invaluable traditional healing knowledge is at risk of permanent disappearance, as the transfer of generational wisdom has significantly declined. Notably, the majority of respondents who possessed knowledge were older residents, aged between 35 and 80 in Brgy. Ktipunan (with a mean age of 58) and J. Bio. & Env. Sci. 20 23 224 | Abayon between 40 and 75 in Brgy. Catmon (with a mean age of 57). However, younger generations showed little interest in learning these practices, as villagers aged 10 to 38 were unable to provide information about traditional healing methods. This decline in knowledge acquisition among the younger population may be attributed to parents increasingly adopting modern treatment approaches, driven by factors such as affordability and convenience of readily available medicines. Additionally, improved accessibility through road infrastructure and transportation systems from the town center to the villages may have further reinforced the preference for modern treatments. Given the average life expectancy of Filipino farmers (57 years old), it is alarming to realize that this invaluable knowledge could be completely forgotten within the next few years. Compounding the situation is the rampant land use conversion, not only in the study area but throughout the country. Rapid human settlements are encroaching into remote areas, transforming vast farmlands into residential zones and converting forested areas into agricultural or residential spaces. Such land use conversion and associated human activities are undoubtedly causing alterations to natural ecosystems, disrupting and destroying plant habitats, reducing plant populations, and leading to species loss. The convergence of declining interest in traditional healing practices, coupled with the rapid and extensive land use conversion, underscores the critical necessity for a comprehensive nationwide ethnobotanical documentation effort. It is imperative to identify appropriate conservation initiatives and prioritize species for conservation measures. Furthermore, conducting extensive scientific and biomedical studies on the identified medicinal plants holds promise in retaining traditional knowledge, safeguarding ecosystems, preserving plant habitats, and nurturing communities in the long term. Alternative Applications, Availability, Cultivation, and Extraction Methods of Medicinal Plants Fig. 1(a-c) presents the non-medicinal uses, supply, and extraction practices (both cultivated and noncultivated) of the identified medicinal plants, as perceived by the respondents. Fig. 1a illustrates that the majority of villagers cultivate plants primarily for food consumption (36%) and housingmedicinal purposes (24.0%). Among the 55 (76.9%) cultivated medicinal plant species, 36 (46.2%) are utilized as food and food ingredients (25 species), for housing and furniture materials (three species), as ornamental plants (six species), for cotton used in pillows (Gossypium hirsutum L.), and for weaning and abortion purposes (Tinospora rumphii Boerl.). Additionally, 24 medicinal plant species are exclusively cultivated for traditional healing practices, highlighting the significance villagers place on these plants. This may explain why a greater number of cultivated plants (25 species or 32.5%) have maintained or even increased their population in both study areas (Fig. 1b). Moreover, the seasonality of certain plant species (24.0%) might have limited overharvesting (Fig. 1c). However, despite the cultivation of numerous plant species, the supply of 28 cultivated species has shown a decline (36.4%), with six species either maintaining their supply status or experiencing a decrease (7.8%). This suggests a diminishing trend in cultivation practices (Fig. 1b). Respondents cited a lack of time and interest in medicinal plant cultivation as the primary reasons for this decline in supply. Additionally, Fig. 1a highlights that there are eighteen (18) medicinal plants that are not cultivated (23.1%), and among these, fourteen (7) plants are not utilized for any other purposes (13%). Within the uncultivated plant species, one species, Michelia champaca, is locally extinct, and three species, Euphorbia hirta L., Piper sp., and Senna alata L., have shown a decline in supply in both study areas (Fig. 1b). Furthermore, the supply of the non-cultivated seasonal plant Dioscorea hispida is decreasing in one study area (Catmon). Although Dioscorea hispida serves as an alternative food source during times of food shortage, it is not widely appreciated in the area due to potential toxicity when not prepared correctly. The reduction in supply can be attributed to the lack of cultivation and J. Bio. & Env. Sci. 20 23 225 | Abayon over-harvesting from the wild, which arises from the absence of formal ownership of wild medicinal plants. Fig. 1a. Cultivated and Non-cultivated Medicinal Plants. Fig. 1b. Availability of Medicinal Plants. Respondents' perspective on the preservation of medicinal plants The majority of respondents exhibited a favorable outlook on the preservation of medicinal plants, as reflected in their agreement with various conservation statements outlined in Table 2. This encompassed several key aspects, including the protection of habitats and species, advocating for sustainable harvesting and extraction methods, endorsing the establishment of home gardens, botanical gardens, and germplasm banks specifically for medicinal plants. Fig. 1c. Extraction practices of Medicinal Plants. Fig. 1. (a) Alternative application, (b) availability, and (c) extraction practices of cultivated and noncultivated medicinal plants identified in the study areas of Mt. Nacolod, Southern Leyte. Respondents also expressed support for prioritizing the utilization of cultivated medicinal plants over wild ones, integrating environmental sustainability, including biodiversity conservation, into the educational curriculum from primary to tertiary levels, implementing policies pertaining to biodiversity conservation, and involving local communities in the development of biodiversity conservation plans. The high percentage of agreement, ranging from 70 to 100 percent, underscores the respondents' positive stance towards the conservation of medicinal plants. Table 2. Respondents’ Perspective on the Preservation of Medicinal Plants. Item Rating a Agree 1 2 3 4 5 (%) b 1. Natural landscape and habitat protection 0 0 0 8 12 100 2. Protection of medicinal plants in their natural habitat. 0 0 0 16 4 100 3. Control extraction so that it will not exceed the natural plant regeneration rate. 0 0 6 9 5 70 4. Use of sustainable harvesting methods. 0 0 0 10 10 100 5. Establishment of home gardens for medicinal plants. 0 0 2 14 4 90 6. Use of home - grown medicinal plants so that it will not go extinct in the wild. 0 0 0 2 18 100 7. Cultivation of medicinal plants in botanical gardens. 0 0 0 10 10 100 8. Establishment of germplasm bank. 0 0 0 13 7 100 9. Conduct public information campaigns on plant conservation 0 0 0 9 11 100 10. Integration of environmental sustainability and conservation courses in student’s curriculum. 0 0 0 17 3 100 11. Strong implementation of local and national policies protecting these plants and their habitats. 0 0 0 12 8 100 12. Work with local communities to develop appropriate management strategies. 0 0 0 9 11 100 13. Support research programs on plant conservation 0 0 0 7 13 100 Legend: a 5 = strongly agree; 4 = moderately agree; 3 = neutral; 2 = moderately disagree; 1 = strongly disagree b Percentage of those who agreed were taken from those who answered 5 and 4.