Franklin George, an indigenous researcher, recently shared valuable insights into the medicinal plants used by the Penan Selungo community in Sarawak. This community has a rich knowledge of traditional medicine, utilizing plants found in their surroundings to treat various ailments. Franklin’s documentation of 53 out of the 100 known medicinal plants used by the Penan Selungo sheds light on the importance of preserving this valuable knowledge for future generations.
The process of documenting these medicinal plants was no easy feat, taking researchers 18 months to compile the information into a comprehensive 131-page document. Franklin emphasized the significance of this documentation in ensuring that the medicinal knowledge of the Penan community does not disappear, especially in the face of deforestation and encroachment on their lands by logging activities.
During his talk titled ‚The Medicinal Plants of Penan Selungo‘ at a hotel in Kuching, Franklin highlighted the medicinal properties of one particular plant known as Aril, scientifically named piper betle~peperraceae. This plant, commonly used by the Penan community, has been found to be effective in treating vein pain, joint pain, and skin irritation. The traditional methods of preparation and application of this plant showcase the deep-rooted knowledge and expertise of the Penan people in utilizing natural resources for healing purposes.
Franklin’s efforts in documenting these medicinal plants serve as a crucial step in preserving the traditional knowledge of the Penan community. By recording and validating the uses of these plants, future generations can learn from their ancestors‘ wisdom and continue to benefit from the healing properties of these natural remedies. The reluctance of some community members to share this knowledge highlights the importance of documenting and safeguarding these traditional practices before they are lost to time.
Looking ahead, Franklin expressed hope that the Penan community could explore ways to further utilize these medicinal plants, potentially turning them into more accessible forms such as tablets for oral consumption. By leveraging modern advancements while honoring their traditional practices, the Penan community can continue to uphold their rich heritage of natural healing methods.
In conclusion, Franklin’s work in documenting the medicinal plants of the Penan Selungo community serves as a testament to the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge and traditional practices. Through his research and advocacy, Franklin has shed light on the invaluable contributions of the Penan community to the field of traditional medicine, emphasizing the need to protect and promote these practices for the benefit of current and future generations.