Identified benefits of community trees in Martelu Purba Nature Reserve

Abstract

The tree species in the Martelu Purba Nature Reserve has been identified. There were 39 plant species from 27 families. Publication of the benefits of each tree species in Martelu Purba Nature Reserve has not been well done. The trees have good potential for further exploration to discover their real benefits for human welfare. This research aims to identify the benefits of the Martelu Purba Nature Reserve. The method used in this study was an exploratory method of tree species in the Ancient Martelu Nature Reserve, and then the benefit categories of each type were determined with reference to the book Indonesian Useful Plants by K. Heyne. Based on research results, the benefits of trees are classified into six categories: raw materials for medicines, food sources for humans and animals, trees to improve environmental conditions, heavy and light construction materials, natural dyes, and paper-making materials. Each type has more than one benefit. Around 35%, or 24 species, are used for consumption; as many as 29%, or 20 species, are used as medicinal plants and as building materials. 21%, or 14 species; besides that, there are tree species for which the local community uses the sap and Gamblea malayana (MRHend.) CBShang, Lowry & Frodin as a phytoremediation plant.