Traditional Knowledge and Usage of Medicinal Plants among the Semai Orang Asli at Kampung Batu 16, Tapah, Perak, Malaysia

Abstract

A study was carried out on the traditional knowledge and usage of medicinal plants among the Semai at a village in the state Perak, Malaysia. Information was obtained from talking with adults guided by a predetermined set of questions, and also by observing and participating in their activities during each visit using the method of ethno-botanical enquiry. A total of 37 species was recorded of which most of the species are native. Most species are herbs, followed by trees, climbers and shrubs. Plant parts most commonly used are leaves, roots, flowers, sap, stems. More species are used as external medicine than internal medicine. Many species of plants are used in rituals for healing and protection followed by herbal medicines for restoring and protecting post partum mothers.