An ethnobotanical study of traditional rice landraces (Oryza sativa L.) used for medical treatment in selected local communities of the Philippines

Ethnopharmacological relevanceRice (Oryza sativa L.) remains as one the most important staple food of the Philippines with an overabundance of varieties and gastronomic use. Despite this, no published comprehensive ethnobotanical information exists for the exclusive subject on Philippine traditional rice varieties and their ethnomedicinal value.Aim of the StudyTo identify and collect traditional rice landrace with ethnomedicinal application from local communities of the Philippines; and document the application, traditional preparation and administration of these plants.Materials and methodsThe ethnobotanical study was performed in nine areas distributed across four provinces: Palawan, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur and North Cotabato for a period of two years (2014-2015). A total of 39 key informants were identified and interviewed using semi-structured interviews and informal discussion. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze and organize the collected information from the surveys.ResultsNineteen (19) traditional rice were identified for the native treatment and control of 22 community health concerns. Predominant use of the plants collected were for the treatment of some types of nutritional disorders (18%), digestive system disorders (18%), ill-defined symptoms (13%); viral infections (13%); and several cultural diseases and disorders (11%). Grains were the most frequently used plant part and oral administration was the most preferred mode of treatment.ConclusionThis study is the first to formally confirm that certain traditional rice have a role in the healthcare system of selected local communities in the Philippines. The novel findings open a paradigm for scientists towards therapeutic investigations and development of probable high value products from the highlighted landrace.

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