Identification of Potential Medicinal Plants in Pawang Setinggi Daya, the Traditional Forest of Sambik Elen Village

Abstract

This study aims to identify medicinal plant species and analyze their utilization potential in the Pawang Setinggi Daya area of the Sambik Elen Customary Forest. The research was conducted using an exploratory census method, combined with direct field observation and in-depth interviews with selected local informants. A total of 104 medicinal plant species belonging to various plant families were recorded in the study area. The potential utilization of these plants was assessed using fidelity level and cultural significance indices, which indicate the intensity and importance of plant use in traditional medicine. The results show that the study area has high medicinal plant diversity and that several species play an important cultural and ecological role for the local community. These findings highlight the importance of conserving medicinal plant resources and traditional knowledge through sustainable management of customary forests to ensure their long-term ecological, cultural, and health benefits