Studi Etnofarmakologi dan Farmakologi Jaringan dari Minyak Karo sebagai Obat Tradisional oleh Masyarakat Etnis Karo

Abstract

Background: The Karo ethnic group is known for its strong utilization of natural resources for traditional medicine, such as Karo oil, for various health purposes. This behavior is influenced by their environment, particularly Berastagi sub-district, which is rich in biodiversity. However, there is still a lack of scientific documentation regarding the medicinal properties of these remedies. The development of network pharmacology, which is crucial for the initial stages of pharmacological studies among traditional Chinese medicines, has also prompted similar analyses of Karo oil. Objective: This research aims to explore and inventory the knowledge, utilization, and management of natural ingredients in Karo oil as a traditional medicine based on the local knowledge of the Karo ethnic group. It also seeks to predict protein targets for diseases treated with Karo oil based on network pharmacology analysis. Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with Karo informants in Berastagi sub-district, who have recognized knowledge and experience within the community. Sampling was done using a combination of purposive and snowball sampling methods to ensure selection aligns with the research objectives and cultural context. Data were analyzed using the Miles and Huberman model, exploring medicinal plants and calculating the usefulness index. Tissue pharmacology analysis was performed based on online databases visualized with Cytoscape software. Results: The study identified 39 plant families and 84 medicinal plants used in Karo oil. The most common family was Zingiberaceae. Production involves the collection of raw materials, separation, grinding, heating, filtering, and packaging. Karo oil treats muscle and joint disorders, skin conditions, digestive disorders, fever, and aids in postpartum recovery, used both topically, orally, or a combination of both. The native plant species Vitis gracilis plays a significant role in Karo oil. ESR1 (Estrogen Receptor 1), MAPK1 (Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 1), and MAPK3 (Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 3) are the three main protein targets for alpha-pinene, a key component in Karo oil, in burn injury healing. Conclusion: The Karo community possesses rich traditional knowledge of medicinal plants, particularly in the production of Karo oil. However, modernization and the lack of successors threaten this knowledge. Conservation efforts are crucial to preserve this valuable cultural heritage.