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Ornamental and Medicinal Plants, 2024, 7(1-2): 1-20
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Article

Edible plants with medicinal properties used in a community of the Meranao people of Marawi City, the Philippines

Settie Aisah Omar1, Cesar Demayo1,2,3, Ernel Bagbag1, Mark Anthony Torres1,2,3
1Department of Biological Sciences, Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology, Tibanga, Iligan City, Philippines
2School of Interdisciplinary Studies/ Institute of Peace and Development in Mindanao, MSU-Iligan Institute of Technology, Iligan City, Philippines
3Center of Integrative Health, Premier Research Institute of Science and Mathematics, MSU-Iligan Institute of Technology, Iligan City, Philippines

Received 23 December 2023;Accepted 20 January 2024;Published online 25 January 2024;Published 1 June 2024
IAEES

Abstract
The present study investigates the traditional knowledge of the Meranao people residing in Marawi City, the Philippines, regarding the use of edible plant species purported to possess medicinal attributes. This indigenous Filipino community has amassed a wealth of knowledge regarding alternative medicine sources over several decades. This study, therefore, was undertaken on the grounds that the information produced holds immense potential for the advancement of traditional medicine and the conservation of biodiversity. Results of the survey show seventeen food plant species with medicinal properties were identified, demonstrating the rich botanical diversity in the area. Network analysis examining the ethnopharmacological properties of food plants in an effort to determine their potential medicinal value indicates that these plants were utilized not only as sources of nutrition but also to treat a wide range of health conditions, including minor wounds and cancer. This study demonstrates the importance of employing these plant species not only for culinary purposes but also as traditional remedies for the purpose of addressing and controlling local maladies. This research provides valuable insights into the function of specific food plant species within indigenous healthcare systems through an examination of the links between these plants and their traditional medicinal properties, as well as their utilization as food sources. However, additional research should be conducted to ascertain the safety and efficacy of the documented plant species.

Keywords bioactive compounds;ethnomedicine;network analysis;traditional medicine.


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