Herbal-based complementary therapies in burn wound management: Evidence from a community-based study in Indonesia
Abstract
Background: Burn injuries remain a major public health concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Alongside conventional medical management, communities frequently employ herbal-based complementary therapies for minor burn wounds. However, empirical documentation of these practices at the community level remains limited. Objective: To describe the patterns, types, and practices of herbal-based complementary therapies used for burn wound management among residents of Krajan Hamlet, Indonesia. Methods: A community-based descriptive quantitative study was conducted involving 129 adult respondents selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a validated structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics, types of herbal remedies used, modes of application, and overall practice scores. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: The majority of respondents demonstrated good practice in the use of herbal therapies for burn wound management (69.8%). Aloe vera was the most frequently utilized herbal remedy (37.4%), followed by Anredera cordifolia (binahong) (31.0%), Piper betle (green betel leaf) (26.4%), Piper crocatum (red betel leaf) (15.5%), and Kalanchoe pinnata (cocor bebek) (10.1%). Direct topical application was the predominant mode of use (71.3%). Conclusion: Herbal-based complementary therapies are widely and consistently practiced within the community, particularly for minor burn injuries. While these practices reflect strong local knowledge and accessibility, structured health education is required to ensure safe application, appropriate burn classification, and timely referral to professional medical care.
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