Ethnomedicine of Bali Aga: Inheritance and Use of Loloh Paya Pule

Universitas Pendidikan Ganesha, Singaraja Indonesia

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Abstract

Traditional herbal remedies remain an important aspect of cultural identity and local health practices in indigenous communities. One such example is Loloh Paya Pule in Pedawa Village, a Bali Aga community, which continues to be used despite the growing influence of modern medicine. This study seeks to rationalize the persistence of Loloh Paya Pule as a traditional treatment, to describe its cultural and medical significance, and to document its preparation process. Employing a qualitative research design, data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews with community members and traditional healers, and document study. The findings indicate that Loloh Paya Pule is widely believed to treat fever and stomach disorders, and its continued use is rooted in ancestral traditions passed down across generations. The geographical setting of Pedawa, located in a mountainous region, fosters a close relationship with nature and reliance on natural resources for health practices, further reinforcing its persistence. The preparation process remains highly traditional, involving the manual pounding and filtering of ingredients, resulting in a distinctively bitter taste. In conclusion, Loloh Paya Pule functions not only as an alternative medicine but also as a symbol of cultural resilience and ancestral heritage in the Bali Aga community. The implication of this study underscores the urgency of preserving indigenous knowledge as part of cultural sustainability while opening avenues for future pharmacological research to scientifically evaluate its efficacy and potential contributions to broader health systems