Knowledge, Attitude, Perception and Level of Awareness on the Used of Herbal Plants among MSU-IIT CED Students: Basis for STEM Lesson Plan

Abstract

Chemically synthesized medication development and mass production have undergone a transformation during the past century. Despite this, many communities in developing countries still rely on traditional medicine and herbal medicines for their primary care. The purpose of this study was to identify the medicinal plants used by college students and to assess young people's knowledge, attitudes, views, and level of awareness regarding the use of herbal plants as medicine. The study employed a descriptive quantitative and qualitative design. The study made use of a questionnaire that had been adopted and modified. 80 specifically chosen students from the MSU-IIT College of Education's Department of Science and Mathematics Education. The majority of responses were female, unmarried, and Cebuano, with an average age of 20 to 21. Furthermore, Barangay Tibanga was where the bulk of the respondents called home. The respondents knew about the use of herbal medicine and had generally favorable opinions and perceptions about it. Additionally, it was shown that the leaf was the most frequently utilized component in herbal plant preparation while decoction was the most frequently used method. Malunggay, Calamansi, and Guava were the most frequently used herbal plants, according to the ethnobotanical study, while Watsisaw was the least frequently used herbal plant noted by the students. In addition, respondents had noted more therapeutic plants utilized in their neighborhood. Thus, it can be said that the younger generations living in Iligan City are still aware of the presence and applications of herbal plants in their neighborhood. Implementing a STEM lesson will also contribute to the preservation and appreciation of herbal plants and their long history of use.