Study on Knowledge of Medicinal Plant Formulas for Dermatitis Treatment Recorded in Palm Leaf Manuscripts of Isan

Abstract

This study is a qualitative research done by collecting, examining and analyzing the data regarding use of medicinal plant formulas to treat skin disorders. Data were collected from the palm leaf manuscripts of Sakon Nakhon Province, which has been translated in 33 copies, together with the use of semi-structured interviews and focus group discussion with key informants. The results showed that disease appearing in the palm leaf manuscripts has several names which are Tumkun, Kunkai, Òktum, Òkkai and Pradongkun. The symptoms can be comparable with that of Tachophikan in Thai traditional medicine and Dermatitis in modern medicine. Based on the study, 26 formulas were found which consisted of 61 plant species. The roots were the most frequently used parts in drug formulation (63.38%) and medicinal plants mostly have bitter flavor. The aqueous adjuvants are mostly rainwater. Most of the medications were prepared as rubbing on stone and most frequently used form of external administration of medicinal plants was unguent. Literature review found that the medicinal plants used in the formulation have the mechanism of action consistent with the drugs used to treat dermatitis of modern medicine, including anti-inflammatory, wound healing, analgesic and immunomodulating, which is relevant to treatment and help relieve inflammation of the skin.