Pemanfaatan Tanaman Obat Keluarga (TOGA) sebagai Upaya Meningkatkan Kemandirian Kesehatan Masyarakat

Abstract

Family Medicinal Plants (TOGA) are local resources that can be utilized by communities to support family health maintenance. This study aims to analyze the utilization of Family Medicinal Plants (TOGA) as an effort to improve community health independence. This research employed a qualitative approach with a descriptive method. Data were collected through observation, interviews, documentation, and relevant written sources. Data analysis involved data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results indicate that TOGA utilization is related to community understanding of medicinal plant types and benefits, as well as their ability to plant, maintain, process, and utilize these plants to support family health. The use of TOGA can encourage communities to optimize health resources available in their surroundings. However, its utilization should be accompanied by knowledge of safety, proper use, and limitations of medicinal plants while considering the need for professional health services. Sustainable TOGA development can be supported through education, training, home-garden utilization, community assistance, community cooperation, and information media. Therefore, TOGA can serve as a local resource that supports health maintenance and contributes to improving community health independence.