Kajian Etno-Medis: Penggunaan Obat Tradisional dalam Masyarakat Gayo

Abstract

This study aims to examine the practice of traditional medicine use in the Gayo community as part of ethno-medicine, which is a treatment approach based on local knowledge and local culture. Through a descriptive qualitative method with an ethnographic approach, data was collected through in-depth interviews with traditional leaders, local healers, and community users. The results showed that traditional medicine among the Gayo community is not only used as a medical alternative, but also contains spiritual and cultural values. Medicinal knowledge is passed down through generations and reflects the close relationship between humans, nature and local beliefs. This study shows the importance of preserving ethnomedical knowledge as part of a complementary health system that has the potential to be developed in the future.