Journal article
Medicinal plants and their therapeutic use: A study at IBSUniversity, Papua New Guinea
IBSUniversity Journal of Business and Research, Vol.2(2), pp.10-24
12/2025
Metrics
1 Record Views
Abstract
This study presents a detailed ethnobotanical investigation into the identification, documentation, and future potential of medicinal plants traditionally used across Papua New Guinea, with a practical focus on the IBSUniversity campus. A total of 80 species were recorded using purposive data collection methods, including field observation, literature comparison, and engagement with local knowledge holders. Each plant was classified by its common and botanical name, family, useful parts, and therapeutic applications. The findings highlight the historical and cultural significance of medicinal plants in traditional systems such as Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and Indigenous healing practices across Africa, the Americas, and Oceania. The study emphasis the pharmacological value of bioactive compounds particularly alkaloids, flavonoids, and terpenoids which contribute to the treatment of inflammation, infections, digestive disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, and cardiovascular conditions. Emerging innovations such as plant-based nanotechnology, genetic engineering, and pharming are explored as transformative tools for enhancing drug delivery, therapeutic precision, and scalability. The integration of omics technologies (genomics, proteomics, metabolomics) and clinical trials is accelerating the validation of traditional remedies and supporting the development of personalised phytotherapy. The research also addresses the growing commercialisation of medicinal plants in the form of herbal supplements, functional foods, and plant-derived pharmaceuticals. It underscores the importance of quality control, sustainability, and ethical engagement with Indigenous knowledge systems. By establishing a medicinal garden on campus, the study contributes to biodiversity conservation, health education, and community outreach. Overall, the research affirms that medicinal plants are essential to both traditional and modern healthcare, offering sustainable, culturally grounded, and scientifically validated solutions for future therapeutic development.
Details
- Title
- Medicinal plants and their therapeutic use: A study at IBSUniversity, Papua New Guinea
- Creators
- Dhanapackiam Kuppusamy - IBSUniversity (Papua New Guinea)Sasikumar V R - IBSUniversity (Papua New Guinea)Melissa Hatabia - IBSUniversity (Papua New Guinea)
- Publication Details
- IBSUniversity Journal of Business and Research, Vol.2(2), pp.10-24
- Publisher
- IBS University
- Identifiers
- 991013372756902368
- Academic Unit
- Faculty of Business, Law and Arts; IBSUniversity
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Journal article