Acceptability of Traditional Medicines in Selected Municipalities in the Province of Quezon: Basis for Awareness Campaign

The use of traditional medicines continues to thrive globally, with a particularly strong presence in developing countries where herbal treatments are deeply rooted in cultural practices. In the Philippines, particularly in the province of Quezon, traditional medicinal practices remain widely accepted and practiced among local communities. This study assessed the acceptability of traditional medicines in the municipalities of Atimonan, Gumaca, and Lopez, serving as a basis for a proposed awareness campaign. Utilizing a descriptive mixed-methods research design, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches, data were gathered from 100 respondents composed of both local residents who come from nearby municipalities and community residents through a purposive sampling technique. A researcher-made questionnaire evaluated acceptability in terms of characteristics, efficacy, and safeness. Findings revealed that traditional medicinal plants such as ampalaya, sambong, lagundi, and tawa-tawa are commonly used and deemed acceptable by both respondent groups. While most respondents rated the characteristics and safeness of these medicines as acceptable to highly acceptable, challenges such as bitter taste, limited availability, and slow effects were encountered. Statistical analysis showed no significant difference in acceptability across respondent groups. Based on these results, a comprehensive awareness campaign was proposed to enhance recognition, safe use, and promotion of traditional medicinal practices in Quezon Province. The study underscores the need for integrative health policies that validate and support traditional medicine within public health systems.