Education and Community Assistance in Utilizing Family Medicinal Plants (TOGA) to Support Rational Self-Medication

Abstract

The utilization of Family Medicinal Plants (TOGA) for rational self-medication remains suboptimal due to limited knowledge and skills. One of the change agent is Pharmacy Student Association of Permata Indonesia Health Polytechnic Yogyakarta. This community service aimed to improve the understanding and skills of the Pharmacy Student Association of Permata Indonesia Health Polytechnic Yogyakarta in utilizing TOGA. The methods included education, demonstrations, hands-on planting practice, and continuous mentoring. The results showed an increase in participants’ knowledge and skills in cultivating and maintaining medicinal plants, as evidenced by the establishment of a simple TOGA garden. The discussion highlights that an educational-participatory approach effectively enhances awareness and rational self-medication behavior using natural products. In conclusion, education and mentoring improved participants’ capacity to utilize TOGA appropriately and safely. Future programs are recommended to focus on processing medicinal plants into simple products and conducting long-term evaluations to ensure sustainability.