Participatory research and development of indigenous herbal formulations for community health in Northeast Thailand and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR)
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Abstract. Phon-ngam P. 2026. Participatory research and development of indigenous herbal formulations for community health in Northeast Thailand and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR). Asian J Ethnobiol 9 (1): y090120. https://doi.org/10.13057/asianjethnobiol/y090120. Traditional medicine remains a vital component of rural community health care in northeastern Thailand (Isan) and the Lao PDR. Rooted in indigenous knowledge shaped by local culture and ecological contexts, herbal medicine continues to function as a community-based health resource requiring systematic documentation and participatory development to ensure continuity and safe community use. This study aimed to (i) collect and analyze indigenous herbal medicine recipes used in community health care in Northeast Thailand and the Lao PDR; (ii) develop and refine herbal formulations through participatory processes involving traditional healers as co-researchers; and (iii) document community-based practices related to the application of harmonized herbal preparation guidance within routine health contexts. A participatory action research and Research and Development (R&D) design was employed, involving registered traditional healers, community leaders, and collaborating health professionals. Data were collected through interviews, participatory workshops, and field observations. Qualitative thematic analysis and methodological triangulation were applied to enhance analytical rigor and cultural validity. The study refined and documented 344 indigenous herbal formulations organized into 11 community-defined therapeutic categories reflecting locally recognized health concerns. A broader inventory of 566 medicinal plant species served as a reference resource informing formulation development. Participatory documentation and harmonized preparation guidance were collaboratively established to support clarity and consistency in community-level use.
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