Preservasi Leksikon Tumbuhan Obat Tradisional Masyarakat Wewewa melalui Ranah Pendidikan: Kajian Ekolinguistik

Abstract

The traditional ecological knowledge of the Wewewa community, particularly its medicinal plants, is at risk of extinction due to cultural transitions and reduced capacity for knowledge transmission. To address this issue, it is essential to investigate the medicinal plant lexicon and develop educational strategies for preservation. This study aims to delineate the traditional medicinal plant lexicon of the Wewewa community using an ecolinguistic framework and devise preservation strategies through an ecolinguistic educational approach. The research employs qualitative methodology, utilizing in-depth interviews. Data undergo a four-stage analysis: transcription, lexicon identification, classification by categories, and interpretation to clarify the connections among lexicon, culture, and environment. Findings show that the lexicon, within an ecolinguistic context, reflects the relationship between the Wewewa community and local biodiversity, highlighting the vulnerability of their medicinal plant lexicon, categorized as high risk. The lexicon includes linguistic categories such as words and phrases, types of plants, animals, colors, and plant organs used in medicinal practices. Preservation strategies may involve research-based learning, dissemination of infographics, and incorporation into curricular and extracurricular activities. These findings support ecolinguistic theory, suggesting that the medicinal plant lexicon represents vital ecological knowledge and cultural practices. Implementing preservation strategies through education can raise awareness among younger generations, fostering the preservation of cultural heritage and environmental protection.