Date of Completion
2025
Document Type
Research Project
Degree Name
Grade 12
Keywords
traditional medicine, oral health care, medicinal plants, herbal remedies, cultural practices, oral care practices, oral health care, Barangay Salawag
Abstract
The history of traditional medicinal plants was part of humanity over time. Thus, there is limited documentation and analysis of traditional oral care practices in urbanized communities, where modernization threatens the preservation of indigenous knowledge and continued reliance on these remedies. This study explored the perceptions and practices of 100 residents aged 50–80 years in Barangay Salawag, Dasmariñas City, regarding traditional oral care. A descriptive research design with a mixed-method approach was employed. Quantitative data was utilized to measure usage frequency, preparation and application methods, and perceived benefits and analyzed using descriptive statistics. While, qualitative data captured cultural influences, family transmission, and perceived effectiveness. The results showed that guava leaves (14%), salt (14%), garlic (5%), oregano (3%), and guava-salt combinations (7%) were most commonly used, prepared mainly by boiling (24.2%) or pounding (23.2%) and applied directly (52.1%) or as a gargle (26.0%). Usage was often reactive, with 55% using remedies “only if necessary” and 10% daily. Likert-scale responses indicated strong agreement for economic factors (Mean = 4.44), accessibility (Mean = 4.28), cultural influence (Mean = 4.24), and personal preference (Mean = 4.20), while general cultural norms scored neutral (Mean = 3.04). Overall, the findings emphasized the continued reliance on herbal remedies was primarily due to challenges in affordability and accessibility, cultural transmission and perceived efficacy. This study also highlights the need for and importance of documenting traditional oral care practices and merging safe, culturally accepted herbal remedies with modern oral health measures.
First Advisor
Jose Isaak M. Calamlam, LPT, MA
APA Citation
Bautista, A. E.,
De Roxas, M. C.,
Luna, A. C.,
Magrimbao, T. S.,
Reynera, G. M.,
&
Rodil, T. B.
(2025).
Use of traditional medicinal plants and alternative oral care practices for dental hygiene among adults aged 50 to 80 in Brgy Salawag, Dasmarinas City, Cavite.
Grade_12.
Retrieved from https://greenprints.dlshsi.edu.ph/grade_12/766