Utilization of Lanah Sug Mixed with Bangkit as an Alternative Topical Medicine for Wound Healing among Residents of Tulay, Jolo, Sulu, Philippines

Abstract

Background: Traditional medicine remains an integral part of healthcare in communities where access to modern medical facilities is limited. In Tulay, Jolo, Sulu, Philippines, a locally prepared mixture of lanah sug (virgin coconut oil) and bangkit is used as an alternative topical medicine for wound healing, yet its utilization and demographic correlates have not been documented.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 residents of Tulay, Jolo, Sulu, selected through simple random sampling. A researcher-developed questionnaire collected data on age, sex, monthly income, and educational level, and on self-reported frequency of lanah sug mixed with bangkit utilization measured on a five-point Likert scale. Data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, independent t-test, and one-way ANOVA at a significance level of 0.05.
Results: The majority of respondents were aged 45 years and above (40%), male (60%), with a monthly income of PHP 15,001-25,000 (41%), and tertiary education (54%). The mean utilization score was 3.81 (SD = 1.212), interpreted as “often”. Utilization differed significantly by age (F(3,96) = 10.987, p < 0.001), sex (t(98) = 3.643, p < 0.001), and monthly income (F(4,95) = 6.485, p < 0.001); the difference by educational level was borderline (F(3,96) = 2.704, p = 0.050).
Conclusion: Utilization of lanah sug mixed with bangkit is common among residents of Tulay, Sulu, and varies significantly with age, sex, and income. The findings support the culturally sensitive integration of traditional remedies into local wound care and provide baseline data for further research.