Improving health literacy through education on the use of rambusa leaf (Passiflora foetida) herbal medicine for hypertension management among older adults

Abstract

Background: Hypertension is one of the most common chronic diseases among older adults and remains a significant public health concern. In Kebonsari Village, limited community awareness of the medicinal potential of locally available rambusa leaves (Passiflora foetida), which contain flavonoids with antihypertensive properties, has hindered their utilization as a complementary herbal remedy.

Problem Identification: A community assessment identified inadequate knowledge of hypertension management and limited practical skills among older adults in utilizing rambusa leaves as a safe and accessible herbal therapy to support blood pressure control.

Methods: This community service programme involved 35 older adults in Kebonsari Village. The programme was implemented through baseline blood pressure screening, health education on hypertension and the benefits of Passiflora foetida, practical training on preparing herbal decoctions, and programme evaluation using participant observations and a satisfaction survey. Programme outcomes were assessed descriptively based on participants’ health awareness, practical skills, and satisfaction.

Results: Baseline screening revealed that 57% of participants had systolic blood pressure exceeding 180 mmHg, indicating the need for community-based intervention. Following the programme, participants demonstrated improved understanding of hypertension management and actively participated in the practical sessions. Overall satisfaction reached 88.6%, with 97.1% of participants reporting that they were very satisfied with the hands-on training.

Conclusion: The community service programme effectively improved participants’ knowledge and practical skills in utilizing Passiflora foetida as a complementary herbal therapy for hypertension management. The programme also demonstrated the potential of community-based health education to promote self-care practices and support healthy ageing among older adults.