The objective of this research was to study the use of traditional herbal remedies by the ethnic Chong people of Khaokitchakut District, Chanthaburi Province. The mixed methods approach of qualitative and quantitative research were used. The sample of 384 qualified voters was determined by the number of people who responded to the survey. The quantitative portion of the research consisted of in-depth interviews and participatory observation.
An overview of the survey results show that the use of traditional herbal remedies by ethnic Chong people was at the infrequent level. The most frequently used herbal remedies were used to treat respiratory ailments. The second most frequently used herbal remedies were used for gastrointestinal tract ailments and skin diseases. The third most frequently used herbal remedies were for miscellaneous diseases and urinary tract infections. An overview of the survey results show that the ethnic Chong people somewhat agree with the use of traditional herbal remedies. The highest rated factor for their use was convenience. The second highest rated factors were: reasonable price, satisfaction, good effects, and the culture of using herbal remedies. The following recommendations were recorded to address the needs of the ethnic Chong people: promotion of the ethnic Chong Village as a learning center for essential herbs, organization of a Chong herb club, cultivation of Chong herbs, use of government budgetary funds to restore Chong herbs, increase public awareness by using various publicity channels, allocation of budgetary funds to strengthen Chong traditions, creation of various Chong herbal products, increase income by regularly organizing the Chong herb market and formal recognition of Chong herbal remedies as a household medicine.
