The Experience of the Burmeso Tribe in Using Crocodile Oil to Treat Scabies in Burmeso Village, Mamberamo Raya Regency

Abstract

Scabies is a contagious skin disease caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite and is a significant public health problem, especially in remote areas with limited access to modern health services. This qualitative phenomenological study aims to explore the experiences of the Burmeso people in using crocodile oil as a traditional treatment for scabies in school-age children in Burmeso Village, Mamberamo Raya Regency, Papua. Through in-depth interviews with 10 informants consisting of medical personnel, traditional leaders, parents, and the general public, this study reveals the practice of traditional crocodile oil processing, how to use it, the effectiveness of the treatment, and the reasons why people choose traditional medicine. The results show that crocodile oil is processed from crocodile fat through a traditional heating process without additional chemicals, is used topically by being applied 2-3 times daily after heating, and shows high effectiveness with healing within 3-5 days. People choose traditional medicine due to cultural beliefs, limited access to health facilities, proven effectiveness, and the availability of local ingredients. This study contributes to the understanding of the integration of local wisdom in the public health system and the importance of preserving traditional knowledge as a sustainable alternative treatment.