The Tropical Biopharmaca Research Center (TropBRC) at IPB University launched a community initiative in Cibeureum Village, Cijaku, Lebak, Banten. The team conducted the program on August 28–29, 2026, under the Dosen Pulang Kampung initiative. In addition, the theme focused on integrating biopharmaca cultivation into local agriculture and livestock systems. Consequently, the project aims to improve food security, public health, and rural economic growth.
Advancing Rural Health and Economy with Biopharmaca Cultivation
Overall, forty-five villagers actively participated in the training modules. These attendees included farmer groups, livestock breeders, PKK and Posyandu cadres, neighborhood leaders, LPM, and youth. Furthermore, six TropBRC experts guided the program. The academic team included Prof. Dr. Mohamad Rafi, Dr. Apt. Siti Sadi’ah, and Prof. Dr. Waras Nurcholis. In addition, Prof. Dr. Ir. Syarifah Iis Aisyah, Dr. Rudi Heryanto, and Dr. drh. Herwin Pisestyani co-led the training. University students and staff also supported the sessions alongside Gapoktan and the BUMDes Harum Jaya Livestock Farm.
During the event, the team distributed nine types of medicinal plant seedlings as potential “green gold.” These seedlings included cat’s whiskers, sow thistle, green chiretta, green betel, black turmeric, red ginger, patchouli, shield aralia, and marigold. Sourced from TropBRC facilities, each participant received three to four seedlings linked to patented research. For instance, residents learned how to process red ginger into instant drinks. Moreover, experts taught livestock breeders how to apply natural herbal remedies for animal health.
To support ongoing learning, the researchers provided educational materials. Prof. Dr. Syarifah Iis Aisyah shared a guidebook on marigold utilization. Similarly, Dr. drh. Herwin Pisestyani distributed a pocketbook on animal-based food processing. Participants also completed pretests and posttests to assess learning outcomes. As a result, this initiative transforms biopharmaca cultivation into a driver of long-term community resilience.
✍️ Author & Editor: Titis Arifiana
📸 Documentation: TropBRC Team