Exploring the Phenomenological Experiences of Indonesian Cancer Patients in Using Herbal Remedies: Cultural, Spiritual, and Emotional Dimensions
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Abstract
The integration of herbal remedies into cancer care reflects a growing global interest in culturally grounded and patient-centered healing approaches. While existing studies have explored the clinical and behavioral aspects of herbal medicine, few have focused on patients’ subjective experiences and personal meanings behind their choices.
This study aims to address that gap by asking: How do Indonesian cancer patients experience and interpret herbal remedies as part of their healing journey?
Using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA), this research explores the lived experiences of twelve patients who used herbal remedies regularly alongside conventional treatments.
Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews. The analysis identified recurring themes related to cultural identity, spiritual resilience, emotional empowerment, and personalized healing.
The findings suggest that herbal remedy use goes beyond physical health. It is a meaningful act rooted in ancestral traditions, spiritual reflection, and a sense of personal agency.
Healing, for these patients, is experienced as a holistic process shaped by internal meaning and cultural narratives.
This study offers a deeper understanding of how patients make sense of complementary therapies. It also highlights the importance of culturally sensitive approaches in integrative health care.
These insights can inform future research on the roles of tradition, spirituality, and personal meaning in global health practices.
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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
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