Family Experience in Caring for Sick Family Members Using Sundanese Local Wisdom

Abstract

Traditional medicine remains embedded in family health practices and cultural traditions. Among Sundanese families, traditional healing may influence how illness is interpreted, managed, and communicated before or alongside professional health care. However, limited qualitative evidence has explored how Sundanese families experience traditional treatment as part of everyday caregiving. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of Sundanese family members in caring for sick family members through traditional treatment and local wisdom, with particular attention to the meanings, beliefs, practices, and decision-making processes underlying traditional healing. A qualitative phenomenological design was employed. Six Sundanese family members with experience caring for sick relatives using traditional treatment participated in the study through purposive sampling. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and analyzed using Colaizzi’s descriptive phenomenological approach. The analysis focused on participants’ experiences, perceptions, cultural beliefs, and practices related to traditional healing. Six interconnected themes emerged: traditional treatment as first aid; affordability and accessibility; integration of natural ingredients and beliefs; communicating with plants; obedience to cultural customs; and use of mystical power. The findings indicate that traditional treatment was perceived not merely as an alternative therapeutic practice but as a culturally embedded component of family caregiving. Its use was influenced by practical considerations, family knowledge, intergenerational transmission, spirituality, and relationships with the natural environment. Traditional healing remains influential in Sundanese family caregiving and reflects the interaction between cultural values, family knowledge, spirituality, and health-seeking behavior. The findings highlight the importance of culturally responsive family nursing that recognizes traditional practices while maintaining patient safety and evidence-based care. Nurses should assess traditional health practices as part of cultural and family assessment, communicate respectfully about cultural beliefs, and provide evidence-based guidance concerning the safety and appropriate use of traditional remedies. Culturally sensitive approaches may strengthen therapeutic relationships and support family-centered care.