Methodology and Collection

Methodology

This study combines Field Linguistics and Language Documentation methods. The team conducted field work, together with a local consultant, Mr Benediktus Delpada, to collect original and ‘first-hand’ data, documented plant species (English and Abui plant names and the scientific name). Besides looking at the medicinal properties and cultural relevance (from the perspective of the Abui people), the team also explored local myths and legends connected with the plants.

Thereafter, the team organised the data in a database which is reflected below.

  Please note that all Abui plant names, reported medical usages of plants and any associated legends or myths    recorded below are the intellectual property of the Abui people.

Collection

Ko tuber / Ko sii

English Plant Name: Ko tuber
Abui Plant Name: Ko sii
Scientific Name: TBC
Etymological Reconstruction: TBC
Medicinal properties
Cultural relevance to the Abui people
Oral stories

Ko tuber is used to strengthen one’s teeth. Roots of the tuber and luul ‘wild betel nut’ are taken, mixed together; it’s juice is drunk and the material is chewed.

Remarks:

Tentative