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
Palm / Nai
| English Plant Name: | Palm |
| Abui Plant Name: | Nai |
| Scientific Name: | Arecaceae |
| Etymological Reconstruction: | TBC |
Locals placed and tied palm fiber around the rooftop after making a clan house or customary house in the past.People around Alor Island also use the juice of the palm to produce local alcoholic drinks like enau or sopi (as called in Malay).
| Remarks:
Tentative |