Local Wisdom-Based Herbal Medicine for Supporting Health and Learning Concentration among Children with Special Needs: A Literature Review

Abstract

This study examines the potential of local wisdom-based herbal medicine as a supportive approach to improving health and learning concentration among children with special needs in inclusive elementary schools. Children with special needs often experience difficulties related to attention, concentration, and cognitive functioning that may affect their learning outcomes. Therefore, alternative approaches that support both physical health and cognitive performance are needed. This research employed a literature review method with a systematic approach by collecting and analyzing relevant studies published between 2019 and 2026 from Scopus, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and Garuda databases. The selected literature focused on the use of herbal medicine, cognitive function, learning concentration, and children with special needs. The findings indicate that several herbal plants commonly used in Indonesian traditional medicine, including Centella asiatica, Curcuma longa, Curcuma xanthorrhiza, Zingiber officinale, and Moringa oleifera, contain bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, curcumin, antioxidants, and triterpenoids that may contribute to neural health, immune function, and cognitive performance. Previous studies also suggest that these herbal plants possess neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that may support attention and learning concentration. Furthermore, local wisdom-based herbal medicine is considered culturally acceptable, affordable, and easily accessible within Indonesian communities. In conclusion, local wisdom-based herbal medicine has the potential to serve as a complementary approach for supporting health and learning concentration among children with special needs in inclusive elementary education. However, further clinical studies are required to confirm its effectiveness, safety, and appropriate dosage.