Courtyard pharmacy: medicinal plants in Kutai house landscapes of Perak Tengah

For generations, the courtyard of a Malay house represented more than just an outdoor space. It functioned as a living pharmacy, a kitchen garden, and a sanctuary that supported everyday life. In the case of the Kutai houses in Perak Tengah, Malaysia, these courtyards reflected a legacy in which plants were not only cultivated for food and utility but also embodied healing traditions, cultural symbolism, and identity. However, this heritage is increasingly under threat. Rapid modernization and changing lifestyles have caused many families to neglect the traditional practice of planting medicinal species, raising the risk that this body of knowledge will fade with time. This study aims to document and analyze the role of medicinal plants cultivated in the courtyards of seventeen (17) Kutai houses. Data collection was conducted through field visits, direct observation of plants, and semi-structured interviews with some homeowners who shared their knowledge and personal memories of how these plants were used. The findings reveal that ten (10) species are still commonly grown, including coconut, pandan, banana, lemongrass, and betel, which were observed most frequently. These plants play multiple roles in daily healthcare, treating conditions such as fever, wounds, digestive problems, and women’s health, while also serving as essential elements in cultural ceremonies and household rituals. The results suggest that courtyards were more than private gardens. They were cultural landscapes of care, reflecting the intimate relationship between people and nature. This relationship highlights the resilience of traditional Malay knowledge and its relevance to modern concerns of health, sustainability, and cultural continuity. The study concludes by emphasizing the importance of preserving and revitalizing this heritage through community awareness, conservation efforts, and the integration of medicinal plants into contemporary landscape design. Such initiatives can ensure that the spirit of the Malay courtyard continues to inspire and serve future generations.