Malay Medical Manuscript of The Book of Tib Mss2515: An Analysis of Skin Diseases Treatment

Abstract

The book of Tib MSS2515 is considered a complete manuscript discussing medicine in the Malay world. The study aims to assess the use of traditional medicine and its treatment of skin diseases [focuses on shingles, leprosy, and abscess] in the MSS2515 manuscripts. Textual studies and data extraction are applied using philological methods in identifying diseases and treatment and their categorisation. The pharmacological aspect of [materia medica] is analysed by comparing scientific reports in Google Scholar and PubMed and matching the ingredients with the purpose. Findings showed there are 35 formulations for three types of skin diseases. Part of the pharmacology and its use in the manuscripts is supported with contemporary scientific evidence. Scientific studies should be intensified to confirm the safety and efficacy of formulations in Malay medical manuscripts, as their content has the potential to generate new drugs. This research also contributes to the preservation of Malay medical culture and heritage.