KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT OF LOCAL WISDOM IN HERBAL COMPRESS PRODUCTION: A CASE STUDY OF THE CHAROEN MUEANG ELDERLY CLUB, PHAN DISTRICT, CHIANG RAI PROVINCE

Abstract

            This research aimed to 1) study the knowledge management of local wisdom in the production of herbal compress balls in Charoen Mueang Subdistrict, Phan District, Chiang Rai Province, and  2) propose guidelines for extending such knowledge management. The key informants were purposively selected, totaling 15 participants, including 10 members of the elderly club and local sages, and 5 local administrators, community representatives, and responsible persons of the elderly club. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and observations, and analyzed using content analysis. The findings revealed that the knowledge management of local wisdom in herbal compress production involved four main processes:   1) knowledge acquisition, supported continuously by the Subdistrict Administrative Organization;  2) knowledge sharing through workshops and multiple dissemination channels;  3) knowledge storage by compiling folk remedies into databases, publications, and herbal gardens; and  4) knowledge transfer by local sages and relevant agencies to the elderly, enabling them to produce herbal compresses for livelihood and community networking. The proposed guidelines for extending knowledge management included:  1) promoting product development by enhancing knowledge of raw materials, packaging, and marketing;  2) developing appropriate herbal drying systems, such as temperature-controlled and solar-powered dryers;  3) fostering collaboration with government and academic institutions to support suitable technologies; and  4) designing safe, attractive, reusable, and eco-friendly packaging. These strategies contribute to elevating local wisdom toward sustainable development.