Indonesia possesses a wealth of traditional medicinal knowledge that forms an important part of its biocultural heritage. However, a significant proportion of this ethnomedicinal wisdom has yet to be systematically documented and scientifically evaluated. One notable example is Ficus septica, commonly known as awar-awar or tobo-tobo, which has been used for generations by the Bugis–Makassar communities of South Sulawesi.

In local healing traditions, the plant is regarded as having "cooling" properties and is widely employed to alleviate ailments associated with excess body heat, including fever, inflammation, and wound-related conditions. Indigenous to Indonesia's limestone karst environments, F. septica has attracted increasing scientific attention throughout Southeast Asia, although the connections among its medicinal value, phytochemical composition, and ecological functions remain insufficiently understood.

To address this knowledge gap, a research team from Indonesia headed by Prof. Ahmad Ismail of Hasanuddin University investigated the species' ecological and cultural significance within Indonesia's biologically rich yet vulnerable karst ecosystems. Their findings were published online on April 4, 2026, in the Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine. Explaining the motivation behind the work, Prof. Ismail noted that the study sought to integrate indigenous knowledge with phytochemical and ecological evidence in order to demonstrate how traditional healing practices can contribute to the conservation of biocultural heritage.

The researchers conducted interviews with five knowledgeable community members who described F. septica as a medicinal plant used to restore balance by reducing excessive body heat. They also documented its local classification, methods of preparation, and cultural importance. Laboratory analyses further identified 54 bioactive constituents possessing anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities, thereby providing scientific evidence that supports many of its traditional therapeutic applications.

The investigation also revealed that the ecological importance of F. septica extends well beyond its medicinal uses. As a pioneer species, it is well adapted to the challenging conditions of limestone karst habitats, where it helps stabilize soils, creates suitable microhabitats for other organisms, and facilitates seed dispersal through interactions with fruit-eating animals. These ecological functions make the species an important contributor to ecosystem recovery and long-term landscape resilience.

The study aligns closely with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Its emphasis on safeguarding biodiversity-rich limestone karst habitats supports SDG 15 (Life on Land), while its recognition of traditional medical knowledge, cultural heritage, and community participation in environmental management advances SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

Overall, the findings illustrate that Ficus septica represents a dynamic biocultural system in which traditional knowledge, phytochemical properties, and ecological processes reinforce one another. As Prof. Ismail emphasizes, acknowledging the value of culturally important plant species such as F. septica can strengthen locally driven, participatory approaches to biodiversity conservation and sustainable ecosystem management.

Did you know that nestled in scenic Warren County, New Jersey, lies a 2,727-acre area that serves as a vital water supply, a sanctuary for wildlife and a recreational escape – thanks in part to PSEG?

The Merrill Creek Reservoir is a 650-acre body of water surrounded by over 2,000 additional acres of preserved land. Constructed in 1988 by a coalition of seven electric utilities, including PSE&G, the reservoir was designed to replenish the Delaware River during low-flow conditions so that water could continue to be used for cooling power plants. The reservoir helps power plants maintain safe operations while also supporting regional water stability.
But its impact doesn’t end there.

Supporting biodiversity
Home to more than 380 wildlife species – many of them threatened or endangered – Merrill Creek has evolved into a vibrant habitat teeming with life. Open to the public, visitors can explore hiking trails, enjoy fishing or simply appreciate the natural beauty of the preserve.

Our support of the Merrill Creek Reservoir is part of our company’s focus on promoting and enhancing biodiversity while continuing to operate in a safe and reliable manner. We work with external partners through corporate investment and philanthropy to support the enhancement of important biodiversity areas and habitats.

The work at Merrill Creek Reservoir includes ongoing ecological forestry practices, which aim to create a varied age-class of forest that supports a diversity of wildlife species habitats. These practices include active forest conservation management, invasive species control and native plantings, with a long-term goal of facilitating the development of Old Growth Forest characteristics. Old Growth Forests feature plants of varying species and ages in minimally disturbed environments. These settings provide essential habitats for diverse species, store significant amounts of carbon, and play a key role in maintaining clean water and preserving soil quality. Efforts to improve forest quality are crucial for maintaining and enhancing biodiversity and ensuring the resilience of the reservoir's ecosystem

An award-winning initiative
In December 2024, the reservoir earned the Governor’s Environmental Excellence Award in the “Healthy Ecosystems & Habitat” category. This honor from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection recognized the site's groundbreaking restoration and conservation efforts.

The award-winning initiatives recognized by the NJDEP include:

A model for conservation
Merrill Creek Reservoir is an example of how conservation work and efficient operations can be mutually beneficial. Through close work with our partners, thoughtful stewardship of the preserve has created a thriving ecosystem, and we hope that the practices at the reservoir can serve as a model for other organizations and landowners.

We’re proud to be a part owner of the Merrill Creek Reservoir and of the hard work our team undertakes statewide to incorporate sound conservation practices into the work we do to deliver safe, reliable and affordable energy to our customers around New Jersey.