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Introduction: stelechocarpus burahol (Kepel) is a plant that grows naturally in Indonesia and belongs to the Annonaceae family. Evaluation of the toxicity of this plant extract is very important to support further research. Stelechocarpus burahol contains flavonoid compounds, which act as antimicrobials and provide protection. Additionally, flavonoids activate antioxidant pathways that provide anti-inflammatory effects. Contraceptives suitable for men and women must be able to prevent fertilization, be inexpensive, and have no side effects. Therefore, natural medicinal plants are needed as contraceptive agents (CA) because they are safe, inexpensive, have antioxidants, and are anti-inflammatory. The Brine Shrimp Toxicity Assay of the ethanol extract of this plant has been tested. Methods: A true experimental design was used, with samples consisting of 6 groups, and each group consisting of 10 live nauplii. The extract concentrations were 250 ppm, 500 ppm, 750 ppm, and 1000 ppm. Ten live nauplii were added to each concentration, and the final volume was adjusted to 1 ml using artificial seawater (35 ppt). The negative control bottle contained 1 ml of artificial seawater, while the positive control bottle contained 50% ethanol in seawater. After 24 hours, all bottles were examined with a flashlight/magnifying glass, and the number of surviving nauplii was counted. The experiment was repeated three times, and data were represented as Mean±SD. Results: The ethanol extract of Stelechocarpus burahol fruit (EESB) tested for its toxicity to brine shrimp had a lethal concentration of 50% (LC50) value of more than 1000 ppm (2787.225 ppm). Conclusion: The ethanol extract of kepel fruit did not cause toxicity to brine shrimp. Therefore, the ethanol extract of kepel fruit can be considered for further research with acute, subacute, and antifertility tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: In Indonesia, cultural beliefs affect holistic healthcare practices. The aim of this study was to identify the effects of cultural beliefs on maternity care and fetal wellbeing. Methods: This study used an ethnographic-qualitative design and was conducted in a community setting in West Java, Indonesia. A total of 16 participants of Sundanese culture were recruited based on information from local health workers and community leaders. Questionnaires, semi-structured interviews and observation sheets were used to collect data on cultural beliefs that impacted pregnant women. Data were analysed using an editing analysis style. Results: The seven themes were: dietary practices and restrictions during pregnancy, hygiene practices, managing sleep and drowsiness, sexual intimacy and interactions, cultural beliefs and religious devotion, family participation and challenges monitoring fetal wellbeing. Conclusions: To ensure quality pregnancy and fetal care, and facilitate provision of basic needs and parental empowerment, healthcare workers must consider women's cultural beliefs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]