Revitalizing Krangean (Litsea cubeba)

Krangean (Litsea cubeba), a species from the Lauraceae family, holds significant economic and environmental potential. In addition to being a high-quality essential oil source for the perfume, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries, krangean also possesses anticancer, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties. However, in Tlogohendro Village, Petungkriyono District, this plant is becoming increasingly rare due to minimal cultivation efforts and extensive land conversion.

Recognizing the urgency of this issue, the Environmental Resilience Foundation of Indonesia (RELUNG INDONESIA) conducted a survey in Gondang and Klindon Hamlets in February 2025. The survey aimed to map and inventory existing krangean stands, assess natural regeneration potential, and understand the local community’s perception of its development.

Survey Methods: Identifying the Presence of Krangean

The survey employed a combination of community interviews, GPS coordinate mapping, and physical documentation of plant conditions. Findings revealed that krangean still grows wild on privately owned land and in secondary forests, albeit in limited numbers. In some areas, particularly in Gondang Hamlet, a significant number of natural seedlings were discovered, indicating strong natural regeneration potential. However, without proper protection and management, its sustainability could be at risk.

Community interviews revealed a keen interest in cultivating krangean, particularly if farmers are provided with access to high-quality seedlings, training, and market guarantees. The potential for krangean development becomes even more promising with the increasing global demand for Litsea cubeba essential oil.

Economic Potential of Krangean: From Essential Oil to Export Commodity

The essential oil extracted from Litsea cubeba is rich in citral (70-85%), making it a key ingredient in the perfume and pharmaceutical industries. According to the 2024 essential oil industry report, the global trade value of Litsea cubeba essential oil reached USD 80 million, with an annual growth rate of approximately 5%.

Beyond essential oil, krangean bark also holds economic value. In 2015, fresh krangean bark was priced at just IDR 1,500 – IDR 2,000 per kg, but its value has since surged to IDR 50,000 – IDR 65,000 per kg in online markets. This demonstrates a significant opportunity for local farmers to enhance their livelihoods through more systematic cultivation.

Strategies for Krangean Development and Conservation

Based on the survey findings, krangean cultivation in Tlogohendro Village can be advanced through several key strategies:

1. Nursery Development and Integrated Cultivation
   Establishing a village-based nursery to supply high-quality seedlings and accelerate krangean planting.
2. Sustainable Agroforestry
   Integrating krangean with horticultural crops to diversify income sources and maintain ecosystem balance.
3. Total Utilization Approach
   Maximizing the use of all plant parts, including agricultural waste, for value-added products such as biofuel and animal feed.
4. Improving Market Access
   Connecting farmers with local and international markets to ensure economic sustainability.
5. Habitat Conservation
   Establishing conservation zones, particularly in Gondang Hamlet, to protect krangean’s natural regeneration.

Conclusion: Time to Act for the Future of Krangean

This survey highlights krangean’s vast potential as both an economic commodity and a key element in environmental conservation. With support from the government, research institutions, and the private sector, krangean cultivation can serve as a solution to enhance community well-being while preserving the ecological balance in Petungkriyono.

If you are interested in contributing to krangean development—whether as a farmer, researcher, or investor—let’s work together to build a sustainable agroforestry system that benefits both the environment and the local economy!

Contributor:
Luqman H. P.