The Effect of Moringa Leaf Nutrition Education Using Leaflet Media on the Knowledge Level of Breastfeeding Mothers at Puskesmas Buaran

Abstract

Adequate maternal nutrition during lactation is essential for ensuring optimal breast milk production and quality.
Moringa leaves (Moringa oleifera) are a rich local source of galactagogues, iron, and essential nutrients, yet
community knowledge regarding their nutritional benefits remains suboptimal. Educational interventions using visual
media, such as leaflets, provide an accessible method to enhance health literacy among breastfeeding mothers.
Objective: This study aimed to determine the effect of Moringa leaf nutrition education using leaflet media on the
knowledge level of breastfeeding mothers at Puskesmas Buaran. Method: This study employed a pre-experimental
design utilizing a one-group pretest-posttest approach. The population consisted of breastfeeding mothers in the
working area of Puskesmas Buaran, with a sample of 96 respondents selected via purposive sampling. Data were
collected using a validated structured questionnaire administered before and after the educational intervention.
Univariate and bivariate analyses were conducted using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test in SPSS. Results and
Discussion: The results demonstrated a substantial increase in maternal knowledge scores following the intervention.
The mean knowledge score improved from a pre-test baseline of 68.06 to a post-test score of 93.87. Statistical analysis
using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test yielded a p-value of 0.001 (p < 0.05), confirming a statistically significant effect
of the nutrition education intervention. The improvement highlights the effectiveness of using leaflet media as a
structured visual aid that reinforces health communication, facilitates information retention, and successfully
empowers breastfeeding mothers with practical knowledge regarding nutritional management and galactagogue
utilization. Conclusion: Moringa leaf nutrition education utilizing leaflet media significantly improves the knowledge
level of breastfeeding mothers at Puskesmas Buaran. Health services are encouraged to integrate visual educational
tools into routine postpartum care to optimize maternal nutritional practices and lactation support.