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Derso YD, Kassaye M, Fassil A, Derebe B, Nigatu A, Ayene F, Tamer M, Van Damme P. Composition, medicinal values, and threats of plants used in indigenous medicine in Jawi District, Ethiopia: implications for conservation and sustainable use. Sci Rep 2024; 14:23638. [PMID: 39384598 PMCID: PMC11464621 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-71411-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 10/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Indigenous knowledge of medicinal plants is vital to local communities and cultural heritage, particularly in Ethiopia. This study aims to document native medicinal plants in the Jawi district, including associated traditional knowledge. The study involved conducting semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and guided field walks with a purposefully selected 54 traditional healers. The study identified 87 medicinal plant species from 50 families used treat over 50 ailments, with a preference for wild herbs. Fabaceae, Malvaceae, and Solanaceae were the most prominent families, each with five species; Zehneria scabra, was the most often mentioned species, followed by Lepidium sativum, Myrica salicifolia, Carissa spinarum, and Momordica foetida. 43% of identified species were herbs, with 44% of remedies made from roots. Pounding was the most common preparation method, and oral application was the most frequent use, followed by dermal application. 60% plants treated human ailments, 16% treated livestock, and 24% were used for both. Preference rankings indicated specific plants favored for certain ailments. The study highlights key plant families and species crucial for local healthcare but notes threats like habitat destruction and knowledge loss. Urgent conservation actions are needed to preserve medicinal plants and inform future research and strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonas Derebe Derso
- Department of Forestry and Climate Science, Injibara University, Gondar, Ethiopia.
| | - Melkamu Kassaye
- Department of Forestry and Climate Science, Injibara University, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Amare Fassil
- Department of Biology, Injibara University, Injibara, Ethiopia
| | - Binega Derebe
- Department of Natural Resource Management, Injibara University, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Amsalu Nigatu
- Department of Forestry and Climate Science, Injibara University, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Fentahun Ayene
- Department of Forestry and Climate Science, Injibara University, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Mulugeta Tamer
- Department of Forestry and Climate Science, Injibara University, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Patrick Van Damme
- Czech University of Life Sciences, Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences, Prague, Czech Republic
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Zou FX, Huang JX, Lin SM, Wang DH, Zhou XL, Huang QP, Cai JF. Application of association rules and simulated annealing algorithms in optimizing traditional Chinese medicine placement schemes. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:1167. [PMID: 39363315 PMCID: PMC11451172 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-11687-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2024] [Indexed: 10/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM China has used traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to treat diseases for more than 2000 years. Traditionally, TCMs in medicine cabinets are arranged alphabetically or on the basis of experience, but this arrangement greatly affects dispensing efficiency. However, owing to the unique properties and qualities of TCM, very few automatic approaches or systems have specifically addressed TCM dispensing problems. Therefore, it is necessary to establish a method of optimizing the traditional Chinese medicine placement scheme (TCMPS) via computer algorithms to improve the work efficiency of pharmacists. METHODS A prescription dataset from a hospital in 2022 was obtained, and the association rule algorithm (ARA) was used to calculate the frequency of use for each type of TCM and the associations between different types of TCMs. On the basis of these association and frequency data, the optimal TCMPS was calculated using the simulated annealing algorithm (SAA) and then verified using the prescription dataset from 2023. RESULTS A total of 10,601 prescriptions were collected in 2022, involving 360 different TCMs, and each prescription contained an average of 9.485 TCMs, with Danggui (3628) being the most frequently used. When the threshold of support was set to 0.05 and the confidence was set to 0.8, 78 couplet medicines used in orthopedics clinics were found through ARA. When the threshold value of support was set to 0, the confidence was set to 0, and the rule length was 2, a total of 129,240 rules were obtained, indicating support between all pairwise TCMs. The TCMPS, calculated using SAA, had a correlation sum of 14.183 and a distance sum of 3.292. The TCMPS was verified using a prescription dataset from 2023 and theoretically improved the dispensing efficiency of pharmacists by approximately 50%. CONCLUSIONS In this study, the ARA and SAA were successfully applied to pharmacies for the first time, and the optimal TCMPS was calculated. This approach not only significantly improves the dispensing efficiency of pharmacists and reduces patient waiting time but also enhances the quality of medical services and patient satisfaction, and provides a valuable reference for the development of smart medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu-Xian Zou
- Department of Pharmacy, Quanzhou Orthopedic Traumatological Hospital, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian, PR China
| | - Jian-Xiang Huang
- Department of Pharmacy, Quanzhou Orthopedic Traumatological Hospital, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian, PR China
| | - Shu-Ming Lin
- Department of Pharmacy, Quanzhou Orthopedic Traumatological Hospital, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian, PR China
| | - Dong-Hong Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Quanzhou Orthopedic Traumatological Hospital, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian, PR China
| | - Xiao-Lan Zhou
- Department of Pharmacy, Quanzhou Orthopedic Traumatological Hospital, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian, PR China
| | - Qiu-Ping Huang
- Department of Pharmacy, Quanzhou Orthopedic Traumatological Hospital, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian, PR China.
| | - Jian-Feng Cai
- Department of Pharmacy, Quanzhou Orthopedic Traumatological Hospital, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian, PR China.
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Misganaw W, Yiblet Y. Ethnobotanical Study of Medicinal Plants in Tehuledere District, Northwest Ethiopia. ScientificWorldJournal 2024; 2024:3420352. [PMID: 39364257 PMCID: PMC11449547 DOI: 10.1155/2024/3420352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 10/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Medicinal plants have constituted a fundamental aspect of human health and wellness for millennia. The objective of this study was to document medicinal plants used to treat human and livestock ailments in the Tehuledere District. The data were collected using semistructured interviews, focus group discussions, and field observations with local informants. Preference ranking, direct matrix ranking, and informant consensus factor were used for data analysis. A total of 63 medicinal plant species belonging to 59 genera and 41 families were documented. The predominant families identified were Lamiaceae and Asteraceae, each containing 6 and 5 species, respectively. Of the recorded medicinal plants, 53 (80.95%) species were used for human ailments, whereas 12 (19.05%) species were used for animal health issues. Among the recorded medicinal plant species, shrubs constitute the highest number with 35% species. The most frequently used plant parts were leaves, accounting for 59% of remedies targeting human ailments. The administration of herbal treatments was primarily oral, aimed at addressing various diseases. The most significant threat to these medicinal plants was attributed to agricultural expansion, followed by the collection of firewood. The aim of documenting the use of medicinal plants in the treatment of diseases was to capture traditional practices, with species such as Eucalyptus globulus, Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata, and Lepidium sativum serving as the foundational basis for future pharmacological studies. It is imperative to prioritize the conservation of Laggera tomentosa and Urtica simensis to safeguard biodiversity and the cultural traditions associated with these endangered species. Engaging local communities in the management and conservation of plant resources, along with the preservation of their traditional knowledge, presents a cost-effective and sustainable solution.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yalew Yiblet
- Department Biology Mekdela Amba University, Tulu Awuliya, Ethiopia
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Nuro G, Tolossa K, Arage M, Giday M. Medicinal plants diversity among the oromo community in heban-arsi district of Ethiopia used to manage human and livestock ailments. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1455126. [PMID: 39372211 PMCID: PMC11450779 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1455126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 10/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Medicinal plants are commonly employed mainly due their accessibility, affordability and potency. However, medicinal plants and the associated knowledge are disappearing at an alarming rate due to natural and anthropogenic causes and thus a need for their proper documentation conservation. This study was performed to document traditional knowledge related to use of medicinal plants in Heban-Arsi district, West-Arsi Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia. Methods Interviews were conducted with 185 informants to identify medicinal plants used in traditional therapies in the study area. Informant consensus factor (ICF), rank order priority (ROP) values were computed, and preference ranking exercises were performed to assess the relative importance of medicinal plants. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to measure and compare medicinal plants knowledge between social groups. Results A total of 120 medicinal plants were identified for being used to treat different human and animal illnesses in the study area. Most of the medicinal plants (76.4%) were uncultivated ones obtained from different habitats. Leaf was the most frequently used plant part constituting 62.6% of preparations. Oral was the most commonly used route of remedy administration (46%) in treating diseases. Gastrointestinal ailments category had the highest ICF value (0.83). In the study area, the highest rank order priority (ROP) values were recorded for Dombeya torrida (J.F. Gmel.), Artemisia absinthium L., Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Del., Combretum pisoniiflorum Klotzsch) Engl., Celtis africana Burm. f, Ocimum gratissimum L. and Lagenaria sp. for their uses against snake poison, tuberculosis, liver disorder, stomachache, tuberculosis, febrile illness and liver disorder, respectively, each scoring a value of 100. Significant differences in medicinal plant use knowledge were recorded between male and female informants of different educational level, age and experience. Anthropogenic factors were the primary threats to medicinal plants in the area. Conclusion The study area was found to be rich in medicinal plants that are useful in treating a wide range of human and animal illnesses. In future pharmacological and phytochemical investigations, priority needs to be given to medicinal plants of the highest ROP values and those that were reported against ailment categories scoring the highest ICF values.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Mirutse Giday
- Aklilu Lemma Institute of Pathobiology, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Anbessa B, Lulekal E, Debella A, Hymete A. Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants in Dibatie district, Metekel zone, Benishangul Gumuz Regional State, western Ethiopia. JOURNAL OF ETHNOBIOLOGY AND ETHNOMEDICINE 2024; 20:85. [PMID: 39278939 PMCID: PMC11404030 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-024-00723-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Herbal medicine has been used for the treatment of human and livestock ailments since ancient times. Numerous rural and urban communities in Ethiopia practice traditional medicine and transfer the knowledge verbally from generation to generation. Thus, this study was conducted to document the traditional medicinal plants and associated indigenous knowledge in Dibatie district, Metekel zone, Benishangul Gumuz Regional State, western Ethiopia. METHODS Three hundred seventy-four (374) informants from 11 kebeles (the smallest administrative units) were selected and participated in the data delivery. The ethnobotanical data collection was carried out using semi-structured interviews, preference ranking, direct matrix ranking, field observation, market surveys, and focus group discussions, including voucher specimen collections. The ethnobotanical data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency and percentage), ranking, comparison, and quantitative ethnobotanical techniques such as informant consensus factor, fidelity level index, Jaccard's coefficient of similarity, and use value index. RESULTS A total of 170 plant species were recorded to treat 79 human and 29 livestock ailments. Fabaceae (with 20 species) and Asteraceae (with 18 species) were the most dominant medicinal plant families in the area. Most remedial plants were herbs (61 species, 35.88%), followed by shrubs (39 species, 22.94%). The majority (135 species, 79.41%) of medicinal plants were harvested from wild sources and mainly possessed multiple remedy parts (41.17%) that are usually prescribed in fresh form (60.13%). The most commonly reported human ailment was snake venom, while blackleg was mostly reported among livestock diseases. The herbal medicines were mostly administered orally (52.20%), followed by dermal (17.62%) application. Embelia schimperi Vatke, Glinus lotoides L., Haplosciadium abyssinicum Hochst., Mucuna melanocarpa Hochst. ex A. Rich., and Phragmanthera macrosolen (Steud. ex A. Rich.) M.G.Gilbert had the highest fidelity level values (100%) against the corresponding ailments. CONCLUSION The study area is rich in a diversity of potential medicinal plants and associated indigenous knowledge. Thus, appropriate conservation actions and careful utilization are essential to counteract the rise of anthropogenic threats and to ensure the continuity of plants with the related indigenous knowledge. Additionally, the medicinal plants should be validated through experimentation to integrate local knowledge with modern medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baressa Anbessa
- Department of Plant Biology and Biodiversity Management, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Addis Ababa University, PO Box 3434, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
- Department of Biology, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Bule Hora University, Bule Hora, Ethiopia.
| | - Ermias Lulekal
- Department of Plant Biology and Biodiversity Management, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Addis Ababa University, PO Box 3434, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Asfaw Debella
- Directorate of Modern and Traditional Medicine Research, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Ariaya Hymete
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Awoke A, Gudesho G, Akmel F, Shanmugasundaram P. Traditionally used medicinal plants for human ailments and their threats in Guraferda District, Benchi-Sheko zone, Southwest Ethiopia. JOURNAL OF ETHNOBIOLOGY AND ETHNOMEDICINE 2024; 20:82. [PMID: 39223653 PMCID: PMC11367917 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-024-00709-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The field of traditional medicine encompasses a wide range of knowledge, skills, and practices that are deeply rooted in the theories, beliefs, and experiences of different cultures. The research aimed to identify traditional medicinal plants used in Guraferda District and assess the threats they face. METHOD A total of 96 individuals, 80 males and 16 females, were interviewed to gather ethnobotanical data. Statistical tests like independent t tests, ANOVA, correlation, and regression were conducted using R software version 4.3.2 to compare informant groups. RESULT The study found 81 medicinal plant species in the district from 71 genera and 38 families, with Asteraceae and Solanaceae families having the most species. Leaves were the most commonly used plant part for medicine. Significant differences in plant knowledge were observed across genders, age groups, education levels, and experiences. The highest ICF value was for Dermal and Cutaneous ailments, and Cissampelos mucronata A. Rich and Bidens pilosa L. had the highest fidelity levels. CONCLUSION The study highlighted the importance of traditional medicinal plants in treating ailments but noted threats like overharvesting, habitat destruction, and climate change. Conservation efforts and sustainable harvesting practices are crucial to ensure the availability of these plants for future generations. Further research is needed to explore their potential for modern medicine and develop sustainable use strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashebir Awoke
- Department of Biology, Mizan-Tepi University, Tepi, Ethiopia.
| | - Girma Gudesho
- Department of Biology, Mizan-Tepi University, Tepi, Ethiopia
| | - Fetku Akmel
- Department of Biology, Mizan-Tepi University, Tepi, Ethiopia
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Fassil A, Mazengia E, Gebreamanuel B, Dessie Y, Kumera B, Atnkut B, Mullualem D, Tsega A, Van Damme P. Harvesting nature's bounty: exploring the ethnobotanical landscape of wild edible plants in the Awi Agäw community, Northwestern Ethiopia. JOURNAL OF ETHNOBIOLOGY AND ETHNOMEDICINE 2024; 20:59. [PMID: 38816853 PMCID: PMC11140977 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-024-00696-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Feeding the world's future population while still facing a variety of socioeconomic and climate change scenarios with uncertain outcomes is a key global societal concern that should be addressed in a science-based manner. Ethiopia boasts a great diversity of wild edible plant species (WEPS), but millions of its citizens still suffer from chronic hunger every year. In this context, we here document the use and conservation of WEPS in the Awi Agäw community, Northwestern Ethiopia. METHODS We performed a cross-sectional study from October 2021 to June 2022. Ethnobotanical and conservation status data were collected via semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, field walks and market surveys. A total of 374 respondents from three districts (Guangua, Jawi and Ankasha) were purposely selected for the study. Descriptive statistics, including preference rankings, frequencies and direct matrix rankings, were employed for the data analysis. RESULTS We identified a total of 39 WEPS plant taxa distributed among 26 families and 32 genera. The Moraceae and Rosaceae had the greatest numbers of plants, with five and three species, respectively. The WEPS are regularly consumed in the study area to alleviate hunger. However, threats such as habitat loss, agricultural expansion, deforestation for firewood and other reasons, and pesticide use threaten WEPS availability. CONCLUSION Therefore, community-based conservation interventions need to be encouraged to safeguard WEPS and associated traditional knowledge. Furthermore, nutritional quality analysis is recommended for the selection of promising WEPS candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amare Fassil
- Department of Biology, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Injibara University, Injibara, Ethiopia.
| | - Ethiopia Mazengia
- Department of Biology, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Injibara University, Injibara, Ethiopia
| | - Bekele Gebreamanuel
- Department of Biology, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Injibara University, Injibara, Ethiopia
| | - Yitayih Dessie
- Department of Biology, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Injibara University, Injibara, Ethiopia
| | - Bulti Kumera
- Department of Biology, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Injibara University, Injibara, Ethiopia
| | - Belsti Atnkut
- Department of Biology, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Injibara University, Injibara, Ethiopia
| | - Destaw Mullualem
- Department of Biology, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Injibara University, Injibara, Ethiopia
| | - Alemu Tsega
- Department of Biology, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Injibara University, Injibara, Ethiopia
| | - Patrick Van Damme
- Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
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Seraw E, Melkamu Y, Masresha G. Traditional lore on the healing effects of therapeutic plants used by the local communities around Simien Mountains National Park, northwestern Ethiopia. JOURNAL OF ETHNOBIOLOGY AND ETHNOMEDICINE 2024; 20:43. [PMID: 38632559 PMCID: PMC11025143 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-024-00678-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Simien Mountain National Park is a world heritage site with spectacular landscapes and rich in floral diversity. Exploring the plethora of conventional wisdom regarding therapeutic flora for sustainable use and drug development is a timely endeavor. Thus, the present study was aimed at investigating therapeutic plant uses and conservation practices by the local communities dwelling in the vicinity of the Park. METHODS Eighty randomly selected general informants and 20 purposefully selected key informants were used to collect the traditional lore from 10 purposefully selected kebeles that border the Park. Data were collected using face-to-face interviews, guided field walks, group discussions and market surveys. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the basic information collected from the informants. An independent sample t test was computed to compare the knowledge variations among different informant groups. Clustering and ranking techniques were employed to validate traditional wisdom of informants. RESULTS Significant differences in traditional wisdom (P < 0.05) were observed only between general and key informants. Hundred thirteen therapeutic plant species belonging to 56 families were recorded. Asteraceae was the most species-rich family (10%). The majority of therapeutic species were collected from the wild (77%). Herbs and roots were the most preferred habit (47%) and plant parts (37%) for remedy preparation, respectively. Pounding was the most common preparation method (50.1%). The most frequently practiced route of administration was the oral route (48.1%). The highest Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) value (84%) was recorded for respiratory and febrile illnesses. Rumex nepalensis was the most preferred for the treatment of wounds, and Olea europaea subsp cuspidata was the first-ranked multipurpose plant. CONCLUSION The Park is rich in therapeutic species serving as a refuge for many endemic and endangered species associated with the local community rich medicinal traditional lore. Erosion of therapeutic plants, verbal transfer of the traditional wisdom and young generation negligence in acquiring traditional lore led to the deterioration of the long tradition of using therapeutic plants for health care. Endangered multipurpose therapeutic plants like Echinops kebericho should get conservation priority. Therapeutic plants with the highest ICF and fidelity level could be candidates for drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Endalkachew Seraw
- Biology Department, University of Gondar, P.O. Box 196, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Yirgalem Melkamu
- Biology Department, University of Gondar, P.O. Box 196, Gondar, Ethiopia.
| | - Getinet Masresha
- Biology Department, University of Gondar, P.O. Box 196, Gondar, Ethiopia.
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Nuro GB, Tolossa K, Giday M. Medicinal Plants Used by Oromo Community in Kofale District, West-Arsi Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia. J Exp Pharmacol 2024; 16:81-109. [PMID: 38476311 PMCID: PMC10929209 DOI: 10.2147/jep.s449496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to record the utilization of medicinal plants by the Oromo people in the Kofale District, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia, to control human and animal health problems. Methods Data regarding the use of medicinal plants were collected using ethnobotanical methods from 84 traditional medicine practitioners and 304 general informants sampled employing purposive and systematic random sampling methods, respectively, in the Kofale District. Data were analyzed using different indices, including a preference ranking exercise, informant consensus factor (ICF), fidelity level (FL) and relative popularity level (RPL). Results In the district, 106 medicinal plants were claimed to be used for the treatment of 43 human and 18 livestock illnesses, of which 75 (71%) were used to manage human health problems, 23 (21.5%) were used to treat both human and livestock ailments and eight (7.5%) were utilized to treat manage livestock health problems. Most (76.4%) plants were harvested from the wild. Leaves were the most commonly used plant part (55.6%) in remedy preparations. Skin diseases scored the highest ICF value (0.97), followed by gastrointestinal disorders (ICF = 0.95), cancer (ICF = 0.93), and hemorrhoids (ICF = 0.91). Medicinal plants that record the highest fidelity level (FL) (100%) and rank order priority (ROP) (100%) values included Justicia schimperiana, Embelia schimperi, Ekebergia capensis and Datura stramonium, which have been used to treat liver disorders, tapeworm infections, babesiosis, and rabies, respectively. There were significant differences (p<0.05) in the mean numbers of medicinal plants claimed by different social groups: older, illiterate, and traditional medicine practitioners reported higher mean numbers of medicinal plants than younger, literate, and general informants, respectively. Conclusion This study indicated the richness of medicinal plant species in Kofale District. Medicinal plants with the highest FL and ROP values and those used to treat disease categories with the highest ICF values should be prioritized in future phytochemical and pharmacological investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geritu Bedasso Nuro
- Aklilu Lemma Institute of Pathobiology, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Ketema Tolossa
- Aklilu Lemma Institute of Pathobiology, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Mirutse Giday
- Aklilu Lemma Institute of Pathobiology, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Tamene S, Negash M, Makonda FB, Chiwona-Karltun L. Influence of socio-demographic factors on medicinal plant knowledge among three selected ethnic groups in south-central Ethiopia. JOURNAL OF ETHNOBIOLOGY AND ETHNOMEDICINE 2024; 20:29. [PMID: 38419117 PMCID: PMC11340053 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-024-00672-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The influence of socio-demographic variables was widely explored to evaluate their impact on indigenous and local ethnobotanical knowledge. However, the studies conducted in Ethiopia mainly focused on rural areas. They were limited to exploring and documenting ethnobotanical knowledge and the associated impacts of socio-demographic variables in rural-urban interface areas among ethnic groups. Hence, this study aimed to document plant-based indigenous and local ethnomedicinal knowledge and the associated impacts of socio-demographic variables among selected three ethnic groups in south-central Ethiopia. METHODS Ethnobotanical data were collected using semi-structured interviews with 189 key informants, floristic species inventories, and field observations. Quantitative approaches were used to evaluate the use values (UV) of the most important medicinal plants, the informant consensus factor (ICF), fidelity level (FL), relative popularity level (RPL), and rank-order priority (ROP). Statistical tests were applied to evaluate the influences of socio-demographic factors and associations between variables on local ethnobotanical knowledge across ethnic groups in different informant categories. RESULTS Statistical analysis revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) in the mean number of medicinal plants reported among age categories. There was also a positive association between the respondent's age and plant knowledge acquisition. Croton macrostachyus Hochst. ex Delile, Albizia gummifera C.A.Sm., Zingiber officinale Roscoe, Aloe macrocarpa Tod., Gymnanthemum amygdalinum (Delile) Sch.Bip., Calpurnia aurea (Aiton) Benth, and Allium sativum L. had the highest use values among ethnic groups. The highest informant consensus factor values were recorded for circulatory system disorders (0.68) followed by febrile illness and reproductive organ complications (0.66 each) across the three studied ethnic groups. The highest FL, RPL, and ROP values were noted for Lactuca inermis Forssk., Moringa stenopetala (Baker f.) Cufod., Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, Allium sativum L., Citrus limon (L.) Osbeck, Ricinus communis L., Schinus molle L., Antiaris toxicaria (J.F.Gmel.) Lesch., Brucea antidysenterica J.F.Mill., Echinops kebericho Mesfin, Ocimum jamesii Sebald, Afrocarpus falcatus (Thunb.) C.N.Page, Searsia natalensis (Bernh. ex Krauss) F.A.Barkley, and Ricinus communis L. across ethnic groups in the study areas, which showed the conformity of knowledge on species curing potential and their prevalent uses. CONCLUSION The study revealed that the ethnic groups of Gedeo, Oromo, and Sidama have considerable indigenous and local ethnobotanical knowledge practices. Statistical analysis shown high variation in the acquisition of local ethnobotanical knowledge among age groups, which boosted our understanding of the effects of socio-demographic factors on the local ethnobotanical knowledge dynamics. Thus, this finding advocates for efforts to repair the observed generation gap via continued professional support and educating local communities to preserve traditional knowledge and practices through systematic documentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sintayehu Tamene
- Wondo Genet College of Forestry and Natural Resources, Hawassa University, PO Box 05, Hawassa, Ethiopia.
| | | | | | - Linley Chiwona-Karltun
- Department of Urban and Rural Development, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
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Alemu M, Asfaw Z, Lulekal E, Warkineh B, Debella A, Sisay B, Debebe E. Ethnobotanical study of traditional medicinal plants used by the local people in Habru District, North Wollo Zone, Ethiopia. JOURNAL OF ETHNOBIOLOGY AND ETHNOMEDICINE 2024; 20:4. [PMID: 38178202 PMCID: PMC10768247 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-023-00644-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ethiopia is a country located in the Horn of Africa, which combines richness in plant resources and cultures of human plant use. The people of Habru District of North Wollo Zone (Amhara Region, Ethiopia) have a long history of use of plant resources for various purposes including in traditional herbal remedy preparation and use. However, the district has not been adequately studied for its ethnobotanical resources and the associated knowledge. This study focused on human medicinal plants and their traditional uses in Habru District. The objective of the study was to document and analyze the plant species used by the local communities to treat human ailments along with the associated traditional knowledge and practices. METHODOLOGY The study was carried out in Habru District from June 2021 to December 2022. Ethnobotanical data were collected using semi-structured interviews, guided field walks, 13 focus group discussions (one at the district level and 12 at the kebele/subdistrict level) and market surveys. A total of 388 informants (250 males and 138 females) were selected from all 13 kebeles within Habru District using systematic random sampling, and 42 key informants were purposively selected. Descriptive statistics, preference ranking, direct matrix ranking, informant consensus factor and fidelity level were applied for data analysis. RESULTS The results provide insights into the medicinal plant diversity within Habru District, where 134 plant species in 110 genera and 54 families were documented, including 2 endemics, highlighting the district's significance in biodiversity conservation and healthcare delivery. Disease prevalence analysis showed that gastrointestinal and parasitic ailments (ICF = 0.85), febrile diseases (ICF = 0.84), and culture-related conditions exhibit high informant consensus factors. Remedy preparation involves various plant parts, predominantly leaves (47.3%), followed by roots (22.1%), fruits (7.0%), and seeds (5.8%). Freshly harvested plant parts were frequently used (58.2%), while 24.7% involved both dried and fresh parts. Oral application (47.3%) and topical use (31.8%) are the major routes of remedy administration. The marketability of medicinal plants was evident, with 16.4% of the species reported as marketable, including Terminalia brownii Fresen. Myrtus communis L., Ruta chalepensis L., Olea europaea L. subsp. cuspidata (Wall. & G.Don) Cif., Allium sativum L. and Capsicum annuum L. Multipurpose plants such as Solanum somalense Franchet. (91.3% FL), Ocimum lamiifolium Hochst. ex. Benth. (88.9% FL), and Verbascum sinaiticum Benth. (85.7% FL) exhibited notable healing potentials. CONCLUSION The current study underscores the intricate relationship between the local community and medicinal plants, emphasizing the importance of biodiversity conservation and health care and acknowledging the dynamic interplay between cultural heritage and ecosystem health. The results contribute to the development of sustainable conservation strategies, healthcare practices and the preservation of traditional knowledge, and highlight the interdependence of human societies and their natural environments. Community-based conservation initiatives with active participation of local communities are desirable for the conservation and sustainable use of medicinal plant species and their habitats. Raising public awareness about the sustainable harvesting and utilization of marketed medicinal plants (e.g., Terminalia brownii Fresen.) that are under threat is also important to ensure their availability for future generations and contribution to socioeconomic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mulugeta Alemu
- Department of Plant Biology and Biodiversity Management, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
- Department of Urban Agriculture, Nefas Silk Polytechnic College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
| | - Zemede Asfaw
- Department of Plant Biology and Biodiversity Management, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Ermias Lulekal
- Department of Plant Biology and Biodiversity Management, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Bikila Warkineh
- Department of Plant Biology and Biodiversity Management, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Asfaw Debella
- Armauer Hansen Research Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Bihonegn Sisay
- Armauer Hansen Research Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Eyob Debebe
- Armauer Hansen Research Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Birhan YS. Medicinal plants utilized in the management of epilepsy in Ethiopia: ethnobotany, pharmacology and phytochemistry. Chin Med 2022; 17:129. [PMCID: PMC9675240 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-022-00686-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a common central nervous system (CNS) disorder that affects 50 million people worldwide. Patients with status epilepticus (SE) suffer from devastating comorbidities and a high incidence of mortalities. Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are the mainstream treatment options for the symptomatic relief of epilepsy. The incidence of refractory epilepsy and the dose-dependent neurotoxicity of AEDs such as fatigue, cognitive impairment, dizziness, attention-deficit behavior, and other side effects are the major bottlenecks in epilepsy treatment. In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), epilepsy patients failed to adhere to the AEDs regimens and consider other options such as complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) to relieve pain due to status epilepticus (SE). Plant-based CAMs are widely employed for the treatment of epilepsy across the globe including Ethiopia. The current review documented around 96 plant species (PS) that are often used for the treatment of epilepsy in Ethiopia. It also described the in vivo anticonvulsant activities and toxicity profiles of the antiepileptic medicinal plants (MPs). Moreover, the phytochemical constituents of MPs with profound anticonvulsant effects were also assessed. The result reiterated that a lot has to be done to show the association between herbal-based epilepsy treatment and in vivo pharmacological activities of MPs regarding their mechanism of action (MOA), toxicity profiles, and bioactive constituents so that they can advance into the clinics and serve as a treatment option for epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihenew Simegniew Birhan
- grid.449044.90000 0004 0480 6730Department of Chemistry, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Debre Markos University, P.O. Box 269, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
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