Work

Ethnobotanical study of traditional medicinal plants and associated indigenous knowledge in Melokoza District, South Ethiopia

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: • The rich diversity of plants with medicinal properties is truly remarkable. • Identifying the specific parts of these plants used in traditional practices is a vital component of our understanding. • Knowledge about their natural habitats and preparation methods is fundamental to the ethnobotanical study. • The variation in preference rankings and Informant Consensus Factor values reflects the deep connections and shared wisdom among those who rely on these plants. • Agricultural expansion poses challenges, yet it underscores the importance of preserving our traditional medicinal plants for future generations. Preserving traditional medicinal knowledge and the community's relationship with plants is essential for environmental and health protection. This study documented traditional medicinal plants and community practices in the Melokoza from 2023 to 2024. A purposive sampling technique was employed to select sampled Kebeles. Overall, 390 respondents were identified to gather information on medicinal plants using a questionnaire survey. Preference Ranking, Fidelity Level, and Informant Consensus Factor were used to analyze the data. In general, 140 medicinal plants grouped into 115 genera of 56 families were identified in this study. Asteraceae was the most dominant family representing 19.3 % of the medicinal plants identified, followed by Lamiaceae (13.57 %). Leaves were the most commonly used part of the plants, making up 67.9 % of the plant parts used, followed by roots (10 %). Fresh plant parts were mainly used for medicine (85.71 %). Most medicinal plants were found in home gardens (27.86 %) and forest areas (22.86 %). Cold water extraction (56.92 %) was the most common method of traditional medicine preparation, followed by crushing (19.23 %). The most common way to take medicine was by drinking it in solution form. Croton macrostachyus was noted for its high preference ranking in treating wounds. The highest informant consensus factor value was recorded for stopping bleeding (0.98) and stopping vomiting (0.97) illness. The research showed that agricultural expansion is severely degrading traditional medicinal plants in Melokoza. Urgent conservation and sustainable management are needed, along with further study in the district.

Source: Trees Forests and People

DOI: 10.1016/j.tfp.2025.100849

Authors: Ayele Chashike, Simon Shibru, Tizazu Gebre, Abera Uncha

Institution: Arba Minch University

Language: English

Topic: Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies

Subfield: Plant Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,680