Exploring Floristic Diversity and Medicinal Plant Uses in Venda, Limpopo, South Africa

Plants have been an important source of medicine for thousands of years. To better understand the current diversity and usage of medicinal plants, floristic studies are essential. This report documents an expedition conducted in the Venda region of Limpopo, South Africa. The study was carried out in Shanzha and surrounding villages, as well as nearby forests. Collected plant species were identified using the Flora book and recent taxonomic literature, and information about their medicinal uses was obtained from both the literature and local inhabitants. A total of 151 species belonging to 58 families and 128 genera were documented. The dominant families were Fabaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Asteraceae, Malvaceae, Amaranthaceae, and Apocynaceae. The flora consisted of 63 herbs, 39 shrubs, 35 trees, and 14 climbers. The leaves, stems, flowers, fruits, and roots of these plants are used by local people to treat ailments such as cough, cold, skin allergies, diabetes, cancer, joint pain, eye infections, and digestive problems. This study provides foundational information on the medicinal flora of the region and their therapeutic applications. However, only a limited number of these plants have been scientifically screened for biological activity. Future studies will address their conservation status, phytochemical composition, and in vitro pharmacological potential.