August 1, 2024Open Access

Ethnobotanical study of the traditional use of medicinal plants used for treating human diseases in selected districts of West Gojjam zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia

Key Points

The study identifies 97 medicinal plants used traditionally, emphasizing the Fabaceae family as the most common.
The informant consensus factor of 0.92 suggests high agreement on the use of Olea europaea for dermatological issues.
Data were collected through semi-structured questionnaires, focus group discussions, and field observations across three districts between late 2021 and late 2022 in Ethiopia's Amhara region, involving 30 key informants and 399 general ones for a broad analysis of plant use patterns and practices in the area, ultimately highlighting traditional knowledge loss due to human activities like charcoal production and agriculture, which undermine the biodiversity of medicinal plants.

Abstract

Introduction: Historically, Ethiopians have relied on medicinal plants to heal a wide range of human diseases. However, indigenous knowledge associated with medicinal plants has been lost due to the secrecy of the knowledge transfer system and several anthropogenic factors. Thus, this study was aimed to document ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants in three districts (Sekela, Dembecha, and South Achefer) of west Gojjam zone of the Amhara Regional State. Methods: Ethnobotanical data were collected between November 28, 2021 to December 22, 2022 using a semi-structured questionnaire, a focus group discussion, and field observations. Data were gathered from 30 key informants and 399 general informants. Key informants and general informants were selected by purposively and random sampling method, respectively. Descriptive statistics and ranking analyzing methods was used to analyze the data. During the process of data analysis, we pooled data from three districts into a single dataset. Combining data from three districts into one analysis allows for a broader understanding of the traditional knowledge and practices within the districts. Results: A total of 97 medicinal plants were identified, with the Fabaceae family being the most prominent, followed by the Asteraceae. Herbs were the dominant plant habit, and leaves were the most frequently used plant part for medicines. The most common method for preparing remedies was crushing, and oral delivery was the primary administration method. Olea europaea was identified as the most multipurpose plant species, particularly effective under high pressure, with an informant consensus factor of 0.92 for dermatological diseases. Calpurnia aurea was the top ranked for treating diarrhea, followed by Rumex nepalensis. The decline of medicinal plants in the study areas was primarily due to charcoal production and agricultural activities, leading herbalists to collect remedies from forests and remote locations. Conclusion: This study underscores the vital role of indigenous knowledge and biodiversity by documenting medicinal plant use in Sekela, Dembecha, and South Achefer districts. Urgent conservation measures are imperative to safeguard these plants and sustain traditional medicinal practices.

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