Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used by the indigenous people of Ilorin, North Central, Nigeria

Abstract

Objectives: The medicinal plant continues to play a key role in primary health-care delivery in Nigeria. It is important to preserve the indigenous knowledge of the use of these plants in the treatment of different ailments. In this study, a total of 46 informants were interviewed using a structured questionnaire administered within six randomly selected locations in Ilorin, Kwara State, North Central, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: Demographic data, information on the medicinal plants, medicinal parts, method of preparation, administration, and uses were obtained. Results: Fifty-five species belonging to 53 genera in 40 families were identified to be useful in the treatment of various ailments such as gonorrhea, yellow fever, measles, convulsion, fracture, skin diseases, piles, typhoid, and diabetes. The most frequently used families are Solanaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Fabaceae, Meliaceae, Rubiaceae, and Malvaceae. Herbal remedies were either prepared from dry or freshly collected plants, while the traditional solvents of choice included water, pure honey, alcohol, and aqueous extract from fermented maize. The most common method of preparation is decoction, followed by infusion; others include powder, pastry, and ointment. The leaves are the most common plant part used for herbal preparation. Conclusion: Residents in the study areas found traditional medicine potent and cheaper compared to orthodox medicine. Conscientious efforts should be made to conserve medicinal plant genetic components for future use, and they should be exploited for the production of new drugs.