A study of natural habitats and uses of medicinal plants in Thulamela and JS Moroka Municipalities, South Africa

作者：Masafu M M; Mbajiorgu C A^*; Nemadodzi L E; Kabine E S

来源：Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 2016, 15(3): 363-369.

• Inyangas
• Indigenous plants
• Diseases
• Complimentary medicine
• South Africa

A survey was conducted in Dr JS Moroka (site 1) and Thulamela (site 2) local municipalities in South Africa with the overall aim of investigating plant families, forms, natural habitats and common uses of medicinal plant species identified in the study sites. Data collection was achieved by conducting face-to-face interviews with traditional healers in both sites. A structured questionnaire served as a data collection tool during the interviews. Results showed that 13 plant species belonging to 11 botanical families in site 1, and 13 plant species from 10 families in site 2 were recorded. The most common families in both sites were, Asteraceae, Amaryllidaceae, Hyacinthaceae and Zingiberaceae. In site 1, most of the medicinal plants (76.9%) grew on grasslands while 15.4% grew on mountains and only one plant species (Alepidea amatymbica) was seen growing on wetlands. In site 2, the majority (69.2%) of the species grew on mountains while 23 % grew on grasslands; and only one plant species (Gunnera perpensa) grew on wetlands. The majority of growth types in site 1 were herbs (76.9%), followed by shrubs (23.1%). In site 2 most of the growth types were herbs (69.2%), followed by shrubs, small trees and creepers (30.8%). Medicinal plants were used for influenza, sore throat, high blood pressure, tuberculosis, coughs sexually transmitted diseases, continuous diarrhoea, and purification of blood among other uses. The use of medicinal plants for the treatment of various ailments differed in both sites, which was attributed to strong cultural differences which are informed by indigenous knowledge systems. It was concluded that collaboration between traditional healers, communities and local governments needs to be improved to enhance the delivery of alternative healthcare. Such an approach should recognize the "significance of traditional healers" and the "contributions of communities and the government" as a "necessary framework" for working together in "complementary efforts toward common goals" for the efficient use of traditional medicine therapy.

• 出版日期2016-7