Medicinal plants used to treat maternal and paediatric health related ailments in the Nkomazi Local Municipality, Mpumalanga province, South Africa

Abstract

Background: No prior research has explored the use of medicinal plants for treating maternal and paediatric health-related ailments in the Nkomazi Local Municipality. This study aimed to investigate the utilization of medicinal plants by traditional healers in the region for specific maternal and paediatric-related conditions.

Methods: Ethnobotanical data were collected between July 2021 and October 2021 using semi-structured questionnaires and guided field walks with traditional healers.  Plants were identified by collecting plant specimens from the wild and existing literature. Quantitative analysis was done through quantitative ethnobotany indices such as relative frequency of citations.

Results: The study documented 19 plant species from 13 families commonly used for maternal and paediatric ailments, with the Fabaceae family being the most prevalent. Roots were the most frequently utilized plant part, followed by bark and leaves. Decoction was the predominant method of preparation, and oral administration was the most common route of administration.  The plant species with the highest relative frequency of citation (RFC) were Capparis tomentosa, Grewia monticola, and Ximenia caffra.

Conclusions: Nineteen plant species from thirteen families were identified as commonly used for maternal and paediatric related ailments, in rural communities of the Nkomazi Local Municipality. The study also identified four previously undocumented plant species. The findings underscore the need to educate traditional healers about sustainable harvesting practices and provide potential avenues for scientific investigation and cross-cultural comparisons.

Keywords: Medicinal plants, Maternal healthcare, Paediatric healthcare, traditional.