Ethnobotanical studies in the genus Sansevieria Thunb. (Asparagaceae) in Zimbabwe.

Authors

  • Ratidzayi Takawira Nyenya University of Oslo, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Natural History Museum
  • Brita Stedje University of Oslo, Natural History ;useum

Keywords:

Sansevieria, Asparagaceae, ethnobotany, use categories, Zimbabwe

Abstract

 

A study investigating ethnobotanical uses and ethnotaxonomy of the genus Sansevieria Thunb. (Asparagaceae) in Zimbabwe is presented. Direct observation of plant use by informants, open-ended and informal interviews covering questions on local names of species, uses, mode of administration and the specific plant part used were employed during the study. Ethnobotanical uses for four species; Sansevieria aethiopica Thunb., Sansevieria hyacinthoides (L.) Druce, Sansevieria kirkii Baker and Sansevieria pearsonii N.E.Br. were recorded from 60 informants. A total of 11 use categories were defined; ornamentals, medicinal use in humans, medicinal use in animals, food, play, processed fiber, unprocessed fiber, crafts, making whip ends, spiritual uses and other uses. Medicinal use in humans was the most prevalent category, contributing 33% of the total responses. Several uses of Sansevieria in Zimbabwe not previously documented in the literature are described for the first time in this study. 

 

Author Biographies

Ratidzayi Takawira Nyenya, University of Oslo, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Natural History Museum

Universirty of Oslo, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Resources, Natural History Museum, PhD stipendiate

Brita Stedje, University of Oslo, Natural History ;useum

Professor, Botanic Garden, Natural History Museum

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Published

2011-12-22

How to Cite

Takawira Nyenya, R., & Stedje, B. (2011). Ethnobotanical studies in the genus Sansevieria Thunb. (Asparagaceae) in Zimbabwe. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 9, 421–443. Retrieved from https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/657

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Section

Research

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