Ethnobotanical knowledge and traditional uses of Omvong (Dialium spp., Fabaceae) tree species in Gabon: a sociocultural and phytotherapeutic perspective

Abstract

Background: Omvong (Dialium spp., Fabaceae) tree species are integral to the traditional medicinal and cultural practices of many ethnolinguistic groups in Gabon. Despite their widespread cultural importance, the ethnobotanical diversity and sociocultural dynamics underpinning their use remain poorly documented.

Methods: Ethnobotanical surveys were conducted among 15 ethnolinguistic groups across five provinces in Gabon. A total of 1,180 semi-structured interviews were carried out with knowledgeable practitioners of traditional herbal medicine, in order to document local perceptions, therapeutic uses, preparation techniques, and the sociocultural contexts associated with the use of Dialium species. Data were analyzed using Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA) to identify distinct ethnobotanical patterns among communities.

Results: Significant variations were observed in the transmission and application of traditional knowledge, strongly influenced by sociocultural factors such as marital status. Elderly respondents, along with married or widowed individuals, exhibited notably deeper ethnobotanical knowledge, highlighting their key roles as custodians of traditional practices. Medicinal uses dominated, particularly for the treatment of febrile illnesses (e.g., malaria, typhoid), reproductive disorders, and parasitic infections. Additionally, ritualistic and practical uses underscored the multifunctional nature of Omvong species. MCA revealed distinct usage patterns correlated with ecological availability and cultural specificities: the Baka community displayed highly homogeneous knowledge transmission, whereas groups such as Akele and Galoa exhibited more fragmented knowledge systems.

Conclusions: This study underscores the cultural and therapeutic significance of Omvong in Gabonese ethnomedicine, highlighting the necessity of integrating traditional ethnobotanical knowledge into sustainable healthcare and natural resource management strategies. Further research should focus on isolating and validating bioactive compounds to enhance the scientific foundation of traditional knowledge, supporting culturally respectful and ecologically sustainable healthcare interventions.

Keywords: Forest species; Dialium sp.; Gabon; Potential utilizations; local knowledge