The ethnomedicinal plants of Purko, Maasai in Central Narok, Kenya

Authors

  • Kristin Hedges Grand Valley State University
  • Timothy Evans Grand Valley State University
  • Joseph Ole Kipila Olosho Initiatives

Abstract

Background: Indigenous plants are integral to the Maasai community’s healthcare throughout East Africa. This research documented traditional medicinal knowledge (TMK) among the Purko Maasai community in Kenya. While this knowledge has typically been orally transmitted, a request was made by local elders to write it down for future generations.

Methods: Using a Participatory Action Research (PAR) approach, researchers and community members collaborated with the director of Olosho Initiatives in study design, participant recruitment, and data gathering.

Results: The community identified 31 plant species. Common medicinal usage was determined through In-depth interviews and consensus analysis. From the total, there were 15 plants noted specifically for their preventative health benefits, including body strengthening and immunity enhancement.

Conclusions: Almost half of the plants documented had uses that were preventative in nature, which highlights how this traditional knowledge both endures and remains relevant

Keywords: Maasai; Ethnobotany; Traditional Medicinal Knowledge

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Published

2026-01-23

How to Cite

Hedges, K., Evans, T., & Ole Kipila, J. (2026). The ethnomedicinal plants of Purko, Maasai in Central Narok, Kenya. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 33, 1–9. Retrieved from https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/8001

Issue

Vol. 33 (2026)

Section

Research

License

All articles are copyrighted by the first author and are published online by license from the first author. Articles are intended for free public distribution and discussion without charge. Accuracy of the content is the responsibility of the authors.