Herbological Studies of Selected Plant Species Commonly Found In Savanna and Rain Forest Zones of Nigeria

Abstract

Twenty plant species commonly found in savanna and forest zones of Nigeria were selected for herbological studies. The research work was carried-out in 5 areas within Ibadan. The areas are Ode-aje, Idi-arere, Omi-adio, Akobo and Bode. The plant species were identified with the help of personal recognition, field guide and a taxonomist. For the medicinal uses, data was gotten from 45 respondents that included elders (above 60 years of age), hunters and night guards, herbalists and herbs sellers through interview which was recorded, processed and presented. Data gathered were common names, botanical names, family names, indigenous names (Yoruba, Hausa and Igbo), useful parts of the plants, preparation methods, routes of administration and ailments cured. The data collected from the interview were presented using statistical tool of table presentation. From the result, it was shown that the plant species identified are very useful in the area of medicinal needs of the people by combating various sicknesses and diseases such as malaria, typhoid fever, pain, sexually transmitted diseases, pile, dizziness and others with correct and adequate administered dosage. It was then concluded that traditional knowledge on health is cheap, available and of high efficacy in Nigeria. And that all the plant species in the zones and other parts of the nation are of significant importance to sustainable health status of the people which pharmaceutical industries should embark upon in term of exploration research for improvement and utilization maximization.