Traditionally used medicinal plants for human ailments and their threats in Guraferda District, Benchi-Sheko zone, Southwest Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: The field of traditional medicine encompasses a wide range of knowledge, skills, and practices that are deeply rooted in the theories, beliefs, and experiences of different cultures. The research aimed to identify traditional medicinal plants used in Guraferda District and assess the threats they face. METHOD: A total of 96 individuals, 80 males and 16 females, were interviewed to gather ethnobotanical data. Statistical tests like independent t tests, ANOVA, correlation, and regression were conducted using R software version 4.3.2 to compare informant groups. RESULT: The study found 81 medicinal plant species in the district from 71 genera and 38 families, with Asteraceae and Solanaceae families having the most species. Leaves were the most commonly used plant part for medicine. Significant differences in plant knowledge were observed across genders, age groups, education levels, and experiences. The highest ICF value was for Dermal and Cutaneous ailments, and Cissampelos mucronata A. Rich and Bidens pilosa L. had the highest fidelity levels. CONCLUSION: The study highlighted the importance of traditional medicinal plants in treating ailments but noted threats like overharvesting, habitat destruction, and climate change. Conservation efforts and sustainable harvesting practices are crucial to ensure the availability of these plants for future generations. Further research is needed to explore their potential for modern medicine and develop sustainable use strategies.

Antiasthmatic Medicinal Plants of Tanzania: An Ethnomedicinal and Ethnopharmacological Review.

Traditional medicinal plants (TMPs) are a significant part of people's quality of life, offering a natural substitute for modern drugs with numerous side effects. In Tanzania, data on antiasthmatic TMPs are highly fragmented. This review, a comprehensive compilation of ethnobotanical research evidence, aimed to provide a thorough understanding of TMPs used by the locals for asthma management and identify species that have already been investigated in preclinical studies. The review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. To gather relevant literature on antiasthmatic TMPs used by Tanzanians, a web search using electronic databases (Scopus, PubMed, ProQuest, Academic Library, Web of Science, SciFinder, Wiley Online Library, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and African Journals Online) was conducted. The scientific names were verified through the Plants of the World Online database, and the collected information was analysed for descriptive statistics using Microsoft Excel software. The ethnomedicinal information was obtained from 24 different articles. Microsoft Excel software was used to analyse the data using descriptive statistics. A total of 62 TMPs belonging to 33 families were identified. Species of the Fabaceae (14.5%) and Rubiaceae families (8.1%) are the most utilized. The analysis revealed that trees (42.0%) and leaves (40.0%) are the most utilized life forms and plant parts, respectively. Most plant materials (59.7%) used to make remedies were collected from the wild environment. Decoction (55.0%) is the dominant preparation method of remedies, and the majority (69.0%) were orally administered. Of the recorded TMPs, 22.6% had their in vivo antiasthmatic activity reported in the literature. The review also highlighted the strategic significance of preparations of remedies made from TMPs for discovering and developing new antiasthmatic drugs. However, the need to identify the molecular targets of action and toxicological aspects of the TMPs should be considered.

Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants in Dibatie district, Metekel zone, Benishangul Gumuz Regional State, western Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: Herbal medicine has been used for the treatment of human and livestock ailments since ancient times. Numerous rural and urban communities in Ethiopia practice traditional medicine and transfer the knowledge verbally from generation to generation. Thus, this study was conducted to document the traditional medicinal plants and associated indigenous knowledge in Dibatie district, Metekel zone, Benishangul Gumuz Regional State, western Ethiopia. METHODS: Three hundred seventy-four (374) informants from 11 kebeles (the smallest administrative units) were selected and participated in the data delivery. The ethnobotanical data collection was carried out using semi-structured interviews, preference ranking, direct matrix ranking, field observation, market surveys, and focus group discussions, including voucher specimen collections. The ethnobotanical data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency and percentage), ranking, comparison, and quantitative ethnobotanical techniques such as informant consensus factor, fidelity level index, Jaccard's coefficient of similarity, and use value index. RESULTS: A total of 170 plant species were recorded to treat 79 human and 29 livestock ailments. Fabaceae (with 20 species) and Asteraceae (with 18 species) were the most dominant medicinal plant families in the area. Most remedial plants were herbs (61 species, 35.88%), followed by shrubs (39 species, 22.94%). The majority (135 species, 79.41%) of medicinal plants were harvested from wild sources and mainly possessed multiple remedy parts (41.17%) that are usually prescribed in fresh form (60.13%). The most commonly reported human ailment was snake venom, while blackleg was mostly reported among livestock diseases. The herbal medicines were mostly administered orally (52.20%), followed by dermal (17.62%) application. Embelia schimperi Vatke, Glinus lotoides L., Haplosciadium abyssinicum Hochst., Mucuna melanocarpa Hochst. ex A. Rich., and Phragmanthera macrosolen (Steud. ex A. Rich.) M.G.Gilbert had the highest fidelity level values (100%) against the corresponding ailments. CONCLUSION: The study area is rich in a diversity of potential medicinal plants and associated indigenous knowledge. Thus, appropriate conservation actions and careful utilization are essential to counteract the rise of anthropogenic threats and to ensure the continuity of plants with the related indigenous knowledge. Additionally, the medicinal plants should be validated through experimentation to integrate local knowledge with modern medications.

Traditional healing practices, factors influencing to access the practices and its complementary effect on mental health in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVES: In areas with limited and unaffordable biomedical mental health services, such as sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), traditional healers are an incredibly well-used source of mental healthcare. This systematic review synthesises the available evidence on traditional healing practices, factors to access it and its effectiveness in improving people's mental health in SSA. DESIGN: Systematic review using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses approach. DATA SOURCES: PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL and Scopus studies published before 1 December 2022. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: Qualitative and quantitative studies reported traditional healing practices to treat mental health problems in SSA countries published in English before 1 December 2022. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Data were extracted using Covidence software, thematically analysed and reported using tables and narrative reports. The methodological quality of the included papers was evaluated using Joanna Briggs Institute quality appraisal tools. RESULTS: In total, 51 studies were included for analysis. Traditional healing practices included faith-based (spiritual or religious) healing, diviner healing practices and herbal therapies as complementary to other traditional healing types. Objectively measured studies stated that people's mental health improved through collaborative care of traditional healing and biomedical care services. In addition, other subjectively measured studies revealed the effect of traditional healing in improving the mental health status of people. Human rights abuses occur as a result of some traditional practices, including physical abuse, chaining of the patient and restriction of food or fasting or starving patients. Individual, social, traditional healers, biomedical healthcare providers and health system-related factors were identified to accessing traditional healing services. CONCLUSION: Although there is no conclusive, high-level evidence to support the effectiveness of traditional healing alone in improving mental health status. Moreover, the included studies in this review indicated that traditional healing and biomedical services collaborative care improve people's mental health. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42023392905.

Ethnozoological study of medicinal animals used by the inhabitants of the Kucha District, Gamo Zone, Southern Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: An ethnozoological study of medicinal animals in the Kucha district, Gamo zone, Southern Ethiopia, was conducted to investigate and document the use of traditional medicinal animals and the associated indigenous knowledge. Tribal people still make abundant use of animals and their parts to manage diseases in humans and even livestock. METHOD: A cross sectional study design and purposively sampling techniques were used. Data were collected from 132 respondents based on semi structured questionnaires. Focus group discussions (FGD) and Key informant interviews (KII) were conducted; Fidelity level (FL), Relative frequency of citation (RFC) and Informants' consensus factor (ICF) were used to analyze species preference and importance. RESULTS: A total of 24 medicinal animals were identified with 13 species (54.2%) being mammals of which 5 species (20.8%) dominated. They were followed by arthropods, reptiles and fishes. Seven out of the total were domestic species (29%) and 17 (70%) were wild animals. The majority of these animals, i.e. 22 (91.7%), were used to treat human ailments; whereas 2 (8.3%) were used to treat livestock ailments. The ICF values varied from 0.8 to 1.The highest FL value (98%) was linked to the cow (cattle), the lowest (1.5%) to the scorpion. The RFC value (1.0) was highest for the cow and lowest (0.02) for the scorpion. Honey, milk, and butter were the most commonly used therapeutic animal products, but regarding direct uses, fresh/raw meat dominated. Out of ten ailment categories, headaches had the lowest ICF value (0.8). All others scored at least 0.9. CONCLUSIONS: In rural areas, sick people often do not only have limited access to modern medical facilities, they actually prefer traditional treatments considering them to be more reliable and effective. It is therefore important to focus on documenting, conserving, and safeguarding the indigenous knowledge so that strategies to manage the traditional wisdom can be implemented in the future. To achieve these goals, it is important to make sure that medicinal animal species are available in sufficient numbers and neither threatened by habitat changes or overexploitation.

Exploring the lived experiences of women with infertility using traditional healthcare services in Harare urban, Zimbabwe.

Infertility has a significant impact on the lives of women. Therefore, affected women often consider the treatment options available to deal with their condition, including traditional healthcare services (THS). The aim of this phenomenological study was to explore the lived experiences of women with infertility problems who sought help from traditional health practitioners in Harare, Zimbabwe. Data from interviews with five women with infertility was explicated using a simplified version of Hycner (1985) five step explication process. Two major themes and eight sub themes emerged from the findings. The major themes were traditional diagnosis experiences and traditional treatment experiences. Consultation and divination were the diagnosis methods experienced by the women with infertility. The THS offered comprehensive management of infertility through couples therapy, as well as pre- and post-natal therapies, which include lifestyle counselling. The findings also showed that women with infertility commonly receive concurrent treatment, including both allopathic and traditional medicine. This presents an opportunity to explore the convergence of traditional and allopathic approaches in the management of infertility in women.

L'infertilité a un impact significatif sur la vie des femmes. Par conséquent, les femmes affectées envisagent souvent les options de traitement disponibles pour faire face à leur maladie, y compris les services de santé traditionnels (THS). Le but de cette étude phénoménologique était d'explorer les expériences vécues de femmes souffrant de problèmes d'infertilité qui ont demandé l'aide de praticiens de santé traditionnels à Harare, au Zimbabwe. Les données provenant d'entretiens avec cinq femmes infertiles ont été expliquées à l'aide d'une version simplifiée du processus d'explication en cinq étapes de Hycner (1985). Deux thèmes majeurs et huit sous-thèmes ont émergé des résultats. Les thèmes principaux étaient les expériences de diagnostic traditionnel et les expériences de traitement traditionnel. La consultation et la divination étaient les méthodes de diagnostic expérimentées par les femmes infertiles. Le THS proposait une prise en charge complète de l'infertilité grâce à une thérapie de couple, ainsi que des thérapies prénatales et postnatales, qui comprennent des conseils sur le mode de vie. Les résultats ont également montré que les femmes souffrant d'infertilité reçoivent généralement un traitement concomitant, comprenant à la fois la médecine allopathique et la médecine traditionnelle. Cela présente l'occasion d'explorer la convergence des approches traditionnelles et allopathiques dans la gestion de l'infertilité chez la femme.

Perceptions of ethnoveterinary medicine among animal healthcare practitioners in South Africa.

The South African government recognises the value of traditional healing and supports an integrated healthcare system. In the veterinary field, successful integration depends on the perceptions of different animal healthcare practitioners (AHCPs). This study aimed to determine the perceptions of ethnoveterinary medicine among state-employed veterinarians and animal health technicians in the North West province. A mixed model questionnaire and non-probability sampling gathered quantitative and qualitative data from 53 participants. Statistical and thematic analysis processes were applied to quantitative and qualitative data, respectively. Overall, 77.4% of participants were aware of ethnoveterinary medicine practices. Approval of the use of ethnoveterinary medicine by farmers was above-average at a mean of 3.57, standard deviation (s.d.) = 1.016 on a 5-point Likert scale. However, 65.9% doubted the effectiveness of ethnoveterinary medicine, which suggests tolerance but no appreciation of its value. The Chi-square test revealed a significant relationship between district municipality of employment and awareness at χ2 = 17.490, df = 3, p = 0.001. Thematic analysis of comments showed that some participants perceived ethnoveterinary medicine as unscientific and interfering with Western veterinary medicine, while some considered it a good complement to Western veterinary medicine. The study also found that 20.8% of AHCPs use ethnoveterinary medicine to treat certain diseases. In conclusion, the lack of appreciation for ethnoveterinary medicine among AHCPs may hinder government-proposed integration, emphasising the need for programmes to improve perceptions among these stakeholders.Contribution: This is first such study to report on perceptions of ethnoveterinary medicine among AHCPs, and assess their readiness for an integrated animal health system.

A discourse of african traditional healing tendencies with medicinal plants: An ethnobotanical study of the sukuma of Tanzania, 1922-1960s.

The use of medicinal plants in traditional healing practices is essential to Tanzanian and African health care. This paper examined the African traditional healing tendencies, particularly the Sukuma tribe of Tanzania, from 1922 to the 1960s. Several types of research challenged traditional healing tendencies' role in the health sector. They claimed that traditional healing has no scientific evidence or methodology and is inefficient. This paper comprises three objectives: the evolution of traditional healing practices among the Sukuma; the traditional healers' conceptualization and adaptation of social, economic, and ecological changes; and the challenges faced by the traditional healers. The study was conducted in Mwamapalala and Mwalushu Wards where Mwamunhu and Mwamigagani represented as sampled villages in Bariadi District. It used both qualitative and quantitative approaches that involved an interpretive, naturalistic approach to its subject matter. Archival materials were also used. The findings reveal that the traditional healers understood the nature of traditional healing in the pre-colonial period. Before colonial domination, all people in the region depended on the traditional medicines obtained from flora and fauna. Their ancestors were diviners, and few were herbalists. The paper concludes that the current healing practice in Tanzania results from the political transition from the colonial period to the independence era. Most people conceptualize that the government had neither effectively accepted the field of traditional medicine nor given the healers any support to sustain their activities. More often, traditional healers have been ignored by the government, and it has been claimed that traditional healing practices instigated violence and, therefore, threaten society.

Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants used to treat human ailments in Quara district, northwestern Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: Ethiopia is recognized as one of the centers of origin for the diversity of many plant species, including medicinal plants. Throughout the country, a large proportion of the population relies on these therapeutic plant species for primary healthcare. While such traditional medicinal knowledge has been documented in some regions, there is a lack of information from the Quara district of northwestern Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to document the indigenous and local knowledge of the use of medicinal plants among three ethnic groups residing in the area. METHODOLOGY: An ethnobotanical study was conducted from August 2022 to October 2023 in ten kebeles of the Quara district. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, field walks, and focus group discussions with 286 informants using snowball, purposive, and random sampling techniques. Quantitative analyses included Rahman's similarity index (RSI), informant consensus factor (ICF), and direct matrix ranking (DMR). Descriptive statistics were used to analyze basic ethnobotanical data. RESULTS: A total of 128 medicinal plant species from 112 genera and 50 families were documented and used to treat 14 disease categories. There was a 28% overlap in medicinal plant knowledge among the three ethnic groups studied. Fabaceae was the most represented family with 22 species. Trees accounted for the majority of the documented plants (37.5%), and leaves were the most commonly used plant parts (23.1%). Oral administration (56.7%) of plant extracts was the primary mode of remedy preparation and use. The highest ICF value (0.93) was recorded for circulatory and blood-related disorders. The study identified nine plants and 39 therapeutic uses not previously reported in Ethiopia. The RSI showed high overlap with neighboring areas and low similarity with distant areas. Top-ranked multipurpose plants were Ziziphus spina-christi and Terminalia leiocarpa, with agricultural expansion and fuelwood collection identified as major threats. CONCLUSION: The findings demonstrate the rich diversity of medicinal plants and associated traditional knowledge in the Quara district. The high ethnobotanical indices warrant further phytochemical and pharmacological investigations. Integrated conservation efforts are recommended to address the challenges facing these valuable plant resources.

Ethnobotany in Angola: The contribution of late 19th century christian missionaries to the knowledge of medicinal wild plants.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Angola has an extraordinary plant diversity and a great ethnobotanical potential. However, there is a general lack of information about the first botanical explorations in the country and their contribution to the knowledge of the medicinal flora. AIM OF THE STUDY: The main aim of this study was to unveil the ethnobotanical legacy of José Maria Antunes and Eugène Dekindt, priests of the first Catholic mission in Huíla (Angola) and shed light on their contribution to the knowledge of medicinal wild plants of the country, including information on the uses, plant parts used, and preparation methods documented in the late 19th century. The findings are discussed considering recent ethnobotanical studies to offer a more comprehensive understanding of the historical and traditional uses of plants in Angola over the last two centuries. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Based on the information available in manuscripts and on the study of botanical collections preserved in herbaria of Portugal and Angola, we extracted relevant information about the species used in traditional medicine by the rural population of Huíla, the health conditions treated, and the mode of preparation and application. RESULTS: Our results revealed that Antunes and Dekindt conducted the first ethnobotanical study in Huíla, and documented a large number of medicinal wild plants. From these, we report 191 medicinal species, including 25 endemic and four introduced species, belonging to 56 plant families and 146 genera. Fabaceae family presents the highest richness of medicinal plants (39 taxa), followed by Rubiaceae (13), Asteraceae (10), and Apocynaceae (9). The illnesses reported were classified into 15 different categories, with the highest number of species (49) corresponding to unspecific conditions, such as general pains, chills, and fever. Thirty-seven species were reported for respiratory diseases, 31 for musculoskeletal problems, and 30 for digestive issues. Leaves were the most used plant part for medicinal purposes (84 species). Infusion was the most frequently described preparation method (40 species), followed by maceration (24 species), and powdering (36 species). CONCLUSIONS: The legacy of Antunes and Dekindt's work improves our understanding of Angola's botanical richness and traditional uses of plant resources. Our findings highlight the presence of unique medicinal resources in Angola, especially among endemic species, which hold the potential to improve the quality of life of rural communities. Moreover, our research underscores the lack of knowledge of medicinal species, emphasizing the risk of losing valuable historical information.

Ethnomedicinal, phytochemical, pharmacological and toxicological profile of Mondia whitei: A review.

Mondia whitei is an aromatic plant native to sub-Saharan Africa. This spice is commonly used in the treatment of various diseases, such as hypertension, diabetes, erectile dysfunction, and premature ejaculation. This review was undertaken to provide updated information on the botanical, phytochemical, pharmacological, and toxicological knowledge of this plant of high relevance to African populations. Moreover, its mechanism of action was described based on previous experimental studies. Data were compiled from various online databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Science Direct, Web of Science, Springer link, Taylor and Francis, and SciFinder. Additionally, books, book chapters and proceedings were used as secondary sources. The chemical structures of phytocompounds were drawn using PubChem Sketcher program. M. whitei contains various phytocompounds, including reducing sugars, triterpenes, steroids, alkaloids, saponins, tannins, phenolics, hydrogen cyanide, carotenoid, oxalate and phytate. Moreover, para-pentylphenyl-benzoate, (-)-Loliolide, 5-chloropropacin, propacin, 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzaldehyde, isovanillin, 9-hexacosene, 2-hexen-1-ol, and heptacosane were isolated from this spice. M. whitei has several pharmacological benefits, including aphrodisiac, pro-fertile, pro-erectile, androgenic, antioxidant, antiparasitic, antimalarial, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, antiepileptic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antidepressant, antidiarrheal, hepatoprotective, antisickling, and anticancer activities. Toxicological studies showed an LD50 of above 5000 mg/Kg and no signs of toxicity after one week of oral treatment. The aphrodisiac effect of this spice is one of its main activities, supported by numerous experimental studies. Because M. whitei delays contractions of the bulbospongiosus muscles, its aphrodisiac effect could be mediated through the modulation of the spinal generator of ejaculation. This can justify its folkloric use in the treatment of premature ejaculation.

Exploring patient referral practices of traditional healthcare practitioners in Soshanguve, Gauteng Province, South Africa.

Introduction: It may be necessary for healthcare professionals to refer patients to other professionals and institutions that are able to provide the care needed by patients, depending on the severity each case presents, healthcare requirements, and resources available to offer care. In healthcare generally, patient referral is standard procedure; however, in South Africa, referral patterns between allopathic and traditional healthcare practitioners are unknown, and this is a problem yet to be addressed. Objectives: The study objective was to explore patient referral practices from the perspectives of traditional healthcare practitioners of South Africa. Methods: A qualitative, exploratory and descriptive design was employed to collect data from 11 traditional healthcare practitioners who were sampled using snowball sampling. An individual semi structured interview schedule was used to collect data. Content analysis was used to analyze the data. Results: Patient referral was common practice in traditional health practices, however not reciprocal between the traditional and allopathic healthcare. Several indications for patient referral to allopathic healthcare practitioners included management of chronic conditions amongst others. Discussion: Patient referral being an important part of healthcare practices should be promoted and regulation and traditional health practices improved to promote safe referral practices and curb unsafe self-referrals by patients.

Prevalence of traditional eye medicine and self-treatment in Gurage Zone, Rural Ethiopia.

INTRODUCTION: Traditional medicines are commonly used worldwide, especially in Africa-however, there is limited information on the prevalence and types of traditional eye medicine utilization in Ethiopia. The goal of this study was to determine the prevalence, the type and nature of traditional eye medicine use and practices related to self-medication for ophthalmic diseases in a rural Ethiopian population. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in six randomly selected primary health centers in rural Gurage Zone, Southern Ethiopia. Health-seeking behavior, use of self-medication, and traditional eye medicine were assessed in the population using a semi-structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression analysis were computed to determine associated factors for using self-medication and traditional eye medicine. RESULT: Of the 814 participants interviewed, 487 (59.8%) reported using traditional eye medicine, mainly for combinations of symptoms of ocular redness, irritation, and eye discharge (95.5%). Besides, 604 (74.2%) participants reported self-treatment with tetracycline 1% eye ointment. Older age, females, low income, no formal education, and lack of access to media were risks for utilizing traditional eye medicine. CONCLUSION: The use of traditional eye medicine and self-treatment are common in this population. Regulatory legislation, public awareness, and making eye care are vital activities required to monitor such practices.

Traditional healer support to improve HIV viral suppression in rural Uganda (Omuyambi): study protocol for a cluster randomized hybrid effectiveness-implementation trial.

BACKGROUND: Rural African people living with HIV face significant challenges in entering and remaining in HIV care. In rural Uganda, for example, there is a threefold higher prevalence of HIV compared to the national average and lower engagement throughout the HIV continuum of care. There is an urgent need for appropriate interventions to improve entry and retention in HIV care for rural Ugandans with HIV. Though many adults living with HIV in rural areas prioritize seeking care services from traditional healers over formal clinical services, healers have not been integrated into HIV care programs. The Omuyambi trial is investigating the effectiveness of psychosocial support delivered by traditional healers as an adjunct to standard HIV care versus standard clinic-based HIV care alone. Additionally, we are evaluating the implementation process and outcomes, following the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. METHODS: This cluster randomized hybrid type 1 effectiveness-implementation trial will be conducted among 44 traditional healers in two districts of southwestern Uganda. Healers were randomized 1:1 into study arms, where healers in the intervention arm will provide 12 months of psychosocial support to adults with unsuppressed HIV viral loads receiving care at their practices. A total of 650 adults with unsuppressed HIV viral loads will be recruited from healer clusters in the Mbarara and Rwampara districts. The primary study outcome is HIV viral load measured at 12 months after enrollment, which will be analyzed by intention-to-treat. Secondary clinical outcome measures include (re)initiation of HIV care, antiretroviral therapy adherence, and retention in care. The implementation outcomes of adoption, fidelity, appropriateness, and acceptability will be evaluated through key informant interviews and structured surveys at baseline, 3, 9, 12, and 24 months. Sustainability will be measured through HIV viral load measurements at 24 months following enrollment. DISCUSSION: The Omuyambi trial is evaluating an approach that could improve HIV outcomes by incorporating previously overlooked community lay supporters into the HIV cascade of care. These findings could provide effectiveness and implementation evidence to guide the development of policies and programs aimed at improving HIV outcomes in rural Uganda and other countries where healers play an essential role in community health. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05943548. Registered on July 5, 2023. The current protocol version is 4.0 (September 29, 2023).

UHPLC-MS/MS profiling and in vivo aphrodisiac and androgenic effects of the aqueous extract of the roots of Schumanniophyton magnificum (K. Schum.) Harms.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Schumanniophyton magnificum is a medicinal plant used to manage many ailments including malaria, skin diseases, parasitic infections, male sexual dysfunctions, female infertility and typhoid fever. However, no scientific investigation has been made for its folkloric use by the "Baka" Pygmies of Cameroon as an aphrodisiac. AIM OF THE STUDY: To investigate the aphrodisiac and androgenic activities of the aqueous extract of the roots of Schumanniophyton magnificum in male rats and analyze the phytoconstituents by UHPLC/MS. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-five male rats of 16-weeks old were divided into 5 groups and orally treated for 30 days with distilled water (10 ml/kg), or sildenafil citrate (5 mg/kg), or the aqueous extract of Schumanniophyton magnificum (43 mg/kg, 86 mg/kg and 172 mg/kg). The sexual behaviour parameters were monitored on day 1 and 30 by pairing male rats to receptive females. At the end of the experiment, rats were killed and the blood and reproductive organs were collected for histological sectioning, sperm analysis and biochemical analysis. The presence of phytoconstituents and their structures were revealed by UHPLC/MS. RESULTS: The plant extract significantly increased the mount, ejaculation and intromission frequencies in comparison to those in the normal control group; and significantly doubled the serum testosterone levels (2.15 ± 0.70 ng/ml) compared to the normal control group. UHPLC/MS of the aqueous extract of Schumanniophyton magnificum identified 7 major compounds such as Schumanniofioside A, Noreugenin and Rohitukine, with antioxidant and antibacterial activities. The plant extracts significantly increased the penile nitric oxide levels (P <0.05). These results were similar to those obtained after administration of sildenafil citrate. CONCLUSIONS: The aqueous extract of Schumanniophyton magnificum could be an alternative for erectile dysfunction management.

A scoping review of the use of traditional medicine for the management of ailments in West Africa.

BACKGROUND: The coexistence of traditional healing practices deeply rooted in cultural and historical contexts and the evolving landscape of modern healthcare approaches in West African societies creates a dynamic interplay between tradition and modernity in healthcare. This study aims to comprehensively map the landscape of traditional medicine use for health in West Africa. METHODS: A scoping review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology and reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. Research questions focused on the links between traditional medicine practices and health in West Africa. The systematic literature search covered PubMed, Web of Science, and CINAHL from database inception to September 2023. A descriptive analysis was conducted highlighting the years of publication, countries of publication, study designs of plant families and plant parts used for making traditional medicines, and the diseases the traditional remedies are for. RESULTS: The search identified 3484 records, with 46 articles meeting the inclusion criteria. Publications spanned from 1979 to 2023, with no observed trend in the number of publications over successive decades. Nigeria had the highest number of publications (54.3%), followed by Ghana (19.6%). The studies employed various designs, including clinical trials, ethnobotanical, ethnopharmacological, and experimental designs. Plant families frequently studied included Combretaceae, Euphorbiaceae, and Rubiaceae. Traditional remedies address various health issues, highlighting their versatility, from general symptoms to specific diseases. CONCLUSION: This scoping review offers an extensive overview of traditional healing practices in West Africa. The studies highlighted in this review stress the necessity for culturally sensitive healthcare interventions. The widespread use of traditional medicine and the variety of practices underscore the importance of encouraging collaboration between traditional healers and modern healthcare professionals. This review also identifies knowledge gaps and areas needing further research, setting the stage for future exploration into West Africa's intricate healthcare landscape.

Indigenous herbal medicine use and its associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care at public health facilities in Dire Dawa, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of indigenous herbal medicine use and its associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC) at public health facilities in Dire Dawa, Ethiopia. DESIGN: A facility-based cross-sectional study design. SETTING: The study was conducted in seven public health facilities (one referral hospital, three urban and three rural health centres) in Dire Dawa, Ethiopia, from October to November 2022. PARTICIPANTS: 628 pregnant women of any gestational age who had been on ANC follow-up at selected public health facilities were included. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Prevalence of indigenous herbal medicine (users vs non-users) and associated factors. RESULTS: The study revealed that 47.8% (95% CI 43.8% to 51.6%) of pregnant women used herbal medicines. Lack of formal education (adjusted OR, AOR 5.47, 95% CI 2.40 to 12.46), primary level (AOR 4.74, 95% CI 2.15 to 10.44), housewives (AOR 4.15, 95% CI 1.83 to 9.37), number of ANC visits (AOR 2.58, 95% CI 1.27 to 5.25), insufficient knowledge (AOR 4.58, 95% CI 3.02 to 6.77) and favourable perception (AOR 2.54, 95% CI 1.71 to 3.77) were factors significantly associated with herbal medicine use. The most commonly used herbs were garden cress (Lepidium sativum) (32%), bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina) (25.2%), moringa (Moringa oleifera) (24.5%). Common indications were related to gastrointestinal problems, blood pressure and sugar. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of herbal medicine use is high (one in two pregnant women) and significantly associated with education level, occupation, ANC visits, knowledge and perceptions. The study's findings are helpful in advancing comprehension of herbal medicines using status, types and enforcing factors. It is essential that health facilities provide herbal counselling during ANC visits, and health regulatory bodies ought to raise awareness and implement interventions to lower the risks from over-the-counter herbal medicine use by pregnant women.

Understanding maternal Ethnomedical Folklore in Central Uganda: a cross-sectional study of herbal remedies for managing Postpartum hemorrhage, inducing uterine contractions and abortion in Najjembe sub-county, Buikwe district.

Pregnant women in rural Uganda largely rely on medicinal plants for inducing labor, treating postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), and inducing abortion. 90% of the women in both rural and urban Uganda use plants to manage pregnancy symptoms like constipation, heartburn, morning sickness, body aches, nausea, and vomiting. After delivery women continue using plants to manage postpartum complications and for infant care especially herbal baths. This study documented how ethnomedical folklore has been used to aid childbirth, manage postpartum hemorrhage, and induce abortion. METHODS: A cross-sectional ethnobotanical survey was conducted from May - December 2023 in Najjemebe sub-county, Buikwe district. 206 respondents from 12 villages were selected using snowball sampling. Key informants included Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) and herbalists. Data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires and focus group discussions. Voucher specimens of the plants were identified and authenticated at Makerere University Herbarium. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Informant Consensus factor (ICF), Use Reports (URs), paired comparisons, and GraphPad Prism® version 9.0.0 software. RESULTS: All respondents (N = 206, 100%), used plants to induce labour, treat PPH, and induce abortion. One hundred four plant species were documented: most cited or preferred were: Hoslundia opposita (N = 109, 53%), Phytolacca dodecandra (N = 72, 35%), and Commelina erecta (N = 47, 23%). The plants belonged to 49 families, Lamiaceae (16.3%) and Fabaceae (14.3%) having the majority of the species. Herbs were 42 (40%) and trees 23 (22%). Oral administration 95(72%) was the commonest, then topical 19 (14.4%) and vaginal 14(10.6%). CONCLUSION: Health surveys revealed that about 27% of deliveries in Uganda take place outside a health facility. Due to the oxytocic effects of plant species reported in this study, they play a triple role of being uterotonics, abortifacients, and treating postpartum haemmorhage. The dilemma lies in the unknown dosages and toxicity levels that could endanger both the mother's and the unborn child's lives. Due to Uganda's high rates of population growth, overall fertility, maternal mortality, and morbidity, policies, and programmes on gendered health provision need to be reevaluated. Integrating herbal medicine into health care systems appears to be a feasible solution.

Integrating traditional medicine into the African healthcare system post-Traditional Medicine Global Summit: challenges and recommendations.

The World Health Organization (WHO) held the inaugural Traditional Medicine Global Summit in India in 2023 to promote the evidence-based integration of traditional medicine (TM) into the global healthcare system. This summit offers many opportunities for Africa, where most people rely on TM for health care. TM is widely accepted and affordable in the region but faces many challenges that limit its potential. This article identifies some of the most pressing challenges to incorporating TM into standard healthcare in Africa. It also proffers useful recommendations on how these issues may be addressed while identifying key stakeholders whose contributions may hamper or enhance the realization of WHO´s goals for TM in the continent.

The Influence of Culture on the Cause, Diagnosis and Treatment of Serious Mental Illness (Ufufunyana): Perspectives of Traditional Health Practitioners in the Harry Gwala District, KwaZulu-Natal.

Cultural beliefs influence the perceived cause, methods of diagnosis and treatment of mental illnesses. A qualitative study was conducted among traditional health practitioners (THPs) in the Harry Gwala District Municipality to further explore this influence. Purposive sampling assisted in the recruitment of 31 participants (9 males and 22 females). The four key themes this study investigated in relation to mental illness included its causes, methods of diagnosis, common symptoms observed and treatment approaches used by THPs, and the system of patient management. Culturally, mental illness was reported to be caused by witchcraft and an ancestral calling in this study. Mental illness was predominantly diagnosed by spiritual intervention which included divination through consultation with the ancestors, familial background, burning of incense which can also be part of communicating with the ancestors and through examining the patient. The common symptoms included aggression, hallucination and unresponsiveness. Prevalent modes of treatment included the use of a medicinal concoction and performing cultural rituals where ancestors and other spirits were assumed influential. The duration of the treatment process was dependent on guidance from the ancestors. Most causal aspects of mental illness from diagnosis to treatment seemed to be influenced by cultural beliefs and ancestors.