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Ethnobotanical
Leaflets 13: 480 Ethnobotanical Uses of Plants Among the Binis in the
Treatment of Ophthalmic and Idu M., G.O. Obaruyi and J. O. Erhabor Department of Plant
Biology and Biotechnology, Issued
Abstract ���� An enthnobotanical survey of plants used
in the treatment of Ophthalmic and Key words: Ethnobotanical, Plants, Binis, Ophthalmic,
Ear, Nose and Throat, ailment. Introduction ����� Traditional medicine has remained the
most affordable and easily accessible source of treatment in the primary
health care system of resource poor communities and local therapy is the only
means of medical treatment for such communities (Yinger and Yewhalaw, 2007). ���� It has been reported that about one-fifth
of Americans use �natural� supplement such as herbs for maintaining health
(Stein, 2004). In developed countries such as ���� Ethnobotany is a preliminary method of
research, suitable for gathering information on the use of plants. It has
been proven, time and time again, that the �quack� medical knowledge handed
down by the common people constitutes sources of information useful for
scientific research and that many plants utilized exclusively in popular
tradition, when exposed under scientific examination, have been found to be
useful for different sectors in the industry, therefore science and tradition
have a strong connection between them, science in fact has often traditional
origin (Lentini, 2000). ���� During the last few decades there has
been an increasing interest in the study of medicinal plants and their
traditional use in different parts of the world but documenting the
indigenous knowledge through ethnobotanical studies is important for the
conservation and utilization of biological resources (Lev, 2006). There are
considerable economic benefits in the development of indigenous medicines and
in the use of medicinal plants for the treatment of various diseases (Azaizeh
et al., 2003). Due to less communication means, poverty, ignorance and
unavailability of modern health facilities, most people especially those in
rural areas are still forced to practice traditional medicine for their
common day to day ailment. Most of these people formed the poorest link in
the trade of medicinal plant (Khan et al., 2005). A vast knowledge of how to
use the plants against different illnesses may be expected to have
accumulated in areas where the use of plants is still of great importance
(Diallo et al., 1999). ���� In the developed countries, 25% of the
medical drugs are based on plants and their derivatives ( ���� Ethnomedical scholars in time past and
even now have made contributions to the development of the traditional
medical system in ����� The aim and objective of this study is
to document the Indigenous knowledge of the Bini people as regards the use of
medicinal plants for the treatment of ophthalmic and Materials and Methods The Study Area The study area covered
Ethnobotanical
Information ������ Ethnobotanical data were collected
through general conversation with informants in the field, between the months
of November, 2007 to February, 2008. During the course of the study fifty
informants were interviewed. Information was obtained through oral interview
guided by structural questionnaire (Appendix 1). Informants were selected
based on their knowledge of medicinal plants either for self-medication or
for treating others. Such informants were accompanied by the researcher to
nearby field for identification and collection. Plant
parts were collected using standard herbarium format. ���� During the interview vernacular names,
useful plant parts, method of preparation of remedy, dosage, side effect and
contraindications were recorded. Species Identification ���� The plant species were identified with
the aid of some published literatures: A Handbook on West African Weeds
(Akobundu and Agyakwa, 1998); Medicinal Plants of West Africa (Ayensu, 1978);
Trees of Nigeria (Keay, 1989); Taxonomy of West African Flowing Plants
(Olorode, 1984) and Ethnomedicinal Uses of Plants in Nigeria (Gill, 1992).
The voucher specimens of each species have been deposited at the Herbarium
section of the Department of Plant Biology and Biotechnology, Results and Discussion ���� The ethnobotanical survey revealed that a
total of twenty-four (24) plant species distributed in eighteen (18) families
and twenty-two (22) genera (Table 1, Figs. 1, 2, 3, and 4 and 5). The
following enumerated plants were identified with respect to their families
and genera. For each species, the botanical name, common name, vernacular
name, folk use, preparation of remedy dosage, literature. For all the plant
species, specific parts were used with different means of preparation of
remedy and different dosages were employed. Enumeration 1. FAMILY:������� ASTERACEAE BOTANICAL NAME: Ageratum conyzoides L. COMMON NAME:�������� Billy goat weed VERNACULLAR NAME:���������� Ebighedore Plant Part Used:
Leaves Folk Use: Leaves are
used to treat redness of the eye and inflammation. Preparation of Remedy:
Leaves are squeezed and the emanating juice is dropped into the eyes as eye
drop. Dosage: One drop,
twice daily. LITERATURE ���� The leaves for dressing wounds,
inflammation and redness of eye (Idu et al., 2003). Leaf powder is used
orally to cure leucorrhosea (Katewa and Asha, 1997). A decoction of the stem
bark, leaves and aerial branches of Ageratum conyzoides is used against
diarrhea (Igoli et al., 2005). A maceration of the whole plant and whole
plant of Sorghum guinensis is used for treatment of diabetes (Igoli et al.,
2005). Fresh leaves are chewed as an emetic, the leaves with the leaves of
Ocimum and bush pepper are used as a cure for abdominal disorders (Ayensu,
1978). ���� Whole plant contain flavonoids;
Cornyzarigum, 5�methoxynobile, Cardinalpinene, Limonene, cardinene,
oxygenated quiterpenoids, saponin, tannins (Gill, 1992). Whole plant: in
clinical trials with patient is with arthrosis, administered aqueous extracts
of the whole plant, reported analgesic effect in 66% of patients and
improvement in articulation mobility in 24% without side effects. Using
aqueous extract of the whole plant also verified effect clinical control of
arthrosis, reporting a decrease in pain and inflammation or improvement in
articulation mobility after a week of treatment (Idu et al,, 2007). 2. FAMILY NAME: AMARYLLIDACEAE BOTANICAL NAME: Crinum jagus (Thomson)�������� Dandy.������ ������������������������������� COMMON NAME: Poison
Bulb VERNACULAR NAME:
Ogede-odo Plant part use:
Leaves. Folk use: Leaves are
used for earache. Preparation of remedy:
Leaves are heated and then squeezed so that the juice comes out and common
salt is added. Dosage: The mixture of
the juice and common salt is dropped into the ear twice daily. LITERATURE ����� The warm leaf juice with a pinch of
common salt is used for ear complaints as an emetic (Gill, 1992). The decoction
of the bulb is used as vermifuge and purgative (Gill, 1992). The bulbs of
Crinum jagus and Crinum gluaim are used in traditional medicine in 3. FAMILY NAME:������
ANACARDIACEAE BOTANICAL NAME: Spondias mombin L. COMMON NAME: Hog plum VERNACULAR NAME:� Okhigha Plant part used:
Leaves Folk use: Infusion of
fresh leaves is used for the treatment of short sightedness and Infusion of
fresh leaves plus lime juice is used for the treatment of cataract. Preparation of remedy:
The fresh leaves are squeezed in water and filtered and also fresh leaves are
squeezed in water plus lime juice. Dosage: One cup thrice
daily. LITERATURE ���� The juice from fresh leaves with lime
juice is used against cataract (Adodo, 2004). The leaves are used against
convulsion and stomach ache (Idu et al., 2003). Infusion of leaves is used
for the treatment of cold and cough ( ���� Saponins, resins, tannins and alkaloids
are contained in the leaves; fruit juice and stem bark (Gill, 1992). Stem
bark: Contains Akaloid and tannins (Burkill, 1985), fibre and calcium (Idu et
al., 2002). The stem bark is fungicidal (Burkill, 1985) and showed
anti-turmour property when it was administered on Wister Rat (Idu et al.,
2002). 4. FAMILY NAME:� APOCYNACEAE ���� BOTANICAL NAME: Rauwolfia vomitoria
Afzel. ���� COMMON NAME: Swizzle stick ���� VERNACULAR NAME: Akata �Plant part used: Leaves �Folk use: Leaves are used for irritation of
the eyes. �Preparation of remedy: Juice is squeezed out
of fresh leaves. �Dosage: One drop into the eyes daily. LITERATURE ���� Urhobo people use the decoction of leaves
to induce sleep (Gill, 1992). Infusion of the powdered root in cold water is
used to treat nervous disorder, hypertension, insomnia and mental illness
(Gill, 1992). Leaf-pulp is taken in drought and used in message for chest
pain and leaf-sap is deemed able to arrest loss of hair and even to restore
it (Bouquet, 1972), alkaloids (Burkill, 1985). 5. FAMILY NAME: ASTERACEAE BOTANICAL NAME: Spilanthes filicaulis (Schum and Thom)
J.C.D. COMMON NAME: VERNACULAR NAME: Ehie
edo oto Plant part used:
Flower. Folk use: Used for
sore throat. Preparation or Remedy:
The flower is mixed with 3 seeds of alligator pepper or dry gin and chewed
then swallowed. Dosage: It is chewed
and swallowed twice daily LITERATURE The leaves along with
alum are recommended as emetic (Gill, 1992). Aqueous extracts of six plant
species used in Cameroonian ethno medicine for the relief of stomach
complaints were tested for anti ulcer activity. An HCL/ETOH solution was used
to induce gastric lesions in male wister rats (40 � 170g). The extracts of
Voacanga africana, Eremomastax speciasa, Emila practer missa, Spilanthes
filceaulis and Centella asiatica produced complete mucosal cytoprotectio ata
dose of 1000, 190, 500, 2000 and 500mg/kg respectively (Tan et al., 1999). 6.� FAMILY NAME:
BIGNONIACEAE BOTANICAL NAME: Newbouldia laevis (P. Beauv.) Seeman ex .
Bureau. ��������������������������������������� COMMON NAME: Tree of
life VERNACULAR NAME:
Ikhimwin Plant part use:
Leaves. Folk use: Decoction of
the leaves is used to treat sore eye, young fresh leaves are used to cure eye
inflammation and redness and the leaves are used for the treatment of ear
pain. Preparation of Remedy:
The leaves are squeezed and the juice from it is dropped into the eye and the
young fresh leaves are crushed in little amount of water and the extract is
dropped into the eye to cure eye inflammation and redness and the leaves are
heated and became weak and squeezed. The juice from it is dropped into the
ear against ear pain. Dosage: One drop,
twice daily. LITERATURE ���� A decoction of the roots with the roots
of Alstonia boonei, Jatropha curcas are used for the treatment of epilepsy
(Adodo, 2004). The stem bark with clay and red pepper is used against
pneumonia, fever, cold and cough (Idu et al., 2003) Decoction of leaves is
used against dental caries (Okeke, 2003). A decoction of leaves is used for
sore eyes (Irvine 1961; Uphof, 1968). The fresh bark is used against migraine
(Persistent headache) (Adodo, 2004).Leaves and stem bark: In the leaves and
the stem bark no flavonoids, saponins, quinines, terpenes, or steroids could
be detected (Bouquet, 1972). 7. FAMILY NAME: ����� CAPPARIDACEAE BOTANICAL NAME: Euadenia trifoliolata (Schum and
Thonn)� Oliv. COMMON NAME: ������� Euadenia VERNACULAR NAME: Oboh
yeho Plant part used:
Leaves. Folk use: Leaves are
used to treat ear ache. Preparation of remedy:
Heat the leaves and squeeze out the juice dropping it into the ear. Dosage: One drop,
twice daily. LITERATURE Roots, stem-bark,
fruits are used for treating tuberculosis, arthritis, otalgia, aphrodisiac, rectal
prolapse (Odugbemi and Akinsulire, 2006). 8.� FAMILY NAME:
CARICACEAE BOTANICAL NAME: Carica papaya L. COMMON NAME: Pawpaw VERNACULAR NAME: Uho Plant part used:
Seeds. Folk use: The
decoction of the seed is used for dissolving small fat deposits in the eyes
and eyelids. Preparation of remedy:
The seeds of this plant is boiled in water and extracted. Dosage: One drop into
the eyes twice daily. LITERATURE Uses reported: The
decoction of the root is used as a remedy for bronchitis. The root is also
effective against piles (Adodo, 2004). Leaves: The infusion of the yellow
leaves is used for malarial fever, the infusion of the green leaves for
diabetes and induced hypertension (Adodo, 2004). The decoction of the dried
leaves added to other leaves is used for treating malaria (Idu et al., 2005).
Infusion of the leaves is used to treat stomach ache (Ross, 1999). Seeds:
Decoction of seeds is effective in dissolving small fact deposits in the eyes
and eyelids and in dissolving small fat in cases of overweight (Gomez, 2004).
Fruits: An infusion of the whole unripe fruit into pieces is a very good
remedy for intestinal ulcer. A decoction of the fruit is used against
impotence (Adodo, 2004). The fresh fruit is eaten as a treatment for
beri-beri (Bhat et al., 1990). Fruit is also eaten for nausea, as a
carminative, for jaws, as an antipyretic, purgative and for dysentery
(Adesina, 1982). Leaves: The leaves
contain the alkaloid � carpaine, saponin, tannins, nicotinic acid and tocopherol (Gill,
1992). Fruit: The fruit contains beta-ocimene, 4-terpineol, malic acid and
methanol (Ross, 1999). Seeds: The seed contains glucocide carian (Gill,
1992). The seed has myrosin, caricin and cyclobranol (Ross, 1999). Fruit and
seeds: They contain alkaloids, salts, potassium, malic acid, pepsin,
pancreatin, papain, and vitamins A, B, and C. (Gomez, 2004). Leaves: The
acetone extract of the dried leaves have antibacterial activity (Ross, 1999).
Fruit: Extract of the ripe dried fruit has abortifacient effect with 100%
effectiveness, ). Seeds: The dried seeds have no anti-spermatogenic effect
(Das, 1980). Ethanol (95%) extract of the seed had hypotensive activity when
administrated intravenously to dogs and respiration was observed to be
depressed (Bose et al., 1961). 9. FAMILY NAME:������
EUPHORBIACEAE BOTANICAL NAME: Euphorbia hirta L. COMMON NAME: ������� Australian Asthma plant/garden spurge,
snake weed VERNACULAR NAME: Asin
Uloko Plant part used: Stem Folk use: Latex in the
freshly cut stem is used for treating conjunctivitis and is used for treating
ear pain. Preparation of Remedy:
The stem is broken to extract the latex and dropped into the ear. Dosage: One drop,
twice daily. LITERATURE ���� The plant decoction is useful in removing
worms in the bowel. It is also used for asthma and cough (Khan et al., 2005).
Leaves; the infusion is prescribed to nursing mothers for increased
lactation. The poultice of the leaves or the whole herb is a remedy for boils
and wound (Gill, 1992). Stem exudates is used as ear drop for pain (Igoli et
al., 2005). Whole plant: Contain Euphorbol hexacozonate cycloar-tenol,
ingenotiriacetate, tinyatoxin, tannins (Adodo, 2004). ���� The antispasmodic principle appears not
to be toxic orally. The aqueous extract of the principle was however toxic to
the mouse but the alcoholic extract was on toxic. 0.1 ml of the alcoholic
extract increased the rat limb flow. The alcoholic extract (0.1 ml) relaxed
the guinea pig ileum. Both extract had no effect on rabbit duodenum and
neuromuscular function but depressed the blood. No ganglionic blocking
activity no 5-hydroxyiryptamine-like activities were observed (Hezleton and
Hellerman, 1951). 10. FAMILY NAME: FABACEAE BOTANICAL NAME: Albizia lebbeck L. COMMON NAME: Lebbek tree LOCAL NAME:
Eshegeshege Plant part use:
Leaves. Folk use: Leaves are
used to treat night-blindness. Preparation of remedy:
The leaves are squeezed and the juice is applied to the eye as eye drop. Dosage: One drop,
twice daily LITERATURE ����� The bark and seeds are astringent and
they are used for the treatment of piles, diarrhea, dysentery and gonorrhea
(Gill, 1992). Seeds, leaves, stem bark are used for astringent, mouth wash,
river-blindness, gonorrhea (Odugbemi and Akinsulire, 2006). 11. FAMILY NAME: FABACEAE BOTANICAL NAME: Baphia nitida Lodd. COMMON NAME: VERNACULAR� NAME: otua Plant part used:
Leaves. Folk use: Leaves are
used to treat eye sore. Preparation of remedy:
Leaves are squeezed and the juice is applied to the eye. Dosage: One drop,
twice daily. LITERATURE ����� Leaves, bark, roots and twigs treats
constipation, skin diseases, venereal diseases, ringworm, enema, flatulence,
small pox (Odugbemi and Akinsulire, 2006). Leaves: tannin, flavonoids and
saponin glycosides, rich in flavoid (Onwukaeme, 1995). The constituents from
the leaves of Baphia nitida were extracted using methanol and acetone as
solvents. The extract did not demonstrate any acute toxic effects in mice
within the dose-range used during this study. The extract inhibited gastric
emptying time in rats and intestinal motility in mice, both effects were
manifested in a dose related fashion. These effects were similar but less
pronounced than those produced than those produced by atropine sulphate. The
extract did not induce gastric ulceration in rats and failed to protect
against acetyl salicylic acid induced gastric ulcer in rats or
histamine-induced gastic ulcer in rats or histamine induced duodenal ulcer in
guinea pig (Onwukaeme� and 12. FAMILY NAME: LAMIACEAE BOTANICAL NAME: Ocimum basilicum L. COMMON NAME: Sweet
basil and Harry Bail VERNACULAR NAME: Ebi
hihi Plant part used:
Leaves Folk use: Fresh leaves
are used for earache and for dullness of hearing. Preparation of remedy:
The leaves are squeezed and the juice is dropped into the ear. Dosage: One drop,
twice daily. LITERATURE ����� Leaves are used for respiratory
disorders (Okujagu et al., 2005). Leaves are also used against fever (Idu et
al., 2003). The whole plant is used as a remedy for gonorrhea, catarrh
conditions, cough, constipation, dysentery, ringworm, carminative, and
hypertension as blood tonic (Odugbemi and Akinsulire, 2006). Leaves have been
found to contain methylchaylcol, linalol, eugenol, thymol and xanthamicrol
(Okujagu et al., 2005). The whole plant contains essential oil,
methylcinnamate, and terpenes (Gill, 1992).Leaf juice is reported to be
slightly narcotic. The two carcinogens safrole and estragole (methyl
chavicol) have been reported in some oil (FAO, 1999). 13. FAMILY NAME: LAMIACEAE BOTANICAL NAME: Ocimum gratissimum L. ���� COMMON NAME: Tea bush VERNACULAR� NAME: Ebe amwonkho Plant part used:
Leaves. Folk use: Fresh leaves
are used to stop nasal bleeding. Preparation of remedy:
The leaves are squeezed and the juice from it is dropped into the nostrils. Dosage: One drop,
twice daily. LITERATURE ���� Leaves boiled, macerated or squeezed in
water are taken orally against typhoid fever (Igoli et al., 2005) leaf juice
is taken orally for coughs (Purkayastha et al., 2005). The leaves are� used against diabetes (Idu et al., 2003)
also used as a remedy for chest pain, diarrhea, catarrh, to prevent
miscarriage, stop nasal bleeding, relieve cold, headache and bronchitis (Idu
et al., 2007) convulsion hypertension coli as anti microbials, anthelmintics
and anti bacterials (Odugbemi and Akinsulire, 2006).Whole plant has been
shown to yield essential oil which is rich in eugonol and thymol (Sofowora,
1993). Leaves contain alkaloids, cellulose and saponin (Gill et al.,
1992).Whole plant: The volatile oil from the plant has been shown to posses
some antibacterial properties and the vapour of the oil was reported to kill
protozoa (Sofowora, 1993). 14. FAMILY NAME: LILIACEAE BOTANICAL NAME: Allium cepa L. COMMON NAME: Onion VERNACUALR NAME:� Alubarha Plant part used: Bulb Folk use: Bulb is used
for treating irritation of the eye, Roasted bulb in the form of poultice is
used for treatment of earache and it is used for brightening eye colour. It
is always recommended for people that have dull or reddish eye colour. Preparation of Remedy:
The bulb is broken and brought close to the eye to stop irritation, Onion
bulb is roasted, molded with the hand then brought close to the ear i.e.,
pasted close to the ear and onion bulb is eaten raw and always used for preparing
meals. Dosage: The broken
bulb is brought close to the eyes twice daily, and drop twice daily and onion
bulb is eaten daily. LITERATURE �� The bulb eaten raw is used as a remedy for
insomnia, loss of memory and diabetes (Adodo, 2004). It is also effective for
treating hay fever and catarrh and also to cure chest infection and
tuberculosis (Dawodu, 1993) Bulbs are used for treatment of hemorrhoids,
dysentery and asthma (Ahmed et al., 2005). Bulbs: A compression made of
roasted bulb is applied to inflamed or protruding piles for relief (Gill,
1992). �� Bulbs and leaves: Bulbs and leaves contain
riboflavin, sulphur compound-in-prophyl disulphur (Gill, 1992). It is rich in
iodine, sulphur, phosphorus, potassium, calcium (Dawodu, 1993). Bulbs contain
arginine histidine and isoleucine (Ahmed et al., 2005). ���� Aqueous extract of onion bulb was found
to be effective in inducing diuresis in albino rats. Its diuretic effect was
similar to that of frusemide, indicating it to be a potent diuretic. The
diuretic activity of the extract was associated with increase loss of Na+ and
K+ ions indicating that the diuretic agent might be acting on renal tubular
cells by interfering with ion transport. This observation thus confirms the
traditional claim of this transport (Aguyi and Obi, 1998). 15. FAMILY NAME: MALVACEAE BOTANICAL NAME: Sida acuta Burm. F. COMMON NAME: Broom
weed VERNACULAR� NAME: Aihenmmwin Plant part used:
Leaves Folk use: Leaves are
used to treat bleeding nose and for treating eye pain. Preparation of Remedy:
Leaves are squeezed and placed at the nostril and the stem is cut into small
pieces and soaked into water for some hours and later used as eye drop. Dosage: The squeezed
leaves with the juice are put at the nostril to stop nasal��� bleeding and it is dropped in the eye
twice daily. LITERATURE ����� The decoction of the leaves is given
for diarrhea during pregnancy. The crushed leaves are applied over wounds,
fresh cuts and bruises. Leaves are also used as emollient (Gill, 1992).
Decoction of leaves is used in the treatment of hysteria (Dolui et al.,
2004). Root bark: Powdered root bark mixed with sugar and milk is taken
orally in the treatment of gonorrhea (Dolui et al., 2004). The root and
leaves with black pepper are ground and applied locally in snake bite (Dolui
et al., 2004). Isolated Substances: The leaves contain saponin and mucilage
(Gill, 1992). Entire Plant: It contains the alkaloid � cryptolepine
(Gunatilata et al., 1980). Leaves stem and root contains saponin, tannin and
alkaloids (Okujagu et al., 2005).The root and stem have been reported to have
anti-microbial activity (Warrier et al., 1997).�� 16. FAMILY NAME: MALVACEAE BOTANICAL NAME: Gossypium hirsutum L. COMMON NAME: Cotton VERNACULAR� NAME: Ebe Oru Plant part used:
Flower (cotton) Folk use: Cotton wool
from cotton seed is used for treating nasal bleeding. Preparation of remedy:
No preparation. Dosage: Cotton wool is
placed at the nostril. LITERATURE ����� The juice of the leaf is used as eye
drop to relieve convulsions (Gill, 1992). The decoction of the leaf and
flower is given in dysentery (Gill, 1992). Leaves, roots, seeds are used for
convulsion, dysentery, asthma, antipyretic, hypertension, ulcers,
contraceptive, relieve abortifient, ease labour (Odugbemi and Akinsulire,
2006).Contains flavonolglycosides gossipin, gossypitrin, sitosterol (Gill,
1992).Gossypol found in the plant has been found to have toxic effect on
parasitic protozoa and viruses, which justify its use in traditional medicine
against scalp infection, dysentery, gonorrhea and as antiseptic (Sotelo et
al., 2005). 17. FAMILY NAME: MORACEAE BOTANICAL NAME: Musanga cecropioides R. COMMON NAME: Umbrella
tree VERNACULAR NAME:
Oghohen Plant part used: Root. Folk use: The root is
used to cure conjunctivitis (eye disease). Preparation of remedy:
The prop root is cut and the liquid from it is dropped into the eyes. Dosage: Liquid from
the prop root is dropped into the eyes thrice daily. LITERATURE ����� The decoction or infusion of the root
is given an anthelmintic especially for tape worms and dysentery (Gill,
1992). Root exudates, leaves, bark is used for treating tapeworm�s dysentery,
fever, anthelmintic cough (Odugbemi and Akinsulire, 2006). Stem bark contain
saponins, tannins, flavo with no traces of alkaloids, anthraquinones and
cyanogenetic glycosides (Ayinde, 2003). Presence of kalaic acid in the stem
bark and some other triterpenoid in the leaves, stem bark and the root
(Lontsi et al., 1989).The pharmacological effects of Musanga cecropioides on
rat thoracic aorta were examined in high K+ medium (55mM), Ca2+ 3mM) induced
vasoconstriction was inhibited by Musanga cecropioides in a concentration �
dependent manner. The tonic contractions elicited by KCL 55mM were relaxed by
Musanga and were more marked in 0.45mM Ca2+ than 1.8mM medium. Sodium �
induced responses were antagonized non competitively by Musanga Sodium
sustained contraction was relaxed. The relaxing effect of Musanga was not
antagonized by indomethacin or methylene blue. It is concluded that Musanga
relaxation of the rat aorta does not involve cyclo-oxygenase, nor cAMP
pathway, but unique unlike those of known classical vasodilators (Aziba,
2005).� �18.
FAMILY NAME: PALMAE BOTANICAL NAME: Cocos nucifera L.�������� COMMON NAME: Coconut������ VERNACULAR NAME:
Ivi-Oibo Plant Part Used: Root Folk Use: The root is
used as gargle for sore throat Preparation of Remedy:
Liquid preparation is obtained by boiling the root in water. Dosage: One cup of
decoction root is gargled in the throat twice daily. LITERATURE ����� The decoction of the root is used for
uterine diseases, gleet, bronchitis, liver ailments and dysentery. It is also
used as gargle for sore throat (Gill, 1992). The decoction of the root with
Xylopia aethiopica is used against fibroid (Adodo, 2004). A decoction of the
root is effective for aptha, mouth ulcers or ulcerative mouth lesions (Gomez,
2004). Kernel the ash of the kernel is used in treating burns (Soma and
Batra, 1997). Pericarp: The ash of the pericarp is applied to treat skin
disease (Jadeja et al., 2006). Fruits: the coconut water contained in the
fruit has moderating effect on cancer cells (Adodo, 2004). The coconut water
is an antidote. It is also used in arresting excessive and continuous purging
(Etukudo, 2003).The coconut flesh (Solid endosperm), Contain 13.0%
carbohydrates, 36.6.% water, 4.5% protein, 41.6% fat, 3.6 in fibre and 1.0%
minerals (Etukudo, 2003). 19. FAMILY NAME: PALMAE BOTANICAL NAME: COMMON NAME: Date Palm VERNACULAR� NAME: Ukuon Plant part use: Fruit. Folk use: The fruits
are used for relief of sore-throat. Preparation of remedy:
No preparation. Dosage: The fruit is
eaten twice daily. LITERATURE ����� The sap is demulcent, diuretic and
refrigerant in genito urinary disorder. (Gill, 1992). The fruit are also used
for relief of sore-throat, cough, asthma, fevers, gonorrhea and liver
complaints (Gill, 1992). The fruit contained fat, lipid and protein (Vayalil,
2002). A crude acetone extract of the pit of date palm was prepared and its
antiviral activity evaluated against lytic pseudomonas phage 20. FAMILY NAME: PANDANACEAE BOTANICAL NAME: Pandanus candelabrum P. Beauv. COMMON NAME: Screw
prine VERNACULAR� NAME: Ebo Plant part used:
Leaves. Folk use: The fresh
leaves are used against sore throat. Preparation of Remedy:
No preparation. Dosage: Fresh leaves
are chewed and the liquid content swallowed thrice daily. LITERATURE ����� The infusion of the bark is used in
curing diarrhea, dysentery and enteritis (Etukudo, 2003). 21. FAMILY NAME: RUTACEAE BOTANICAL NAME: Citrus aurantifolia (Christm) Swingle. COMMON NAME: Lime VERNACULAR� NAME: Animo ne giee Plant part used: Young
leaves. Folk use: Its use for sore
throat. Preparation of remedy: ���� Young fresh leaves are grinded and the
juice from it is mixed with gin and little quantity of alum depending on the
content of the squeezed juice. Dosage: Twice daily. LITERATURE ����� The leaves are chewed for bad breath
(Gill, 1992). The decoction of the leaves is used for fever, jaundice,
headache, eye-wash and gargle (Gill, 1992). The roots are eaten as
anthelmintic (Gill, 1992). Leaves, stem, root, fruit are used for fever,
jaundice, antimicrobials, abdominal ulcer, gonorrhea, carminative,
hypertensive recipe, flavouring agent, measles, cough, toothache,
anthlmintics, scurvy ( Odugbemi and Akinsulire, 2006). Graded dose of nature
cure bitters (NCB) made from Citrus aurantifolia were daily administered
(100, 200 and 400mg/kg p.o) to rats for 28days and the effect on body weight,
organ weight, clinical signs, gross pathology, haematology, histology and
serum biochemical parameters were evaluated. The relative weights of the
heart, liver and testes of treated rats were unaffected in contrast to a
significant increase in the relative weights of the lungs, kidneys and
spleen. The pack cell volume and haemoglobin concentration were significantly
reduced whereas total leucocyte counts and glucose levels were remarkably
increased (Aniagu et al., 2005). 22. FAMILY NAME: SOLANACEAE BOTANICAL NAME: Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. COMMON NAME: Tomato VERNACULAR� NAME: Ekhue Plant part use:
Leaves. Folk use: Leaves are
used to treat eyes with blood stain. Preparation of remedy:
Young fresh leaves are squeezed and the juice is dropped into the eyes. Dosage: One drop,
twice daily. LITERATURE .��� Alkaloid, tomatine, lycopene, carotene,
ascorbic acid and vitamin (Gill, 1992). A glycoside in which four CHO
residues are attached to the 3 � OH group of the aglycone tomatidine, occur
naturally in tomato. It also contain glycoalkaloid (Blankemeyer et al.,
1997).The mechanism of glycoalkaloids in animal and human cells may be
disruption of cell membranes and changes in ions fluxes and interstitial
currents of the membrane (Blankemeyer�
et al., 1997). ���� 23. FAMILY NAME: SOLANACEAE BOTANICAL NAME: Nicotiana tabacum L. COMMON NAME: Tobacco VERNACULAR� NAME: Itaba Plant part uses:
Leaves. Folk use: Leaves are
used for eye treatment (Irritation). Preparation of remedy:
Leaves are squeezed and juice from it is dropped into the eyes. Dosage: One drop
daily. LITERATURE ����� Leaves: Traditionally, the leaves are
dried, powdered and used for smoking, chewing dripping and snuffing. The
dried powdered leaves are mixed with potash and used for tooth pain. The
ointment made by simmering the leaves is used as a remedy for cold, ulcers
and painful tumor (Gill, 1992). The powdered leaves are used for curing
ringworm and to expel worms (Idu et al., 2005). The powdered leaf mixed with
honey is used for anemia, while the infusion of leaves and bulb of garlic is
used as a remedy for epilepsy and depression (Adodo, 2004). Leaves contain
Alkaloid � normcotine (Gill, 1992); saponin, tannin, nicotine and inulin
(Gill, 1992; Adodo, 2004). The leaf juice contains anabasine (Henry, 1949).
It has a potential use as a nervine depressant and as anti-convulsant from
high coumarine content. Nicotin from leaves in pure form and in high dosage
has been described as an active poison, but its pharmacology is different in
low dosage when taken orally. (Sofowora, 1993). The juice from the leaf has
been reported to have insecticidal activity (Henry, 1949). 24. FAMILY NAME: STERCULIACEAE BOTANICAL NAME: Cola nitida (Vent) Schoet and End. COMMON NAME: Kola VERNACULAR� NAME: Evbee Plant part used:
Leaves Folk use: Use leaves
for eye trouble such as night blindness. Preparation of Remedy:
Leaves are heated and the juice squeezed from it is dropped into the eyes. Dosage: The juice is
dropped into the eyes, one drop twice daily.�� LITERATURE ����� Leaves: fresh leaves are squeezed in
water and taken from insomnia (Adodo, 2004). The leaves are used to prevent
boils and used as a stimulant (Idu and Onyibe, 2007). Stem bark: The
decoction of the stem bark is used as an appetizer and as a stimulant. The
pulp of the bark is taken during female confinement (Gill, 1992). Stem bark,
seed and kernel are used for diarrhea, eye trouble as cardiac tonic and as
diuretic (Odugbemi and Akinsulire, 2006).The stem bark, seeds and kernels
have been found to contain alkaloid caffeine, kolatein, kolatein, starch,
lipids, lipase and oxydare enzyme (Gill, 1992).The methanol extract of root
bark for C. nitida was found to be potent against both Mycobacterium bovis
and strains of Mycobarterium vaccae (Adeniyi et al., 2004). Conclusions ������ ��������� Health
and diseases are measures of effectiveness with which human groups combining
and biological resources adapt to their environment. Every culture
irrespective of its simplicity and complexity has its own beliefs and
practices concerning diseases. The culture of a community determines its
health culture. Health problems and practices of any community are profoundly
influenced by interplay of complex social, economic and political factors.
Due to the belief in supernatural element and religion in matters concerning
health, the tribal are almost invariably found to repose faith in diviners or
traditional medicine men, sorcerers and shamans. However, tribes are not
averse in accepting western medicine, whenever available (Rao et al., 2006).
Presently, it is imperative for developing nations such as ����� In ����� The largest number of remedies was used
to treat eye problem followed by ear problem. Of all the plants part used,
the leaves were the most frequently used, followed by the root, stem,
flowers, bulb and seed. The administration of remedies is either internal or
external in the form of juice, decoction and infusion or as paste. Some of
the remedies were based on a single plant source while others were in
combination with other substances and plant species. Some remedies were
prepared using ingredients such as salt, alligator pepper and alcohol. ����� From the study it was observed that
more than one part of the plant species was used for different ailments
examples include leaves of S. acuta which is used for nasal bleeding while
the stem was for eye pain. It was also observed that in some of the plant
species, one part could be used for more than one ailment, such plants
include the bulb of A. cepa which is used to treat eye and ear ailment, stem
of E. hirta for the treatment of both eye and ear, leaves of S. monbin for
treating both short-sightedness and cataract and the leaves of N. laevis for
the treatment of both eye and ear ailment. ����� Furthermore, the study also revealed
that more than one plant species can be used for treating the same ailment.
Plants such as A. conyzoides and N. laevis are used for treatinig redness of
the eye and inflammation. A. cepa and R. vomitoria are used for treating irritation
of the eye, O. gratissmum, S. acuta and G. hirsutum are used for treating
nasal bleeding. C. nucifera and P. candelabrum are used for treating sore
throat. C. jagus and O. basilicum is used for treating irritation of the eye,
C. jagus and O. basilicum is used for treating ear ache. Although these
plants have the same usage, each plant has different methods of preparation
using different recipes and different dosage. ����� Finally, this study therefore, on 24
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uses.
Fig. 1. Number of species of plant in relation to eye
ailment.
Fig. 3. Number of species of plants in relation to
sore throat ailment.
Fig. 4. Number of species of plants in relation to
nose ailment. |
