Flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea. Volume 2, Part 2. Magnoliaceae to Flacourtiaceae
Abstract
Family members of #60. Canellaceae to #85 Euphorbiaceae, plus Amendments to Volume 3, Family #117 and #124 are described and illustrated.
... The seeds are rich oil sources with 40% oil contents. It is reported that oil extracted from Moringa seeds could be utilized for human consumption since it contains a high ratio of monounsaturated to saturated fatty acids, and might be an acceptable substitute for highly monounsaturated oils such as olive oil in diets[2,21,23,89]. Numerous researchers were reported the chemical composition of Moringa leaves and pods. ...
... This properties of seed address issues like global climate change and alternative energy from renewable sources.) is a tree 6-12 m tall having a diameter of 60cm (DBH) and a smooth bark having soft wood. It is a tree with trunk up to 60 cm in diameter at breast height; crown strongly branched; sometimes with several trunks, thick at base; bark white to pale grey or silvery, branches with leafy, young stems and leaves densely velvety pubescent[19,89]. The leave of Moringa stenopetala is up to 55 cm long, 2-3 pinnate with five pairs of pinnae and 3-9 leaflets elliptic to ovate, 3.3-6.3 ...
... In M. stenopetala tree inflorescence pubscent, dense manyflowered panicles up to 60 cm long, strong fragrant with cream flushed pink sepals, regular, hypogynous, yellow anthers and, white filaments and yellow-green petals up to 10 mm long. Maringa tree begins flowering after 8 to 12 months and continues year round base[19,23,76,89]. The seeds of M. stenopetala elliptical in shape and creamy coloured and contain 40% oil. ...
Moringa plants are among high value trees, belongs to Moringaceae family which consists of 13 species and they are highly distributed in Africa and southern Asia. It is multipurpose tree with medicinal, nutritional, industrial and socioeconomic values. Moringa leaf extracts have potential antihypertensive, antispasmodic, antiulcer, diuretic, hepatoprotective and cholesterol lowering activities. This means, the leaf contain bioactive compounds which perform certain beneficial physiological and biochemical functions in humans. These miraculous tree also have significant activities against cancer, tumor, bacteria and fungus as well as they have anti-leishmanial and anti-fertility activities. Therefore, Moringa tree has potential application in pharmaceutical industry for drugs development. Nowadays Moringa tree become an important food commodity in tropical world. Except the wood, all part of the tree are edible and these edible portions are exceptionally nutritious. Fresh and dried leaves can be cooked in soups or supplements of sauce and immature seeds and pods are often cooked and eaten as a fresh vegetable. The flowers can be cooked or dried and steeped as tea. All these parts of the trees compose vital chemicals and minerals promoting growth and health, therefore, it is used to combat moderate malnutrition in children and nursing mothers. Additionally, it is used as alternative animal feedstock especially for the emerging poultry industries in tropics. The tree is used as a hedge, fence and wind break. The seeds of Moringa is one of the best natural coagulants for water treatments which can substitute expensive synthetic coagulants in developing countries. As compared to conventional oilseeds for edible oil production, Moringa oilseeds are more advantageous in terms of oil content, costs and agronomic properties. Furthermore, oil derived from Moringa seeds can be used as potential sustainable feedstock for biodiesel production. In this review, human healthcare through traditional medicine as well as multiple uses of Moringa trees are discussed. The socioeconomic values of M. stenopetala tree in southern Ethiopia is delineated. Finally, future prospects are proposed.
... Medicinal plant species which were not identified in the field were pressed and dried for voucher specimen to be identified in Ethiopian national Herbarium in Addis Ababa University or by comparing published volumes of flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea edited by [18,19], and [20]. Some of these medicinal plants' images were collected for further identification ( Figure 2). ...
... ICF for the given diseases category.Key : Nur: is the number of use reports from informants for a particular plant-usage category, Ns: is the number of species used by informants, and ICF: informant consensus factor.18 Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine in proving the efficacious of plant species. ...
A variety of traditional medicinal plants has been widely used by different indigenous people in Ethiopia for many human and livestock ailments. This study was conducted to investigate and document the use of medicinal plants in the Sedie Muja district. Sixteen key informants were selected purposively and 72 informants were selected randomly from 5 wards. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires, group discussions, and field observation. Besides descriptive statistics, the data were analyzed using some ethnobotanical analysis tools like preference ranking, paired comparison, direct matrix ranking, informant consensus factor, and fidelity level index. A total of 89 species of medicinal plants were identified and collected with 82 genera and 44 families. Out of these, 60 species (67.42%) were used against human ailments, 10 species (11.24%) were used against livestock ailments, and 19 species (21.34%) were used to treat both human and livestock ailments. Herbs constituted the largest growth habit (40 species) followed by shrubs (33 species). The most frequently used plant part was leaves (39.9%), followed by roots (23.83%), and the condition of preparation was fresh plant materials (70.98%). The most widely used method of preparation was crushing (22.8%) followed by crushing-squeezing (11.39%). The most common route of administration was oral (49.74%) followed by dermal (30.05%). Ruta chalepensis was the predominant medicinal plant cited by most of the informants 62 (70%) followed by Ocimum lamiifolium 59 (67%). The disease category with the highest ICF value (0.90) was the evil eye. There was a high preference for Euphorbia abyssinica to treat stomachache. Ocimum lamiifolium was the most preferred species for the treatment of febrile illness. Anthropogenic factors are the major threats to medicinal plants. In general, the study area is rich in medicinal plants that have a significant role in the management of various human and livestock diseases.
... However, a caterpillar of Noorda trimaculalis is a known pest for M. stenopetala. Mark and Edward et al. [1,7] stated that the taxonomic position of the family is not clear. It has some features similar to those of Brassicaceae and Capparidaceae but the seed structure does not agree with either of the above families. ...
... In Ethiopia, the tree adapts many ecological regions, including rocky areas along rivers, dry scrubland, and Acacia-Commiphora woodland. It is cultivated in terraced fields, gardens, and small towns [7,9]. M. stenopetala is dominantly found in well-drained soils of southern Ethiopia with an altitudinal range of about 1100-1600 m.a.s.l (meters above sea level) with 500-1400 mm and 24-30°C annual rainfall and temperature, respectively [10]. ...
Background
Moringa stenopetala belongs to the flowering family Moringaceae and genus Moringa. It is often referred to as the East African Moringa tree because it is native only to southern Ethiopia and northern Kenya. The expansion of its cultivation and utilization throughout the world especially in Africa is becoming important. For such expansion, the existing propagation method is limiting, so it needs a good propagation system to supply enough planting material with a uniform genotype. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to optimize an in vitro shoot multiplication protocol for M. stenopetala by using shoot tip as explants.
Results
Shoots were sterilized and cultured on Muraghige and Skoog (MS) medium for in vitro shoot initiation. For multiple shoot induction, the explants were cultured on MS medium supplemented with different concentrations of kinetin (0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5 mg/L) with Indole-3- butyric acid (IBA) or α -naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) (0.01, 0.1, 0.5 mg/L) and maintained at 25 ± 2 °C for four weeks. Rooting was achieved by culturing well developed shoots in half-strength MS medium containing IBA (0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 mg/L), NAA (0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 mg/L), and 0.5 mg/L IBA with NAA (0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 mg/L). Statistical analysis revealed that there was a significant difference among all treatments applied in both shoot multiplication and rooting experiments. The maximum number of shoots per explant (3.43 ± 1.41) and 7.97 ± 4.18 leaves per explant were obtained on MS medium containing 0.5 mg/L kinetin with 0.01 mg/LNAA. The highest mean number of roots per shoot (1.63 ± 1.03) and mean root length (0.87 ± 1.22 cm) were obtained on MS medium containing 1.0 mg/LNAA and 0.1 mg/LIBA alone respectively. After acclimatization, 76% of plants were survived in the greenhouse.
Conclusion
In general, using NAA with kinetin for shoot multiplication was effective than kinetin with IBA. On the other hand, the application of 1.0 mg/L NAA alone and 1.0 mg/L NAA with 0.5 mg/L IBA were more effective for root induction.
... Though it grows in many other parts of the tropics, it is not as widely known as its close relative, Moringa oleifera but often considered generally more desirable than M. oleifera. [7,21] stated that the taxonomic position of the family is not clear. It has some features similar to those of Brassicaceae and Capparidaceae but the seed structure does not agree with either of the above families. ...
... The habitat where the genus occur in Ethiopia includes: rocky areas along rivers, dry scrub land, Acacia-Commiphora woodland, water courses with some evergreens, open Acacia-Commiphora bush land on gray alluvial soil and in cultivation around village. It is cultivated in terr aced elds, gardens and small towns [7,11]. It is dominantly found in well-drained soils of southern Ethiopia at an altitudinal range of about 1100-1600 m.a.s.l. with annual rainfall ranging from 500-1400 mm and annual temperature ranging from 24-30 °C [34]. ...
Background: Moringa stenopetala is belongs to flowering family Moringaceae and genus Moringa. It is often referred to as the East African Moringa tree because it is native only to southern Ethiopia and northern Kenya. The expansion of its cultivation and utilization throughout the world especially in Africa is becoming important. For such expansion, the existing propagation method is limiting, so it needs good propagation system to supply enough planting material with uniform genotype. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to optimize an in vitro shoot multiplication protocol for M. stenopetala by using shoot tip as explants.
Results: Shoots were sterilized and cultured on Muraghige and Skoog (MS) medium for in vitro shoot initiation. For multiple shoot induction, the explants were cultured on MS medium supplemented with different concentrations of kinetin (0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5 mg/l) along with Indole-3- butyric acid (IBA) or α -naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) (0.01, 0.1, 0.5mg/l) and maintained at 25 ± 2°C for four weeks. Rooting was achieved by culturing well developed shoots in half strength MS medium containing IBA (0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 mg/l), NAA (0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 mg/l) and 0.5 mg/l IBA in combination with NAA (0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 mg/l). Statistical analysis revealed that there was significant difference among all treatments applied in both shoot multiplication and rooting experiments. Maximum number of shoots per explant (3.43±1.41) and 7.97±4.18 leaves per explant were obtained on MS medium containing 0.5 mg/l kinetin in combination with 0.01mg/l NAA. The highest mean number of roots per shoot (1.63±1.03) and mean root length (0.87±1.22 cm) were obtained on MS medium containing 1.0 mg/l NAA and 0.1 mg/l IBA alone respectively. After acclimatization, 76% plants survived in greenhouse.
Conclusions: In general, using NAA along with kinetin for shoot multiplication was better than kinetin along with IBA and application of NAA alone at concentration of 1.0 mg/l and 1.0 mg/l NAA along with 0.5 mg/l IBA were more effective for root induction.
... Specimens were dried, numbered, labelled, pressed, identified and deposited at the National Herbarium (ETH) in Addis Ababa University. Identification of specimens was performed both in the field and later at ETH using taxonomic keys and floras [54][55][56][57][58][59][60][61] and by comparison with authenticated herbarium specimens. ...
... Best-representation of ethnoveterinary species from families Asteraceae, Asclepiadaceae, Euphorbiaceae and Ranunculaceae could be related to their wider distribution and use in Ethiopia/the flora area [55,56,58,61]. These families were also reported to have the largest share of ethnomedicinal species in other ethnobotanical inventories [42,43,63,70]. ...
Traditional herbal preparations for addressing veterinary problems have been applied in Ankober District, Ethiopia, for generations. However, the millennia-old ethnoveterinary knowledge of the community, and the plants are subjected to loss without being scientifically documented due to anthropogenic and environmental threats. Hence, this study aims at providing a comprehensive documentation on ethnoveterinary plant knowledge of the people in order to preserve the fast-eroding knowledge and resources of the area.
Methods: Semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, participant observation and walk-in-the-woods methods were used to gather ethnoveterinary data. Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) and Fidelity level (FL) values were calculated using quantitative approaches so as to check the level of informants' agreement on plant use and healing potential of ethnoveterinary medicinal plant species, respectively. Indigenous knowledge on use of medicinal plants for ethnoveterinary purposes among different informant groups was compared using One-way ANOVA and t-tests.
Results: A total of 51 plant species representing 50 genera and 35 botanical families used in the treatment of 33 different ailments were identified. Medicinal plant species belonging to families Asteraceae, Asclepiadaceae, Euphorbiaceae and Ranunculaceae were reported to be of frequent use in the local ethnoveterinary medical system. Roots (65%, 33 species) were most often utilized for remedy preparation. Highest ICF values were recorded for gastro-intestinal (0.71) ailments depicting best agreement on knowledge of medicinal plants used to treat aliments in this category. Embelia schimperi Vatke showed highest fidelity level value (90%) to treat gastro-intestinal diseases showing conformity of knowledge on this species' healing potential. Significant difference (P
... Next, the identification of the plant was done within Werabe University in the Department of Biology with a botanical specialist. Furthermore, the flora of Eritrea and Ethiopia were followed to identify the collected plant specimen by using its taxonomic keys (Edwards et al., 1995, Edwards et al., 2000, and Hedberg et al., 2006. ...
Purpose: Despite the wide use of traditional medicinal plants to treat animal and human ailments in Siltie zone Ethiopia, the detailed ethno-veterinary knowledge was unexplored. The aim of the study was to investigate the ethno-veterinary medicinal plants used in the selected districts of Siltie zone, Southern Ethiopia. Methodology: To identify and collect data related to medicinal plants and their traditional use, the pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaire-based survey was followed. The elderly willing farmers and experienced traditional healers were involved by using snowball sampling procedures from purposively selected study districts. Subsequently, the plant specimens were caught and their leaves were collected, pressed and the identification of the plant was done within Werabe University in the Department of Biology. Findings: In the survey, 39 plant species and 35 genera from 26 families were identified and documented for treating 30 types of domestic animal diseases. The majority of plant species were grouped under the family Solanaceae (10.3%). The most frequently used plant part for remedy preparation was leaf 48 (58.3%), followed by root 16 (19.1%), seed 12 (14.3%) fruit 4 (4.7%), bark 2 (2.4%) and stem 1 (1.2%). It was found that most of the remedial preparation was delivered through the oral route (63.1%), followed by nasal (25%), topical (10.7%) and another route (1%). The highest fidelity (FL) value was recorded for Brassica carinata (A.) Br. (100%) and Schinus molle L. (100%), while the lowest was Phytolacca dodecandra L'Her (50%). The reproductive disease ailment category showed the highest (0.75) Informant Consensus Factor (ICF), while the ICF value of (0) was observed for external parasitic infestation and wound. In direct matrix ranking computed, Vernonia amygdalina Del. is the largest multipurpose use plant. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The present study showed a rich knowledge of traditional medicinal plant use for animal disease treatment in the study districts and necessitated their conservation for the future generations. The findings indicated a need for further investigation to determine active medicinal agent, toxicity, and efficacy of medicinal plant that the traditional healers in the study districts used.
... Next, the identification of the plant was done within Werabe University in the Department of Biology with a botanical specialist. Furthermore, the flora of Eritrea and Ethiopia were followed to identify the collected plant specimen by using its taxonomic keys (Edwards et al., 1995, Edwards et al., 2000, and Hedberg et al., 2006. ...
Purpose: Despite the wide use of traditional medicinal plants to treat animal and human ailments in Siltie zone Ethiopia, the detailed ethno-veterinary knowledge was unexplored. The aim of the study was to investigate the ethno-veterinary medicinal plants used in the selected districts of Siltie zone, Southern Ethiopia. Methodology: To identify and collect data related to medicinal plants and their traditional use, the pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaire-based survey was followed. The elderly willing farmers and experienced traditional healers were involved by using snowball sampling procedures from purposively selected study districts. Subsequently, the plant specimens were caught and their leaves were collected, pressed and the identification of the plant was done within Werabe University in the Department of Biology. Findings: In the survey, 39 plant species and 35 genera from 26 families were identified and documented for treating 30 types of domestic animal diseases. The majority of plant species were grouped under the family Solanaceae (10.3%). The most frequently used plant part for remedy preparation was leaf 48 (58.3%), followed by root 16 (19.1%), seed 12 (14.3%) fruit 4 (4.7%), bark 2 (2.4%) and stem 1 (1.2%). It was found that most of the remedial preparation was delivered through the oral route (63.1%), followed by nasal (25%), topical (10.7%) and another route (1%). The highest fidelity (FL) value was recorded for Brassica carinata (A.) Br. (100%) and Schinus molle L. (100%), while the lowest was Phytolacca dodecandra L'Her (50%). The reproductive disease ailment category showed the highest (0.75) Informant Consensus Factor (ICF), while the ICF value of (0) was observed for external parasitic infestation and wound. In direct matrix ranking computed, Vernonia amygdalina Del. is the largest multipurpose use plant. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The present study showed a rich knowledge of traditional medicinal plant use for animal disease treatment in the study districts and necessitated their conservation for the future generations. The findings indicated a need for further investigation to determine active medicinal agent, toxicity, and efficacy of medicinal plant that the traditional healers in the study districts used.
... Next, the identification of the plant was done within Werabe University in the Department of Biology with a botanical specialist. Furthermore, the flora of Eritrea and Ethiopia were followed to identify the collected plant specimen by using its taxonomic keys (Edwards et al., 1995, Edwards et al., 2000, and Hedberg et al., 2006. ...
Despite the wide use of traditional medicinal plants to treat animal and human ailments in Siltie zone Ethiopia, the detailed ethno-veterinary knowledge was unexplored.
Aim of the Study: To investigate the ethno-veterinary medicinal plants used in the selected districts of Siltie zone, Southern Ethiopia.
Materials and method: To identify and collect data related to medicinal plants and their traditional use, the pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaire-based survey was followed. The elderly willing farmers and experienced traditional healers were involved by using snowball sampling procedures from purposively selected study districts. Subsequently, the plant specimens were caught and their leaves were collected, pressed and the identification of the plant was done within Werabe University in the Department of Biology.
Results: In the survey, 39 plant species and 35 genera from 26 families were identified and documented for treating 30 types of domestic animal diseases. The majority of plant species were grouped under the family Solanaceae (10.3%). The most frequently used plant part for remedy preparation was leaf 48 (58.3%), followed by root 16 (19.1%), seed 12 (14.3%) fruit 4 (4.7%), bark 2 (2.4%) and stem 1 (1.2%). It was found that most of the remedial preparation was delivered through the oral route (63.1%), followed by nasal (25%), topical (10.7%) and another route (1%). The highest fidelity (FL) value was recorded for Brassica carinata (A.) Br. (100%) and Schinus molle L. (100%), while the lowest was Phytolacca dodecandra L’Her (50%). The reproductive disease ailment category showed the highest (0.75) Informant Consensus Factor (ICF), while the ICF value of (0) was observed for external parasitic infestation and wound. In direct matrix ranking computed, Vernonia amygdalina Del. is the largest multipurpose use plant.
Conclusion: The present study showed a rich knowledge of traditional medicinal plant use for animal disease treatment in the study districts and necessitated their conservation for the future generations. The findings indicated a need for further investigation to determine active medicinal agent, toxicity, and efficacy of medicinal plant that the traditional healers in the study districts used.
... The collected species were identified and named according to the available literature (Edwards & Hedberg, 1995;Wood, 1997;Thulin, 1999;Boulos, 2000;Bayer & Kubitzki, 2003) and were updated according to POWO (2023). The morphological characters studied included stems, leaves, petioles, inflorescences, floral parts, and fruits, and these were investigated using a stereo microscope (Olympus VE-3, with eyepiece G20XT). ...
This study presents a taxonomic revision of the genus Corchorus L. (tribe Grewieae, subfamily Grewioideae, Malvaceae s.l.) in Toor Al-Baha district, Lahij Governorate, Yemen. The revision is based on about 33 specimens collected from different locations and habitats in the study area. Four species of Corchorus were recognized and identified; three were native to the study area (C. depressus, C. tridens, C. trilocularis), and one was cultivated for its edible leaves (C. olitorius). The morphological characteristics of the vegetative and reproductive parts, such as leaf shape and size, stipule type, flower number and length of the pedicel, and seed shape, colour, and length, were proved to have high taxonomic significance in distinguishing between the four species belonging to the genus Corchorus. An artificial key to the four species, full species descriptions, photos, updated names, synonymy, local names, and distribution maps are provided to facilitate the identification and recognition of these species.
... Wild edible plant specimens were collected for identifcation during guided feld walks. Specimen identifcation was made in the University of Gondar, Ethiopia, by using published volumes of the Flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea [31][32][33][34][35][36][37][38]. Qualitative information about indigenous knowledge transfer system, current status, threats, and conservation practices of the wild edible plant species were collected using focus group discussion with selected key informants. ...
Wild edible plants are vital for the survival and sustainable livelihoods of rural people of Ethiopia. Thus, this study compiled wild edible plants, their use, threats, and management practices in Metema District, northwestern Ethiopia. Eight sample kebeles were selected purposively based on vegetation coverage and key informants availability. A total of 128 informants were selected using purposive and random sampling techniques. Data were collected using individual interviews, guided field walks, focus group discussion, and market surveys through semistructured questionnaires. Ethnobotanical data collected from the informants were summarized by descriptive statistics, and further verified by using informant consensus, preference, and direct matrix ranking. Knowledge difference among age and sex groups was evaluated by independent sample t-test. A total of 44 wild edible plant species distributed in 34 genera and 25 families were documented. Most (88.64%) of these plant species were found in the wild habitat. Fabaceae and Moraceae accounted for higher proportion of edible plant species. Trees were the dominant habit (59.09%). From the total recorded wild edible plants, 33 (75%) species were used as supplementary foods and 11 (25%) species were used during famine. Fruits were the most edible plant parts (66%) and raw fresh forms were the main conditions of consumption (81.8%). Diospyros abyssinica was the most cited (60.94%) and first ranked. Some edible species such as Adansonia digitata and Balanites aegyptiaca were marketable. Ziziphus spina-christi was found the most multipurpose wild edible plant species. Most of the species (33, 75%) were used as animal fodder followed with traditional medicines (25, 56.82%) and firewood (20, 45.45%). Tamarindus indica, Moringa stenopetala, Balanites aegyptiaca, Grewia ferruginea, Corchorus olitorius, and Cordia africana had nutraceutical values. Significant knowledge differences (P
... Wild edible plant specimens were collected for identifcation during guided feld walks. Specimen identifcation was made in the University of Gondar, Ethiopia, by using published volumes of the Flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea [31][32][33][34][35][36][37][38]. Qualitative information about indigenous knowledge transfer system, current status, threats, and conservation practices of the wild edible plant species were collected using focus group discussion with selected key informants. ...
... Individuals were then grouped into height classes < 1.5 m (seedlings), 1.5-3 m (saplings), and > 3 m (trees) and diameter classes of < 2.5 cm (seedlings), 2.5-5 cm (saplings) and > 5 cm (trees). In each plot, all woody species were identified based on published floras for Ethiopia (Edwards et al. 1969(Edwards et al. , 1995(Edwards et al. , 1997Hedberg and Edwards 1989;Hedberg et al. 2003Hedberg et al. , 2006 and recorded. ...
Abstract In Ethiopia, among many restoration efforts to
reverse deforestation and land degradation, area exclosure
is one of the most common practices to restore secondary
forests with assisted natural regeneration. The present study
in the Sekota district, northeastern Amhara region, Ethiopia
evaluated the influence of areas exclosures on woody species
diversity, population structure and regeneration status. A
total of 36 and 27 quadrats, each 20 m × 20 m, were used to
collect data in exclosures and non-exclosures, respectively.
Within quadrats, four 5 m × 5 m and 2 m × 2 m quadrats
at the corners were used to sample saplings and seedlings,
respectively. In exclosures, 35 woody species representing
21 families and 29 genera were recorded; 19 woody species
representing 13 families and 13 genera were recorded in the non-exclosure. Acacia etbaica was the most dominant species in the two land-uses. The Shannon diversity index was
1.77 ± 0.46 in exclosures and 1.39± 0.46 in non-exclosures.
Shannon and Simpson diversity indices showed a significant difference between the two land-uses (p < 0.01). The
regeneration status of all wood species in exclosures was
good, only fair in non-exclosures. Area exclosures have thus
played a great role in the restoration of degraded lands by
improving vegetation diversity and regeneration status. The
least dominant woody species should be maintained through
active restoration. Continuous follow-up, maintenance of
soil water conservation structure to improve soil fertility
will further help enhance the woody species diversity and
abundance.
... For some herbaceous which were difcult to identify by researchers, we asked the owners to give local names. Ten we identifed by crosschecking the name and the description in fora of Ethiopia and Eritrea, volume two to volume seven, Eritrea [33,34]. ...
Urban forests have an important role in biodiversity conservation, environmental improvement, and ecosystem services including climate change mitigation enhancement. The objectives of the current study were to: assess plant types and management strategies of the owners; woody species’ composition, structure, and diversity; and estimate aboveground biomass of trees and associated carbon stock in private residential green infrastructure (PRGI) at Dilla town. This study was conducted at three kebeles, the lowest administrative unit in Ethiopia. Ninety-four households were randomly selected from a proportional sample size for each kebele. A complete inventory of woody species was done after measuring the area occupied by plants at each household. At plot level, the aboveground biomass of sampled trees was calculated by using an allometric biomass equation developed for agroforestry species. Diversity was described by using different indices The free software EstimateS 9.1.0 was used to generate data for the construction of sample-based rarefaction curves and SPSS version 20 for descriptive statistics. Based on plant types and arrangement, the households manage their PRGI in 15 categories on area size, ranging from 10 m2 to 1229 m2, with an average holding size of 207.5 m2. A total of 66 plant species belonging to 45 families were identified. Overall, a total of 1220 stem ha−1 contributed to an aboveground carbon stock of 64.35 ton ha−1 of which 50.4% is from fruit trees and the rest from timber trees. The results suggest that PRGIs can serve as reservoirs of non-native and native plant species, including five native tree species currently facing conservation concerns.
... e voucher specimens for woody species encountered were collected and brought to the National Herbarium, Addis Ababa University, for taxonomic identification. e identification was done using the Flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea and by comparing the specimens with the authentic specimens in the National Herbarium [62][63][64][65][66]. ...
Moist tropical forests have a significant role in provisioning and regulating ecosystem services. However, these forests are under threat of deforestation and forest degradation. In Ethiopia, the moist evergreen Afromontane forests have the potential for carbon storage and support a high diversity of plant species. However, it is under severe threat of deforestation and degradation.This investigation was conducted to obtain adequate information on the carbon stock potential of the moist Afromontane forest of southwestern Ethiopia. A comparison of carbon stock was conducted between disturbed and undisturbed forests. A systematic sampling design was applied for recording woody species and soil data. A total of 100 main plots of 400 m2 were laid to record trees and shrubs with a diameter at breast height (DBH) ≥ 5 cm. The soil data were collected from 1 m2 subplots established at the four corners and the center of each main plot. The DBH and height were measured to calculate the aboveground carbon of trees and shrubs with DBH ≥ 5 cm. A total of 68 tree and shrub species belonging to 59 genera and 33 families were recorded. The mean carbon stock density was 203.80 ± 12.38 t·ha–1 (aboveground carbon stock) and 40.76 ± 2.47 t·ha–1 (belowground carbon stock). The highest proportion of aboveground carbon (t·ha–1) (42.34%) was contributed by a few tree individuals with DBH > 70 cm. The soil organic carbon stock (SOCS) (t·ha–1) for the depth of 0–30 cm is ranging from 58.97 to 198.33 across plots; the mean is 117.16 ± 3.15. The carbon stored in the moist Afromontane forest indicates its huge potential for climate change mitigation. Therefore, for the enhancement of forest biodiversity and carbon sequestration effective conservation measure and sound management approach is essential.
... The pressed and collected specimens were identified by comparing them with already identified specimens in a mini herbarium of Madda Walabu University. Various volumes of the Flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea (Bekele-Tesemma 2007;Edwards et al. 1995;1997;2000;Fichtl and Admasu 1994;Edwards 1989, 1995;Hedberg et al. 2004Hedberg et al. , 2006 were also used in the identification of the collected specimens. ...
Assefa B, Megersa M, Jima TT. 2021. Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants used to treat human diseases in Gura Damole District, Bale Zone, Southeast Ethiopia. Asian J Ethnobiol 4: 42-52. Many countries, including Ethiopia, use medicinal plants for their primary health care system. Plants have been used as a source of medicine to treat human diseases in Ethiopia. This study aimed to document medicinal plants to treat various human diseases in southeast Ethiopia's, the Gura Damole District of Oromia Regional State. Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants was carried out from August 05 to November 06, 2019. A total of 90 informants were selected to collect ethnobotanical information from 6 kebeles. Ethnobotanical data were collected using semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions with informants, and field observation. Various ethnobotanical ranking indices were used to analyze the importance of some plant species. A total of 30 medicinal plants belonging to 21 families were identified. These medicinal plants comprised shrubs (36.6%), trees (26.6%), herbs (23.3%), and lianas (13.3%). The plant families with the highest medicinal plants in the study area used for various diseases treatment were Asteraceae and Solanaceae (3 species each). Leaves (46.7%) were the dominant plant part used to prepare remedies, followed by roots (36.7%). Powdering (50%) and oral route of administration (59%) were commonly mentioned methods of preparation and administration, respectively. Carissa spinarum was the most preferred medicinal plant to treat evil eyes and is also ranked highest as the preferable medicinal plant for various purposes. Although the current study revealed the existence of indigenous knowledge of medicinal plants to treat human diseases, agricultural expansion became the primary threat to medicinal plants. Hence, different conservation methods should be applied to conserve those mostly preferred and frequently used medicinal plants for various purposes.
... The inadequate funding at the national level for the prevention and control of animal diseases adds to the burden, especially among pastoralists who live in the remote arid and semi-arid lowland parts of the country; and treatment cost. The studies of Edwards et al. [9] and Yirga et al. ...
Background: Ethnoveterinary medicine is frequently used for treating various livestock diseases by many different ethnic groups in Ethiopia. To this end, the indigenous knowledge of medicinal plants and non-plant remedies has not been systematically documented and studied in the Dawuro zone. Therefore, a community based cross-sectional study design was conducted from November, 2017 to September, 2018 in order to identify and document medicinal plants and non-plant remedies used in animal health management.
Methods: Relevant information on ethnoveterinary practice was collected from purposively selected 115 key informants using semi-structured questionnaire, focus group discussions, observations and field guided walk methods. The obtained data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, quantitative ethnobotanical methods and t-test and significantly test was set to p< 0.05. The plants claimed having medicinal value were collected and botanically identified.
Results: The study revealed 103 plant species belong to 47 families and 11 non-plant remedies used to manage 36 different livestock ailments. Family Asteraceae accounted for 11.5% of the total species recorded. The majority of plants (56.2%) were harvested from wild habitat. Herbs (33.8%) were the main source of medicine followed by tree (30.6%). Leaves (43.6%) and roots (27.5%) were the main plant parts used while pounding was the major form in remedy preparation. The highest Informant Consensus Factor (0.83) value was scored for the disease of the reproductive system. Significant difference (P<0.05) was observed in average number of therapeutic plants reported by illiterate higher than literate groups. Cyphostemma flavicans (Baker) Desc. and Pentas schimperi were showed the highest Fidelity Level (100%) to treat disease of the reproductive system, and emaciation and bone fracture as plant materials whereas Bear faeces, sharp hot iron or wire/knife, and common salt were non-plant remedies used in the study area.
Conclusion: The study revealed that the local community of in the study areas was used with a rich of indigenous knowledge of ethnoveterinary medicinal plants. The loss of valuable medicinal plant resources of the area calls for urgent and coordinated actions to develop conservation strategies.
... The sampling approach was to examine species composition and to compare species richness and diversity estimates between O. ficus-indica invaded and uninvaded plots. Plant species were identified following Hedberg and Edwards (1989); Edwards et al. (1995); Edwards et al. (1997); Edwards et al. (2000); Hedberg et al. (2003); Hedberg et al. (2006); Mesfin (2004) and Bein et al. (1996). For accurate identification of some species, specimens were taken to the Herbarium of the Eritrea Institute of Technology. ...
Invasion by exotic species is recognized as one of the major threats to biodiversity. The effects of invasion by Opuntia ficus-indica (Cactaceae) on the species diversity, richness and composition of invaded communities were studied at three sites in the highlands of Eritrea, East Africa. This paper investigates whether the presence of O. ficus-indica causes a negative effect on the native biodiversity in a region rarely studied so far. The vegetation in invaded and uninvaded plots with similar habitat conditions was sampled and differences in the species composition, diversity and richness were compared between the plots. The overall plant species composition differed significantly with invasion by O. ficus-indica. The invasion by O. ficus-indica also led to a significant homogenization of community compositions. The species richness and Shannon diversity index did not differ significantly between the invaded and uninvaded plots. Nevertheless, we still detected species with significantly lower occurrence in the invaded plots (Psiadia punctulata), but also species which preferred invaded plots (Plectranthus hadiensis). We conclude that O. ficus-indica exerts a negligible effect on the species diversity and richness but that it affects species composition and that there are species which suffer due to its presence. Due to the continuous pressure of the invasion by O. ficus-indica on the species composition and dry climates, further homogenization in the native species diversity is to be expected in the future for the highlands of Eritrea.
... Wolaita and Gamo Gofa are among the main growing zones of Moringa. South Omo, Gamo Gofa, Kaffa, Sheka, Bench Maji, Wolaita, Dawro, Bale, Borena, Sidama, Burji, Amaro, Konso and Darashe are the main Moringa cultivating zones and special districts of Ethiopia (Edwards et al., 2000). Wolaita and Gofa zones are two neighboring zones among more than 13 zones in the Southern Nations Nationalities and Peoples Regional (SNNPR) State of Ethiopia where Moringa is widely produced. ...
The policies in Ethiopia to advance the commercial orientation of farmers need identification of challenges at farmer level and exhaustive actions to shift the farm sector. Further activities have to be done to change the country’s present subsistence-oriented farm production system of different crops. The research has aimed at investigating factors determining the Moringa commercialization in southern Ethiopia. The cross-sectional survey method was used to identify 232 Moringa producing smallholder farmers from Wolaita and Gamo zones. Heckman’s two-step sample selection model is adopted to find factors determining the probability of Moringa market participation and the intensity of participation. The study result revealed that the likelihood of the Moringa output market participation is influenced by the variables such as location, access to irrigation, and distance to market. On the other hand family size, per capita income, frequency of extension contact, access to irrigation, access to credit, and distance to market are among significantly influencing factors of the extent of Moringa marketing. Therefore, policy agents should mainly consider these variables on any development activities to improve Moringa marketing. Furthermore, it requires improving extension services and offering immediate practical training on techniques of market-oriented and value-added Moringa production and marketing systems.
... In other words, only a single sample of each browse species was collected and only from a single tree/shrub. Nomenclature of plant species follows published volumes of Flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea (Hedberg and Edwards 1995;Edwards et al. 1995Edwards et al. , 1997 and was updated according to the taxonomy of the Genetic Resources Information Network GRIN (npgsweb.ars-grin.gov/ gringlobal/taxon/taxonomysearch.aspx). ...
... Wolaita and Gamo Gofa zones are two adjacent zones among the 13 zones in the Southern Nations Nationalities and Peoples Regional (SNNPR) state of Ethiopia where Moringa is extensively produced (Edwards, Tadesse, Demissew and Hedberg, 2000). Moringa Stenopetalla grows in these areas at a wide range of altitudes that range from 500 to 1800m above sea level (a.s.l). ...
Moringa has been becoming among vastly growing and trading commodities in different parts of Ethiopia for its multiple benefits. However, empirical researches analyzing its productivity at smallholder farmer level were missing. This study aimed to fill the existing gap with a cross-sectional survey study on sampled 117 Moringa producer farmers from southern Ethiopia. The Stochastic Frontier Model was used to estimate the level and factors determining the technical efficiency of Moringa production. The collected data fitted Cobb-Douglas production function with inputs, labor and the numbers of trees positively and significantly determined the output of Moringa. An estimated level of efficiency shows farmers have the possibility to increase Moringa output by 47.81% with existing inputs and technology. The land, off-farm activities, access to road, credit, and irrigation were significant factors affecting the technical efficiency of Moringa. It requires policies and development actions to perform on mechanisms to advance the production of Moringa. Hence, any development direction to enhance Moringa production should consider households with limited access to land and irrigation. Furthermore, the development of road infrastructure is required to increase agricultural productivity. In sum, modern credit institutions, as well as facilities, found essential to improve the livelihood of Moringa producers in the area.
... Wolaita and Gamo Gofa zones are two adjacent zones among the 13 zones in the Southern Nations Nationalities and Peoples Regional (SNNPR) state of Ethiopia where Moringa is extensively produced (Edwards, Tadesse, Demissew and Hedberg, 2000). Moringa Stenopetalla grows in these areas at a wide range of altitudes that range from 500 to 1800m above sea level (a.s.l). ...
Moringa has been becoming among vastly growing and trading commodities in different parts of Ethiopia for its multiple benefits. However, empirical researches analyzing its productivity at smallholder farmer level were missing. This study aimed to fill the existing gap with a cross-sectional survey study on sampled 117 Moringa producer farmers from southern Ethiopia. The Stochastic Frontier Model was used to estimate the level and factors determining the technical efficiency of Moringa production. The collected data fitted Cobb-Douglas production function with inputs, labor and the numbers of trees positively and significantly determined the output of Moringa. An estimated level of efficiency shows farmers have the possibility to increase Moringa output by 47.81% with existing inputs and technology. The land, off-farm activities, access to road, credit, and irrigation were significant factors affecting the technical efficiency of Moringa. It requires policies and development actions to perform on mechanisms to advance the production of Moringa. Hence, any development direction to enhance Moringa production should consider households with limited access to land and irrigation. Furthermore, the development of road infrastructure is required to increase agricultural productivity. In sum, modern credit institutions, as well as facilities, found essential to improve the livelihood of Moringa producers in the area.
... Moringa stenopetala is belonging to the family Moringaceane which believed to be originated from southern Ethiopia, North Kenya, and Eastern Somalia (Mohammed, 2013). M. stenopetala is commonly called Shiferaw, shelagda, Halako, Aleko and found in many arid zones of the southern Ethiopia at an altitude range of about 1100 to 1600 m (Edwards et al., 2000). The local people cook the leaves and eat them with their traditional kurkufa (a cereal dish made with maize and surgum) and also use the leaves as a food, tea and medicine (Mekonnen and Gessesse, 1998;Jahn et al., 1986). ...
Moringa stenopetala is a socioeconomic valued tree that is widely available and cultivated in Southern part of Ethiopia. The leaves have been traditionally used as a food source with high nutritional and medicinal values. The present work was carried out to evaluate the effect of thermal treatment on the total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, antioxidant activities and α amylase inhibition of aqueous leaf extracts obtained from M. stenopetala during maceration and different decoction time
interval (5, 10 and 15 min). The total phenolic and flavonoid contents were determined by the Folin�ciocalteu and aluminum chloride methods, respectively whereas antioxidant activities were determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl(DPPH) radical scavenging, reducing power, phosphomolybdenum and
ferrous ion chelating assays and α-amylase inhibition potential was determined using 3,5-dinitrosalicylic acid method. Total phenolic and total flavonoid contents ranged from 34.35 ± 1.06 to
39.47 ± 1.33 mgGAE/g and 10.44 ± 0.61 to 20.36 ± 0.93 mgQRE/g, respectively. Decoction for 10 min extract showed ferrous ion chelating (92.52 ± 0.17 %), DPPH radical scavenging (91.52± 0.59 %), α-amylase inhibition (69.06 ± 0.14%), ferric reducing power (0.765 ± 0.14) and total antioxidant activity
(0.329 ± 0.32), respectively. DPPH, reducing power, total antioxidant and α-amylase inhibition activities
showed positive linear correlation (R2=0.853, R2= 0.857 , R2= 0.864 and R2=0.930), respectively with total
phenolic content but ferrous ion chelating activity were found to be weakly correlated (R2=0.481). Based on present investigation, it could be concluded that major lose of total phenolic content, antioxidant and α-amylase inhibition activities of the crude leaf extracts of M. stenopetala leaves were observed at decoction time for 15 min. Therefore, to maintain the total phenolic content, antioxidant and α-amylase inhibition activities of leaves, cooking practice should be at the optimum decoction time (5-10 min).
Key words: Moringa stenopetala, antioxidant, total phenolic content, α-amylase inhibition.
... During the data collection period, plant specimens were collected, pressed, dried properly and brought to the National Herbarium (ETH), Addis Ababa University for identification and authentication. The identification was done using the Flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea (FEE) [46][47][48][49][50][51][52] and by comparing with the authentic specimens in the ETH. Plant nomenclature followes FEE. ...
Background:
Traditional management regimes and knowledge systems of forest resources have shaped forests throughout the world where materials from individual species are harvested in a sustainable manner. To comprehend this, the vegetation of Hugumburda-Gratkhassu Forest was described and related to anthropogenic factors.
Methods:
Three ethnobotanical research methods were used to collect indigenous knowledge of the local inhabitants related to conservation and utilization of forest resources. Direct matrix ranking was conducted to discover local attitudes on species preference for multiple use. During this work, the 46 most important tree and shrub species were selected based on recommendations of local guides and key informants to determine the range of uses obtained from each species. Through paired comparison, activities supposed to be the major cause of degradation of the forest were adopted. Pairs of activities were then established from the relation n (n-1)/2. Each respondent was then asked to select an activity that he considered being a major problem to management of the forest. Semi-structured interviews were used to obtain information from sixty local informants to address community attitudes towards forest management and utilization.
Results:
The result obtained from direct matrix ranking showed; that 20 out of 46 plant species compared had the highest scores and rank, indicating that these species are the most important and are exploited by the local communities for multiple purposes. The paired comparison exercise revealed logging for construction materials to be the major threat to the forest due to cutting of large volume of wood for construction of churches, health centers, schools and new houses. Juniperus procera, Olea europaea ssp. cuspidata, Rhus glutinosa, Ficus sur, Hagenia abyssinica, Cassipourea malosana and Acacia etbaica were the most selected and exploited plant species for these purposes.
Conclusions:
Survival of protected areas depends on the support of local communities, rather than on fences, fines, or even force. The local communities in the study area have a rich indigenous ecological knowledge to suggest appropriate solutions for improvement of the forest resources. Thus the old tradition of isolating forests from the community has to be avoided and the basic needs and traditional rights of the communities over the uses of forest resources should be recognized.
... Photographic records were also taken in the field to capture the field sites, plants and other useful memories. The specimens were dried, deep-frozen, and determinations were made at the Ethiopian National Herbarium (ETH), Addis Ababa University, using taxonomic keys and descriptions given in the relevant volumes of the Flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea [12][13][14][19][20][21][22][23][24]and by visual comparison with authenticated herbarium specimens. Finally, the accuracy of identifications was confirmed by a senior plant taxonomist and the voucher specimens with labels were deposited at the ETH. ...
Traditional medicine has remained as the most affordable and easily accessible source of treatment in the primary healthcare system of resource poor communities in Ethiopia. The local people have a long history of traditional plant usage for medicinal purposes. This study documents indigenous medicinal plant utilization, management and the threats affecting them. Ethnobotanical data were collected using semi structured interviews, field observations, preference and direct matrix ranking with traditional medicine practitioners. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics; informant consensus factor and fidelity level using MS-Excel 2010. The ethno-medicinal use of 93 plant species belonging to 85 genera and 52 families were documented in the study area. The highest family in terms of species number is Fabaceae. Herbs were dominant (31.3%) flora followed by shrubs (30.1%). Most of the medicinal species (52.7%) were collected from the wild. Most of the plants (60.2%) were reportedly used to treat human diseases. The most frequently used plant parts were leaves (34.68%), followed by roots (23.39%). Fresh plant parts were used mostly (53.3%) followed by dried (29.3%) and the remaining (17.4%) either in fresh or dried. Among the preparations, pounding was the dominant (34.1%) form followed by powdering (13.29%). The remedial administration was mostly oral (54.91%) followed by dermal (30.64%). The highest (88.89%) Informant consensus factor was associated with Ocimum urticfoluim followed by Allium sativum (86.67%). The Fidelity level of Allium sativum was calculated irrespective of malaria treatment. Direct matrix analysis showed that Carissa spinarum was the most important species followed by Syzygium guineense indicating high utility value of these species for the local community. The principal threatening factors reported were deforestation followed by agricultural expansion.
... Photographic records were also taken in the field to capture the field sites, plants and other useful memories. The specimens were dried, deep-frozen, and determinations were made at the National Herbarium (ETH), Addis Ababa University, using taxonomic keys and descriptions given in the relevant volumes of the Flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea (Edwards et al., 1997; 2000; 1995; Hedberg and Edwards, 1995; 1989; Hedberg et al., 2003; 2004; 2009; 2006) [11-13, 19, 18, 20-23] and by visual comparison with authenticated herbarium specimens. Finally, the accuracy of identifications was confirmed by a senior plant taxonomist and the voucher specimens with labels were deposited at the ETH. ...
From time immemorial, plants have been an indispensable source of both preventive and curative medicinal preparations for human beings. Medicinal use is one of the services that plants provide for human welfare. The practice of traditional medicine is common in Ethiopia although it is not utterly studies and documented. An ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants was conducted in and around Fincha'a town, Western Ethiopia from September 2013 to August 2014. This study documents indigenous medicinal plant and utilization system. Ethnobotanical data were collected using semi structured interviews and field observations. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics using MS-Excel 2010. The ethno-medicinal use of 120 plant species belonging to 85 genera and 52 families were documented in the study area. The highest family in terms of species number is Fabaceae. Herbs were dominant (30%) flora followed by shrubs (28.33%). Most of the medicinal species (52.7%) were collected from the wild. Most of the plants (60.2%) were reportedly used to treat human diseases. The most frequently used plant part were leaves (34.68%), followed by roots (23.39%). Fresh plant parts were used mostly (53.3%) followed by dried (29.3%) and the remaining (17.4%) either in fresh or dried. Among the preparations, pounding was the dominant (34.1%) form followed by powdering (13.29%). The remedial administration was mostly oral (54.91%) followed by dermal (30.64%). Documenting the eroding plants and associated indigenous knowledge can be used as a basis for developing management plans for conservation and sustainable use of medicinal plants in the area.
... It is also used internally for loss of memory, hypertension, cystitis, gastritis and enteritis, diarrhoea and raised blood sugar levels [43]. Its application ranges from prevention of cancer, cancer treatment, antidiabetic , stomachic, reduces high blood pressure, externally against nose bleeding, sore throat and mouth ulcer [44], Insecticidal activity [45]. The objective of this study was to investigate the larvicidal effect of aqueous extract from the leaves of L. camara and C. roseus against the larvae of C. quinquefasciatus and A. aegypti. ...
The present study aimed to evaluate the aqueous extracts from the leaves of Catharanthus roseus L. and Lantana camara L. against filarial vector mosquito Culex quinquefasciatus Say and dengue vector Aedes aegypti L. The plant material was macerated and extracted with distilled water. The aqueous extract was tested at different concentrations of 1000, 500, 250, 125 and 62.5 ppm concentrations against I, II, III and IV instar larvae of C. quinquefasciatus and A. aegypti. The LC 50 values of C. roseus against I, II, III and IV instar larvae of C. quinquefasciatus were 30.28, 38.01, 59.12 and 71.81 and against A. aegypti 26.64, 34.64, 53.10 and 72.89 ppm. The LC 50 values of L. camara against I, II, III and IV instar larvae of C. quinquefasciatus were 35.48, 46.74, 67.64 and 95.51 and against A. aegypti 35.19, 38.26, 65.98 and 91.90 ppm. No mortality of was observed in control. Our results suggest that the aqueous extract of C. roseus have the potential to be used as an ecofriendly approach for the control larvae of vector mosquito C. quinquefasciatus and A. aegypti.
... Voucher specimens were collected, preserved, pressed and dried for identification. Preliminary identification was done in the field by using manuals and unidentified specimens were identified using herbarium materials, experts, and taxonomic keys in the various volumes of the flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea (Edwards et al., , 1997(Edwards et al., , 2000Hedberg and Edwards, 1995;Hedberg et al., 2006). The collected specimens with voucher numbers, family, species, vernacular names, dates and sites of collection were recorded and deposited at the Jimma Herbarium (Jimma University) and National Herbarium (Addis Ababa University). ...
... Fertile specimens of the plants were collected in the field using standard methods (Martin 1995) together with the TMPs. The collected specimens were identified by consulting floristic literature (Edwards et al. 1997, 2000, 1995, Hedberg & Edwards 1989, 1995, Hedberg et al. 2003 and cross-checking with identified collections at the National Herbarium in Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia. ...
An ethnobotanical study was conducted in Amaro Woreda, Southern Nations, Nationalities, and People’s Region (SNNPR), Ethiopia, with an objective to (1) document indigenous knowledge of the people on the use of medicinal plants and (2) investigate plant species that are used as medicines for the treatment of human health problems, thereby identifying indigenous knowledge for the conservation of biological and cultural diversities and threatening factors on plant species. Plant and ethnobotanical information were collected from selected areas of the woreda. A total of 17 traditional healers, most of them aged from 28 to 70 years were selected, and information was collected through questionnaires and personal interviews during field trips in the Korre ethnic group from August to December 2012. Descriptive analysis was performed for the data collected. A total of 56 medicinal plant species were reported by traditional healers of the Korre ethnic group, representing 52 genera and 31 families. The majority of plants recorded (77%) were wild. Of the plants, 38% were herbs and 34% shrubs. Thirty-one human ailments were identified by the traditional healers of the study area. Leaves constituted 33% of the total uses followed by roots (27%). Fifty-seven percent of the healer remedies were applied orally while 23% were applied on the skin. The plants recorded from Korre group were the ones with the highest fidelity level (FL) values. Conservation priority should be given for identified threatened medicinal plants, promoting in situ and ex situ conservation. © 2014 Ethnobotany Research & Applications. All right rsresved.
... Moringa stenopetala is belonging to the family Moringaceane which believed to be originated from southern Ethiopia, North Kenya, and Eastern Somalia (Mohammed, 2013). M. stenopetala is commonly called Shiferaw, shelagda, Halako, Aleko and found in many arid zones of the southern Ethiopia at an altitude range of about 1100 to 1600 m (Edwards et al., 2000). The local people cook the leaves and eat them with their traditional kurkufa (a cereal dish made with maize and surgum) and also use the leaves as a food, tea and medicine (Mekonnen and Gessesse, 1998;Jahn et al., 1986). ...
... Medicinal plants were collected from Gurage and Silti Zones, south central Ethiopia. Specimens were collected, pressed and identified by the first author and Melaku Wondafrash, an expert from the National Herbarium (ETH), through visual comparisons with authenticated plant specimens and using taxonomic keys in the volumes of Flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea [20][21][22][23][24][25]. Identifications were then authenticated by Prof. Sebsebe Demissew of Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia. ...
To overcome the escalating problems associated with infectious diseases and drug resistance, discovery of new antimicrobials is crucial. The present study aimed to carry out in vitro antimicrobial analysis of 15 medicinal plant species selected according to their traditional medicinal uses in Gurage and Silti Zones, south central Ethiopia.
Ethanol extracts of various plant parts were investigated for their antimicrobial activity against 20 bacterial and one yeast strains. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined by broth microdilution method.
Asparagus africanus, Guizotia schimperi, Lippia adoensis var. adoensis and Premna schimperi were active against Candida albicans, Enterococcus faecalis and Staphylococcus aureus at a concentration of 512 μg/ml or lower. Strong antibacterial activity (MIC ≥ 128 μg/ml) was observed for G. schimperi extract against 17 resistant and sensitive Staphylococcus strains, at a concentration comparable to standard antibiotics. Moreover, this extract showed higher antibacterial activity for the test against S. aureus ATCC 33591, ATCC 33592, SA3 and SA5 strains (128-256 μg/ml) than oxacillin (512 μg/ml).
The study revealed in vitro antibacterial activity of plants used in folk medicine in south central Ethiopia. The usefulness of these plants, in particular of G. schimperi, should be confirmed through further phytochemical and toxicity analyses.
... Photographic records were also taken in the field to capture the field sites, plants and other useful memories. The specimens were dried, deep-frozen, and determinations were made at the National Herbarium (ETH), Addis Ababa University, using taxonomic keys and descriptions given in the relevant volumes of the Flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea232425262728293031 and by visual comparison with authenticated herbarium specimens. Finally, the accuracy of identifications was confirmed by a senior plant taxonomist and the voucher specimens with labels were deposited at the ETH. ...
Remnant forests found in areas that have long been converted to agricultural landscapes are refuges of wild useful plants; and societies inhabiting them are custodians of rich indigenous botanical knowledge. This study was undertaken to document the medicinal plants used by the people living in and around Tara-gedam and Amba remnant forests, northwestern Ethiopia, together with the associated ethnomedicinal knowledge.
Data were collected from 105 informants through semi-structured interviews, guided field walk, market survey; and analyzed using standard ethnobotanical analytical tools including ranking and comparison.
A total of 163 medicinal plant species in 145 genera and 67 families were recorded among which Zehneria scabra drew the highest community consensus. Seventy-one percent of the medicinal plants were those used for treating human ailments only, 21% for both human and livestock and 8% for livestock only. Asteraceae, with 14 species, had the highest number of medicinal plant species. The medicinal plants mainly (79.1%) belong to the shrub and herb categories and most of them were sourced from the wild habitats. Leaves and fresh plant materials were more frequently used for medicine preparation than other parts. Protected government and church forests as well as tree propagation in nurseries followed by planting them and local practices constitute the major forest conservation efforts that indirectly protect the medicinal plants in the area. Elders and healers knew more about the medicinal plants, their distribution, the local ethnomedicinal practices and knowledge transfer patterns. Though important for the local healthcare system and with potentials for modern drug discovery, both the plants and the knowledge pool are under threat.
The diversity of medicinal plants and the associated indigenous knowledge of Tara-gedam and its environs are of a considerable value to the local community and beyond. There is, therefore, a need for conservation of the vegetation and the medicinal plants along with preservation of the wealth of the indigenous knowledge.
... The collected voucher specimens were pressed, numbered, dried, identified and deposited at the Jimma University Regional Herbarium and at The National Herbarium (ETH) in Addis Ababa University. Identification of specimens was done with the help of herbarium materials, experts and taxonomic keys in the Flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea [22][23][24][25][26][27][28]. ...
The usage of insect repellent plants (IRPs) is one of the centuries-old practices in Africa. In Ethiopia, malaria remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, subsequently the majority of people have a tendency to apply various plants as repellents to reduce or interrupt the biting activity of insects. Accordingly, this survey was undertaken to document and evaluate knowledge and usage practices of the local inhabitants on IRPs in the malaria epidemic-prone setting of Ethiopia.
Ethnobotanical survey was conducted between January and May 2013. Selected 309 household members were interviewed by administering pre-tested questionnaire on knowledge and usage practices of repellent plants, in Bechobore Kebele, Jimma Zone, Ethiopia.
Overall, 70.2% (217/309) and 91.8% (199/217) of the respondents have had ample awareness and usage practices of repellent plants, respectively. Informants cited about twenty-two plant species as repellents and also indicated that these plants are useful(85.5%), accessible(86.8%), and affordable(83.9%) too. Residents mainly applying dried leaves [93.9% (187/199)] by means of burning/smouldering [98.9% (197/199)] with the traditional charcoal stove to repel insects, primarily mosquitoes. About 52.8% (105/199) of the informants using aproximately15g of dried plant-materials every day. A Chi-square analysis shows statistically a significant link between the knowledge on repellent plants and gender as well as average monthly income although not with the age of the respondents. Nevertheless, the repellent plant usage custom was not significantly associated with gender, monthly income, and age of the informants.
Though most of the people have had an adequate awareness still a sizable faction of society suffers with deprivation of IRPs knowledge and usage practices. Therefore, this study calls for more surveys to conserve the existing indigenous knowledge and cultural practices. It could lay the first stone to develop the next generation cost-effective vector control tools in the near future.
... Cabbage growing is discontinued each year in December at Kofele, and the possibility of other cultivated and wild species of crucifers providing alternative hosts for DBM and their parasitoids is high (Dosdall et al., 2012). Sixty-one species of crucifers, including cultivated species, are reported to occur in Ethiopia (Edwards, Tadesse, Demissew, & Hedberg, 2000) and in the highlands crucifers are found throughout the year. Gathu, Lö hr, and Poehling (2008) have shown the importance of wild crucifer species in maintaining parasitoid populations in a similar situation in Kenya. ...
This study assessed vegetation structure and regeneration status of woody species in Gerba Dima forest, southwestern Ethiopia. Ninety sample plots measuring 25 m × 25 m were laid through a stratified random sampling procedure. The studied forest was stratified into three forest strata based on its altitudinal variation. Stratum I was found at an altitudinal range of 1500−1800 m, while strata II and III were located at altitudinal ranges of 1801−2000 m and 2001−2300 m, respectively. All woody plant species with a diameter at breast height (dbh) equal to or larger than 2.5 cm and a height of at least 1.5 m were recorded. Analysis of the structure of the vegetation was conducted using frequency distribution of dbh, height, and importance value (IV). The regeneration pattern of the study species was assessed by employing the total count of seedlings and saplings. The density of woody species in the study area was 1829 individuals ha⁻¹. Basal area of the Gerba Dima forest was 65.05 m²ha⁻¹. Total densities of seedlings, saplings, and trees/shrubs were 4558 ha⁻¹, 2149 ha⁻¹, and 1515 ha⁻¹, respectively. Structural analysis and assessment of the regeneration status of woody species in the Gerba Dima forest showed that the overall ecological condition of the forest was healthy as indicated by inverse J-curve dbh distribution, which showed a large number of individuals in lower dbh classes. Furthermore, a large number of seedlings and saplings were recorded for most species, in addition to the presence of a sufficient number of matured trees. However, some species exhibited abnormal population structure and abnormal patterns of regeneration characterized by fewer or no individuals in lower dbh, as well as in seedling and sapling stages. It was thus concluded that species with abnormal population structure and regeneration status (e.g., Sapium ellipticum and Trichilia dregeana) require urgent conservation attention.
Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahido Church forest plays a significant role in native species conservation, carbon sequestration, and climate change mitigation. The study was carried out to determine woody species diversity and biomass carbon stock of Church forests along the urbanization continuum in Dangila Woreda, Awi-Zone, Ethiopia. After a preliminary survey, the churches were grouped into urban, peri-urban, and rural continuums. From each group, one Church was purposively selected for each urbanization continuum based on accessibility for making a total of nine sample churches. Tree height and diameter data were recorded from a 2 m width of systematically laid down Gentry transect lines; seedlings were counted from three plots of 2 m × 2 m size at each transect line. The similarities along urbanization were calculated using Sorenson’s similarity index. ANOVA was then used to test for differences across the continuum. Finally, a total of 62, 57, and 73 woody species were identified in urban, per-urban, and rural Church forest. The mean Shannon diversity for each urban, peri-urban, and rural Church forest was 2.38, 2.67, and 2.90, respectively. The general pattern of woody species community structure for each urbanization continuum shows an inverted J-shape. The biomass carbon stock along the urban, peri-urban, and rural continuum was 24.96, 77.38, and 46.13 tons/ha, respectively. Therefore, Church forests play an indispensable role in woody species conservation, carbon sequestration, and climate change mitigation at each urbanization continuum.
Background
Ethnoveterinary medicinal plants have been used by the people of Dugda District in the primary health care system to treat various livestock ailments for generations, particularly, in underserved rural areas. However, these ethnoveterinary practices and medicinal plants are dwindling without proper documentation, due to undergoing socio-cultural and environmental changes. Hence, this study aimed at inventory and analysis of ethnoveterinary medicinal plants and the associated indigenous and local knowledge used in the treatment of livestock health problems in Dugda District.
Methods
Data were collected from 378 local inhabitants through semi-structured interviews, 18 focus group discussions with 6 to 8 participants in each couple with participant field observations. Informant consensus factor (ICF), fidelity-level (FL) and relative importance value (RI) were used to evaluate the agreement of informants on ethnoveterinary practices, healing potential of medicinal plants and the most multipurpose species. Using standard taxonomic procedures, voucher specimens were collected, identified and deposited at the National Herbarium of Addis Ababa University.
Results
In total, 64 medicinal plants of ethnoveterinary uses, belonging to 33 families were reported to treat 37 livestock health problems. Anthrax, inappetence and diarrhoea were said to be the most prevalent veterinary health problems treated by traditional medicinal plants. Family Fabaceae was the most widely reported (7 spp.), followed by Apocynaceae, Cucurbitaceae and Solanaceae (5 spp. each). Herbs were the dominant life forms (21spp.), followed by shrubs (20 spp.). The most commonly sought plant parts were leaves (55.25%), followed by roots (23.44%). The principal method of preparation was pounding remedial parts (46.85%) and mixing with cold water. The main route of administration was via oral application (72.67%), drenching diseased livestock. Withania somnifera and Kedrostis foetidissima were the most cited medicinal plants with 53 and 43 use reports (URs), respectively. ICF showed that respiratory diseases scored the highest value (0.94), while most of the reported medicinal plants were gastrointestinal agents. RI value analysis revealed that Croton macrostachyus had highest diversity of uses, followed by K. foetidissima and W. somnifera. Ethnoveterinary uses of some medicinal plants such as Phytolacca dodecandra, Calpurnia aurea, Cyphostemma cyphopetalum and Verbascum sinaiticum as prophylaxis against rabies were a new input for ethnoveterinary database.
Conclusion
The study revealed that the people of the Dugda District are endowed with rich ethnoveterinary knowledge and medicinal plants. However, ethnoveterinary knowledge associated with medicinal plant species significantly differ (P < 0.05) between general and key informants, young and matured age groups and informants’ educational level. This infers the impact of mode of ethnoveterinary knowledge transfer, literacy, modern education and globalization on ethnoveterinary uses of medicinal plant species. And also most of the medicinal plants are found in wild habitats with nearly no conservation attention. Therefore, it is imperative to implement participatory conservation actions for medicinal plants in collaboration with traditional institutions (Gada system). The disparity of ethnoveterinary knowledge could be also minimized through awareness creation among local communities about the knowledge and its revitalization. Furthermore, medicinal plants, which are widely utilized and multipurpose, should be screened for their phytochemicals, pharmacological and toxicological activities to confirm ethnoveterinary uses and for future development of veterinary pharmaceuticals.
Moringa stenopetala is a multipurpose tropical plant native to East Africa. The plant is exceptionally rich in nutrients and health-promoting bioactive compounds. It is among the top plants that could potentially feed the world and alleviate nutritional deficiencies. Moringa stenopetala is a versatile plant because its various parts, including leaves, seeds, flowers, pods, bark, and roots are useful to humans. Especially, the leaves and seeds are high in protein with all the essential amino acids. Based on the FAO database, M. stenopetala seed protein with its essential amino acid content stands highest among all commercial plant protein sources. Though it is a high-value plant and extensively used for food and traditional medicine by the local people in its native place, it is underutilized elsewhere. This chapter reviews recent research efforts that aim to unlock the potential of the plant as a source of ingredients for food, cosmetic and nutraceutical industries.
In the present study, the diversity of medicinal plants and associated traditional medicinal knowledge of the rural community in the Ameya district in Ethiopia was assessed and documented. A survey was conducted through semistructured interviews, guided field walks, focus group discussions, and field observations. The snowball and purposeful sampling techniques were employed to select general and knowledgeable informants, respectively. Accordingly, a total of 210 respondents, 156 (74.3%) males and 54 (25.7%) females, were participated in this study. The informants were selected from seven kebeles (the lowest administrative units) following the recommendations of the local community for the availability of traditional medicinal plant use practice. Descriptive statistics, preference ranking, fidelity level, informant consensus factor, and direct matrix ranking were used to analyze and present the data. A total of 78 medicinal plants represented in 70 genera and 40 families were identified. Croton macrostachyus and Dodonaea viscosa were the most preferred species used to treat wounds, whereas Cucumis ficifolius and Phragmanthera macrosolen were the most popular species applied to treat stomachache. Leaves (38%) and roots (20%) were the most predominantly used plant parts for remedial preparation to treat 42 human ailments. The informant consensus factor (ICF) value ranged between 0.45 and 0.81, with the respiratory diseases category scoring the highest ICF value. The fidelity level (FL) value for the medicinal plants ranged from 24 to 95%. Considerable proportions (55.5%) of the medicinal plants were collected from wild habitats. Higher ICF (0.81) and FL (>90%) scores indicate the presence of rich traditional knowledge in the community. This knowledge can be used to select medicinal plants (such as Croton macrostachyus, Cucumis ficifolius, Dodonaea viscosa, and Phragmanthera macrosolen) for further pharmacological and phytochemical studies.
This study was conducted in Abbo Sacred Forest in Wonsho district, Sidama Zone of Southern Nations, Nationalities, and People’s Region (SNNPR), southern Ethiopia, to investigate the woody species diversity, vegetation structure, and regeneration status of the forest. A systematic sampling design was employed to collect vegetation data. Sixty quadrats of 20 m × 20 m were laid at every 200 m interval between each quadrat and 400 m apart between each line transect following the altitudinal gradient. Quadrats of 20 m × 20 m were used to record DBH and the height of all woody plant species reaching a height of ≥2 m and a DBH of ≥2 cm. For the inventory of seedlings and saplings, five subplots of 2 m × 2 m, one at the center and the other four on each corner of the main quadrat, were used. DBH, height, seedling, and sapling density of woody species were recorded in each quadrat. The data were analyzed by using Shannon–Wiener diversity and equitability indices, and the structural analysis was carried out based on frequency, density, DBH, height, and basal area/ha−1. The importance value index was also computed. Regeneration status was computed by comparing the density data of saplings and seedlings with those of mature trees. A total of 63 woody species belonging to 56 genera and 35 families were identified. Three endemic species to Ethiopia were recorded. Analysis of selected woody species showed diverse population structures. The findings of this study revealed that small trees and shrubs dominated the forest, suggesting its status under a secondary stage of development. Some woody species require urgent conservation measures. Therefore, local and regional stakeholders should integrate and work together to develop and implement sound conservation and management strategies that encourage the sustainable utilization of forest resources.
Based on vegetation surveys made in the southern region of Saudi Arabia between 2020 and 2021, five new plant taxa including four species and one subspecies, belonging to four families that had not previously been recorded in Saudi Arabia's flora were discovered. Within the Arabian Peninsula, all newly recorded species (i.e., Alysicarpus vaginalis (L.) DC. (Fabaceae), Commiphora schimperi (O.Berg) Engl. (Burseraceae), Maerua angolensis DC. subsp. angolensis (Capparaceae), Peperomia leptostachya Hook. & Arn. (Piperaceae), and Vigna vexillata (L.) A.Rich. (Fabaceae) were recorded in Yemen while A. vaginalis was also recorded in Oman. Brief descriptions and comments on the phytogeography of each taxon are given. The distribution of plants in Faifa Mountains and surrounding areas was mapped using geographic information systems (GIS) and ground surveys.
Protected areas are the most commonly used tool for in situ conservation of biodiversity. Selective removal of species proposed by the local communities living surrounding the national park and grazing pressure negatively affect the composition, structure, and regeneration of woody species. Assessment of vegetation structure and regeneration status of woody species is essential for orienting management activities. The purpose of this study was to investigate the floristic composition, population structure, and regeneration status of woody species in the Loka Abaya National Park, to design conservation strategies. A total of 99, 20 m × 20 m quadrats were systematically laid along an established line transect to collect a list of woody species, abundance, height, and diameter at breast height (DBH), while five 3 m × 3 m subquadrats within the main quadrats were established to assess the regeneration status of woody species. In each quadrat, all woody species were identified, counted, and recorded. In each quadrat, all tree and shrub species higher than ≥2 m in height and ≥2 cm in diameter at breast height were measured by a calibrated wooden stick and by a caliper, respectively. Density, frequency, basal area, importance value index (IVI), height, and diameter at breast height (DBH) were used for description of vegetation structure, while the density of mature trees, saplings, and seedlings was used for assessment of regeneration status of woody species. A total of 101 woody plant species representing 40 families in 69 genera were collected, identified, and documented. Fabaceae was the most diverse family representing 16 (15.84%) species, followed by Euphorbiaceae 9 species (8.91%) and Anacardiaceae with 6 species (5.94%). Four families including Combretaceae, Moraceae, Olacaceae, and Tiliaceae were represented by 4 species each. 4 families were also represented by 3 species each, 12 families were represented by two species each, and 18 families were represented by one species. The density of trees was 831.31 individuals ha⁻¹, while the total basal area was 73.18 m²·ha⁻¹. D. angustifolia, C. molle, E. schimperi, R. natalensis, O. europaea L. subsp. cuspidataD. cinerea, A. brevispica, I. mitis, and E. tirucalli were ecologically important woody species. The majority (75%) of woody plant species had a less than 5% importance value index (IVI). The diameter class distribution of selected tree species demonstrated various patterns of population structure, implying the existence of different population dynamics among ecologically important tree species. The regeneration assessment results demonstrate that 32.35% had poor regeneration, 19.12% had good regeneration, 16.17% had fair regeneration, 8.82% lacked regeneration, and 14.08% appeared as newly regenerated species in the national park. The majority of woody species had a small population size, and some of them were found in specific habitats which need attention for conservation, and those woody species lack regeneration study soil seed bank and propagation methods for sustainable conservation.
A study was conducted in Adola Reedde to identify major grass species and evaluate their chemical composition, in vitro digestibility, and dry matter yield. Sixty key informants taken from the sampled kebele of three agro-climates were interviewed to identify common grasses in their vernacular name. Relative feed value and dry matter digestibility were computed using neutral detergent fibre and acid detergent fibre contents. Spearman's rank correlation was used to examine relationships between laboratory results and farmers' perception of grass quality. Fifteen grass species were identified and ranked by farmers according to the species' preferences for cattle. Crude protein values ranged from 56.5 g/kg DM for lowland to 113 g/kg DM for highland agro-climate. overall mean of neutral detergent fibre was 662 g/kg DM, and in vitro dry matter digestibility and relative feed value were 446.5 g/kg DM and 60.97%, respectively. Total dry matter yield and dry matter of individual grass species were significantly (P < 0.001) higher in highland than in low land agro-climate. Dry matter yield across agro-climate ranged from 92.47 ± 0.04 g m⁻²-119.41 ± 0.07 g m⁻² for highland and lowland agro-climate, respectively. Generally, study highlights the potential of herbaceous species to support livestock production if the grassland is properly rehabilitated and managed.
Agroforestry systems are among the promising land use systems that enable to address both the development and livelihood issues of the community all over the world. In southwestern Ethiopia, homegarden and coffee agroforestry systems are widely used farming systems. Despite the fact that the systems are widely used and important, there are little studies on the subject. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess homegarden and coffee agroforestry systems plant diversity and composition in Yayu Biosphere Reserve. To achieve the study's goal, data was collected through forest inventories and household surveys. A total of 101 plant species from 49 families were identified, with 74 from homegardens (37 families) and 57 from coffee agroforestry systems (34 families). In terms of dominating plants in agroforestry systems, home gardens are dominated by herbaceous plants, accounting for 51 percent, whereas coffee agroforestry systems in the study region are dominated by trees, accounting for 72 percent. About 38 percent of household gardens and 77 percent of coffee agroforestry are made up of indigenous plant species. According to the findings, both agroforestry systems at the research site have a great diversity of plant species. As a result, the systems may be able to provide a wide range of services to farmers. Farmers, professionals, and legislators must collaborate to improve the systems' components, composition, and arrangements in order to maximize and protect the systems' multiple benefits.
The study was conducted in protected woodland and free graze woodland located in Dugda Woreda, Oromia state, Ethiopia. The objective of the study was to explore the floristic composition, structure, and regeneration of woody species. In the park, the vegetation ecology has not been studied up to date, which is necessary for conservation. The systematic sampling technique was used to collect vegetation and human disturbance (presence and absence) data from August to December 2017. The vegetation data were collected from 30 plots from each woodland with a size of 900 m2 (30 m × 300 m) for tree/shrub, while subplots of size 400 m2 (20 m × 20 m) for sapling, respectively, were established in the main plots. Individual tree and shrub diameters at breast height (DBH) ≥2.5 cm and height ≥ 2 m were measured using a tape meter and clinometer, respectively. Diameter at breast height (DBH), frequency, density, basal area, and importance value index (IVI) were used for vegetation structure description, while the densities of mature trees, sapling, and seedling were used for regeneration. A total of 446 individual stems from free grazed woodland and 641 individual stems from protected woodland with a DBH of ≥2.5 cm were encountered from 30 studied sample plots that are protected and free grazed woodlands. Of these, from the total woody species, 68.42% were trees and 31.57% shrubs found in protected woodland; 76.92% were trees and 23.07% shrubs found in free grazed woodland. The total basal area of the woody plant was 3.1 ± 1 m2/ha in free grazed woodland and 4.2 ± 2 m2/ha in protected woodland, calculated for 19 woody species. Fabaceae, Balanitaceae, Capparidaceae, Verbenaceae, and Boraginaceae families were the most abundant families in both woodlands. However, there is a good initiation for the conservation of the park; still, the vegetation of the park was threatened by human-induced fire following intensive farming, gold mining, and overgrazing.
In Ethiopia, among many restoration efforts to reverse deforestation and land degradation, area exclosure is one of the most common practices to restore secondary forests with assisted natural regeneration. The present study in the Sekota district, northeastern Amhara region, Ethiopia evaluated the influence of areas exclosures on woody species diversity, population structure and regeneration status. A total of 36 and 27 quadrats, each 20 m × 20 m, were used to collect data in exclosures and non-exclosures, respectively. Within quadrats, four 5 m × 5 m and 2 m × 2 m quadrats at the corners were used to sample saplings and seedlings, respectively. In exclosures, 35 woody species representing 21 families and 29 genera were recorded; 19 woody species representing 13 families and 13 genera were recorded in the non-exclosure. Acacia etbaica was the most dominant species in the two land-uses. The Shannon diversity index was 1.77 ± 0.46 in exclosures and 1.39 ± 0.46 in non-exclosures. Shannon and Simpson diversity indices showed a significant difference between the two land-uses (p < 0.01). The regeneration status of all wood species in exclosures was good, only fair in non-exclosures. Area exclosures have thus played a great role in the restoration of degraded lands by improving vegetation diversity and regeneration status. The least dominant woody species should be maintained through active restoration. Continuous follow-up, maintenance of soil water conservation structure to improve soil fertility will further help enhance the woody species diversity and abundance.
Background: Ethnoveterinary medicine is frequently used for treating various livestock diseases by many different ethnic groups in Ethiopia. To this end, the indigenous knowledge on medicinal plants and non-plant remedies has not been systematically documented and studied in the Dawuro zone. Therefore, a community based cross-sectional study design was conducted from November, 2017 to September, 2018 in order to identify and document medicinal plants and non-plant ethnoveterinary practices in Dawuro zone, Southern Ethiopia.
Methods: Relevant ethnoveterinary data was collected from purposively selected 115 key informants using semi-structured questionnaire, focus group discussions, observations and field guided walk methods. The obtained data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, quantitative ethnobotanical methods and T-test and significantly test was set to p < 0.05. The plants claimed having medicinal value were collected and botanically identified.
Results: The study revealed 103 plant species belong to 47 families and 11 non-plant remedies used to manage 36 different livestock ailments. Family Asteraceae accounted for 11.5% of the total species recorded. The majority of plants (56.2%) were harvested from wild habitat. Herbs (33.8%) were the main source of medicine followed by tree (30.6%). Leaves (43.6%) and roots (27.5%) were the main plant parts used while pounding was the major form in remedy preparation. The highest Informant Consensus Factor (0.83) value was scored for the diseases of reproductive system. Cyphostema sp., Calpurina aurea and Pentas schimperiana were showed the highest Fidelity Level (100%) to treat diseases of reproductive system, ectoparasites, and emaciation and bone broken as plant materials whereas Bear faeces, sharp hot iron or wire/knife, and salt were non-plant remedies used as treatment, respectively. Azadirachta indica was the most preferred species to treat blackleg and also with highest use-value (UVs = 0.25).
Conclusion: The study revealed that the local community of the study areas was used with a rich of indigenous knowledge of ethnoveterinary medicinal plants. The loss of valuable medicinal plant resources of the area calls for urgent and coordinated actions to develop conservation strategy.
Background
External infections involving the skin and wound are the most frequent complications affecting humans and animals. Medicinal plants play great roles in the treatment of skin and wound infections. This study was aimed to evaluate the in vitro antibacterial activity of crude methanolic extracts of nine medicinal plants.
Methods
Agar well diffusion and broth dilution methods were used to determine the antibacterial activity of nine Ethiopian plants against four bacterial species including Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae.
Results
Among the tested plants, seven (Cissus quadrangularis, Commelina benghalensis, Euphorbia heterophylla, Euphorbia prostrate, Momordica schimperiana, Trianthema spp., and Solanum incanum) were found to exhibit considerable antibacterial activity against at least one of the test bacteria. The extracts of C. quadrangularis, E. heterophylla, and E. prostrata had a wide spectrum of antibacterial activities against test bacterial strains while the extracts of Grewia villosa and Schinus molle did not show any inhibitory activity. Clinical isolate and laboratory strain of S. aureus showed the highest susceptibility to highest concentration (780 mg/mL) of E. prostrata with a zone of inhibition of 21.0mm and 22.3mm, respectively.
Conclusion
This study indicates clear evidence supporting the traditional use of seven plants in treating skin and wound infections related to bacteria.
Aim
Investigation of the geographical origin of Senecio and the colonization of the Palaearctic including the relationship of life‐history strategy and elevational distribution in the source area and the colonized area.
Location
Worldwide with a focus on the Afrotropic and the Palaearctic.
Methods
Sampling focused on adding species from the Afrotropic to existing datasets of Senecio. Two nuclear markers and three chloroplast markers were amplified and sequenced. Maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference were used to infer phylogeny, divergence times, biogeographical history and life‐history strategy evolution.
Results
Senecio originated most likely during the Mid to Late Miocene in western southern Africa (WSA). Colonization of the Palaearctic probably started from two different areas. One lineage of mostly annual lowland species seems to have originated in WSA, whereas the other lineage of perennial mountain species originated in mountainous areas of eastern southern Africa or tropical/subtropical East Africa.
Main conclusions
Senecio evolved in arid or semi‐arid regions in WSA during a period of ongoing aridification and broad‐scale biome changes at the onset of a winter rainfall regime in the Greater Cape Floristic Region. Life‐history strategy and elevational distribution of the two Palaearctic lineages did not change between the source areas and the colonized areas.
ResearchGate has not been able to resolve any references for this publication.