Abstract:
This study focuses on documenting and exploring the utilization, spiritual and philosophical
aspect and preparation of traditional (folk) medicinal plants among urban Oromo’s of Jimma and Agaro
town, Ethiopia. A total of 14 informants within the age group of 43 to 79 were interviewed several times
with regard to different folk medicinal plants. About 30 folk medicinal plants species were classified
across three types, based on part of the plant used for medicinal purpose, have been documented with
their corresponding scientific names in this paper. The study indicates that traditional/cultural/folk
medicinal plants used by the urban Oromo’s of Jimma and Agaro towns are under serious risk due to
external and internal influences. The expansion and dominance of western culture, technology and
scientific knowledge system has greatly impacting the younger generation from preserving the knowledge
of their fore fathers in general, and folk healing wisdoms and practices in particular. Thus, attention
should be given for the preservation of these plants and folk healer’s wisdom.
