Ethnobotanical Study on Medicinal Plants Used to Treat Human Ailments in Begi District, WestWollega Zone, Oromia RegionalNational state, Ethiopia.

Abstract

Medicinal plant species is very significant in Ethiopia for biodiversity conservation and indigenous knowledge retention.The objective of the study was to assess traditional use of medicinal plants used to treat human ailments by local communities of Begi district Oromia regional state. This study was conducted from July 2018 to August 2018 and a cross sectional study design was used for the study area. Forty total informants were selected simple random technique from four ‘kebeles’ of Begi district. Selection of informants was based on the presence of traditional healers and abundance of plants. 10 informants were selected as key informants by purposive random sample technique. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and field observation with informants. Data were organized and analyzed by excel spreadsheet and the result were presented in tables and graphs. 60 medicinal plant species belonging to 56 genera and 41 families were identified and documented. 24 ailments were identified which are treated by medicinal plants, among which, abdominal cramp was frequently reported. Out of 41 families, Fabaceae, Solanaceae, and Rutaceae were the most reported medicinal plants to treat human ailments in the study area. According to the habit of medicinal plants used in the study area, trees were the most used which account for about 46.67% followed by herbs (33.33%). From collected plant species leaf, (48.33) and its crushed forms were most preferred plant parts used of remedy preparation respectively. Traditional medicinal plants and associated indigenous knowledge are the main system to maintain human health. Thus, in-situ and ex-situ conservation practice and sustainable utilization are required in the community.