Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal Plants Used in the Management of Common Diseases in Ogbia Local Government Area, Bayelsa State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Traditional medicine remains an important component of healthcare in many rural communities, particularly where access to orthodox healthcare is limited. This study documented the medicinal plants used and characterised ethno-medicinal practices among residents of Ogbia Local Government Area, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional ethnobotanical survey was conducted among 50 respondents using structured questionnaires, oral interviews, and field observations. Information on medicinal plants, their local uses, parts utilised, methods of preparation, routes of administration, and ailments treated was collected. Plant specimens were collected, identified, and authenticated. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and presented as frequencies and percentages. Results: A total of 50 medicinal plant species belonging to 47 genera and 34 families were documented. Euphorbiaceae, Gramineae, and Rutaceae were among the most represented families. Female respondents constituted the majority of participants, while knowledge of medicinal plants was more concentrated among older respondents. Malaria was the most frequently reported ailment treated with medicinal plants, followed by fever and cough. Herbs constituted the predominant growth form, leaves were the most commonly utilised plant part, and oral administration was the principal route of administration. Conclusion: Traditional medicine remains widely utilised in Ogbia Local Government Area, largely due to its affordability, accessibility, and cultural acceptance. The concentration of ethnomedicinal knowledge among older individuals underscores the need for systematic documentation, preservation of indigenous knowledge, and scientific investigation of commonly used medicinal plants to establish their safety and therapeutic potential.