Medicinal plants used by communities of Ngai Subcounty, Apac District, northern Uganda
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Date
2007
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
African Journal of ecology
Abstract
An ethnobotanical survey was carried out in Ngai subcounty
in Apac District. Three parishes of Ajerijeri, Abok
A and Omach were taken as stratified sample areas in
which both male and female traditional healers of different
ages were interviewed. Information about the
medicinal plants and traditional healing was gathered
using questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, informal
discussion and field excursion which yielded lists of local
plant names, names of diseases treated, mode of administration
and parts used. To enhance their effectiveness,
medicinal plants are used in combinations to treat various
ailments and the extent of knowledge of medicinal
plant mixing determines the success of a traditional
healer. Roots were the most commonly harvested part
and this has greatly affected the regeneration of medicinal
plants. It was believed that only plants collected from the
wild were effective. Though not intentional, plant parts
not used for medicinal purposes are sometimes destroyed
in the process of harvesting. This practice, coupled with
over harvesting, threatens the continued existence of
these plants.
Description
Keywords
Conservation, Medicinal plants, Traditional healers
Citation
Okello, J., & Ssegawa, P. (2007). Medicinal plants used by communities of Ngai Subcounty, Apac District, northern Uganda. African Journal of ecology, 45, 76-83.