Conducting an Inventory and Ethnobotanical Assessment of Plant Species at Osun State College of Education in Ila-Orangun, Osun State, Nigeria

Aims: Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants was carried out in 6 major markets in Ila Local Government Area to propose best conservation methods for the identified species.

Study Design: The study was designed to assess the plant species in osun state college of education, Ila-orangun, osun state, Nigeria.

Place and Duration of Study: An inventory of plant species in Osun State College of Education, Ila Orangun in Igbomina Region was done to establish a data base of the plant species and identify plants of economic importance in the study area, in the month of February, 2023.

Methodology: Information was obtained through interviews using semi-structured questionnaires. Field surveys with herb sellers, herbalists and elderly people were carried out. Descriptive statistics were used to present the data. Fidelity ratios and Informant consensus agreements were also calculated.

Inventory of Plant Species

Field Survey: A thorough field survey was conducted within the college campus and surrounding areas to identify and document all plant species present.

Documentation: The scientific names, common names and local names of each plant species observed were adequately recorded.

GPS Mapping: GPS coordinates were used to map the locations where different plant species were found to create a comprehensive database.

Collection of Specimen: Herbarium specimens of each plant species were collected for further identification and verification. The specimens were properly pressed, dried and mounted at the herbarium of Lagos State University.

Photographic Documentation: Photographs of each plant species which include close up of the leaves, flowers, fruits and some other distinctive features were taken to aid proper identification.

Data Management: Collected data were organized into a systemic database that include information such as habit, ethnobotanical values and ecological roles.

Ethnobotanical Assessment

Interviews and Surveys: The local community dwellers, the herb sellers who are custodians of knowledge about herbs, the staff of the college and herbalists were interviewed to gather information on the traditional uses of the plants in the study area and the information were documentd as it relates to medicinal uses, cultural practices, food sources and other traditional uses.

Documentation of Uses: Detailed information on the specific parts used was recorded.

Analysis of Ethnobotanical Data: Analysis of the data collected to identify patterns in plant uses and their cultural significance was done using factor informant agreement and Fidelity ratios. Findings were compared with existing ethnobotanical literature.

Community Participation: Community members were and local experts in the knowledge of plants and herbs were involved throughout the assessment process to ensure cultural sensitivity accuracy in recording ethnobotanical knowledge.

Reporting and Recommendations

Report Compilation: Comprehensive report detailing the findings on the plant species inventory and ethnobotanical assessment which include tables, graphs and descriptions to illustrate the diversity of plant species and their uses was done.

Conservation Recommendations: Recommendations for conservation and management of plant resources based on the assessment findings were made taking into consideration the species with ethnobotanical or cultural importance.

Education and Awareness: Adequate suggestion on educational programmes or initiatives within the college and local community to raise awareness about the importance of conserving plant biodiversity and traditional knowledge was made.

Policy Implication: Potential policy implications relating to sustainable use of plant resources and preservation of traditional knowledge among decision makers and stake holders were discussed.

Results: A total of 104 plant species belonging 43 families were identified in the study area and 78 out of the identified plant species were reported in the treatment of various health conditions. Family Asteraceae was dominant representing 11 % of the plant species documented. Azadirachta indica was the preferred species for treating malaria. Leaves (32%) were the most frequently used parts in preparing herbal remedies. Decoctions and oral route of administration were commonly used method of herbal medicine preparation and administration respectively. 70 health conditions grouped in 21 categories were treated using medicinal plants. Informant consensus agreement was highest for infections which included STDs and STIs, gyneacological issues, Infant care, jaundice/typhoid/malaria/fever (1.0), this indicate homogeneity of informant’s knowledge about remedies used. Azadirachta indica and Acalypha wilkesiana Muell had 100 % fidelity level for treatment of malaria and Infant care respectively.

Conclusion: The diversity of medicinal plant species used and the associated indigenous knowledge are of great value to the local community and their conservation and preservation is paramount. The ethno medicinal uses of the documented plants provides basic data for further research focused on pharmacological studies and conservation of the endangered species is very important.