MEDICINAL PLANTS USE FOR TREATMENT OF COMMON DISEASES WIHTINSOKOTO METROPOLIS

Abstract

The study documented medicinal plants used for the treatment of common diseases in SokotoMetropolis, Sokoto State, Nigeria. The research employed a descriptive and exploratory designaimed at identifying and recording various plant species, their local and scientific names, partsused, methods of preparation, and diseases treated. Data were collected through interviews withtraditional healers, herbal vendors, and elderly residents, as well as field observations andphotographic documentation. A total of thirty-five (35) medicinal plant species belonging tovarious families were identified and documented. These plants are used to treat diseases such asmalaria, fever, cough, diarrhea, typhoid fever, hypertension, and skin infections. Commonly usedplants include Azadirachta indica (Neem), Moringa oleifera (Moringa), Zingiber officinale(Ginger), Hibiscus sabdariffa (Zobo), and Psidium guajava (Guava). Methods of preparationinclude decoction, infusion, grinding, and direct application, while the parts used include leaves,bark, seeds, fruits, and roots. The study revealed that the use of medicinal plants remainswidespread due to their affordability, accessibility, and cultural acceptance. However, challengessuch as lack of dosage standardization, poor documentation, and declining interest amongyounger generations threaten the preservation of indigenous knowledge. It is concluded thatmedicinal plants play a vital role in the primary healthcare system of Sokoto Metropolis. Thestudy recommends proper documentation, conservation, and scientific validation of these plants,as well as collaboration between traditional healers and modern healthcare practitioners to ensuresafety, sustainability, and knowledge preservation