Checklist of Ethno-Medico-Botanical Trees in Igbariam Campus of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

The inventory of tree species and their enthno-medico-botanical information was carried out to document species richness and provide the first comprehensive checklist of trees in Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam campus, Anambra State, Nigeria. The checklist presents the species in botanical and local names, families, origin, habit and their ecological status. Results showed that 45 trees species of ethnomedicinal values with a total frequency of 695 belonging to 40 genera in 25 families were identified and documented to cure about 50 health disorders. Elaeis guineensis had the highest occurrence and Fabaceae family recorded the highest number of species (5) while 16 families were found to have 1 species each. Leaf had the highest frequency (31.93%) in plants part used for medicinal purposes while whole plant, fruit water/juice, wood and shell were the least (0.84%). Sixty per cent (60%) of all the species are exotic while (40%) are indigenous to Nigeria and West Africa. One species (Delonix regia) according to IUCN redlist is vulnerable. University management should intensify efforts towards planting more trees and protection of the existing ones. Avenue planting, establishment of botanical gardens and tree plantations within the area is highly recommended.