Ethno pharmacological survey in the MifiDivision (Cameroon)

Abstract

Our study took place in the Mifi Division, western Cameroon. The aim of this study was to identify the medicinal plants used in this Division. To carry out this survey, we used three methods to collect data: the field study, the comparative study and the interview of traditional healers from a pre-established list. We interviewed 15 traditional healers who were recommended to us by traditional chiefs, some churchmen and health workers. The interviews with 15 traditional healers yielded 39 plants in Bafoussam, 62 plants in Baleng, 20 plants in Bamougoum, 12 plants in Bapi and 16 plants in Badeng. There is a similarity in magnitude in the use of herbs between infectious, childhood and general traumatic pathologies respectively 17.54% and 15.78%. This represents the highest percentage of plant use in this Division. Gynaecological and obstetrical diseases come in third place with 14.03% of plants used. Then come the pathologies of the otorhinolaryngological system with a use of 10.52% of plants. Nervous system pathologies use 7.01%. Parasitic pathologies are treated by 5.20% of the plants. Dermatological and cardiovascular pathologies use 3.50% of plants respectively. Finally, viral and gastro-enteritis diseases are treated with 5.20% of plants each. The Plants species collected will certainly contribute to the production of the original traditional pharmacopoeia. The 149 plants mentioned above would form the basis for the development of improved traditional medicines for start.