Ethnopharmacological survey of plants used in the treatment of diabetes mellitus in south of Togo (Maritime Region)

Abstract

Ethnopharmacological relevanceDiabetes mellitus remains a major public health problem due to its incidence and prevalence. In Togo, several plants are used by the practitioners of traditional medicine in the treatment of this disorder. The objective of this work was to identify medicinal plants used by traditional practitioners in the treatment of diabetes mellitus in the Maritime area of southern Togo. Materials and methodsData was collected from 59 informants using a structured questionnaire. ResultsThe use of sixty five (65) medicinal plant species were recorded as being used by traditional practitioners in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. The plants recorded are divided into 62 genera and 34 families. The families most represented were Euphorbiaceae (6 species) and Asteraceae (6 species). Conyza aegyptiaca (L.) was the specie with the highest relative frequency of citation (RCF 20.53%). The dominant plant part used in the preparation of remedies was the leaves (60.89%). A decoction (89.23%) was the main mode of preparation, while taking the remedies orally (98.44%) was the principal route of administration. ConclusionThe results of the study indicated that the Maritime Region of Togo may have a range of plants that have antidiabetic activity. Further work is required to establish their clinical efficacy for this condition.