‘‘Use and Management of Medicinal Plants by Indigenous People in Mida Kegn District,West Showa Zone, Oromia National Regional State, Ethiopia‟

Abstract

The indigenous people in Ethiopia have developed their own specific knowledge for using, managing, and conserving plant resources. This study aims to investigate the ethno-botanical aspects of medicinal plants used by the local communities of Mida Kegn district, including their uses, management, conservation, and indigenous knowledge on preparation and administration. The indigenous people in this area rely on traditional medicinal plantsfor their healthcare duetotheireffectivemedicinalproperties.Ethnobotanical data was collected through semi-structured interviews, field observations, and focused group discussions with both key informants (traditional healers) and general informants. Key informants were selected using purposive sampling, while the general informants were selected randomly. A total of 250 informants, including 188 (75.2%) males and 62 (24.8%) females, participated in the collection of ethno-botanical data. The study documented 65 plant species from 55 genera and 33 families. The family Fabaceae contributed the highest number of species (8, 12.31%), followed by Asteraceae (7, 10.77%). The plant species Ocimum urticifoluim Roth.was cited by 66 (26.4%) informants for its medicinal value in treating fever; making it the most commonly mentioned plant. Allium sativum and Lepidium sativum ranked 2nd and 3rd , respectively, cited by 50 (20%) and 49 (19.6%) informants. Leaves 85(34%) were the most frequently used plant parts, followed by roots 66(26.4%), for preparing herbal medicine. The oral route 124(49.6%) was the most common method of administration, followed by nasal 47(18.76%). The demand for medicinal plants among the indigenous people of the district, coupled with their quality, has led to a decrease in availability and abandonment of these plants. Therefore, there is a need to cultivate or develop alternative technologies to ensure a sustainable supply of medicinal plants. The major threats to medicinal plants in the Mida Kegn district include charcoal making, collection of fuel wood, construction materials, and the need for agricultural land.