Abstract:
Background: The Kagera region of north western Tanzania has a rich culture of traditional medicine use and
practices. The dynamic inter-ethnic interactions of different people from the surrounding countries constitute a rich
reservoir of herbal based healing practices. This study, the second on an ongoing series, reports on the medicinal
plant species used in Katoro ward, Bukoba District, and tries to use the literature to establish proof of the
therapeutic claims.
Methodology: Ethnomedical information was collected using Semi-structured interviews in Kyamlaile and Kashaba
villages of Katoro, and in roadside bushes on the way from Katoro to Bukoba through Kyaka. Data collected
included the common/local names of the plants, parts used, the diseases treated, methods of preparation, dosage,
frequency and duration of treatments. Information on toxicity and antidote were also collected. Literature was
consulted to get corroborative information on similar ethnomedical claims and proven biological activities of the
plants.
Results: Thirty three (33) plant species for treatement of 13 different disease categories were documented. The
most frequently treated diseases were those categorized as specific diseases/conditions (23.8% of all remedies)
while eye diseases were the least treated using medicinal plants (1.5% of all remedies). Literature reports support
47% of the claims including proven anti-malarial, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory activity or similar
ethnomedical uses. Leaves were the most frequently used plant part (20 species) followed by roots (13 species)
while making of decoctions, pounding, squeezing, making infusions, burning and grinding to powder were the
most common methods used to prepare a majority of the therapies.
Conclusion: Therapeutic claims made on plants used in traditional medicine in Katoro ward of Bukoba district are
well supported by literature, with 47% of the claims having already been reported. This study further enhances the
validity of plants used in traditional medicine in this region as resources that can be relied on to provide effective,
accessible and affordable basic healthcare to the local communities. The plants documented also have the
potential of being used in drug development and on farm domestication initiatives.
