Ethnobotanical documentation and conservation assessment of medicinal plants in the Bojanala District, North-West Province, South Africa

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Bojanala District in North-West Province of South Africa is home to a diverse array of plant species, many of which are known for their medicinal properties. Despite their historical use, the pharmacological properties of these plants remain largely unexplored. The current study aimed to explore the phytomedicinal practices in Bojanala District by documenting medicinal plants and the associated indigenous knowledge. METHODS: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted across six communities within the district between October 2024 and March 2025. Data were collected from 37 indigenous knowledge holders via face-to-face interviews using semi-structured questionnaires. The study followed purposive and snowball sampling methods. Data was then analyzed using ethnobotanical indices including Use Value (UV), Fidelity Level (FL), and Plant Part Value (PPV). RESULTS: A total of 51 plant species from 28 families were documented, with Asteraceae (7 species) and Fabaceae (6 species) most represented. The most cited species were Artemisia afra (UV = 1.108), Dicoma anomala (0.622), Siphonochilus aethiopicus (0.459), Drimia sanguinea (0.459), and Hypoxis hemerocallidea (0.405). Twenty species, including Artemisia afra and Bidens pilosa, had an FL of 100%. Leaves (PPV = 0.329), roots (0.237), and bark (0.118) were the most used parts, primarily prepared as decoctions (54%). For example, Musculoskeletal conditions were treated with 20 species. Although 63% of species are Least Concern, some are declining due to overharvesting, trade, and habitat loss. CONCLUSION: Bojanala District retains extensive indigenous knowledge of medicinal plants, crucial for primary healthcare. Given population declines in some species, continuous monitoring, sustainable harvesting, and pharmacological validation of key species are recommended to support traditional use and guide the development of plant-based therapeutics.