Ethno-botanical study of the African star apple (Chrysophyllum albidum G. Don) in the Southern Benin (West Africa)

Abstract

BackgroundIn addition to plant species biology and ecology, understanding the folk knowledge systems related to the use of plant species and how this knowledge system influences the conservation of plant species is an important issue in the implementation of sustainable strategies of biodiversity conservation programs. This study aimed at providing information on the use and local knowledge variation on Chrysophyllum albidum G. Don a multipurpose tree species widely used in southern Benin.MethodsData was collected through 210 structured interviews. Informants were randomly selected from ten villages. The fidelity level and use value of different plant parts of C. albidum were estimated. The variation in ethnobotanical knowledge was assessed by comparing the use value between ethnic, gender and age groups. In order to assess the use pattern of the different plant parts in folk medicine, a correspondence analysis was carried out on the frequency citation of plant parts.ResultsFour categories of use (food, medicine, firewood and timber) were recorded for C. albidum. With respect to the different plant parts, the fleshy pulp of the African star apple fruit showed high consensus degree as food among the informants. Fifteen diseases were reported to be treated by the different parts of C. albidum in the region. Correspondence analysis revealed the specificity of each part in disease treatment. There was no significant difference among ethnic groups regarding the ethno-botanical use value of C. albidum. However, significant difference existed between genders and among age groups regarding the knowledge of the medical properties of this species.ConclusionsC. albidum is well integrated in the traditional agroforestry system of the southern Benin. Despite its multipurpose character, this species remains underutilized in the region. Considering the current threat of habitat degradation, action is needed in order to ensure the long term survival of the species and local communities’ livelihoods.

Ethnobotanical knowledge on indigenous fruits in Ohangwena and Oshikoto regions in Northern Namibia

“…Various studies have reported on the ethnobotanical uses of indigenous fruits such as ackee ( Blighia sapida K.D. Koenig) in the treatment of fever, burns, anemia, vomiting, malaria, eye problems and snakebite [15], Marula ( Sclerocarya birrea ) in treating malaria, stomach-ache, diarrheoa, haemorrhoids cough and diabetes [20] and African star apple ( Chrysophyllum albidum G. Don) in the treatment of malaria, anaemia, ulcer, haemorrhoids, smallpox, asthma, cough, dental decay, yellow fever and avitaminosis [16]. Many of the plants based prescriptions by traditional healers or knowledge holders can be considered as general health tonics which can be used to treat general weakness and unspecified ailments [26].…”

“…Indigenous fruit trees have been given only limited attention, both in research and development, though they are important in the diet [10]. These indigenous fruit trees play important roles in the lives of rural peoples in Namibia [11], Botswana [12], Zimbabwe [13], Ghana [14], Benin [15,16], and Ethiopia [17,18]. The consumption of indigenous fruits in Ohangwena and Oshikoto forms a daily life practice and it is gaining an increasing interest.…”

Influence des changements climatiques sur la distribution géographique de <i>Chrysophyllum albidum</i> G. Don (Sapotaceae) au Benin

“…La plus grande contrainte quand à la conservation reste les modes d'utilisation des terres. Comme l'a souligné Houessou et al (2012), la regression de Chrysophyllum albidum au Sud du Bénin est liée en grande partie à la destruction de l'habitat naturel de l'espèce qui se retrouve aujourd'hui confiné dans les systèmes agroforestiers suite à l'urbanisation de plus en plus accélérée de cette partie du Bénin qui est le corollaire d'une croissance démographique galapante. De plus, la dynamique actuelle d'occupation des terres dans le secteur d'étude laisse déjà présager une régression des milieux naturels (vestige de forêt par exemple) au détriment des habitats (Oloukoi, 2006).…”

Phenolic profiling and in vitro antioxidant, anticholinesterase, and antimonoamine oxidase properties of aqueous extract of African star apple (Chrysophyllum albidum) fruit parts

“…Apart from the fruit being consumed widely among Nigerians especially in the South‐western region, other parts of the plant have been reported useful in traditional medicine. Houessou, Toussaint, François, Gbesso Lisette, and Anagonou () reported the multipurpose nature of C. albidum as follows; its fleshy fruits are widely consumed and the different plant parts are used in folk medicine to treat several diseases and disorders and the fruits contribute to improving health, nutrition, food security, and income of the local communities. Amusa, Ashaye, and Oladapo () pointed out that across Nigeria, it is known by several local names and is generally regarded as a plant with diverse ethno‐medicinal uses.…”