Ethnobotany of Elaeis guineensis Jacq. and its importance in the household economy of the Ikale and Ilaje of Ondo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: African oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.), a perennial crop that originated from Tropical rainforest of West Africa, is one of the most important economic oil crops in Nigeria providing income for rural and semi-urban folks. This study described the ethnobotany of the plant and evaluated the extent to which it contributes to the livelihood strategies of the Ikale and Ilaje speaking people of Ondo State, Nigeria. Methods: Interviews were conducted in the local language and questionnaires were administered to willing respondents. Photographs of tools/machines used in the production of palm oil and allied products were taken. Drawings of the tools were generated on site. Results: The plant is the principal source of palm oil. Major processing tools of palm oil include cracker, presser, digester, and boiling trough. Other products that are derived from oil palm parts are palm kernel oil, kernel meat (for livestock feed), kernel shells (for fuel), palm wine, broom, fish trap, and traditional soap. All these products are made using indigenous methods. They feature in medicinal preparations, traditional ceremonies and are important household commodities. Conclusions: The products derived from oil palm tree serve as means of livelihood in the study communities and are local resources used in everyday activities of the people. The indigenous production methods observed further emphasize the role these products play in the economy of oil palm product makers and sellers. Sustainable tapping of palm wine should be encouraged in order to derive maximum benefits from oil palm tree. Keywords: Ethnobotany, Economic Botany, African Oil Palm, Ondo State, Nigeria

Anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities of methanolic extract of Elaeis guineensis Jacq. leaves (Arecaceae) and its fractions

“…guineensis Jacq. is a plant originated from tropical rainforest of West Africa (Erinoso et al, 2020). In traditional medicine, it is used as natural remedy against several pathologies (Da Silveira Agostini-Costa, 2018).…”

“…Elaeis guineensis (Arecaceae) is a perennial, arborescent, monocotyledonous plant distributed over humid tropical areas (Yehouessi et al, 2019). It is a plant originated from tropical rainforest of West Africa (Erinoso et al, 2020). For centuries, it has been a source of food and a natural remedy against several pathologies (Da Silveira Agostini-Costa, 2018).…”

Comparative Analysis of Bunch Weight and Fruit-to-Bunch Ratio Between Dura and Tenera Oil Palm Varieties

“…Previous study emphasizes the crucial differences in oil content and productivity between these varieties, underscoring their economic and environmental impacts [1][2]. This distinction is particularly important as the industry not only caters to a large portion of the global edible oil market but also influences the livelihoods of millions in the developing world [3]. Therefore, understanding the nuances between these types is essential for optimizing cultivation and ensuring sustainable agricultural practices.…”