Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used as remedies for benign prostatic hyperplasia in Sokoto North Western Nigeria

ABSTRACT

Background: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) represents one of the most prevalent urological disorders among older men. Medicinal plants have been used since antiquity in treating various types of human illnesses, including prostatic diseases. Despite the plethora of published ethnobotanical surveys on Nigerian medicinal plants for treating various diseases, there is a paucity of such research in the country with respect to botanical agents used in treating BPH. Aims and Objectives: The present study is aimed at obtaining ethnobotanical information regarding the use of herbs by the residents of Sokoto metropolis in the treatment of BPH. Materials and Methods: After permission from departmental ethics committee, an ethnobotanical survey was conducted on medicinal plants utilised for the treatment of prostatic hyperplasia in Sokoto state, North Western Nigeria using semistructured oral interviews. Results: Findings from this survey showed a total of 44 plant species belonging to 22 families. Among the species, Cassia sieberiana DC., Detarium microcarpum Guill. and Perr. and Lawsonia inermis L. were the most commonly utilised. The part most commonly used for BPH are the stembark, followed by the roots. Seeds, leaves, and bulbs were found to be infrequently used. Irrespective of the plant parts used water was the most frequently employed medium of extraction. Though less popular, fermented milk, fermented milk-millet mixture, and a traditional cereal-based beverage were also employed. The most common modes of preparation were decoctions and infusions, while oral was the main route of administration. Conclusion: This survey documented 44 plant species used traditionally in Sokoto metropolis as a remedy for BPH. Further studies are recommended to confirm the efficacy and evaluate the mechanisms of action of standardized formulations of the herbal recipes individually and in combination.