Ethnobotanical Knowledge of Jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) in Benin

ABSTRACT

Jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) is an indigenous leafy vegetable which leaves are very rich in amino acid and essential minerals and they form part of the meals of people of Asia, Middle East and parts of Africa. The plant is also used as a medicine and source of income for local communities. The aim of this study is to highlight the ethnobotanical importance of Corchorus olitorius L. in Benin. To contribute to the enhancement of C. olitorius, 14 localities of Benin were visited and 129 people were interviewed, during the investigation. Data were collected about social and phytomedicinal uses of jute. These investigations have led to the understanding that C. olitorius is cultivated in all localities of Benin by both women (53.40%) and men (46.60%). The plant has a vernacular name in each local dialect but the term '' Ninuwi '' in the '' Fon '' language is the most used (33%). On the ethnomedicinal plan, it is used in the treatment of several pathologies such as malaria, typhoid fever, heart disease, infantile malnutrition, etc. Various parts of the plant are used leaves, roots, leafy stems and seeds, to prepare several drug recipes. Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA) followed by Ascending Hierarchical Classification (AHC) revealed that the organs of the plant that are used as medicine vary from one ethnic group to another and that it is the aerial organs of the plant that are most often exploited as a drug. Decoction (92.59%) and maceration are the only ways of preparation listed in this survey. This survey revealed the importance of the jute on ethno medicinal, culinary and social plan.