Ethnobotanical study of food plants used in traditional medicine in the municipality of Quitexe, Angola

Abstract

Plants, particularly edible species, are endowed with both nutritional and medicinal properties which, when properly harnessed, can contribute significantly to disease prevention, treatment, and the overall improvement of human health and well-being. This study explores the traditional knowledge and practices of local communities in the municipality of Quitexe, Angola, focusing on the use of edible plant species believed to possess therapeutic attributes. The primary objective was to document plant species with nutritional and medicinal potential. An ethnobotanical survey was conducted between September 2023 and April 2024 among 287 local inhabitants, using semi-structured questionnaires to collect qualitative and quantitative data. A total of 57 plant species were identified, distributed across 30 botanical families. The Fabaceae family was the most represented, accounting for 7 species, while leaves were the most commonly used plant parts (43.62%). The predominant method of preparation was decoction (24.32%), and the primary route of administration was oral (77.78%). Among the various health conditions treated with these plants, anemia was the most frequently cited ailment (11.97%). The results provide a valuable repository of local knowledge regarding plant-based nutritional and therapeutic resources. This foundational database has the potential to guide future investigations in phytochemistry, pharmacognosy, and biomedical research, supporting the development of plant-based products adapted to modern health and dietary practices. We argue that the sustainable and scientifically informed use of plant resources can play a vital role in integrating traditional remedies into contemporary healthcare systems, dietary practices, and nutritional supplementation strategies.