Ethnobotanical study of sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) and mango (Mangifera indica L.) varieties in Nigeria

Abstract

Background: This study was carried out to explore the indigenous traditional knowledge about the two horticultural species and their uses in seven major sweet orange and mango-producing states in Benue, Kaduna, Bauchi, Plateau, Cross River, Osun, and Oyo states. Methods: The ethnobotanical data were collected using questionnaires and extensive conversation with 493 respondents grouped into 23 ethnic groups. A descriptive statistical method was used in the analysis of the collected data. Results: Thirty-four mango varieties and one orange variety were identified in the local communities surveyed through a multi-stage sampling procedure, indicating a genetic diversity of mango varieties. The results also showed that among the farmers, 68% were men and 30% were women. Forty-eight percent of respondents had more years of experience in fruit farming. Among the farmers, 37% had 6 to 10 acres of mango crop and sweet orange varieties. Mango and sweet orange were primarily cultivated in mixed cropping and monoculture farming systems. Some farmers produced sweet orange varieties and mango varieties in cultural associations. The harvested mango and sweet orange fruits, leaves, and barks were mainly used for commercial, healing, and occult consumption. Informants recognized that the mango fruit, leaves and barks have been effective in treating blood pressure, diabetes I and II, malignant hypertension, malaria, typhoid, increased immune system, preventing blindness, and ringworms. Conclusion: We documented farmers’ indigenous traditional knowledge on the utilization of the two horticultural species, the methods of processing, administration, and ailments treated, and recorded the different mango species produced in Nigeria. Keywords: Biodiversity, curing, ethnobotany, fruit tree parts, herbal medicine