Ethnobotanical study of Senegal custard apple (Annona senegalensis Pers.) in Dassa-Zoumé township, Republic of Benin

Abstract

Medicinal plants play an important role in the well-being of population in tropical countries. The objective of the study was to investigate the ethno botanical uses of custard apple (Annona senegalensis) in Benin. A survey carried out in Dassa-Zoumé township showed that population uses Annona senegalenis to treat many diseases including injury, wound, sting of bee or wasp, snake bite, sting of scorpion, malaria etc. Various organs of the plant (leaves, stems, roots, flowers and fruits) were involved in the preparation of many medical recipes. These recipes require different formulations (decoction, infusion, grinding, calcination, chewing, toothpick and trituration). A total of 65 uses of A. senegalensis were recorded in the township. Bathing of body, drinking, dressing in hot water, local application, scarification, instillation, washing of mouth were various modes of administering the medicines. Given the numerous therapeutic and nutritional values of this plant, it is important that the scientific world gives more attention to this shrub by domesticating it and characterizing the active principles present in various organs of this plant.