Ethnosurvey of Medicinal Plants Used in Treatment of Diabetes by the People of Nsukka, South Eastern-Nigeria

Introduction: Diabetes Mellitus is a widely prevailing Disease condition. Prior to the advancement of synthetic medicine, local remedies have been used in different parts of the world for the management of this disease. This study aims to identify the plants used by the people of Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State, Nigeria in the management of diabetes, and document all relevant information on them.

Methodology: A survey was conducted using semi-structured and personal oral interview methods. Consent was obtained from a total of 130 respondents, (women and men) who were interviewed on the plants used in the management of diabetes in the local government area. Available literature was searched for information on the identified plants.

Results: The study revealed 41 plant species belonging to 29 families are commonly used for treatment of diabetes in Nsukka LGA. Annonaceae, Liliaceae and Rubiaceae were the families most represented, with 3 species each. The leaves of the plant were mostly used (37.7%), and Decoction was the main mode of preparation (58.5%).

Conclusion: The forests and bushes of Nsukka Local Government Area, South Eastern-Nigeria is habitat to more than 40 plants belonging to 29 families that are used in ethnomedicinal practice as anti-diabetic agents. The plants have medicinal (including antidiabetic) uses in other places. Some of these plants have been scientifically evaluated for phytochemical composition and pharmacologically screened for anti-diabetic, and other activities.