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Maroyi Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine 2013, 9:31

http://www.ethnobiomed.com/content/9/1/31 JOURNAL OF ETHNOBIOLOGY
AND ETHNOMEDICINE

REVIEW Open Access

Traditional use of medicinal plants in south-central

Zimbabwe: review and perspectives
Alfred Maroyi

Abstract
Background: Traditional medicine has remained as the most affordable and easily accessible source of treatment in
the primary healthcare system of resource poor communities in Zimbabwe. The local people have a long history of
traditional plant usage for medicinal purposes. Despite the increasing acceptance of traditional medicine in
Zimbabwe, this rich indigenous knowledge is not adequately documented. Documentation of plants used as
traditional medicines is needed so that the knowledge can be preserved and the utilized plants conserved and
used sustainably. The primary objective of this paper is to summarize information on traditional uses of medicinal
plants in south-central Zimbabwe, identifying research gaps and suggesting perspectives for future research.
Methods: This study is based on a review of the literature published in scientific journals, books, reports from
national, regional and international organizations, theses, conference papers and other grey materials.
Results: A total of 93 medicinal plant species representing 41 families and 77 genera are used in south-central
Zimbabwe. These plant species are used to treat 18 diseases and disorder categories, with the highest number of
species used for gastro-intestinal disorders, followed by sexually transmitted infections, cold, cough and sore throat
and gynaecological problems. Shrubs and trees (38% each) were the primary sources of medicinal plants, followed
by herbs (21%) and climbers (3%). The therapeutic claims made on medicinal plants documented in south-central
Zimbabwe are well supported by literature, with 82.8% of the plant species having similar applications in other
regions of Zimbabwe as well as other parts of the world and 89.2% having documented biological and
pharmacological properties.
Conclusion: This study illustrates the importance of traditional medicines in the treatment and management of
human diseases and ailments in south-central Zimbabwe. Traditional medicines still play an important role in
meeting basic health care of local communities in Zimbabwe.
Keywords: Conservation, Medicinal plants, South-central Zimbabwe, Traditional knowledge

Background more acceptable from a cultural and spiritual perspective

Out of more than 5000 plant species growing in [2]. Research by Hostettmann et al. [3] showed that the
Zimbabwe, about 10 percent of these have medicinal knowledge on the use of medicinal plants is enormous
properties and are used as traditional medicines [1]. but if this traditional knowledge is not rapidly re-
Traditional medicine has remained as the most afford- searched and recorded, indications are that it will be lost
able and easily accessible source of treatment in the pri- with succeeding generations. Despite the increasing ac-
mary healthcare system of resource poor communities ceptance of traditional medicine in Zimbabwe [1,4,5],
in Zimbabwe. About 80% of the population in develop- this rich indigenous knowledge on traditional remedies
ing countries use traditional medicines because they is not adequately documented. Documentation of plants
cannot afford the high cost of western pharmaceuticals used as traditional medicines in Zimbabwe is urgent so
and health care, and because traditional medicines are that the knowledge can be preserved, the utilized plants
are conserved and used sustainably. The current investiga-
tion therefore, attempts to fill some of the gaps in indigen-
Correspondence: alfred.maroyi@gmail.com
Department of Biodiversity, School of Molecular and Life Sciences, University ous knowledge related to the use of herbal medicines in
of Limpopo, Mankweng, South Africa

© 2013 Maroyi; licensee BioMed Central Ltd. This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative
Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and
reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Maroyi Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine 2013, 9:31 Page 2 of 18
http://www.ethnobiomed.com/content/9/1/31

south-central Zimbabwe (Figure 1) emphasizing their role plants”, “traditional medicines”, “Chivi or Mberengwa or
in basic human health care. The majority of the people in Shurugwi or Zaka or Zvishavane districts”, “Masvingo or
south-central Zimbabwe belong to the Karanga dialectical Midlands provinces” and “Zimbabwe”. References were
group. Most of the Karanga people live in Mberengwa, also identified by searching the library collections of the
Shurugwi and Zvishavane districts in the Midlands prov- National Herbarium and Botanic Gardens, Harare,
ince; and Chivi and Zaka districts in the Masvingo prov- Zimbabwe and University of Limpopo, South Africa.
ince [7], which are the study sites of the current study. Data collected from the literature included: use(s), mode
The Karanga people possess their own traditional know- of preparation and administration of the species. Litera-
ledge on medicinal plants that contributes to a broader ture search was also done to document the biological
understanding of medicinal plants in Zimbabwe. This in- and pharmacological activities of the documented plant
vestigation is part of a larger study [8] aimed at docu- species.
menting the ethnobotanical knowledge held by the
Karanga people in south-central Zimbabwe. Therefore, Medicinal plant diversity
this review was done to document traditional uses of me- This study recorded ninety three plant species as useful
dicinal plants in south-central Zimbabwe in order to pro- in traditionally managing various human diseases in
vide comprehensive documentation, identify research south-central Zimbabwe (Table 1). Of these, 79 species
gaps, and suggest perspectives for future research. are indigenous to Zimbabwe (84.9%), while 14 species are
exotic (15.1%), either naturalized as weeds or cultivated in
Methods home gardens as ornamentals or food plants. Dicotyledons
The traditional uses of medicinal plants in south-central were dominant with 87 plant species (93.5%), 5 monocoty-
Zimbabwe were collated. Available references or reports ledons (5.4%) and 1 fern (1.1%). These medicinal plants
on the plant species were consulted from published sci- were distributed among 41 families and 77 genera. The
entific journals, books, reports from national, regional majority of medicinal plants (71, 76.3%) used in south-
and international organizations, theses, conference pa- central Zimbabwe are from 19 families (Table 2). Plant
pers and other grey materials. Literature was searched families with the highest number of medicinal plants in
on international online databases such as ISI Web of south-central Zimbabwe were: Fabaceae sensu lato (11
Science, MEDLINE, Science Direct, Scopus and Google species), followed by Anacardiaceae (9 species), Euphorbi-
Scholar using specific search terms such as “medicinal aceae (7 species), Asteraceae, Ebenaceae and Tiliaceae

Figure 1 Geographical location of the study area, map modified from [6].
 http://www.ethnobiomed.com/content/9/1/31
Maroyi Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine 2013, 9:31
Table 1 Medicinal plants used in south-central Zimbabwe
Scientific name, Growth Vernacular Part(s) used and use(s) Similar uses in Zimbabwe Reported biological/pharmacological activities
family habit name (other countries#)
reported from literature
Anacardiaceae
Lannea discolor Tree Mugan’acha Fibre: extract drunk to reduce the duration Menorrhagia [1] and None found
(Sond.) Engl. of menstrual flow [9]. Roots: root extract infertility# [1,10]
used as eye drops for sore eyes [8]
Lannea edulis Shrub Mutsambatsi Roots: extract drunk as bilharzia Gonorrhoea [1] and bilharzias#, Antimicrobial activity; flavonoids and tannins [12]
(Sond.) Engl. (schistomiasis) and diarrhoea [9] and diarrhoea# [11]
gonorrhoea medicine [8]
*Mangifera indica L. Tree Mumango Bark: extract drunk as diarrhoea medicine [8] Diarrhoea and dysentery [13] Antibacterial [13,14]; anti-inflammatory,
antifungal, antidiabetic, antioxidant, antiviral
and antiparasitic [14] properties
Ozoroa insignis Del. Shrub Mubhedha Roots: extract drunk as diarrhoea and STIs Diarrhoea and venereal Antibacterial, anthelmintic [15,16], antimicrobial
medicine [8] diseases [1] [16] and cytotoxic [17] activities
Rhus longipes Engl. Tree Mufokosiana Roots: extract drunk as remedy for infertility Infertility in women and None found
in women and to dilate birth canal [8] to dilate birth canal [1]
Sclerocarya birrea Tree Mupfura Roots: steam directed into sore eyes [8] Sore eyes [1] Flavonoids, tannins and triterpenoids;
(A. Rich.) Hochst. antidiarrhoeal, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory,
antimicrobial and antioxidant [18] properties
Searsia dentata Shrub Mubikasadza Leaves: leaf sap taken as remedy for ulcers, None found Biflavonoids [19]
(Thunb.) F.A. Barkley diarrhoea and stomach problems [9]
Searsia pyroides Shrub Mufokosiana Roots: extract drunk as cough medicine [8] None found Biflavonoids [20]
(Burch.) Moffett
Searsia tenuinervis Shrub Mufokosiana Leaves: extract drunk as menorrhagia Menorrhagia [1] Antibacterial activity [21]
(Engl.) Moffet medicine [8]
Annonaceae
Annona stenophylla Shrub Muroro Roots: paste applied on the boils; extract Gonorrhoea, syphilis and Antioxidant activity [22]
Engl. & Diels drunk as chest pains and STI remedy; mixed snake repellent [1]
with roots of Securidaca longipedunculata
Fresen. and sprinkled around homestead
as snake repellent [8]
Apocynaceae
Carissa bispinosa Shrub Muruguru Roots: extract drunk as cough and None found Analgesic, antiviral and diuretic activities; lignans
(L.) Desf. ex Brenan diarrhoea medicine [8] and sesquiterpenes [23]
Carisa edulis Shrub Muruguru Roots: extract drunk as diarrhoea and Cough [1,24], chest pains Analgesic, antiviral and diuretic activities; lignans
(Forssk.) Vahl cough medicine [6] and pneumonia [1]; and and sesquiterpenes [23]
tuberculosis# [10]
*Catharanthus roseus Herb Chirindamatongo Roots: extract drunk as remedy for Diarrhoea#, dysentery# Alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins and

Page 3 of 18
(L.) G. Don stomach problems [9,25] and indigestion# [26] triterpenes; antidiarrheal [27] and antidiabetic
[28] activities
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Maroyi Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine 2013, 9:31
Table 1 Medicinal plants used in south-central Zimbabwe (Continued)
Asparagaceae
Asparagus africanus Climber Rukato Roots: extract drunk as diarrhoea and Aid in child birth# [29] Analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities [30]
Lam. pneumonia medicine and to dilate
birth canal [8]
Sansevieria aethiopica Herb Zvikonje Leaves: leaf sap squeezed into the Earache# [32] Antibacterial activity [33]
Thunb. painful ear [31]
Sansevieria hyacinthoides Herb Masavamhanda Leaves or rhizomes: leaf or rhizome sap Root used as baby Antibacterial, antioxidant [34] and
(L.) Druce given to child suffering from dehydration food# [10] anti-inflammatory [12] properties.
[31]. Leaves: Leaf macerate given to colicky
infant; leaves used as dressing on sprained
ankle [31]. Rhizome: rhizome added to
non-alcoholic beverage taken by pregnant
women to prepare the birth canal and
prevent delivery complications; warm
rhizome extract given to a person with
aching tooth to keep in mouth for up to two
minutes before spitting out the mixture [31].
Roots: extract drunk to dilate birth canal [9]
Asphodelaceae
Aloe greatheadii Herb Gavakava Leaves: extract drunk as constipation and Constipation and Alkaloids, phenolic compounds and
Schönland gonorrhoea medicine [8] gonorrhoea [1] antioxidant capacity [35]
Asteraceae
Brachylaena discolor DC. Herb Mupasa Leaves: leaves chewed and juice swallowed Enema to stop bleeding Antidiabetic activity [28]
as remedy for ulcers [9] of the stomach# [36]
Dicoma anomala Sond. Herb Chifumuro Bulb: extract drunk as remedy for Remedy for all disease Sesquiterpene [37]
stomach upset [9] (panacea) [1]
*Schkuhria pinnata Herb Ruhwahwa Whole plant: extract drunk as remedy for Stomach problems# [11] Antibacterial [38] and anti-diarrhoeal activity [11]
(Lam.) Kuntze ex Thell. stomach pains [9]
*Sonchus oleraceus L.; Herb Rurimirwemombe Leaves: extract drunk as remedy for Anti-diarrhoeal# and Alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols and saponins;
stomach problems [9] digestive purgative# [39] antioxidant and antibacterial [39] properties
Burseraceae
Commiphora marlothii Tree Mupepe Roots: extract drunk as STI medicine [9] None found Antibacterial activity [40]
Engl.
Celastraceae
Gymnosporia buxifolia Shrub Chizhuzhu Leaves: leaves chewed and sap swallowed Painful menstruation# [41] Antiplasmodial and anti-inflammatory activities [42]
(L.) Szyszyl. as remedy for abdominal pains [9]
Chrysobalanaceae
Parinari curatellifolia Tree Muchakata Roots: extract drunk as constipation Constipation [1] and Antibacterial [13,43] and antimicrobial [43]
Planch. ex Benth. medicine and teeth washed with root toothache# [1,10] activities; alkaloids, flavonoids, phenol, saponins,

Page 4 of 18
decoction as remedy for toothache [8] steroids, tannins and terpenes [43]
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Maroyi Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine 2013, 9:31
Table 1 Medicinal plants used in south-central Zimbabwe (Continued)
Clusiaceae
Garcinia buchananii Tree Mutunduru Bark: extract drunk to reduce birth canal [9]. Aphrodisiac and to Anthraquinones and cytotoxicity activity [44,45],
Baker Fruits: ripe fruits are eaten as aphrodisiac [9] reduce birth canal [1] phenolics, steroids and tannins [46]
Cucurbitaceae
Cucumis anguria L. Herb Muchacha Fruits: pieces of fruit left around Antifeedant [47] Larvicidal activity and triterpenoids [47]
homestead as snake repellent [8]
Cyperaceae
Coleochloa setifera Herb Rufuri Roots: root powder taken as a remedy None found None found
(Ridl.) Gilly for pneumonia [12]
Ebenaceae
Diospyros lycioides Desf. Shrub Musumadombo Roots: extract drunk as remedy for Infertility in women# [1,10] Antibacterial activity [48]; lupeol and ursolic acid
infertility in women [8] [49]
Diospyros mespiliformis Tree Musuma Roots: extract drunk as abdominal pains Body and heart pains [1] Antimicrobial activity; saponins, steroids,
Hochst. ex A.DC. medicine [8] tannins and triterpene [50]
Euclea crispa (Thunb.) Shrub Muvhinji Roots: extract drunk as cough medicine [8] Cough [1] Antibacterial activity [51]
Sond. ex Gürke
Euclea divinorum Hiern Shrub Mushangura Roots: extract drunk as diarrhoea Diarrhoea [1]; and troubled Antimicrobial activity [44]
medicine [8] and noisy stamach# [10]
Euphorbiaceae
Androstachys johnsonii Tree Musimbiti Roots: extract drunk as aphrodisiac [9] None found Antibacterial [52], antimicrobial and
Prain antifungal [53] activities
Bridelia cathartica Shrub Mutsvoritsvoto Roots: extract drunk as remedy for infertility Infertility in men [1] Anthocyanins, flavonoids and tannins [54];
G. Bertol. in men [8] antibacterial [54] and antimalarial [55] activities
Bridelia mollis Hutch. Shrub Mutuzvidzembwa Roots: extract drunk as cough medicine [8] None found None found
Flueggea virosa Shrub Mushagahuwe Roots: extract drunk as pneumonia Contraceptive, pneumonia Alkaloids, securinine and triterpenes; antifungal,
(Roxb. ex Willd.) Voigt medicine and drunk before sexual and snake antidote [1] antimalarial, antimicrobial and antioxidant
intercourse as a contraceptive; dried root activities [56-59]
powder applied to bitten part as snake
antidote and root powder applied on
wounds [8]
Macaranga capensis Tree Musvosve Roots: extract drunk as aphrodisiac[9] Male impotence# [60] Antibacterial activity [60]
(Baill.) Benth. ex Sim
*Ricinus communis L. Herb Mupfuta Roots: teeth washed with root decoction Sore eyes [1] and Anti-inflammatory, antiarthritic [61,62],
as remedy for toothache [8]. Seed: oil toothache# [1,10] anti-oxidant, antiulcer, antidiabetic,
applied on sore eyes [8] antifertility and antimicrobial [63] properties
Spirostachys africana Tree Munhiti Roots: root powder mixed with porridge None found Flavonoids and gallotannins [64], phenolic
Sond. as remedy for venereal infections [9] and antioxidant activity [65]

Page 5 of 18
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Maroyi Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine 2013, 9:31
Table 1 Medicinal plants used in south-central Zimbabwe (Continued)
Fabaceae sensu lato
Acacia karroo Hayne Tree Muvunga Root: extract drunk as convulsions Aphrodisiac, convulsions, Anti-inflammatory, analgesic [66], antibacterial
remedy [8]; aphrodisiac, gonorrhoea gonorrhoea and syphilis [1] [67] and antimicrobial [66] activities
and syphilis [9]
Albizia antunesiana Tree Muriranyenze Bark: extract drunk as constipation Aphrodisiac [1,24], Anthelmintic activity [15]
Harms remedy [8]. Leaves: extract drunk as gonorrhoea,
purgative remedy [8]. Roots: extract infertility in women and
drunk as aphrodisiac, diarrhoea, as purgative [1]
gonorrhoea and remedy for infertility
in women [8]
Brachystegia boehmii Tree Mupfuti Bark: extract drunk as STI medicine [8] None found Antibacterial activity [13]
Taub.
Cassia abbreviata Oliv. Shrub Muremberembe Roots: extract drunk as abortion, Abortion, aphrodisiac Anthraquinones, triterpenoids [68], antibacterial
aphrodisiac, constipation, diarrhoea constipation diarrhoea [55], antimalarial [69] and antiviral [70] activities
and gonorrhoea medicine [8] and gonorrhoea [1]
Dalbergia melanoxylon Shrub Mugwiti Leaves: dried leaves smoked as cigarette Bronchitis# and inflammation Antimicrobial activity [72]
Guill. & Perr. to treat asthma [9] in throat# [71]
Elephantorrhiza goetzei Shrub Ntorani Roots: extract drunk as abdominal pains, Abdominal pains [1,24], Anthelmintic activity [15] and stilbenes [73]
(Harms) Harms diarrhoea and gonorrhoea medicine; and bilharzias, diarrhoea
mixed with roots of Piliostigma thonningii and gonorrhoea [1]
(Schumach.) Milne-Redh. as bilharzia
(schistosomiasis) medicine [8]
Erythrina abyssinica Tree Mutiti Bark: extract drunk as backache medicine [8]. Backache and wounds in Antibacterial [74,75], antifungal [74] and
Lam. ex DC. Roots: wounds washed with root extract [8] mouth [1] cytotoxic activities [76]
Indigofera setiflora Baker Herb Ruvavashuro Roots: extract drunk as diarrhoea medicine [9] None found None found
Peltophorum africanum Shrub Muzeze Bark, leaves or root: extract drunk as Diarrhoea and toothache Antibacterial activity [52,77]
Sond. syphilis medicine [8]. Roots: extract drunk as [1], panacea [24] and
diarrhoea and STI medicine, root extract used venereal diseases# [1,10]
as eye drops for sore eyes and teeth washed
with root decoction as remedy for
toothache [8]
Piliostigma thonningii Tree Musekesa Bark, leaves or root: extract drunk as cough Cough and menorrhagia [1] Alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins and tannins;
(Schumach.) medicine [8]. Leaves:extract drunk as antibacterial [16], antimicrobial and
Milne-Redh. menorrhagia medicine [8]. Roots: mixed with antioxidant [78] activities
roots of Elephantorrhiza goetzei as bilharzia
(schistosomiasis) medicine [8]
Pterocarpus Tree Mubvamaropa Bark: extract dropped into ear as earache Infertility in women and Antibacterial and cytotoxicity activities [79]
angolensis DC. medicine, extract drunk as remedy for sore eyes [1]; and
menorrhagia [8]. Roots: extract drunk as menorrhagia# [1,10]
remedy for infertility in women [8].
Sap: dropped into sore eyes [8]

Page 6 of 18
Flacourtiaceae
Flacourtia indica Shrub Munhunguru Leaves: leaves browsed by mouth as Diarrhoea [1] Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial,
(Burm. f.) Merr. diarrhoea medicine [8] antioxidant and antimalarial activities [80]
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Maroyi Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine 2013, 9:31
Table 1 Medicinal plants used in south-central Zimbabwe (Continued)
Hypoxidaceae
Hypoxis obtusa Herb Nhindiri Bulb: bulb chewed and sap swallowed Abdominal pains [1] Hypoxoside [81] and obtusaside [82]
Ker Gawl. as remedy for abdominal pains [9]
Kirkiaceae
Kirkia acuminata Oliv. Tree Mubvumira Bark: extract drunk as diarrhoea, cholera, Diarrhoea and wounds [1] Antibacterial activity [61]
dysentery and constipation medicine [9].
Fruits: fruit juice applied to bitten part as
snake antidote and fruit juice applied
on wounds [8]
Lamiaceae
Hoslundia Herb Hwahwa hwe shiri Leaves: extract dropped into eyes as Cataract [1] Alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins and
opposita Vahl cataract medicine [8] triterpenes [83,84] and antimicrobial activity [85]
Leonotis leonurus Herb Mutodzvo Leaves: leaves chewed and sap swallowed Sores# and haemorrhoids# [84] Anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic and
(L.) R.Br. as remedy for ulcers [9] hepatoprotective activities [86]
Vitex payos Tree Mutsvubvu Leaves: leaves burnt and smoke inhaled None found Larvicidal activity [87]
(Lour.) Merr. as cough medicine [8,9]
Loganiaceae
Strychnos Tree Muzumwi Roots: extract drunk as abdominal pains, Abdominal pains and Antimalarial activity [88]
cocculoides Bak. aphrodisiac, gonorrhoea, infertility in men infertility [1]
and sore throat remedy [8]
Strychnos Tree Mukwakwa Roots: extract used as eye drops for None found None found
madagascariensis sore eyes [8]
Poir.
Strychnos spinosa Lam. Tree Mutamba Roots: extract drunk as remedy for Abdominal pains [1] Sterols and triterpenoids [89]
abdominal pains and gonorrhoea [8].
Fruits: extract drunk as remedy for
gonorrhoea and genital warts [9]
Malvaceae
Azanza garckeana Tree Mutohwe Roots: extract dropped into the ear as Earache# [90] Antimalarial activity [69]
(F. Hoffm.) Exell & Hillc. medicine for earache [8]
Meliaceae
Ekebergia benguelensis Tree Mudyavarungu Bark: extract drunk as remedy for infertility Dysmenorrhea and Stilbenes [91] and triperpenes [92]
Welw. ex C.DC. in men [8]. infertility in men [1]
Roots: extract drunk as dysmenorrhea
medicine [8]
Entandrophragma Tree Mubanana Fruits: burnt fruit peels mixed with None found Limonoids [93]
caudatum (Sprague) vaseline and applied
Sprague to area affected with genital warts [9]

Page 7 of 18
Moraceae
Ficus ingens Tree Mushavhi Roots: extract drunk as cough medicine [8] Fever# [94] Anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties [95]
(Miq.) Miq.
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Maroyi Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine 2013, 9:31
Table 1 Medicinal plants used in south-central Zimbabwe (Continued)
Ficus sur Forssk. Tree Muonde Roots: extract drunk as diarrhoea and Diarrhoea in infants [1] Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antimalarial
syphilis medicine [8] and anti-ulcer activities [96,97]
Ficus sycomorus L. Tree Muonde Roots: extract drunk as cough medicine [8] Tuberculosis#, cold# and Antibacterial activity [98], alkaloids, saponins
other chest problems# [10] and tannins [99]
Moringaceae
*Moringa oleifera Lour Shrub Moringa Leaves: extract drunk as diarrhoea Digestive disorders [100] Alkaloids and flavonoids, anti-inflammatory,
medicine [8]. Roots: teeth washed with root antioxidant, antimicrobial, antifertility and
decoction as remedy for toothache [8] anticancer [101] activities
Myrothamnaceae
Myrothamnus Shrub Rufandichimuka Leaves and twigs: leaves and twigs boiled Cold# and other chest Alkaloids, flavanoids, phenolics, saponins,
flabellifolius and drunk as remedy for cold [9] complaints# [1,10] steroids and tannins [102], antidiabetic
Welw. [103] and antimicrobial [104] activities
Myrtaceae
*Eucalyptus Tree Mugamutiri Leaves: extract drunk with Citrus limon fruits Sore throat# [105] Antiproliferative [106] and antimicrobial [107] activities
camaldulensis and Psidium guajava L. leaves as cough, flu
Dehnh and fever medicine [8]
*Psidium guajava L. Shrub Mugwavha Leaves: extract drunk with Citrus limon fruits Fever [1]; cough# [1,11,85] Anti-diarrhoeal [108,109], antibacterial [110,111],
and Eucalyptus camaldulensis leaves as cough, and diarrhoea# [11,85] narcotic [109] and antioxidant [112] properties
flu and fever medicine [8]; infusion of drunk
or taken as an enema for diarrhoea [9]
Syzygium cordatum Tree Mukute Bark: extract drunk as tuberculosis Cold# and fever# [10] Antibacterial [52] and antifungal [64] activities
Hochst. ex C. Krauss medicine [9]
Ochnaceae
Ochna pulchra Hook.f. Shrub Munimu Leaves: leaf sap taken as remedy for Diarrhoea [1] Antibacterial activity [113]
stomach problems [9]
Olacaceae
Ximenia americana L. Shrub Mutengeni Leaves: extract drunk as backache Abdominal pains# [114] Antibacterial [64] and antioxidant [114] activities
medicine [8]
Ximenia caffra Sond. Shrub Munhengeni Leaves: extract drunk as backache Diarrhoea and infertility [1]; Flavonoids, phenolic and tannins;
medicine [8]. Roots: extract drunk as and venereal diseases# [1,10] and antimicrobial activity [115]
aphrodisiac, diarrhoea, venereal diseases; root
powder applied on wounds [8]
Pedaliaceae
Dicerocaryum Herb Ruredzo Whole plant: plant foam inserted into To dilate birth canal [1] and Cytotoxic activity [116]
zanguebarium vagina to dilate birth canal [9] expulsion of placenta# [10]
(Klotzsch) Abels
Polygalaceae

Page 8 of 18
Securidaca Shrub Mufufu Roots: extract drunk as epilepsy medicine Epilepsy [1] and snake Analgesic, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycaemic
longepedunculata and mixed with roots of Annona stenophylla repellent [24] [117] and antimalarial [88] activities
Fresen. and sprinkled around homestead as
snake repellent [8]
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Maroyi Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine 2013, 9:31
Table 1 Medicinal plants used in south-central Zimbabwe (Continued)
Pteridaceae
Pellaea sp. Fern Mudziwebwe Leaves and roots: leaves and roots burnt None found None found
and smoke inhaled as remedy for chest
pains [9]
Rhamnaceae
Berchemia discolor Tree Nyii Roots: extract drunk as abdominal General body pains [1] Antimicrobial activity [118] and flavonoids [119]
(Klotzsch) Hemsl. pains medicine [8]
Ziziphus mucronata Tree Muchecheni Fruits and leaves: powder applied on Skin infections and wounds Anthelmintic [15] and antimicrobial [120] activities
Willd. boils [8]. Roots: extract drunk as abdominal [1]; body pains# and infertility
pains, infertility in women medicine and in women# [10]; boils#, sores
root and swellings# [11]
powder applied on wounds [8]
Rosaceae
*Prunus persica L. Tree Mupichisi Leaves: extract drunk as diarrhoea None found Antimicrobial, antioxidant [121]; anti-tumour promoter
medicine [22] and anti-Oketsu syndrome [122] effects
Rubiaceae
Crossopteryx febrifuga Shrub Mukomberwa Bark: added to porridge as remedy for Diarrhoea# and Alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, steroids, tannins
(Afzel. ex G. Don) diarrhoea and dysentery [9] dysentery# [123] and terpenoids [124], anti-inflammatory and
Benth. antimicrobial activities [125]
Vangueria infausta Tree Mudzvirungombe Roots: extract drunk as diarrhoea Diarrhoea [1] Flavonoids, antibacterial [126,127],
Burch. medicine [8] antimalarial [88] and antifungal [126] activities
Rutaceae
*Citrus limon Tree Mulemoni Fruit: extract of fruit, Eucalyptus Throat infections# Analgesic, intestinal mucosa protector
(L.) Burm. f. camaldulensis and Psidium guajava leaves and tonsil# [128] and antiseptic [128]
drunk as cough, flu and fever medicine [8]
Solanaceae
*Nicotiana tobacum L. Herb Fodya Leaves: snuff applied on wounds [8] Wounds [1] Cytotoxic activity [129] and steroidal glycosides
[130]
*Solanum incanum L. Shrub Nhundurwa Fruits: child bathed with fruit macerate Rash#, ringworm#, Saponins; antibacterial, cytotoxicity [16],
as remedy for scabies [9] skin infections# antioxidant and cytoprotective [132] activities
and warts# [131]
Tiliaceae
Corchorus tridens L. Herb Derere Roots: extract drunk as backache None found Flavonoids and microbial activity [133]
medicine [8]
Grewia bicolor Juss. Shrub Mutewa Roots: extract drunk as diarrhoea and Diarrhoea# [10] Alkaloids, triterpenoids and antibacterial activity [134]
gonorrhoea medicine [8]
Grewia flavescens Juss. Shrub Mubhubhunu Roots: extract drunk as menorrhagia Inducing labour#, Triterpenoids [101]
infertility# and

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medicine [8]
impotence# [10]
Grewia monticola Sond. Shrub Mutewa Diarrhoea [1] None found
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Maroyi Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine 2013, 9:31
Table 1 Medicinal plants used in south-central Zimbabwe (Continued)
Roots: extract drunk as diarrhoea
medicine [8]
Urticaceae
Pouzolzia mixta Solms Shrub Munanzwa Roots: extract instilled into the vagina to To dilate birth canal Antibacterial activity [52]
dilate birth canal; extract drunk as STI [1,24] and venereal
medicine and root powder applied diseases [1]
on wounds [8]
Verbenaceae
*Lantana camara L. Shrub Mbarambati Leaves: leaf sap applied on body parts Eye injuries# [10] Antibacterial [13] and antimalarial [88]
infected with ring worm [9] activities; flavonoids and triterpenes [135]
Lippia javanica Shrub Zimbani Leaves and twigs: boiled leaves and twigs Cold and cough [1,10,24] Antimicrobial activity [136]
(Burm.f.) Spreng. drunk as remedy for cough and cold [9]
Vitaceae
Ampelocissus africanus Climber Muzambiringa Roots: extract drunk as diarrhoea Stomach troubles# [137] Antibacterial activity [138]
(Lour.) Merr. medicine [8]
Ampelocissus obtusata Climber Muzambiringa Roots: extract drunk as diarrhoea Gastro-intestinal Antibacterial activity [138]
(Welw. ex Baker) Planch. medicine [8] complaints# [137]
Zingiberaceae
*Zingiber officinale Herb Tsangamidzi Roots: roots chewed and swallowed as Digestive disorders# [139] Antimicrobial [16], anti-inflammatory,
Roscoe remedy for stomach pains [9] immuno-modulatory and anti-emetic
[140] activities
An asterisk (*) indicates that the taxon is known or believed to be exotic to Zimbabwe and hatch (#) indicates similar use(s) in other countries reported from literature.

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Table 2 Families with the largest number of medicinal used to treat human ailments in south-central Zimbabwe.
plants (more than 2 species) in south-central Zimbabwe It is well recognized by conservationists that medicinal
Family Number of medicinal plants % plants primarily valued for their root parts and those
Fabaceae sensu lato 11 11.8 which are intensively harvested for their bark often tend
Anacardiaceae 9 9.7 to be the most threatened by over-exploitation [141].
Euphorbiaceae 7 9.5
Ailments and diseases treated and herbal preparation
Asteraceae 4 4.3
The majority of the plant species used (61.3%) had a single
Ebenaceae 4 4.3 therapeutic use, with 19 species (20.4%) used in the treat-
Tiliaceae 4 4.3 ment of two ailments, 6 species (6.5%) treating three ail-
Apocynaceae 3 3.2 ments, 5 species (5.4%) treating four ailments, 3 species
Asparagaceae 3 3.2 (3.2%) treating five ailments and Albizia antunesiana used
to treat six ailments (Table 1). A total of 18 medical condi-
Lamiaceae 3 3.2
tions were treated using remedies made from medicinal
Loganiaceae 3 3.2
plants (Figure 3). Gastro-intestinal disorders, sexually
Moraceae 3 3.2 transmitted infections, cold, cough and sore throat and gy-
Myrtaceae 3 3.2 naecological problems were treated with the highest num-
Meliaceae 2 2.2 ber of medicinal plant species (Figure 3). Gastro-intestinal
Olacaceae 2 2.2 disorders, particularly cholera, diarrhoea and dysentery
are a major concern not only in south-central Zimbabwe
Rhamnaceae 2 2.2
but the whole country and; in Mozambique as well, where
Rubiaceae 2 2.2
dysentery and cholera usually result in high mortality rate
Solanaceae 2 2.2 if not treated promptly [142]. Sexually transmitted infec-
Verbenaceae 2 2.2 tions are a major public health concern in developing
Vitaceae 2 2.2 countries with their transmission rate regarded as one of
the highest in the world [143]. Sexually transmitted infec-
tions are one of the most common reasons for people to
(4 species each). Fabaceae, Anacardiaceae and Euphorbi- use herbal medicines and visit traditional healers in
aceae families have the highest number of species used as Zimbabwe [1,4,8].
herbal medicines probably because these are large families Plant remedies were often utilized in the form of ex-
characterized by several species. The rest of the families tracts (76.3%), sap (11.8%) and powder (6.5%) (Table 1).
were represented by one species each (Table 1). The gen- Other preparation methods included paste, chewing the
era with highest number of species were Ficus, Grewia, raw plant and inhaling smoke or vapour generated by
Searsia and Strychnos with 3 species each. burning some of the medicinal plant species. Most of
the preparations (69.9%) were prescribed orally in warm
Growth habit and parts used water or soft porridge (Table 1). Herbal preparation
Trees and shrubs (38% each) are the primary sources of methods and dosage depend on the type of disease. Some
the medicinal plant species in south-central Zimbabwe, plants were boiled while others were applied directly in
followed by herbs (21%) and climbers (3%) (Figure 2A). fresh form. Some herbal medicines were applied topically,
Extensive use of trees and shrubs in south-central either as bath, massage or lotion. For example, the use of
Zimbabwe in preparation of herbal medicines might be burnt fruit peels of Entandrophragma caudatum which
linked to their availability throughout the year as they were mixed with vaseline and applied on genital areas af-
are relatively drought resistant and are not affected by fected with genital warts [9]. The herbal prescriptions
seasonal variations [8]. The plant parts used for making were usually given to patients until patients reported posi-
herbal preparations were the bark, bulbs, fibre, fruits, tive results.
leaves, rhizomes, roots, sap, seeds, twigs and whole Monotherapy preparations made from a single plant
plant. The roots were the most frequently used (61.3%), species were the most dominant (92.5%); 4.3% and 3.2%
followed by leaves (32.3%), bark (12.9%), fruits (9.7%), of the herbal concoctions were prepared from a combin-
sap (5.4%), bulbs, twigs and whole plant (2.2% each), ation of two and three species respectively. Those that
fibre, seeds and rhizomes (1.1% each) (Figure 2B). The involved the use of two species included mixing roots of
use of whole plant as remedy was administered for herb- Annona stenophylla and Securidaca longipedunculata as
aceous plant species (Table 1). However, harvesting of snake repellent [8]. Roots of Elephantorrhiza goetzei and
roots of herbaceous plants for medicinal purposes is not Piliostigma thonningii were used as remedy for bilharzia
sustainable as it threatens the survival of the same plants (schistosomiasis) [8]. Water extract of Eucalyptus
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Figure 2 Characteristics of the plants used as herbal medicines in south-central Zimbabwe. (A) Growth form habit represented in pie
diagram and (B) plant parts used represented in bar chart.

camaldulensis leaves, Citrus limon fruits and Psidium these active ingredients in herbal medicines is directly
guajava leaves was taken as a cure for cough, flu and linked to their ability to prevent or treat ailments. Ana-
fever [8]. The use of multiple therapies in traditional lysis of the biological and pharmacological activity data
medicine based on combining plants has recently been (Table 1) shows the wide variety of biological activity of
shown to increase the efficacy of the herbal medicine plants used as herbal medicines in south-central
[144]. According to Bussmann and Sharon [145], the use Zimbabwe; and the presence of these active ingredients
of more than one plant species to prepare a remedy for in utilized plants as herbal medicines corroborates the
ailments is attributed to the additive or synergistic ef- popular traditional knowledge and medicinal uses of the
fects that they could have during ailment treatment. documented plants. The identification of biologically ac-
tive compounds in herbal medicines needs to be
Literature based proof of biological and pharmacological interpreted in the light of the traditional uses of the
activities plants as well as herbal medicine preparation and dosage
Out of 93 medicinal plants used in south-central [146]. It is worth mentioning that most of these activ-
Zimbabwe, 83 species (89.2%) have proven biological ities, mainly the antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-
and pharmacological activities (Table 1). The presence of parasitic and analgesic properties; and the presence of

Figure 3 Major ailments and disease categories and plant species reported. Most species were reported in more than one ailment category.
Maroyi Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine 2013, 9:31 Page 13 of 18
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alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins and tannins confirm the other sexually transmitted diseases, infertility in women,
different popular applications of extracts obtained from painful and swollen legs, pneumonia, prevent abortion,
traditional medicines. sore eyes, sore throat, tonsillitis, tuberculosis and ulcers
The majority (82.8%) of the 93 plant species used as [147]. A bark infusion of Albizia antunesiana is taken to
traditional medicines in south-central Zimbabwe have treat constipation and applied externally to cuts; whereas
similar applications in other regions of Zimbabwe as crushed leaves are used as an enema for their purgative
well as other parts of the world (Table 1). The medicinal action and as a dressing to treat oedema of the legs
uses of 49 species (52.7%) are supported by reports of [147]. Previous research by Gelfand et al. [1] showed
similar uses elsewhere in Zimbabwe and 40 species (43%) wide use of Annona stenophylla in traditional medicine
have similar uses in the other parts of the world (Table 1). in Zimbabwe. Infusion of Annona stenophylla root or
Such similarities in the cross-cultural usage of the trad- bark is used to treat abdominal pains, boils, chest pains,
itional plant remedies are a strong indication of the bio- constipation, diarrhoea, dysmenorrhea, hiccoughs, oedema,
activity potential of the documented plant species. The sexually transmitted diseases and sprains [1]. All plant
following 16 medicinal species (17.2%) appear not to be parts of Cassia abbreviata are used in tropical Africa to
popular for the ethno medicinal uses documented in treat gastro-intestinal disorders, bilharzia, diarrhoea, dys-
Zimbabwe: Androstachys johnsonii (aphrodisiac), Brachy- menorrhea, eye problems, haematuria, headache, malaria,
stegia boehmii (sexually transmitted infections), Bridelia pneumonia, snakebites, toothache and venereal diseases
mollis (cough), Carissa bispinosa (cough and diarrhoea), [68]. Decoction of all plant parts of Cassia abbreviata are
Coleochloa setifera (pneumonia), Commiphora marlothii used as aphrodisiac, abortifacient, purgative, tonic and
(sexually transmitted infections), Corchorus tridens (back- vermifuge [68]. Root infusion of Elephantorrhiza goetzei is
ache), Entandrophragma caudatum (genital warts), widely used in Zimbabwe as remedy for abdominal pains,
Indigofera setiflora (diarrhoea), Pellaea sp. (chest pains), backache, bilharzia, constipation, depressed fontenelle,
Prunus persica (diarrhoea), Searsia dentata (ulcers, diar- diarrhoea and gonorrhea [1]. Flueggea virosa is an im-
rhoea and stomach problems), Searsia pyroides (cough), portant medicinal plant in tropical Africa, used for the
Spirostachys africana (venereal infections), Strychnos treatment of a wide variety of ailments, alone or in com-
madagascariensis (sore eyes) and Vitex payos (cough) bination with other plants. All plant parts of Flueggea
(Table 1). These findings of new ethno medicinal plant virosa are used to treat frigidity, liver, bile, kidney, tes-
uses in south-central Zimbabwe shows the importance ticular inflammation, sterility, urinary and venereal dis-
of the documentation of such traditional indigenous eases [56]. All plant parts of Kirkia acuminata are used
knowledge. Some of these species can therefore be in traditional medicine in Zimbabwe as herbal medicine
targeted for phytochemical and pharmacological studies for abdominal pains, antidote, cough, emetic and
with the aim of identifying active ingredients contained wounds [1]. The bark and root extracts of Peltophorum
by such plants resulting in them having unique thera- africanum are traditionally used in southern Africa to
peutic uses. treat acute and chronic pains, boosting resistance to
This review showed substantial commonality in the diseases, depression, diarrhoea, dysentery, infertility,
general use of medicinal plants in south-central intestinal parasites and wounds [84]. The bark of
Zimbabwe, the other regions of Zimbabwe and the rest Pterocarpus angolensis is widely used in tropical Africa
of the world. For example, ten plant species used to treat as an astringent to treat diarrhoea, heavy menstruation,
at least four ailments in south-central Zimbabwe include nose bleeding, headache, stomachache, schistosomiasis,
Albizia antunesiana (six ailments), Annona stenophylla sores and skin problems [148]. Leaves, rhizomes and
(four ailments), Cassia abbreviata (five ailments), roots of Sansevieria hyacinthoides are widely used in
Elephantorrhiza goetzei (four ailments), Flueggea virosa tropical Africa to treat ear infections, haemorrhoids, in-
(four ailments), Kirkia acuminata (five ailments), testinal worms, measles, prevention of miscarriage,
Peltophorum africanum (four ailments), Pterocarpus sexually transmitted infections, stomach disorders,
angolensis (four ailments), Sansevieria hyacinthoides toothache and ulcers [31]. All plant parts of Strychnos
(five ailments), Strychnos cocculoides (five ailments) and cocculoides are widely used in Zimbabwe to treat ab-
Ziziphus mucronata (four ailments) (Table 1). With the dominal pains, amenorrhoea, cough, diarrhoea, gonor-
exception of Sansevieria hyacinthoides, the other nine rhea, hydrocele, infertility, sore eyes and sore throat [1].
species have been documented by Gelfand et al. [1] as Medicines obtained from infusion of the roots, bark,
valuable medicinal plants in most regions of Zimbabwe leaves and/or fruits of Ziziphus mucronata are used to
with at least six medicinal applications each. Literature treat bilharzia, boils, chronic cough, depressed fonta-
search showed that the roots of Albizia antunesiana are nelle, diarrhoea, dysmenorrhoea, infertility in women,
widely used in tropical Africa to treat abdominal pains, menorrhagia, oedema, pneumonia, snake bite, tooth-
cuts, depressed fontanelle in infants, gonorrhoea and ache, venereal diseases and wounds [1].
Maroyi Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine 2013, 9:31 Page 14 of 18
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Future research and perspectives traditional knowledge. For example, many of the con-
This review showed that local people in south-central ventional drugs available on the market today have a
Zimbabwe rely on traditional medicines to treat a wide long history of use as traditional medicines, among them
spectrum of human ailments and are knowledgeable are aspirin, opium and quinine. While south-central
about the identities and applications of medicinal plants. Zimbabwe is endowed with a strong culture of herbal
Many people in south-central Zimbabwe are still medicine usage for primary health care, there is need to
dependent on medicinal plants, at least for the treatment standardize the drug preparation, dosage and route of
of basic human ailments like cold, cough, diarrhoea, administration. Validating the correlations of the ethno
fever, skin infections, sexually transmitted infections, medicinal uses, bioactive substances, biological and
sore eyes and tooth infections. Data collected in the pharmacological effects is of special importance and is
present review illustrates that gastro-intestinal disorders still the primary task for future research. Efforts are also
and sexually transmitted infections are treated with the needed to investigate the physiological and biochemical
highest number of medicinal plant species. These functions demonstrated by these species, identifying the
findings correlate strongly with observations made by individual bioactive natural products and illustrate their
Ribeiro et al. [142] that cholera, diarrhoea and dysentery mechanisms of action.
are a major concern in Mozambique and southern Like most African countries, Zimbabwe is an import-
Africa as well as findings made by Van Vuuren and ant repository of medicinal plants usage in primary
Naidoo [143] that sexually transmitted infections are a healthcare. This is reflected in the great diversity of
major public health concern in developing countries. plants used for medicinal purposes in south-central
Reports of similar medicinal applications of the docu- Zimbabwe as well as in the wide range of their applica-
mented plants in south-central Zimbabwe, other regions tions and associated traditional medicine procedures.
of Zimbabwe and the rest of the world indicate that There is a growing upsurge in demand for traditional
these species are valuable sources of ethnomedicines. medicines in Zimbabwe for various human ailments. As
This comparative analysis strengthens the firm belief demand for medicinal plants continue to accelerate,
that traditional indigenous knowledge represent not awareness creation should be made among local com-
only an important heritage, developed over the centur- munities to ensure sustainable use and conservation of
ies, but also considerable mass of data that should be the medicinal plants. A collaborative approach for sus-
exploited in order to provide new and useful knowledge tainable use, conservation and management of medicinal
on plant resources. It is therefore, necessary to preserve plants should be put into place and involve all stake-
this indigenous knowledge on traditional medicines by holders. Communities in south-central Zimbabwe
proper documentation, identification of plant species should be actively involved in plant resource manage-
used, herbal preparation and dosage. This inventory will ment as they depend on these natural resources for their
assist future workers on the selection of herbal plants to primary healthcare needs. It is hoped that this will strike
evaluate for phytochemical safety and pharmaceutical a balance between meeting their health needs and wise
efficacy. There is also need for more research on the ac- use of plant resources to ensure sustainable develop-
tive compounds of these herbal medicines, some of ment. The most serious threats to medicinal plants, like
which have already shown interesting biological and any other forms of biodiversity are habitat loss and frag-
pharmacological activities as shown in Table 1. There is mentation, climate change and invasive species. It is not
need to establish the link between the biological activity known whether over-exploitation of medicinal plants is
and particular compounds responsible for the wide use an issue in south-central Zimbabwe. However, future
of these medicinal plants. The documented indigenous studies in south-central Zimbabwe should focus on how
knowledge in south-central Zimbabwe and available sci- local communities use and manage medicinal plants.
entific literature strongly suggests that at least some of Such studies will help in understanding how local com-
the plants used as herbal medicines can be potential munities relate to the plant resources that they use as
sources of newer drugs. medicines.
At the present moment, phytochemistry and pharma-
cological analysis of traditional medicines occupy a key Competing interests
The author declares that he has no competing interests.
position in medicinal plant research and indigenous know-
ledge systems. Sharing of such knowledge is crucial for Authors’ contributions
maintaining options for the use of traditional medicines, AM conceptualized the study and wrote the manuscript. The author read
particularly as use of alternative medicine is growing be- and approved the final manuscript.
cause of its moderate costs and increasing faith in herbal
Acknowledgements
medicines. Significant levels of global knowledge on con- The author would like to thank four anonymous reviewers for their
ventional pharmaceuticals originated from indigenous constructive comments.
Maroyi Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine 2013, 9:31 Page 15 of 18
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doi:10.1186/1746-4269-9-31
Cite this article as: Maroyi: Traditional use of medicinal plants in
south-central Zimbabwe: review and perspectives. Journal of
Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine 2013 9:31.

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