Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used as remedy for female infertility and menstrual disorder in southwestern Nigeria

Abstract

Background: In Sub-Saharan Africa, more than 30% of premenopausal women are affected with secondary infertility. Nigerian (Yoruba) women show a higher tendency towards exaggerated ovarian (PCOS) response to stimulation for assisted conception associated with a higher prevalence of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.

Objective: Identify and document medicinal plants traditionally used to treat female infertility and menstrual disorders among Yoruba ethnic group.

Materials and Methods: Data on medicinal plants traditionally used to manage menstrual disorders and female infertility were collected through interviews and Focus group discussions (FGDs).

Results: Twenty nine plant species belonging to 20 families were mentioned for management of infertility and menstrual disorder. Plant families mostly used were Euphorbiaceae (20%), Cucurbitaceae (15%), Bignoniaceae (10%), Apocynaceae (10%), Arecaceae (10%) and Solanaceae (10%).

Conclusion: This study provides documentation of medicinal plants used in the management and treatment of infertility and menstrual disorder in Southwestern Nigeria.

Keywords: Female infertility, Menstrual disorder, Medicinal plants, Bioactive constituents