2020, Vol. 8, Issue 3, Part A

author(s)
Nyamwamu NC, Okari OJ and Gisesa WNO

abstract
An ethnomedical survey of plants used by Abagusii traditional healers of South West Kenya in the treatment of digestive system disorders and other inflammatory conditions was carried out and 26 plant species representing 18 families were botanically identified. It was found that in this ethnic group there were a great variety of healing practices, for example, steam inhalation techniques, fumigations like incense, blood-letting, hydrotherapy and many other beliefs. This study also revealed that the Abagusii healers have an extensive knowledge of their flora. This study also revealed that there is a rapid disappearance of many indigenous herbal medicinal plants, hence the need for conservation measures to be taken.