2025, Vol. 13, Issue 2, Part A

author(s)
Makemteu Junelle, Ewang Ntoko Dyland, Tajeukem Vice Clotexe, Ngouana Vincent, Yossa Nzeuwa Irma Belinda, Nana Piapleu Wilfrid Gautier, Ngadjui Esther and Noumi Emmanuel

abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis refers to inflammation of the vulva and vagina of the female reproductive system. It is mainly caused by the fungus Candida albicans and slightly by Candida glabrata. All women experience this infection at least once in their lives. The emergence of resistance to different classes of antimicrobials, associated with side effects and poor accessibility to antimicrobial use, as well as inadequate sex education, is a major problem in the increase in vulvovaginal candidiasis in Bangem.The aim of this study was to collect the medicinal plants used to treat vulvovaginal candidiasis in Bangem. To this end, an ethnobotanical survey was conducted using a descriptive cross-sectional study over a period of one month in the locality of Bangem. The study population consisted of women living in Bangem, the inclusion criteria being participants who had been affected by vulvovaginal candidiasis and traditional medicine practitioners with at least five years' experience. Information about the participants' clinical history of vulvovaginal candidiasis and the medicinal plants and recipes used for its treatment by traditional practitioners were recorded.Application of the above methods enabled us to observe that 48% of participants suffering from vulvovaginal candidiasis consulted health professionals. 43.2% of women with the condition used medicinal plants for treatment. 12 of the traditional practitioners interviewed were involved in the management of this infection. The results showed that vulvovaginal candidiasis affects individuals in this community. In addition, a variety of medicinal plants and recipes used in Bangem locality to manage vulvovaginal candidiasis were recorded and traditional medicine practitioners were well involved in the management of these infections.