Medicinal plant parts and practices used by communities around the Miombo woodlands of Urumwa, Tanzania

Abstract

A study to document medicinal plants parts and practices in relation to sustainable use was performed in communities around the Miombo woodland of Urumwa in Tanzania. Data collection was based on semi-structured interviews and discussion with key stakeholders. G-tests were used to ascertain differences in medicinal plants practices between women and men. Roots were the commonly used parts for medicine followed by barks. In practice, boiling and grinding were the preferred methods for preparing remedies. Remedies are admistered orally in decoctions form with lack of standardized dosages. Medicinal plants are collected from the reserve using both root digging and bark stripping methods. Local communities need sensitization through trainings on various aspects of medicinal plants practices especially issues of sustainable harvesting methods, simple processing, domestication and the importance of standardized dosages so as to improve work performance, ensure resource sustainability and contribute to development of the primary health care system in Tanzania.   Key words: Medicinal plants, practices, sustainability, Miombo woodlands, Tanzania.