Diversity of local knowledge on use of wild food and medicinal plants in communities around five biodiversity hotspots in Zimbabwe

This study documented use of wild food and medicinal plants in areas around five biodiversity hot spots in Zimbabwe. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions in representative communities. About 89 wild food plants were used by the communities. Trees, shrubs, tubers/herbs, lianas/climbers and succulents constituted 65%, 11%, 12%, 8% and 4% respectively. Fruits were mostly harvested (52%) then leaves (28%), and others (roots/rhizomes/tubers, sap and fibres) (20%). Fruits were commonly consumed raw (96%) whilst others are processed into juices (4%), mostly collected by women and children. Fruits ofAdansonia digitataL.,Vangueria infaustaBurch.,Uapacca kirkianaMull. Arg.,Berchemia discolour/zeyheri(Klotzsch) Hemsl.,Vitex donianaSweet and leaves ofA. digitatawere most preferred plant species because of their taste and availability. However, some fruits such asVitexspp. andU. kirkianacaused constipation and diahorrea respectively if consumed in excess. About 149 medicinal plant species belonging to 115 genera and 61 families were used for treating about 32 diseases and disorders. These were dominated by families; Fabaceae(16%), Meliaceae(5%), Apocenaceae(3%), Anacadaceae(3%) and Solanaceae (4%). About 45, 30, 25, 23, 13 species treat abdominal pains, toothache, women and gynaecological issues, sexually transmitted diseases and paediatric remedies respectively. Other species are used as aphrodisiacs (4) and treatment of cancer (4). Leaves (28%), roots(27%) bark(24%) and fruits(12%) were main parts used to prepare remedies. Cultural/Traditional knowledge plays an important role in valuing species in particular areas and associated conservation of food and medicinal plants.