INVASIVE ALIEN PLANT SPECIES USED FOR THE TREATMENT OF VARIOUS DISEASES IN LIMPOPO PROVINCE, SOUTH AFRICA

Area of Science:

• Ethnobotany
• Invasive Species Management
• Medicinal Plant Research

Background:

• Invasive alien plants (IAPs) are non-native species that can negatively impact ecosystems.
• Despite their destructive potential, some IAPs are used by local communities for medicinal purposes.
• This study focuses on the medicinal uses of IAPs in the Waterberg District, South Africa.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct an ethnobotanical survey of invasive plant species in the Waterberg District.
• To document the medicinal uses of IAPs by Bapedi traditional healers.
• To identify specific IAPs utilized for treating various human ailments.

Main Methods:

• An ethnobotanical survey was conducted with 30 Bapedi traditional healers selected via snowball sampling.
• Guided fieldwork and semi-structured questionnaires were employed to gather data.
• Information collected included local plant names, plant parts used, and preparation methods.

Main Results:

• Ten invasive plant species, including *Schinus molle*, *Catharanthus roseus*, and *Datura stramonium*, were identified for medicinal use.
• Leaves (57.6%) and roots (33.3%) were the most commonly used plant parts.
• *Schinus molle* was the most frequently utilized species.
• Eight of the ten surveyed IAPs are regulated under South African legislation (NEMBA and CARA).

Conclusions:

• Invasive alien plants serve as a valuable resource for traditional medicine in the Waterberg District.
• The medicinal utilization of IAPs can potentially alleviate pressure on over-harvested indigenous plant species.
• Understanding the ethnobotanical uses of IAPs is crucial for integrated management strategies.