Haya: The Saudi Journal of Life Sciences (SJLS)
Volume-3 | Issue-05 | 420-428
Original Research Article
Biodiversity Conservation of Plant Taxa Used For Oral and Dental Health Management among the Ethnic Ijaws of Bayelsa State Nigeria
Ihinmikaiye SO, Kayode J, Arowosegbe S, Oyedeji AA
Published : May 30, 2018
Abstract
Diversity and conservation status of plant species used for oral and dental
management by the inhabitants of Bayelsa State, Nigeria were assessed. Information
on the indigenous knowledge of the plant species use was obtained via semi-structured
questionnaire guide, and field trip involved key informants. Species used for oral and
dental care were identified, and their relative abundant status determined. The study
revealed that different kinds of plant with varied growth habits were used for orodental
care; however some of the plants are becoming rare due to unprecedented
deforestation. Fidelity level (FL), and Respondents Consensus Factor (RCF) revealed
the relative importance and level of respondents’ reliance on the plants. The study
further showed that leaves, roots and plant inflorescence played significant role in oral
treatment either singly or in combination of other plant parts steeped in ogogoro, a
local gin. Many of the plants assessed were obtained from the wild, forest being their
primary source. Thus, with the increasing level of deforestation in the State and the
unsustainable collection pattern, combined with blasé attitude, the consequence of
erosion of culture: it becomes pertinent to document information of plant species used
for oral and dental management in the State.