Plants · 1 author, 1 centre
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This systematic review identified 101 Fabaceae species used as traditional medicines in Zimbabwe across 134 medical conditions, drawing on literature from 1959 to 2022. The review found that phytochemical and pharmacological studies have corroborated many of these traditional uses, though most evidence remains at the in vitro level.
This systematic review compiled ethnomedicinal, phytochemical, and pharmacological literature on Fabaceae species used as traditional medicines in Zimbabwe. Literature was searched across multiple online databases and library resources from September 2021 to November 2022, covering studies published during 1959 to 2022. Of approximately 665 Fabaceae species in Zimbabwe, 101 were found to be used medicinally, primarily against 134 medical conditions including gastrointestinal, female reproductive, respiratory conditions and sexually transmitted infections. Shrubs (39.0%), trees (37.0%) and herbs (18.0%) were the primary growth forms, with roots (80.2%) the most widely used plant part. Many species showed phytochemical compounds and pharmacological properties including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antitumor and antioxidant activities. However, the majority of biological activities studied were in vitro assays, and clinical and in vivo studies are largely lacking. The review identified a paucity of information on dosages, administration and cultural practices associated with usage.
