Abstract

The plant Tacazzea apiculata Oliv (Periplocaceae) is widely distributed in tropical West Africa. It is claimed to have multiple uses in traditional medicine among which are its use to treat hemorrhoids, inflammations and cancers. Ethnobotanical survey through interview and using show-and-tell method of data collection were conducted among Hausa and Fulani tribes of Northern Nigeria with the view to document useful information on the numerous claims by the local people on the plant. The results revealed that the plant T. apiculata has relative popularity among the herbalist (38.2%), nomads (14.8%) and fishermen (16.0%). The most important uses of the plant in traditional medicine are inflammation (Fedelity level: 25.7%) and Haemorrhoids (Fedelity level: 17.1%). These results suggest the relevance of T. apiculata in traditional medicine and as a good candidate for drug Development.