Abstract

Several strategies have been embarked upon to reduce the prevalence of malaria and to eliminate it in our communities. Survey of plants often used for the treatment of malaria in Abeokuta, Ogun State was carried out. 100 questionnaires were administered; 50 on Traditional Herbal Practitioners and the other 50 on malaria patients. Study was also carried out on plant parts used, methods of preparation and administration and duration of usage. Results of this study showed that a total of 71 plants belonging to 45 families were collated Rubiaceae, Compositae, Anacardiaceae, and Caesalpiniaceae were the most frequent. The most frequently mentioned plants were Morinda lucida (60.56%), Azadirachta indica (56.33%), Cymbopogon citrates (56.33%), Sarcocephalus latifolia (56.33%), Alstonia boonei (54.93%), Carica papaya (53.52%), Khaya grandifolia (52.11%), Petivera  alliaceae (50.70%) Tithonia diversifolia (49.29%), Mangifera indica (46.48%). The most frequently used parts were leaves (22.53%) followed by combination of leaves and barks (23.94%). Various solvents for herbal preparation were mentioned out of which aqueous extract from fermented maize the most was frequently used. The herbal preparations (250-300ml) werenormally taken by oral application, 2-3times daily for at least 7 days.