In the vast, sun-scorched landscapes of Mauritania, a humble plant known locally as Kinkéliba, or Combretum micranthum, has been a cornerstone of traditional medicine for generations. Now, a comprehensive study led by Ibrahima Mamadou SALL from the University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca has shed light on the plant’s widespread use and potential risks, offering valuable insights for both traditional healers and modern pharmaceutical industries.
The study, published in Notulae Botanicae Horti Agrobotanici Cluj-Napoca (which translates to “Botanical Notes of the Agrobotanical Garden of Cluj-Napoca”), reveals that an overwhelming majority of Mauritanian participants (95%) are familiar with Kinkéliba, with a significant 61.5% using it for therapeutic purposes. “The plant is deeply embedded in our traditional pharmacopoeia,” SALL notes, highlighting its role in treating a range of human ailments, from hypertension to diabetes, and even paludism.
But Kinkéliba’s uses don’t stop at human health. The study also uncovers its application in veterinary medicine, with participants reporting its efficacy in treating digestive disorders, fever, and diarrhea in animals. “Nearly half of the participants were unaware of these uses, indicating a wealth of untapped knowledge,” SALL observes, suggesting that further research could unlock even more benefits.
The plant’s leaves are the most commonly used part, often administered as a decoction or infusion. However, the study also raises a critical point: 88% of participants are unaware of the plant’s potential toxicity. “This is a significant concern,” SALL warns. “While Kinkéliba holds great promise, its misuse could pose serious health risks.”
The findings present a unique opportunity for the pharmaceutical and agricultural sectors. By understanding and harnessing the plant’s properties, companies could develop new drugs or supplements, tapping into the growing global market for natural remedies. Moreover, the study’s insights into traditional knowledge could pave the way for sustainable farming practices, benefiting local communities and the environment.
As SALL concludes, “This study is just the beginning. It highlights the importance of preserving traditional knowledge while emphasizing the need for further research and education.” By bridging the gap between tradition and innovation, the future of ethnopharmacology and medicinal plants could be as bright as the Mauritanian sun.