Medicinal plants of Lesotho: A review of ethnomedicinal, pharmacological and conservation studies

Background: Of the approximately 2,076 plant species occurring in Lesotho, about 355 are used for medicinal purposes. Many communities country, mainly rural areas with limited access to health facilities, rely on traditional medicine as primary healthcare. Several publications provide helpful information plants purposes Lesotho. These include documentation of plants, investigation their therapeutic potential scientific validation use, and conservation status. However, a synthesis all studies conducted so far has hitherto not been undertaken. The current study aimed systematic review ethnomedicinal, pharmacological, undertaken brings together published unpublished literature sources, thus providing comprehensive database Lesotho plants. Furthermore, it identifies existing knowledge gaps research that carried out provides opportunities further research, especially search new natural products. Methods: Information was gathered from earliest publication dating back 1917. through keyword using accessible sources Google Scholar, Science Direct, Scopus PubMed. Books, dissertations, theses, technical reports were also searched. Keywords conjunction medicine. To be eligible inclusion review, source expected have assessed ethnomedicinal biological/pharmacological activity (e.g., antimicrobial activity), phytochemistry, toxicology) or status any Results: A total 116 records identified, which 76 included review. Thirty-one 14 pharmacological (nine antioxidant, three anti-inflammatory, five activities), six phytochemical, 15 scrutinized. It is important note some evaluated more than one activity. Ethnomedicinal show numerous however scientifically validate use remained behind. Conclusion: Lesotho’s activity, proof use. there number type phytochemical conducted. offer endless researchers working these fields. In addition, most unknown., therefore, detailed red data listing particularly those medicine, recommended. Keywords: ailments; ethnomedicine; safety; treatment toxicology