Investigating the use of Medicinal Plants in Traditional Birth Attendant Practices

Abner Tom Kalukusu

Department of Clinical Medicine and Dentistry Kampala International University Uganda

Email: abnertomkalukusu@studwc.kiu.ac.ug

ABSTRACT

Despite advances in modern healthcare, traditional birth attendants (TBAs) continue to play a critical role in maternal and neonatal care, particularly in rural and underserved communities across Africa and Asia. This study explores the ethno-botanical knowledge and practices of TBAs, with a focus on their use of medicinal plants during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and postpartum care. Drawing on qualitative data from various regions, including Cameroon, Zimbabwe, and the Philippines, the study reveals the types of plants used, their perceived benefits, cultural significance, and associated rituals. The findings underscore the widespread yet undocumented reliance on herbal remedies by TBAs and the need to preserve this indigenous knowledge in the face of modernization. While many medicinal plants have demonstrated efficacy in managing maternal health issues, concerns remain regarding safety, dosage, and potential interactions. The paper advocates for further scientific validation, documentation, and integration of TBA knowledge into broader health systems to enhance maternal care outcomes and safeguard valuable botanical heritage.

Keywords: Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs), medicinal plants, maternal health, ethnobotany, childbirth practices, indigenous knowledge, herbal medicine.

CITE AS: Abner Tom Kalukusu (2025). Investigating the use of Medicinal Plants in Traditional Birth Attendant Practices. RESEARCH INVENTION JOURNAL OF SCIENTIFIC AND EXPERIMENTAL SCIENCES 5(3):73-80. https://doi.org/10.59298/RIJSES/2025/5317380