ISSN 2169-303X
International Journal of Medicinal Plants Research ISSN 2169-303X Vol. 12 (10), pp. 001-008, October, 2023. © International Scholars Journals
Full Length Research Paper
The use of Ficus capensis Thunb (Moraceae) in African traditional medicine against female infertility and hypogalactia: literature review
OUEDRAOGO Rakiswendé Alexis1*, OUEDRAOGO Rakissida Alfred1, Tindano Basile2, BAYALA Balé2, SANOU/LAMIEN Assita1
1Morphology and Organogenesis Laboratory of the Science and Health Doctoral School, Joseph KI-ZERBO University, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
2Animal Physiology Laboratory of the Science and Technology Doctoral School, Joseph KI-ZERBO University, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
Received July 7, 2023; Accepted September 13, 2023; Published 09 October, 2023.
Abstract
Treatment of infertility and promotion of exclusive breastfeeding are important components of strategies to promote progress in reproductive health. Given the difficulties in accessing medically assisted reproductive techniques and commercial dairy products, African populations sometimes rely on medicinal plants. Ficus capensis is a fig tree used in African traditional medicine to treat female infertility and hypogalactia. The objective of this work was to review the use of Ficus capensis in African traditional medicine treatment of female infertility and hypogalactia. Data were collected from the PRELUDE database, Persée, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect and Researchgate. Data collected showed that Ficus capensis extracts were used in the treatment of female infertility and hypogalactia in at least thirteen African countries. All regions of sub-Saharan Africa were concerned. The organs of the plant used to treat these two diseases were the roots, bark, leaves and fruits. Roots were most commonly used for infertility and bark for hypogalactia. These organs were used isolated or combined in various forms, including decoctions, macerations and infusions. These preparations were administered orally, intrauterine or by external application to the abdomen or breast. Histological and physiological effects of Ficus capensis extracts on breast and on female reproductive organs were not well documented.
Keywords: Ficus capensis, female infertility, breastfeeding, hypogalactia, African traditional medicine.