Rediscovering Traditional Medicinal Herbs Used by Kikuyu Community in Kiambu County, Kenya

Abstract

This study aimed to document traditional medicinal herbs used by the Kikuyu community to contribute to Sustainable Development Goal 3, ensuring good health and well-being. Since traditional medicinal herbs are affordable, convenient and accessible, they are a good fit. The study’s objectives were to identify existing traditional medicinal herbs, the challenges of using traditional medicinal herbs, and the role of government in the traditional medicinal herbs initiative of the Kikuyu community in Kiambu County. This research employed a case study qualitative research design, and qualitative data was collected from Kihara ward, whose population stood at 395 for 65 years and above respondents as of 2019. Purposive and snowballing sampling was adopted and yielded a sample size of 46, with a response rate of 35 (76%) respondents comprising 31 elders above 65 years, three traditional herbalists and one Nyumba Kumi leader. Data was analysed thematically. The research identified and documented 34 traditional medicinal herbs from the Kikuyu community in Kihara Ward, Kiambu County. The perception of traditional medicinal herbs plays a considerable role in their usage, rooted among medical doctors, government officials, and the public, making it harder to resolve. Documentation can help preserve this knowledge for present and future generations, as well as the use of indigenous knowledge for research on medicinal drugs for revenue generation for Kenya. The results of this study can be populated into a national database for a system that will help Kenyans quickly access knowledge of traditional medicinal herbs