Abstract

The objective of this study is to conduct an ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used in management of depression among Hausa tribes in order to establish an informational data base. An ethnobotanical survey was conducted in December 2015 in Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria. Data were collected based on an oral interview with the aid of semi structured questionnaire. Only data from willing respondents were obtained and documented. Plant specimens were collected along the line, they were subsequently dried and mounted. It was then taken for identification and authentication in the Herbarium Section of Biological Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria where specimen voucher numbers were deposited. Information on sources, safety, methods of preparation and administrations, identity, local and botanical names of medicinal plants used in the management of depression among Hausa tribe of Kaduna State was obtained. An informational database was established and specimen with voucher numbers was deposited in the herbarium.

Key words: Ethnobotanical survey, depression, botanical names, medicinal plants, safety.