Preference of Medicinal Plants in the Treatment of Malaria Fever in Akure South Local Government Area, Ondo State Nigeria

Malaria is a common and devastating disease affecting half of the world’s population. The study investigated preference of medicinal plants in the treatment of malaria fever in Akure South Local Government Area of Ondo state, Nigeria. Primary data were obtained for the purpose of this study using structured questionnaire. The data collected included the socio-economic characteristics, preference and use of medicinal plants as well as types of medicinal plants utilized for malaria treatment. Multi-stage sampling was employed in the selection of one hundred respondents. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and probit regression model. The mean age of the respondents was 40 years and the mean household size was 6 persons. Despite access to modern health facilities, 64.0% of the respondents preferred medicinal plants in the treatment of malaria fever. Medicinal plants / parts commonly used in malaria treatment are neem leaves, lemon grass, mango bark and leaves, cashew bark and leaves, moringa olifera, bitter gourd and unripe pawpaw. Preference for medicinal plants in the treatment of malaria was influenced by sex, income, and taste. Lack of standardization and unpalatable taste are key constraints to utilization of medicinal plants in the treatment of malaria fever. The study recommends the extraction of the active agents in these plants by relevant research and development agencies to ensure standardization. Government should intensify efforts towards the eradication of malaria fever in Nigeria.