Ethnomedicinal survey of coastal plants for economic development in the Eastern Cape province

Abstract

Background: South Africa is a biodiversity hotspot, particularly within the Cape Floristic Region, Succulent Karoo and Maputoland–Pondoland–Albany. These regions harbour high levels of endemism and support indigenous communities who depend on local flora for medicine and culture. Documenting these plants and their uses is critical for conserving biodiversity and indigenous knowledge.
Aim: To investigate traditional medicinal uses of indigenous coastal plants in the Eastern Cape Province.
Setting: The study was conducted at the University of Fort Hare, with interviews held in Mdantsane, Motherwell and Zidindi village, targeting traditional healers and street vendors.
Methods: Data were collected using structured questionnaires from 35 purposively selected respondents. Analyses were performed using SPSS, use-value, and fidelity level indices.
Results: Twenty-four indigenous coastal plant species from 21 families were recorded, with Asteraceae most frequently cited. Leaves (87.5%) were the most utilised plant part, while decoctions (66.7%) were the preferred preparation method. Oral administration dominated (87.5%). Shrubs (41.6%) and trees (37.5%) were the main growth forms. Helichrysum cymosum exhibited a 100% fidelity level for its use as an analgesic.
Conclusion: While most plants remain actively used, some are underutilised due to scarcity and habitat loss.
Contribution: Policymakers should promote sustainable harvesting and cultivation for herbal medicine markets. Further scientific validation of bioactive compounds and safety is necessary to support pharmaceutical development and broader applications.