The Role of Medicinal Plants in Healing Coronavirus Pandemic in Songwe Region, Tanzania

Abstract

This research qualitatively explored the role of medicinal herbal plants in healing COVID-19 in Tanzania, focusing on the Songwe Region as a case study. Study participants included traditional leaders, elders, traditional healers, medical doctors, ward executive officers, village executive officers, and social community workers. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions and documentary reviews. Furthermore, content analysis was utilised as a tool for analysing the data. The study reveals that certain medicinal plants— like cluster fig (mkuyu in Swahili), oleifera (mlonge in Swahili), chibhangalume roots in Kinyiha, and Chindali, Luvumbe leaves in Kinyiha and Mguluka roots in Chindali were used to heal symptoms associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, such as coughing, flu, chills, respiratory distress and fatigue. These herbal remedies were primarily employed to address coronavirus-related maladies and promote overall health and wellness. The findings indicated that participants perceived these plants as productive in healing COVID-19, compared to conventional pharmaceuticals. The study suggests integrating medicinal herbal plants into public health to effectively combat the spread of COVID-19 in Tanzania.