Medicinal Plants Used in Antenatal and Perinatal Care Among the Tiv People of Benue State, Nigeria

Abstract

An ethnobotanical survey of plants used in prenatal or antenatal and perinatal care in the Tiv speaking areas of Benue State Nigeria is reported. A structured questionnaire was administered to informed respondents to document the traditional practices surrounding conception and contraception, abortion, delivery, prevention of preterm birth and infant mortality. The part of the plants used and purpose are presented. A scientific evaluation of these plants could lead to the development of new drugs to combat preterm birth and save the lives of millions of children worldwide especially in Africa and the developing countries.