Traditional knowledge of local plants used against pests of crops and agricultural products among the Turka poeple in Burkina Faso

Abstract

The objective of this study is to provide an overview of endogenous traditional knowledge relating to local plants used against pests of crops and agricultural products. Through an ethnobotanical’s surveys carried out from 2018 to 2019 in the Cascades area in Burkina, 150 Turka ethnic group people were interviewed. Through semi-structured interviews, information looking for were concerned plants local names, their parts used, the domains and the modes of use. Data collected allowed to identify 33 plants’ species belonged to 30 genera and 19 families, used traditionally against agricultural pests. These plants are selectively involved in three domains: repelling insects, inhibiting invasive weeds and building lofts. Species are used either directly or processed into powder or ash. The leaves are used more than other organs. Cassia nigricans is the most used species for its repellent effect and Parkia biglobosa for its inhibitory effect. In-depth studies on the chemical properties of potential species will reduce the impact of chemicals in agricultural against pests.