Ethnoecological knowledge of ticks and treatment of tick-borne diseases among Maasai people in Northern Tanzania

Abstract

Aim:The aim of this study was to understand traditional knowledge of tick ecology and remedies for tick-borne diseases (TBDs) among the Maasai people in northern Tanzania.Materials and Methods:Semi-structured interviews were conducted among specific groups likely to be knowledgeable about tick ecology and TBDs in livestock among the Maasai people.Results:A total of 25 plant species belonging to 18 families were used to treat 8 different TBDs of livestock. Most of the plant species used were of Fabaceae and Burseraceae families. Aloe volkensii, Cissus grandifolia, and Terminalia brownii were the most commonly used plant species. The major plant growth form used was trees, while stems and bark were the main plant parts used. Most treatments were taken orally.Conclusion:Maasai people have substantial knowledge on tick ecology exemplified by their ability to differentiate between different tick species and the range of remedies for each of the TBDs. Because traditional ethnoveterinary remedies are frequently utilized, their effectiveness should be further investigated.

Antimicrobial Use and Veterinary Care among Agro-Pastoralists in Northern Tanzania

“…A study by Kioko et al . [ 43 ] among Maasai in Monduli District (where we also worked) found that 56% of Maasai associated ticks with ECF. Although Maasai are very interested in foreign veterinary medicines, they are much less interested in foreign explanatory models.…”

Acacia seyal and Terminalia brownii associated airborne contact dermatitis (Dukhan dermatitis)

“…11 Previous studies on the plant reported the antimicrobial activity of its extracts and fractions. [10][11][12] Terminalia brownii is one of the most In our study, the primary complaint of patients was intense pruritus on the legs. Some of the patients had lichenification of the skin with lichen simplex chronicus lesions on their legs as a result of excessive scratching.…”

“…In addition, Terminalia brownii has been found to have antioxidant activities and hepatoprotective properties . Previous studies on the plant reported the antimicrobial activity of its extracts and fractions . Terminalia brownii is one of the most important plants in treatment of tick‐borne diseases and is known to have antibacterial activity aganist Porphyromonas gingivalis …”

“…Terminalia brownii is known with its antibacterial and antioxidant properties, and the use of smoke from Acacia seyal is associated with an increased risk of visceral leishmaniasis (phlebotomus make peak activities in thickets of Acacia seyal). [3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13]…”

“…Clinical pictures of patients with Dukhan dermatitis on lower extremities (a) Acacia seyal and Terminalia brownii woods, (b&c) ROAT results of patients with airborne contact dermatitis important plants in treatment of tick-borne diseases12 and is known to have antibacterial activity aganist Porphyromonas gingivalis 13. …”