Carissa spinarumL.: A Case Study in Ethnobotany and Bioprospecting Research

Abstract

This study explores ethnobiological and bioprospecting research through the lens of Carissa Spinarum L., using it as a case study to examine wider trends in such research. Hunn’s Phasing in Ethnobiology is used as a framework, analysing the extensive research of a species used in healing, diet and other domains. Most reported studies are illustrative of Phase I Ethnobiological research based on the lack of basic context, emic or ecological detail, or a sense of collaboration with participants or across disciplines. Elements of Phases II, III and IV are evident in some studies highlighting ethnographic context, ecological issues or indigenous knowledge and rights. The extractive character of Phase I research, usually used for bioprospecting purposes, decontextualises plant use and may contribute to the historically poor results from ethno-directed bioprospecting. The widespread marginalisation of the social sciences in bioprospecting research can invalidate the whole research project and in turn ethnomedical plant use itself. A species such as Carissa Spinarum L., emerging from Phase I research, can become a mere collection of its phytochemical parts, invalidated if those parts do not meet scientific measures of value. The collaborative character of Phase IV and V Ethnobiology would reward with more ethical and effective research with healing plants.

Carissa spinarum L.: a study using ethnomedicine-guided systems pharmacology in identifying a mechanism of action of a medicinal plant

“…The literature of Pokot ethnomedicine (Kenya) shows that several species used by the Pokot are widely used throughout Kenya 1 . One of these species, Carissa spinarum L. (CS) (Apocynaceae), was selected for further ethnomedical 2 and phytochemical investigation. The use of the inhaled root in chest congestion led to the analysis of steam distillate of CS root, finding a major metabolite, 2′-hydroxyacetophenone (2-HAP), with little known bioactivity 3 .…”