Ethnobotanical insights into medicinal plants for managing childhood diseases and promoting wellbeing in South Africa

In South Africa, approximately 3,000 plant species have been used for ethnomedicine throughout history [ 1 ]. Rural populations often prefer traditional medicine due to its accessibility, affordability, and minimal side effects. Additionally, approximately 12 million children under five die annually in developing countries [ 2 ], with 70% of these deaths caused by communicable diseases and malnutrition [ 3 ]. However, the potential of traditional medicine, particularly in managing childhood diseases, remains understudied [ 4 ]. This review assesses the use of plants for childhood disease management and well-being in South Africa. Data was collected from scientific databases, ethnobotanical books, and interviews. A total of 252 plant species from 72 families are documented as remedies across seven provinces, including Aptosinum elongatum , Bulbine frutescens , Commelina diffusa , Euphorbia prostrata , Kigelia africana , Rhoicissus tridentata , Gomphocarpus fruticosus , and Vachellia karroo [ 4 ] [ 5 ] . These plants are recognized for their medicinal value in treating various childhood ailments in the region. The region does not specify thirty-two percent of the plant parts, with leaves (26%) and roots (19%) following closely behind. Topical application is the preferred method, especially for treating skin conditions, accounting for 75% of usage. The findings highlight a rich wealth of indigenous knowledge regarding medicinal plants, suggesting that if properly explored, low-cost bio-products could be developed. These could improve livelihoods and help alleviate poverty in rural communities. However, further scientific research is needed to assess the efficacy and safety of these plants for pharmacological use. Publication History Article published online: 05 March 2026 © 2026. Thieme. All rights reserved. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Oswald-Hesse-Straße 50, 70469 Stuttgart, Germany