Research article

Cosmetic Ethnobotany Used by Tribal Women in Epe Communities of Lagos State, Nigeria

Sharaibi OJ*, Oluwa OK, Omolokun KT, Ogbe AA, Adebayo OA

Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Lagos State University, Lagos, Nigeria

Submission: April 6, 2024; Published: April 19, 2024

*Corresponding author: Sharaibi OJ, Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Lagos State University, Lagos, Nigeria, Email: bjlawal2002@yahoo.co

How to cite this article: Sharaibi OJ*, Oluwa OK, Omolokun KT, Ogbe AA, Adebayo OA. Cosmetic Ethnobotany Used by Tribal Women in Epe Communities of Lagos State, Nigeria. J Complement Med Alt Healthcare. 2024; 12(4): 555845. DOI: 10.19080/JCMAH.2024.12.555845

Abstract

The women of the Epe Local communities, often referred to as the ‘Tribal Women of Epe,’ have been the custodians of this ancient knowledge, passed down through generations. They have harnessed the power of local plant resources to enhance their beauty, maintain skin health, and engage in grooming rituals. This practice is not merely about aesthetics but deeply rooted in the cultural and ecological context of the Epe communities, offering a holistic approach to well-being. Ethnobotanical surveys were conducted with 210 women from fifteen (15) communities in Epe area of Lagos State, Nigeria between November 2020, and January 2021. The study area included Etita/Ebode, Lagbade, Popo‐oba, Oke‐Balogun, Ajaganabe, Ise/Igbogun, Oriba/Ladaba, Poka, Odomola, Abomiti, Agbowa, Agbowa-ikosi, Ago-owu, Orugbo and Ilara to obtain information on plants used as cosmetics by women in the study areas. Ethno botanical and demographic information was gathered from the respondents by using oral interview in Yoruba Language. Fifty-two (52) plant species belonging to thirty-one (31) families were identified to be used as cosmetics in the study area. Family Fabaceae had the highest number of plant species used for cosmetics in the study area. This was followed by Meliaceae, Cucurbitaceae and Zingiberaceae. Trees (44%) constituted many of the plants used in the study area; this was followed by herbs (33%) while climbers were the least used plant habit. Leaves were the predominantly used plant part while the bulbs and cloves constituted the least used plant parts. The use of botanical resources for cosmetic purposes has been a particularly noteworthy tradition among the tribal women of Epe’s communities. This practice has not only contributed to the preservation of indigenous knowledge but also provided insights into the unique botanical diversity of the region.

Keywords: Traditional cosmetics; Cosmetic ethnobotany; Anti-aging; Anti-aging remedies; Domestic medicines.

Introduction

Cosmetics are the substances applied to the human body for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, and altering appearance without affecting the body’s structure or functions. The term “cosmetic” originates from the Greek word “kosmētikos,” which signifies possessing the ability, artistry, or proficiency in adorning and beautifying. [1]. The origin of cosmetics was associated with hunting, fighting, religion and superstition and later associated with medicine. In traditional medicine practices, it has been discovered that plants possess utility in treating dermatological conditions. [2], enhancing the beauty and personality or hygiene of human beings [3,4] as well as anti-aging remedies or treatment [5]. Cosmetic ethnobotany, the study of traditional plant-based beauty practices and remedies, has played a pivotal role in the cultural heritage and daily lives of indigenous communities around the world. Phyto-cosmetics is a common practice in the domestic medicines of many cultures [6] with emphasis on skin, hair, and body. The majority of traditional cosmetics are employed in enhancing beauty, eliminating body odors, cleansing, and treating certain skin disease conditions in both children and adults. However, various cultures have specific beauty recipes.

In Africa, plants, minerals, and fats serve as the main composition of the recipes for traditional cosmetics. In recent times, there is an increase of interest in the use of traditional cosmetics and anti-aging skin care products because they are considered less toxic, effective, and believed to contain antioxidants which are useful in treating skin problem, skin toning, smoothening, and increasing radiance and hydration [7].

In the diverse landscape of Lagos State, Nigeria, where a multitude of ethnic groups coexist, the Epe Local communities stand out for their rich cultural traditions and intimate relationship with nature. Among the various facets of ethnobotanical knowledge preserved by these communities, the use of botanical resources for cosmetic purposes has been a particularly noteworthy tradition. This practice has not only contributed to the preservation of indigenous knowledge but also provided insights into the unique botanical diversity of the region. In this research, we explored the fascinating world of cosmetic ethnobotany practiced by the tribal women of Epe Local communities in Lagos State. We delved into their traditional knowledge, the plant species used, and the methods employed, shedding light on the botanical treasures hidden in their immediate environment.

Methodology

Study Area

Epe is an Ijebu-Yoruba town and Local Government Area (LGA) in Lagos State, Nigeria, located on the north side of the Lekki Lagoon. This location has always facilitated the development of the fishing industry, commerce, and agriculture. It occupies a total of 965 km2 (373 sq mi) and lies at an elevation of 25m (82 ft). As at the 2006 National Population Census, the population was 181, 409. Epe’s topography is marked by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, which has a significant influence on the geography of the area. The region features a combination of coastal, riverine, upland terrains, mangrove swamps, forests and woodlands which are rich in biodiversity and provide valuable ecosystem services.

Collection of Ethnobotanical Data

Ethnobotanical surveys were conducted with 210 women from fifteen (15) communities in Epe area of Lagos State, Nigeria between November 2020, and January 2021. The study area included Etita/ Ebode, Lagbade, Popo‐oba, Oke‐Balogun, Ajaganabe, Ise/Igbogun, Oriba/Ladaba, Poka, Odomola, Abomiti, Agbowa, Agbowa-ikosi, Ago-owu, Orugbo and Ilara to obtain information on plants used as cosmetics by women in the study areas. Ethno botanical and demographic information was gathered from the respondents by using oral interview in Yoruba Language. The interview focused on the informant’s knowledge of cosmetic herbs, collection, uses and recipe preparation; major infections and disease treated. Local names, distribution of plants, dose preparation, medium of intake and application of cosmetic recipe were also asked from the informants. The data were arranged according to taxonomic identification of plants, their uses, and local names. The data were further analyzed for basic categorization of the respondents’ age, literacy, gender, use preferences, parts of medicinal plants used, recipes preparation and mode of administration.

Ethnobotanical Survey

Fifty-two (52) plant species belonging to thirty-one families were identified to be used as cosmetics in the study area.

Discussion

The utilization of plants for cosmetic purposes, known as cosmetic ethnobotany, is deeply embedded in the cultural practices of various indigenous communities worldwide. In the Epe communities of Lagos State, Nigeria, tribal women have been utilizing local flora for cosmetic applications for generations. This discussion aims to delve into the significance of cosmetic ethnobotany among these tribal women, exploring the plants used, their cultural importance, and potential implications for conservation and community well-being.

In Epe communities, the practice of cosmetic ethnobotany is not merely a beauty regimen but an integral part of cultural heritage. Tribal women inherit this knowledge from previous generations through oral traditions and practical demonstrations. The selection, preparation, and application of plant-based cosmetics are often accompanied by rituals and ceremonies, reinforcing the cultural significance of these practices. Moreover, cosmetic ethnobotany fosters a sense of community identity and solidarity, as women gather to share knowledge and exchange experiences.

The local flora of Epe communities offers a rich diversity of plants suitable for cosmetic purposes. Commonly utilized species include shea butter (Vitellaria paradoxa), African black soap (Diospyros spp.), palm oil (Elaeis guineensis), and various aromatic herbs and flowers. These plants are employed to create a wide range of cosmetic products, including moisturizers, cleansers, hair treatments, and perfumes. Each plant is valued not only for its cosmetic properties but also for its medicinal and spiritual significance, reflecting the holistic approach to beauty and well-being in indigenous cultures. The practice of cosmetic ethnobotany plays a significant role in the socioeconomic dynamics of Epe communities. Tribal women often engage in small-scale production and trade of plant-based cosmetics, generating income for themselves and their families. Additionally, the cultivation and harvesting of cosmetic plants provide employment opportunities and contribute to local economic resilience. However, the commercialization of these practices also raises concerns about fair trade, intellectual property rights, and sustainable resource management, highlighting the need for ethical considerations and community-based initiatives. As the demand for natural cosmetics continues to rise globally, there is growing pressure on local ecosystems and traditional knowledge systems. In Epe communities, unsustainable harvesting practices and habitat degradation threaten the availability of cosmetic plants and jeopardize cultural continuity. Conservation efforts must, therefore, integrate indigenous perspectives and empower local communities to sustainably manage their natural resources. Initiatives such as community-led conservation projects, ecotourism ventures, and biodiversity monitoring can help preserve both biological diversity and cultural heritage for future generations.

Conclusion

Cosmetic ethnobotany represents a convergence of cultural, ecological, and socioeconomic values among tribal women in Epe communities of Lagos State, Nigeria. By recognizing the significance of traditional knowledge and promoting sustainable practices, we can foster holistic approaches to beauty, wellbeing, and community development. Through collaborative efforts involving indigenous communities, policymakers, and conservationists, we can ensure the preservation of both natural ecosystems and cultural traditions for the benefit of all.

References

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