Skip to main content

Advertisement

SpringerLink
Log in

Feeding the Forgotten: Wild and Cultivated Ceratotheca and Sesamum (Pedaliaceae) That Nourish and Provide Remedies in Africa

  • Published:
Economic Botany Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

The usage and cultural importance of wild and weedy edible leaves of wild relatives of sesame, Ceratotheca and Sesamum in Africa, is reported from herbarium records, published sources, and firsthand observations. They contribute not only nutritionally—protein, lipid, and micronutrients, especially calcium and iron—but release a little scrutinized valuable product, water-soluble polysaccharide mucilage, that serves as a source of fiber and provides beneficial dietary bulk, enhances gastrointestinal function, alleviates constipation, protects against diabetes, and lowers cholesterol. Dissimilar genera and species are used in similar ways. Their utility was discovered by women gathering edible leaves to accompany dry cereal staples. African vernacular names from several disparate cultures refer to their slimy consistency. Corresponding nutritional and mucilage constituents of several other popular African vegetables are evaluated for comparison.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this article

Log in via an institution

Price excludes VAT (USA)
Tax calculation will be finalised during checkout.

Instant access to the full article PDF.

Institutional subscriptions

Fig. 1
Fig. 2
Fig. 3
Fig. 4
Fig. 5
Fig. 6
Fig. 7
Fig. 8
Fig. 9
Fig. 10

Similar content being viewed by others

Literature Cited

  • Abiodun, O.A. 2017. Chemical and antioxidant properties of Ceratotheca sesamoides Endl. leaves. Carpathian Journal of Food Science and Technology 9(3): 107–113.

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Abubakar, M.S., A.M. Musa, A.Ahmed, and I.M. Hussain. 2007. The perception and practice of traditional medicine in the treatment of cancers and inflammations by the Hausa and Fulani tribes of Northern Nigeria. Journal of Ethnopharmacology 111: 625–629.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Abukutsa-Onyango, M. 2007. The diversity of cultivated African leafy vegetables in three communities in western Kenya. In: Developing African leafy vegetables for improved nutrition. Regional Workshop, 6–9 December 2005, eds. R. Oniang’o, M. Grum, and E. Obel-Lawson, 85–91. African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development 7(3–4).

  • Achigan-Dako, E.G., M.W. Pasquini, F. Assogba-Komlan, S. N’danikou, H. Yédomonhan, A. Dansi, and B. Ambrose-Oji. 2010. Traditional vegetables in Benin. In: Imprimeries du CENAP, 164–166. Cotonou: Institut National des Recherches Agricoles du Bénin.

    Google Scholar 

  • Achigan-Dako, E.G., M.W. Pasquini, F. Assogba-Komlan, S. N’danikou, F. Assogba-Komlan, B. Ambrose-Oji, A. Ahanchede, and M.W. Pasquini. 2011. Diversity, geographical, and consumption patterns of traditional vegetables in sociolinguistic communities in Benin: Implications for domestication and utilization. Economic Botany 65(2): 129–145.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Acipa, A., M. Kamatenesi-Mugisha, and H. Oryem-Origa. 2013. Documentation and nutritional profile of some selected food plants of Otwal and Ngai sub counties Oyam district, northern Uganda. African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development 13(2): 7428–7451.

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Adam, J.G., N. Echard, and M. Lescot. 1972. Plantes médicinales Hausa de l’Ader (République du Niger). Journal d’Agriculture Tropicale et de Botanique Appliquée 19: 259–399.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Adelakun, O.E. and O.J. Oyelade. 2011. Chemical and antioxidant properties of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus Moench) seed. In: Nuts and seeds in health and disease prevention, eds. V.R. Preedy, R.R. Watson, and V.B. Patel, 841–846. London: Academic Press.

  • Ademoyegun, O.T., P.E. Akin-Idowu, D.O. Ibitoye, and G.O. Adewuyi. 2013. Phenolic contents and free radical scavenging activity in some leafy vegetables. International Journal of Vegetable Science 19(2): 126–137.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Adéoti, K., A. Dansi, L. Ahoton, B. Kpèki, B.C. Ahohuendo, A. Ahanchédé, R. Vodouhè, J.D. Hounhouigan, and A. Sanni. 2009. Selection of sites for the in situ conservation of four traditional leafy vegetables consumed in Benin. International Journal of Biological and Chemical Sciences 3(6): 1357–1374.

    Google Scholar 

  • Adetuyi, F.O. and I.B.O. Dada. 2014. Nutritional, phytoconstituent and antioxidant potential of mucilage extract of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus), water leaf (Talinum triangulare) and Jews mallow (Corchorus olitorius). International Food Research Journal 21(6): 2345–2353.

    Google Scholar 

  • Adjanohoun, E.J. and L. Ake Assi. 1979. Contribution aux recencement des plantes médicinales de Côte d’Ivoire. Universite d’Abidjan, Ivory Coast: Centre National de Floristique.

  • Adjanohoun, E., M.R.A. Ahyi, L. Ake Assi, L. Dan Dicko, H. Daouda, M. Delmas, S. de Souza, M. Garba, S. Guinko, A. Kayonga, D. N’Glo, J.L. Reynal, and M. Saadou. 1980. Contribution aux études ethnobotaniques et floristiques au Niger. Paris: Agence de Coopération Culturelle et Technique.

    Google Scholar 

  • Adjanohoun, E.J.V., M.R.A. Adjakidje, K. Ahyi, P. Akpagana, A. Chibon, J. El-Hadji, M. Eyme, J.N. Garba, M. Gassita, E. Gbeassor, S. Goudote, K K. Guinko, P. Hodouto, A. Houngnon, Y. Keita, W.P. Keoula, W.P. Kluga-Ocloo, I. Lo, K.M. Siamevi, and K.K. Taffame. 1986. Contributions aux études ethnobotaniques et floristiques au Togo. Médecine Traditionelle et Pharmacopée. Paris: Agence de Coopération Culturelle et Technique.

    Google Scholar 

  • Adjanohoun, E., M.R.A. Ahyi, L. Ake Assi, J. Baniakina, P. Chibon, G. Cusset, V. Doulou, A. Enzanza, J. Eymé, E. Goudoté, A. Keita, C. Mbemba, J. Mollet, J.M. Moutsamboté, J. Mpati, and P. Sita. 1988. Contribution aux études ethnobotaniques et floristiques en République populaire du Congo. Paris: Agence de Coopération Culturelle et Technique.

    Google Scholar 

  • Adjanohoun, E.J., V. Adjakidje, M.R.A. Ahyi, L. Ake Assi, A. Akoegninou, J. d’Almeida, F. Apovo, K. Boukef, M. Chadare, G. Gusset, K. Dramane, J. Eyme, J.N. Gassita, N. Gbaguidi, E. Goudote, S. Guinko, P. Houngnon, Issa Lo, A. Keita, H.V. Kiniffo, D. Kone-Bamba, A. Musampa Nseyya, M. Saadou, T. Sodogandji, S. de Souza, A. Tchabi, C. Zinsou Dossa, and T. Zohoun. 1989. Contributions aux études ethnobotaniques et floristiques en République Populaire du Bénin. Médecine Traditionelle et Pharmacopée. Paris: Agence de Coopération Culturelle et Technique.

    Google Scholar 

  • Adomou, A.C., H. Yedomonhani, B. Djossa, S.I. Legba, M. Oumorou, and A. Akoegninou. 2012. Etude Ethnobotanique des plantes médicinales vendues dans le marché d’Abomey–Calavi au Bénin. International Journal of Biological and Chemical Sciences 6(2): 745–772.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Agbankpé, A.J., S.H. Bankolé, T.J. Dougnon, B. Yèhouénou, Y.M.G. Hounmanou, and L.S. Baba-Moussa. 2015. Comparison of nutritional values of Vernonia amygdalina, Crateva adansonii and Sesamum radiatum: Three main vegetables used in traditional medicine for the treatment of bacterial diarrhea in southern Benin. Food and Public Health 5(4): 144–149.

    Google Scholar 

  • Agbankpé, A.J., T.J. Dougnon, S.H. Bankolé, O. Houngbegnon, D. Dah-nouvlessounon, and Baba-moussa. 2016. In vitro antibacterial effects of Crateva adansonii, Vernonia amygdalina and Sesamum radiatum used for the treatment of infectious diarrheas in Benin. Journal of Infectious Diseases & Therapy 4: 281.

    Google Scholar 

  • Agyare, C., Y. D. Boakye, E. O. Bekoe, A. Hensel, S. O. Dapaah, and T. Appiah. 2016. Review: African medicinal plants with wound healing properties. Journal of ethnopharmacology 177: 85–100.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Ahmed, T., L.A.J. Shittu, M.A. Bankole, R.K. Shittu, O.A. Adesanya, M.N. Bankole, and O.A. Ashiru. 2009. Comparative studies of the crude extracts of sesame against some common pathogenic microorganisms. Scientific Research and Essay 4(6): 584–589.

    Google Scholar 

  • Ajakaiye, C.O. 1988. Leaf nitrate, nitrate reductaase activity and crude protein in Corchorus olitorius and Ceratotheca sesamoides Endl. Nigerian Journal of Botany 1: 36–42.

    Google Scholar 

  • Ake Assi, O.Y., D. Sidibé, P. Kouakou, V. Deigna-Mockey, Y.N. Konan, A. Coulibaly, and H.G. Biego. 2017. Characterization of the mucilages of four food plants, Abelmoschus esculentus, Beilschmiedia mannii, Corchorus olitorius, and Irvingia gabonensis, from Côte d’lvoire. Biotechnology Journal International 19(2): 1–10.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Alnadif, A. A. M., M. E. S. Mirghani, and I. H. Hussein. 2017. Sesamum alatum (Thonn) winged-seed sesame. In: Unconventional oilseeds and oil sources, eds. A. A. M. Alnadif, M. E. S. Mirghani, and I. H. Hussein, 39–44. Cambridge, MA: Academic Press.

    Google Scholar 

  • Anilakumar, K.R., A. Pal, F. Khanum, and A.S. Bawa. 2010. Nutritional, medicinal and industrial uses of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) seeds—An overview. Agriculturae Conspectus Scientificus 75(4): 159–168.

    Google Scholar 

  • Anywar, G., H. Oryem-Origa, and M.K. Mugisha. 2014. Wild plants used as nutraceuticals from Nebbi District, Uganda. European Journal of Medicinal Plants 4(6): 641–660.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Auwalu, B.M. and F.E. Babatunde. 2007. Analyses of growth, yield and fertilization of vegetable sesame (Sesamum radiatum Schum). Journal of Plant Sciences 2(1): 108–110.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Avohou, H.T., R.S. Vodouhè, A. Dansi, M. Bellon, and B. Kpeki. 2012. Ethnobotanical factors influencing the use and management of wild edible plants in agricultural environments in Benin. Ethnobotany Research & Applications 10: 571–592.

    Google Scholar 

  • Aworh, O.C. 2018. From lesser-known to super vegetables: The growing profile of African traditional leafy vegetables in promoting food security and wellness. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture. https://doi.org/10.1002/jsfa.8902.

  • Ayantunde, A.A., P. Hiernaux, M. Briejer, H. Udo, and R. Tabo. 2009. Uses of local plant species by agropastoralists in southwestern Niger. Ethnobotany Research and Applications 7: 53–66.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Babajide, P.A., O.J. Popoola, J. Gbadamosi, T.A. Oyedele, and M.O. Liasu. 2017. Evaluation of phyto-extraction potentials and performance of false sesame (Ceratotheca sesamoides) under induced soil pollution by automobile lubricant in savanna ecoregion. International Journal of Research – Granthaalayah 5(11): 355–365.

    Google Scholar 

  • Baerts, M. and J. Lehmann. 1989. Guérìsseurs et plantes médicinales de la région des crêtes Zaïre–Nil au Burundi. Annales, Sciences économiques 18. Tervuren, Belgique: Musée royal de l’Afrique centrale.

    Google Scholar 

  • Banderembako, F. and T. Ntitangirageza. n.d. La médecine populaire au Burundi: Quelques plantes médicinales. Reference HB 28, additional citation not available. http://www.africamuseum.be/collections/external/prelude/view_plant?pi=11400 (March 2018).

  • Bankole, M.A., L.A.J. Shittu, T.A. Ahmed, M.N. Bankole, R.K. Shittu, T. Kpela, and O.A. Ashiru. 2007. Synergistic antimicrobial activities of phytoestrogens in crude extracts of two sesame species against some common pathogenic microorganisms. African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines 4(4): 427–433.

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Batawila, K., S. Akpavi, K. Wala, N. Kanda, R. Vodouhè, and K. Akpagana. 2007. Diversité et gestion des légumes de cueillette au Togo. In: Developing African leafy vegetables for improved nutrition. Regional Workshop, 6–9 December 2005, eds. R. Oniang’o, M. Grum, and E. Obel-Lawson, 55–68. African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development 7(3–4).

  • Bawa, S. H. and N. Badrie. 2016. Nutrient profile, bioactive components, and functional properties of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench). In: Fruits, vegetables, and herbs: Bioactive foods in health promotion, eds. R.R. Watson and V.R. Preedy, 365–409. London: Academic Press.

    Chapter  Google Scholar 

  • Becker, B. 1983. The contribution of wild plants to human nutrition in the Ferlo (Northern Senegal). Agroforestry Systems 1:257–267.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Bedigian, D. 1984. Sesamum indicum L. crop origin, diversity, chemistry and ethnobotany. Ph.D. dissertation, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. University Microfilms DA8502071, Dissertation Abstracts International 45, 1985: 3410–B.

  • ———. 1988. Sesamum indicum L. (Pedaliaceae): Ethnobotany in Sudan, crop diversity, lignans, origin, and related taxa. In: Modern systematic studies in African botany, Proceedings of the eleventh plenary meeting of the Association for the Taxonomic Study of the Flora of Tropical Africa, Missouri Botanical Garden, St. Louis, June 10–14, 1985, eds. P. Goldblatt, and P.P. Lowry, 25: 315–321. St. Louis, MO: Missouri Botanical Garden.

    Google Scholar 

  • ———. 2003a. Evolution of sesame revisited: Domestication, diversity and prospects. Genetic Resources and Crop Evolution 50: 779–787.

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • ———. 2003b. Sesame in Africa: Origin and dispersals. In: Food, fuel and fields—Progress in African archaeobotany, eds. K. Neumann, A. Butler, and S. Kahlheber, 17–36. Cologne: Heinrich-Barth-Institute, Africa Praehistorica.

    Google Scholar 

  • ———. 2004a. History and lore of sesame in southwest Asia. Economic Botany 58(3): 329–353.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • ———. 2004b. Importance of botanical data to historical research on Africa. In: Writing African history: Methods and sources, ed. J.E. Philips, 152–168. Rochester, New York: University of Rochester Press.

    Google Scholar 

  • ———. 2004c. Sesamum radiatum Thonn ex Hornem. In: Vegetables, eds. G. Grubben and O.A. Denton, 2: 465–467. Wageningen: Plant Resources of Tropical Africa.

    Google Scholar 

  • ———. 2004d. Slimy leaves and oily seeds: Distribution and use of wild relatives of sesame in Africa. Economic Botany 58(Supplement): S3–S33.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • ———. 2006a. Assessment of sesame and its wild relatives in Africa. In: Taxonomy and ecology of African plants, their conservation and sustainable use. Proceedings, Association pour l’Etude Taxonomique et Floristique in Afrique Tropicale [AETFAT] Congress, Addis Ababa September 21–26, 2003, eds. S.A. Ghazanfar and H.J. Beentje, 481–491. Kew: Royal Botanic Gardens.

  • ———. 2006b. Pedaliaceae. In: Flore Analytique du Bénin, eds. A. Akoègninou, W.J. van der Burg, and L.J.G. van der Maesen, 846–849. Cotonou, Benin and Wageningen: Backhuys.

    Google Scholar 

  • ———. 2011. Cultivated sesame, and wild relatives in the genus Sesamum L. In: Sesame: The genus Sesamum. Medicinal and Aromatic Plants – Industrial Profiles series, ed. D. Bedigian, 33–77. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, Taylor & Francis Group.

    Google Scholar 

  • ———. 2013a. African origins of sesame cultivation in the Americas. In: African ethnobotany in the Americas, eds. R. Voeks, and J. Rashford, 67–120. New York: Springer.

    Chapter  Google Scholar 

  • ———. 2013b. Ecogeography and taxonomy of Rogeria J. Gay ex Delile (Pedaliaceae). Webbia 68(2): 103–126.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • ———. 2014. A new combination for the Indian progenitor of sesame, Sesamum indicum L. (Pedaliaceae). Novon 23(1): 5–13.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • ———. 2015. Systematics and evolution in Sesamum L. (Pedaliaceae), part 1: Evidence regarding the origin of sesame and its closest relatives. Webbia 70(1): 1–42.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Bedigian, D. and O.A. Adetula. 2004. Ceratotheca sesamoides Endl. In: Vegetables, eds. G. Grubben and O.A. Denton, 2: 175–177. Wageningen: Plant Resources of Tropical Africa.

    Google Scholar 

  • Bedigian, D. and J.R. Harlan. 1983. Nuba agriculture and ethnobotany with particular reference to sesame and sorghum. Economic Botany 37: 384–395.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Bedigian, D., D.S. Seigler, and J.R. Harlan. 1985. Sesamin, sesamolin and the origin of sesame. Biochemical Systematics and Ecology 13: 133–139.

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Beekrum, S. 2003. Nutritional value of traditional leafy vegetables in Kwa–Zulu Natal. M.S. thesis, Food Technology, Durban Institute of Technology, South Africa.

  • Bellomaria, B. and P. Kacou. 1995. Plantes et médecine populaire d’Agboville (Côte d’Ivoire). Fitoterapia 66: 117–141.

    Google Scholar 

  • Berlin, B. 1973. Folk systematics in relation to biological classification and nomenclature. Annual Review of Ecology and Systematics 4: 259–271.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • ———. 1992. Ethnobiological classification: Principles of categorization of plants and animals in traditional societies. Princeton, New Jersey: Princeton University Press.

    Book  Google Scholar 

  • Berlin, B., D.E. Breedlove, and P.H. Raven. 1973. General principles of classification and nomenclature in folk biology. American Anthropologist 75: 214–242.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Berlin, B., D.E. Breedlove, and P. H. Raven. 1974. Principles of Tzeltal plant classification: An introduction to the botanical ethnography of a Mayan-speaking people of highland Chiapas. New York: Academic Press.

    Google Scholar 

  • Bouquet, A. 1969. Féticheurs et médecines traditionnelles du Congo (Brazzaville). Mémoires O.R.S.T.O.M. [Office de la recherche scientifique et technique Outre-Mer], No. 36.

  • Bouquet, A. and M. Debray. 1974. Plantes médicinales de la Côte d’Ivoire. Paris: Travaux et Documents de l’O.R.S.T.O.M. [Office de la recherche scientifique et technique Outre-Mer], No. 32.

  • Carney, J. and M. Elias. 2006. Revealing gendered landscapes: Indigenous female knowledge of agroforestry of African shea. Canadian Journal of African Studies 40: 235–267.

    Google Scholar 

  • Chawla, R. and G.R. Patil. 2010. Soluble dietary fiber. Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety 9(2): 178–196.

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Chhabra, S.C. and R.L.A. Mahunnah. 1994. Plants used in traditional medicine by Hayas of the Kagera region, Tanzania. Economic Botany 48(2): 121–129.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Choudhary, S.B., H.K. Sharma, P.G. Karmakar, A.A. Kumar, A.R. Saha, P. Hazra, and B.S. Mahapatra. 2013. Nutritional profile of cultivated and wild jute (Corchorus) species. Australian Journal of Crop Science 7(13): 1973–1982.

    Google Scholar 

  • Corbeil, J.J. 1985. Cibemba bush medicines, Zambia. Ethnobotanik—Ethnobotany, 313–324. Wiesbaden: Vieweg+Teubner Verlag.

    Book  Google Scholar 

  • Dansi, A., A. Adjatin, H. Adoukonou-Sagbadja, V. Faladé, H. Yedomonhan, D. Odou, and B. Dossou. 2008. Traditional leafy vegetables and their use in the Benin Republic. Genetic Resources and Crop Evolution 55: 1239–1256.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Dansi, A., A. Adjatin, H. Adoukonou-Sagbadja, V. Adomou, V. Faladé, H. Yedomonhan, K. Akpagana, and B. de Foucault. 2009. Traditional leafy vegetables in Benin: Folk nomenclature, species under threat and domestication. Acta Botanica Gallica 156(2): 183–199.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Dansi, A., C.A. Etèka, K. Adéoti, G.C. Orkwor, B.C. Ahohuendo, Y. L. Loko, and R. Vodouhè. 2012a. Black benniseed (Sesamum radiatum Schum. et Thonn.) cultivated as leafy vegetable in Benin. Genetic Resources and Crop Evolution 59(5): 955–964.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Dansi, A., R. Vodouhè, P. Azokpota, H. Yedomonhan, P. Assogba, A. Adjatin, Y.L. Loko, I. Dossou-Aminon, and K. Akpagana. 2012b. Diversity of the neglected and underutilized crop species of importance in Benin. The ScientificWorld Journal. https://doi.org/10.1100/2012/932947.

  • Diafouka, A.J.P. 1997. Analyse des usages des plantes médicinales dans 4 régions de Congo–Brazzaville. Thèse de doctorat, Université libre de Bruxelles, Faculté des Sciences, Laboratoire de Botanique Systématique et de Phytosociologie.

  • Durand, J.M. 1960. Les plantes bienfaisantes du Ruanda et de l’Urundi. Astrida: Groupe scolaire.

    Google Scholar 

  • Dzoyem, J.P., V. Kuete, L.J. McGaw, and J.N. Eloff. 2014. The 15-lipoxygenase inhibitory, antioxidant, antimycobacterial activity and cytotoxicity of fourteen ethnomedicinally used African spices and culinary herbs. Journal of Ethnopharmacology 156: 1–8.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • El Mahdy, A.R. and L.A. El-Sebaiy. 1984. Preliminary studies on the mucilages extracted from Okra fruits, Taro tubers, Jew’s mellow leaves and Fenugreek seeds. Food Chemistry 14(4): 237–249.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ellandala, R., N. Yasmeen, T. Shashank, K. Sujatha, and K. Prathapagiri. 2011. Role of Sesamum alatum L. on nephropathy in diabetic rats. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research 18: 1716–1721.

    Google Scholar 

  • Endlicher, S.L. 1832. Ceratotheca, eine neue Pflanzengattung aus der Ordnung der Sesameen. Berlin: Trowitzach und Sohn.

    Google Scholar 

  • Etèka, C.A., B.C. Ahohuendo, L.E. Ahoton, S.D. Dabadé, and A. Ahanchédé. 2010. Seeds’ germination of four traditional leafy vegetables in Benin (LFT). Tropicultura 28(3):148–152.

    Google Scholar 

  • Etèka, C.A., B.C. Ahohuendo, A. Dansi, F. Assogba-Komlan, R. Vodouhè, L.E. Ahoton, A. Ahanchédé, A. Sanni, and J. Hounhouigan. 2011. Diversity, cultural practices and domestication of Sesamum radiatum Thonn. ex Hornem and Justicia tenella (Nees) T., two neglected and underutilised traditional leafy vegetables consumed in Benin. African Journal of Agricultural Research 6(27): 5891–5904.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Etèka, C.A., B.C. Ahohuendo, L.E. Ahoton, F.N. Kakpo, A. Dansi, A. Ahanchédé, J. Hounhouigan, R. Vodouhè, and A. Sanni. 2012. Influence du mode de plantation sur la production de Sesamum radiatum (Lin.), un légume feuille traditionnel en domestication au Bénin. International Journal of Biological and Chemical Sciences 6(2): 799–807.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Fasakin, K. 2004. Proximate composition of bungu (Ceratotheca sesamoides Endl.) leaves and seeds. Biokemistri 16(2): 88–92.

    Google Scholar 

  • Fasola, T.R. and O.K. Ogunsola. 2014. The proximate and phytochemical composition of Sesamum indicum Linn and Ceratotheca sesamoides Endl at different stages of growth. Journal of Biology, Agriculture and Healthcare 4(6): 84–88.

    Google Scholar 

  • Fernandez de la Pradilla, C. 1985. Des plantes qui nous ont guéris, Vol. 2. Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso: Jeunesse d’Afrique.

    Google Scholar 

  • Fuji, Y., A. Uchida, K. Fukahori, M. Chino, T. Ohtsuki, and H. Matsufuji. 2018. Chemical characterization and biological activity in young sesame leaves (Sesamum indicum L.) and changes in iridoid and polyphenol content at different growth stages. PLoS One 13(3): e0194449.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  • Fuller, D.Q., T. Denham, M. Arroyo-Kalin, L. Lucas, C.J. Stevens, L. Qin, R.G. Allaby, and M.D. Purugganan. 2014. Convergent evolution and parallelism in plant domestication revealed by an expanding archaeological record. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 111(17): 6147–6152.

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Gautier-Béguin, D. 1992. Plantes de cueillette à utilisation alimentaire en Côte d’Ivoire Centrale. Boissiera 46: 216–219.

    Google Scholar 

  • Geissler, P.W., S.A. Harris, R.J. Prince, A. Olsen, R.A. Odhiambo, H. Oketch-Rabah, P.A. Madiega, A. Andersen, and P. Mølgaard. 2002. Medicinal plants used by Luo mothers and children in Bondo district, Kenya. Journal of Ethnopharmacology 83: 39–54.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Gelfand, M., S. Mavi, R.B. Drummond, and B. Ndemera. 1985. The traditional medical practitioner in Zimbabwe: His principles of practice and pharmacopoeia. Gweru, Zimbabwe: Mambo Press.

    Google Scholar 

  • Gemede, H.F., N. Ratta, G.D. Haki, A.Z. Woldegiorgis, and F. Beyene. 2015. Nutritional quality and health benefits of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus): A review. Journal of Food Processing and Technology 6: 458.

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Glew, R.H., D.J. VanderJagt, C. Lockett, L.E. Grivetti, G.C. Smith, A. Pastuszyn, and M. Millson. 1997. Amino acid, fatty acid, and mineral composition of 24 indigenous plants of Burkina Faso. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis 10:205–217.

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Gueye, M. and M. Diouf. 2007. Traditional leafy vegetables in Senegal: Diversity and médicinal uses. African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines 4(4): 469–475.

    Google Scholar 

  • Haerdi, F. 1964. Afrikanische Heilpflanzen. Die eingeborenen–Heilpflanzen des Ulanga–Districtes Tanganjikas (Ostafrika). Acta Tropica Suppl. 8: 1–278.

    Google Scholar 

  • Hamill, F.A., S. Apio, N.K. Mubiru, R. Bukenya-Ziraba, M. Mosango, O.W. Maganyi, and D.D. Soejarto. 2003. Traditional herbal drugs of southern Uganda II: Literature analysis and antimicrobial assays. Journal of Ethnopharmacology 84(1): 57–78.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Harlan, J.R. 1992. Crops and man, 2nd ed. Madison, WI: Agronomy Society of America.

    Google Scholar 

  • Hata, N., Y. Hayashi, A. Okazawa, E. Ono, H. Satake, and A. Kobayashi. 2010. Comparison of sesamin contents and CYP81Q1 gene expressions in aboveground vegetative organs between two Japanese sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) varieties differing in seed sesamin contents. Plant Science 178(6): 510–516.

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Heinrich, M. and S. Gibbons. 2001. Ethnopharmacology in drug discovery: An analysis of its role and potential contribution. Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology 53: 425–432.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Heinrich, M., S. Edwards, D. E. Moerman, and M. Leonti. 2009. Ethnopharmacological field studies: A critical assessment of their conceptual basis and methods. Journal of Ethnopharmacology 124: 1–17.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Hill, H. 1930. The shea tree (Butyrospermum parkii) in the Northern Territories. Bulletin of the Gold Coast Department of Agriculture, Yearbook 1929: 226–238.

  • Hostettmann, K., A. Marston, and K. Ndjoko. 2000. The potential of African plants as a source of drugs. Current Organic Chemistry 4: 973–1010.

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Howard-Borjas, P.L. and W. Cuijpers. 2002. Gender relations in local plant genetic resource management and conservation. Biotechnology. In: Encyclopedia of life support systems, eds. H.W. Doelle and E. DaSilva. Cambridge: EOLSS Publishers.

    Google Scholar 

  • Idirs, S., J. Yisa, and M.M. Ndamitso. 2009. Nutritional composition of Corchorus olitorius leaves. Animal Production Research Advances 5(2): 83–87.

    Google Scholar 

  • Irvine, F.R. 1952. Supplementary and emergency food plants of West Africa. Economic Botany 6(1): 23–40.

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • ———. 1956. The edible cultivated and semi-cultivated leaves of West Africa. Materiae Vegetabiles 2: 35–42.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Islam, M.M. 2013. Biochemistry, medicinal and food values of jute (Corchorus capsularis L. and C. olitorius L.) leaf: A review. International Journal of Enhanced Research in Science Technology & Engineering 2(11): 35–44.

    Google Scholar 

  • Iweala, E.E.J., F.F. Liu, R.R. Cheng, Y. Li, C.A. Omonhinman, and Y.J. Zhang. 2015. Anti-cancer and free radical scavenging activity of some Nigerian food plants in vitro. International Journal of Cancer 11(1): 41–51.

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Jackson, C., E. Akpabio, R. Umoh, M. Adedokun, P. Ubulom, and G. Ekpe. 2012. Evaluation of Sesamum indicum gum as a binder in the formulation of paracetamol granules and tablets. Research in Pharmaceutical Biotechnology 4(1): 1–5.

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Jäger, A.K., S.P. Mohoto, F.R. van Heerden, and A.M. Viljoen. 2005. Activity of a traditional South African epilepsy remedy in the GABA-benzodiazepine receptor assay. Journal of Ethnopharmacology 96: 603–606.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Jardin, C., comp. 1967. List of foods used in Africa. Rome: FAO.

  • Keding, G., K. Weinberger, I. Swai, and H. Mndiga. 2007. Diversity, traits and use of traditional vegetables in Tanzania. Technical Bulletin No. 40. Shanhua, Taiwan: AVRDC–WorldVegetableCenter.

  • Keding, G., M.B. Krawinkel, B.L. Maass, D. Virchow, and J.M. Msuya. 2009. Consumption of traditional and exotic vegetables and their perceived and real contributions to nutritional health in Tanzania. Acta Hortic. 806, 209–217. https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2009.806.25. (29 November 2018)

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Kerharo, J. and A. Bouquet. 1950. Plantes Médicinales et Toxiques de la Côte d’Ivoire–Haut Volta. Paris: Vigot Frères.

    Google Scholar 

  • Kibungu Kembelo, A.O. 2003. Quelques plantes médicinales du Bas–Congo et leurs usages. http://www.ethnopharmacologia.org/prelude/pdf/bibio-hk-61-kibungu.pdf (March 2018).

  • Kidane, B., L.J.G. van der Maesen, Z. Asfaw. M.S.M. Sosef, and T. van Andel. 2015. Wild and semi-wild leafy vegetables used by the Maale and Ari ethnic communities in southern Ethiopia. Genetic Resources and Crop Evolution 62(2): 221–234.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Kim, Y.N., D.W. Giraud, and J.A. Driskell. 2007. Tocopherol and carotenoid contents of selected Korean fruits and vegetables. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis 20(6): 458–465.

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Kokwaro, J.O. 2009. Medicinal plants of East Africa, 3rd ed. Nairobi: University of Nairobi Press.

    Google Scholar 

  • Konan, A.B., J.Y. Datté, and A.M. Offoumou. 2006. Action of the aqueous extract of Sesamum radiatum Schum. & Tonn. (Pedaliaceae) on the cardiovascular system of mammalians: Hypotensive effect. Current Bioactive Compounds 2: 263–267.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Konan, A.B., J.Y. Datté, and P.A. Yapo. 2008. Nitric oxide pathway-mediated relaxant effect of aqueous sesame leaves extract (Sesamum radiatum Schum. & Thonn.) in the guinea-pig isolated aorta smooth muscle. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine 8: 23.

    Article  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  • Konan, A.B., A.K. Amonkan, M.L.B. Ahui, G.M.K. Bouafou, L.K. Kouakou, F.Z. Kpahé, and J.Y. Datté. 2011. Myostimulating effect of Sesamum radiatum aqueous leaf extract in isolated guinea-pig taenia caeci contractile activity. African Journal of Traditional and Complementary Alternative Medicine 8(4): 377–385.

    Google Scholar 

  • Konan, A.B., A.K. Amonkan, M.N. Bléyéré, L.K. Kouakou, M.K.G. Bouafou, and J.Y. Datté. 2013. Sesamum radiatum leaves can help childbirth. International Research Journal of Pharmaceutical and Applied Science 3(4): 69–73.

    Google Scholar 

  • Konda ku Mbuta, A., K. Mwima, M. Bitengeli, I. Y’okolo, M. Kavuna, M. Mandanga, K. Mpoyi, N. Izamajole, K. Kazembe, K. Booto, N. Vasaki, B. Mwabonsika, D. Lody, and P. Latham. 2012. Plantes médicinales de traditions. Province de l’Equateur. Kinshasa, DR Congo: Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé (IRSS) in Kinshasa.

    Google Scholar 

  • Kubmarawa, D., I.F.H. Andenyang, and A.M. Magomya. 2008. Amino acid profile of two non-conventional leafy vegetables, Sesamum indicum and Balanites aegyptiaca. African Journal of Biotechnology 7(19): 3502–3504.

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Kwak, Y., S. Ki, E.K. Noh, H.N. Shin, Y. Han, Y. Lee, and J. Ju. 2013. Comparison of antioxidant and anti-proliferative activities of perilla (Perilla frutescens Britton) and sesame (Seasamum indicum L.) leaf extracts. Korean Journal of Food and Cookery Science 29(3): 241–248.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Lewu, F.B. and A.J. Afolayan. 2009. Ethnomedicine in South Africa: The role of weedy species. African Journal of Biotechnology 8(6): 929–934.

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Lotter, D.W., M.I. Marshall, S. Weller, and A. Mugisha. 2014. African indigenous and traditional vegetables in Tanzania: Production, post-harvest management and marketing. African Crop Science Journal 22(3): 181–189.

    Google Scholar 

  • Malan, D.F. 2009. Religion traditionnelle et gestion durable des ressources floristiques en Côte d’Ivoire: Le cas des Ehotilé, riverains du Parc National des Îles Ehotilé. VertigO – la revue électronique en sciences de l’environnement 9(2).

  • Malan, D.F. and D.F.R. Neuba. 2011. Traditional practices and medicinal plants use during pregnancy by Anyi-Ndenye women (Eastern Côte d’Ivoire). African Journal of Reproductive Health 15(1): 85–94.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Masondo, N.A., J.F. Finnie, and J. Van Staden. 2016. Nutritional and pharmacological potential of the genus Ceratotheca—An underutilized leafy vegetable of Africa. Journal of Ethnopharmacology 178: 209–221.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Masoodi, M., B. Ahmad, S.R. Mir, B.A. Zargar, and N. Tabasum. 2011. Portulaca oleracea L. A review. Journal of Pharmacy Research 4(9): 3044–3048.

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Mathias, M.E. 1982. Some medicinal plants of the Hehe (Southern Highlands Province, Tanzania). Taxon 31(3): 488–494.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • McGaw, L.J., A.K. Jäger, and J. Van Staden. 2000. Antibacterial, anthelminthic and anti-amoebic activity in South African medicinal plants. Journal of Ethnopharmacology 72(1–2): 247–263.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Mensah, J.K., R.I. Okoli, J.O. Ohaju-Obodo, and K. Eifediyi. 2008. Phytochemical, nutritional and medical properties of some leafy vegetables consumed by Edo people of Nigeria. African Journal of Biotechnology 7(14): 2304–2309.

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Mitchikpe, E.C.S., R.A.M. Dossa, E.A.D. Ategbo, J.M.A. van Raaij, P.J.M. Hulshof, and F. J. Kok. 2008. The supply of bioavailable iron and zinc may be affected by phytate in Beninese children. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis 21: 17–25.

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Mkamilo, G.S. and D. Bedigian. 2007. Sesamum indicum L. In: Vegetable oils, eds. H.A.M. van der Vossen, and G.S. Mkamilo, 14:153–158. Wageningen: Plant Resources of Tropical Africa.

    Google Scholar 

  • Mohanlall, V. and B. Odhav. 2013. Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of anthraquinones from Ceratotheca triloba (Bernh) Hook F. Journal of Medicinal Plant Research 7(14): 877–886.

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Mohanlall, V., P. Steenkamp, and B. Odhav. 2011. Isolation and characterization of anthraquinone derivatives from Ceratotheca triloba (Bernh.) Hook.f. Journal of Medicinal Plants Research 5(14): 3132–3141.

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Morris, B. 1989. Medicines and herbalism in Malawi. Society of Malaŵi Journal 42(2): 34–54.

    Google Scholar 

  • ———. 1996. Chewa medical botany: A study of herbalism in southern Malawi. Hamburg: Monographs from the International African Institute 2, LIT.

    Google Scholar 

  • Morton, J.F. 1990. Mucilaginous plants and their uses in medicine. Journal of Ethnopharmacology 29: 245–266.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Msonthi, J.D. 1994. Research into medicinal plants of Malawi. Proceedings of the XIIIth plenary meeting of AETFAT, Zomba, Malawi, 2–11 April 1991: Plants for people, eds. J.H. Seyani, and A.C. Chicuni, 1:223–231. Zomba, Malawi: National herbarium and Botanic Gardens of Malawi.

    Google Scholar 

  • Muchuweti, M. A. Kasiamhuru, M. A. N. Benhura, B. Chipurura, P. Amuna, F. Zotor, and W. Parawira. 2009. Assessment of the nutritional value of wild leafy vegetables consumed in the Buhera District of Zimbabwe: A preliminary study. Acta Horticulturae. https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2009.806.40.

  • Muimba-Kankolongo, A. 2018. Food crop production by smallholder farmers in southern Africa. Challenges and opportunities for improvement. Cambridge, MA: Academic Press.

    Google Scholar 

  • Murengezi, I. 1993. Etude de l’activité antibacterienne de quelques plantes utilisées en médecine traditionnelle rwandaise. Revue de Médecine et de Pharmacie Afrique 7(1): 3–10.

    Google Scholar 

  • Nacoulma-Ouedraogo, O., J. Millogo-Rasolodimby, and S. Guinko. 1997–1998. Les plantes herbacées dans la thérapie des piqûres d’insectes. Revue de Médecine et de Pharmacie Afrique 11–12: 165–176.

    Google Scholar 

  • National Food and Nutrition Commission (NFNC). 2009. Food composition tables, 4th Edn. Lusaka, Zambia: National Food and Nutrition Commission.

    Google Scholar 

  • Nep, E.I., K. Asare-Addo, N.D. Ngwuluka, B.R. Conway, and A.M. Smith. 2016a. Evaluation of sesamum gum as an excipient in matrix tablets. British Journal of Pharmacy 1: 74–83.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Nep, E.I., S.M. Carnachan, N.C. Ngwuluka, V. Kontogiorgos, G.A. Morris, I.M. Sims, and A.M. Smith. 2016b. Structural characterisation and rheological properties of a polysaccharide from sesame leaves (Sesamum radiatum Schumach. & Thonn.). Carbohydrate Polymers 152(5): 541–547.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Neumann, K. 2004. The romance of farming: Plant cultivation and domestication in Africa. In: African archaeology: A critical introduction, ed. A.B. Stahl, 249–275. Oxford: Blackwell.

    Google Scholar 

  • Ngwuluka, N.C., E.O. Ugwuagbo, E.I. Nep, P.O. Olorunfemi, P.O. Odumosu, and N.A. Ochekpe. 2015. Natural polymer from Sesamum radiatum as an emulsifier and stabilizer in fabrication of macroemulsions. British Journal of Pharmaceutical Research 8(4): 1–11.

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Nordeide, M.B., A. Hatløy, M. Følling, E. Lied, and A. Oshaug. 1996. Nutrient composition and nutritional importance of green leaves and wild food resources in an agricultural district, Koutiala, in Southern Mali. International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition 47(6): 455–468.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Ntwenya, J.E., J. Kinabo, J. Msuya, P. Mamiro, D. Mamiro, E. Njoghomi, P. Liwei, and M. Huang. 2017. Rich food biodiversity amid low consumption of food items in Kilosa District, Tanzania. Food and Nutrition Bulletin 1–11.

  • Nwankwo, R.N., B. Danrimi, and J.I. Nwankwo. 2015. Nutrient and phytochemical determination of two under-utilized green leafy vegetables Cassia tora and Sesamum indicum with medicinal potentials in Mubi Adamawa state of Nigeria. Greener Journal of Epidemiology and Public Health 3(2): 14–21.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Nzuki, B.F. 2016. Recherches ethnobotaniques sur les plantes médicinales dans la Région de Mbanza-Ngungu, DRC. Ph.D. thesis, University of Ghent, Belgium.

  • Obi, R.K., I.I. Iroagba, and O.A. Ojiako. 2006. Virucidal potential of some edible Nigerian vegetables. African Journal of Biotechnology 5(19): 1785–1788.

    Google Scholar 

  • Ochieng, R.A. 1997. An ethnobotanical and phytochemical study of medicinal plants used to treat gastrointestinal disorders in children in Siaya District, Kenya. M.S. thesis, University of Nairobi.

  • Odhav, B., S. Beekrum, U. Akula, and H. Baijnath. 2007. Preliminary assessment of nutritional value of traditional leafy vegetables in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Journal of Food Composition 20: 430–435.

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Odugbemi, T. 2008. A textbook of medicinal plants from Nigeria. Lagos: University of Lagos Press.

    Google Scholar 

  • Oduntan, A.O., A. Akinwande, and O. Olalaye. 2011. Effect of plant maturity on the antioxidant properties, total phenolic and mineral contents of Sesamum radiatum leaves. African Journal of Food Science 5(17): 914–920.

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Oduntan, A.O., O. Olalaye, and B.A. Akinwande. 2012. Effect of plant maturity on the proximate composition of Sesamum radiatum Schum leaves. Journal of Food Studies 1(1): 69–76.

    Google Scholar 

  • Oduntan, A.O., O. Olalaye, B.A. Akinwande, and S.B. Fasoyiro. 2014. Effect of plant maturity on the antinutritent of Sesamum radiatum leaves. Global Journal of Scientific Researches 2(1): 7–11.

    Google Scholar 

  • Ogoye-Ndegwa, D. and J. Aagaard-Hansen. 2003. Traditional gathering of wild vegetables among the Luo of Western Kenya—A nutritional anthropology project. Ecology of Food and Nutrition 42(1): 69–89.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ogunlesi, M., W. Okiei, and E. Adejoke Osibote. 2010. Analysis of the essential oil from the leaves of Sesamum radiatum, a potential medication for male infertility factor, by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. African Journal of Biotechnology 9(7): 1060–1067.

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Ogunsola, O.K. and T.R. Fasola. 2014. The antibacterial activities of Sesamum indicum Linn. leaf extracts. Advances in Life Science and Technology 18: 28–32.

    Google Scholar 

  • Ohkawa, A., T. Sakai, K. Ohyama, and Y. Fujimoto. 2012. Malonylated glycerolipids from the glandular trichome exudate of Ceratotheca triloba. Chemistry & Biodiversity 9(8): 1611–1617.

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Orech, F.O., J. Ochora, T. Akenga, J. Aagaard-Hansen, and H. Friis. 2005. Ecobiodiversity of domesticated and wild traditional leafy vegetables of Nyang’oma, Western Kenya. In: Proceedings of the Third Horticulture Workshop on Sustainable Horticultural Production in the Tropics, 26th–29th November 2003, eds. M.O. Abukutsa-Onyango, A.N. Muriithi, K. Ngamau, V. Anjichi, S.G. Agong, A. Fricke, B. Hau, and H. Stützel, 49–59. Maseno, Kenya: Maseno University.

  • Orech, F.O., D.L. Christensen, T. Larsen, H. Friis, J. Aagaard-Hansen, and B.A. Estambale. 2007. Mineral content of traditional leafy vegetables from western Kenya. International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition 58(8): 595–602.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Osibote, E.A.S., M. Ogunlesi, W. Okiei, T. Asekun, and O.B. Familoni. 2010. Assessment of antimicrobial activity of the essential oil from the stem powder of Cissus populnea and the leaves of Sesamum radiatum, herbal medications for male infertility factor. Research Journal of Medicinal Plant 4(1): 14–20.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Owuor, B.O. and E. Olaimer-Anyara. 2007. The value of leafy vegetables: an exploration of African folklore. Developing African leafy vegetables for improved nutrition. Regional Workshop, 6–9 December 2005, eds. R. Oniang’o, M. Grum, and E. Obel-Lawson, 33–38. African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development 7(3–4).

  • p’Bitek, O. 1993. Artist, the ruler: Essays on art, culture and values. Nairobi: East African Educational Publishers, Ltd.

    Google Scholar 

  • ———. 1994. Horn of my love. London: Heinemann.

    Google Scholar 

  • Polygenis-Bigendako, M.J. 1990. Recherches ethnopharmacognosiques sur les plantes utilisées en médecine traditionnelle au Burundi occidental. Ph.D. thesis, Université libre de Bruxelles, Faculté des Sciences, Laboratoire de Botanique Systématique et de Phytosociologie. Cited by Prelude Medicinal Plants Database: http://www.africamuseum.be/collections/external/prelude/view_mu?id=518470 (March 2018).

  • Pooley, E. 1998. A field guide to wildflowers: KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Region. Durban: Natal Flora Publications Trust.

    Google Scholar 

  • Powell, B., P. Maundu, H.V. Kuhnlein, and T. Johns. 2013. Wild foods from farm and forest in the East Usambara Mountains, Tanzania. Ecology of Food and Nutrition 52(6): 451–478.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Riley, B.W. and D. Brokensha. 1988. The Mbeere in Kenya. Vol. 1: Changing rural ecology. Vol. 2: Botanical identities and uses. Lanham, Maryland: University Press of America.

    Google Scholar 

  • Roberts, M. 1990. Indigenous healing plants. Halfway House: Southern Book Publishers.

    Google Scholar 

  • Rodegem, F.M. 1970. Dictionnaire Rundi–Français. Annales du Musée royal de l’Afrique centrale, Tervuren (Belgique). Série in – 8°, Sc. humaines, n° 69.

  • Ruffo, C.K. 1991. A survey of medicinal plants in Tabora region, Tanzania. Traditional medicinal plants. In: Proceedings of an International Conference of Experts from Developing Countries on Traditional Medicinal Plants, Arusha, Tanzania, 18–23 February 1990, ed. Ministry of Health, Tanzania. Dar es Salaam: Dar es Salaam University Press.

  • Sena, L.P., D.J. Vanderjagt, C. Rivera, A.T.C. Tsin, I. Muhamadu, M. Millson, A. Pastuszyn, and R.H. Glew. 1998. Analysis of nutritional components of eight famine foods of the Republic of Niger. Plant Foods for Human Nutrition 52: 17–30.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Sewani-Rusike, C.R. 2010. Plants of Zimbabwe as anti-fertility agents. African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines 7(3): 253–257.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Shittu, L.A.J., M.A. Bankole, T. Ahmed, M.N. Bankole, R.K. Shittu, C.L. Saalu, and O.A. Ashiru. 2007. Antibacterial and antifungal activities of essential oils of crude extracts of Sesame radiatum against some common pathogenic micro-organisms. Iranian Journal Pharmacology & Therapeutics 6: 165–170.

    Google Scholar 

  • Shittu, L.A.J., R.K. Shittu, O. Ogundipe, O.A. Tayo, and A.A.A. Osunubi. 2009. Hypoglycaemia and improved testicular parameters in Sesamum radiatum treated normo-glycaemic adult male Sprague Dawley rats. African Journal of Biotechnology. 8: 2878–2886.

    Google Scholar 

  • Simopoulos, A.P., H.A. Norman, and J.A. Gillaspy. 1995. Purslane in human nutrition and its potential for world agriculture. In: Plants in human nutrition, world review of nutrition and dietetics, ed. A.P. Simopoulos, 77:47–74. Basel and New York: S. Karger.

    Google Scholar 

  • Smith, G.C., M.S. Clegg, C.L. Keen, and L.C. Grivetti. 1996. Mineral values of selected plant foods common to southern Burkina Faso and to Niamey, Niger, West Africa. International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition 47: 41–53.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Sossa-Vihotogbé, A.N.C., B.V. Anihouvi, H.N. Akissoe, L.G. Amadji, and D.J. Hounhouigan. 2013. Effect of organic and mineral fertilization on proximate composition of three leafy vegetables harvested at different periods. International Journal of Biological and Chemical Sciences 7(1): 271–286.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Souza, E.N.F. and J.A. Hawkins. 2017. Comparison of herbarium label data and published medicinal use: Herbaria as an underutilized source of ethnobotanical information. Economic Botany 71(1): 1–12.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  • Stevels, J.M.C. 1990. Pedaliaceae. Légumes traditionnels du Cameroun, une étude agro-botanique. Wageningen Agricultural University Papers 90(1): 188–200.

    Google Scholar 

  • Stromgaard, P. 1985. A subsistence society under pressure: The Bemba of northern Zambia. Africa 55(1): 39–59. doi:https://doi.org/10.2307/1159838.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Sultana, A. and K. Rahman. 2013. Portulaca oleracea Linn.: A global panacea with ethnomedicinal and pharmacological potential. International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences 5(Supplement 2): 33–39.

    Google Scholar 

  • Szczesniak, A.S. 2002. Texture is a sensory property. Food Quality and Preference 13: 215–225.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Tabuti, J.R.S., K.A. Lye, and S.S. Dhillion. 2003. Traditional herbal drugs of Bulamogi, Uganda: Plants, use and administration. Journal of Ethnopharmacology 88: 19–44.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Teklehaymanot, T. 2009. Ethnobotanical study of knowledge and medicinal plants use by the people in Dek Island in Ethiopia. Journal of Ethnopharmacology 124: 69–78.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Toury, J., P. Lunven, and R. Giorgi. 1961. Aliments de cueillette et de complement au Sénégal et zone Sahélienne. Qualitas Plantarum et Materiae Vegetabilis, Dakar 8: 139–156.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Toyin, Y.M., O.F. Khadijat, S.S. Saoban, A.T. Olakunle, B.F. Abraham, and Q.A. Luqman. 2012. Antidiarrheal activity of aqueous leaf extract of Ceratotheca sesamoides in rats. Bangladesh Journal of Pharmacology 7(1): 14–20.

    Google Scholar 

  • Traoré, K., C. Parkouda, A. Savadogo, F. Ba/Hama, R. Kamga, and Y. Traoré. 2017. Effect of processing methods on the nutritional content of three traditional vegetables leaves: Amaranth, black nightshade and jute mallow. Food Science and Nutrition 00: 1–6.

    Google Scholar 

  • Uddin, M.K., A.S. Juraimi, M.S. Hossain, M.A. Un Nahar, M.E. Ali, and M.M. Rahman. 2014. Purslane weed (Portulaca oleracea): A prospective plant source of nutrition, omega-3 fatty acid, and antioxidant attributes. The Scientific World Journal 2014, Article ID 951019.

  • Upadhyay, R.K. 2017. Nutritional, therapeutic, and pharmaceutical potential of plant gums: A review. International Journal of Green Pharmacy 11(1) Suppl:S30–S48.

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Uusiku N.P., A. Oelofse, K.G. Duodu, M.J. Bester, and M. Faber. 2010. Nutritional value of leafy vegetables of sub-Saharan Africa and their potential contribution to human health: A review. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis 23: 499–509.

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Uzo, J.O., D.K. Adedzwa, and R.O. Onwukwe. 1985. Yield, yield components, and nutritional attributes of cultivated sesame, S. indicum and its endemic wild relatives in Nigeria. In: Sesame and safflower: Status and potentials; Proceedings of expert consultation, ed., A. Ashri, 166–173. Rome: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.

  • Van Beek, W.E.A. 1991. Iron, brass and burial: The Kapsiki blacksmith and his many crafts. In: Forges et forgerons, ed. Y. Moñino, 281–310. Actes du 4e Colloque Méga-Tchad 1988, Vol. 1. Paris: ORSTOM Éditions.

  • Wyk, B.E. van and N. Gericke. 2000. Peoples Plants: A guide to useful plants of Southern Africa. Pretoria: Brizza Publication.

    Google Scholar 

  • Vihotogbe-Sossa, C.N.A., N.H. Akissoe, V.B. Anihouvi, B.C. Ahohuendo, A. Ahanchede, A. Sanni, and D. Joseph Hounhouigan. 2012. Endogenous knowledge of four leafy vegetables used by rural populations in Benin. Ecology of Food and Nutrition 51(1): 22–39.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  • Wachsmann, K. 1954. Oketo lamola lijai (They scattered simsim about). Klaus Wachsmann Uganda Field Recordings. British Library Sounds. https://sounds.bl.uk/World-and-traditional-music/Wachsmann/025M-C0004X0056XX-1900V0 (March 2018, April 2018, October 2018).

  • Wenzel, G.E., J.D. Fontana, and J.B.C. Correa. 1990. The viscous mucilage from the weed Portulaca oleracea, L. Applied Biochemistry and Biotechnology 24/25: 341–353.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Woolfe, M.L., M.F. Chaplin, and G. Otchere. 1977. Studies on the mucilages extracted from okra fruits (Hibiscus esculentus L.) and baobab leaves (Adansonia digitata L.). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture 28: 519–529.

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Yadang, G., J.B. Tchatchueng, and C. Tchiegang. 2009. Protein, carbohydrate, fat and energy content of “ready-to-eat foods” in Cameroonian Sahel’s region. Journal of Food Technology 7: 1–4.

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Yang, R.Y. and G.B. Keding. 2009. Nutritional contributions of important African indigenous vegetables. In: African indigenous vegetables in urban agriculture, eds. C.M. Shackleton, M.W. Pasquini, and A.W. Drescher, 105–143. London and Sterling, VA: Earthscan.

    Google Scholar 

  • Yazzie, D., D.J. VanderJagt, A. Pastuszyn, A. Okolo, and R.H. Glew. 1994. The amino acid and mineral content of baobab (Adansonia digitata L.) leaves. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis 7: 189–193.

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  • Zerbo, P., J. Millogo-Rasolodimby, O.G. Nacoulma-Ouédraogo, and P. van Damme. 2011. Plantes médicinales et pratiques médicales au Burkina Faso: Cas des Sanan. Bois et Forêts des Tropiques 307(1).

Download references

Acknowledgements

I gratefully acknowledge the Missouri Botanical Garden, where herbarium study commenced in 1978. Kenya’s National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation, and National Museums of Kenya; Sudan’s Ministry of Agriculture, and Agricultural Research Corporation; Tanzania’s Commission for Science and Technology; and Uganda’s National Council for Science and Technology, granted research permits.

Christopher Ehret, UCLA, scholar of African history and African historical linguistics known particularly for his efforts to correlate linguistic taxonomy, has generously commented on these vernacular names for nearly two decades. The Missouri Botanical Garden and New York Public Library provided reference support. N.R. Farnsworth granted access to the NAPRALERT database for 2 months (2007). F. Abiodun shared unpublished data about nutritional constituents of sesame leaves (2018). Input by colleagues and reviewers enriched the manuscript. Lastly, the ingenious practical knowledge of African peoples is rightfully applauded.

Funding

The African Studies Program, University of Illinois initiated this study with a Regional Africanist Fellowship for library research (1992). The Knight Foundation covered travel expenses to Kenya (1993); the Institute for Advanced Study, and the Botany Department at Maseno University, hosted me for 9 weeks, supported by Antioch College Faculty Development Award (1994). National Geographic Society Research and Exploration Grants NGS #6218-98, NGS #7732-04, and NGS #9813-15 financed recent fieldwork.

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Missouri Botanical Garden, St. Louis, Missouri, USA

    Dorothea Bedigian

Authors
  1. Dorothea Bedigian
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Dorothea Bedigian.

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Check for updates. Verify currency and authenticity via CrossMark

Cite this article

Bedigian, D. Feeding the Forgotten: Wild and Cultivated Ceratotheca and Sesamum (Pedaliaceae) That Nourish and Provide Remedies in Africa. Econ Bot 72, 496–542 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12231-018-9437-z

Download citation

  • Received:

  • Accepted:

  • Published:

  • Issue Date:

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12231-018-9437-z

Key Words

Search

Navigation