Consumption Pattern and Indigenous Knowledge of Moringa Oleifera among Dwellers of Rural Enclaves around Ibadan Metropolis, Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Moringa oleifera is a perennial plant which has high economic and medicinal values in many countries of the world. This study was carried out to investigate the indigenous knowledge and consumption pattern of Moringa oleifera among dwellers in rural enclaves around Ibadan metropolis. The study covered 5 rural settlements around   Ibadan metropolis which are Gbopa, Olodo, Onipe, Ibuso gboro and Abapanu. 20 households were selected from each settlement to arrive at a total number of 100 questionnaires out of which 90 were retrieved. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis. It was discovered that Moringa oleifera has 2 local names in the area which are ‘’gbogbonise’’ and ‘’ewe igbale’’ but majority of the respondents knows the plant as Moringa. It was also found out from findings that most of the respondents use the plants because of the medicinal value attached to it. Education and household size positively and significantly influence Moringa consumption at 0.05 level of significance. The study therefore recommends that household members should try and get adequate training necessary for effective consumption of the plant.