Development of a sustainable cultivation protocol for Artemisia afra in the Western Cape

The growing demand for medicinal plants in Africa, largely harvested from the wild, poses serious threats to biodiversity. This study focused on developing sustainable, organic cultivation methods for Artemisia afra in the Western Cape while promoting collaboration between traditional healers, small-scale farmers, and researchers. Four organic amendments: vermicompost, mushroom compost, poultry, and kraal manure were evaluated, with poultry manure significantly enhancing plant growth, secondary metabolite concentration, and antioxidant activity. A strong correlation was observed between secondary metabolites and antioxidant capacity, indicating improved phytochemical quality under organic cultivation. Complementary social research involving 75 traditional healers revealed that over half depend on wild plant collection for income, yet 96% expressed willingness to cultivate medicinal plants. Workshops conducted with 58 participants demonstrated the effectiveness of hands-on training in propagation, composting, and soil management, boosting confidence and interest in establishing indigenous plant nurseries. The study underscores the importance of integrating scientific and traditional knowledge to promote conservation, reduce reliance on wild populations, and empower communities through sustainable medicinal plant production.