Review of folklore medicinal plants used in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, for the treatment of hemorrhoids

Background: Hemorrhoids are very common anorectal conditions. Its treatment ranges from dietary and lifestyle modification to radical surgery. In sub-saharan Africa, traditional medicine is a common resource for hemorrhoids management.

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the potential efficacy and mechanism of action of plants used by Bobo-Dioulasso traditional healers as treatment for hemorrhoids.

Methods: Data were collected through semi-directive interviews among randomly selected traditional healers belonging to traditional healers' associations in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso.

Results: Fourteen (14) plant species, belonging to 12 families were cited by traditional healers. The fidelity levels were high for Tamarix africana and Trichilia emetica, 100% and 76.5% respectively. No references to ethnomedical uses in hemorrhoids were found in the literature for 4 (28.6%) plants: Lophira alata, Opilia celtidifolia, Alchemilla mollis, Tamarix africana. Only Khaya senegalensis and Parkia biglobosa have shown antihemorrhoidal activity in animal models. Also, all the plants identified except Pseudocedrela kotschyi, (92.9%) were reported to exhibit anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antioxidant activities.

Conclusion: Although lack of human studies regarding the mentioned herbs is noted, positive results from experimental findings can be considered for new drug discovery supported by traditional experiences.