Knowledge in Local Healthcare as an Intangible Heritage: Utilizing Medicinal
Plants in Okpoga, Okpokwu Local Government Area, Benue State, Nigeria

M. J. Abah

Department of Archaeology, Faculty of Arts
Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
Email: [email protected], +2348033582437

Abstract
Knowledge is power and health they say, is wealth. Knowledge and skill are key to
economic and social development; they are heritage resources. This study examined
the knowledge of the Okpoga people in traditional herbal medicine. The specific
objectives were to: identify medicinal plants, assess the medicinal value of the plants
and classify the plants. Qualitative data was collected via oral interview with 24
medical practitioners and participants’ observation of some of the activities. Plant
samples were collected via a transect walk through the vegetation of the area. The
people had knowledge in the application of 33 medicinal plants for the treatment of
several ailments. The 33 plants can treat 43 different ailments including sickle cell
anaemia in the area.. They have also been able to reserve more income for other needs
and have experienced an improved living standard. This knowledge is a heritage in
Africa. As a repository of cultural heritage as well as a decision-making body, the
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) should
ensure that this knowledge is preserved and protected through proper patent right.