ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the medicinal plants used traditionally by the local communities in Central Sudan and presents an authentic review of 86 plants from 51 families, with their verified local names and the associated scientific names. In addition, the plant habitats and active constituents responsible for their pharmacological activity and approved global medicinal uses are summarized. The traditionally used native species included Solenostemma argel as an antispasmodic, Trigonella as a nutrient and lactagogue, Acacia spp. as a tanning agent, incense for flu, and antimicrobial activity, Nigella seeds as a diuretic, antidiabetic, and hypotensive agent, Hibiscus as a beverage for hypertension, Mentha spp., Cymbopogon, fennel, and ginger as spices and flavors with medicinal antispasmodic, expectorant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. Most common medicinal plant species came from either the family Lamiaceae or the Apiaceae. Since the herbal products have exhibited high quality, safety, and efficacy over many years, their use in combination with conventional therapy is likely to render the prevention and/or control of diseases more effective.
