Traditional medicinal plants for asthma treatment: An ethnobotanical study from southern Benin

Background: Asthma is a public health issue. Conventional treatments are not only expensive but also have side effects. In southern Benin, traditional medicine remains a primary source of care for asthma. Despite the widespread use of indigenous flora, many of these medical species lack documentation. Objective: This study aimed to identify and document medicinal plants used for asthma management in southern Benin. Materials and Methods: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted in three major cities, Cotonou, Abomey-Calavi, and Porto-Novo, among 58 market herbalists, 15 plant users, and 9 traditional healers. Structured interviews collected socio-demographic information and therapeutic data. Results: A total of 61 plant species from 33 families, including Liliaceae, Anacardiaceae, Solanaceae, Myrtaceae, and Lamiaceae, were identified. The most frequently cited species were Pancratium trianthum (9.7%), Allium sativum (8.3%), Mangifera indica (6.0%), Citrus lemon (4.6%), and Allium cepa (4.2%). Leaves were the most commonly used plant part in treatments. Decoction was the predominant preparation method, and oral administration was most frequent. Conclusion: This inventory lays the groundwork for integrative pharmacology, where Benin's biodiversity becomes the foundation for new sustainable therapeutic solutions for asthma.