Integrating Indigenous Medicinal Knowledge with Modern Obstetric Practice in Niger: An Ethnobotanical Study

Maternal healthcare in Niger confronts substantial challenges, with limited access to modern facilities. Indigenous medicinal knowledge is a primary healthcare resource, yet its relationship with formal obstetric practice is inadequately documented. This study aimed to systematically document and analyse plant-based medicinal knowledge used for obstetric purposes by indigenous communities in Niger, to identify potential points for integration with modern clinical practice. An ethnobotanical study was conducted using semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with traditional birth attendants, herbalists, and elder women across three ethnic communities. Botanical specimens were collected, identified, and vouchered. Data were analysed thematically. We documented 87 plant species from 41 families used to treat common obstetric and gynaecological conditions. Over 60% of recorded uses were for managing postpartum recovery and neonatal care. A key finding was the holistic application of plants, addressing both physiological recovery and socio-cultural rites following childbirth. Indigenous communities in Niger possess extensive, systematised knowledge of medicinal plants for obstetric care. This constitutes a significant, culturally embedded healthcare resource that operates in parallel to, rather than being integrated with, the formal medical system. Further pharmacological and clinical safety research on the most cited plants is required. We recommend establishing community-based programmes to foster dialogue between traditional practitioners and modern healthcare workers, ensuring any integration is respectful and evidence-based. Ethnobotany, maternal health, traditional medicine, medicinal plants, Niger, traditional birth attendants This study provides the first systematic documentation of indigenous obstetric plant use in Niger, offering a foundation for future research and culturally sensitive healthcare policy.