Indigenous systems of forest conservation: a tool for traditional medical practices in Akyem Abuakwa traditional area of Ghana

Abstract

Forest conservation is a very important concept across the world. It is not only crucial for climate change but also very critical for the survival of humanity.  In Africa, forests have always been an important aspect of nature that is regarded with uttermost reverence and care. Importantly, discussions  on health, healthcare, culture, economics and other factors have been associated with forests. Part of this benefit is the use of herbs from the forests for local medicinal purposes. The current study sought to ascertain the value of conserving forests resources for indigenous herbal medicine  among the Akyem Abuakwa people of Ghana. Among other things, it aimed at exploring the indigenous means or methods of conserving forests in  Africa. The study adopted a purely qualitative research approach, with a blend of interviews and secondary materials. From the current discourse, it was  revealed that African traditional medicine, both spiritual and physical, make very good use of the forests. From earliest times, several strategies and  indigenous knowledge systems were deployed to ensure a proper means for the protection of herbal plants, trees and animal parts to enhance the  practice of traditional medicine in Akyem Abuakwa. Based on the findings and discussions arising from the research, we argue that rigorous education  and orientation programmes toward the protection and sustenance of the forest environment should suffice. Howbeit, the discussions and debates  surrounding African indigenous forest conservation and its contribution to African medicinal resources appear to be complex. Such puzzlement must be  resolved with continuous research beyond this current contribution.