Validating traditional knowledge: Rwanda

Document Abstract / Summary Overview

SUMMARY Research on traditional medicine in Rwanda began in 1972 and was formalized in 1982 with the creation of the Centre Pharmacopée, which has since been renamed the Centre for Research in Phytomedicines and Life Sciences. The overall aim of the project is to exploit local plant species and traditional botanical knowledge. The main objectives are to: • promote Rwandan traditional medicine; • investigate the botany and agronomy of the flora traditionally used in Rwandan herbal medicine; • research the efficacy of medicinal plants used to treat both infectious and non-infectious diseases; • study Rwanda’s aromatic plants and, it is hoped, exploit their essential oils; • develop techniques for producing medicines, pesticides and other products from local plants for commercial sale; and • develop a national pharmacopoeia for Rwanda. Since the start of the project, ten medicines and several herbal teas have been made available on the local market and a technology for extracting essential oils has been developed. In the wider community, the project has helped to improve the way of life of the local population by providing low-cost medicinal products and a market for the cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants.