Diversity and socio-economic aspects of toothpicks plant species in Abidjan district markets (Côte d'Ivoire, Africa)

Abstract

A study on the diversity of plant species used as toothpick in the markets of the Abidjan District (Côte d'Ivoire) was performed. The aim of the study was to contribute to the sustainable management of plant resources used in the form of toothpicks to resolve oral hygiene problems and other pathologies encountered in Côte d'Ivoire. During the fieldwork in the study site, an ethnobotanical survey has been realized using a pre-established questionnaire, involving 150 people at markets in three communes in Abidjan district (Adjamé, Abobo and Yopougon). The study identified 45 species belonging to 43 genera and 18 families. The Fabaceae family is the most represented. The most used species are Parinari curatellifolia (Chrysobalanaceae) and Croton pseudopulchellus (Euphorbiaceae). The Shannon index values calculated show a variation in the diversity of species used in the form of toothpick depending on the municipalities (F = 71.19; P < 0.001). These toothpicks, used in the treatment of oral and dental disorders, erectile dysfunction and hypersalivation during pregnancy, are sold mainly by women. Many species used as toothpicks have been classified as “Least Concern” and “Vulnerable” by the IUCN. The most commonly used organ is the root (80%). The cost of these toothpicks varies from 0.04 to 0.83 $USD, making them accessible to all. It is therefore important to raise awareness of how these toothpick species are harvested, in order to prevent their disappearance.