Skin Disease Prevalence amongst Rural Communities in KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa

Little information is known of skin diseases within rural communities in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. There is an urgent need to identify plants with antimicrobial activity as there is an increase in the incidence of new and re-emerging infectious diseases. The present study compares species from two different localities used to treat common skin diseases, the parts used, and the method used to prepare traditional cures. The prevalence of skin disease compared to other ailments were also compared. Traditional healers from northern (seven main districts) and mid-KwaZulu-Natal (three main districts) muthi markets were randomly selected and interviewed after obtaining consent. Data collected included the specific plants used to treat skin diseases, common names, parts of the plant used, the collection locality, and the conditions treated by the traditional healers. Fourteen plant species were collected and traded in northern KwaZulu-Natal based on their curative properties and their use to treat wounds, skin lesions, rashes, burns, and scratches compared to only six in mid-KwaZulu-Natal. Approximately 43 percent of species were common to all districts, possibly due to their wide distribution. People with skin diseases formed the majority of traditional healer consults. Most conditions were very similar, possibly due to rural communities following a similar lifestyle. Skin infections and eczema were commonly treated conditions, followed by acne, hair disorders, and bruises. Skin diseases are common amongst rural community dwellers in KwaZulu-Natal regardless of location, possibly due to their association with HIV infection. The plants used by traditional healers to treat various conditions are related to geographical distribution and abundance patterns.