Indigenous basils for women ailments: A case of women in Chivi Central District of Masvingo Province, Zimbabwe

Abstract

This paper focuses on the types of indigenous basils common among Shona women in Chivi Central District of Masvingo Province, Zimbabwe. The research looks at the nature of these belief systems which are common in the area and how they relate to women ailments in the society and the paper seeks to come up with an interpretation for the prevailing situation. Benefits of these MIKS among the selected community are also sought, together with the challenges posed by the phenomena. This study used two theories which are the Afrocentric theory and the Africana Womanism theory. The study employs the qualitative paradigm and uses open ended interviews with fifteen women from Chivi Central District, to solicit for information. Findings of this study show that in Chivi Central, elderly women are well versed with medicines for most common women diseases. The women are knowledgeable and are assisting fellow women with herbs in the community. The study concludes by highlighting ways of making sure that these IKS are not only for the elderly but are shared across all age groups for the benefit of every member and all generations, for the development of the society. The study, thus, calls for all women, regardless of age, to share this precious knowledge for the benefit of everyone in the society. This study proposes that all women regardless of age should share precious knowledge for the benefit society and the nation at large and should be used to generate income for women.