Indigenous Knowledge, Uses and Perceptions of Cissus Quadrangularis Among Elderly Community Members in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Abstract

The possible medicinal and culinary uses of indigenous edible plants have generated a renewed interest in ethnobotanical research. Cissus quadrangularis, a plant with significant potential, is becoming more popular because of its ability to improve the nutritional value of food items. By means of key informant interviews with senior Indian community members—who are the majority of C. quadrangularis consumers in South Africa—the exploratory qualitative study aims to determine knowledge, use, and perceptions of the plant in order to facilitate the development of food products. Data was processed using thematic analysis in qualitative research that included key informant interviews with members of the elderly Indian community in KwaZulu-Natal. The primary topics identified were indigenous knowledge, utilisation, food processing, and the toxicity of C. quadrangularis. The sub-themes addressed in this topic include plant identification, medicinal applications, health advantages, nutritional advantages, food sources, cooking techniques, recipes, food application recommendations, preparation methods, and adverse consequences. According to the findings of the study, the plant was widely used as a side dish by the participants, and they also reported using it for its nutritional benefits and therapeutic reasons, particularly for the goal of maintaining bone health. Chutneys, pastes, and fritters were among the most commonly consumed types of Indian food preparations made from the plant. These preliminary findings may be helpful in the development of suitable food products that make use of the advantageous qualities of Cissus quadrangularis, which has the potential to improve the quality of diet.