Traditional knowledge and medicinal practices related to the use of Wild Olive (Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata) in Central Ethiopia: An ethnobotanical perspective

Background: Wild olive (Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata) is widely cultivated across the Middle East and Africa due to its many uses. This present study aimed to explore traditional knowledge and medicinal practices surrounding O. europaea subsp. cuspidata in Central Ethiopia. Methods: Data were collected between June 2023 and August 2024 using quantitative and qualitative techniques, involving 1,567 respondents from indigenous communities across five zones and two districts. Purposive sampling was employed to select key informants. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to gather data on the medicinal uses of O. europaea subsp. cuspidate and knowledge transfer practices. Various ethnobotanical indices were calculated. Results: The results showed that most (71.6%) of the respondents believed that O. europaea subsp. cuspidata extracts cure diseases. The most frequently used plant parts were bark (32.3%) and leaves (28.9%). Regression analysis indicated that ethnobotanical indices, such as RSI and UR significantly influenced Cultural Value (p < 0.01). Education level showed a negative association, particularly among those with no formal education (AOR = 1.60, 95% CI: 1.20–2.30, p = 0.005), while occupation was another significant factor, with farmers (AOR = 1.75, 95% CI: 1.25–2.45, p = 0.005) and local healers (AOR = 1.60, 95% CI: 1.10–2.30, p = 0.015) being more likely to use O. europaea subsp. cuspidata knowledge. Conclusions: The study found O. europaea subsp. cuspidata is valued for treating backaches and elevated blood pressure. Knowledge transfer primarily occurred within families and bark was the plant tissue most frequently used. Keywords: Wild olive, Central Ethiopia, Traditional Knowledge, Medicinal Practice, Ethnobotanical