Transvaal red milkwood (Mimusops zeyheri Sond.,) in the Mpumalanga province, South Africa: perceptions of its ethnomedicinal uses and conservation

Mimusops zeyheri, commonly known as the Transvaal red milkwood, is a culturally and ecologically significant wild fruit tree native to southern Africa. This study investigated ethnomedicinal uses and conservation challenges associated with M. zeyheri in Gutshwa village, Mpumalanga Province, South Africa. Information was collected through semi-structured questionnaires during various interview sessions with 58 participants. Demographic variables, including age, gender, and education, were recorded to provide context for participant profiles. The study results highlighted that M. zeyheri is predominantly used for skin conditions and wound care (32%). In comparison, a smaller percentage (15%) of participants reported using it to treat pain and inflammation, reproductive health issues, and respiratory problems. Oral administration was the most cited method (55%), followed by topical application (20%). Fruits (35%) and leaves (22%) were the plant parts most frequently cited, reflecting community preferences rooted in long-standing ethnomedicinal traditions. High fidelity levels (FL) were observed for the treatment of painful gums (64%) and blood pressure management (44%), indicating strong cultural consensus on the effectiveness of these uses and the central role of M. zeyheri in local healthcare practices. Conservation concerns were underscored by threats such as land expansion (31%), wildfires (28%), and overharvesting (23%), which are perceived to impact the local distribution of the species severely. Despite these challenges, the participants demonstrate substantial knowledge of ethnomedicine and sustainable harvesting techniques. These findings underscore the ecological, cultural, and medicinal importance of M. zeyheri, highlighting the urgent need for conservation strategies. Promoting community-based sustainable harvesting and integrating traditional knowledge into modern healthcare systems could protect this species while preserving its socio-economic and ecological value. Further pharmacological research is warranted to validate its bioactive properties and therapeutic potential.