An ethnobotanical survey of plants used by Abagusii traditional herbalists of South West Kenya in the treatment of influenza and other inflammatory conditions was carried out. Traditional healers were interviewed about the plants that they utilized in the treatment of influenza and other inflammatory conditions, method of preparation and dosage regimens. Their responses were recorded. Each material medica entry followed the following format; Latin binomial; Common name; Vernacular and taxonomic name; parts used; constituents; indications; safety considerations; preparation and dosage. Thirteen medicinal plant species were botanically identified. It was established that this ethnic group greatly depended on herbal remedies for the treatment of influenza and other inflammatory conditions The study revealed that the Abagusii traditional healers have an extensive knowledge of their flora. This study also noted that there was a rapid degeneration of most indigenous herbal medicinal plants, hence the need for their conservation.
Keywords: Abagusii, Herbalists, Influenza, Medicinal plants, Kenya