The plant-based traditional knowledge of many Cameroonian populations concerning\nbeauty and skin care is still poorly documented, yet they are real resources of innovation and\neconomic development. The aim of this study is to document the indigenous knowledge of Choa\nArab and Kotoko ethnic group in Kouss�©ri (Far North Region of Cameroon) about plants used for\ncosmetics. Ethnobotanical data collected among key informants revealed a total of 13 plants species\nbelonging to 12 families used by local people. Canarium schweinfurthii Engl and Santalum album L.\nobtained the highest frequency of citation. Trees are the most abundant life forms, while barks and\nseeds are the most frequently used parts. More than 40% of recorded plants are used for skin care.\nThe cosmetic allegations of recorded plants include: dermatology, anti-cancers, antioxidant agent,\nperfume, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, wounds healing activity, skin lightening, dental caries,\nastringent and hair care. They all contain various phytochemicals that are of interest in cosmetics.\nDespite the strong relationship between the Choa Arab and Kotoko people and herbal cosmetic\ningredients, these plants are still less investigated for their cosmetic application. The authors urge\nfor the development of sustainable supply chain for plants with potentials as cosmetics, involving\nlocal communities in the planning, implementation and monitoring process, following principles of\nNagoya protocol on Access and Benefit Sharing.
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