NAME :
CALVIN
SURNAME :
MHINGA
CANDIDATE NUMBER : 3066
CENTRE NUMBER :
050166
LEARNING AREA : CHEMISTRY
SCHOOL : CHEZIYA GOKWE HIGH SCHOOL
LEVEL
: ORDINARY
Stage 1 Problem identification
Many people in Cheziya Community are unaware of the medicinal properties of local herbs and
their potential uses in treating various diseases. People that are trying to use them are misusing
the medicinal herbs and some of the villagers are overdosing them resulting in allergies and
problems such as frequent diarrhoea.
Statement of Intent
The intent of this project is to investigate the medicinal properties of local herbs and their
potential uses in treating diseases and the dosage instructions, with the goal of promoting
awareness and utilization of these herbs among people Cheziya Community
Design specifications
The project aims to:
1. Identify local herbs with medicinal properties.
2. Investigate the diseases that these herbs can treat.
3. Develop a guide for students on the use of these herbs.
4. Evaluate the effectiveness of the guide.
Stage 2 investigation of related ideas
1. Moringa (Moringa oleifera).
Advantages: It is relatively easy to grow locally
:The leaves contain several nutrients and plant compounds.
: It is affordable and accessible to many communities.
Disadvantages:Traditional uses do not necessarily prove that it can treat a particular disease.
2 . Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is widely known for traditional use on minor skin problems. The clear gel inside the
leaves has been investigated for its soothing and skin-related properties.
Advantages:It is easy to grow around homes and gardens.
: The plant is readily available in many communities.
.Disadvantages:The yellow latex found beneath the leaf skin is different from the gel and can
cause harmful effects if misused.
3. Lemon Grass (Cymbopogon citratus)
Lemon grass is used traditionally in some communities as a herbal tea and for general wellness.
Studies have investigated compounds in lemon grass for possible antioxidant and antimicrobial
activities.
Advantages:It grows well in suitable local conditions.
: It is inexpensive and can be prepared as a tea.
Disadvantages:Scientific evidence for treating specific illnesses is limited.
:Concentrated preparations may not be suitable for everyone.
Stage 3 Generation of new ideas
Four new solutions to address the lack of awareness about medicinal herbs are:
1. Herbal Garden
Advantage: Provides a hands-on learning experience for students.
Disadvantage: Requires significant resources and maintenance.
2. Workshops and Seminars
Advantage: Provides an opportunity for students to learn from experts.
Disadvantage: May not be feasible or affordable for all students.
3. Mobile App
Advantage: Provides easy access to information about medicinal herbs.
Disadvantage: Requires technical expertise and resources.
4.Developing a Guidebook on Medicinal Herbs
Advantage:A guidebook provides easy-to-access information about medicinal herbs, including
their uses, preparation methods, and precautions. It can be kept and referred to whenever
needed.
Disadvantage:Producing a guidebook can be time-consuming and costly, especially when
researching information, collecting pictures, and printing the final copies.
Stage 4 Development of a selected idea
The selected solution is :
Developing a Guidebook on Medicinal Herbs
Refinements of the Solution
The guidebook will include:
1. Detailed information about local herbs and their medicinal properties.
2. Instructions on how to prepare and use the herbs.
3. Safety precautions and potential side effects.
Reasons for Choosing this Solution
This solution was chosen because it:
1. Provides a comprehensive and accessible resource for villagers
2. Can be easily distributed and shared.
3. Can be updated and revised as needed.
Stage5 Presentation of results
The guidebook for the correct usage of medicinal herbs.
Medicinal Herbs available in the
locality
The dosage instructions
Stage 6 Evaluation
6.1 Relevance to Statement of Intent
The project achieved its intent of promoting awareness and utilization of medicinal herbs
villagers in Cheziya community.
6.2 Problems Encountered
The project encountered problems related to limited resources
-accessing reliable informatio
- and ensuring accuracy and safety.
6.3 Suggestions
Based on the findings of this project, the following suggestions are made:
1. Develop a comprehensive database of medicinal herbs
Create a database that includes information about local herbs and their medicinal properties.
2. Provide training and workshops
Provide training and workshops for students and teachers on the use of medicinal herbs.
3. Collaborate with healthcare professionals
Collaborate with healthcare professionals to ensure the accuracy and safety of the information.