Cadeia de comercialização da Euclea natalensis A.DC. (mulala) na cidade de Maputo e Matola

Abstract

Euclea natalensis A. DC. belongs to the Ebenaceae family and is commonly known as mulala in most parts of the country. It is frequently used for the treatment of toothaches and oral hygiene. In the cities of Maputo and Matola, it is sold in markets and cemeteries, and its economic value is unknown. Therefore, the objective of this study is to evaluate the economic value of mulala and its use value in the cities of Maputo and Matola. Data collection was carried out using semi-structured snowball interviews and the rapid participatory diagnostic technique, which took place over a period of 2 weeks in the markets of Xipamanine, Fajardo, Zimpeto, Xiquelene, Malhapsene (city of Maputo and Matola) and in the cemeteries of Lhanguene and Texilon. Mulala showed high use value for oral hygiene and an income ranging from 300 to 1000 meticais monthly. The roots of this plant originate from Maputo, Gaza, and Inhambane.