Diverse cultures of South Africa have used indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) for centuries and central to this was the preservation of environment and adhering to certain cultural norms. The Indigenous knowledge systems were part of who they were, their lifestyles and formed part of their spirituality. It was used for medicinal purposes to address health challenges including treatment of livestock diseases amongst others. They were also used for agricultural purposes like fertilizers.

According to the Human Sciences Research Council in South Africa, studies have shown that traditional medicine play an important role in the management of certain ailments, while at the same time the sale of traditional and indigenous products has beneficial effects on poverty reduction and employment creation.

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