Abstract

The study focused on perceived impact of utilisation of some selected indigenous spices on the well-being of rural households in Oyo State. Two hundred (200) rural households were sampled using a four-stage sampling procedure. Data were collected on respondents’ socioeconomic characteristics, awareness, perceived benefits and wellbeing outcomes using structured questionnaire. Results revealed that 63.5% of the respondents were female, 57.5% were married, 40.0% had diplomas, mean household size of 4.67 people, 32.0% were artisans while 28.0% were farmers. Awareness was high about ginger (90.5%) and onions (90.5%), while reduction in the use of artificial flavouring was the leading ( = 1.50) perceived benefit. Improved digestion and reduced gastro-intestinal discomfort was the leading ( = 4.29) well-being outcome of use of indigenous spices among respondents. There was a significant relationship between physical wellbeing (r = 0.338; p=0.021), mental wellbeing (r = 0.444; p=0.010), social wellbeing (r = 0.518; p=0.000), spiritual wellbeing (r = 0.499; p=0.005) and the extent of use of indigenous spices. The study concluded that the perceived use of selected indigenous spices significantly enhances the overall wellbeing of rural households, thus, affirming their vital role in promoting health and quality of life in traditional food systems. The study recommended that government and development stakeholders should invest in promoting the use of indigenous spices through education and community outreach, leveraging their proven benefits to support rural health and sustainable well-being.

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