Design and Analysis of a Formal Computational Ontology Model for Yoruba Traditional Medicine

This study reported a formal computational ontology framework for the representation of concepts relationships and axioms/constraints for Yoruba Traditional Medicine (YTM). It also analyzed the concepts symptoms and processes in treating selected ailments with Yoruba herbal medicine designed a formal ontology model and implemented the model as well as validated the model. This was with a view to structuring and formalizing YTM knowledge in the health care management.Data collection methods included document inspections interactive discussions and physical observations from those who were rich in herbal medicine knowledge in South Western Nigeria. A conceptual model was developed to organize and structure YTM. The formal computational ontology model design was carried out using Web Ontology Language(OWL) integrated with Description Logics (DLs). The Protege 4.3 a knowledge-base editor was used to implement the model. The validation of the system was carried out using Proof-of-Concept (PoC) approach to determine the accuracy and consistency of the model. The result obtained from this study was Yoruba Traditional Medicine Ontology(YTMO) construction.