Ethnobotanical documentation and quantitative analysis of medicinal plants used to treat rheumatic disorders in the central Algerian steppe

Abstract

Background: Rheumatic disorders are commonly managed with medicinal plants in North African semi-arid regions, where traditional knowledge remains integral to primary healthcare. Documenting these practices preserves biocultural heritage and helps identify culturally salient taxa and preparation modes relevant for future pharmacological research. This study documented medicinal plants used for rheumatic disorders in the central Algerian steppe, quantified their cultural prominence using standard ethnobotanical indices, and characterized practice regimes through composite practice indicators and multivariate profiling.

Methods: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted between 2024 and 2025 in the M’sila-Bousaâda provinces. Structured interviews with 310 informants recorded sociodemographic data and detailed information on plant use, preparation, and administration. Species were identified using regional floras. Relative frequency of citation (RFC), family importance value (FIV), and plant part value (PPV) were calculated. Four practice indicators were analyzed using latent profile analysis, with principal component analysis for visualization.

Results: Thirty species from 21 families were recorded, with Lamiaceae most represented, followed by Amaryllidaceae, Asteraceae, Myrtaceae, and Zingiberaceae. The most cited species were Lepidium sativum (RFC = 0.152), Peganum harmala (0.103), Olea europaea (0.103), and Thapsia garganica (0.087). The results revealed a preference for the use of leaves (PPV = 0.304) and aerial parts (PPV = 0.266) in the treatment of rheumatic disorders. Leaves and aerial parts predominated. Decoctions and infusions were the main preparation modes, and topical massage was the most common administration route. Three practice regimes were identified, ranging from low-intensity household care to more elaborated and socially mediated use.

Conclusions: The findings provide an updated ethnobotanical baseline related to rheumatic disorder, highlight differentiated modes of therapeutic engagement, and underscore the relevance of a practice-oriented approach in ethnobotanical research.

Keywords: Ethnobotanical survey, medicinal plants, rheumatic disorders, practice regimes, steppe, Algeria