Ethnopharmacological Survey of Matricaria chamomilla L. in the Béja Governorate (Northwestern Tunisia): Traditional Uses, Preparation Methods, and Perceived Therapeutic Benefits

Authors

  • Ghofrane Khouildi Laboratory of Functional Physiology and Valorization of Bio-Resources (LR23ES08), Higher Institute of Biotechnology of Beja, University of Jendouba, Beja 9000, Tunisia
  • Fatma Arrari Laboratory of Functional Physiology and Valorization of Bio-Resources (LR23ES08), Higher Institute of Biotechnology of Beja, University of Jendouba, Beja 9000, Tunisia
  • Marwa Tabouii Laboratory of Functional Physiology and Valorization of Bio-Resources (LR23ES08), Higher Institute of Biotechnology of Beja, University of Jendouba, Beja 9000, Tunisia
  • Chaabni Asma Laboratory of Natural Substances, National Institute of Research and Physico-Chemical Analysis, Sidi Thabet, Tunisia
  • Karima Maaroufi Laboratory of Functional Physiology and Valorization of Bio-Resources (LR23ES08), Higher Institute of Biotechnology of Beja, University of Jendouba, Beja 9000, Tunisia https://orcid.org/0009-0001-8579-465X

Abstract

Background: Matricaria chamomilla L. (chamomile) is among the most widely used medicinal plants, valued for calming, anti‑inflammatory, and digestive effects. Despite its popularity in North Africa, little is known about its traditional uses and cultural role in Tunisia. This study documents ethnopharmacological practices, consumption patterns, and perceived benefits of chamomile in the Béja Governorate, northwestern Tunisia.

 Methods: A cross‑sectional survey of 120 adults was conducted using convenience sampling and a structured questionnaire (online and face‑to‑face). Data covered sociodemographics, knowledge, preparation, administration, and perceived effects of chamomile. Ethnomedicinal importance was assessed with RFC, UV, FL, and ICF indices. Associations with sociodemographic variables were analyzed using Chi‑square and logistic regression.

 Results: Chamomile showed strong cultural importance (RFC = 0.33; UV = 0.49). Respondents were mainly female (61%), young (18–30 y, 61%), and university‑educated (59%). Flowers were most used (82%), prepared as decoctions (39%) or infusions (33%), and consumed orally (68%). Health motivations dominated (79%), with calming effects most cited (61.7%). Informant consensus was high (ICF = 0.857–0.974). Adults ≥ 31 were more likely to use chamomile (aOR = 4.36) and report calming effects (aOR = 4.71), while women showed better knowledge (aOR = 3.29). Satisfaction was high (87.5%) and adverse effects rare (13%).

Conclusion: Matricaria chamomilla L. is widely used in Béja for stress relief and well‑being. Findings mainly reflect young, educated respondents and should be complemented by studies on older and rural groups. Its frequent citation confirms cultural importance and supports scientific validation, suggesting integration into evidence-based care to link traditional and modern health systems.

Keywords: Matricaria chamomilla L.; ethnopharmacology; medicinal plants; traditional knowledge; Tunisia

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Published

05.10.2026

How to Cite

Khouildi , G., Arrari , F., Tabouii, M., Asma, C., & Maaroufi, K. (2026). Ethnopharmacological Survey of Matricaria chamomilla L. in the Béja Governorate (Northwestern Tunisia): Traditional Uses, Preparation Methods, and Perceived Therapeutic Benefits . Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 36, 1–21. Retrieved from https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/8789

Issue

Vol. 36 (2026)

Section

Research

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