Ethnobotany Research and Applications

Socio-demographic determinants of traditional knowledge of medicinal plants in the Andean region of Ecuador

2025-08-21T17:39:35+00:00

Background: Ethnobotany studies provide preservation of traditional knowledge related with plant use with a pharmacovigilance prospective, where socio-demographic and educational factors have shaped traditional knowledge of medicinal plants at a broad level.

Methods: This study presents information on the use of medicinal plants and their relationship with socio-demographic factors in six Andean localities in northern and southern Ecuador. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with different population groups, 665 interviews were conducted (472 women and 193 men), including age, region, gender, level of education, species, morphological structures used, health disorders treated, mode of preparation, and use. Quantitative ethnobotanical indices as Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) and Fidelity Level (FL) were calculated.

Results: A total of 187 medicinal plants belonging to 70 families and 149 genera were reported, with Asteraceae and Lamiaceae being the families with the highest number of species. Gender and age were determining factors in the use of medicinal plants. The most used plant parts were stem, young branch, bark (48.2%) and whole plant (13.8%) and the most used forms of preparation were infusions, juices and decoctions. Twenty-four disease categories were reported, where the main categories were inflammation and digestive infections (47.4%). Most species were used by a large proportion of informants for each disease category (ICF ≥ 0.65). The diversity of medicinal plant species and the traditional knowledge associated with them are of considerable value to communities in northern and southern Ecuador.

Conclusions: Species (stems, leaves, branches and bark) may have potential in the treatment of anti-tumour and anti-inflammatory diseases related to the treatment of major disorders such as infection and inflammation of the stomach, liver, kidneys, urinary tract, cancer and internal tumors. Gender, age and region were determining factors in the knowledge about the use of plants to treat anti-tumour and anti-inflammatory diseases.

Keywords: Ethno-medicine; Ethnobotanical survey; gender, medicinal plants; biodiversity; Ecuador

Therapeutic properties of trees and shrubs cultivated in the green spaces of the Algerian Sahara

2025-08-16T09:12:16+00:00

Background: Ethnobotanical studies are essential for understanding cultural diversity, the use of plant resources, drug discovery, and biodiversity conservation efforts. The current research highlights the medicinal properties of trees and shrubs growing in urban green spaces in the Algerian Sahara.

Methods: A total of sixty-five (65) articles published in academic journals between 1993 and 2024 were examined to identify the types of diseases treated, the plant parts used and the methods of preparing medical recipes from trees and shrubs growing in Saharan urban green spaces. The data were analyzed using statistical tools and techniques.

Results: Sixteen species belonging to 12 families and 15 genera were reported as being used to treat various diseases, grouped into 12 main categories. These include digestive, respiratory, dermatological, cardiovascular, endocrine, urinary, hematological diseases, musculoskeletal disorders and sexual problems. The plant families most commonly used to treat various diseases are Fabaceae (with 3 species), Lythraceae and Tamaricaceae (each with 2 species).

Conclusions: The findings provide valuable baseline information for further studies on the bioactive compounds derived from medicinal plants in Saharan urban green spaces, which may be effective in the treatment of various diseases.

Keywords: Biodiversity; Green spaces; Medicinal properties; Diseases; Sahara; Algeria

Etnoarchaeological approach to hunter-gatherers basketry of Tierra del Fuego-Patagonia (Chile and Argentina)

2025-10-20T11:53:45+00:00

Background: Tierra del Fuego and the Oriental Channels of Patagonia in Chile and Argentina comprise a vast area of channels, fjords, and islands. In pre-European times, these areas were inhabited by hunter-fisher-gatherer communities who navigated in these channels in their canoes. The Isla Grande of Tierra del Fuego was also home to pedestrian hunter-gatherers. Skilled basket making was a notable craft among the women of these groups, and some of these traditional techniques persist today.

Methods: Our research delves into the ethnohistorical documentation and ethnographic collections housed in various museums across Chile, Argentina, and Europe. The primary goal is to address several questions concerning the ecological and technical knowledge of these populations and the purpose of their organic containers. The outcomes of our investigation shed light on the diverse aspects of baskets, including variations in shapes, raw materials, sizes, and production techniques.

Results: Notably, our findings underscore the relationship between these variables and the function of the containers. The predominant use of these baskets was for transporting and storing food and belongings. Remarkably, there is a homogeneity in the raw material employed (Marsippostermum grandiflorum) and a noticeable low diversity in terms of shapes and technic. Its geographical origins and their significance within these hunter-gatherer-fisher societies are also discussed, in particular intergenerational transmission of knowledge.

Keywords: Basketry, rushes, Hunter-fisher-gatherers, Patagonia-Tierra del Fuego, ethnoarchaeology.

Ethnopteridological knowledge of Afro-descendant communities in the humid forest of Chocó, Colombia

2025-09-01T08:37:59+00:00

Background: Ferns are of great utility to neighboring communities due to their wide diversity of uses, ranging from medicinal to magical-religious applications. The Afro-Colombian population possesses a rich ethnobotanical tradition, making it an ideal setting for exploring ethnopteridological knowledge. This study documents and analyzes the diversity of uses of ferns species reported by the inhabitants of Alto Atrato, Chocó, Colombia.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 local experts from the Alto Atrato community. Additionally, botanical walks were carried out to collect ferns specimens, which were subsequently identified and deposited at the Herbarium of the University of Antioquia (HUA). The uses reported by the experts were classified according to the categories proposed by Cook, and the Cultural Importance Index (CI) and Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) were calculated.

Results: A total of 17 ferns species were reported with traditional uses. The species Pityrogramma calomelanos exhibited the highest CI (1.294), followed by Cyathea trichiata (0.706). Regarding RFC, C. trichiata and P. calomelanos shared the highest value (0.706). The most frequent use category was medicinal, accounting for 64.7% of the records.

Conclusion: There is a notable diversity of useful ferns species compared to the total number reported in the other surveys. Have been reported 13 new ethnopteridological species for Colombia. Additionally, an intergenerational gap in ethnobotanical knowledge was observed, underscoring the urgency of preserving this knowledge within the communities. Pityrogramma calomelanos holds significant cultural importance due to its diverse applications.

Keywords: Cyatheaceae, Ferns, medicinal, Pityrogramma, Use categories.

Resumen

Introducción: Los helechos son de gran utilidad para las comunidades aledañas, debido a su amplia diversidad de usos desde medicinales hasta mágico-religiosos. La población afrocolombiana cuenta con una rica tradición etnobotánica, lo que la convierte en un lugar ideal para explorar el conocimiento etnopteridológico. Este estudio documenta y analiza la diversidad de usos de las especies de helechos reportadas por los habitantes del Alto Atrato, Chocó, Colombia.

Métodos: Se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas con 17 conocedores de la comunidad del Alto Atrato. Complementariamente, se realizaron caminatas botánicas para la colecta de especímenes de helechos, los cuales fueron identificados y depositados en el Herbario de la Universidad de Antioquia (HUA). Los usos manifestados por los conocedores se agruparon en las categorías propuestas por Cook y se calcularon los índices de importancia cultural (IC) y frecuencia relativa de citación (FRC).

Resultados: Un total de 17 especies de helechos fueron reportados con algún uso tradicional. La especie Pityrogramma calomelanos presentó el mayor IC (1.294), seguida de Cyathea trichiata (0.706). En cuanto a la FRC, C. trichiata y P. calomelanos compartieron el valor más alto (0.706). La categoría de uso más frecuente fue medicinal, presente en el 64.7% de los registros.

Conclusión: Hay una notable diversidad de especies de helechos útiles, comparado con el número total reportado en otros estudios. Se reportan 13 especies etnopteridológicas nuevas para Colombia. Además, se observa una brecha en el conocimiento etnobotánico entre generaciones, destacando la necesidad de preservar este saber en las comunidades. Pityrogramma calomelanos es culturalmente importante por su diversidad de usos.

Palabras clave: Categorías de uso, Cyatheaceae, Helechos, medicinal, Pityrogramma

Ethnobotanical uses of the Flora of Banrgai, Talash Valley, District Lower Dir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

2025-08-27T07:43:43+00:00

Background: The present study was carried out in the region of Banrgai, Talash Valley District Dir Lower North, Pakistan. The purpose of the study to explore the areas of Talash valley from all aspects regarding diversity of medicinal plants and folk medicinal knowledge. Traditional knowledge about medicinal plants used for various health problems was collected from the study area.

Methods: Comprehensive field work was carried out in Banrgai valley, Talash district Dir Lower KP, Pakistan starts from, March to September 2014. The data obtained from informants were analyzed through various statistical techniques such as Use value (UV), Relative frequency citation (RFC), Relative popularity level (RPL) and Rank order priority (ROP).

Results: The present study revealed that in Banrgai Valley has 39 plant families comprising of 63 species and 59 genera which were utilized by local inhabitants for various purposes. The Use Value (UV) ranged from 0.01 to 0.19, with the highest UV recorded for Verbascum thapsus (0.19) and Amaranthus viridis (0.19). The Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) values varied from 0.05 to 0.71, with the highest RFC documented for Sonchus oleraceus (0.71). The Fidelity Level (FL) ranged from 7.58% to 91%, with the highest FL recorded for Saccharum bengalense (91%). The Relative Popularity Level (RPL) ranged from 0.13 to 0.98, with the highest RPL values observed for Capsella bursa-pastoris and Chenopodium ambrosioides (both 0.98). The analysis revealed that the most commonly used plant portion for medicinal purposes is the leaves, underscoring their importance in traditional healing practices

Conclusions: The Region of Banrgai, Talash Valley have rich diversity of medicinal flora. The several causes for this decreasing resource were, unsuitable agriculture applies, over grazing, over exploitation, deforestation occur for many uses such as fuel and timber in the investigation area.

Keywords: Ethnobotany, Plant diversity, Banrgai, Talash valley, Pakistan

Ethnomedicinal plants potentially used in treatment of skin diseases in Bhandara district (MS), India

2025-11-03T07:40:17+00:00

Background: The Bhandara district in eastern Vidarbha, Maharashtra, India, remains underexplored in terms of its ethnobotanical heritage, despite being rich in floristic diversity. This represents the first systematic documentation of ethnomedicinal plants used in the treatment of skin diseases in the region. The study aims to preserve traditional knowledge that is rapidly declining among the older generation of healers.

Methods: Ethnomedicinal data were collected from 24 informants (19 males and 5 females; aged 51-80 years) using structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Information recorded included vernacular names, plant parts used, preparation methods, dosages, and associated precautions. Quantitative ethnobotanical indices, including Use Value (UV), Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), Informant Consensus Factor (ICF), and Fidelity Level (FL), were calculated to assess the relative importance of species and agreement among informants.

Results: A total of 261 angiosperm species, representing 218 genera and 85 families, were documented for use against 24 categories of dermatological or skin ailments. Fabaceae (34 spp.), Malvaceae (15 spp.), Apocynaceae (14 spp.), Asteraceae (12 spp.), and Euphorbiaceae (10 spp.) were the most represented families. The highest UV and RFC values were recorded for Azadirachta indica (UV 2.04, RFC 1.00), Curcuma longa (UV 2.0, RFC 1.00) and Butea monosperma (UV 1.92, RFC 1.00). Leprosy, wounds, and boils were the categories with the highest informant consensus (ICF=0.94-0.98). Of the 261 species recorded, 12 exhibited ICF values greater than 0.9, indicating strong agreement among informants on their dermatological efficacy. Leaves were the most frequently used plant part (132 citations), typically prepared as paste or decoctions for topical application.

Conclusions: Indigenous healers in Bhandara district maintain extensive knowledge of plant-based skin remedies, but this knowledge is at risk of being lost as intergenerational transmission declines. The plant species with high UV and FL should be prioritized for phytochemical and pharmacological validation. The findings contribute significantly to the regional ethnomedicinal record and highlight the importance of scientific validation before these remedies are incorporated into evidence-based healthcare systems.

Keywords: Ethnobotany, Traditional medicine, Skin diseases, Quantitative indices, Bhandara district, Maharashtra.

Ethnobotanical knowledge and traditional uses of Omvong (Dialium spp., Fabaceae) tree species in Gabon: a sociocultural and phytotherapeutic perspective

2025-10-01T02:48:50+00:00

Background: Omvong (Dialium spp., Fabaceae) tree species are integral to the traditional medicinal and cultural practices of many ethnolinguistic groups in Gabon. Despite their widespread cultural importance, the ethnobotanical diversity and sociocultural dynamics underpinning their use remain poorly documented.

Methods: Ethnobotanical surveys were conducted among 15 ethnolinguistic groups across five provinces in Gabon. A total of 1,180 semi-structured interviews were carried out with knowledgeable practitioners of traditional herbal medicine, in order to document local perceptions, therapeutic uses, preparation techniques, and the sociocultural contexts associated with the use of Dialium species. Data were analyzed using Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA) to identify distinct ethnobotanical patterns among communities.

Results: Significant variations were observed in the transmission and application of traditional knowledge, strongly influenced by sociocultural factors such as marital status. Elderly respondents, along with married or widowed individuals, exhibited notably deeper ethnobotanical knowledge, highlighting their key roles as custodians of traditional practices. Medicinal uses dominated, particularly for the treatment of febrile illnesses (e.g., malaria, typhoid), reproductive disorders, and parasitic infections. Additionally, ritualistic and practical uses underscored the multifunctional nature of Omvong species. MCA revealed distinct usage patterns correlated with ecological availability and cultural specificities: the Baka community displayed highly homogeneous knowledge transmission, whereas groups such as Akele and Galoa exhibited more fragmented knowledge systems.

Conclusions: This study underscores the cultural and therapeutic significance of Omvong in Gabonese ethnomedicine, highlighting the necessity of integrating traditional ethnobotanical knowledge into sustainable healthcare and natural resource management strategies. Further research should focus on isolating and validating bioactive compounds to enhance the scientific foundation of traditional knowledge, supporting culturally respectful and ecologically sustainable healthcare interventions.

Keywords: Forest species; Dialium sp.; Gabon; Potential utilizations; local knowledge

Ethnobotanical Assessment of Culturally Important Firewood Species Used for Cooking in Nyakelang Section of the Lemondokop Village, Limpopo Province, South Africa

2025-10-04T05:48:05+00:00

Background: Rural South Africa areas depend on forests for firewood, yet the systematic documentation of the most-used and culturally important species remains limited despite notable annual consumptions. This study addresses this gap by documenting culturally salient firewood species and their selection criteria among Nyakelang section households in Lemondokop Village, Limpopo Province, South Africa.

Materials and Methods: Using the free-listing method within the Cultural Domain Analysis framework, alongside Smith’s salience, Use Consensus (UC), and Informant Consensus Factor (ICF), the study examined how traditional ecological knowledge, and socio-economic factors shape firewood use.

Results and Discussion: Data were collected from 128 households. Participants were mostly females (73%), aged between 36-45 years (26%), with secondary education (54%), and unemployed (27%). Thirty-eight firewood species were mentioned, and piecewise linear regression identified a salience breakpoint at 2.25, distinguishing core species; Dichrostachys cinerea (L.) Wight & Arn., Combretum zeyheri Sond., and Combretum apiculatum (Hochst.) Engl. & Diels. The UC confirmed these species as broadly recognised, while the ICF revealed a strong agreement on selection criteria; “burns well” (ICF = 0.828), “availability” (ICF = 0.822), and “burns for a long time” (ICF = 0.738). Other criteria showed moderate-to-low consensus, indicating variations in knowledge or preference.

Conclusions: Species preference was primarily driven by availability and necessity rather than cultural significance, reflecting women’s knowledge in salience rankings. Moreover, poverty and limited education undermined sustainable firewood use, while legal frameworks remain misaligned with community practices. Energy policies should therefore integrate indigenous knowledge, promote sustainable resource use, consider community realities, and reduce firewood dependence to mitigate health and environmental risks.

Keywords: Domestic energy, Criteria of selection, Use consensus, Informant Consensus Factor, Smith’s salience index

Knowledge and medicinal plants in El Ach region (Algeria)

2025-09-11T00:34:00+00:00

Background: This ethnobotanical study intended to count the plants species according to their uses by people, whether as ethno-medicinal in the local traditional medicine, food or anything else in El Ach region southern Bordj-Bou-Arreridj (Algeria).

Methods: The ethnobotanical data were collected in 2023 from 130 local informants through structured questionnaires and interviews, focusing on medicinal plant names, parts used, preparation methods, applications, and treated ailments. Quantitative analysis involved two indices, Use Value (UV) and Fidelity Level (FL), to assess data significance and reliability, while Non-Metric Multidimensional Scaling (NMDS) was used to explore the relationship between plant use and participants' socio-demographic characteristics.

Results: An inventory recorded 53 medicinal plant species from 26 botanical families, with Asteraceae being the most represented (12 species), followed by Lamiaceae (7 species), and others having between 1 to 4 species each. Asteraceae species were widely used to treat various diseases using methods like decoction, compress, infusion, and powder. For example, Artemisia herba-alba asso with a fidelity level (FL) of 89.39%, is notably used to treat diabetes, stomach pain, colon issues. Additionally, Non-Metric Multidimensional scaling (NMDS) analysis showed significant relationships and differences in plant knowledge across different age groups.

Conclusions: This research explores the rich ethnobotanical heritage of the El Ach community, revealing a wide variety of traditional medicinal plants used locally. It emphasizes the community's strong bond with nature and the importance of ethnobotanical studies in preserving indigenous knowledge for the future.

Keywords: Ethnobotany, Medicinal Plants, Traditional Medicine, El Ach region, Algeria.

Qualitative and quantitative ethnobotanical assessment of Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire: An emblematic medicinal plant of Saharan heritage

2025-10-06T08:26:21+00:00

Background: The Moroccan Saharan flora is a remarkable botanical heritage, distinguished by its exceptional adaptation to extreme desert conditions and its importance in traditional medicine. The present study aims to valorize the ethnopharmacological potential of Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire, commonly known as “agaaya,” an emblematic species of the Moroccan Sahara, using a qualitative and quantitative ethnobotanical approach.

Methods: Ethnobotanical investigations were conducted among 56 local traditional medicine practitioners in the Rissani circle, Errachidia Province, Morocco, including herbalists and healers. Interviews were conducted using semi-structured questionnaires.

Results: The survey revealed that the plant is used in therapy by 57.14% of practitioners, mainly in the treatment of digestive disorders (53.19%), followed by dermatological disorders (29.79%) and endocrine and metabolic disorders (8.51%). The foliage (PPV = 0.610) and stems (PPV = 0.325) are the most recommended parts in powder form (78.13%). These preparations are generally administered orally (81.25%) or applied to the skin (68.75%). Quantitative analyses reveal the major importance of the plant in traditional pharmacopoeia given its significant use value (UV=0.839), its notable relative frequency of citation (RFC=0.5714), and its high cultural importance index (CI=0.839). Its therapeutic use is characterized by a high fidelity level (FL) for the treatment of digestive disorders (FL=78.125%).

Conclusions: This study reveals the role of Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire in the traditional therapeutic practices of local communities and highlights its potential as a source of promising bioactive compounds for modern medicine. However, further research is needed to explore its therapeutic applications and safety.

Keywords: Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire, Ethnopharmacology, Quantitative ethnobotany, Phytotherapy, Saharan medicinal plant, Rissani Circle, Morocco.

Ethnobotanical uses, diversity, and palatability of weeds in the tobacco crop, Yaqubi field, tehsil Razar, district Swabi

2025-08-29T09:01:36+00:00

Background: A research region's phyto-diversity provides a diversity of services to humans and their livestock, including food, feed, and medicines. The livestock's inclinations are quantified by the plants' palatability. This present study is the first attempt to document the diversity, palatable status, and ethnomedicinal uses of weeds in the region.

Objectives: The primary aim of this investigation was to record the biodiversity of weed species in tobacco crops and their ethnomedicinal uses and palatability.

Methods: An examination survey with frequent visits to the research area was conducted to determine the ethnobotanical uses and palatability status of weeds in tobacco crops.

Results: The present study highlights the ethnobotanical importance of weed species traditionally used by indigenous communities for treating various ailments. Several of these species also serve as valuable fodder resources for livestock, reflecting their dual role in local healthcare and agricultural practices. In total, 50 weed species were recorded, belonging to 47 genera and 23 families. Poaceae with 12 spp. (24 %) emerged as the most dominant family, followed by Asteraceae with 9 spp. (18 %), and Amaranthaceae with 4 spp. (8 %). Therophytes were the prevailing life-form (66 %), with microphylls being the most common leaf-size category (30 %). The overall diversity reflects a rich and ecologically significant weed flora in the study area. Moreover, a large proportion of these species (94 %) were found to be palatable, indicating their strong potential as a forage resource.

Conclusion: Based on our findings, it is recommended to employ natural weed management procedures that conserve the ethnobotanical value of palatable species while reducing the influence of lethal weeds on tobacco cultivation.

Keywords: Weeds diversity, Tobacco field, life forms, leaf size spectra, palatability, ethnobotany, Yaqubi field, Swabi district.

Ethnomedicinal uses of wild edible Angiosperms in Thachi Valley, Western Himalayas

2025-08-20T04:09:01+00:00

Background: Since the dawn of history, humans have depended on wild edible plants as a vital source of food and nutrition. In the present time, these plants have been neglected by the people, but rural people still rely on wild edible plants not only as food but also for their therapeutic properties.

Methods: Fieldwork was carried out with local informants and data was collected through focus group discussions, questionnaires, and interviews. Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) and Use Value (UV) were calculated to assess the cultural significance, medicinal relevance, and overall importance of wild edible plants in the daily lives of the local communities.

Results: It was found that 51 species of medicinal plants from 28 families were utilized to cure 52 ill-nesses in 10 different disease categories. The most widely utilized plant part was leaves, while the most prevalent life form was herbs (72%). The Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) values were recorded for skin disorders (0.73), respiratory disorders (0.79), sexual disorders (0.97), metabolic disorders (0.93), digestive disorders (0.75), ophthalmic disorders (0.97), infectious disorders (0.84), muscular and joint disorders (0.94), cardiovascular disorders (0.98) and nutritional deficiency disorders (0.97). With the greatest usage value (0.95), Urtica dioica demonstrated its nutritional as well as medicinal significance.

Conclusions: The study reveals that rural communities possess rich traditional knowledge and rely heavily on wild plants for food, medicine, and cultural practices. However, this heritage is under threat due to lifestyle changes and declining transmission of knowledge to younger generations.

Keywords: Biodiversity, Informant consensus factor, Traditional knowledge, Use value

Traditional management and genetic diversity of Cereus jamacaru DC. subsp. jamacaru (Cactaceae) in the semi-arid region of Brazil

2025-09-03T12:25:46+00:00

Background: Cereus jamacaru subsp. jamacaru is a columnar cactus with high utilization potential. It is used as of animal feed in the semi-arid region of northeastern Brazil. This study aimed to characterize the knowledge, use, and management of this species in a rural community in the semi-arid region of Brazil.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 35 family heads (n = 104) of the village of Santa Rita. Genetic analyses were carried out to evaluate the structure and genetic diversity of populations exposed to different types of management. A total of 90 individuals, 30 in each stand (wild, managed and cultivated) were selected and georeferenced.

Results: Interviews revealed that fodder was the most important use category. Both in situ (gathering and tolerance) and ex situ (planting and transplanting) management were recorded. There was no significant difference in genetic diversity between the wild, cultivated, and managed stand. The analysis of molecular variance showed that most of the variation occurs within the populations (99.76%). Based on the Nei´s genetic distance matrix, it was possible to verify in the dendogram that the cultivated population is more distinct than the wild and managed ones.

Conclusions: The different types of use and management practiced demonstrate the high cultural and economic value of the mandacaru. In situ management, involves human selection in favor of individuals more robust and more and larger fruits. This selection is not detected by the genetic analysis performed, although it is possible to infer that gene flow among populations is high thus counteracting effects of selection.

Keywords: Mandacaru; Caatinga; Ethnobotany; traditional population; Columnar cacti.

What shapes traditional food plant use? Correlates of consumption and associations with perceived well-being in three socio-ecological settings of Indonesia

2025-11-03T09:04:05+00:00

Background: Traditional food plants (TFPs) are integral to dietary resilience in Indonesia, yet their consumption dynamics and potential health links remain understudied. This study aims to document TFPs’ use, examine factors correlated with consumption, and explore their associations with perceived health and well-being.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 335 participants in three socio-ecologically distinct provinces (West Java, West Nusa Tenggara, Aceh) employed food frequency questionnaires and a standardized self-rated health and well-being survey. Bivariate correlation and multiple regression analyses were applied to analyze the associations.

Results: We documented 121 TFP species from 49 families. Frequent consumption was most common in West Nusa Tenggara (61%), followed by Aceh (42%) and West Java (15%), with most TFPs sourced from unmanaged landscapes. Agricultural and dietary factors were the most consistent correlates of TFP consumption across sites. Associations with well-being varied by location. In West Java, TFP intake was associated with a mental well-being component (Social Functioning). In West Nusa Tenggara, it was associated with a mental component (Mental Health) and a physical component (General Health). In Aceh, an initial association with a physical component (General Health) was not significant after adjusting for confounders.

Conclusions: The relevance of TFPs persists across Indonesia’s diverse socio-ecological settings. As consumption patterns and perceived benefits of well-being are context-specific, promotion efforts could be locally tailored and coupled with efforts to protect access to natural habitats.

Keywords: Traditional food plants, Well-being, Consumption pattern, Indonesia, Ethnobotany

Botanical trends in global skin care: a bibliometric analysis

2025-08-25T03:59:25+00:00

Background: The trend of using botanical-based ingredients in skin care is booming in the global cosmetics industry. A comprehensive and global bibliometric analysis of this field has never been conducted. This study aims to conduct a bibliometric analysis of the current literature from 2000 to 2024 on the use of botanical ingredients in skin care. This analysis aims to identify global and comprehensive research trends and develop future research strategies.

Methods: References were obtained from the Scopus database. The data mining process involved filtering, extraction, export, selection, and validation. A data cleaning process was conducted to standardize the writing. The data were then analyzed and visualized using Bibliometrix-Biblioshiny, VOSviewer, and Microsoft Excel.

Results: The use of botanical ingredients in global skin care is on the rise. Between 2000 and 2024, 1,127 articles were published by 357 publishers, with a 12.3% average annual growth. A total of 4,942 authors from 77 countries contributed to this topic. The United States is the leading contributing country, Tsinghua University is the most productive institution, Science of the Total Environment is the top journal, and Gang Yu is the most prolific author. The U.S. plays a key role in knowledge dissemination on this subject.

Conclusions: The bibliometric analysis reveals growing interest and underscores opportunities for international collaboration, offering a useful reference for academics, researchers, and policymakers to bridge scientific and technological gaps and inform future policies and research.

Keywords: Bibliometric, Botanical, Science mapping, Skin care

Ethnobotanical approaches to anorectal disorders in tribal communities of Chhattisgarh, Central India

2025-11-05T15:58:10+00:00

Background: The Indian state of Chhattisgarh, known for its rich forest biodiversity and traditional medicinal knowledge, has a long-standing heritage of using plants to treat various ailments. However, no ethnobotanical study has specifically focused on the treatment of haemorrhoids in this region. This study was conducted to document the medicinal plants used by traditional healers in the Surguja district for haemorrhoid treatment.

Methods: Ethnobotanical data were collected from 22 traditional healers across 11 villages in the Ambikapur, Mainpat, and Udaipur blocks of Surguja district through semi-structured interviews. Use Value (UV), Fidelity Level (FL), and Jaccard Index (JI) were calculated to assess cultural importance, consensus, and regional similarity.

Results: A total of 47 plant species, belonging to 44 genera and 33 families, were recorded for the treatment of haemorrhoids and other ailments. UV values ranged from 0.23 to 1.36, with Achyranthes aspera L. and Aegle marmelos (L.) Corrêa showing the highest UV (1.36), followed by Asparagus racemosus Willd., Calotropis procera (Aiton) W.T.Aiton, and Tinospora crispa (L.) Hook. f. & Thomson (UV = 1.27). FL ranged from 11.76% to 80%, with the highest value recorded for Musa × paradisiaca L. and Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. (80%). The highest similarity (8.57%) was observed with ethnobotanical data from Manipur.

Conclusion: This study is the first to report medicinal plant use for haemorrhoid treatment in Chhattisgarh. Several species showed high cultural value and are recommended for further phytochemical, pharmacological, and in silico investigations to explore their therapeutic potential.

Keywords: Ethnobotany, Haemorrhoids, Medicinal Plants, Traditional Healers, Use Value

Traditional use and conservation of medicinal plants among Hehe society in Tanzania

2025-08-03T10:38:53+00:00

Background: The knowledge and use of medicinal plants are deeply rooted in the socio-cultural heritage of many African tribes. The study investigated the traditional use and conservation of medicinal plants among the Hehe community in Iringa, Tanzania, in response to increasing environmental pressure and demand for herbal remedies.

Methods: The research was conducted in Mufindi and Kilolo districts during July 2022 and May 2023 through social surveys and field visits to document local medicinal plant species and conservation practices employed. Thirty key informants, including traditional healers, village leaders, and elders, were interviewed alongside twelve focus group discussions with youth, men, and women. Field visits, aided by a botanist, facilitated the identification of species mentioned during the surveys.

Results: The study recorded 152 medicinal plant species across 61 families. Asteraceae and Fabaceae were the most represented families (16 species each), followed by Rubiaceae (12 species). An analysis of the IUCN Red List showed that most species were categorised as "Least Concern." However, Prunus africana was classified as "Vulnerable," and Warbugia ugandensis subsp. ugandensis, though unlisted, was noted as rare and heavily exploited. Leaves were the most used (44%), followed by roots (37%), stem bark (13%), fruits/seeds (3%), tubers (1%), and whole plants (2%). Trees were the most utilised (31%), followed closely by herbs (30%), shrubs (29%), climbers (7%), subshrubs (2%), and parasitic plants (1%). Traditional conservation practices employed were the use of sacred groves, spiritually guided harvesting, selective harvesting, and plant domestication.

Conclusions: The findings underscore the rich ethnobotanical knowledge of the Hehe people and highlight the need for sustainable conservation of medicinal plant resources.

Keywords: Traditional conservation, sacred groves, ethnobotany, Prunus africana, Warbugia ugandensis

Continuity and change in Sundanese use of wild vegetables: A historical ethnobotany analysis

2025-10-12T11:04:37+00:00

Background: Java’s favorable climate and volcanic soils have supported a rich variety of edible plants, shaping biodiversity and food systems. The Sundanese of West Java have a culinary tradition emphasizing fresh vegetables, especially lalab, which are raw or lightly cooked and served with chili paste (sambal), that historically played a central dietary role.

Methods: Historical data were sourced from J. J. Ochse’s Indische Groenten (1931) and additional colonial-era materials, augmented by secondary references. Wild vegetable species were taxonomically authenticated through Plants of the World Online and cross-referenced. Species cited in recent studies were classified as “persistent,” whereas absent species were considered “forgotten.” Botanical characteristics, edible parts, consumption methods, and biogeographical origins were examined to identify diachronic patterns.

Results: A total of 232 wild species (158 genera, 68 families) were historically documented, primarily herbaceous, with leaves most used. Recent studies, however, report merely 50-100 species. Persistent taxa are mainly perennial herbs, used raw or minimally processed. Forgotten taxa include forest-associated trees and ferns, seasonally available annuals, species requiring detoxification or complex processing, and taxa with commercially cultivated relatives. Introduced species from several floristic regions signify prolonged plant exchange and migration. Sociohistorical transformations, including wartime deforestation, post-independence land transfer, the Green Revolution, commercialization, and agroforest simplification, diminished access to wild vegetables.

Conclusions: This study shows that using historical documents in ethnobotany research is important for revealing people–plant relationships and cultural trajectories over time. Diachronic perspectives are essential for revitalizing traditional plant knowledge and strengthening food traditions amid biodiversity loss and cultural change.

Keywords: Diachronic ethnobotany, Lalab vegetables, Sundanese cuisine, Unconventional food, Wild plants

Ethnobotanical survey and ecological approach of medicinal and aromatic plants in Algeria

2025-08-08T09:00:42+00:00

Background: Herbal medicine remains widely used globally, often preferred due to concerns over pharmaceutical side effects. In Algeria, where 80% of the population relies on traditional medicine, this study aimed to document medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) used in a semi-arid region of northeastern Algeria.

Methods: Conducted from 2017 to 2020, the ethnobotanical survey involved 300 participants. The data were evaluated using a range of botanical citation indexes. In addition, for each plant species identified, ethnobotanical features were assigned, including the plant part used in herbal medicine, preparation modes, medication routes of administration, and diseases treated. Furthermore, ecological characteristics such as plant morphological types, IUCN Red List status, and geographic origins were recorded.

Results: All participants reported using MAPs for treatment. Data analysis using Multiple Component Analysis revealed that married, urban housewives aged 36 to 61 years were the primary users. Additionally, 158 species were identified from 62 families, with Asteraceae, Lamiaceae, and Apiaceae being the most represented. Leaves were the most commonly used plant part, with infusion and decoction as the main preparation methods. Ecological data included IUCN status, with some species listed as Vulnerable or Endangered. Several species showed high Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) and Fidelity Level (FL), notably Prunus dulcis (Mill.) D.A.Webb, Olea europaea L., and Lavandula angustifolia Mill.

Conclusion: This study underscores the significant role of MAPs in traditional healthcare practices in northeastern Algeria, offering key insights into their use for the treatment of various diseases. The findings contribute to the body of knowledge in alternative medicine and provide a valuable ethnobotanical database that could be leveraged for pharmaceutical applications.

Keywords: Herbal medicine, Medicinal and aromatic plants, Semi-arid regions, Ethnobotanical survey, Botanical citation indexes, Montane habitats.

Contemporary ethnobotany of Opuntia ficus-indica in Algeria: perceptions, practices, and trust across sociodemographic groups

2025-09-01T08:39:58+00:00

Background: The aim of this study was to document the ethnobotanical uses and perceptions of Opuntia ficus-indica (prickly pear) in Algeria, a country where traditional knowledge of this multipurpose plant remains underexplored despite its ecological and economic significance.

Methods: Ethnobotanical data were collected from 525 respondents via a structured, anonymous online questionnaire between May and July 2023. The survey covered sociodemographic profiles, plant parts used, forms and frequency of use, sources of acquisition, preparation methods, perceived benefits, and adverse effects. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, Cramer’s V, and network analysis, performed using RStudio (v4.2.2) with the igraph, ggraph, and tidygraph packages).

Results: The study revealed that women, university-educated individuals, and younger age groups (18–35) were the primary users of Opuntia ficus-indica. The fruit was the most used part, followed by seeds and cladodes. Uses ranged from cosmetics and food to herbal remedies. Modern processed forms (e.g., oils, capsules) were preferred by educated users, while traditional preparations remained popular among older adults. Strong associations were found between usage patterns and variables such as age, gender, education, and profession. Network analysis confirmed key relationships between plant use, form, frequency, and expected effects.

Conclusions: This study highlights the rich and dynamic role of Opuntia ficus-indica in Algerian ethnobotanical practices. It underlines the influence of sociodemographic factors on knowledge and use patterns and supports future strategies for sustainable development, health promotion, and cultural preservation involving this species.

Keywords: Opuntia ficus-indica; Prickly pear; Ethnobotany; Algeria; Sociodemographic factors; Traditional knowledge

Traditional knowledge and use of medicinal plants in the Ayllu Niño Corin (Prov. Bautista Saavedra, La Paz, Bolivia)

2025-09-25T12:14:50+00:00

Background: The traditional knowledge of the use of medicinal plants in the Kallawaya region of Bolivia has been extensively studied and documented, however there are no studies for the Ayllu Niño Corin, which is part of the municipality of Charazani, and where research has focused mainly on the festivity and music of Qanthus.

Methods: The data were collected through semi-structured interviews, participant observation, and walks to collect specimens. A total of four local experts and 25 general participants between the ages of 18 and 80 were interviewed to document their knowledge. The data obtained were systematized into 19 subcategories of medicinal use, and three ethnobotanical indices were applied to identify the most important species.

Results: A total of 90 species were reported, distributed in 42 botanical families. The Asteraceae family, presents the highest number of species, followed by the Lamiaceae and Solanaceae, with a higher proportion of native species in relation to the introduced ones. A total of 88 diseases were recorded, distributed in 17 categories. Fifty-three percent of all uses reported in the Ayllu corresponded to experts. The greatest use of medicinal plants applies to General ailments with unspecified symptoms, Digestive system, Musculoskeletal system, Reproductive system and sexual health, and Respiratory system. The most frequent diseases are cough, fever, bile, stomach-ache, female problems, worms, cancer and rheumatism. Clinopodium bolivianum (locally called Muña), is the single most important species in common for both sages and general participants.

Conclusions: These results confirm the importance of medicinal plants for primary health care in rural and isolated areas, and the differences found between the two types of participants allow us to confirm the role of experts within the communities, mainly in the Andes.

Keywords: Healer, Kallawaya, traditional medicine, community health.

Is there a relationship between the concentration of phenolic compounds and the versatility of medicinal plants in the Caatinga biome?

2025-08-23T08:24:33+00:00

Background: This study investigates whether the concentration of phenolic compounds—specifically phenols, tannins, and flavonoids—correlates with the medicinal versatility of woody plant species in the Caatinga, a seasonally dry tropical forest in northeastern Brazil. Given the well-documented bioactivity of phenolic compounds, we tested the hypothesis that higher concentrations are associated with a broader range of medicinal uses.

Methods: We selected 20 woody medicinal plant species and classified them into high- and low-versatility groups based on their Relative Importance (RI) values drawn from the ethnobotanical literature. Stem bark samples were collected from Catimbau National Park, Pernambuco, Brazil. Methanolic extracts were analyzed for total phenolics using the Folin–Ciocalteu assay, for tannins using casein precipitation, and for flavonoids using the aluminum chloride complexation method.

Results: Contrary to our hypothesis, no statistically significant differences in phenolic compound concentrations were observed between high- and low-versatility groups. While highly versatile species such as Astronium urundeuva (232.85 mg TAE/100 g DM) and Anadenanthera colubrina (254.24 mg TAE/100 g DM) exhibited elevated levels of total phenolics, some less versatile species as Mimosa tenuiflora (244.86 mg TAE/100 g DM) and Schinopsis brasiliensis (219.85 mg TAE/100 g DM) showed similarly high values. A similar pattern was observed for tannins and flavonoid concentrations.

Conclusions: Although phenolic compounds contribute to the pharmacological potential of medicinal plants, their concentrations do not account for greater medicinal versatility in the Caatinga. Other factors—such as ecological availability, cultural preferences, and traditional knowledge systems—likely play a more decisive role. These findings highlight the need for integrative approaches in ethnopharmacological research that move beyond chemical profiles alone.

Keywords: Ethnobotany; Ethnopharmacology; Flavonoids; Phenols; Phytochemistry; Seasonal dry forests; Tannins; Woody Plants

Traditional healing practices for gynecological disorders: Insights from tribal communities of Bargarh district, Odisha, India

2025-10-02T16:44:11+00:00

Background: Gynecological disorders significantly affect women's health globally, prompting research into plant-based remedies. This study explores indigenous medicinal plants used by rural communities in Bargarh district, Odisha, India, for treating such disorders. It aims to document and preserve traditional knowledge passed down through folklore and practiced by local communities.

Methods: Field surveys regarding medicinal plants used for different gynecological disorders were carried out from January 2023 to April 2024 from 189 informants using semi-structured questionnaires, complemented by informal interviews, conversations, and direct observations.

Results: During the survey, 29 ethnomedicinal plant species from 22 families were recorded, with Fabaceae being the most frequently represented. Herbs and trees were the dominant life forms, each constituting 37.9%, followed by climbers (13.8%) and shrubs (10.4%). The most commonly used plant parts were leaves, flowers, seeds, fruits, and bark. These plants were found to address lactation-related issues (29%), followed by menstrual disorders (25.8%), abortion-related conditions (22.6%), facilitating delivery (19.4%), and gonorrhea (3.2%). The most significant species with higher use values were Piper betle L. (0.48), Phyllanthus emblica L. (0.35), Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. (0.30), and Saraca asoca (Roxb.) W.J.de Wilde (0.26). The informant consensus factor ranged between 0.95 and 0.97.

Conclusions: The current study shows that rural women often experience gynecological problems and rely on traditional medical care. The findings suggest that the local population is attentive and cautious regarding gynecological diseases. This study will serve as a foundation for future phytochemical and pharmacological screenings aimed at discovering new herbal treatments for various gynecological issues.

Keywords: Folk remedies, Indigenous knowledge, Gynecological disorders, Life form, Therapeutic plants.

Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants of Bouira localities (Northern Algeria) to manage Diabetes mellitus

2025-09-05T11:55:52+00:00

Background: Diabetes mellitus has drawn the interest of scientists due to its widespread occurrence in the population, and there is a growing need to find novel therapeutic medications derived from natural sources to treat diabetes mellitus. The goal of this study was to document the folk medicinal plant knowledge for the management of diabetes by conducting an ethnobotanical survey in the Bouira district (Algeria).

Methods: The research was conducted between January and May 2024. To gather ethnobotanical data, 301 informants (herbalists and members of the general public) who are knowledgeable about and utilize medicinal plants were interviewed. The Plant Part Value, Relative Frequency of Citation and Family Importance Value Index were used to objectively examine the recorded data.

Results: A total of 43 plant species from 24 families were traditionally used by the population of Bouira localities to treat diabetes. With nine species, the Lamiaceae family was identified as the primary family, followed by the Astraiceae and Fabaceae, with four and three species, respectively. The most frequently cited species were Olea europaea (RFC = 0.333), Artemisia herba-alba (RFC = 0.214), Moringa oleifera (RFC = 0.158), Centaurium erythraea (RFC = 0.118), Cinnamomum verum (RFC = 0.116), Marrubium vulgare, Trigonella foenum-graecum (RFC = 0.095), and Salvia rosmarinus Spenn (RFC = 0.079). Leaves were the most commonly used plant part (35%), primarily prepared as decoctions (55%), and administered orally (95.03%) for management of diabetes.

Conclusions: The data collected provide a valuable foundation for future pharmacological investigations aimed at developing novel therapeutic strategies for diabetes mellitus.

Keywords: Ethnobotanical survey, diabetes mellitus, Medicinal plants, Bouira province, Algeria

Medicinal plants used in the treatment of asthma in western Algeria: an ethnobotanical survey in Sidi Bel Abbès, Oran, and Mascara

2025-09-29T01:09:50+00:00

Background: Respiratory diseases, particularly asthma, remain a significant public health challenge worldwide. In Algeria, they rank among the leading causes of medical consultations. While modern medicine offers symptomatic treatments, their limitations and adverse effects drive many communities toward herbal remedies. In this context, documenting traditional knowledge of plant use for respiratory disorders is essential for pharmacological innovation. This study aimed to document traditional knowledge on the use of medicinal plants for respiratory diseases, with a particular focus on asthma, in the regions of Sidi Bel Abbès, Oran, and Mascara in western Algeria.

Methods: An ethnobotanical survey was carried out from October to December 2024 among 400 randomly selected informants. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and free-listing techniques regarding species used, plant parts, and preparation methods. Botanical identification was performed using reference literature and recognized plant databases, and were validated by taxonomic specialists. Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) and Therapeutic Use Value (UV) indices were calculated.

Results: A total of 73 species across 36 botanical families were recorded. The most frequently cited species were Salvia argentea L., Lepidium sativum L., and Origanum vulgare L., primarily prepared as infusions or decoctions. Leaves were the most commonly used plant part, and the Lamiaceae family was predominant. Several previously undocumented uses were reported, reflecting a rich and dynamic traditional knowledge system.

Conclusion: This study confirms the continued use of several well-known medicinal plants for asthma management while documenting additional species and practices previously unreported in western Algeria. These findings not only reinforce the cultural and therapeutic significance of traditional knowledge but also offer valuable insights for future pharmacological investigations.

Keywords: Ethnobotanical survey; Asthma management; Medicinal plants; respiratory diseases; Traditional knowledge; Western Algeria; UV; RFC.

Cultural and socio-economic determinants of natural dye usage: A case of African dye plants in Benin

2025-07-06T13:00:47+00:00

Background: The use of natural dyes in Benin varies across cultural and regional contexts. This study explores traditional knowledge and practices while testing Phillips and Gentry’s hypothesis linking plant utility to taxonomic group, growth form, abundance, and size.

Methods: Ethnobotanical surveys were carried out in 31 communes (May–October 2024) with 722 participants selected using Dagnelie’s (1998) formula. Data on dye species, categories of use, determinants, and harvesting methods were analysed through informant consensus factor (ICF), fidelity level (FL), use value index (UVi), cultural importance index (CII), and statistical tests including Chi-square and correspondence factor analysis (CFA).

Results: Food-related dye use had the highest ICF (0.98), followed by cosmetics (0.92). Daniellia oliveri (Rolfe) Hutch. & Dalziel recorded the highest UVi (1.00), while Corchorus olitorius L., Spondias mombin L., and Khaya senegalensis (Desv.) A.Juss. showed moderate values (0.33–0.50). Parkia biglobosa (Jacq.) R.Br. ex G.Don, Philenoptera cyanescens (Schumach. & Thonn.) Roberty, and Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench were culturally significant. The dominant uses were food (31.89%) and medicine (24.60%). Influencing factors included ancestral knowledge (21.91%), colour (20.92%), rituals (15.51%), availability (8.57%), and accessibility (8.12%). CFA highlighted socio-cultural variation, while Chi-square revealed gender differences (p = 3.454e-05): women mainly used food dyes, men handicrafts. Occupation was also significant (p = 2.2e-16), with weavers, chiefs, and artisans as key users.

Conclusions: Dye plant use in Benin is diverse and shaped by socio-cultural drivers. Results partly support Phillips and Gentry’s hypothesis. Further studies should evaluate species threats and promote sustainable conservation.

Keywords: Producing-dye plants; indigenous dye plants, traditional knowledge; use determinant, Benin

Ethnobotanical survey of antimalarial and mosquito-repellent plants in the Centre and Hauts-Bassins Regions of Burkina Faso

2025-10-12T11:11:20+00:00

Background: In Burkina Faso, traditional medicine remains a key component of primary healthcare, particularly for malaria management. This study aimed to identify plant species with antimalarial and mosquito-repellent properties used in the Centre and Hauts-Bassins regions, to guide future pharmacological investigations.

Methods: From September to November 2022, an ethnobotanical survey was conducted among 161 traditional practitioners in urban (Ouagadougou, Bobo-Dioulasso) and rural (Nasso, Matourkou) areas. The study assessed practitioners’ knowledge of antiplasmodial and repellent plants across different localities. Data analysis using Excel and R included chi-square tests, citation frequency, and confirmatory factor analysis to reveal regional differences in knowledge.

Results: Most practitioners were illiterate (59%) but had extensive experience (1–85 years). A total of 83 plant species from 35 families were recorded as antimalarial remedies. The most frequently cited species were Terminalia leiocarpa (18.2%), Sarcocephalus latifolius (17.6%), and Cochlospermum planchonii (16.98%). The Fabaceae family was most represented, followed by Combretaceae and Rubiaceae. Decoction (83%) and oral administration (55%) were predominant, with leaves being the most used part (68%). For mosquito repellents, 16 species were identified, notably Ocimum americanum (19.98%), with leaves again most used (71%). Drying (84%) and fumigation (86%) were the main application methods.

Conclusions: This study provides valuable insight into traditional knowledge of antimalarial and mosquito-repellent plants in Burkina Faso. The documented species represent promising candidates for phytochemical and pharmacological validation, supporting the development of plant-based therapies in malaria control.

Keywords: Ethnobotanical survey; malaria; antimalarial and mosquito-repellent plants

Ethnobotanical significance of Citrullus landraces and wild relatives in Sesheke, Kaoma, and Mumbwa Districts of Zambia

2025-09-28T09:13:08+00:00

Background: Watermelon, cultivated globally, is an important genetic resource in traditional agricultural systems. Their ethnobotanical significance in such systems, however, remains underexplored, including within the Zambian context. This study explores the ethnobotanical significance of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. & Nakai, Cucurbitaceae) landraces, related species (C. amarus Schrad.) and their wild relatives in Sesheke, Kaoma, and Mumbwa Districts of Zambia.

Methods: Utilizing a qualitative and quantitative approach through questionnaires and semi-structured interviews, data were collected and organized using Microsoft Excel and analyzed using the ethnobotanyR version 0.1.9 package in R version 4.4.2 (2024-10-31 ucrt) to calculate quantitative indices.

Results: The study identified seven traditional cultivars: four C. amarus landraces (matanga, vikululu and sikululu), including kanyang’ombe, a wild form of C. amarus and three C. lanatus landraces (namunywa, mahapu, and makabe). Four categories of use were documented: food and nutrition, medicinal, fishing and fodder. Among these, the landrace sikululu in Sesheke recorded the highest ethnobotanical values (UR = 69, CI = 2.4, CVe = 0.9) within the Lozi-speaking community. Other landraces such as mahapu and kanyang’ombe were found to be more localized, likely influenced by cultural practices and environmental suitability, particularly in the semi-arid, sandy soil regions of Western Province.

Conclusions: Landrace diversity and ethnobotanical values were highest in Sesheke and Kaoma compared to Mumbwa, reflecting both ecological and cultural influences. The observed differences in landrace characteristics and their uses underscore the importance of local knowledge in plant selection and conservation. These findings highlight the critical need for targeted conservation strategies to preserve both the genetic diversity and cultural relevance of traditional watermelon landraces in Zambia’s rural communities.

Keywords: Citrullus amarus; C. lanatus; landraces; wild relatives; diversity; Ethnobotany; Ethnobotanical indices

Ethnomedicine in late-eighteenth-century Russia: domestic therapeutics in a modern context

2025-11-02T09:22:59+00:00

Background: Printed household medical handbooks offer a direct view of lay therapeutics, yet late-eighteenth-century Russian sources remain under-studied. This study examines P. N. Engalychev’s Prostonarodnyi Lechebnik [Popular Medical Handbook] (Moscow, 1799) to normalize and catalogue prescriptions, map vernacular names to Latin taxa, and characterize dosage forms and routes used in household practice.

Methods: We conducted qualitative analysis of the 1799 edition, extracting prescriptive entries and coding indication, ingredients (botanical taxa, plant-derived foods, fermented products, plant–mineral combinations, and non-botanical measures), dosage form, and route. Vernacular names were aligned with Latin taxa at species or, where necessary, genus/aggregate level using a concordance. Historical disease terms were harmonized into six clusters.

Results: Fifty-four unique prescriptive entries were identified: febrile/infectious conditions (24/54), gastrointestinal disorders (10/54), scurvy/vitamin-C deficiency (9/54), stone disease (6/54), acute injuries and animal bites (4/54), and obstetric situations (1/54). Oral administration predominated (41/54); topical procedures – compresses, poultices, gargles, steam inhalations – accounted for 13/54. Dosing relied on household measures (“cup,” “bottle,” zolotnik). Common household remedies recurred across indications and forms, including honey, rhubarb, sage, chamomile, garlic, oats and other cereals, berry juices, cabbage, brines, wine, and vinegar. The formulary was grounded in readily available temperate-zone herbs and foods, with occasional imported items such as clove and saffron.

Conclusions: The Lechebnik depicts a domestic, food-forward repertoire oriented to hydration, diet, and topical care, framed in household measures and adapted to resources. Standardized nomenclature, routes, and thematic assignments, plus a reproducible catalogue of fifty-four entries, provide a structured basis for comparative work on historical household medicine.

Keywords: Ethnomedicine; historical pharmacology; herbal remedies; 18th-century Russia; domestic medical practices

Ethnobotany of Northern Africa and Levant

2025-10-12T11:03:21+00:00

Ethnobotany of Northern Africa and Levant Rainer W. Bussmann, Mostafa Elachouri, and Zaal Kikvidze (Eds). Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2024, pp xxxvii + 2157, €379.99 (Hardcover), €406.59 (eBook), ISBN 978-3-031-39794-3 (Hardcover), ISBN 978-3-031-43105-0 (eBook) https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-43105-0

Can a single book truly capture centuries of plant knowledge, bridge different cultures, and inspire action for biodiversity preservation, all within two thousand pages? “Ethnobotany of Northern Africa and Levante” expertly curated by Rainer W. Bussmann, Mostafa Elachouri, and Zaal Kikvidze, not only attempts, but largely succeeds in this ambitious undertaking.

Ethnobotany of the Mountain Regions of Eastern Europe Carpathians-A Book Review

2025-11-13T07:11:05+00:00

Ethnobotany of the Mountain Regions of Eastern Europe Carpathians. Rainer W. Bussmann, Narel Y. Paniagua-Zambrana and Zaal Kikvidze (Eds). Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2025, pp xxxii + 3127, €353.09 (eBook), €329.99 (Hardcover), ISBN 978-3-031-87801-5 (Hardcover), ISBN 978-3-031-87802-2 (eBook). https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-87802-2

Can a single book capture centuries of plant knowledge, cultural traditions, and ecological diversity spread across one of Europe’s most complex mountain systems?

The latest volume in the Ethnobotany of Mountain Regions series attempts precisely that and succeeds remarkably well.

Edible species of Boraginales

2025-09-07T14:52:18+00:00

Background: The order Boraginales comprises numerous species known for their medicinal properties, but their role as food sources remains understudied and largely confined to local traditions. This review aims to systematically document edible species within this order, highlighting their nutritional, cultural and economic significance and advocating for their broader integration into global food systems.

Methods: This study compiles data from diverse botanical and ethnobotanical sources, identifying 107 edible species whitin Boraginales. The analysis includes taxonomic distribution, with the Boraginaceae family contributing the most species (50), followed by Cordiaceae (32), Hydrophyllaceae (10), Ehretiaceae (9), Heliotropiaceae (3), Lennoaceae (2), and Namaceae (1). Preliminary fieldwork in Iran supplements literature-based research to assess local availability and traditional uses.

Results: The findings reveal that edible Boraginales species are widely consumed in various regions, yet their potential remains undervalued in mainstream agriculture and nutrition. Many of these plants play crucial roles in local diets but lack comprehensive scientific evaluation of their cultivation and nutritional benefits.

Conclusions: In addition to identifying edible Boraginales species that are consumed only in a specific region, this review reveals a biogeographic split in organ use: temperate regions favor leafy herbaceous taxa, whereas seasonally dry and wet tropical regions emphasize fleshy fruits, especially within Cordia and Ehretia. Representative records illustrate this contrast: leafy parts are used in Europe/Turkey/Iran and North America, and fruit are used in Africa, the Neotropics, and South/Southeast Asia.

Keywords: Ethnobotany, Edible plants, Boraginales, Culinary traditions, Traditional knowledge

Two hundred years of plant blindness in Baden (Germany) - from C.C. Gmelin´s 1817 "Nothülfe gegen Misswachs" to the post Covid-19 foraging hype, including a preliminary Checklist of the Flora of Karlsruhe

2025-09-18T11:15:05+00:00

Background: Plants have been used for centuries in almost all cultures worldwide as traditional medicines to cure many chronic infections, including viral diseases. In recent decades, scientists have been attempting to scientifically validate the health-improving potential of functional and nutraceutical foods. At the same time, lockdowns due to SARS-CoV-2 had a profound influence on urban foraging behavior. On the other hand, 21 century plant blindness has been well documented. Our hypothesis however was that this is not the case, and that plant blindness, especially in more urban environments, is not a new phenomenon at all. During the curatorial work it became evident that the first director of the collection, CC Gmelin also focused on ethnobotanical topics to improve livelihoods and increase government revenue, publishing a foraging volume in 1817 to remedy the effects of the Napoleonic Wars and the "Summer without harvest" caused by the 1815 Tambora eruption. The pure fact that such a volume was of interest in 1817 seems to proof our hypothesis that plant blindness is by no means a recent phenomenon. Thus, we decided to have a closer look at the volume and to compare the indications given with more recent uses of the respective species.

Methods: For this review we used a manual transcript made from using a digital facsimile edition from the British Library. For most recent uses of species we consulted the broader global literature, especially the recent series "Ethnobotany of Mountain Regions". To elucidate if Gmelin indeed referenced the species he promoted, correctly identified the material, and to review the current availability of the species, we reviewed the complete currently accessible spermatophyte, lycophyte and pteridophyte plant collection in KR (about 250000 specimens), and used this resource to elaborate a first preliminary checklist of the Flora of Karlsruhe including vouchered material from 1785 - 2025.

Results: Gmelin's 18 century foraging handbook contains 169 species (144 plants, 23 fungi, 2 lichens) belonging to 122 genera (104 plants, 16 fungi, 2 lichens), in 54 families (38 plants, 14 fungi, 2 lichen). Of these 143 are recommended for food, 88 for fodder, and 14 for utensils. All the species had contemporary uses, mostly in Eastern Europe, while only very few have contemporary uses in the original region. The Flora of Karlsruhe has been vouchered since 1785, but despite decades of discussion no preliminary checklist had been published. We take this opportunity of review of Gmelin's "Nothülfe" book to present a first preliminary, voucher based, Checklist of the Flora of Karlsruhe 1785-2025 including almost 2600 species.

Discussion: The publication of Gmelin is certainly interesting, because it underlines first, that plant blindness is by no means a problem of the 21. century. Apparently over 200 years ago citizens had similar issues. It is however not entirely clear why Gmelin wrote this volume. Certainly, Carl Christian Gmelin was not only Director of the Natural History Museum and the Botanical Gardens in Karlsruhe, but also Privy Councilor of the Grand Duchy of Baden and published his guide at a time when the still young Grand Duchy of Baden was struggling with particularly serious social, economic, ecological, and political conflicts. What is striking though is that all species that Gmelin mentioned in his 1817 volume are still used in the wider European and Mediterranean region.

Conclusion: Our review indicates that "plant blindness" is by no means a phenomenon of the 21. century. Already over 200 years ago, a guidebook was necessary to allow "ordinary" citizens, not only in urban, but also rural areas, the identification of wild plants as food and forage, to remedy years of bad harvests. Herbarium collections are essential to allow for a detailed revision of such publications, and have the potential to elucidate both genetic, as well as metabolic changes in species, e.g. important for food and medicine. The foraging and self-medication craze during and after SARS-CoV-2 underlines the dire need for better taxonomic assessment of plants used by the wider public. Our presented Checklist of the Flora of Karlsruhe 1785-2025 will serve as baseline for future analyses of this urban flora.

Keywords: CC Gmelin, foraging, historic plant use, Baden, plant blindness

Exploring the therapeutic landscape of Baccharoides anthelmintica: from traditional use to modern applications

2025-09-10T13:47:58+00:00

Background: Baccharoides anthelmintica (also known as Vernonia anthelmintica), a medicinal plant from the Asteraceae family, is widely recognized in Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, and traditional Chinese medicine. It has been traditionally utilized to address inflammatory issues, gastrointestinal disorders, skin ailments, and reproductive health problems. Its seeds are particularly esteemed for their capability to eliminate parasitic worms, which is reflected in its species name “anthelmintica.” Beyond its ethnomedicinal importance, the plant has piqued the interest of modern science for its potential pharmacological benefits and industrial applications.

Methods: This review involved the examination of 25-30 original research studies, 10-15 review articles, classical literature, ethnobotanical surveys, and electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar). Local traditional knowledge was also gathered from healers in Uttarakhand. Information on phytochemical components, pharmacological effects, and therapeutic uses was systematically compiled, with a focus on its anthelmintic properties.

Results: Phytochemical investigations uncovered a variety of bioactive compounds, including sesquiterpene lactones, fatty acids, flavonoids and triterpenoids. These compounds exhibit antihelmintic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory effects. Their mechanisms include disruption of the parasite, inhibition of larval development, modulation of oxidative stress and induction of apoptosis in cancer cells.

Conclusions: B. anthelmintica stands out as a valuable natural resource for the development of innovative anthelmintic and multi-target therapeutic agents. Its diverse phytochemical profile provides a scientific foundation for traditional claims; however, additional in vivo studies, clinical trials, and safety assessments are necessary for sustainable pharmacological and industrial use.

Keywords: Baccharoides anthelmintica; Anthelmintic; Phytochemistry; Traditional Medicine; Asteraceae

The Role of exotic medicinal plants in the treatment of modern diseases: A study at public markets on a global scale

2025-10-06T08:33:41+00:00

Background: It is important to understand treatment strategies for modern illnesses that arise from social and environmental transformation associated with the process of modernization, including those that are new or becoming more common, in order to understand how local medical systems are evolving and facing the challenges associated with diagnosing and treating these diseases. Moreover, changes brought about by modernization, such as urbanization, may influence both the knowledge and the availability of resources for treating these diseases, including the use of exotic plants, which are becoming increasingly accessible in the context of globalization, particularly through local public markets, thereby enhancing access to such resources. The present study aimed to investigate the representation of exotic species in the treatment of modern diseases and whether the rate of urbanization explains the proportion of exotic and native species used in treatments for these diseases provided in local public markets of medicinal plants on a global scale.

Methods: A systematic review was conducted, following the PRISMA protocol, of studies on local public markets, to assess whether traded exotic species are preferentially used in the treatment of modern diseases compared to other ailments. We also examined whether the local rate of urbanization influenced the composition of traded exotic species compared to native species for the treatment of modern diseases. We used odds ratios, random-effects models, and simple linear regressions to analyze the data.

Results: Our findings suggest that traded exotic species are equally likely to be used to treat both modern and other diseases. Furthermore, the rate of urbanization does not influence the composition of traded exotic species for the treatment of these diseases when compared to native species.

Conclusions: Local public markets present complex dynamics that make them more homogeneous, which may explain the same proportion of exotic and native species used to treat modern diseases, as well as the same proportion of exotic species treating modern diseases and other diseases.

Keywords: medicinal plants; modern diseases; local public markets; medical systems; globalization; urbanization.

Mapping ethnobotanical research in Morocco (1997-2025): Scientific production, scientometric insights and emerging trends

2025-09-19T08:39:41+00:00

Background: Ethnobotanical research is a keystone of experimental studies and plays a pivotal role in traditional practices of several civilizations worldwide. It is a multidisciplinary field which consists various traditional botanical knowledge of various ethnic groups.

Methods: To gather available data on Moroccan ethnobotanical studies, a bibliometric analysis was conducted using the Scopus database as the largest database. The extracted data was analyzed using VOSviewer software to determine the research outputs, trends, gaps and future directions of research in this area.

Results: The obtained results revealed the ethnobotany study in Morocco began in 1997 and has growing continuously during the last decade. The highest number of publications was registered in 2022 with 22 documents. Zidane L is the most influential author with 20 publications with considerable relationships and citation impact (1582 citations). Morocco holds the highest number of publications, with strong international collaborations, especially with Italy (Link strength :52) followed by Spain and Egypt. The high frequency of keywords, such as ‘’medicinal plants’’, ‘’ethnobotany’’, and ‘’traditional medicine’’ during the last decades suggests their emergence as key themes in the evolving research field.

Conclusions: Ethnobotany research and applications have become a prominent publication in ethnobotanical surveys in Morocco, revealing considerable growth and remaining a key data source. Results from the current study provide prospects for documenting traditional knowledge and advancing sustainable development in Morocco, and they can guide future research avenues, multiple collaborations and direct policy decisions for preserving traditional heritage.

Keywords: Ethnobotanical research, Morocco, research trends, bibliometric analysis, scientometrics

Artemisia annua L. A review of its ethnobotanical history, bioactive compounds beyond Artemisinin, and pharmacological potentials

2025-10-30T12:20:25+00:00

Background: Plants are known to be reservoir of primary and secondary metabolites. Because secondary metabolites are naturally occurring compounds with the potential to improve human health, they are extremely important. Artemisia annua L. is used in traditional medicine to cure a wide range of conditions, such as coughs, diarrhea, malaria, and many more. Crude extracts and pure compounds of Artemisia annua L. have been the focus of numerous pharmacological investigations because of its extensive applications in traditional medicine. Existing review focuses on the plant application to treat malaria. Our search for relevant literature has yielded no comprehensive review of evaluations of A. annua. The review aimed to compile and evaluate its traditional uses, diverse chemical constituents, and its scientifically proven biological activities of A. annua.

Methods: Data on the A. annua, characteristic chemical constituents and biological activities were retrieved from internationally recognized scientific databases and reputable journals through online platforms such as Web of Science, PubMed, MDPI, Springer Nature, Wiley Online Library, and Elsevier. The World Flora Online (WFO) database (https://www.worldfloraonline.org) was used to taxonomically identify A. annua.

Results: The species traditionally has been used to cure various diseases such as malaria, cough, diarrhea, HIV, cancer, and others. It contains 251 different compounds under the groups of sesquiterpene, monoterpene, phenol, flavonoid and others. Pharmacologically, it has been reported to have some strong antioxidants, antibacterial, antimalarial, antiparasitic, and anticancer properties.

Conclusions: This review highlights dozens of non-artemisinin compounds have been identified; most of the in vivo research still uses crude extracts or pure artemisinin. Future work must focus on linking specific compounds, such as the flavonoids artemetin and casticin, to the observed in vivo anti-inflammatory, antiparasitic effects, anticancer and other biological activities.

Keywords: Artemisinin, Anticancer, Cytotoxicity, Drug discovery, Phytochemistry

Ethnomedicinal plants used for the treatment of snakebites in Nepal

2025-09-03T12:26:08+00:00

Background: Snakebite envenomation remains a critical public health issue in Nepal, where traditional healers rely on diverse medicinal plants for treatment.

Method: A systematic review of peer-reviewed and grey literature from 1950 to 2025 (June) regarding the indigenous use of plants in Nepal for snake bites was conducted using databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Science-Direct, as well as grey literature. A total of 115 articles out of 331 were analyzed and reviewed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) model.

Results: This study documents 161 plant species from 67 families, with Fabaceae (12), Asteraceae (9), and Lamiaceae (8) being the most prominent, likely due to their rich bioactive compounds. Herbs (50.3%) dominated the growth forms, followed by trees (19.9%) and shrubs (19.3%), reflecting their accessibility in traditional medicine. Leaves (49 species) were the most frequently used plant part, while roots (42) and whole plants (30) were also significant, indicating targeted therapeutic applications. Remedies were primarily administered topically (58 species) or orally (34), with some plants used as direct antidotes (12 species). Geographically, Chitwan, Parbat, Kanchanpur, and Kaski districts reported the highest plant records.

Conclusion: This study catalogues Nepal's rich tradition of using 161 medicinal plants from 67 families for snakebite treatment yet reveals a striking lack of scientific validation for these remedies. To address this critical gap, rigorous phytochemical and pharmacological investigations are urgently needed to evaluate their therapeutic potential and develop safe, effective treatments that could benefit snakebite victims worldwide.

Keywords: Antidote plants; Antivenom plants; Ethnopharmacology; Snake envenomation

A review of two thousand years of traditional medicine in Cajamarca, Peru: historical use of medicinal plants

2025-09-25T10:31:41+00:00

Background: In Peru, knowledge of traditional medicine dates back to pre-Inca times, such as “Cupisnique”, in northern Peru, where a complex system of traditional medicine was developed. With the arrival of the Spanish in Cajamarca in 1532, attempts were made to suppress these practices through evangelization; however, cultural resistance and the vastness of the territory favored their persistence, also integrating European elements.

Methods: A systematic review was conducted in scientific databases with broad coverage, such as Google Scholar and Web of Science (WOS), supplemented by physical libraries, with the aim of systematizing information related to the historical use and trade of medicinal plants in the department of Cajamarca, Peru.

Results: Results: The cultures that inhabited the Cajamarca valleys already practiced healing or shamanism, a tradition that has endured to the present day. During the colonial period, attempts were made to restrict traditional medicine, although species such as cinchona (Cinchona spp.) proved their therapeutic value. In the early and middle republican periods, interest was limited, but inventories and botanical studies were carried out. In the contemporary period, research in various scientific disciplines stands out. Markets supply Cajamarca and the Peruvian coast with medicinal plants, mainly of wild origin.

Conclusions: In the department of Cajamarca, the use of medicinal plants and traditional medicine originated in pre-Inca times and has endured throughout history. Today, it is reinforced by scientific contributions that highlight its cultural therapeutic, and economic value. It also plays a strategic role in supplying medicinal plant species to markets.

Keywords: Ethnobotany, Andean worldview, Shamanism, Preservation of knowledge, medicinal plants market.