Ethnobotany Research and Applications is an electronic, peer-reviewed, multi-disciplinary and multi-lingual journal devoted to the rapid dissemination of current research in any areas related to Ethnobiology. The journal is currently published by the Department of Ethnobotany, Institute of Botany, Ilia State University, Tbilisi, Georgia. The journal seeks manuscripts that are novel, integrative and written in ways that are accessible to a wide audience. This includes an array of disciplines (Biological and Social Sciences) concerned particularly with theoretical questions in the field of Ethnobiology that leads to practical applications. Articles can also be based on the perspectives of cultural practitioners and others with insights into plants, people and applied research. Database papers, Ethnobiological inventories, Ethnobotanical Notes, Methodology reviews, Education studies and Theoretical discussions are also published. Papers that are primarily agronomic or horticultural, and those concerned mainly with analytical data on the chemical constituents of plants, or bioassays are out of scope for ERA and should be submitted elsewhere. Ethnobotany Research and Applications is indexed in Scopus and Crossref, and does not charge any APC. Journal Metrics 3.8 CiteScore 2025 0.348 SJR 0.759 SNIP Q1 Cite Score Rank 2.98 Impact Score 24% Acceptance rate 3 days Submission to first decision (median) Ethnobotany Research and Applications is indexed in Scopus and Crossref. Ethnobotany Research and Applications (ISSN 1547-3465) is published online by the Department of Ethnobotany, Ilia State University, Tbilisi, Georgia.
Saving Knowledge, Department of Ethnobotany, Institute of Botany, Ilia State University, Tbilisi, Georgia
All articles are copyrighted by the first author and are published online by license from the first author. Articles are intended for free public distribution and discussion without charge. Accuracy of the content is the responsibility of the authors.
Traditional medicinal uses of Origanum (Lamiaceae) in Türkiye
Background: The genus Origanum has numerous endemic species distributed in Türkiye, which is one of the main diversity centers. Documenting information on traditional uses is important for the conservation of cultural heritage and biodiversity, especially in genera with high endemism rates. Methods: In this study, the traditional medicinal uses of Origanum species distributed in Türkiye were investigated through a comprehensive literature review using national and international databases. Ethnobotanical records were compiled from field-based studies, distribution and traditional use data on the species were mapped by provinces, and further ethnobotanical studies are recommended in provinces with high species diversity but limited ethnobotanical records. Results: A total of 40 ethnobotanical studies reporting medicinal uses of Origanum species were evaluated, and 13 taxa were identified as being used in traditional medicine. It was determined that the aerial parts of Origanum species were most commonly used, prepared as infusions for colds, abdominal pain, and flu. Mersin, Muğla and Manisa were identified as the provinces with the highest number of reported traditional uses. Adana and Hatay were suggested as potential provinces for new studies. Conclusions: The results demonstrate the importance of documenting traditional knowledge on Origanum species in Türkiye and highlight regions where further ethnobotanical studies are needed. This study provides a useful framework for future ethnobotanical and pharmacological research as well as for biodiversity conservation efforts. Keywords: Origanum; Ethnobotany; Medicinal plants; Traditional medicine; Türkiye; Endemics; Biodiversity
Copyright (c) 2026 Ahmet Ozan Cengiz, Yavuz Bülent Köse
Capsicum in the hands of tradition: ethnobotanical knowledge and conservation in Indigenous and Quilombola communities
Background: Capsicum peppers are among the oldest domesticated native crops in South America, with their dispersal and usage deeply embedded in the cultural traditions of Indigenous and Quilombola communities. Brazil stands as a significant center of Capsicum diversity, however, ethnobotanical knowledge regarding the relationships between these peppers and the communities that shaped their cultural preeminence remains limited. This study reviews the literature on ethnobotanical knowledge documented in previous studies involving Indigenous and Quilombola communities in Brazil, aiming to elucidate the role of these traditional communities in the diversification and conservation of the Capsicum genus. Methods: A literature review was conducted using academic databases, compiling ethnobotanical studies and cookbooks to assess the historical and current uses of peppers. Medicinal applications were classified according to the International Classification of Diseases (ICD), and a Geographic Information System (GIS) analysis was carried out to evaluate ex situ conservation coverage of landraces cultivated by the communities. Results: The cultural significance of Capsicum is reflected in its diverse uses. We identified 95 traditional Brazilian food recipes incorporating Capsicum fruits, with higher concentration in regions strongly influenced by Indigenous and Quilombola heritage. Medicinal applications were documented across twelve categories of ICD, and transcendental uses are expressive within these communities. There is underrepresentation in ex situ strategies due to bureaucratic barriers that limit research and conservation in Indigenous and Quilombola territories. Conclusions: The study highlights the need for integrated policies that promote germplasm conservation, valuing traditional knowledge and strengthening community participation in agrobiodiversity preservation, contributing to food security, health care, and the maintenance of cultural traditions in Brazil. Keywords: Plant genetic resources; traditional knowledge; in situ/on farm conservation; native landraces
Copyright (c) 2026 Jéssica Gonsalez Cruz, Carlos Fellipe Meurer de Lima, Daiane Rodeghiero Vahl, Araceli Aguilar-Meléndez, Rosa Lía Barbieri
A comprehensive review of regional distribution and traditional uses of Rhododendron campanulatum in the Indian Himalayas: Implications for sustainable conservation
Background: The Indian Himalayan Region (IHR), one of the world’s most prominent biodiversity hotspots, harbors rich alpine and sub-alpine flora that are vital for ecological stability and local livelihoods. Rhododendron campanulatum is a key species of significant ecological and cultural importance, widely distributed across temperate and sub-alpine zones at altitudes ranging from 2800 to 4800 m above sea level. Despite its critical role in slope stabilization, hydrological regulation, and habitat structuring, a comprehensive synthesis of its distribution, ecological functions, ethnobotanical relevance, and conservation challenges remains limited. Methods: A narrative review was performed with a thorough search of published literature on Rhododendron campanulatum. The peer-reviewed articles, review papers, book chapter, and reports were searched from main scientific databases such as Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, Wiley Online Library, and Taylor & Francis. The literature gathered was analyzed and synthesized in order to understand the distribution, ethnobotanical value, ecological roles, phytochemistry, conservation status and future research needs of the species. Results: R. campanulatum maintains high-altitude ecosystem integrity through slope stabilization, hydrological regulation, and biodiversity support. Ethnobotanical synthesis indicates differentiated use, with wood for fuel, flowers for food, medicinal, and ritual applications, and leaves for fumigation and related uses. The presence of diverse phenolic compounds like flavonoids and terpinoids in Rhododendron campanulatum suggests that the species possess significant antioxidant and stress protective mechanism, which may contribute to its adaptation to harsh high-altitude environments and support its traditional medicinal application. Concurrently, ecological studies demonstrating climate-sensitive growth, regeneration and population dynamics suggest that this species is highly responsive to changing temperature and moisture regimes, making it a useful indicator of climate-driven ecological change in Himalayan tree-line ecosystem. Despite its ecological importance, population assessment from the western Himalayan, revealed a substantial decline in adult density from 2845 stems/ha at 3100 m to 1210 stems/ha at 3550 m, representing a reduction of approximately 57.5%, highlighting the potential demographic shifts along elevational gradient. Conclusion: R. campanulatum represents a vital socio-ecological resource in the IHR. Climate change, overexploitation, grazing, and invasive species creating a major risk to it, notwithstanding its ecological and medicinal significance. Its natural regeneration and dispersal in the Himalayan region are being affected by these circumstances. Nevertheless, few research has thoroughly evaluated its long-term survival tactics, regeneration dynamics, and conservation status. So, the current study focuses on the Coordinated strategies involving in situ conservation, ex situ propagation, and community-based stewardship in the conservation and sustainable management of this species. Keywords: Climate change, Ethnobotany, Indian Himalayan region, Rhododendron campanulatum, Sustainable Conservation
Copyright (c) 2026 Jyotiraditya Das, Umesh Sharma Sharma, Shilpa Sharma, Rainer W Bussmann, Neeraj Sankhyan, Nirakar Bhol, Subhasmita Parida, Prajnashree Mallick, Kriti Singh
Plants with antidiabetic potential: A comprehensive review of ethnomedicinal plants used by tribal communities of Madhya Pradesh (Central India) for diabetes management
Background: Diabetes mellitus constitutes a significant global health issue, with the rate rising, especially in rural and resource-constrained regions where access to conventional treatment is challenging. In these conditions, traditional medical systems are crucial in disease management. This review article examines and analyzes the ethnomedicinal-based practices related to antidiabetic therapy among indigenous peoples of Madhya Pradesh, India. Methods: A comprehensive review of the literature was conducted utilizing various scientific resources, including “Google Scholar,” “ScienceDirect,” “PubMed,” and “Scopus.” Keywords used to identify relevant studies were “ethnomedicinal plants,” “diabetes,” “Madhya Pradesh,” and “antidiabetic.” Studies were screened based on established inclusion criteria that included detailed ethnomedicinal usage information. Results: An aggregate of 85 belonging to 78 genera and 45 distinct families were recorded, featuring Fabaceae as the predominant family. Trees and herbs were the most frequently represented growth forms and leaves, roots and bark were primarily utilized plant components. The primary modes of preparation were powder and decoction. The study additionally provides detailed information about the mode of use, such as dosage, frequency of administration and duration of treatment and explores the relationships between plant habit, plant parts, and preparation methods, revealing consistent ethnomedicinal patterns across the studies. Conclusions: The findings highlight the diversity and uniformity of traditional antidiabetic knowledge systems in the state of Madhya Pradesh and their importance for affordable health care resources. The structured documentation of usage practices offers a foundation for forthcoming pharmacological validation and emphasizes the necessity of standardization, experimental evaluation, and the conservation of medicinal plant resources. Keywords: Antidiabetic plants, Diabetes mellitus, Ethnomedicinal Plant, Madhya Pradesh, Traditional medicine
Copyright (c) 2026 Rut Megha, Shakun Mishra; Sunil Khristi; Hiren Soni
Ethnobotanical and pharmacognostic review of medicinal plants used for musculoskeletal disorders and paralysis in Ethiopia: Bridging traditional knowledge with pharmacological pvidence
Background: Traditional medicine remains an integral part of Ethiopia healthcare system, with a substantial proportion of the population relying on medicinal plants to manage conditions such as musculoskeletal disorders and paralysis. Despite their longstanding use, scientific evidence supporting the efficacy and safety of these remedies remain limited. This review provides available ethnobotanical studies to provide a comprehensive overview of medicinal plants used for these conditions and to future research directions. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, relevant data were retrieved from PubMed, Google Scholar, Research Gate, Scopus and Science Direct. Results: A total of 35 studies were included documenting 122 plant species belonging to 61 families, with Asteraceae, Fabaceae, and Solanaceae being the most represented. Herbs consti tuted the predominant growth form, while leaves and roots were the most frequently utilized plant parts. The majority of remedies were administered orally or applied topically. Conclusions: Approximately half of the reported plant species demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity; however, none have been scientifically evaluated for antiparalytic effects in the Ethiopian context. These findings highlight the need for rigorous pharmacological and clinical investigations to validate traditional practices and to facilitate the development of novel plant based therapeutic agents. Keywords: Ethnobotany, Ethiopian traditional medicine, Paralysis, Musculoskeletal
Copyright (c) 2026 Betelhem Awoke, Kaleab Asres
Traditional uses of native legumes of the Caatinga: an integrative review
Background: The Caatinga, an exclusively Brazilian phytogeographic domain, hosts remarkable biodiversity and provides essential resources for local populations, who have historically depended on its flora to meet diverse needs. Among its plant groups, the Leguminosae (Fabaceae) stands out as the most representative, with high nutritional and pharmacological potential. However, knowledge regarding the ethnobotanical uses of native legumes by traditional communities remained scattered across the literature, highlighting the need for integrative synthesis. Methods: This study consists of an integrative literature review that systematized the ethnobotanical roles of native legumes in the Caatinga. A total of 13 ethnobotanical studies published between 2000 and 2025 were analyzed. Data was collected through searches in Google Scholar, CAPES Journal Portal, and SciELO databases. Results: The analysis identified 43 useful species distributed across 24 genera. Among these, Amburana cearensis, Stryphnodendron adstringens, and Erythrina velutina were the most frequently cited. The studies revealed the multifunctionality of these species, with uses categorized into eight purposes. Medicinal use was predominant (63.8% of citations), followed by timber/energy, forage, food, and ritual applications. Conclusions: Native legumes of the Caatinga represent valuable and strategic resources for rural, indigenous, and quilombola communities, contributing to food security, healthcare, energy supply, and the maintenance of cultural and spiritual practices. This review also highlights underrepresented regions in the reviewed literature ethnobotanical knowledge and underscores the urgency of integrating traditional knowledge with biodiversity conservation strategies to ensure sustainable management in the face of increasing extractive pressures. Keywords: Fabaceae; Ethnobotany; Brazilian semiarid; Traditional knowledge.
Copyright (c) 2026 Izaias Regis Pereira Junior, Paulo Sérgio Santos-Neves, Eraldo Medeiros Costa Neto
Wild edible plants of Northeast India: A tripartite review of nutritional, pharmacological and market value
Background: Global food and nutritional insecurity, excavated by reliance on a narrow range of staple crops, has intensified micronutrient deficiencies worldwide. Wild edible plants (WEPs), embedded in indigenous knowledge systems, represent underutilized resources with nutritional, pharmacological, and economic potential. The North-Eastern Region (NER) of India, situated within two global biodiversity hotspots, harbors rich floral diversity and traditional WEP usage, yet their scientific validation and commercial exploration remain limited. Methods: A systematic review of peer-reviewed literature published between 2000 and 2025 was conducted using Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, PubMed, and related databases. Studies were screened using predefined keywords focusing on nutritional composition, pharmacological activities, bioactive compound isolation, commercial utilization, and value addition. Results: Among the initially retrieved records, 24 studies addressed nutritional aspects, 15 studies focused on commercial utilisation and 88 studies investigated medicinal uses. After applying the predefined eligibility criteria, 13 nutritional studies, 8 commercial utilisation studies and 63 medicinal utilisation studies were retained for qualitative synthesis, resulting in a total of 84 studies included in the final review. The findings indicate that many WEPs exhibit high protein, dietary fibre, essential micronutrient content, and diverse phytochemicals with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antidiabetic properties. Despite demonstrated bioactivity, large-scale commercialization and standardization remain limited. Conclusions: Among the initially retrieved records, 24 studies addressed nutritional aspects, 15 studies focused on commercial utilisation and 88 studies investigated medicinal uses. After applying the predefined eligibility criteria, 13 nutritional studies, 8 commercial utilisation studies and 63 medicinal utilisation studies were retained for qualitative synthesis, resulting in a total of 84 studies included in the final review. The findings indicate that many WEPs exhibit high protein, dietary fibre, essential micronutrient content, and diverse phytochemicals with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antidiabetic properties. Despite demonstrated bioactivity, large-scale commercialization and standardization remain limited. Keywords: Northeast India, Wild edible plants, Nutraceuticals, Bioactive compounds, Value addition
Copyright (c) 2026 Nayanabhiram Deka, Manab Jyoti Lagachu, Anindita Sarma, Kumananda Tayung
Sea Buckthorn (Hippophae spp.) in the Indian Himalayas: Integrating Ethnobotanical Knowledge, Phytomedicinal Potential, and Conservation Strategies
Background: The Indian Himalayan Region (IHR), a globally biodiversity hotspot, is ecologically vulnerable, requiring sustainable use of its native resources. Sea buckthorn (Hippophae spp.) is a keystone multipurpose shrub widely distributed across the IHR, valued for its ethnobotanical relevance, phytomedicinal potential, and ecological functions. However, a comprehensive synthesis integrating traditional knowledge, bioactive composition, and conservation challenges remains fragmented. Methods: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA 2020 guidelines to synthesize existing scientific evidence on Hippophae spp. in the IHR. A structured literature search was performed in the Scopus database for peer-reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2025. After screening and eligibility assessment, 48 studies were included for qualitative synthesis focusing on ethnobotanical applications, phytochemical composition, ecological roles, and conservation status. Results: Sea buckthorn is extensively utilized across Himalayan communities for food, traditional medicine, fodder, and livelihood support. It is rich in bioactive compounds, including vitamins, carotenoids, flavonoids, polyphenols, phytosterols, and essential fatty acids, conferring antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, and dermatological properties. Ecologically, the species enhances soil stabilization, improves moisture retention, and contributes to the restoration of degraded landscapes. Despite its multifunctional value, natural populations are increasingly threatened by overexploitation, habitat degradation, weak regeneration, erosion of indigenous knowledge, and climate change. Conclusion: Sea buckthorn represents a critical bioresource linking traditional healthcare systems with ecosystem resilience in the IHR. Integrating community-based conservation, sustainable harvesting practices, germplasm preservation, and value-addition strategies is essential to ensure its long-term sustainability and role in climate-resilient development.
Copyright (c) 2026 Kriti Singh, Umesh Sharma Sharma, Shilpa Sharma, Rainer W Bussmann, Neeraj Sankhyan, Jyotiraditya Das, Nirakar Bhol, Subhasmita Parida, Prajnashree Mallick
Ethnobotanical risk assessment of visually similar medicinal plants: a machine learning approach to identifying species prone to misidentification in traditional medicine
Background: Plant misidentification in traditional medicine is an underreported public health risk because visually similar medicinal species are often confused, leading to therapeutic failure or toxicity. Previous work addressed medicinal plant image classification or documented misidentification separately, but none linked machine-learning confusion patterns with pharmacological risk profiling. Methods: This study trained a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) and a Siamese Network with triplet loss on 20,000 leaf images from 20 medicinal plant species, sourced from two Bangladeshi repositories. The Siamese Network extracted 128-dimensional embeddings to compute Euclidean distances for all 190 species pairs. Misclassification rates were used to assign risk categories, and Pearson correlation tested the link between embedding proximity and error rates. Results: The CNN achieved 88.45% overall accuracy. The Siamese Network identified 14 critical pairs (≥6% misclassification) and 7 high-risk pairs (4-5%). The most confusable pair was Justicia adhatoda misidentified as Terminalia arjuna (14%), followed by J. adhatoda as Centella asiatica (12%), Kalanchoe pinnata as T. arjuna (11%), and K. pinnata as Mikania micrantha (10%). A significant negative correlation (r = −0.304, p < 0.0001) confirmed that closer embeddings correspond to higher error rates. Conclusions: The 21 high-risk pairs involve pharmacologically incompatible compounds: vasicine from J. adhatoda acts as a uterotonic and abortifacient; bufadienolides from K. pinnata cause cardiac glycoside‑like toxicity; cardenolides from Calotropis gigantea are cardiotoxic; and Hibiscus rosa‑sinensis has antifertility effects. These findings support prioritizing field training, visual guides, and digital tools to reduce plant misidentification in herbal medicine. Keywords: Medicinal plant misidentification; Ethnobotany; Deep learning; Siamese Network; Traditional medicine safety; Pharmacological risk; Plant morphology; Visual Similar
Copyright (c) 2026 I Gusti Ngurah Sentana Putra, Muhammad Syafiq, Utami Dyah Syafitri
Ethnobotany in contemporary science education: Meanings, experiences, and relevance among college learners in the Philippines
Background: This study explored the meanings, experiences, and perceived relevance of ethnobotany in contemporary science education among college learners in the Philippines while documenting their ethnobotanical knowledge as supporting evidence. It sought to understand how learners experience ethnobotany, the meanings they assign to it, and its perceived role in science learning. Methods: A descriptive phenomenological design complemented by ethnobotanical documentation was employed. Twenty-four college learners from a state university in the Philippines participated in semi-structured interviews and completed an ethnobotanical documentation sheet. Interview data were analyzed using Colaizzi’s phenomenological method, while ethnobotanical data were analyzed through frequency of citation (FC) and relative frequency of citation (RFC) to identify commonly recognized plant species and their uses. Results: Participants documented 38 plant species belonging to 24 botanical families, with Vitex negundo L. (Lagundi), Blumea balsamifera (L.) DC. (Sambong) and Psidium guajava L. (Bayabas) emerging as the most frequently cited species (RFC =1). Family members and elders were identified as the primary sources of ethnobotanical knowledge. Thematic analysis revealed that ethnobotany is experienced as everyday knowledge, learned through family and community interactions, and strengthened through lived experiences. Participants perceived ethnobotany as a bridge between culture and science, a tool for understanding scientific concepts, and a means of preserving indigenous and local knowledge. They also emphasized its value in promoting contextualized learning, environmental awareness, and cultural identity. Conclusions: Ethnobotany remains relevant in contemporary science education by connecting learners’ cultural experiences with scientific understanding and supporting contextualized, culturally responsive learning. However, its integration into formal science instruction may be constrained by curriculum demands and limited teacher preparation for incorporating indigenous and local knowledge. Addressing these challenges through curriculum support, localized learning resources, and professional development can help promote meaningful integration while preserving valuable local knowledge systems. Keywords: Ethnobotany, Science Education, Indigenous Knowledge, Culturally Responsive Teaching, Ethnoscience
Medicinal plants used in the traditional management of wounds and hypertension: An ethnoecological survey in Ouled Moussa, Algeria
Background: In Algeria, many communities rely on traditional knowledge of medicinal plants for daily healthcare. In Ouled Moussa, Boumerdes, local plants are still used to treat burns, wounds, and manage hypertension. However, scientific documentation in this region is limited. This study aims to document medicinal plants used in Ouled Moussa for wound care and hypertension, including their uses and ecological characteristics. Methods: Structured interviews with 44 herbalists in Ouled Moussa documented medicinal plants, their preparation, and uses. Ethnobotanical indices assessed species importance. Chorology was analyzed using Takhtajan’s classification, and conservation status was evaluated via the IUCN Red List. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Hierarchical Agglomerative Clustering (HAC) were applied to quantitative and binary data to identify groups of species. Results: The herbalists shared knowledge on 48 plant species across 26 families, with Lamiaceae and Asteraceae most frequently cited. Herbs were the predominant life form, with leaves as the main plant part used, followed by seeds and roots. Preparations included infusions, mixtures, and ointments. Most species are native to the Mediterranean or Euro-Siberian regions, and the majority are not currently threatened according to the 2024 IUCN Red List, though Saussurea costus is Critically Endangered and Marrubium vulgare Near Threatened. Notably, species such as Teucrium polium, Punica granatum, Carthamus caeruleus, and Hibiscus sabdariffa were widely cited for both wound care and managing blood pressure, reflecting a practical overlap valued by the community. Conclusions: These findings highlight a living tradition of using local plants for health needs in Ouled Moussa. Preserving this knowledge is essential, especially as some of these plants face pressures from environmental changes. Beyond cultural preservation, these practices may guide researchers in identifying plants with potential for developing new wound-healing and antihypertensive treatments. Further studies should explore the pharmacological properties of these plants to confirm their safety and effectiveness. Keywords: Ethnoecological, wound healing, hypertension, medicinal plants, PCA.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mohamed Mahdi Dahmani, Louai Benseghir, Mhamed Hariti
Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used to manage anxiety insomnia and depression in the Daraa-Tafilalet region
Background: Draa-Tafilalet is recognized as one of the most exceptional Moroccan regions in terms of traditional knowledge related to the use of plants for therapeutic purposes. Methods: The objective of the present study is to collect, analyze, and evaluate ethnobotanical knowledge concerning medicinal plants employed by the local population in the management of psychological disorders, notably anxiety, insomnia, and depression. Results: A total of 162 informants were interviewed within the framework of this research. Information was gathered through structured and semi-structured interviews with the local population. The data obtained from the informants were then analyzed by calculating certain indices of relative cultural importance (RCI) such as UV, FUV, ROP, and FL. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was also used in this study to compare certain characteristics of the species. A total, of 57 plant species belonging to 50 genera and 25 families and used in folk medicine were identified. Aliysia citrodora Paláu exhibited the highest use value (UV: 0.35625), while the family Verbenaceae showed the highest Family Use Value (FUV 0.209375). Regarding FL values, Allium sativum, Anisosciadium orientale, Atropa bella-donna, Cinnamomum cassia, Crataegus monogyna, Foeniculum vulgare, Herniaria fontanesii, Mentha × rotundifolia, Mentha viridis, Myrtus communis, Nigella sativa, Ocimum basilicum, Olea europaea, Pistacia atlantica, and Plantago akkensis achieved a Fidelity Level (FL) of 100% for the treatment of anxiety. For depression, Aconitum napellus, Capparis spinosa, Launaea arborescens, and Tetraclinis articulata each recorded a 100% Rank Order Priority (ROP). Finally, for insomnia, Curcuma longa and Jasminum officinale also recorded a 100% Rank Order Priority (ROP). Conclusions: This survey revealed interesting botanical and cultural results related to ethnobotanical knowledge adopted by the local population of Daraa-Tafilalet in the management of psychological disorders such as anxiety, insomnia, and depression. However, several experimental and field studies remain necessary to strengthen the validity and reliability of this type of research, particularly concerning pharmacological efficacy, safety of use, and methods of preparation of traditional remedies. Keywords: Ethnobotany, Insomnia, Anxiety, Depression, Medicinal plants
Copyright (c) 2026 Morad Hebi, Zakariae Mankour, Mohammed Ajebli, Ismail Bouadid, Mohamed Bhihi, Hazim Harouak, Driss Ousaaid, Salma Latique, Abderrahmane Moufid, Badreddine Moukafih, Abdeslam El Kartouti, Mohamed Eddouks
Ethnobotanical study of the medicinal plants used by rural and peri-urban communities along the bank of River Ganga extending from Katwa to Kalna, Purba Bardhaman, West Bengal, India
Background: India, recognized as a mega-diverse country, has been a reservoir of ethnomedicinal knowledge since ancient times. Rural and tribal communities possess a deep understanding of local flora, which they utilize in traditional healing practices. Given the high cost and side effects of conventional medicines, a large section of the population still depends on traditional phytomedicines. The present study aimed to document the indigenous knowledge of ethno-medicinal plants used by the people residing along the banks of the River Ganga in West Bengal, India. Methods: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted from May 2024 to April 2025. Data were collected through interviews, field observations, and group discussions with 180 informants. The collected information was analyzed using ethnobotanical indices, including Frequency of Citation (FC), Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), and Fidelity Level (FL), to assess the cultural importance and usage consistency of the reported species. Results: A total of 72 plant species belonging to 32 families were documented, with Fabaceae emerging as the most dominant family. Centella asiatica and Hibiscus rosa-sinensis showed the highest FC and RFC values, while Aloe vera exhibited the highest FL value. The most common ailments treated by these plants included digestive disorders, skin diseases, joint pain, diabetes, cold, cough, fever, and respiratory problems. Conclusions: The rich ethnobotanical heritage of communities along the Ganga River and provides a valuable inventory of traditional herbal knowledge. Plants with high ethnobotanical index values hold promise as potential sources of novel alternative drugs. Urgent measures are required to conserve these threatened species. Keywords: Ethnobotany, Indigenous knowledge, Ethnomedicine, Ailments, Quantitative ethnobotany.
Copyright (c) 2026 Saikat Mondal, Suvendu Pal, Arindam Ganguly, Samir Kumar Mukherjee
Application of molecular markers in the study of genetic diversity of ethnomedicinal plants: A systematic mapping of genotype-to-culture intersections
Background: Ethnomedicinal plants are biocultural resources whose identities, collection places, preparation practices, and therapeutic meanings are maintained within traditional knowledge systems. This review evaluates how molecular markers complement taxonomic, chemical, historical, and ethnographic evidence in authenticating materials, assessing genetic diversity, tracing place-based resources, and safeguarding medicinal knowledge. Methods: We conducted a systematic evidence-mapping review of literature published from January 1980 to May 2026. CNKI, Wanfang Data, and PubMed were used for reproducible quantitative retrieval; Web of Science Core Collection and Google Scholar supported citation tracing and cross-checking. The counted databases yielded 4527 records. After removing 718 duplicates, 3809 records were screened, 1892 were retained at title/abstract stage, 61 full texts were assessed, and 55 sources entered qualitative synthesis. Results: Molecular approaches progressed from fragment markers and standardized barcodes to genome-wide SNPs, organelle genomes, pangenomes, ancient DNA, and metabarcoding. Applications expanded from authentication to provenance, germplasm stewardship, functional variation, and market surveillance. Their ethnobotanical value was greatest when molecular data were linked to vouchers, vernacular names, preparation histories, chemical profiles, archaeological contexts, and knowledge holders. Conclusions: Molecular markers provide reproducible evidence for plant identity and diversity, but do not independently establish therapeutic efficacy, cultural meaning, or historical use. Culturally annotated reference libraries, community-engaged interpretation, functional markers, and integrated genomic-metabolomic frameworks are priorities for biocultural conservation and transparent herbal supply chains. Keywords: Molecular markers; Ethnomedicinal plants; Genetic diversity; DNA barcoding; DNA metabarcoding; Ancient DNA; Biocultural conservation
Copyright (c) 2026 红宇 车, Danning Pei, YiJin Liu, LiHao Guo, YuJie Liu, ShiYing Chen, HaiJun Li, Yu Shi, Lin Guo, Bo Liu
Indigenous ethnomedicinal knowledge and herbal remedies among Saharan women healers in Southwestern Algeria
Background: Traditional healing remains central to primary healthcare in Saharan communities across North Africa. In Algeria, ethnomedicinal knowledge is largely held by women healers. This study aimed to document herbal remedies used by Saharan women healers and to examine age- and practice-related variation in reported ethnomedicinal knowledge. Methods: We documented the practices of 39 women traditional healers from Bechar and Beni Abbes provinces. Ethnobotanical data were quantified using the Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), Fidelity Level (FL), and Informant Consensus Factor (ICF). Age-related variation was assessed by correlating informant age with use-report counts (UR), and experience-related differences were examined by comparing UR across practitioner groups. Results: A total of 776 UR were recorded, documenting 95 medicinal plant taxa belonging to 40 botanical families. Artemisia herba-alba was the most frequently cited species (RFC = 0.846). Informant consensus was highest for respiratory (ICF = 0.89) and digestive disorders (ICF = 0.76), and 11 taxa showed complete fidelity (FL = 100%). Approximately 25% of informants reported consulting biomedical services primarily for diagnostic purposes and subsequently relying on traditional remedies for management. Total UR showed a weak positive association with age, and professional Douaya reported higher UR values than non-regular traditional healing practitioners. Conclusions: Women healers reported a diverse ethnomedicinal repertoire. Lower UR among non-regular practitioners may reflect differences in reported ethnomedicinal knowledge and practice intensity, underscoring the need to document and safeguard women’s traditional healing knowledge. Keywords: Ethnobotany, Traditional healers, Women, Algerian Sahara, Medicinal plants, knowledge transmission
Copyright (c) 2026 Kelthoum Ahmed-Gaid, Khaled Sekkoum, Fatima Boukezoula, Hadjer Ahmed-Gaid, Saida Hanoun, Houssem Chenna, Ouafa Laghouati, Moufida Bouchekrit, Nour El Yakine Ahmed-Gaid
Ritual ecology and biocultural diversity in the Jolenan tradition of Somongari, Java, Indonesia: An ethnobiological study of ritual flora and fauna
Background: Indigenous ritual practices play an important role in maintaining biocultural diversity by embedding ecological knowledge within cultural and spiritual systems. However, many local traditions in Southeast Asia remain underrepresented in ethnobiological studies. This research examines the Jolenan tradition of the Javanese community in Somongari, Indonesia, as a form of ritualized utilization of biodiversity and indigenous knowledge. Methods: Qualitative ethnographic methods were applied through participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and documentation involving 18 informants. The study focused on identifying plant and animal resources used in ritual offerings (ubarampe) and interpreting their symbolic meanings. Results: A total of 22 species from 15 families were documented in ritual offerings used in the Jolenan tradition. The findings show that biological resources were selected not only for practical purposes but also for symbolic values related to gratitude, protection, harmony, prosperity, and cosmological balance. Various plant species, agricultural products, and animal-derived materials represent the close relationship between humans, nature, and spirituality. The ritual also functions as a mechanism for transmitting indigenous knowledge and cultural values across generations. Conclusions: The Jolenan tradition reflects a sophisticated system of ritual ecology in which biodiversity utilization is closely linked to cultural and spiritual values. This study highlights the importance of indigenous ritual practices in supporting biocultural conservation and preserving indigenous knowledge relevant to sustainability discourse. Keywords: ethnobiology; indigenous knowledge; biodiversity; ritual tradition; jolenan
Copyright (c) 2026 Fajar Adinugraha, Rivaldi Sitinjak, Dwi Anggoro Deskianto
Survey of medicinal herbaceous plants in Behali Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam, Northeast India: Traditional use patterns, phytodiversity, and conservation relevance among adjacent communities
Background: Behali Wildlife Sanctuary (BWS) harbors high biodiversity, including a rich diversity of herbaceous plants with considerable ethnomedicinal value. For generations, local communities in the surrounding areas have managed ailments such as fever, peptic ulcers, diabetes, headaches, wounds, digestive disorders, dysentery, malaria, and psoriasis through the use of these plants as traditional medicines. Scientific validation of these ethnomedicinal plants is essential to facilitate the identification of bioactive constituents, assessment of safety and efficacy, and exploration of their potential pharmaceutical applications. Methods: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted in BWS between February 2025 and January 2026. A total of 207 informants, comprising traditional healers, farmers, and elderly community members from five adjacent villages, were consulted through semi-structured interviews and guided field walks. Data were collected following standard ethnobotanical methodologies and analyzed using quantitative indices. Results: A total of 50 medicinally important herbaceous species belonging to 24 plant families were documented. Local inhabitants reported preparing herbal formulations from leaves, stems, rhizomes, roots, flowers, and whole plants for oral or topical application. Torenia crustacea (L.) Cham. & Schltdl. recorded the highest frequency of citation (FC = 116; RFC = 0.560), while Murdannia japonica (Thunb.) Faden recorded the lowest (FC = 2; RFC = 0.009). The Acanthaceae family showed the highest Family Importance Value (FIV = 0.576), while Asteraceae was the most species-rich family (7 species). Conclusions: This ethnobotanical inventory documents significant diversity in medicinal herbaceous plants and reveals substantial traditional knowledge of plant-based therapeutics within BWS communities. The results underscore the urgent need for bioassay validation of the most frequently cited species, particularly with respect to bioactive compound isolation, safety profiling, and pharmaceutical integration. Conservation of both plant diversity and traditional knowledge in the sanctuary should be prioritized. Keywords: Ethnobotany, Behali Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam, medicinal herbs, traditional medicine, Northeast India
Copyright (c) 2026 lakhyajit borah Borah
Observability and pharmacological calibration in psychoactive ethnobotany: Admixture selection and the discovery of Ayahuasca
Background: Traditional pharmacopoeias, including psychoactive plant traditions, contain pharmacologically active compounds at rates far above chance. The Amazonian ayahuasca complex — a brew requiring co-administration of an N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) source with a monoamine-oxidase inhibitor (MAO-I) — is the paradigm case: indigenous practitioners arrived at a highly specific pharmacological pairing navigating a flora of 14003 species. We apply the observability gradient framework to evaluate when traditional pharmacological knowledge tracks empirical reality. Methods: Three tests: (i) cross-cultural comparison of ceremony versus pharmacokinetic effect duration across eleven independent traditions spanning five continents and seven pharmacological classes; (ii) a 118-plant Amazonian admixture catalogue cross-classified by purpose observability and pharmacological validity (70 years of documentation); (iii) an agent-based simulation of guided iterative search for the DMT + MAO-I combination. Results: Ceremony duration tracks pharmacokinetic duration log-log (Pearson r = 0.977, p = 2.5 × 10⁻⁷, n = 11; slope 1.010). Active admixture plants cluster at the extremes of the purpose-observability distribution while candidate plants concentrate in the middle (χ²(2) = 20.2, p = 4.2 × 10⁻⁵), a bimodal pattern: the relationship between purpose observability and contemporary persistence is non-monotonic. Guided iterative search converges on the DMT + MAO-I target in centuries; pure random search fails within archaeologically plausible bounds. Conclusions: Traditional psychoactive ethnobotanical knowledge tracks pharmacological reality where outcome-feedback is observable. Observability offers a principled triage criterion for ethnopharmacological follow-up; small samples and single-author admixture coding warrant replication. Keywords: psychoactive ethnobotany; ayahuasca; Amazonian admixtures; ethnopharmacological concordance; ceremony duration; traditional pharmacopoeia; observability gradient; cross-cultural ethnobotany
Medicinal plants used traditionally for Urolithiasis management in Tunisia: An ethnobotanical survey
Background: Urolithiasis is a major global health concern due to its high recurrence rate and significant impact on patients’ quality of life. Documenting traditional knowledge of medicinal plants is essential for identifying potential alternative therapies. This study aimed to investigate plant-based remedies traditionally used for the treatment of urolithiasis in Tunisia. Methods: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted among 270 participants using semi-structured questionnaires. Quantitative indices, including Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), Use Value (UV), and Informant Consensus Factor (ICF), were calculated. Sociodemographic characteristics were also analyzed. Results: Women represented 80% of the survey respondents, while among participants reporting previous experience with urolithiasis, 69.2% were women. Individuals aged 20–40 years (53.8%) constituted the main users of medicinal plants. A total of 27 plant species were identified, with Petroselinum crispum, Ammi visnaga, and Herniaria hirsuta being the most frequently cited. Decoction (36.2%) and infusion were the predominant preparation methods. The ICF value for urolithiasis was 0.95, indicating a strong agreement among informants. Most treatments lasted less than three weeks, and adverse effects were rarely reported. Conclusions: The findings highlight the richness of ethnobotanical knowledge related to anti-urolithiatic plants in Tunisia. The high ICF values suggest promising candidates for further pharmacological validation. Standardization of preparation methods and clinical investigations are necessary to support their integration into modern therapeutic practices. Keywords: Ethnobotany; Medicinal plants; Urolithiasis; Anti-urolithiatic activity; Traditional knowledge; Herbal medicine
Copyright (c) 2026 Asma Chaibni, Maroua Tabouii, Yassine M'Rabet, Nedra Bennour, Sana Medimagh, Imene Ben Salah, Chedia Aouadhi, Hela Mahmoudi
Documenting the ethnobotanical plants of the Masherbrum valley along the Saltoro Glaciers, Karakorum Mountains
Background: The present study focused on documenting the ethnomedicinal knowledge originating from the Masherbrum valley Karakoram Range in Ghanche District, Baltistan region-Pakistan with an emphasis on the use of indigenous plant species prospective. Methods: Questionnaire semi-structured interviews were used to gather information from 217 participants encompassing 23 localities with 82.9% of men and 17.1% women. The majority of respondents (35.5%) were over 60 years, 54.4 % were illiterate and engaged with agriculture. A total of 129 species of medicinal plants from 48 families were mentioned. Results: Apiaceae, Lamiaceae and polygonaceae (7 each), Rosaceae (13) and Asteraceae (18) species were the most prominent families. A majority of plants were used to treat circulatory, gastrointestinal and cutaneous disorders with high informant consensus factor (ICF) values (0.970, 0.964 and 0.962, respectively. Regarding preparations, powders or used fresh stood out; for plant parts, leaves (31%), fruits (28%) and roots (19%) were preferred. Among the ten most distinctive plants, Bistorta vivipara (L.) Delarbre, Nepeta longibracteata Benth. and Inula rhizocephala Schrenk ex Fischer & C. A. Meyer were exclusive for medicinal uses. Allardia tridactylites (0.839), Rosa webbiana (0.774), and Acantholimon lycopodioides (0.705) have shown high relative frequency of citation (RFC) values denoting their cultural and medicinal importance. Conclusions: Traditional knowledge, however, is clearly fading among younger generations with less knowledge holders for transmission. Food security and sustainable healthcare in the study area depend on preserving this biocultural legacy as well as supporting research species of interest. Keywords: Ethnobotany, Medicinal Plants, Masherbrum Valley, Karakorum Mountain
Copyright (c) 2026 Muhammad Naseem, Zaheer Abbas, Ishtiaq Hussain, Muhammad Uzair , Shujaul Mulk Khan, Afiya Afzal Chughtai, Abdullah Abdullah , Alain Cuerrier
Medicinal species of Fathala forest and their demography in relation to human disturbances
Background: Forests provide essential ecosystem services, and their capacity to deliver these benefits depends on their ecological integrity. In many African forests, biodiversity loss remains has reduce the availability of useful plants species. Among these, medicinal plants are particularly important for primary healthcare but are frequently subjected to intensive and often unsustainable harvesting. This study aims to identify the woody species harvested for medicinal purposes and assess the population status of these species in the Fathala classified forest, Senegal. Methods: Data were collected through ethnobotanical surveys and a floristic inventory. Statistical analysis were perform to evaluate the different medicinal uses of woody species, the frequency of their use and the population structure and demography of harvested species in relation to different harvesting practices. Results: A total of 32 woody species were identified are being used to treat a wide range of aliments, with leaves, bark, and roots representing the principal plant parts harvested. Combretum glutinosum, Terminalia avicennioides, Terminalia macroptera, Cordyla pinnata, Combretum micranthum and Sclerocarya birrea were the most frequently used species used in traditional healthcare. Several of these species exhibited low density and basal area, together with irregular diameter class distributions, indicating disturbed population structures. Among the disturbances assessed, medium-intensity fires and medium-intensity pruning had the greatest effects on the population demography and stand structure of medicinal species comaped with debarking, grazing and root excavation. Conclusions: The findings highlight the urgent need to strengthen the conservation and sustainable management of medicinal plants by reducing harvesting pressure on this valuable biological resource. Effective implementation of existing forest management and conservation strategies is essential to ensure the long-term availability of medicinal plants and the ecosystem services they provide to local communities. Keywords: Degradation; Ethnobotanical knowledge; Therapeutic uses; Protected area; Population structure
Copyright (c) 2026 Mariama Diop, Fatimata Niang, Bienvenu Sambou, Abdoulaye Samb, Sara Danièle Dieng, Mamadou Diop
Ethnobotanical study of traditional knowledge on medicinal plants utilized by Tharu Tribe of Udham Singh Nagar, Uttarakhand, India
Background: Uttarakhand is immensely rich in biological diversity. Udham Singh Nagar district, located in the Himalayas of Uttarakhand, is populated by two indigenous tribes- Tharu and Buksa. The Tharu tribe is endowed with ethnobotanical knowledge of medicinal plants used for treating human illnesses. The purpose of the study is to investigate and document the utilization of the ethnomedicinal plants by the tribe. Methods: An ethnobotanical study was conducted among 21 Tharu villages in Khatima and Sitarganj blocks. In total, 23 traditional healers and knowledgeable informants were interviewed using a semi‑structured questionnaire, and quantitative indices such as Use Value (UV) and Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) were calculated to evaluate the documented plant use data. Results: A total of 71 plant species belonging to 40 families were documented as being used by Tharu community. Fabaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Acanthaceae, Asteraceae, Solanaceae, and Malvaceae were the dominant families that accounted for the largest number of medicinal plants. Leaves were the most commonly used plant part for remedy preparation. Conclusions: The present study emphasizes the significant utilization of medicinal plants by Tharus for the treatment of various ailments. Several earlier studies justified their traditional methods of healing. Additionally, this research also highlights the significance of preserving their traditional knowledge, their heritage and medicinal plants usage. It becomes imperative to carry out studies of pharmacological and biological activities of these plants to scientifically validate the therapeutic potential of these medicinal plants. Keywords: Tharu community, Traditional knowledge, Ethnomedicinal plants, Ethnobotanical knowledge.
Botanical solutions for gastrointestinal disorders: a quantitative ethnobotanical approach in the Balasore district of Odisha, India
Background: The world faces evolving challenges related to gastrointestinal (GI) diseases in the present scenario. In this context, the study highlighted a quantitative ethnomedicinal assessment of plants used to treat gastrointestinal disorders in the Balasore district of Odisha. Methods: The information was collected through semi-structured interviews with 48 informants to gather the ethnomedicinal data for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Quantitative indices such as Use Value (UV), Family Use Value (FUV) and Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) were calculated to determine the most useful plant species and plant family. Results: The present study documented a total of 104 plant species across 52 families used by indigenous communities to treat various GI diseases. Among the reported plant families, the family Fabaceae is the dominant, with 13 species, followed by the families Rubiaceae and Apocynaceae. Trees are the most dominant growth habit, followed by shrubs and herbs, whereas leaves are frequently used in disease treatment. The UV ranges from 0.12 to 0.93, whereas the RFC values range from 0.77 to 0.04. The UV and RFC are both highest in Aegle marmelos, whereas the FUV indicates that the family Zingiberaceae (0.89) is the most useful. Conclusions: The findings of this research offer detailed data regarding the diversity of medicinal plant species, their useful parts, mode of preparation, application and medicinal utility of the ethnic communities. Further studies regarding the scientific validation of obtained ethnomedicinal information by phytochemical analysis and detection of pharmacological activities are necessary for scientific authenticity. Keywords: Gastrointestinal diseases, Ethnomedicine, Use Value, conservation, coastal Odisha, Indigenous Knowledge, Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary
Copyright (c) 2026 Sanjay Kumar Behera, Abinash Sahoo, Keshari Prasad Mohanty, Adarsha Pradhan, Debasish Patra, Ranindra Kumar Nayak
Ethnobotanical and Ethnopharmacological surveys of Zygophyllum species used in Moroccan traditional medicine
Background: Zygophyllum species are widely used in Moroccan traditional medicine, yet comprehensive documentation of their usage patterns across multiple regions remains limited. This ethnobotanical survey aimed to document and analyze the traditional uses, usage modalities, and therapeutic indications of four Zygophyllum species (Zygophyllum gaetulum, Zygophyllum album, Zygophyllum cornutum, and Zygophyllum waterlotii) across six Moroccan regions. Methods: Semi-structured questionnaires were administered to 200 herbalists into Darija throughout five Moroccan regions (Marrakech, Casablanca, Rabat, Fez and Oujda). Data collected included sociodemographic characteristics, usage modalities, plant parts employed, preparation methods, administration routes, therapeutic indications, and outcomes. Ethnobotanical indices were calculated, and statistical associations were examined using chi-square tests. Results: The study revealed a predominance of male respondents (96.0%) aged over 40 years, with cultural heritage (66.5%) as the primary knowledge source. Gastrointestinal disorders were the most cited indications, particularly irritable bowel syndrome (FC = 76) and gastric pain (FC = 70). Dried plant material (95.5%) harvested in spring (91.0%) was preferred, with grinding and infusion as the main preparation methods. Symptomatic relief was reported in 82.7% of cases, with only 5.6% reporting side effects. Plant parts value analysis showed branches as the most utilized part. Statistical associations (p < 0.05) revealed coherent traditional medical logic linking preparation methods, dosage, and treatment duration to therapeutic outcomes. Conclusions: This study confirms the important role of Zygophyllum species in Moroccan traditional medicine, particularly for gastrointestinal disorders. The findings demonstrate strong concordance with pharmacological evidence and provide a foundation for future clinical and phytochemical investigations. Keywords: Ethnobotany survey, Zygophyllum, medicinal plants, antidiabetic properties, gastrointestinal disorders, Morocco traditional medicine.
Copyright (c) 2026 Khairo el Baria Metni, Hanane Boutaj, Meryem Qostal, Siham El Bassami, Bouchra Sillahi, Anass Doukkali, Abha Cherkani Hassani, Hanane Benzeid
Ethnobotany of Green Tea (Camellia sinensis L.) and its combinations with medicinal plants in the Beni Mellal region, Morocco
Background: Green tea (Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze) is widely consumed worldwide, and has a particular importance for several ethnic populations, mainly Asian and North African. This study assessed, for the first time, the ethnobotany of green tea intake and its combination with medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) in Morocco. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in the Beni Mellal-Khenifra region, (Morocco), consisting of 212 informants. Data were collected using a structured, paper-based questionnaire to collect comprehensive ethnobotanical information regarding the practices related to green tea consumption. Results: Results revealed a high prevalence of daily green tea consumption (88.68%), with most participants reporting an intake twice per day (40.57%) and two cups per consumption (50%). Green tea was mainly consumed alone or with food, and was generally preferred at moderate concentration and in sweetened form. About 83% of participants reported combining green tea with MAPs, either individually or in a mixture. Seventeen species belonging to seven botanical families were used individually, with Lamiaceae being the most represented and Asteraceae showing the highest FIV (0.462). Regarding mixtures, 31 species from 13 families were recorded, with Geraniaceae, Verbenaceae and Lamiaceae being the most prominent families. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the integral role of green tea in dietary habits of the local population, and highlights the ethnobotanical richness of MAPs used in its preparation, reflecting the transmission and conservation of traditional knowledge. Further investigations are required to assess the safety of the most commonly used species and their combinations, particularly in cases of regular and long-term consumption. Keywords: Green Tea; Medicinal and Aromatic Plants; Ethnobotany; Traditional practices; Beni Mellal-Khenifra region; Morocco
Copyright (c) 2026 Mohamed Bakha, Abdelkarim Khiraoui, Sanae Amkiss, Chaima El-Houssaini, Sliman Molyn, Mariem Ben-Said
Ethnobotanical focus on the traditional uses of plants in the Ziz Valley, Errachidia, in the Biosphere Reserve of the Oases of Southwestern Morocco by local populations
Background: Ziz Valley, part of the Southern Moroccan Biosphere Reserve, is a rich arid ecosystem that is ideal for a study of plant diversity that has adapted to extreme climate conditions. Objective: Our study aims to record the diversity of plant taxa used by the local Arabic and Amazigh-speaking communities of the Ziz Valley, Errachidia, Morocco, in the province of Errachidia. The research aims to describe traditional knowledge related to medicinal, food, cosmetic and forage use. Methods: To achieve this goal, a survey was carried out throughout the Study area, recording various plant taxa used and their distribution in botanical families. Quantitative ethnobotanical indices (UV, RFC, FUV) are used to describe traditional use in medicinal, food, cosmetic and other uses. Moreover, it explores how this generational knowledge is transferred and encoded in ethnos, as well as the risk of traditional knowledge loss caused by modernization and rural migration Results: 148 plant taxa from 52 families, mostly from the Lamiaceae, were listed, with 761 references. The majority of the plants are wild (56.5 % or cultivated (37.3 %). The use for medicinal purposes is the most prevalent (61.4 %), mostly for digestive, nervous and dermatological diseases. Then, culinary use (24.6 %). The parts harvested are the leaves, fruits and seeds. This is the traditional knowledge that has been documented by the local ethnotaxonomic system and has been passed on primarily through family and tribal structures. Regarding safety, 73% of informants reported no adverse effects and 9 % frequent incidents. Conclusion: Urgent documentation and conservation of traditional knowledge and endemic species in this ecosystem are imperative. Keywords: Ziz Valley, ethnobotanical survey, plant uses, traditional medicine, Ethnotaxonomy.
Copyright (c) 2026 Azzedine Hafid , Mehdi Bouraq , Abdelghani Bouchoyaa , Youssef Lahlou, Hanane Oualili , Abdelkhalik Sadiki , Abdellah Maissour , Malika Belfaiza , Kacem Makroum , Ahmed Boukil , Abdelmajid Khabbach
Quantitative ethnobotanical analysis of plants used for livelihood maintenance of tribal communities in Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary, Odisha, India
Background: Plant resources play crucial role in tribal life. Tribal inhabitants of Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary (BWS) in Odisha, India are depended on sanctuary forest for their livelihood. Present study was a quantitative ethnobotanical assessment to understand the dependency of tribal inhabitants of BWS on plant resources, identify plants of potential use and recognize plants at the risk of overexploitation. Methods: The study was conducted through field observation, focused group discussion and semi-structured interviews. Data was collected from total of 306 informants and quantitative ethnobotanical indices relative frequency citation (RFC), use value (UV), plant part value (PPV), and category use value (UVk) were used to evaluate the useful plant species. Results: The study recorded 137 useful plant species classified under 10 different use categories agriculture, food, fodder, fuelwood, house building, household essentials, medicine, ornamental, personal hygiene and religious activities. Highest number of species were used as medicine (27%), followed by food (25%) and fuel-wood (13%). Plant part value (PPV) of leaf (24.5) was highest followed by fruit (20.3) and wood (15.2). The use value (UVk) of food (0.75) was maximum followed by personal hygiene (0.74), religious need (0.67) and household essential (0.65). Madhuca indica and Shorea robusta were among the multipurpose species having possible risk of overexploitation. Conclusions: BWS is a treasure of useful plant species, however overexploitation of resources may affect density, and natural regeneration of forest flora. Therefore, sustainable use and conservation of multipurpose species is essential. Keywords: Ethnobotanical indices, use value, plant part value, use category, over exploitation
Copyright (c) 2026 Anuradha Pradhan, Bandana Kullu, Hatanath Subudhi
Ethnobotanical knowledge and utilization patterns of plant species in two districts of Jammu and Kashmir, India
Background: Despite the rich floristic diversity of the Kashmir Himalaya, comprehensive information encompassing multiple categories of plant use remains limited. The present study aimed to document the floristic diversity, ethnobotanical uses, plant parts utilized, conservation status, and quantitative importance of useful plant species in the region. Methods: Ethnobotanical surveys were conducted between 2018 and 2024 using open-ended semi-structured interviews with 75 respondents representing different age groups, genders, educational backgrounds, and occupations. Plant specimens were collected and identified following standard taxonomic procedures. Quantitative ethnobotanical analysis was performed using Frequency of Citation (FC) and Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC). Results: Overall, seventy-seven medicinal plant species distributed in 40 families were found to be used by communities for treating over 67 diseases. The most commonly used medicinal plants included Prunus africana (12), Hoslundia opposita (11), Bidens pilosa (11), Conyza sumatrensis (9) and Ageratum conyzoides (9). The family of Asteraceae and Fabaceae made up most of the medicinal plant species used by the natives. The most used plant parts are the leaves, and boiling water is the main solvent used in the preparation of these herbal remedies, which are taken mainly orally. Conclusions: The study highlights the rich ethnobotanical heritage of the Kashmir Himalaya and demonstrates the continued dependence of local communities on plant resources for healthcare and livelihood support. Keywords: Kashmir Himalaya; Ethnobotany; Threatened species; Utilization pattern; Conservation
Copyright (c) 2026 Seema Bin Zanit Zeeat, Mohd Suliman Dar
Cross-cultural ethnobotanical knowledge of Sandoricum koetjape (Burm.f.) Merr. supported by multi-target ethnopharmacological evidence
Background: Sandoricum koetjape (Burm.f.) Merr is embedded in Southeast Asian ethnobotanical knowledge, where bark, leaves, roots, and fruit pericarps are used for digestive disorders, fever, inflammation, postpartum recovery, wounds, and functional beverages. Although these practices are culturally diverse, they converge around symptom clusters associated with inflammatory and metabolic imbalance. This study examined whether cross-cultural plant-part selection and preparation patterns can be linked with supporting ethnopharmacological evidence. Methods: Published ethnobotanical records were synthesized to map plant parts, traditional uses, preparation practices, and reported bioactive constituents. Based on documented use, leaves and fruit pericarps were evaluated using α-glucosidase inhibition as a limited supporting assay. Reported triterpenoids and limonoids were further assessed through drug-likeness screening, target prediction, network pharmacology, PPI analysis, GO/KEGG enrichment, and molecular docking to explore plausible mechanisms related to inflammation, metabolic regulation, and cancer-associated pathways. Results: Ethnobotanical records showed repeated cross-cultural use of bark, leaves, roots, and fruit-derived materials, with decoction, infusion, topical application, and functional beverages. Leaf extract showed moderate alpha-glucosidase inhibition (IC50 = 228.27 ± 0.91 ppm), whereas fruit pericarp activity was weak (>500 ppm). Network analyses identified IL6, TNF, PPARG, and TP53 as key inflammatory and metabolic-oncogenic regulators connecting traditional symptom categories between selected compounds and these proteins. Conclusions: S. koetjape use appears to reflect culturally transmitted plant-part selection associated with inflammation, digestive disturbance, and metabolic regulation. Laboratory and computational findings should be interpreted as supportive, hypothesis-generating evidence rather than direct therapeutic proof. Keywords: Ethnobotany, Ethnopharmacology, Traditional knowledge, Triterpenoid, Sandoricum koetjape.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nur Anisa, Asril Burhan, Hersan Bayu Kurnia, Ulfa Febiana Whatin, I Gusti Ngurah Sentana Putra, M. Salman Nuryahya, Dyah Ayu Puspitasari, Fajar Dini, Rosa Amelia, Rati Lestari, Arman, Muh Akbar Idris, Silmi Mariya, Berry Juliandi
Magico-religious plants of Sarkaghat tehsil in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh (India): An ethnobotanical perspective from the north-western Himalaya
Background: Magico-religious plants form an essential part of traditional knowledge systems in the Himalayan area where local communities use them in rituals, spiritual healing, festivals, and socio-cultural activities. Despite Himachal Pradesh's rich cultural past, precise ethnobotanical knowledge on magico-religious plant activities in Sarkaghat tehsil of Mandi district is poorly documented. Methods: The present study was carried out during March 2024-October 2025 in Sarkaghat tehsil of Mandi district (Himachal Pradesh). Ethnobotanical data had been collected through field surveys, semi-structured interviews, focused group discussions and several field trips engaging 75 informants, including priests, elderly villagers, farmers and home practitioners. Quantitative ethnobotanical indices including Use Value (UV), Cultural Importance Index (CI), Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) and Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) were calculated in order to assess the cultural significance of the documented plant species. Results: A total of 35 plant species from 24 families were recorded for their application in rituals, worship, protection against evil spirits, marriage ceremonies, fire rituals and ancestoral rites. Poaceae family was recorded as the predominant family with six species. Whole plant (25.42%) was the most common type of plant usage which was followed by other parts like leaves (18.64%) and stems (16.95%). Ocimum tenuiflorum had the most significant Use Value and Cultural Importance Index (0.160 each) whereas Dendrocalamus strictus and Ocimum tenuiflorum exhibited the highest Relative Frequency of Citation (0.866). The greatest Informant Consensus Factor was recorded for ancestral and death-related rituals (0.93) followed by planetary calming rituals (0.92) and marriage-related rituals (0.91). Gender-based investigation revealed that women had greater awareness of home ritual plants whereas males focused on species related to ceremonies and temples. Conclusions: The research emphasizes the significant correlation between traditional faiths and biodiversity preservation in the North-Western Himalaya. The strong cultural consensus about ritual plant usage shows the persistent existence of preexisting traditional knowledge systems. A number of culturally significant species identified in the research require conservation efforts due to rising human-induced challenges and decreasing transfer of traditional knowledge. The findings provide valuable baseline information for future ethnobotanical, phytocultural and conservation-related research in the Himalayan region. Keywords: Magico-religious, Ethnobotany, Sarkaghat, N.W. Himalaya, Traditional knowledge, Biodiversity
Copyright (c) 2026 Arti Devi, Suresh Kumar
Ethnoweaving in Sumba Island, Indonesia: Ethnobotanical knowledge and use of natural dye plants
Background: Traditional weaving on Sumba Island, Indonesia, represents an important cultural heritage closely linked with the use of natural dyes obtained from local plants. The limited ethnobotanical data of the natural dye plants, their uses, and their supply sustainability pose a high risk to both cultural preservation and forest-based livelihoods. Methods: Semi-structured interviews, participant observations, and plant identification were used to gather ethnobotanical data. 122 informants from six Sumba weaving communities participated in the study. Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), Informant Consensus Factor (ICF), and a simplified Functional Redundancy Index (FRI) were used to analyze the data regarding cultural importance, knowledge standardization, and substitution flexibility. Results: 21 plant species from 14 families were identified and categorized into six functional dye categories. All informants mentioned Indigofera tinctoria L. (blue), Morinda citrifolia L. (red), and Symplocos fasciculata Zoll. (mordant) (RFC=1.00), according to RFC analysis. All three species were found to be fundamental. Informant consensus was consistently high across all categories (ICF>0.982), indicating standardized knowledge transmission. However, functional redundancy values were consistently low (FRI<0.023), indicating concentration of use on few key species and limited culturally recognized substitution. Conclusions: Sumba's ethnoweaving is a plant-based cultural production system that suggests potential vulnerability due to the limited alternative species but stable due to the presence of key species. The vulnerability is further increased by overexploitation, land conversion, and pressure from synthetic dyes. By integrating a comprehensive ethnobotanical inventory and quantitative structural analysis, the study provides an analytical framework for the sustainability of weaving traditions on Sumba Island and in similar areas. Keywords: Ethnobotany; Ethnoweaving, Natural dyes; Indigofera tinctoria; Morinda citrifolia; Symplocos fasciculata
Copyright (c) 2026 Eko Pujiono, Wieke Herningtyas, Rajif Iryadi, Reni Wahyuningtyas, Jalma Giring Sukmawati, Muhammad Saputra, Suyogia Nur Aziz, Tomy Nggimu Tara, Resti Rambu Ana, Martini Ndamunamu
Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants used by Dizi people in Maji District, Southwest Ethiopia
Background: Traditional medicine is a cornerstone of Ethiopia's healthcare system, yet the associated traditional knowledge, particularly in biodiverse regions like the southwest, is under-documented and at risk of being lost. This study aimed to document the medicinal plants used by Dizi people in Maji District, Southwest Ethiopia, evaluate their uses, and identify threats to their sustainability. Methods: The study was carried out from September 2024 to January 2025. Ethnobotanical data were collected from a total of 311 informants. Descriptive statistics and quantitative indices, including Informant Consensus Factor, Fidelity Level, preference ranking, and direct matrix ranking, were employed to evaluate the plant use patterns. One-way ANOVA, and independent t-test were performed with R version 4.2.1 to compare the medicinal knowledge of informants. Results: A total of 113 medicinal plant species belonging to 102 genera and 51 families were documented for treating 51 different human and livestock ailments. Asteraceae and Fabaceae were the most dominant families recorded. Herbs and shrubs comprise the largest proportion of growth habits. Leaves and roots account for the highest proportion of plant parts used. The majority of the medicinal plant species (67.25%) were collected from wild habitats, followed by semi-wild (20.35%), and only small portions (12.39%) were from cultivated habitats. Embelia schimperi and Nerophila senegambiensis had the highest Fidelity Level (100%) against their respective ailments. A Significant statistical difference in medicinal plant knowledge between different sociodemographic groups was observed. Conclusion: The Maji district possesses a rich diversity of medicinal plants and associated indigenous knowledge. However, this knowledge is primarily held by the older generation and is threatened by factors such as agricultural expansion. The heavy reliance on wild-harvested plants highlights a practical need for conservation action. Keywords: Ethnobotany, Indigenous knowledge, Maji district, Medicinal plant
Copyright (c) 2026 Girma Boz, Dereje Denu, Kittessa Hundera , Melesse Maryo
Traditional uses, ethnobotanical significance, and resource potential of Ephedra equisetina Bunge in the Kurshab River Basin, Kyrgyzstan
Background: The Kurshab River Basin (Osh Region, Kyrgyzstan) is an area where traditional knowledge related to the use of wild plants has been preserved for generations. Among the species of particular cultural importance is Ephedra equisetina Bunge, which is widely known and used by local communities. However, information on local harvesting practices, processing methods, and traditional applications of this species remains insufficiently documented. Methods: Field studies were conducted during 2023–2025 in the villages of Bulolu, Askaly-Chaty, and Kyzyl-Korgon within the Kurshab River Basin. Botanical surveys, herbarium collection, and ethnobotanical investigations were carried out. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 57 informants to document local knowledge regarding the harvesting, processing, and use of Ephedra equisetina. Historical sources, including the works of Theophrastus and Ibn Sina’s Canon of Medicine, were used for comparative analysis. Results: A total of 57 informants (32 women and 25 men) participated in the study. Fifty-two respondents were familiar with Ephedra equisetina, whereas five younger informants reported no knowledge of the species. The most common forms of use included the traditional fruit jam “shirne”, mixtures of fruits with clarified butter, and preparations made from young shoots. Harvesting practices showed clear seasonality, with shoots collected mainly in spring and fruits harvested during late summer and autumn. Comparison with historical sources revealed similarities between contemporary and historical perceptions of the genus Ephedra. Resource assessments indicated that E. equisetina occupies approximately 450–500 ha within the study area, with a biological stock estimated at about 125 t. Conclusions: Ephedra equisetina remains an important component of traditional plant use in the Kurshab River Basin. Differences in knowledge among age groups suggest a gradual decline in the transmission of traditional ethnobotanical knowledge. Documentation of local practices contributes to the preservation of biocultural heritage and provides a basis for the sustainable use and conservation of plant resources in Eastern Alay. Keywords: Ephedra equisetina, ethnobotany, traditional knowledge, medicinal plants, biocultural heritage, Eastern Alay.
Copyright (c) 2026 Bolotbek Karimov, Trobjon Makhkamov, Rainer W Bussmann, Aida Dursunbaeva, Zhazgul Abdyrakhmanova, Kenzhekul Omurova, Gulmira Dolonova, Ainazik Boronbaeva, Mokhidil Baratova, Menai Tairzhanova
Urban harvest pressures: Bark stripping of African Mahogany (Khaya senegalensis) trees for medicinal use in the Northern Region of Ghana
Background: Khaya senegalensis (Desr.) A.Juss. (African mahogany) is planted in urban landscapes as an amenity tree but also exploited for medicinal bark. However, little is known about bark stripping pressure and its link to urban tree health. This study was aimed at assessing the extent and intensity of bark-stripping among African mahogany trees in urban spaces and examining associations between bark-stripping, stem burl formation and stem decay. Methods: Field survey was conducted in three districts (Tamale, Sagnarigu and Tolon) in the northern region of Ghana between 2017 and 2018. Multi-stage sampling together with tree inventory techniques were used to assess tree height, diameter at breast height (DBH), presence of bark stripping, stem burls, stem decay, and stripping intensity of bark-stripped trees. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics as well as logistic regression and chi-square tests to assess relationships among variables. Results: A total of 509 African mahogany trees were assessed across the three districts. Bark-stripping was intensive and widespread (80% of trees). Prevalence was highest in Tolon district compared to the more urbanized Tamale Metropolis. Bark-stripping was a significant predictor of stem burl formation (p < 0.001), which in turn significantly predicted stem decay (p = 0.039). Bark-stripped trees were 26 times more likely to develop stem burls, and trees with stem burls were four times more likely to show stem decay. Conclusions: Bark-stripping intensity is high among urban African mahogany trees in the Northern Region of Ghana and is associated with burl formation and increased risk of stem decay. Keywords: Ethnobotany, stem decay, stem burls, tree health, amenity trees
Copyright (c) 2026 Hamza Issifu, Ibrahim Sita, Edmund Afful
Quantitative ethnobotanical assessment of three medicinal plant species in the Hindu Kush–Himalayan region of Swat, Pakistan
Background: Traditional plant knowledge remains an important component of healthcare and livelihood systems in the mountainous regions of Pakistan. Traditional plant knowledge remains an important component of healthcare and livelihood systems in the mountainous regions of Pakistan. This study documents the ethnobotanical uses, literature-based phytochemical evidence, and conservation implications of three selected medicinal plant species while providing the first comparative quantitative ethnobotanical and ethnoveterinary assessment of these underexplored taxa in District Swat, Pakistan. Methods: Ethnobotanical data were collected between July 2025 and March 2026 from 45 key informants using purposive sampling through semi-structured interviews, guided field walks and participatory discussions. Data collection continued until information saturation was achieved. Quantitative indices including Frequency of Citation, Relative Frequency of Citation, Use Value, and Fidelity Level were used to assess cultural significance. Results: A total of 167 use reports were recorded throughout the survey. Allium filidens showed the highest ethnobotanical importance with 82 use reports, FC (40), RFC (0.89), UV (1.82) and FL (85%). Astragalus kanjuensis accounted for 58 use reports with FC (32), RFC (0.71) and UV (1.29), while Delphinium suave recorded 49 use reports with FC (28), RFC (0.62) and UV (1.09). The recorded uses included food, medicine, ethnoveterinary care, fodder, and wound healing. Literature reports indicate that related species within these genera contain flavonoids, saponins, polysaccharides, organosulfur compounds and diterpenoid alkaloids associated with antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activities. Conclusions: The studied species are important biocultural resources supporting local healthcare traditions. Field observations and informant perceptions suggest localized population pressures associated with overharvesting and habitat degradation, highlighting the need for precautionary conservation measures. Keywords: Ethnopharmacology; Cultural heritage; Use value; Indigenous knowledge systems; Conservation; Sustainable utilization
Copyright (c) 2026 Rizwan Malik, Shazia Sakhi, Shujat Ali, Salahud Din, Saira Malik, Naveed Alam
Ethnobotanical survey of the endemic Retama dasycarpa Cross. in the Rabat–Sale–Kenitra region, Morocco
Background: Retama dasycarpa, an endemic Moroccan Fabaceae species, plays a significant role in the traditional medicine practices of local communities and herbalists. The present work aims to document the ethnobotanical knowledge related to this species, including its therapeutic uses, the specific plant parts used, as well as preparation methods, and routes of administration. Additionally, it explores herbalists’ perceptions regarding the efficacy and safety of this plant’s use. Methods: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted using a structured questionnaire administered to herbalists in the Rabat-Salé-Kénitra region. The data collected included the sociodemographic characteristics of the informants, the local vernacular names of this plant, harvesting areas, the parts used, preparation methods, routes of administration, and the diseases treated. Additionally, the study assessed user satisfaction and the potential occurrence of adverse effects associated with the plant’s use. Results: R. dasycarpa, commonly known as “rtem,” is mainly harvested from the wild and used to address various health issues, including diabetes, digestive disorders, and skin diseases. The most commonly used parts are the whole plant, cladodes, and roots, which are typically prepared as decoctions or infusions. Conclusions: This study highlights the significance of preserving and promoting traditional ethnobotanical knowledge associated with this species. It also highlights the necessity for additional phytochemical and pharmacological research to scientifically validate its therapeutic properties and evaluate its safety profile. Keywords: Retama dasycarpa, Ethnobotany survey, Traditional medicine, Herbalists, Rabat-Salé-Kénitra, Therapeutic uses.
Copyright (c) 2026 Siham El Bassami, Hanane Boutaj, Fatima Zahra Benkhouili, Khairo El Baria Metni, Bouchra Sillahi, Salima Elasraoui, Youssra Iglili, Anass Doukkali, Hanane Benzeid
Ethnobotanical inventory of spontaneous medicinal plants in the rural region of Chehama (Tiaret, western Algeria): floristic richness and traditional knowledge valorization
Background: Medicinal plants are considered a cornerstone in human life, and have long been used as a primary source of treatment for various illnesses. Floristic inventories helped identify species used by local populations, preserve traditional knowledge from erosion, and support biodiversity conservation. This study presents a systematic floristic inventory of medicinal plants in the Chehama region (Tiaret-western Algeria), aiming to document native species and their traditional uses. Methods: A systematic inventory of spontaneous medicinal flora was conducted during the optimal vegetation period between 2021 and 2024. Sampling was based on ecologically homogeneous zones, with 100m2 surface. Taxa identification was done simultaneously in the field and the laboratory. Furthermore, their medicinal status was cross-referenced with existing literature, including ethnobotanical studies and books of Algerian medicinal plants. Results: Out of 207 recorded species, 118 were medicinal, representing 102 genera and 40 botanical families. The Asteraceae family exhibited the highest species richness (21.2%). Leaves were the most commonly used plant parts (33.1%). While infusion (37.4%) and decoction (28.8%) were the most frequently reported methods, mainly for oral administration (70.1%). These plants were used to treat 15 categories of ailments. Gastrointestinal disorders were the most frequently cited (17.2%), followed by dermatological (11.8%), respiratory and urogenital diseases (10.7%) each. While these plants are used frequently, the presence of toxic plants implies strict precaution. Conclusions: These results are valuable for the advancement of phytochemical research, the conservation of ethnobotanical knowledge and the preservation of phytodiversity within this region and Algeria as a whole. Keywords: Herbal medicine, inventory, native plant, Tiaret (Algeria).
Sociodemographic determinants and Eethnobotanical patterns of medicinal plant use in pancreatic diabetes management in rural Morocco: A mixed-methods study from Dar El Gueddari
Background: This study aimed to investigate the sociodemographic determinants and ethnobotanical patterns associated with medicinal plant use for diabetes management in a rural population of Dar El Gueddari, northwestern Morocco. Methods: A mixed-methods cross-sectional design was employed using structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Multivariate Analysis to explore relationships between sociodemographic variables and ethnobotanical practices. Results: Results showed that the study population was predominantly aged 20–60 years (62.5%), female (57.5%), illiterate (52.5%), married (47.5%), and low-income (<2000 DH; 73%), with all differences being statistically significant (p < 0.05). Ten medicinal plant species were reported for diabetes management, with Ficus carica and Camellia sinensis being the most frequently cited (14% each). Leaves (47%) and seeds (32%) were the most used plant parts, while infusion was the dominant administration method (86%). Correspondence Analysis revealed structured associations between sociodemographic profiles and phytotherapeutic practices, explaining 41.47% of total inertia. Conclusions: The novelty of this study lies in its integrated epidemiological-ethnobotanical approach focusing on a rural Moroccan population with documented pancreatic diabetes, a condition rarely explored in traditional medicine research. These results underscore the need for targeted health education, standardized herbal usage guidelines, and integration of validated medicinal plants into community health strategies. Keywords: Diabetes, medicinal plants, sociodemographic profiles, phytotherapeutic practices, Morocco.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mounia Mezouara, Yassine Mouniane , Hajar Afqir, Youssef Aboussaleh , Driss Hmouni
Diversity assessment and ethnobotanical evaluation of the family Araceae Juss.: A quantitative ethnobotanical investigation on medicinal application and cultural practices of Aroids in the eastern Indian State of Odisha
Background: Aroids are members of the Araceae family, well known for their food, cultural, ornamental and ecological significance. The present study provides a comprehensive database regarding the diversity and ethnobotanical importance of Aroids in the Eastern Indian state of Odisha. Methods: Ethnobotanical information was collected through semi-structured interviews and standard questionnaires with 51 potential informants, based on which quantitative indices were calculated. Results: A total of 41 species of Aroids under 28 genera were documented, among which 30 species are herbs. This study highlighted that both the underground and aerial parts of Aroids contain multipurpose utilities. Aroids are primarily used in food, fodder, medicine (for humans & livestock), ornamentation, rituals, cultural and decoration purposes. Apart from that, Quantitative ethnobotanical values such as Use value (UV) range from 0.18 to 0.96 and Relative frequency of citation (RFC) value from 0.1 to 0.88. Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott shows both high UV and RFC values. The Family use value (FUV) of Araceae is 0.39, whereas it is 0.62 when considering the Aroids used as food. Similarly, plant part value (PPV) suggests that leaves and underground parts possess high PPV in 2 and 3 species, respectively. Alocasia macrorrhizos (L.) G.Don, with a score of 21 and human medicinal purpose use with a score of 36, secured the principal rank among plant and different use categories based on Direct matrix ranking (DMR). Jaccard similarity index (J) value ranges from 4.92 to 37.42 and suggests that the findings of the present study are more similar to the study conducted in Andhra Pradesh. Conclusion: The findings of the present study contribute to a better understanding of the Aroid flora of Odisha and highlight the importance of the Arum family in sustaining livelihoods. These data will be helpful for species protection and habitat conservation. Further studies regarding scientific validation of obtained traditional knowledge by screening of bioactive compounds and detection of the pharmacological potency are necessary to bridge ancient community practice with evidence-based science. Keywords: Araceae, Aroids, Conservation, Diversity, Eastern Ghats, Ethnobotany, Food security, Odisha, India
Copyright (c) 2026 Keshari Prasad Mohanty , Ranindra Kumar Nayak
Ecological aspects, introduction, comparative anatomical and ethnobotanical assessment of two species of the genus Artemisia L.
Background: Species of the genus Artemisia L. are of considerable ethnobotanical, medicinal, and ecological importance in the flora of Uzbekistan. Artemisia dracunculus L. and Artemisia vulgaris L. are widely used in traditional medicine and are of interest for studying their distribution, adaptive potential, and structural characteristics under introduction conditions. The aim of the present study was to assess the ethnobotanical significance, ecological status, spatial distribution patterns, introduction performance, and leaf anatomical structure of two medicinal species of the genus Artemisia in the flora of Uzbekistan. Methods: The study included an analysis of published ethnobotanical data, herbarium materials from the National Herbarium of Uzbekistan (TASH), field observations, and GIS-based mapping of the distribution of A. dracunculus and A. vulgaris. Spatial analysis was performed using ArcGIS 10.6.1, Google Earth, and SAS Planet. To assess altitudinal distribution, occurrence points were compared with a digital elevation model. Introduction observations were carried out under the conditions of the Tashkent Botanical Garden named after F.N. Rusanov. The anatomical structure of the leaves was studied on transverse sections taken from the middle part of the leaf blade, stained with methylene blue, and mounted in glycerol-gelatin. Quantitative anatomical parameters were statistically processed based on 30 measurements for each trait. Results: GIS analysis revealed pronounced ecogeographical differentiation between the two species. A. dracunculus is characterized by a broad ecological amplitude and occurs within an altitudinal range of 500–2500 m a.s.l., covering both the mountainous regions of the Western Tien Shan, Western Hissar, Hissar-Darvaz, and Fergana-Alay, as well as the arid territories of Ustyurt and Kyzylkum. A. vulgaris has a more restricted distribution, mainly within 400–1800 m a.s.l., and is associated with mesophilic foothill areas, anthropogenically disturbed habitats, and synanthropic oases. Ethnobotanical data confirm the use of A. dracunculus for inflammatory diseases, bruises, rheumatism, and sciatica, whereas A. vulgaris is used as an antipyretic, antiseptic, tonic, sedative, and anti-inflammatory agent. Under introduction conditions, A. dracunculus showed high seed germination, good survival, and active vegetative growth. A. vulgaris has been maintained for more than 30 years in the medicinal plant collection of the Tashkent Botanical Garden, where it flowers and fruits annually and regenerates by self-seeding. The anatomical study revealed common leaf features in both species, including dorsiventral mesophyll, amphistomatic leaves, collateral vascular bundles, and the presence of T-shaped non-glandular trichomes. Species-specific features of A. dracunculus include two-layered palisade parenchyma, 5–6-layered spongy tissue, the presence of secretory ducts, and essential oils in the mesophyll. A. vulgaris is characterized by one-layered palisade parenchyma, 2–3-layered spongy tissue, the presence of subepidermal collenchyma and bast fibers, and the absence of distinct secretory ducts in the leaf. Conclusions: obtained data show that A. dracunculus is an ecologically plastic species with a broad altitudinal and geographical amplitude, whereas A. vulgaris exhibits more pronounced ecological specialization and dependence on mesophilic and anthropogenically transformed habitats. The successful introduction of both species under the conditions of the Tashkent Botanical Garden confirms their adaptive potential and their prospects for conservation, further study, and sustainable use. The identified anatomical traits may be used for species diagnosis, assessment of adaptive strategies, and expansion of knowledge on the structural organization of medicinal plants of the genus Artemisia. Keywords: Artemisia dracunculus, Artemisia vulgaris, ethnobotany, medicinal plants, GIS mapping, introduction, leaf anatomy, ecological plasticity, Uzbekistan.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dilovar T. Khamraeva, Tashkhanim Rakhimova, Nodira K. Rakhimova, Dilarom M. Tajetdinova, Rainer W. Bussmann
Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used in the management of hypertension and diabetes in the Meknes Province (Morocco)
Background: Diabetes mellitus and hypertension are major chronic diseases, and traditional phytotherapy remains widely used in Morocco for their management. This study aimed to document and analyze medicinal plants used in traditional medicine for the treatment of diabetes and hypertension in the Meknes province. Methods: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted in the Meknes province (Morocco) between April 2024 and June 2025 using semi-structured interviews with 512 informants from both urban and rural areas. Data were analyzed using quantitative indices, including Fidelity Level (FL), Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), Family Importance Value (FIV), Value of Plant Part (VPP), Criterion of Part Used (CPU), and Criterion of Preparation (CP). Statistical analyses were performed to assess factors influencing the perceived effectiveness of phytotherapy. Results: A total of 18 plant species belonging to 11 families were identified, including five species also used for hypertension. The most cited species were Eucalyptus spp. (RFC = 0.14), Trigonella foenum-graecum L. (RFC = 0.12), Aloe vera (L.) Burm.f. (RFC = 0.11), and Olea europaea L. var. sativa (RFC = 0,10). The most represented families were Lamiaceae, Apiaceae, and Asteraceae. Leaves were the most frequently used plant part (45%; VPP = 0.423), while decoction was the dominant preparation method (40%), followed by infusion and powder (22%). The principal component analysis (PCA) explained 85.08% of the total variance (F1 = 60.03%, F2 = 25.04%) and revealed a clear differentiation between highly cited species and those with lower ethnobotanical importance, as well as variations in the diversity of their therapeutic uses. Statistical analysis revealed that socio-economic status, age, and disease duration significantly influenced therapeutic outcomes (p < 0.05), whereas gender showed no significant effect. Conclusions: The findings highlight the richness of ethnobotanical knowledge and the continued reliance on medicinal plants for the management of diabetes and hypertension in the Meknes province. These results support the potential of these species as sources of bioactive compounds, while emphasizing the need for further pharmacological and toxicological validation to ensure their safe and effective use. Keywords: Medicinal plants, Phytotherapy, Diabetes mellitus, Hypertension, Ethnobotanical survey, Meknes.
Copyright (c) 2026 ilyass LKHALIDI , Issam Ghabbour, Yassine El Ouardy, Ikram Kenfaoui , Nabil Ghabbour, Aimad Allali, Moulay Laarbi Ouahidi
Medicinal plants used for peptic ulcer disease by traditional health practitioners in the Vhembe District Municipality, South Africa
Background: Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) remains a major health burden, particularly in resource-limited settings where traditional medicines continue to play an important role. This study documented and quantitatively evaluated medicinal plants used by Traditional Health Practitioners (THPs) for PUD treatment in the Vhembe District Municipality (VDM), Limpopo Province, South Africa, and assessed variation in plant use across municipalities. Methods: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted from February to March 2026 among 60 THPs selected through snowball sampling. Semi-structured interviews captured information on diagnosis, medicinal plants used, harvested parts, and preparation methods. Ethnobotanical indices, including ethnobotanicity index (EI), informant consensus factor (ICF), use value index (UVI), and relative frequency of citation (RFC), were calculated. A chi-square test assessed differences in plant use among municipalities (p ≤ 0.05). Results: A total of 27 species from 20 families were recorded, with Fabaceae, Asteraceae, Combretaceae, and Rhamnaceae as the most represented families. Remedies were primarily prepared as decoctions or infusions from roots and bark, consistent with commonly reported ethnomedicinal practices for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders in the region. Most species (75%) were used singly; however, half of the THPs also prepared multi‑plant remedies. While 21 species were listed as Least Concern, the dominance of destructive harvesting methods highlights sustainability risks. Culturally salient species included Annona senegalensis Pers., Schkuhria pinnata (Lam.) Kuntze ex Thell., Peltophorum africanum Sond., Sclerocarya birrea (A.Rich.) Hochst. and Cissampelos torulosa E.Mey. ex Harv. A low EI (3.47%) and high ICF (0.827) indicated a focused pharmacopoeia with strong practitioner agreement. No significant differences in plant use were observed across municipalities based on the chi‑Square test (p ≤ 0.05), suggesting shared district‑wide therapeutic knowledge. Conclusions: Peptic ulcer disease treatment in the VDM relies on a cohesive set of medicinal plants supported by high cultural consensus. Although most species are not currently threatened, reliance on roots and bark underscores the need for sustainable harvesting practices. Keywords: Ethnobotany; Peptic ulcer disease; Medicinal plants, Traditional health practitioners
Copyright (c) 2026 Mulalo Lutombo, Martin Potgieter, Malehu Mathibela
How illness categories shape medicinal plant selection in the Zagros Mountains of western iran: A biocultural perspective on traditional ecological knowledge and ethno-pharmacological evidence
Background: Medicinal plant use in the Zagros Mountains of western Iran is closely linked to local understandings of illness, healing, and the environment. Although Ilam Province has been extensively documented floristically, limited attention has been paid to the cultural concepts and ecological knowledge that guide medicinal plant selection and therapeutic decision-making. This study investigated the relationships among emic illness categories, traditional ecological knowledge (TEK), and medicinal plant use in Ilam Province, Iran. Methods: Between January 2024 and May 2026, ethnobotanical fieldwork was conducted in rural and peri-urban communities across Ilam Province using semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with 78 knowledgeable informants, including traditional healers and experienced herbal practitioners. A total of 912 use-reports were documented. Emic illness terms were recorded in Lori and Kurdish and analyzed as the primary framework for interpreting therapeutic practices. Eighteen culturally salient medicinal species were selected for detailed phytochemical and pharmacological assessment. To contextualize field observations, a structured literature review guided by PRISMA 2020 principles was undertaken, resulting in the inclusion of 79 relevant publications. Results: Medicinal plant use was organized around locally recognized illness categories rather than biomedical disease classifications. Gastrointestinal disorders constituted the most important therapeutic domain, with Soozesh-e Mede (stomach burning) accounting for 37.5% of all recorded use-reports. Strong agreement among informants was observed for several illness categories, particularly those associated with digestive, respiratory, wound-healing, and nervous system conditions. Evaluation of the 18 culturally salient species revealed broad agreement between traditional therapeutic applications and published pharmacological evidence. Patterns of medicinal plant selection were further influenced by floristic distribution, habitat availability, and locally transmitted ecological knowledge related to plant collection, preparation, and use. Conclusions: The findings show that medicinal plant use in Ilam Province is shaped by culturally defined illness concepts and practical ecological knowledge accumulated through experience. The observed agreement between local therapeutic applications and published pharmacological evidence indicates that many commonly used remedies warrant further investigation. At the same time, the continued erosion of traditional knowledge highlights the need to document and preserve local medical traditions in the Zagros region. Keywords: Cultural salience; Knowledge transmission; Medicinal flora; Pharmacological validation; Traditional healing.
Ethnobotanical documentation and quantitative analysis of medicinal plants used to treat rheumatic disorders in the central Algerian steppe
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
Copyright (c) 2026 Noureddine Merniz, Radhouane Benmehaia, Amine M. Benmehaia
Integrated survey of crop diseases and pest management practices in the Beni Mellal-Khenifra region, Morocco
Background: To promote natural alternatives that could help reduce excessive pesticide use, an ethnobotanical survey was conducted to better understand and document the traditional uses of plant extracts for managing phytopathogenic diseases among farmers in the Beni Mellal-Khenifra region. Methods: A total of 150 farmers were interviewed from five rural communes in the Beni Mellal-Khenifra region about their knowledge and use of plant extract for crop protection and their pesticide-use practices. The quantitative data were analysed using appropriate statistical tests. A correspondence analysis (CA) was performed to determine the relationships between respondents’ treatment practices for crop pests and diseases and the studied parameters. Results: The survey revealed that 90.67% of the farmers used pesticides to control phytosanitary problems. These products included 61.11% insecticides, 33.33% herbicides, and 5.55% fungicides. Moreover, 2% of the farmers relied exclusively on plant extracts, mainly from Urtica dioica L., Capsicum annuum L., and Allium sativum L., to manage diseases, particularly those affecting citrus crops. These extracts were used alone, in combination with other plant extracts, or together with chemical pesticides, with farmers reporting that the combined use improved treatment effectiveness. Farmers also reported a reduction in disease symptoms following the use of plant-based extracts. Conclusions: The survey highlights the predominance of chemical pesticide use in the region, while revealing a limited adoption of plant-based pest control methods. Nevertheless, the use of plant-based extracts may contribute to more sustainable crop protection strategies in the future. However, their use as natural complementary alternatives for sustainable pest management requires further investigation. Keywords: Ethnobotanical survey, plant extracts, disease symptoms, Beni Mellal-Khenifra region.
Copyright (c) 2026 Siham Tounssi, Ilham Zahir, Fatima-Ezzahra Saouab, Noureddine Hamamouch
Preserving indigenous wisdom: An ethnomedicinal survey and quantitative analysis of the medicinal flora in Thattagarai and Oosimalai
Background: Medicinal plants are the most important source for our medical systems. Due to the modernization of theworld, the knowledge of indigenous medicinal plants was disappearing. The main objective of this study focuses on identifying and recording the medicinal plants used by the indigenous tribal communities living in the Thattagarai and Oosimalair egions of Erode. Methods: This ethnobotanical survey carried a total of a total 78 informants, and traditional healers were interviewed; a result of 49 medicinal plant species belonging to 33 families are reported. Results: Overall, Fabaceae (10.20%) was the dominant family, followed by Combretaceae (8.16%), Solanaceae, and Euphorbiaceae (6.12%). Life form analysis shows trees (40.82%), followed by herbs (28.57%), shrubs (18.37%), and climbers (12.24%). The Use Value (UV) and Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) results range from0.04 to 0.87, with several plants, such as Terminalia chebula, Mimosa pudica, Butea monosperma, Hemidesmus indicus, and Withania somnifera. The Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) values ranged from 0.94 to 1.00. High ICF values were indicated for skin diseases, wounds, joint pain, diabetes, immunity boosting, digestive disorders, and snake bites. Conclusion: This research concluded with the documentation of ethnomedicinal knowledge, which conserves the natural biodiversity and transformation of knowledge through roots. Keywords: Medicinal plants, ethnobotanical survey, documentation, Use Value, and Relative Frequency of Citation.
Useful hedgerow plants in Surrey: knowledge, uses and wellbeing benefits
Background: Hedgerows are a valuable feature of the British countryside and the produce from them has been used by humans for centuries. Useful hedgerow plants (UHP) are still used for food, fuel, craft and medicine, and since the Covid 19 pandemic, interest in foraging and wild edible plants (WEP) has grown, yet there is a lack of research about the cultural relationship between people and hedges. This study looked at what the Surrey public know about hedgerow plants and what wellbeing impact this knowledge offers. Methods: Utilizing a mixed methodology centered on ethnobotany and social sciences, the research studied quantitative and qualitative data to explore the importance of hedgerows to the public. An online questionnaire and face-to-face interviews were conducted with participants from across Surrey and the results analyzed using R. Results: Participants cited 107 species with 274 unique uses recorded. Both current and childhood residence had an impact on knowledge and usage; specifically, a rural childhood was a major factor in plant knowledge with over 80% of participants gaining knowledge in childhood. Reasons why UHP are important to the public were explored and various kinds of wellbeing, including connection to nature and community, mental health benefits, and enjoyment, are linked to knowledge of UHP. Conclusions: There is a wide diversity of knowledge of UHP across Surrey and this knowledge, and resulting usage, can have a positive impact on both users and hedgerow health and conservation. Knowledge acquisition typically happens in childhood and resulting policy implications are suggested. Keywords: Useful Plants, Hedgerows, Wellbeing, Connection to Nature, Wild Edible Plants, Ethnobotany, Foraging.
Copyright (c) 2026 Anna Lewis, William Milliken , Philippa Ryan
Selective erosion of pharmacopeial knowledge: a two-millennium diachronic analysis of Prunus dulcis (Mill.) D.A. Webb in Northeastern Morocco
Background: The persistence of ethnobotanical knowledge is a selective cultural process shaped by population needs, ecological factors, and modernisation. Quantitative diachronic analyses integrating historical written sources with contemporary field data remain rare for single-taxon studies in the Mediterranean region. Methods: This study reconstructs the two-millennium transmission trajectory of Prunus dulcis (Mill.) D.A. Webb across four sources: Dioscorides (De Materia Medica, 1st century CE), Ibn Sina (Canon of Medicine, 11th century CE), Ibn Al-Baytar (Kitab al-Jami’, 13th century CE) and contemporary field data collected in Northeastern Morocco from 2017 to 2019, involving 1,177 informants. Results: A total of 148 medicinal uses were documented across 14 ICPC-2 groups. Jaccard similarity among the three historical sources was high (between 0.769 and 0.857). Ibn Sina’s absence from Ibn Al-Baytar’s citation indicates this similarity reflects parallel convergence on shared sources rather than direct transmission. Similarity between contemporary NE Morocco and historical sources was markedly lower (between 0.167 and 0.25). Preparation knowledge showed the most severe erosion (between 0.083 and 0.111); non-medicinal uses proved more resistant. Conclusions: These findings document a taxon-specific pattern of selective pharmacopeial knowledge attrition and demonstrates procedural knowledge is more vulnerable to erosion than declarative knowledge. Keywords: Diachronic analyses; Ethnobotanical knowledge, Prunus dulcis; Northeastern Morocco, Knowledge erosion
Copyright (c) 2026 Halima Smaili, Fatima-Zahra Mir, Abderrahmane Merzouki
A quantitative ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants used to treat skin disorders in Balodabazar-Bhatapara District, Chhattisgarh
Background: The present systematic and quantitative ethnobotanical survey was conducted due to the limited documentation of medicinal plants used for treating skin ailments in the Balodabazar-Bhatapara district of Chhattisgarh, India. Methods: To gather the ethnobotanical data, semi-structured open interviews were carried out with the participation of local informants who represented different age groups, educational levels, and traditional occupations. To determine the cultural significance and therapeutic relevance of documented species, they were analyzed using various quantitative indices. Results: Eighty-nine medicinal plant species of 41 families were listed to treat dermatological illness. The most common family was Fabaceae (9 species), with a second place of Combretaceae and Lamiaceae (5 species each). The commonest growth forms were trees (37.08) and herbs (30.34). The most common plant part that was used was the leaves (27.91%), then the bark (15.70%), and the roots (13.95%). The most prevalent ways of preparation were paste (46.48) and poultice (15.49), but the most significant means of administration was topical application (93.66). The most common treated wound-related conditions (54 species) were treated along with infectious, inflammatory, and immune-related skin diseases. The most common species with the highest UV (0.05), RFC (0.03), and FL (100 percent) were five, sixteen, and seven species, respectively. The FIV was highest in Zingiberaceae (10.50%). Conclusion: The results indicate that there is an experience-based, organized traditional dermatological healthcare system. Although high informant consensus has been endorsing these applications, more phytochemical, pharmacological, and toxicological validation is yet to be done. Keywords: Ethnobotany; Medicinal Plant; Skin Disorder; Local people; Traditional Medicine.
Copyright (c) 2026 Shobhana Koshle, Deepa Biswas
the Integrating indigenous women knowledge into mangrove management - the Tonotwiyat system in Papua, Indonesia
Background: Effective mangrove management requires the integration of local ecological knowledge, customary institutions, and gender equity. This study examines Tonotwiyat-Women's Forest in Youtefa Bay, Papua, Indonesia, as a model of mangrove governance based on indigenous women's knowledge. Methods: The methods used included a literature review, social-ecological systems (SES) surveys, in-depth interviews, observations, participatory mapping, and focus group discussions. A total of 62 purposively selected respondents participated in the study. The primary respondents were women whose activities were directly related to the mangrove. Additional participants included customary stakeholders, policymakers, village governments, and experts/NGOs. Data were analyzed using the SES framework and institutional analysis based on a common-pool resources (CPR) approach. Results: The Tonotwiyat-Women's Forest System is a form of local knowledge and wisdom that is a form of gender-based biocultural governance of mangrove forests (mangrove ecosystems), where indigenous women's knowledge serves as an institutional foundation for conservation and collaborative management This model can inform gender-responsive mangrove co-management policies in other coastal areas facing mangrove management challenges with adjustments to local contexts. Conclusions: Tonotwiyat-Women's Forest shows that formally integrating indigenous women’s knowledge, customary access rights, participatory mapping, and community monitoring can strengthen gender-responsive mangrove co-management and inform coastal policy beyond Youtefa Bay. This model can inform gender-responsive mangrove co-management policies in other coastal areas facing mangrove management challenges with adjustments to local contexts. Keywords: Tonotwiyat; Women's Forest; local knowledge; local wisdom; mangrove; coastal ethnobotany; social-ecological system; Papua
Copyright (c) 2026 Yunus Pajanjan Paulangan, Triyanto, Arsyad Al Amin M, Ervina Indrayani, Khristhoper A.A. Manalu, Erlani Febrida Rahareng, Fitra Yunia Ramba, Muhammad Hisyam
Beyond the pharmacopoeiae: the Ethnobotany of everything else
Ask a community elder about a single common plant and listen to the whole answer. The bark tans a hide, and the inner fiber becomes a rope; the young shoots are famine food and the mature stem a tool handle; the flowering marks a season, the ash seasons a dish, wood-smoke keeps insects from the house, a cut branch marks a grave. Somewhere in that answer, perhaps, there is also a remedy for a cough. Now open almost any ethnobotanical journal, this one included, and look at what survives the journey from field to page: the cough remedy, with its use-value index, and little else. We have built a rich discipline around a single thread of a much larger weave. This editorial makes the case for recording the whole cloth.
Copyright (c) 2026 Cheikh Yebouk, Maroof Ali
Notes on the harvest of Cryptocoryne spiralis rhizomes in South Tamil Nadu
Background: Cryptocoryne spiralis (Retz.) Fisch. ex Wydler, is a helophytic genus of Araceae; its rhizomes have traditionally been used in Southern India as a substitute for Indian Atees (Ativisha), a valued crude drug of Indian medicine. This study documents the harvesting practices of C. spiralis rhizomes from the wild in the Tirunelveli district, Tamil Nadu, India. Methods: Field surveys were conducted between February and May, 2025, and information was recorded from local people involved in the collection of C. spiralis. Results: The collectors usually harvest the rhizomes during summer; one group that comprises about 7-10 persons can collect about 75 kg of dried material per season. The produce was marketed to the local mandis, through the middlemen. The collectors received a daily wage of around ₹300 (≈3.15 USD) per person. According to the market trend of May 2025, the cost of dried C. spiralis rhizome was around ₹2,500 (≈26 USD) per kilogram; this cost was about 40% lower than that of A. heterophyllum rhizomes. Increasing demand had led to overharvesting and a reduction in the natural regeneration of the rhizomes. Conclusion: The study underscores the need for systematic assessments on the local uses, trade, ecological impact, cultivation strategies, and conservation measures to ensure the sustainable utilisation of C. spiralis. Keywords: Ayurveda; Aconitum heterophyllum; Ativisha; Nattu Athividayam; Siddha
Copyright (c) 2026 Velaiah Chelladurai, Perumal Pandikumar, S Ignacimuthu
Ethnomedicinal use and pharmacological potential of Punica granatum L. in Uzbekistan
Background: This study synthesizes ethnobotanical knowledge on the economically valuable species Punica granatum and emphasizes its potential applications in natural pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals. Methods: The assessment of the distribution ranges of Punica granatum was carried out using the route-reconnaissance method widely applied in resource surveys. Field observations were conducted across all mountain regions of the Surkhandarya Province of Uzbekistan. Ethnobotanical data were collected through questionnaire surveys conducted during interviews with the local population. The survey was carried out with the informed consent of the respondents. The interviews were conducted in accordance with the International Society of Ethnobiology Code of Ethics (ISE Code of Ethics, 2006). Results: Punica granatum is widely recognized for its ethnomedicinal applications. Its juice supports immune function, alleviates sore throat, regulates blood pressure, and provides cardioprotective effects. Dried peel, seeds, and seed membranes are used to treat gastrointestinal disorders, skin injuries, headaches, and nervous tension. These traditional uses underscore the potential of P. granatum for the development of natural medicines and nutraceuticals. Conclusions: Ethnobotanical studies focused on the investigation of the valuable food and medicinal plant Punica granatum L. in its natural habitats in the mountainous regions of the Surkhandarya Province of Uzbekistan have shown that wild-growing forms, which are closely related to cultivated pomegranate, served as the primary source material for the development of numerous cultivated varieties differing in their organoleptic properties. In addition, various plant parts of pomegranate are widely used in traditional medicine, cosmetology, textile dyeing, and other applied fields. Keywords: Punica granatum, pomegranate, wild relatives, ethnobotany, Red data book, Uzbekistan.
Copyright (c) 2026 Olim K. Khojimatov, Alisher N. Khujanov, Rainer W Bussmann, Nilufar Z. Mamadalieva, Abdunazar E. Sharipov
Exploring the ethnomedicinal potential of the wetland flora in Jajpur district, Odisha, Eastern India
Background: Wetlands are highly productive ecosystems that provide essential ecological services and sustain diverse flora and fauna. In Odisha, India, wetland plants play a vital role in traditional healthcare, particularly among rural and indigenous communities. Despite their ecological and cultural importance, systematic documentation of the ethnomedicinal uses of wetland flora in Jajpur district has been limited. This study addresses that gap by integrating traditional knowledge with quantitative ethnobotanical analysis to evaluate the cultural significance and therapeutic potential of wetland plants. Methods: Field surveys were conducted across diverse wetland habitats of Jajpur district between 2023 and 2025. Plant specimens were collected, identified, and preserved following standard herbarium techniques. Ethnomedicinal data were obtained from 239 informants, including traditional healers, farmers, and elderly community members, using semi-structured interviews, free listing, and guided field walks. Quantitative ethnobotanical indices such as Frequency of Citation (FC), Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), and Use Value (UV) were applied to assess cultural importance and consensus among informants. Results: A total of 45 ethnomedicinal plant species belonging to 32 families were documented, with Cynodon dactylon, Bacopa monnieri, Boerhavia diffusa, Centella asiatica, and Tridax procumbens emerging as culturally dominant and therapeutically versatile. Leaves were the most frequently used plant part, and remedies were prepared in the form of juices, pastes, and decoctions to treat common ailments such as fever, gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory complaints, and skin infections. Conclusions: The findings highlight wetlands as vital repositories of traditional medicine and emphasize the need for conservation and ecological monitoring. Keywords: Ethnomedicine; Wetlands; FC; RFC; Jajpur
Copyright (c) 2026 Satikanta Sahoo, Dayanidhi Bagartee, Taranisen Panda