Ethnobotany Research and Applications

A review of Métis traditional medicines in wound care with a focus on white spruce (Picea glauca), yarrow (Achillea millefolium), and broadleaf plantain (Plantago major) in Canada

Amy Lefebvre — 2026-02-14

Background: Skin injuries have been documented across the globe for centuries and are a common health concern worldwide. Although many methods have evolved to heal lacerations, traditional Métis medicines have remained underexplored in literature. This review aims to provide an overview of the common plants used by the Métis in wound care. Due to their consistent documentation across Métis oral histories and proximity to Métis homelands, white spruce (Picea glauca), yarrow (Achillea millefolium), and broadleaf plantain (Plantago major) offer insight into the applications of Métis medicines.

Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted using academic databases to identify primary and secondary sources on Métis traditional medicines and their wound care applications. Both ethnobotanical and biomedical studies were included to capture cultural and pharmacological perspectives.

Results: In P. glauca, the lignan 7-hydroxymatairesinol demonstrates anti-inflammatory properties that may support wound healing. A. millefolium contains natural antioxidants and linoleic acid that can reduce infection risk and help restore skin elasticity in later healing stages. P. major contains aucubin and allantoin, compounds associated with accelerated cellular regeneration. Studies suggest that integrating these traditional medicines into modern wound dressings may help reduce complications and improve healing outcomes.

Conclusion: This review highlights the therapeutic potential of Métis medicines in wound care. Future research should include collaboration with Métis knowledge holders and clinical studies to validate efficacy, determine safe dosages, and explore culturally respectful integration into modern biomedical practice.

Keywords: Wound care, Métis, traditional medicine, spruce, yarrow, plantain, Canada

From traditional remedy to modern medicine: Review of the genus Euphorbia

Abdulrahman Mahmoud Dogara — 2026-01-31

Background: Plants have been used in human medicine since ancient times. Natural products continue to play a crucial role in the drug discovery process. Genus Euphorbia is widely known for its therapeutic properties all over the world. We aim to update traditional medicinal uses, chemical composition, pharmacological activities and clinical trial of Genus Euphorbia.

Methods: Data pertinent to the genus Euphorbia and its distinctive compounds were obtained from globally recognized scientific databases and esteemed publications via online platforms, including Web of Science, PubMed, MDPI, Springer Nature, Wiley Online Library, and Elsevier. The inquiry utilized the term “Euphorbia” alongside the following terms: “phenolic compounds,” “flavonoids,” “terpenoids,” “alkaloids,” “phenylpropanoids.

Results: Traditionally, the genus is used to treat skin diseases, cancer, diabetes, hypoglycemia, healing wounds, toothache. Four hundred and two compounds (402) were identified across the genus with dominant diterpenoids, triterpenoids, flavonoids and phenols. Compounds were found to be active against cancer cells, viruses, microbes and inflammation. Clinical trial show members of the genus to be effective against hemorrhoids, varicose veins, human nonmelanoma skin cancers, dengue and cracked feet.

Conclusions: The genus Euphorbia is a highly potential avenue of pharmacognostic research and drug discovery based on secondary metabolites. It has a vast chemical repertoire of various terpenoid compositions, which provides a good source of chemically diverse and clinically important compounds. It is also essential to conduct structure-activity relationship studies to determine the molecular characteristics that endow activity and to provide a means of rationally developing new derivatives.

Keywords: Compound, Euphorbia, Clinical trial, Plants

Ethnobotany in Morocco from 1990 to 2023: Part I - A critical analysis of researchers’ contributions, bibliometric, methodological attributes, and the socio-demographic characteristics of the surveyed population

Khadija Benamar — 2026-01-31

Background: Medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) have traditionally been used in Morocco’s folk medicine, reflecting the strong cultural and biodiversity background of this country. The present work aims to analyze ethnobotanical research that has been carried out about MAPs use in traditional medicine in Morocco since 1990, with a particular emphasis regarding the scope, methods and data quality.

Methods: A bibliometric and methodological analysis was performed regarding ethnobotanical studies published between 1990 and 2023. Data were gathered from various scientific databases, and analyzed descriptively for publication trends, authorship, institutional contributions, study methods and surveyed populations. International collaboration was analyzed using VOSviewer (v.1.6.20), generating a full-counting country co-authorship network with modularity-based clustering. To perform the networking institutional collaborations map we used the open-source Geographical Information System software QGIS 3.38.2

Results: Ethnobotanical studies conducted in Morocco are characterized by an increase since 2018 and are predominantly undertaken by Moroccan researchers and institutions. Surveys using interviews and questionnaires (69 %) prevail over reviews. Most publications are in English (83 %) and are concentrated in high-impact journals indexed in Scopus and ScienceDirect. However, there are gaps in the reported studies, such as duration of studies, informant demographics and statistical methods. Most informants and MAPs users are women, showing their central role in traditional knowledge transmission.

Conclusions: This review summarizes the growing interest in Moroccan ethnobotany, emphasizing methodological quality and reporting deficiencies. The findings encourage improved rigor and standardized data reporting to support ethnopharmacological development.

Keywords: Ethnobotany; Moroccan Traditional medicine; Knowledge transmission

Systematic review of useful plants in the Colombian Orinoquia: A quantitative synthesis for biocultural management

Edna Arévalo Marín — 2026-02-04

Background: The Colombian Orinoquia is largely composed of a mosaic of savannas determined by drainage conditions, where useful plants underpin food, health, materials, and livelihoods. Yet information is scattered and uneven across places and cultures, limiting evidence-based biocultural management. A standardized baseline is needed to describe species–use patterns and remaining gaps.

Methods: We followed PRISMA, harmonized published records, verified taxonomy, and compiled incidence matrices (studies × species; studies × categories). Diversity was estimated with coverage-based rarefaction/extrapolation (iNEXT, q=0). Redundancy was summarized with Hill numbers (q=1) and network structure with H2′, nestedness, and modularity. Relative Importance combined citation frequency and use versatility.

Results: We included 44 studies. Species coverage was low (SC=0.574), with extrapolated richness ≈769 species (95% CI 674–863), while the 12 major categories appeared saturated. The dataset comprised 1,119 study–species–category records for 502 species in 92 families; Fabaceae and Arecaceae were most speciose. Records and species concentrated in Construction, Edible, Medicinal, Ornamental, and Handicrafts. Redundancy and evenness were high in most categories (e.g., Construction Reff=155.3; Ornamental 126.9). Network indices indicated low-to-moderate specialization and moderate compartmentalization (H2′=0.321; NODF=22.9; Q=0.470). High-RI taxa were dominated by palms, led by Mauritia flexuosa and Oenocarpus bataua.

Conclusions: Major use categories are already represented, but incomplete species coverage and a right-skewed versatility distribution indicate many underreported taxa. High redundancy in leading categories and a moderately modular network suggest functional insurance in local practices. Priorities include standardized locality-specific surveys to raise coverage and targeted management of high-RI palms and context-relevant mid-rank species.

Keywords: Llanos Orientales; Ethnobotany; Savannas.

Ethnobotany in Morocco from 1990 to 2023: Part II- Analysis of Floristic Diversity, Conservation Status and treated diseases

Khadija Bemanar — 2026-01-31

Background: The medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) have been used in Moroccan traditional medicine. This review aims to make a synthesis of floristic data from ethnobotanical studies conducted between 1990 and 2023, in order to highlight plant diversity, use pattern, and conservation status.

Methods: A total of 1427 plant species were cited across 230 ethnobotanical studies. The relative frequency of citation (RFC) index was calculated as an indicator of cultural importance. Phylogenetic relationships between the species that were commonly reported to possess antidiabetic potential were generated by MEGA X software through the Neighbor-Joining method. The IUCN status of the plants and native origin of plants were also assessed.

Results: The most frequently cited botanical families were Lamiaceae, Asteraceae, Apiaceae, Fabaceae and Rosaceae, whereas Marrubium vulgare L., Mentha pulegium L., Rosmarinus officinalis L., Artemisia herba-alba Asso and Olea europaea L., were the most cited species. Native plants represented 65.53% of reported species, largely characterized as Least Concern (42.89%). The commonest treated diseases were diabetes, bronchopulmonary, and gastrointestinal diseases. Phylogenetic analysis revealed clustering of key antidiabetic species, suggesting potential links between evolutionary relationships and therapeutic properties.

Conclusions: The ethnobotanical knowledge in Morocco is floristically rich, culturally varied and therapeutically important. The identification of most cited species and their conservation status can provide a reference for sustainable use, drug discovery, and traditional knowledge preservation.

Keywords: Ethnobotanical review; medicinal plants; Morocco; plant citation index; phylogenetic analysis; IUCN conservation.

Ethnobotanical uses of Plantaginaceae taxa in Türkiye

Şule Doğan — 2026-03-06

Background: The Plantaginaceae family comprises several genera with long-standing ethnobotanical relevance in Türkiye, particularly Plantago, Veronica, Digitalis., Linaria, Antirrhinum, and Globularia. This study synthesizes ethnobotanical data derived from theses, regional surveys, and peer-reviewed studies conducted across different phytogeographical regions of Türkiye.

Methods: The key databases used were PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Scopus, and ScienceDirect. A list of precise keywords was used to improve the literature search process. The keywords included "Plantaginaceae," "traditional medicinal plants," "herbal medicine," "folk medicine," "ethnomedicine," "ethnobotany," "ethnopharmacology," and the geographical phrases "Turkey" and "Türkiye." Published sources from 1990 to 2026 were analyzed.

Results: A total of 144 Use Reports (URs) across 22 taxa belonging to Plantaginaceae are documented including medicinal, food, veterinary, ornamental, and other traditional uses. Medicinal applications dominate the recorded uses, primarily targeting dermatological conditions, gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory ailments, inflammatory diseases, and metabolic disorders. Leaves and aerial parts are the most frequently utilized plant organs, and infusion, decoction, and poultice represent the dominant preparation methods. The prominence of Plantago species, particularly Plantago major, P. lanceolata, highlights their cultural and therapeutic importance in Turkish folk medicine.

Conclusions: This review provides a comprehensive framework for understanding traditional knowledge patterns within the Plantaginaceae family in Türkiye and underscores their potential for future pharmacological, conservation, and sustainable-use studies.

Keywords: Plantaginaceae; Traditional Medicinal Plants; Ethnobotany; Anatolia; Türkiye

Ethnobotany, phytochemistry, and pharmacology of Fritillaria cirrhosa D. Don: A bibliometric analysis of an alpine medicinal herb

Meera Rai — 2026-01-06

Background: Fritillaria cirrhosa D. Don is a high-value alpine medicinal herb endemic to the Himalayan region, valued in traditional Asian medicine for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and respiratory benefits. Its bulbs command high market prices, leading to unsustainable harvesting, ecological threats, and endangered status (IUCN Vulnerable). Despite its ethnobotanical, phytochemical, and pharmacological significance, research trends and gaps remain underexplored, necessitating a bibliometric analysis to map scientific output, collaborations, and future directions for conservation and sustainable use.

Methods: This bibliometric study analyzed publications on F. cirrhosa from 1939 to June 2025, retrieved from the SCOPUS database using search strings targeting "Fritillaria cirrhosa" and synonyms like "Fritillaria roylei." Data were processed with VOSviewer for network visualization (co-authorship, co-occurrence) and R Studio (Bibliometrix) for trends, citations, and thematic mapping.

Results: A total of 128 documents were analyzed, revealing China's dominance (89 documents, 1538 citations), followed by India (24 documents, 250 citations) and Hong Kong (17 documents, 368 citations). Top institutions included Sichuan University (53 articles) and Chengdu University (51 articles), with key authors like Wang S (h-index 7, 266 citations), Li, P (h-index 6, 270 citations). Citation analysis showed recent publications gaining rapid impact, while keyword clusters emphasized traditional medicine, alkaloids, and pharmacology. However, from 2020 onwards, the publication and citation record or research output of the Fritillaria cirrhosa drastically increases, which signifies that the species globally is gaining attention among researchers.

Conclusions: This first bibliometric analysis highlights research imbalances, with negligible contributions from other Asian countries like India, Nepal, and Pakistan. Despite the rich species’ distribution in the countries, the publication and citation trends were still restricted. This would largely impact the species' global attention and scientific evidence at the international level.

Keywords: Fritillaria cirrhosa, Medicinal properties, R Studio, Forest product, NTFP, Ethnobotany.

Ethnomedicinal Asteraceae of Fez–Meknes: Therapeutic diversity, preparation practices, and Consensus-Based Knowledge

Achraf Ziani — 2026-03-01

Background: The Fez–Meknes region in Morocco possesses considerable biocultural diversity and a long-established use of herbal medicine, wherein Asteraceae species hold significant ethnopharmacological value. Although various studies have been conducted, a consolidated, quantitative report on the applications, preparations, and community consensus surrounding Asteraceae in this area is still required.

Methods: The present research documents the medicinal role of Asteraceae species in the Fez–Meknes region of Morocco. A total of ten culturally prominent taxa were identified through a systematic selection pipeline, after which FPIC-based interviews were conducted with 193 informants. Data were analyzed quantitatively using established ethnobotanical indices.

Results: The study designated Matricaria chamomilla as the prominent species (UR=225; CSI=32.00), exhibiting 16 applications across metabolic, external, respiratory, dermatological, and general health categories. Artemisia herba-alba (CSI=36.26; UR=136) and Artemisia absinthium (CSI=27.20; UR=90) also showed broad therapeutic efficacy, particularly for gastrointestinal and metabolic ailments. Informant consensus was notably high for ICPC categories 'External causes' and 'Endocrine/Metabolic' (ICF=0.96), and strong for 'Respiratory', 'General', and 'Skin' (ICF=0.93–0.95). Rank-order analysis positioned M. chamomilla (ROP=84.06) and Anacyclus pyrethrum (ROP=83.33) as key species for pharmacological validation and conservation. Reduced present-day utilization of Dittrichia viscosa and Achillea millefolium, when contrasted with prior reports, may reflect transformations in the transmission of ethnomedical knowledge and treatment preferences.

Conclusions: The results confirm the centrality of Asteraceae, highlight prioritized species, and call for the incorporation of rural and elder knowledge, together with longitudinal, ecological, and clinical approaches, to sustain biocultural resilience and ensure culturally appropriate primary healthcare.

Keywords: Ethnobotanical survey, Asteraceae, Medicinal plants, Traditional medicine, Ethnobotanical indices, Fes-Meknes region, Morocco.

Production potential and mapping of medicinal and aromatic plants in the Azilal forest (central High Atlas of Morocco)

Esnart Stephanie Sakanya — 2026-02-08

Background: In Morocco, a Mediterranean biodiversity hotspot, medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) play a key socioeconomic and cultural role, particularly in traditional healthcare and rural livelihoods. Yet, increasing anthropogenic and climatic pressures threaten their sustainability, especially in mountainous forest ecosystems where quantitative data on species distribution and productivity remain scarce.

Methods: To address this gap, a phytoecological inventory was conducted in the Azilal forest using a stratified random sampling design across nineteen plots of 400 m² each, along with aboveground phytomass assessment of dominant MAP species to assess floristic diversity and production potential.

Results: A total of 40 MAP species belonging to 22 botanical families were recorded, with Asteraceae, Fabaceae, and Lamiaceae being the most represented. Three distinct floristic facies were identified, reflecting pronounced spatial heterogeneity and areas of ecological fragility. Phytomass estimates showed substantial interspecific variability, with fresh biomass ranging from 66.84 to 998.94 kg·ha⁻¹ and dry biomass from 4.73 to 430 kg·ha⁻¹. High production potential was observed in a limited number of species, notably Chamaerops humilis L., Cistus laurifolius L.., and Asphodelus ramosus L., whereas approximately 80% of the recorded species exhibited low cover rate and limited biomass, indicating high vulnerability to disturbance and overharvesting.

Conclusions: This study provides the first quantitative and spatially explicit evaluation of MAPs diversity and productivity in the Azilal forest. The resulting phytomass estimates and ecological facies mapping provide practical tools for identifying high-potential economic zones and prioritizing conservation areas, thereby supporting adaptive management strategies that balance local development and ecosystem preservation.

Keywords: medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs), Azilal forest, non-timber forest products (NTFP), inventory, biomass production, sustainable management, conservation, Morocco

The ethnomedicinal plants of Purko, Maasai in Central Narok, Kenya

Kristin Hedges — 2026-01-23

Background: Indigenous plants are integral to the Maasai community’s healthcare throughout East Africa. This research documented traditional medicinal knowledge (TMK) among the Purko Maasai community in Kenya. While this knowledge has typically been orally transmitted, a request was made by local elders to write it down for future generations.

Methods: Using a Participatory Action Research (PAR) approach, researchers and community members collaborated with the director of Olosho Initiatives in study design, participant recruitment, and data gathering.

Results: The community identified 31 plant species. Common medicinal usage was determined through In-depth interviews and consensus analysis. From the total, there were 15 plants noted specifically for their preventative health benefits, including body strengthening and immunity enhancement.

Conclusions: Almost half of the plants documented had uses that were preventative in nature, which highlights how this traditional knowledge both endures and remains relevant

Keywords: Maasai; Ethnobotany; Traditional Medicinal Knowledge

An ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used for children’s healthcare in Centre-Est Burkina Faso

Fabiana Antognoni — 2026-01-31

Background: In Burkina Faso, a large part of population cannot afford conventional medicines, making the plant-based traditional ones essential for healthcare. Despite recent government efforts to ensure children's right to health, the under-five mortality rate remains high. The objective of this study is to establish a comprehensive database of plants commonly used by traditional healers in childhood disease management.

Methods: The survey was conducted in Centre-Est Burkina Faso between May 2019 and October 2023 using open and semi-structured interviews with 43 informants including paediatric traditional healers (22), herb vendors (15), and children’s mothers and relatives (6). Ethnobotanical data were analyzed using informant consensus factor and fidelity level (FL).

Results: The study documented 185 species from 52 plant families. High informant consensus factor (0.82-0.93) indicates a strong agreement among healers about the therapeutic use of medicinal plants, with malaria being the most frequently treated disease (111 species cited for it). Vitellaria paradoxa C.f. Gaertn emerged as the most used species with 100% FL, and Fabaceae (19.2%), Malvaceae (8.6%), Poaceae (8.3%), Rubiaceae (4.7%) and Combretaceae (4.2%) were the most represented families.

Conclusions: This ethnobotanical survey is one of the most important studies in Centre-Est Burkina Faso on medicinal plants paving the way for the management of most frequent childhood’s diseases. The findings confirm the widespread use of plants in paediatric healthcare and emphasize the key role of traditional healers, particularly women, in local communities. The survey contributes to safeguarding regional medicinal biodiversity and provides a basis for future phytochemical investigations.

Keywords: African traditional medicine, biodiversity, practitioners, pediatric healthcare, traditional healers.

Ethnobotanical knowledge and quantitative evaluation of medicinal plants in the Dahra Region, Northwestern Algeria

Houria Krelifi Otsmane — 2026-01-01

Background: This ethnobotanical investigation documents and analyzes traditional medicinal knowledge in the Dahra region of northwestern Algeria.

Methods: Data were collected from 420 informants across 11 municipalities using semi-structured interviews. Sociodemographic analysis revealed that traditional medicine remains widely practiced across educational and urban–rural boundaries, with women serving as principal custodians of household phytotherapeutic knowledge. Quantitative ethnobotanical indices, Informant Consensus Factor (ICF), Use Value (UV), Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), and Fidelity Level (FL %), were applied to assess the cultural importance and reliability of recorded species.

Results: A total of 45 medicinal plants belonging to 23 botanical families were identified. The Lamiaceae family predominated (28.9%), followed by Apiaceae (11.1%) and Asteraceae (8.9%), reflecting a preference for aromatic taxa rich in essential oils, terpenoids, and flavonoids. Leaves were the most frequently used organs (≈ 50%), while decoction and infusion were the dominant preparation methods. High ICF values for respiratory (0.87), digestive (0.83), and immunity-related (0.81) disorders. Among individual taxa, Origanum vulgare (UV = 0.51; RFC = 30.2%), Mentha spicata (UV = 0.35), and Foeniculum vulgare (UV = 0.07) emerged as cultural keystone species, illustrating both pharmacological relevance and symbolic significance. Several species exhibited perfect fidelity (FL = 100%), notably Citrullus colocynthis, Arbutus unedo, and Melissa officinalis, confirming their recognized specificity and therapeutic reliability.

Conclusions: Overall, the Dahra ethnopharmacopoeia represents a dynamic, adaptive knowledge system in which ecological adaptation, cultural continuity, and empirical efficacy converge.

Keywords: Ethnobotany; Traditional medicine; Valorization; Quantitative indices; Dahra region; Algeria

Unveiling the importance and consequences on the use of morphologically allied medicinal plants bearing ethnohomonyms: a case study with two ethnomedicinal orchids from West Bengal, India

Swarnendu Mondal — 2026-02-02

Background: The same common names are attached to different medicinal plant species, and morphological similarities in their parts used as crude drugs often lead to the substitution of herbal drugs and misidentification of the species. The present study documented a hitherto unreported ethnobotanical perspective based on the ethnohomonyms and similarities in morphology of pseudobulbs and habits in vegetative state of the two ground orchids Eulophia explanata Lindl. and E. diffusiflora M.W.Chase, Kumar & Schuit. from West Bengal, India, interpret the possible causes of their misidentification during collection from natural habitats.

Methods: Following standard methods, 35 Santal tribal key medicine men were identified in the districts Birbhum, West Barddhaman and Bankura, West Bengal who are well known to both the orchids. Visual stimuli and in-loco identification techniques have been employed to note down the local names, morphology and ethnomedicinal uses of the two plants.

Results: Etymology of folk nomenclature of the homonyms attached to these two orchids was explained along with their diverse folk medicinal uses which reveal the needs for phytochemical explorations and pharmacological validity. The crucial morphological characters of these orchid species along with photographs have provided for a better understanding elaborated in this topic.

Conclusions: Documenting ethno-taxonomical names by cross-cultural examination with different communities will be helpful for the proper identification of the plants using different modern scientific tools and to safeguard the related local herbal knowledge.

Keywords: Tribal Homonyms, Morphology, Allied Taxa, Pseudobulbs, Ethnomedicine

Desert truffles in the Maamora Forest, Morocco: local nomenclature, harvesting practices, ethnoecology, ethnophenology, and resource availability

Anas Fellaki — 2026-02-28

Background: Desert truffles are regarded as noble delicacies with multiple medicinal properties, attracting strong scientific interest worldwide. Maamora Forest, where some of them have been harvested for centuries, provides a privileged setting for studying traditional practices. Thus, this study explores these practices, along with ethnoecological and ethnophenological knowledge they encompass, as well as the threats and behaviors that may compromise sustainability.

Methods: This ethnomycological survey, conducted among 149 truffle hunters across the five Maamora Forest cantons, was based on a semi-structured questionnaire complemented by personal field observations. The specimens collected from the pickers were identified using molecular analyses. Collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s Chi-square test, Multiple Correspondence Analysis, non-metric Multidimensional Scaling, and Variance Permutational Multivariate Analysis.

Results: Results show that desert truffle harvesting is mainly practiced by elderly, unemployed individuals, particularly married women. They are often experienced and regular gatherers. Significant differences were noted across cantons regarding local nomenclature and harvesting practices. Study also highlights a deep empirical understanding of phenology. Main factors threatening sustainability of this resource are overgrazing, urbanization, drought, reforestation with exotic species, and use of pickaxes. Premature harvesting, overexploitation and poor post-harvest practices also contribute to truffle habitats degradation and substantial losses of a large part of the harvest.

Conclusions: This work constitutes the first ethnomycological assessment of desert truffles in the Maamora Forest. It enriches local ecological knowledge and supports future research in ecology and biodiversity conservation, while advocating for integrated sustainable management strategies including awareness-raising, cooperative structuring, and domestication trials.

Keywords: Ethnomycology, Knowledge transmission, Truffle hunter, Truffle sustainability, Delastria rosea, Tuber oligospermum, Terfezia arenaria.

Ethnobotanical survey and therapeutic ranking of medicinal plants in Muzaffargarh, Pakistan: From traditional use to research priority

Muhammad Usman Khalid — 2026-02-13

Background: The use of medicinal plants in Muzaffargarh, Pakistan, remains poorly documented. This study systematically investigates and ranks the medicinal plants used by local communities, highlighting their therapeutic significance.

Methods: A structured ethnobotanical survey was conducted with 79 informants across 40 communities, using semi-structured interviews and direct field observations. The Garrett ranking technique was applied to priorities medicinal plants by perceived efficacy. Ethnobotanical indices were used to assess the significance of plants.

Results: Seventy-nine informants across Muzaffargarh District documented 75 medicinal plant species from 43 families. Quantitative ethnobotanical analysis using the Garrett-ranking technique identified Nigella sativa as the highest-ranked species, indicating strong community consensus for its use in metabolic and cardiovascular disorders. Zingiber officinale and Trigonella foenum-graecum were highly prioritized, reflecting their frequent use for digestive and metabolic health, while Moringa oleifera ranked among the top species for its perceived role in immune support and overall wellness. Decoction was the most commonly reported preparation method, followed by infusion, maceration, and powdered forms, with oral administration predominating. A statistically significant correlation (p < 0.05) was observed between the Relative Frequency of Citation and the Fidelity Level, indicating consistency between use frequency and perceived therapeutic specificity.

Conclusions: The findings highlight the ethnopharmacological potential of these species, emphasizing the need for phytochemical validation and pharmacological studies. This study presents the first Garrett-ranked ethnobotanical assessment of medicinal plants in Muzaffargarh. These findings contribute to the preservation of traditional knowledge in Muzaffargarh District while emphasizing the need for careful validation of their efficacy and safety.

Keywords: Ethnobotany, Ethnopharmacology, Medicinal plants, Muzaffargarh, Traditional knowledge.

Urban ethnobotany and phytochemical profiles of plants cultivated by Chinese migrants in Buenos Aires, Argentina

Jeremias Puentes — 2026-01-01

Background: In the Area Metropolitana de Buenos Aires, Chinese farmers grow fresh plants that supply Buenos Aires' Chinatown. These crops can be considered Neglected and Underutilized Species since they are little known to the majority of the urban population, who are unaware of their uses and nutritional value. The main objective of this work is to update the ethnobotanical data on plants grown organically and conventionally by Chinese farmers and to determine their phytochemical profile.

Methods: Fieldwork was conducted at two sites in Buenos Aires where two Chinese producers grow plants linked to the traditions of their country. The methodology used consisted of ethnobotanical walks, free listings, and open and semi-structured interviews with farmers and community members. The phytochemical profiles were analyzed using UHPLC-MS/MS, and the data were processed using multivariate analysis to evaluate the differences between the cultivation systems.

Results: Brassica juncea and B. rapa var. chinensis are the most common species in Chinatown and are sold year-round. They are grown conventionally and organically, are linked to Asian culinary traditions, and are produced from imported seeds. Organic crops showed higher concentrations of kaempferol and isorhamnetin derivatives (compounds associated with antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties), which differentiates them from conventional samples.

Conclusions: Urban ethnobotany highlights the role of migrant communities in increasing local agrobiodiversity. Organic farming not only promotes sustainable agriculture, but also improves the biochemical quality of crops.

Keywords: Biocultural diversity, Botanical Knowledge, Organic agriculture, Pearson correlation, PCA, PLS-DA, UHPLC-PDA.

Ethnobotanical survey of plants used as traditional herbs and spices in north-eastern Namibia

Abner Tomas — 2026-02-18

Background: Research on indigenous knowledge as an alternative key to unlock the power of health benefits associated with plant species has gained much interest recently. However, there is a lack of documented information about the use of indigenous plants as traditional herbs and spices and their contributions to health benefits in north-eastern Namibia. The aim of this study was to conduct an ethnobotanical survey of indigenous knowledge of plants used as culinary herbs and spices in north-eastern Namibia.

Methods: Using semi-structured interviews and closed-end questionnaires, ethnobotanical data was collected from random selected informants in the Kabbe North and Kabbe South constituencies between December 2018 and April 2019 without following a specific order. Plant parts and photographs of each species mentioned by at least three independent participants were collected and taken for further identification.

Results: Twenty-three (23) plant species belonging to 16 plant families were collected. Furthermore, the largest proportion of plants used as traditional herbs and spices documented belonged to the family Malvaceae. Leaves were the most used part in food preparations, mainly as leafy vegetables, seasoning, preservation, flavouring, and traditional medicines, followed by roots.

Conclusions: Our preliminary results will serve as a reference, which documents and preserves the indigenous knowledge of plants used as culinary herbs and spices in Kabbe constituencies, Zambezi region, Namibia. Further studies may be needed to determine the biological activities, chemical compounds, and toxicity to support the safe usage of these plants as food additives and natural preservatives for food safety applications.

Keywords: Ethnobotanical survey, herbs, indigenous knowledge, spices, Zambezi region.

Raphia harvesting and management by traditional communities in the Makoua District, Congo

Victor Kimpouni — 2026-01-14

Background: The survey of traditional knowledge associated with Raphia involves three riverside communities, the largest Raphia plantations in Makoua (Congo). The aim is to perpetuate traditional knowledge and the daily involvement of raffia in strengthening the socio-cultural base.

Methods: In addition to bibliographic research, the ethnobotanical survey is coupled with the collection of samples and tangible evidence of the use of these taxa. Informants, aged at least 15, were classified according to gender and socio-professional category. Data collection took place from 17 February 2021 to 15 March 2021 and from 15 September 2021 to 15 November 2021.

Results: Data collection revealed three species (Raphia cf. gentiliana, R. hookeri, R. laurentii), two of which are known to be used in food, phytotherapy and handicrafts. At ethnolinguistic level, the taxa are perfectly serialised by the communities. Ethnobotanical indices (frequency of citation of species and uses (FC), number of uses reported (Nur), relative frequency of citation (FRC), level of fidelity (NF), cultural index of importance of each use category (FC/N), cultural index of importance of all use categories (CI), use value (VU), respondent diversity indices (ID), equitability index (IE)) reveal that all communities, regardless of socio-professional category, use Raphia for the same purposes (food, medicinal, craft), albeit to different degrees. Raphia products come from vegetative and generative organs, and the most prized are leaves, sap, fruits and the beetle larvae that develop on them. Despite some harvesting preferences, these products are a guaranteed source of income for the local population. Although communities are unanimous in their harvesting practices, their anthropic impact on the resource and dependence on it are not expressed with the same acuity. The ever-increasing demand for raffia products on urban and local markets, coupled with the annual harvesting of individuals and unsustainable harvesting techniques, expose Raphia and raffiales to over-exploitation. Traditional communities unanimously approve of the socio-economic and cultural attractions of raffia and its products.

Conclusions: The data from this study is sufficient evidence for us to take another look at these ecosystems. Sustainable management of raffia palm groves and Raphia spp. is more than necessary, both for local populations and for humanity, in the context of the fight against global warming.

Keywords: Ethnobotany, Raphia, endogenous knowledge, ethnobotanical index, sociocultural base, Congo

Species composition and ethnobotanical values of karst plants: implications for conservation in Padang Bindu, South Sumatra

Yulizah Yulizah — 2026-01-01

Background: Karst ecosystems have high biodiversity with important cultural value, but floristic and ethnobotanical studies are limited, including in the Sumatran Karst. Therefore, this research documents plants diversity and utilization used by The Ogan community in the Padang Bindu Karst.

Methods: Data were collected using flora inventory and semi-structured interviews. Analysis included Important Value Index (IVI), distribution, conservation status (IUCN), Invasive Alien Species (IAS), ethnobotanical value (Number of Uses [NUs] and Cultural Importance Index [CI]) using R studio software.

Results: Padang Bindu Karst has important ecological and socio-economic values. The high biodiversity and community’s dependence on key species emphasizes the urgency of community-based conservation through the protection of economically and culturally valuable species, restoration of native species, and participatory control of IAS. Thus, this research provides an integrative contribution among data floristic, conservation status, invasion, and ethnobotany as a model for community-based conservation in South Sumatra.

Conclusions: The communities of the Rwenzori region depend a lot on herbal medicine to treat various diseases irrespective of the availability of modern health care.

Keywords: Padang Bindu Karst; Ethnobotany, Use value; Cultural importance index, Community-based conservation

Ethnobotanical knowledge of wild edible and medicinal plants in Southern Morocco: The case of Guelmim Province

Soumaya Atouife — 2026-01-06

Background: In Morocco, Wild edible plants (WEPs) constitute an essential element of traditional knowledge, contributing to food security, healthcare, and cultural heritage. However, their use is declining due to modernization, agricultural intensification, and the loss of local knowledge, highlighting the need for documentation.

Methods: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted from August 2024 to August 2025 in Guelmim Province, Southern Morocco. The study covered Guelmim city and three rural communes: Timoulay, Laqsabi Tagoust, and Tighmert. Ethnobotanical Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with local informants and analyzed using descriptive statistics and quantitative ethnobotanical indices, namely the Fidelity Level (FL), Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) and Informant Consensus Factor (ICF).

Results: A total of 36 wild edible plant species were recorded. The most dominant families are Asteraceae, Fabaceae, and Lamiaceae (8% each). The study revealed a diversity of uses, with leaves (29.09%) predominating for medicinal purposes, followed by fruits (7.27%) and seeds (5.45%). Decoction was identified as the most common preparation method (38.1%). FL ranged from 18.45% to 96.67%, and RFC values varied from 0.21 to 0.86, indicating variable use importance across species, while the ICF values showed overall high informant consensus.

Conclusions: The present study highlighted that the people of Guelmim Province possess valuable traditional knowledge Documentation of this heritage can support biodiversity conservation, dietary diversification, and food security. Moreover, providing a foundation for sustainable agricultural practices, notably organic farming.

Keywords: Wild edible plants; Ethnobotany; Traditional knowledge; Food security; Guelmim Province; Morocco.

Documentation of medicinal plant use in Karaj, Iran: An urban ethnobotanical study of herbal markets and shops

Sahar Jalali — 2026-01-01

Background: Urban ethnobotany provides critical insights into how traditional plant knowledge adapts within modern societies. Despite Iran’s rich ethnomedicinal heritage, little attention has been paid to cities such as Karaj, where traditional and modern herbal markets coexist.

Methods: Between 2018 and 2024, we surveyed 25 herbal outlets across 12 districts of Karaj. A total of 186 medicinal plant samples were collected, identified, and deposited as herbarium vouchers. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with herbalists and customers to document vernacular names, plant parts used, preparation forms, and therapeutic applications. Quantitative indices, including frequency and relative frequency of citation, were calculated to reveal use patterns.

Results: The study recorded 186 species belonging to 144 genera and 68 families. The most represented families were Asteraceae (10%), Lamiaceae (9%), Apiaceae (8%), and Fabaceae (7%). Fruits (24.9%) and seeds (16.9%) were the most frequently traded parts. The dominant therapeutic categories included digestive (21.4%), immune/general tonic (17.7%), respiratory (10.1%), and nervous system (8.1%) uses. Native species constituted 57% of the recorded flora, while 33% were cultivated or imported.

Conclusions: The herbal markets of Karaj demonstrate both continuity and transformation of traditional medicinal plant knowledge in an urban context. While long-established attari shops preserve vernacular expertise, modern outlets introduce packaged and imported products, reflecting shifts in consumer behavior and trade networks. These findings contribute to understanding urban ethnobotanical systems and emphasize the importance of documenting and safeguarding traditional medicinal knowledge within rapidly changing metropolitan environments.

Keywords. Ethnobotany; medicinal plants; urban markets; Iran; Karaj; traditional knowledge

Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plant uses in polycystic ovary syndrome in western of Algeria

Amira Messaoud — 2026-02-27

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine-metabolic disorder in women of reproductive age. In many communities, medicinal plants are used to manage menstrual irregularities, hyperandrogenic symptoms and metabolic complications, yet this knowledge remains poorly documented in western Algeria. This study aimed to document and quantitatively assess medicinal plants used for PCOS management in western Algeria.

Methods: From March to July 2024, we conducted a cross-sectional ethnobotanical survey in five provinces of western Algeria using semi-structured interviews with 150 informants (women with PCOS, traditional healers, herbalists and herb sellers). Plant specimens were collected during field visits and/or purchased from local markets as reported by informants, identified using standard taxonomic procedures, and voucher specimens were deposited in the herbarium of Djillali Liabes University of Sidi Bel Abbes. Use reports were analysed using relative frequency of citation (RFC), use value (UV), informant consensus factor (ICF) and fidelity level (FL).

Results: We recorded 27 medicinal plant species belonging to 17 families. Lamiaceae (five species) and Apiaceae (four species) were the most represented families. Atriplex halimus L. showed the highest cultural prominence (RFC=0.5266; UV=0.0266), followed by Salvia officinalis L. (RFC=0.3400; UV=0.0333). Most remedies were prepared as infusions or decoctions and administered orally. High agreement among informants was observed for menstrual and hormonal disorders (ICF=0.94).

Conclusion: This first quantitative ethnobotanical report on PCOS remedies in western Algeria highlights a small set of culturally salient species that warrant pharmacological and safety evaluation. The documented knowledge may support future development of affordable complementary approaches and conservation of local ethnomedicinal heritage.

Keywords: Ethnobotanical Survey; Medicinal Plants; Polycystic Ovary Syndrome; Traditional Medicine; Western Algeria

Medicinal plants used in traditional management of breast cancer: An ethnobotanical survey in Sidi Bel Abbès and Saïda, Northwestern Algeria

Abdelfettah Benyamina — 2026-01-06

Background: Breast cancer is the most prevalent malignancy among women worldwide and represents a major public health challenge in Algeria. Despite advances in modern therapies, their limited accessibility and potential side effects lead many communities to continue relying on herbal remedies. Documenting this traditional knowledge is essential for preserving cultural heritage and identifying promising candidates for future pharmacological research. This study aimed to document the traditional use of medicinal plants for breast cancer management in northwestern Algeria, focusing on the wilayas of Sidi Bel Abbès and Saïda

Methods: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted between 2023 and 2024 among 300 informants, using semi-structured interviews and free-listing techniques. Data were collected on plant species, parts used, and preparation methods. Botanical identification was confirmed using reference floras and specialized databases, and validated by taxonomic experts. Quantitative ethnobotanical indices, including Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) and Use Value (UV), were applied to assess the cultural significance of the recorded species.

Results: A total of 59 species belonging to 55 genera and 34 families were recorded. Herbs predominated (81%), with Lamiaceae, Amaranthaceae, and Apiaceae as the most represented families. Leaves (29%) and seeds (20%) were the most frequently used plant parts, while infusion (36%) and decoction (27%) were the dominant preparation methods. The most cited species included Ephedra alata Decne., Nigella sativa L., Allium sativum L., Curcuma longa L., and Berberis vulgaris L., alongside therapeutic uses of several less-documented taxa in the context of breast cancer treatment, such as Euphorbia officinarum L., Annona muricata L., and Hammada articulata (Moq.).

Conclusion: This study provides the first comprehensive ethnobotanical documentation of medicinal plants used for breast cancer in northwestern Algeria. The results reveal both widely recognized and previously underreported species, highlighting the potential of local knowledge to inspire the discovery of novel therapeutic agents.

Keywords: Ethnobotany; Breast cancer; Herbal medicine; Traditional knowledge; Lamiaceae; Northwestern Algeria.

Insights and use of medicinal plants in relieving respiratory affections among students: A case study from Guelma district (Algeria)

Lamia Benhalima — 2026-01-31

Background: In Algeria, respiratory disorders remain the main causes prompting medical attention. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in herbal remedies, which play an essential role in the treatment of this kind of disease. In this context, this study was conducted to examine the awareness and the use of medicinal plants to relieve respiratory symptoms among university students in Guelma district, in northeastern Algeria.

Methods: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted between December 2023 and May 2024 among 300 volunteered university students. The study explored students’ individual experiences in using of medicinal plants to relieve respiratory diseases and the source of their knowledge. Rao-Scott χ² test and ethnobotanical parameters were used to analyze the data.

Results: Findings showed that over 96% of students use at least three medicinal plants to treat respiratory system ailments. No difference was registered between exogenous and endogenous knowledge sources. Students identified 33 medicinal plants species classified under 17 families. Myrtaceae and Lamiaceae exhibited the highest family importance values. Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merr. & L.M.Perry (RFC=0.52; UV=38.8) and Eucalyptus globulus Labill. (RFC=0.42; UV=40.7) being the most frequently employed species. Strong agreement among students and absolute fidelity levels (FL=100%) were recorded for several species used to manage respiratory ailments.

Conclusions: The present study highlighted valuable information about students’ ethnopharmacological knowledge. However, proper training in this field, as well as exploration of the bioactive molecules of the species mentioned and assessment of their safety, are necessary.

Keywords: Ethnobotanical data, Medicinal plants, Respiratory ailments, Students, Survey.

Endogenous knowledge and use value of Mesosphaerum suaveolens (L.) Kuntze, an invasive alien plant in Burkina Faso

Ousmane Sawadgogo — 2026-01-14

Background: Mesosphaerum suaveolens (L.) Kuntze is an alien invasive plant species in many countries in tropical Africa, including Burkina Faso. This study aimed to document the indigenous knowledge of local people regarding the invasion of M. suaveolens, its uses, and the impact of its proliferation.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted from January to March 2024 with 260 individuals from six ethnic groups in four sites across two climate zones of Burkina Faso. The use values and citation frequencies were calculated. A multinomial regression analysis was performed to identify the factors influencing indigenous knowledge.

Results: The proliferation of M. suaveolens has intensified over the past two decades. Livestock was identified as a primary source of the species' spread. The uses of M. suaveolens were classified into six categories; medicinal uses were by far the most common (69.61% of responses), followed by the use of the species as a mosquito repellent (4.61%). Values varied significantly according to climate zones and ethnic groups (p < 0.001). Most respondents (93.7%) reported that the species is fast spreading, and 75.4% of them considered the proliferation of M. suaveolens as a major threat to local plant resources. The impacts of the invasion include the extinction of local species, the reduction of biodiversity, and the depletion of pastures.

Conclusions: This study highlighted the huge endogenous knowledge from local communities that can serve for the implementation of strategies to mitigate the invasion impacts of M. suaveolens.

Keywords: Biodiversity, ethnobotany, invasive species, Mesosphaerum suaveolens, endogenous knowledge.

Contexte : Mesosphaerum suaveolens (L.) Kuntze est une espèce végétale exotique envahissante présente dans de nombreuses régions, notamment au Burkina Faso. Cette étude visait à documenter les connaissances traditionnelles des populations locales concernant l’invasion de M. suaveolens, ses usages et l’impact de sa prolifération.

Méthodes : Des entretiens semi-structurés ont été menés auprès de 260 personnes appartenant à six groupes ethniques répartis dans deux zones climatiques du Burkina Faso. Les valeurs d’usage et les fréquences de citation ont été calculées. Une analyse de régression multinomiale a été réalisée afin d’identifier les facteurs influençant les savoirs autochtones.

Résultats : La prolifération de M. suaveolens s'est intensifiée au cours des deux dernières décennies. L'élevage a été identifié comme une source majeure de propagation de l'espèce. Les usages de M. suaveolens ont été classés en six catégories ; parmi ceux-ci, les usages médicinaux étaient de loin les plus fréquents (69,61 % des réponses), suivis de l'utilisation comme répulsif contre les moustiques (4,61 %). Les valeurs variaient significativement selon les zones climatiques et les groupes ethniques (p < 0,001). La plupart des répondants (93,7 %) ont indiqué que l'espèce se propageait rapidement, et 75,4 % d'entre eux considéraient la prolifération de M. suaveolens comme une menace majeure pour les ressources végétales locales. Les impacts de cette invasion comprennent l'extinction d'espèces locales, la réduction de la biodiversité et la diminution des pâturages.

Conclusion : Cette étude a mis en évidence l’immense savoir endogène des communautés locales qui peut servir à la mise en œuvre de stratégies visant à atténuer les impacts de l’invasion de M. suaveolens .

Mots-clés : Biodiversité, ethnobotanique, espèces envahissantes, Mesosphaerum suaveolens , savoir endogène.

Ethnobotanical explorations in Unamancheri, a village in the outskirts of Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Ramesh Ramar — 2026-03-09

Background: The study aims to document the ethnomedicinal plants used in the Unamancheri village near Chennai. This is the first time documenting the medicinal plants used in an urbanized area.

Methods: The uses of medicinal plants were identified through questionnaires and interviews with the local people. Data obtained from the interview analyzed with MS-office.

Results: In this study, we identified 60 Angiosperm species from 36 families that cure multitude of external as well as internal ailments. Much of the plants utilized for ethnomedicine belong to the family Fabaceae. Herbaceous species are preferred more than other plant life forms and leaves are the predominant utilization parts for curing illness. Most people in this village recommended plants and their highest use value observed was from Ormocarpum cochinchinense (Lour.) Merr. (0.91) followed by a combination of Morinda pubescens J.E.Smith, Vitex negundo L. var. negundo and Azadirachta indica A.Juss. (0.84) and Acalypha indica L (0.82)

Conclusions: The study evinces that people still depend on plants for curing health issues. The plants with high use value index should be prioritised for conservation.

Keywords: An urbanized area, Conservation, Ethnobotanical studies, Irula tribal, Ormocarpum cochinchinense

Cultural consensus in medicinal plant use among the Tangkhul Naga of Northeast India

Tuisem Shimrah — 2026-02-01

Background: Traditional medicinal knowledge is vital for meeting primary healthcare needs in rural and indigenous populations and in supporting biodiversity conservation. The Tangkhul Naga community of Manipur, located in the Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot, maintains rich ethnobotanical traditions, but quantitative analyses of their medicinal plant knowledge remain limited. This study aims to document medicinal plant usage in Tangkhul and to assess which species are culturally and therapeutically most important.

Methods: Data on medicinal plants were obtained through semi-structured interviews with the local informants. Quantitative botanical indices, including Informant Consensus Factor (ICF), Use Value (UV), and Fidelity Level (FL%), were applied to evaluate cultural consensus on ailments, species importance, and ailment-specific reliability of species.

Results: ICF values across nine ailment categories ranged from 0.9350 to 1.0, indicating strong agreement among informants and a robust ethnomedicinal knowledge base. Species with high UVs included Allium hookeri (UV = 0.787), Aloe vera (UV = 0.697), and Ageratina adenophora (UV = 0.642) as culturally salient multipurpose plants. Species exhibiting perfect FL% (100), namely Acmella uliginosa, Ageratum conyzoides, and Allium sativum, showed very high reliability for specific ailments. The most reported ailment categories were skin and dermatological disorders, respiratory illnesses, and digestive-metabolic ailments.

Conclusions: The findings show that Tangkhul traditional medicinal knowledge is both resilient and adaptive. Priority plant species identified here warrant pharmacological validation. Furthermore, these results highlight the need for initiatives in cultural preservation and sustainable species management to support both human health and biodiversity.

Keywords: Tangkhul Naga; Ethnobotany; Medicinal plants; Traditional knowledge; Cultural consensus; Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot

Quantitative ethnobotany of medical plants in non-indigenous communities of Loboc, Bohol, Philippines

Iresh Beloy — 2026-01-22

Background: Ethnobotanical knowledge among non-indigenous populations remains underdocumented, limiting our understanding of the role traditional medicine plays in rural Philippine healthcare. This study aimed to quantitatively assess and compare ethnomedicinal plant knowledge in two non-indigenous barangays, Gon-ob and Buenavista, in Loboc, Bohol, Philippines.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 146 respondents to document the use of medicinal plants. Four quantitative ethnobotanical indices, Use Value (UV), Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), Informant Consensus Factor (ICF), and Fidelity Level (FL), were calculated to determine cultural significance, agreement, and specificity of plant use within and between communities.

Results: From 146 informants, a total of 42 medicinal plant species belonging to 27 families were recorded, with Euphorbiaceae being the most represented. While several species were commonly used in both communities, differences were observed in use values, relative frequency of citation, preparation methods, and ailment-specific consensus between Gon-ob and Buenavista. Halib-on (Blumea balsamifera), kalabo (Coleus amboinicus), and lagundi (Vitex negundo) exhibited the highest UV and RFC values, underscoring their importance in community health traditions. Leaves were the most frequently used plant parts, and decoction was the predominant preparation method. High ICF values for respiratory and skin ailments indicated a strong, yet community-specific, consensus among informants.

Conclusions: The study provides baseline quantitative evidence of both shared and distinct ethnomedicinal practices between two non-indigenous rural communities in Bohol, highlighting culturally significant species that warrant prioritization in future research and conservation efforts. In particular, B. balsamifera, C. amboinicus, and V. negundo, identified as the most culturally important species, should be prioritized for focused documentation, sustainable management, and further pharmacological research.

Keywords: Bohol, Philippines, Ethnobotanical indices, Ethnomedicinal plant, Non-indigenous local communities, Traditional knowledge

Vanishing ethnomedicinal wisdom: A survey of indigenous plant-based healing in Rangamati, Bangladesh

Solayman Ope — 2026-02-13

Background: This study documents and evaluates the ethnomedicinal knowledge practiced by Baiddya healers in Rangamati district of the Chittagong Hill Tracts, Bangladesh, with the aim of assessing the traditional relevance of medicinal plants and examining their scientific justification through pharmacological evidence.

Methods: Ethnobotanical data were collected between 5 January and 7 February 2025 using semi-structured interviews, guided field observations, and participatory plant walks involving fifteen experienced Baiddyas representing the Chakma, Marma, and Tanchangya communities.

Results: A total of sixty-five medicinal plant species belonging to sixty-one genera and thirty-nine families were recorded. Zingiberaceae, Acanthaceae, Lamiaceae, and Araceae were the most frequently represented families. Comparative analysis with published pharmacological literature revealed that approximately sixty to seventy percent of the documented species showed moderate to strong scientific validation corresponding to their traditional uses, particularly for gastrointestinal, dermatological, respiratory, and infectious conditions. Well-established medicinal plants such as Curcuma longa, Aloe vera, Aegle marmelos, Justicia adhatoda, and Tinospora cordifolia demonstrated high translational relevance.

Conclusions: The findings indicate that ethnomedicinal knowledge in Rangamati constitutes an empirically grounded healthcare system with significant potential for contributing to modern natural-product drug discovery. Preservation and scientific integration of this indigenous knowledge are essential for both cultural sustainability and future pharmacological innovation.

Keywords: Ethnomedicine; medicinal plants; Rangamati; Bangladesh; pharmacological validation; Baiddya

Ethnobotanical knowledge and plant use patterns among the major ethnic communities of Mahankal Rural Municipality, Lalitpur District, Central Nepal

Asha Bhatt — 2026-01-14

Background: Plant species and their traditional knowledge play a vital role in sustaining the livelihoods, culture and health of communities in Nepal. Although several ethnobotanical studies have been conducted across the country, systematic documentation at the local level and active conservation initiatives remain limited, particularly in rapidly urbanizing regions.

Methods: This study was conducted in Mahankal Rural Municipality of Lalitpur District, central Nepal to document local ethnobotanical knowledge and practices under various aspects. Field work was carried out during June-July 2024 using purposive sampling of 56 respondents representing diverse genders, age groups and ethnic communities. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions and participatory field walks with key informants including traditional healers and elderly knowledge holders.

Results: A total of 98 plant species belonging to 54 families were recorded of which 58 species were medicinal, 19 used as fodder, 15 for cultural/religious purposes and 14 used in food items. Those medicinal species were used in treating 41 various ailments with leaves and whole plants as the most commonly used parts. Similarly, oral administration was the predominant mode of application and juice was the common form medicinal products administered to the body. Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) and Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) analyses revealed strong agreement for treatments of neoplasms (ICF=0.95), poisoning (ICF=0.92) and reproductive disorders (ICF=0.89). This highlights the reliability and cultural significance of certain species such as Zanthoxylum armatum, Ageratina adenophora and Mentha spicata. Statistical analysis demonstrated that education level (χ²=18.42, p<0.01) and ethnicity (χ²=24.67, p<0.001) significantly influenced knowledge distribution with Tamang communities showing distinctly higher familiarity with medicinal applications compared to Brahmin and Chhetri groups. Ethnicity also significantly affected treatment preferences for gastrointestinal and respiratory ailments (p<0.05). Younger generations (<40 years) exhibited markedly reduced knowledge of traditional practices compared to elders (>60 years) (H=32.15, p<0.001).

Conclusions: The study highlights both the richness of ethnobotanical species and vulnerability of traditional knowledge and its transfer to future generations. Priority conservation attention is required for overexploited species including Zanthoxylum armatum, Taxus wallichiana, Swertia chirayita and Valeriana jatamansi, which face habitat loss and unsustainable harvesting pressure in the study area.

Keywords: Ailments, Ethnomedicine, Indigenous knowledge, Informant consensus factor (ICF), Local healers, Non-timber forest products (NTFPs), Relative frequency of citation (RFC), Traditional practices

Traditional knowledge of medicinal macrofungi commonly used by riverine populations of the Taï, Comoé and Marahoué national parks (Côte d’Ivoire)

Bakary Soro — 2026-01-25

Background: Medicinal mushrooms are generally listed without specific therapeutic indications. This study aimed to enhance knowledge and practices regarding the use of medicinal mushrooms in the treatment of various ailments.

Methods: An ethnomedicinal survey was conducted using a questionnaire focusing on local names, parts used, preparation methods, and routes of administration of macrofungi. The knowledge gathered was assessed based on the frequency of recipe citations and the relative level of exploitation of ethnopharmacological species.

Results: This study reveals that women are the main holders of ethnopharmacological knowledge. The work focused on twelve species grouped by the informants into seven ethno-species. Species belonging to the genera Auricularia and lycoperdon were each considered a single ethno-species. The naming of ethnospecies is based on the shape of the sporophore, the color and the sociolinguistic affiliation of the users. These ethno-species are used in the treatment or relief of 28 conditions for which the ethno-medicinal recipes have been inventoried. The majority of conditions listed are treated using whole sporophores. The treatment of twelve conditions involves the combination of various inputs. The most common preparation method involves grinding the sporophores into powder. The method of administration of the recipes depends on the location of the condition. The analysis shows variability in the use of preparations and unequal exploitation of ethnospecies.

Conclusions: This study highlights the wealth of ethnopharmacological knowledge about macrofungi. However, the gradual erosion of this knowledge among young people underscores the need to document and promote it.

Keywords: Traditional knowledge, Medicinal macrofungi, Local communities, National parks, Côte d'Ivoire.

Ethnomedicinal study on the Tajpuriya community in Shivasatakshi Municipality, Jhapa district, eastern Nepal

Sapana Tajpuriya — 2026-02-28

Background: Traditional medicine plays a crucial role in the healthcare system of Nepal. Various ethnic groups rely on locally available plants, preserving the ethnomedicinal knowledge. The present study aimed to document the traditional medicinal plant knowledge of the Tajpuriya, an ethnic group of eastern Nepal, through an ethnomedicinal survey conducted in Jhapa District.

Method: An ethnomedicinal study was conducted through interviews employing semi-structured, open-ended questionnaires with 52 informants, including two key informants. Spearman’s correlation analysis was applied to examine the relationship between informant’s age and ethnomedicinal knowledge, while the Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used to evaluate gender-based differences in ethnomedicinal knowledge. Quantitative indices, including the Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) was computed to evaluate the degree of shared knowledge among informants about traditional treatments, and the Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) was determined to identify the common medicinal plants in the study area.

Results: This study recorded 61 plant species from 39 families and 57 genera, treating 13 disease categories. The Wilcoxon test showed significant gender variations in plant knowledge (p = 0.005) and Spearman’s correlation revealed a strong positive relation between age of informants and species cited (r = 0.687, p < 0.001). Among the documented species, herbs (38 spp.) represented the dominant growth form, while leaves (23 spp.) were the most commonly utilized plant parts. Juice (31 spp.) was the predominant form of preparation, while oral intake (40 spp.) was the most frequently reported route of administration. The highest ICF was recorded for ear and neurological disorders, whereas digestive disorders involved the largest number of species used (21 spp.). Eclipta prostrata and Centella asiatica showed the highest values of RFC.

Conclusions: This study documented the ethnomedicinal information from the Tajpuriya ethnic group in Shivasatakshi Municipality, Jhapa District, highlighting the need for preservation of biocultural heritage and providing a valuable foundation for future pharmacological studies and drug discovery.

Keywords: Medicinal plants, Traditional knowledge, Age, Gender

Ethnobotanical survey of Olea europaea L. subsp. europaea var. sylvestris (Mill.) Lehr (Oleaster) in the Fez–Meknes Region (Morocco): Traditional knowledge, uses, and conservation insight

Mohamed Maai — 2026-02-14

Background: This study investigates traditional uses and local knowledge of wild olive (Olea europaea L. subsp. europaea var. sylvestris (Mill.) Lehr), commonly known as oleaster, in traditional medicine, agriculture, food, and other local practices in Fez–Meknes region of Morocco.

Methods: From October 2023 to January 2025, an ethnobotanical survey was carried out in the Fez–Meknes area using a structured questionnaire. A total of 420 informants were interviewed to document knowledge and uses of oleaster.The Chi-square test and Factorial analysis were used to explore and visualize associations between variables and identify profiles of knowledge and practices.

Results: The survey shows that traditional knowledge and use of oleaster are mainly preserved by older people (>60%), rural residents (56%), low-education groups (57%), and married individuals (55%). Therapeutic uses dominate (30.5%), followed by agricultural uses (28.6%). In traditional medicine, oleaster is often used to treat oral problems (33.72%), diabetes (15.12%), and gastro-duodenal disorders (6.28%). In agriculture, it is mainly used as a rootstock (35.63%). Leaves are primarily employed for therapeutic purposes (55.3%), while the whole plant is used in agriculture (64.3%), fruits are favored in cosmetics (76.1%) and cooking (95%). Dosage is imprecise and toxicity is rare with minor side effects reported.

Conclusions: This study confirms a multifield important interest (mainly medicinal) of the oleaster in Fez-Meknes (Morocco). Further research should validate its medicinal properties, encourage safe use, and preserve such knowledge.

Keywords: medicinal plants, indigenous practices, rural communities, health disorders, toxicity

Interpreting flora motif in the Karmawibhangga relief: A Buddhist iconography of Borobudur

Fauziah Fauziah — 2026-01-06

Background: Borobudur Temple in Indonesia is one of the world's UNESCO World Heritage sites, known for its beautiful architecture, with reliefs, sculptures, and carved stone. The Karmawibhangga reliefs, hidden at the temple’s foot, uniquely illustrate the law of karma through cause-and-effect vignettes. Despite their fragmented preservation, these reliefs reveal flora as active narrative elements, though their species and symbolic roles remain understudied.

Methods: This study employed a multidisciplinary approach to analyse the flora motifs in the 160-panel Karmawibhangga. Flora identification was conducted through a morphological approach, comparing the habitus, roots, stems, leaves, flowers, and fruits, and analysing relief as a discourse that combines social and ecological dimensions in an interpretive manner. Narrative structure was examined through intratextual, intertextual, and extratextual.

Results: This study identifies 39 plant species—dominantly Mangifera indica (mango), Calophyllum inophyllum (tamanu), and sacred composites such as the Kalpataru—through morphological analysis and cross-referencing with the Javanese flora and Buddhist texts. Results reveal intentional species selection: mango groves reflect abundance and meditation sites, while tamanu’s riverbank habitat symbolises karmic dissemination. Spatial analysis shows that the flora is arranged hierarchically (middle > left > middle > right panels) and viewed from distinct angles (frontal, aerial, and ground-level), reinforcing narrative themes. The Kalpataru, blending Ficus religiosa (Bodhi tree), Garcinia mangostana (mangosteen), and Nelumbo nucifera (sacred lotus), exemplifies sacred hybridity, strategically placed in the north-east panels associated with heavenly realms (svargga). Agricultural depictions (taro, rice, millet) further intertwine subsistence with cosmology, as millet’s north-facing panels align with Buddhist celestial symbolism. The study underscores flora as semiotic devices that encode karmic principles through ecological realism and artistic convention.

Conclusion: The Karmawibhangga reliefs depict flora as a dynamic semiotic system. By integrating naturalistic details with doctrinal symbolism, these reliefs can articulate a holistic vision of life's meaning.

Keywords: Borobudur, Buddhist iconography, Flora symbolism, Javanese ecology, Karmawibhangga reliefs

Ethnobotanical study of edible plants sold in Nong Muen Than Forest Product Market at Roi Et Province, Thailand

Surapon Saensouk — 2026-03-04

Background: Forest-product markets in northeastern Thailand play a crucial role in maintaining traditional food systems and transmitting local ecological knowledge. However, their ethnobotanical composition and cultural significance remain insufficiently documented. This study examines the diversity, utilization patterns, and cultural importance of edible plants sold in the Nong Muen Than Forest Product Market in Roi Et Province.

Methods: Ethnobotanical data were collected through market surveys, interviews with market customers, and direct botanical identification. Quantitative analysis was conducted using the Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) to evaluate cultural salience among recorded edible plant species.

Results: A total of 88 edible plant species belonging to 42 families and 79 genera were documented. The most species-rich families were Fabaceae (10 species) and Cucurbitaceae (7 species). Over half of the species were native to Thailand (54.54%), with the remainder introduced or cultivated. Key culturally important taxa included Oryza sativa L., Curcuma singularis Gagnep., Citrus × aurantiifolia (Christm.) Swingle, Carica papaya L., and Solanum virginianum L. Wild and forest-associated vegetables, aquatic plants, and aromatic herbs were well represented, reflecting diverse landscape-based food procurement practices. RFC values ranged from 0.100 to 1.000, with seasoning plants and multipurpose vegetables receiving the highest citations from vendors.

Conclusions: The Nong Muen Than Forest Product Market serves as an important repository of biocultural heritage, supporting the resilience of traditional food knowledge and the continued integration of wild, semi-wild, and cultivated edible plants into local diets. The diversity and cultural significance of these species underscore the essential role of rural markets in sustaining regional food security and culinary identity in northeastern Thailand.

Keywords: edible plants; Ethnobotany; local market; Nong Muen Than Forest Product Market; Roi Et Province

Ethnobotanical survey of Hypolipidemic medicinal plants in Ghardaia Region, Algeria

Hafida Kedaid — 2026-03-06

Background: Hyperlipidemia (HL) constitutes a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. This lipid disorder has become a primary focus for researchers because of its high prevalence worldwide, prompting increased efforts to discover new treatment options originating from natural alternatives to synthetic medications that can have serious adverse effects. Ethnopharmacological and ethnobotanical approaches have played a key role in documenting and identifying medicinal and aromatic plants. This survey aims to document Algerian medicinal plants (MPs) reported by local populations in the Ghardaïa region (Southern Algeria) as effective for the management of HL.

Methods: The survey was conducted from February 2023 to February 2024. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews with 184 participants and analyzed using Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), Use Value (UV), and Informant Consensus Factor (ICF). Additionally, for each identified plant species, ethnobotanical characteristics were documented, including the plant parts used and preparation methods.

Results: The investigation documented 48 species distributed across 28 families, with Lamiaceae and Apiaceae emerging as the dominant families. Additionally, several plants were documented for the first time in the management of HL, including Pituranthos chlorantus (Coss. and Dur.), Echinops spinosus L., and Fagonia glutinosa Del. Aerial parts were the most frequently used (30%), while infusion was the predominant preparation technique (40%). Quantitative analysis identified the species with the highest UVs as Pituranthos chlorantus (1.75), Mentha spicata L. (1.50), and Moringa oleifera Lam. (1.42). However, the highest Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) values were for Citrus limon L. (RFC = 0.86), Pituranthos chlorantus, Solanum melongena L., Olea europaea L., and Camellia sinensis L. (each with RFC = 0.652). The highest agreement of diseases was hyperlipidemia and hyperglycemia (ICF = 0.98), followed by obesity and hypertension (ICF = 0.97).

Conclusions: The documented medicinal flora provides valuable baseline data for researchers working in phytotherapy for cardiovascular diseases, obesity, hyperglycemia, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. These species represent promising sources of novel bioactive compounds that may be developed into therapeutic agents.

Keywords: Medicinal plants, traditional medicine, Hyperlipidemia, Ghardaia, Algeria

Ethnobotanical approach of plant diversity and market availability used for diabetes management in Benin and Burkina Faso, West Africa

Souleymane Compaoré — 2026-01-25

Background: The management of diabetes in sub-Saharan African countries remains a major challenge for low-income populations. This study provides a comparative analysis of the plants used by herbalists to manage diabetes in Benin and Burkina Faso.

Methods: Market surveys were conducted among 27 herbalists in each country from 2023 to 2024. A semi-structured interview was performed with herbalists who agreed to participate. The main information collected included the local names of the plants sold, the methods of preparation and administration of the recipes, and the recipe prices. Diversity, similarity, market availability indices, and informant consensus factors were determined. The most cited plants underwent phytochemical screening and analysis of chemical compounds.

Results: forty species were identified in each country, but with a very low similarity index (Ij = 0.0256). Shannon, Simpson, and Pielou index revealed comparable diversity structures between the two countries, despite a vastly different floristic composition. The market availability index was not correlated (p = 0.35; p = 0.85) with conservation status (IUCN), suggesting that the presence of species on the markets does not depend on their overall threat level. However, bark is mainly cited (38.5 %) in Burkina Faso, while leaves are dominant (38.3 %) in Benin. The most cited species reveals the presence of chemical compounds of interest for diabetes management.

Conclusions: these results highlight the importance of local knowledge in diabetes management in both countries, while raising sustainability concerns about the exploitation of plant resources.

Keywords: market survey, diabetes, species diversity, management, West Africa

Traditional knowledge in festivals: agricultural practices and biodiversity conservation among the Ho tribe of Jharkhand

Anand Raj — 2026-02-20

Background: The Ho tribe of Jharkhand weaves ecological knowledge into seasonal festivals that guide agricultural practices and promote biodiversity conservation. These rituals, rooted in tribal cosmology, foster sustainable living and preserve traditional knowledge across generations.

Methods: Ethnographic research was carried out in ten villages of West Singhbhum district during two agricultural seasons (February and October 2024). Data collection involved 150 participants through semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs), and participant observation. Six major festivals Maghe, Baha, Hero, Hermut, Bartauli, and Jomnama were studied for their connections to seasonal farming and ecological practices.

Results: The festivals align with stages of the agricultural cycle, such as seed purification, soil preparation, transplantation, pest control, and harvest. Sacred species like Sal (Shorea robusta) feature prominently across rituals for their spiritual and ecological roles. Over 70% of participants expressed concern about declining knowledge transmission due to youth migration and changing cultural dynamics.

Conclusions: The Ho community’s festivals act as cultural mechanisms for agroecological stewardship and biodiversity conservation. Recognizing and supporting these practices is critical amid threats from modernization and environmental change. Policies aligned with SDGs 13 and 15 should incorporate Indigenous Knowledge Systems to foster community-based conservation.

Keywords: Ho Tribe, Traditional Knowledge, Biodiversity Conservation, Indigenous Festivals, Oral Traditions

Current issues in the preservation of wild plant resources in the Tashkent Region (Uzbekistan)

Olim K. Khojimatov — 2026-01-01

Background: The article provides research on the biological resources of the natural medicinal flora of Tashkent region (Uzbekistan), which have started to decrease sharply in recent years due to anthropogenic factors.

Methods: The assessment of the distribution ranges of medicinal plants was carried out using the route-reconnaissance method widely applied in resource surveys. Field observations were conducted across all foothill and mountain regions of the Tashkent Province. To ensure data comparability, the standard methodology for evaluating the stocks of medicinal and technical plant raw materials (Borisova 1966; Khojimatov 2021) was employed, which includes delineation of population boundaries, characterization of habitats, estimation of projective cover, and assessment of resource potential.

Results: Annually harvested species of medicinal plants of the Tashkent region with a volume of more than 30 tons are such species as Crataegus turkestanica Pojark., Ephedra equisetina Bunge, Ferula tenuisecta Korovin, etc. Limited reserves, less than 1 ton are: Dactylorhiza incarnata subsp. cilicica (Klinge) H.Sund., Helichrysum maracandicum Popov ex Kirp., Tussilago farfara L. The main reasons for the ecological tragedy of the region and the reduction of the area of medicinal plants are the expansion of residential areas, the construction of industrial enterprises, cattle grazing, and the uncontrolled collection of plant raw materials, among others. In addition, the taxonomic analysis of the medicinal flora of the Tashkent region in recent decades and information on the dynamics of the decline of some medicinal plant resources in this region are presented.

Conclusions: Based on the results obtained, we have given recommendations on the collection of plant raw materials and their use on an industrial scale only for the mountainous part of the Tashkent region, since the foothills and plains are largely subject to anthropogenic pressure, that is, there is active urbanization of the territories, industrial enterprises are being built and lands are being developed for agricultural purposes.

Keywords: harvesting; medicinal plants; resources; Tashkent region; sustainable using, plant introduction.

Ethnobotanical study of Tetraclinis articulata in western Algeria: traditional uses and therapeutic potential

Chaima Narimane Nesrallah — 2026-01-23

Background: This ethnobotanical survey, carried out in four wilayas of western Algeria (Bechar, El Bayadh, Tlemcen and Ain Temouchent), was based on interviews with specialists in traditional phytotherapy (herbalists and traditional healers) to identify and document the popular uses associated with Tetraclinis articulata (T. articulata), locally known as arar tree.

Methods: Information was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire, enabling the investigation of the therapeutic uses of T. articulata across several clearly defined dimensions, including medical indications (ailments targeted by traditional treatments), plant parts used (leaves, wood, cones, etc.), preparation and administration methods (infusion, decoction, inhalation, external application, etc.), types of treatments practiced, and potentially reported side effects.

Results: The study reveals a widespread integration of the arar tree in local folk medicine, with a usage rate of 99.09 % among participants. A total of 42 ailments were recorded, including digestive disorders (e.g., gastric ulcers), respiratory conditions (e.g., cough), and urological diseases (e.g., urinary tract infections). Two quantitative indicators confirm the importance of the species, with a Use Value (UV) of 2.7 and a Cultural Importance Index (CI) of 1.76.

Conclusions: These results demonstrate the major role of T. articulata in traditional local healthcare, as well as its strong cultural value. The study highlights the richness of orally transmitted knowledge surrounding this species and emphasizes the need to integrate it into a scientific framework for the sustainable development and rational conservation of this plant resource from the Mediterranean region.

Keywords: Tetraclinis articulata, Ethnobotanical survey, Traditional medicine, Therapeutic properties

Traditional knowledge and sustainable agarwood cultural practices among Indonesian ethnic communities

Mohammad Fathi Royyani — 2026-01-31

Background: Gaharu, also referred to as oud or agarwood (Aquilaria spp.), is one of the oldest fragrant substances, possessing profound cultural and economic importance. The historical utilization of agarwood by several ethnic groups globally has been recorded since ancient times. The elevated global demand for agarwood has resulted in problems like overharvesting, exploitation, and illegal trade that are threatening natural populations and market sustainability. There is also a lack of information on the traditional knowledge of indigenous people or ethnic groups involved in collecting and utilizing agarwood. This research is an attempt to explore the sustainability of agarwood cultural practice among generation of ethnic communities and empirical scientific evidence support their uses. We determined variable grading criteria (smell, resin color and density/texture) in different ethnic communities across the islands and show how home-garden cultivation enables a sustainable supply in accordance with ritual longing.

Methods: Ethnoecological studies were conducted based on in-depth interviews carried out with 2-13 key informants for each ethnic communities across Indonesia archipelago (main islands of Indonesia, i.e. Sumatra, Java, Kalimantan, Nusa Tenggara, Sulawesi, Maluku and Papua).

Results: This article reveals the ethnobotanical diversity of agarwood, reflected in variations in naming, use, and perspectives across ethnic groups in Indonesia. These findings demonstrate that agarwood is not merely an economic commodity but has been deeply integrated into an embodied cultural entity. The convergence of ethnographic data with historical sources—both Nusantara manuscripts and colonial records-confirms that knowledge and use of agarwood have been ongoing for a long time. The interdisciplinary approach in this study demonstrates the alignment between traditional practices, such as medicinal uses, and scientific evidence regarding the chemical composition of agarwood. Furthermore, despite declining natural availability due to deforestation, agarwood remains sustainable through cultivation efforts. This practice is driven not only by commercial value but also by cultural and religious needs, confirming the continued role of agarwood in the socio-cultural system of society

Conclusion: The cultural significance of agarwood utilization in ethnic communities should not be overlooked, and this knowledge is a national heritage. And we need scientific evidence to support the anecdotal evidence of those traditional practices.

Keywords: Agarwood, Indonesia, local community, traditional knowledge

Ethnobotany of the apricot tree (Prunus armeniaca L.) in the Batna Region, Algeria: Traditional knowledge, uses, and socio-economic importance

Ayache Laabassi — 2026-01-31

Background: The apricot tree (Prunus armeniaca L.) is deeply embedded in the agricultural and cultural traditions of the Batna region in northeastern Algeria. It holds significant economic value and is associated with a rich body of traditional knowledge, encompassing a wide range of uses that remain largely undocumented and are at risk of being lost.

Methods: Ethnobotanical surveys were conducted from March 2023 to August 2024 in 15 Batna municipalities. Data were collected from 150 local informants using semi-structured interviews and participant observation. Quantitative data were interpreted using ethnobotanical indices such as Use Value (UV), Fidelity Level (FL%), and Informant Consensus Factor (ICF).

Results: Prunus armeniaca is a versatile species with profound socio-economic and cultural value in the Batna region. A total of 28 distinct uses were recorded, distributed across four categories: food (56% of use-reports), medicinal (25%), handicraft (11%), and fodder (8%). All parts of the tree are utilized, with the fruit being the most commonly used (92% of informants). Quantitative indices revealed a high overall Use Value (UV = 0.89) and a significant knowledge gap between older and younger generations (p < 0.001).

Conclusions: This study provides a crucial baseline record of the traditional knowledge associated with P. armeniaca and highlights the urgent need for its conservation in light of the observed intergenerational knowledge erosion. The findings underscore the species' integral role in local livelihoods and identify potential for developing sustainable value-added products, that could support local economies and help preserve this intangible cultural heritage.

Key words: Ethnobotany; Prunus armeniaca, Traditional Knowledge; Quantitative Indices, Batna; Algeria, Conservation

Ethnobotanical study of Cymbopogon citratus (DC) Stapf. (Lemongrass) in Northern Morocco: Traditional uses and phytochemical composition

Jaber Maataoui — 2026-01-31

Background: Cymbopogon citratus (Lemongrass) offers a variety of medicinal, recreational, culinary, and cosmetic benefits to consumers worldwide, largely shaped by local traditions and ways of life. However, little research has explored how people in Northern Morocco utilize this plant, and its chemical composition in the region has seldom been documented.

Methods: A questionnaire was developed to assess awareness, use, cultivation, and storage of lemongrass and was administered through face-to-face interviews with 46 residents of the Tangier metropolitan area. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively, and qualitative responses were examined using thematic analysis. The chemical composition of a local lemongrass sample was determined by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS).

Results: Two-thirds of participants were aware of lemongrass, with about 56% using it in their diets and one-third cultivating it. The most common use involved mixing it with other ingredients to prepare Moroccan tea, home-cooked meals, or traditional remedies for colds, flu, and digestive discomfort. GC-MS analysis revealed 25 distinct components, with geranial (34.47%), neral (28.96%), and α-myrcene (18.8%) as the major constituents.

Conclusions: The use of Cymbopogon citratus in Northern Morocco aligns with cultural practices observed elsewhere in Africa and Asia. The chemical composition supports its traditional medicinal applications and suggests opportunities for commercialization that could benefit both the local economy and traditional medicine. This study lays the groundwork for future comparative analyses of lemongrass use worldwide, offering insights for policymakers and scientists interested in sustainable and culturally grounded medicinal plant utilization.

Keywords: Cymbopogon citratus, Lemongrass, Consumer Use, Survey Research, Morocco, Chemical composition, Ethnobotany

Ethnobotanical survey of Artemisia vulgaris and Laurus nobilis in the Treatment of Microbial Gastroenteritis in Northwestern Tunisia

Marwa Tabouii — 2026-02-02

Background: Microbial gastroenteritis remains a major public health concern, particularly in regions where hygiene conditions and access to healthcare are limited. Alongside conventional treatments, medicinal plants are widely used in traditional medicine to manage gastrointestinal infections. However, community knowledge, perceptions, and practices regarding their use remain insufficiently documented. Understanding these aspects is essential to support the rational integration of traditional remedies into modern healthcare.

Methods: A cross-sectional ethnobotanical survey was conducted among 100 participants from diverse socio-professional backgrounds. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics, awareness of microbial gastroenteritis, perceived causes and symptoms, treatment preferences, and knowledge of medicinal plants used for gastrointestinal disorders. Descriptive analysis was performed to identify trends in perceptions and practices related to plant-based therapies.

Results: The study population was predominantly female (72%), with a mean age of 32.5 years. Awareness of microbial gastroenteritis was high (94%), with poor hygiene and bacterial contamination identified as the main causes. Diarrhea, abdominal pain, and vomiting were the most frequently reported symptoms. Medicinal plants were the preferred treatment option for 52% of respondents, while 24% combined herbal remedies with antibiotics. Nearly half of the participants had previously experienced microbial gastroenteritis, with a higher prevalence among women. Most respondents perceived medicinal plants as effective and safe, as 91% reported no adverse effects. Artemisia vulgaris and Laurus nobilis were the most recognized species (89%), and infusion was the most common preparation method (86.6%).

Conclusion: The findings reveal a strong reliance on medicinal plants for managing microbial gastroenteritis and generally positive perceptions of their efficacy and safety. These results emphasize the need for further pharmacological and clinical studies to validate the therapeutic potential of commonly used plants and support their integration into evidence-based medical practice.

Keywords: Ethnobotanical survey; Medicinal plants; Microbial gastroenteritis; Traditional medicine; Artemisia vulgaris; Laurus nobilis

Traditional use of medicinal plants for Gastrointestinal Disorders: An Ethnobotanical study in Northern Tunisia

Samar Hamrouni — 2026-02-18

Background: In rural areas of Tunisia and the wider Maghreb, where public healthcare services are limited and often expensive, traditional medicinal plants play a crucial role as primary and accessible sources of healthcare. They are particularly used to treat common gastrointestinal disorders such as gastroenteritis. Despite their importance, ethnobotanical knowledge in these regions remains insufficiently documented.

Methods: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted in El Hamra, Amdoun region (Béja governorate, Tunisia) to collect and document data on the use of medicinal plants for the treatment of gastroenteritis. A total of 100 participants were interviewed using a well-structured questionnaire. The investigation focused on sociodemographic characteristics, the most frequently cited plant species, the parts of plants used, preparation methods, and the sources of traditional knowledge.

Results: The findings revealed that women (57%) and young adults aged 20–30 years (33%) are the primary users of medicinal plants. Myrtus communis (52%) and Pistacia lentiscus (35%) were the most commonly cited species used against gastroenteritis. Leaves were the dominant plant parts employed (90%), typically prepared as decoctions (83%). Personal experience was identified as the main source of knowledge (45%), followed by the internet (30%) and reading (25%), indicating an interaction between traditional and modern information channels.

Conclusions: This study highlights the ongoing relevance and transmission of ethnopharmacological knowledge in northern Tunisia. The frequent use of specific species across different regions emphasizes their potential for pharmacological investigation and sustainable exploitation. Overall, the documentation and validation of these traditional practices contribute to the preservation of local cultural heritage and support the development of new therapeutic resources derived from regional flora.

Keywords: Ehnobotany, gastroenteritis, medicinal plants, Myrtus communis, Pistacia lentiscus, Tunisia

Use of the alien invasive species Amaranthus retroflexus L. in Armenia

George Fayvush — 2026-01-23

Background: Two editions of "Ethnobotany of the Caucasus" (2017 and 2025) include data on the use of the invasive species Amaranthus retroflexus L. in the Caucasian countries. We have now obtained new data on the use of this species in Armenia.

Methods: Data on the use of Amaranthus retroflexus were collected through surveys of local populations in four rural communities of the Lori region of Armenia, comprising 42 villages. The Australian Weed Risk Assessment was employed for the invasion risk assessment of the investigated species.

Results: Residents of the Lori region use Amaranthus retroflexus as a food plant. Young shoots and leaves are consumed in salads or pies. A decoction of the plant is also used medicinally for gastrointestinal ailments. Locals use this species as fodder for cattle and sheep, and for fattening pigs. Our estimates indicate that 90% of families in rural communities of the Lori Plateau harvest Amaranthus retroflexus during the three summer months, primarily for their own use, with a small quantity sold in the markets of Stepanavan, Vanadzor, and Yerevan, and supplied to some restaurants in these cities.

Conclusions: Amaranthus retroflexus is widespread in Armenia but is primarily used by the population in only one region of the country as a food and forage plant. People are largely unaware of its beneficial properties and potential medicinal uses. A special campaign should be launched to promote this species as a food plant, while also raising public awareness of its medicinal properties.

Keywords: Ethnobotany, Alien invasive species, Amaranthus retroflexus, Edible and medicinal plants

Biological characteristics of Megacarpaea gigantea Regel fruits and their use in traditional medicine of Uzbekistan

Dilovar T. Khamraeva — 2026-01-01

Background: This article presents data on some biological, morphological, and anatomical features of the fruits of the valuable medicinal and honey plant Megacarpaea gigantea and their use in traditional medicine in Uzbekistan.

Methods: Standard methods were used to study the germination of Megacarpaea gigantea seeds in laboratory conditions. A written questionnaire was used to collect ethnobotanical data. The local population was surveyed with the consent of the respondents. Interviews were conducted in accordance with the Code of Ethics established by the International Society of Ethnobiology (ISE Code of Ethics, 2006).

Results: Due to the presence of fatty acids and other biologically active substances, Megacarpaea gigantea seeds are used internally as a medicinal remedy for kidney and gallbladder ailments, a fact that has been observed by local populations and tabibs over a long period of historical use. An analysis of herbarium specimens included in the electronic database of the National Herbarium of Uzbekistan, Institute of Botany, Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan, has identified the distribution areas of Megacarpaea gigantea in Uzbekistan (mountainous areas of Kashkadarya, Surkhandarya, Samarkand, Jizzakh, and Tashkent regions). The species is most found in the Samarkand and Kashkadarya regions, where the fruits are primarily collected by locals for ethnobotanical purposes. Three Megacarpaea gigantea seed samples, tested in laboratory conditions, failed to germinate due to pericarp sclerifications and high temperatures. A germination analysis of seeds in small containers sown in autumn and spring revealed significantly higher germination rates (up to 82-87%) in autumn, especially in clean sand. This is because the seeds sown in the autumn were subjected to natural stratification, their germination was at a satisfactory level, and with subsequent introduction work, Megacarpaea gigantea can be successfully grown based on the identified biological characteristics of the seeds.

Conclusions: The medicinal properties of Megacarpaea gigantea have been identified, and a seed germination experiment was conducted in laboratory conditions and small containers with a closed root system. The mucilaginous layer of the exotesta of the spermoderm plays a role in seed adhesion to the soil and accumulates moisture for embryo germination. The fatty oils in the myrosin cells of the embryo are adaptive features for its full growth and development in arid conditions and have medicinal properties when consumed orally for gallstones and kidney stones due to their content of various beneficial fatty acids.

Keywords: Megacarpaea gigantea, fruit, seed, seed germination, morpho-anatomical structure, traditional medicine.

Medicinal plants used in the treatment of neurological disorders by traditional practitioners of YSR Kadapa District, Andhra Pradesh, India

Rajagopal Reddy Siddamurthy — 2026-02-21

Background: The YSR Kadapa District of Andhra Pradesh, India, possesses a rich heritage of ethnomedicinal knowledge, with local communities relying heavily on plant-based remedies for healthcare. Neurological disorders present a significant health burden and traditional plant-based treatments offer a vital, culturally important alternative to conventional medicine. However, this traditional knowledge is vulnerable to erosion due to modernization and environmental degradation.

Methods: Ethnobotanical data were collected through interviews and discussions with 75 informants, including traditional healers and local villagers across the district. Information on plant species, local names, families, modes of administration and specific medicinal uses for neurological conditions was meticulously documented and verified. Herbarium specimens were prepared for each species.

Results: The present study documented 41 plant species under 39 genera from 39 families used by traditional practitioners to treat 15 different neurological disorders, including epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, migraine, depression etc. The botanical name, local name, habit, family and precise mode of administration for each species are presented.

Conclusions: This research underscores the profound ethnomedicinal knowledge within local communities of YSR Kadapa and highlights the critical role of plant biodiversity in regional healthcare. The findings emphasize the urgent need to conserve both this invaluable traditional knowledge and the plant species themselves. Further, pharmacological validation of these plants is essential to integrate these traditional remedies into evidence-based healthcare and ensure their sustainable use for future generations.

Keywords: Ethnomedicinal plants, neurological disorders, traditional knowledge, YSR Kadapa District

Ethnobotanical study of Xylopia aethiopica (Dunal) A. Rich. and its parasites of the genus Tapinanthus in Benin

Francis Hounkpe — 2026-01-14

Background: In response to climate change and the degradation of ecosystems, the promotion of indigenous knowledge is a key strategy for the sustainable conservation of biodiversity in West Africa. This study examines the variety of local knowledge and traditional practices related to X. aethiopica and Tapinanthus species.

Methods: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted among 172 respondents familiar with these species in order to document their uses and the plant parts involved. Statistical analyses (Chi² test and Correspondence Analysis) revealed that ethnicity significantly influenced the distribution of knowledge and uses.

Results: For X. aethiopica, the fruit was identified as the most valuable part of the plant (UV = 10). The species is mainly used for medicinal (39.4%), medico-religious (32.75%) and culinary (13.73%) purposes. In contrast, medico-religious (55.88%) and medicinal (38.73%) uses predominated for Tapinanthus spp., reflecting knowledge systems structured by the cultural heritage and ritual traditions of each ethnic group.

Conclusions: These findings emphasise the richness and specificity of indigenous knowledge, highlighting its central role in conserving and sustainably using local plant resources. It is essential to document and integrate this knowledge into participatory ecosystem management policies in order to promote culturally appropriate and sustainable conservation strategies.

Keywords: Ethnobotany, indigenous knowledge, Xylopia aethiopica, Tapinanthus spp., Benin, conservation.

Biocultural dimensions of endangered medicinal flora: Community knowledge, gender roles, and governance in the Pakistani Himalayas

Rizwana Khanum — 2026-02-18

Background: The mountain communities of the Pakistani Himalayas possess rich ethnobotanical traditions centered around high-value medicinal plants such as Trillium govanianum Wall. ex D. Don, Dactylorhiza hatagirea (D. Don) Soo, Aconitum heterophyllum Wall. ex Royle, and Podophyllum hexandrum Royle. These species play vital roles in local health care, livelihoods, and cultural identity. Despite this significance, systematic documentation is limited, posing risks to both traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) and biodiversity conservation.

Methods: From May 2024 to June 2025, an ethnobotanical survey was conducted across 24 mountain villages in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (Neelum, Leepa, and Hattian) and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (Kaghan, Siran, and Galliat), at altitudes of 2,000–3,300 m. Using purposive and snowball sampling, A total of 120 respondents were engaged, including 98 household respondents and 22 key informants (10 forestry officers and 12 herbal traders) interviews were completed. Field observations and gender-segregated focus groups provided complementary insights into plant use, harvesting practices, and trade. Voucher specimens were authenticated at the Pakistan Museum of Natural History. Data were analyzed thematically for TEK, gender, and governance dynamics, alongside quantitative summaries of market dependence.

Results: Community governance structures revealed extensive reliance on TEK for species identification, collection timing, and sustainable use. However, weak institutional enforcement and rising market demand threaten traditional management systems.

Conclusions: Integrating indigenous knowledge and women’s participation into formal conservation and livelihood policies is essential for safeguarding both cultural resilience and Himalayan biodiversity.

Keywords: Ethnobotany; Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK); Trillium govanianum; Dactylorhiza hatagirea; Aconitum heterophyllum; Podophyllum hexandrum; Gender roles; Community governance; Biocultural conservation; Pakistani Himalayas

Ethnobotanical study on the traditional uses of Rosmarinus officinalis L. in the Nâama Region (South-Western Algeria)

Hanane Aouissat — 2026-01-31

Background: Rosmarinus officinalis L. (rosemary) is extensively used by indigenous communities in Algeria for a wide range of therapeutic purposes. Although rosemary holds important cultural and medicinal value, the Nâama region remains insufficiently documented in ethnobotanical literature.

Methods: This study aims to document, analyse and evaluate local ethnobotanical knowledge regarding the traditional uses of R. officinalis within indigenous pharmacopeia. An ethnobotanical survey was conducted among 300 purposively selected informants using semi-structured questionnaires. Quantitative indices, including Use Value (UVs), informant Consensus Factor (ICF), Fidelity Level (FL) and Plant Part Value (PPV) were calculated. Advanced statistical analyses (Chi-square, ANOVA) were performed to assess the influence of socio-demographic factors on knowledge distribution.

Results: The species demonstrated high ethnopharmacological relevance (UV = 3.46). Digestive (FL= 86 %, ICF = 0.992) and respiratory disorders (FL= 69.33%, ICF= 0.978%) were the ailments most frequently treated using rosemary. Leaves were the most commonly used plant part (PPV= 0.623). Infusion (62.33%) and decoction (36.33%) were the dominant preparation methods. Statistical comparisons revealed significant differences in knowledge transmission patterns between age groups and localities.

Conclusions: These findings confirm the therapeutic and cultural significance of Rosmarinus officinalis L. and underscore the importance of further targeted phytochemical and pharmacological studies to support its safe integration into complementary and traditional medicine systems. The study provides a robust baseline for conservation efforts and public health policy recommendations.

Keywords: Rosmarinus officinalis L., Nâama region, indigenous knowledge, traditional medicine, ethnobotanical survey.

Ethnomedicinal use and biological properties of Biebersteinia multifida DC. in Uzbekistan

Z.B. Islamova — 2026-02-04

Background: This article presents data on the biological and morphological features, chemical composition, and traditional medicinal use of the valuable medicinal plant Biebersteinia multifida DC. in Uzbekistan.

Methods: Standard methods of High-Performance Liquid Chromatography were used to study the chemical composition of the vegetative organs of Biebersteinia multifida DC. The nitrogen content was determined by the Kjeldahl method. 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.

Results: In Uzbekistan, Biebersteinia multifida is known as Qontepar. Since ancient times, in folk medicine, a decoction prepared from the rhizomes of a plant has been used as a hemostatic agent for postpartum bleeding and stomach diseases. Infusion of the plant in milk is used for asthma, gastritis and respiratory tract diseases. In addition, B. multifida are used in traditional medicine as a medicine for diseases of the musculoskeletal system, bone fractures and skin diseases. In the laboratory, 20 types of free amino acids, 44 types of macro-, micro-, ultramicroelements, water-soluble vitamins B₁, B₂, B₆, B₉, B₁₂, PP, C were determined from the vegetative organs of Biebersteinia multifida, and fructose, glucose, sucrose, maltose were found from carbohydrates. At the same time, the nitrogen content was determined by the Kjeldahl method, based on calculations it was found that the presence of protein in the roots, stems and leaves is 10-11%. Gallic acid was found, from flavonoids, dihydroquercitin, rutin, quercitin were found in the roots (0.0; 5.6; 2.8; 8.3 mg/kg) and in the aboveground mass (4.7; 25.2; 12.3; 11.3 mg/kg). Analysis of herbarium samples from the electronic database of the National Herbarium of Uzbekistan revealed the distribution areas of B. multifida in Uzbekistan (mountainous regions of Kashkadarya, Surkhandarya, Samarkand, Dzhizak and Tashkent regions). The largest number of finds of the species was noted in the Samarkand and Kashkadarya regions, where local residents mainly collect roots for medicinal purposes.

Conclusions: Therapeutic properties of B. multifida have been identified. It was found that the biomass of the stem, leaves and root of B. multifida contains 20 types of free amino acids, 44 types of macro, micro, ultramicro elements, water-soluble vitamins B1, B2, B6, B9, B12, PP, C, from carbohydrates fructose, glucose, sucrose, maltose. The protein contents in various parts of plants are 10-11%.

Keywords: Biebersteinia multifida, amino acids, stem, leaves, root, chemical composition, macro -, micro -, ultramicro - elements, vitamins, ethnobotany.

Natural Dyes from the BTR of Assam: Ethnobotanical insights and standardized evaluation of dye stability

Yutika Narzary — 2026-02-01

Background: The BTR region of Assam lies in the trans-border area adjoining Bhutan and forms part of the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas. It is inhabited by several ethnic tribes who have traditionally woven their ethnic garments and used plants as sources of natural dyes since time immemorial. Despite their cultural and ethnobotanical significance, systematic documentation and scientific evaluation of dye-yielding plants from this region remain scarce. This study addresses this gap by documenting traditional knowledge and characterizing dyes extracted from regional plant species in terms of their color yield and thermal stability.

Methods: The study was conducted between December 2024 and March 2025 across 15 locations situated within the three districts of BTR, Kokrajhar, Chirang and Baksa, of Assam, India. Primary information was gathered via semi-structured interviews and informal discussions with 30 purposively selected informants who were local weavers, industrial dyers, or resourceful custodian of traditional knowledge system. Collected plants were processed for dye extraction and tested for color yield, heat stability, and dye performance. Each species was assigned a dye score based on color strength, solubility, and stability, while conservation status was assessed using IUCN Red List categories.

Results: A total of 42 plant species from 31 families were documented. Malvaceae and Fabaceae were the most prevalent families. The study identified 21 distinct dye colors, with yellow (18.75%), cream (15.63%), and red (14.58%) being the most common. Approximately 63.64% of the dyes exhibited heat stability, with yellow and brown dyes demonstrating the greatest stability. Plant parts utilized for dye extraction included leaves, flowers, roots, bark, and fruit. Dye scores ranged from 24 to 84, reflecting a spectrum of dye performance. Notably, Hibiscus x rosa-sinensis L. and Hibiscus sabdariffa L. achieved the highest dye scores of 84 and 78, respectively.

Conclusions: The study highlights the rich diversity and ethnobotanical importance of dye-yielding plants in the BTR. Several native and cultivated species demonstrated promising dye potential for sustainable, eco-friendly textile applications.

Keywords: Natural dye; Dye-yielding plants; Ethnobotany; Indigenous practices of dye; Dye score

Ethnobotanical assessment of medicinal plants in the ecosystems of the Nurata Range, using an integrated approach

Zokir Kosimov — 2026-01-22

Background: Medicinal plants play an essential role in traditional healthcare systems; however, their ethnobotanical importance is often assessed using single-parameter approaches that do not fully reflect their multifunctional value. Integrated evaluation frameworks are therefore required to provide a more comprehensive assessment of medicinal plant resources at the regional scale.

Methods: Ethnobotanical data were obtained from an original database comprising 374 medicinal plant species traditionally used in Uzbekistan. Based on clearly defined selection criteria, 110 species directly associated with the ecosystems of the Nurata Range were selected for analysis. An integrated Ethnobotanical Value Index (EVI) was applied, incorporating five parameters: use diversity, chemical composition richness, diversity of utilized plant parts, diversity of preparation and application methods, and additional functional value. All parameters were standardized and equally weighted.

Results: The calculated EVI values revealed a clear differentiation in ethnobotanical importance among the studied species. Twelve species (11%) were classified as low-value, 46 species (42%) as medium-value, and 52 species (47%) as high-value medicinal plants. Species with high EVI values were characterized by broad use diversity, functional versatility, and high practical adaptability. Based on EVI rankings, the top 20 medicinal plant species were identified as priority ethnobotanical resources in the Nurata Range.

Conclusions: The results demonstrate that the integrated ethnobotanical evaluation approach is effective for assessing medicinal plant importance at the regional level. This framework enables the identification of both widely used and less-studied species with high applied potential and provides a solid methodological basis for conservation prioritization, sustainable use of medicinal plant resources, and future comparative ethnobotanical studies.

Keywords: medicinal plants; ethnobotany; Ethnobotanical Value Index (EVI); integrated assessment; Nurata Range; biodiversity; traditional medicine

Bridging culture and nature: An ethnobotanical exploration of the Dayak Ga’ai in Berau Regency, East Kalimantan

Ulfah Karmila Sari — 2026-01-06

Background: Dayak Ga'ai, who lived in Berau, East Kalimantan, has rich ethnobotanical knowledge reflecting their deep connection with nature. Ethnobotanical knowledge in Dayak Ga'ai communities does not exist in the form of comprehensive documentation; it is only passed down orally, so it is at high risk of being lost. Documenting and preserving this knowledge is crucial for cultural and environmental conservation.

Methods: This study employs interview methodologies utilizing purposive sampling. We conducted interviews with 70 respondents from five villages. The questions encompass respondent characteristics and ethnobotanical aspects of local wisdom knowledge. We additionally investigated and cataloged the plant. The Use Value (UV), Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), and Cultural Significance Index (ICS) are ethnobotanical indexes employed for data analysis.

Results: The results show that 169 species belonging to 56 families are known and utilized in the live of Dayak Ga’ay community. Categorized into revealed that 13 species are used for cultural purposes, 15 species for handicrafts, 114 species for traditional medicine, 67 species for food, and 38 species for traditional tools and equipment. There are 7 species in each index, namely Calamus sp. (RFC = 0.61; UV = 2.46; ICS = 36), Goniothalamus macrophyllus (RFC = 0.56; UV = 2.78; ICS = 46), Eusideroxylon zwageri (RFC = 0.46; UV = 1.37; ICS = 15), Vitex pinnata (RFC = 0.41; UV = 0.83; ICS = 15), Shorea sp. (RFC = 0.37; UV = 1.48; ICS = 17), Licuala spinosa (RFC = 0.31; UV = 1.57; ICS = 40), and Curcuma longa (RFC = 0.30; UV = 0.60; ICS = 18). They found plants in forests, gardens, and yards.

Conclusions: The Ga'ai Dayak utilize diverse plants. Nevertheless, the ethnobotanical knowledge of these plants is decreasing due to modernization, migration, and deforestation. It is necessary to conserve natural resources and incorporate ancient knowledge into contemporary conservation and educational initiatives.

Keywords: Ethnobotany; Dayak Ga’ai; Traditional knowledge, Cultural heritage, Berau

Ethnobotanical survey of Caralluma europaea (Guss.) N.E.Br. in the Beni Mellal - Khenifra region of Morocco

Ilham Zahir — 2026-03-04

Background: This study forms part of the ongoing efforts to valorize Caralluma europaea, a Mediterranean species of the Apocynaceae family renowned for its therapeutic potential. An ethnobotanical survey was conducted in the Beni Mellal - Khenifra region to document its traditional uses, and possible adverse effects.

Methods: A total of 352 structured questionnaires were administered through direct interviews with consumers and herbalists across rural and urban communes within the five provinces of the Beni Mellal-Khénifra region. Data on the plant’s traditional applications and associated side effects were analyzed using Microsoft Excel.

Results: The study revealed that this plant is primarily used for therapeutic purposes (98%), mainly to treat diabetes (12.38%) and cysts (73.79%), particularly ovarian cysts. The most common preparation method is stem juice (55.22%), which is generally administered orally without a specific dosage, once a day (90.21%) until recovery (54.02%). More than 90% of respondents considered C. europaea to be non-toxic and expressed satisfaction following its therapeutic use.

Conclusions: This study underscores the ethnomedicinal importance of C. europaea in Moroccan traditional medicine, especially for the treatment of cysts. Future pharmacological, toxicological, and phytochemical investigations are recommended to validate these traditional claims and to identify active compounds with potential anti-cyst properties and minimal adverse effects.

Keywords: Beni Mellal-Khenifra, Caralluma europaea (Guss.) N.E.Br, Ethnobotanical Survey.

Ethnobotany of India-A book review

Zubair A. Malik — 2026-02-13

Ethnobotany of India. Volume I (2025): Edited by: Emdad Hossain, Anjali Jaiswal, Bidhan Chandra Roy and Sanjeet Kumar; APRF Publishers, Odisha, India, pp x +126; ISBN: 978-81-984754-7-3. Price: ₹1250

Ethnobotany of India. Volume II (2025): Edited by: Bidhan Chandra Roy, Emdad Hossain and Sanjeet Kumar; APRF Publishers, Odisha, India, pp x +130; ISBN: 978-81-985655-6-3. Price: ₹1450

Ethnobotany of India (Volumes I and II), edited by Emdad Hossain, Anjali Jaiswal, Bidhan Chandra Roy, and Sanjeet Kumar, represents a coordinated effort by the Ambika Prasad Research Foundation (APRF) to document India’s diverse ethnobotanical knowledge. Drawing on contributions from researchers working across varied ecological regions and cultural settings, the two volumes aim to present a contemporary picture of ethnobotanical research in India while underscoring the urgency of recording indigenous plant knowledge that is increasingly threatened by socio-economic change, habitat loss, and cultural transitions.

Given India’s exceptional biological and cultural diversity, ethnobotanical documentation remains both complex and essential. In this context, the present work seeks to capture traditional plant-based knowledge across regions and communities, while also exploring its relevance to healthcare, conservation, and applied research.