Ethnobotany Research and Applications https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era <p><strong><em>Ethnobotany Research and Applications</em> </strong>is an electronic, peer-reviewed, multi-disciplinary and multi-lingual journal devoted to the rapid dissemination of current research in any areas related to Ethnobiology. The journal is currently published by the Department of Ethnobotany, Institute of Botany, Ilia State University, Tbilisi, Georgia. The journal seeks manuscripts that are novel, integrative and written in ways that are accessible to a wide audience. This includes an array of disciplines (Biological and Social Sciences) concerned particularly with theoretical questions in the field of Ethnobiology that leads to practical applications. Articles can also be based on the perspectives of cultural practitioners and others with insights into plants, people and applied research. Database papers, Ethnobiological inventories, Ethnobotanical Notes, Methodology reviews, Education studies and Theoretical discussions are also published.</p> <p>Papers that are primarily agronomic or horticultural, and those concerned mainly with analytical data on the chemical constituents of plants, or bioassays are out of scope for ERA and should be submitted elsewhere.</p> <p>Ethnobotany Research and Applications is indexed in Scopus and Crossref.</p> <p>Ethnobotany Research and Applications (ISSN 1547-3465) is owned and published online by Ilia State University, Tbilisi, Georgia.</p> Saving Knowledge, Department of Ethnobotany, Institute of Botany, Ilia State University, Tbilisi, Georgia en-US Ethnobotany Research and Applications 1547-3465 <p>All articles are copyrighted by the first author and are published online by license from the first author. Articles are intended for free public distribution and discussion without charge. Accuracy of the content is the responsibility of the authors.</p> Indigenous knowledge and uses of Ficus species in the Sudanian zone of Burkina Faso: Prospects for sustainable management of their natural resources https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/6551 <p><em>Background</em>: In Burkina Faso<em>, Ficus</em> is one of the largest plant genera. However, its resource availability, populations status and uses which are crucial for the conservation of the species have not been sufficiently documented. This study aims to fill this gap of knowledge.</p> <p><em>Methods</em>: Semi-structured interviews were carried out purposively from August 2021 to April 2022 with 240 informants of different age categories, ethnic groups and sexes across 12 villages in the Sudanian zone of Burkina Faso. Collected information related to the resource availability, the population status and the uses of <em>Ficus</em> species. The data analysis consisted of calculation of frequencies and ethnobotanic indices such as relative frequency of citation (RFC) and use value. Chi-squared test and generalized linear model were used for statistical comparisons.</p> <p><em>Results</em>: <em>Ficus</em> species resources were perceived to be rare (69.06%) while populations status was perceived to be declining (41.39%). Both resource availability and populations status were only influenced by the ethnic group (p-value &lt; 0.05). The most useful species were <em>F. sycomorus</em>, <em>F. platyphylla</em> and <em>F. sur</em>. Species were mostly used in medicine (RFC = 91.25%), fodder (90%), food (84.58%) and firewood (79.16%). Uses were strongly influenced by informants’ ethnic group (p-value = 0.002), sex (p-value = 8.75e-06) and age category (p-value = 0.001).</p> <p><em>Conclusions</em>: The global decline trend of <em>Ficus</em> species in Burkina Faso combined with their high use by populations suggest the necessity of implementing conservation strategies involving the local population.</p> <p><em>Keywords</em>: Locals’ perceptions, <em>Ficus</em> species diversity, Fig tree uses, Plant use value</p> <p><strong>Résumé</strong></p> <p><em>Contexte </em>: Au Burkina Faso, les <em>Ficus</em> constituent l'un des genres les plus représentatifs de la flore. Cependant, la disponibilité des ressources, la dynamique des populations et les pratiques d’utilisations qui sont cruciaux pour la conservation du taxon n'ont pas été suffisamment documentés. Cette étude vise à combler ce manque de connaissances.</p> <p><em>Méthodes</em> : Des entretiens semi-structurés ont été menés aléatoirement du mois d’août 2021 au mois d’avril 2022 avec 240 informateurs de différentes classes d'âge, groupes ethniques et sexes dans 12 villages de la zone soudanienne du Burkina Faso. Les informations recueillies ont porté sur la disponibilité des ressources, la dynamique des populations et les usages des espèces. L'analyse des données a consisté au calcul de fréquences et d’indices ethnobotaniques tels que la fréquence relative de citation (FRC) et la valeur d'usage. Le test du Khi-deux et le modèle linéaire généralisé ont été utilisés pour les comparaisons statistiques.</p> <p><em>Résultats</em> : Les perceptions des enquêtés ont montré que les ressources des <em>Ficus</em> sont rares (69,06 %), tandis que la dynamique des populations est régressive (41,39 %). La disponibilité des ressources et la dynamique des populations sont influencées uniquement par le groupe ethnique (p-value &lt; 0,05). Les espèces les plus importantes sont <em>F. sycomorus, F. platyphylla</em> et <em>F. sur</em>. Les espèces de <em>Ficus</em> sont principalement utilisées en médecine (FRC = 91,25%), comme fourrage (90%), en alimentation (84,58%) et comme bois de chauffe (79,16%). Les usages sont significativement influencés par le groupe ethnique (p-value = 0,002), le sexe (valeur p-value 0,001) et la classe d'âge (p-value = 0,001).</p> <p><em>Conclusion </em>: La dynamique régressive des espèces de <em>Ficus</em> au Burkina Faso, combinée à leur forte utilisation par les populations, suggère la nécessité de mettre en place des stratégies de conservation impliquant les populations locales.</p> <p><em>Mots-clés</em> : Perceptions des populations locales, diversité des espèces de <em>Ficus</em>, usages du figuier, valeur d'usage des plantes.</p> Youssouf Sawadogo Prospère Sabo Aboubacar-Oumar Zon Blaise Kabré Mamounata Belem Amadé Ouédraogo Copyright (c) 2025 Youssouf Sawadogo, Prospère Sabo, Aboubacar-Oumar Zon, Blaise Kabré, Mamounata Belem, Amadé Ouédraogo 2025-01-22 2025-01-22 30 1 22 Ethnobotanical study of wild edible plants traditionally used by the inhabitants of Lalku Valley, District Swat, Pakistan https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/6450 <p><em>Background</em>: The non-cultivated edible plants are collected by local people from the surrounding environment and used in various food recipes. The relationship of human communities with such plants has been considered an ecological balance system since ancient times. Much ethnobotanical research has proven the importance of wild edible plants for the local communities, especially in emergency like war, famine, and drought.</p> <p><em>Methods</em>: An ethnobotanical study was conducted in 26 villages/ settlements of Lalku Valley, district Swat to document the wild edible plants used as food by local inhabitants. The data was collected using group discussions and oral face-to-face interviews through semi-structured questionnaires. The related information was collected from 222 local informants (179 males and 43 females). Informants were told about the study's aims and Prior Informed Consent was obtained. The acquired data was analyzed through various statistical indices like Use Reports (UR), and Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC).</p> <p><em>Results</em>: A total of 60 plant species belonging to 31 families and 46 genera were reported as wild edible plants (WEPs) traditionally used in the study area. Rosaceae was reported as the dominant plant family with 10 species followed by Lamiaceae 5 while Amaranthaceae and Moraceae with 3 species each. Herbs were reported as the most widely used form with 29 species (48.33%), followed by shrubs with 14 species (23.33%), trees with 12 species (20.00%), and climbers with 2 species (3.33%). Fruits were the most widely used part with 24 species (40.00%), Young shoot with 23 species (39.65%), Leaf with 16 species (26.66%), Seeds and whole plant used with 4 species (6.66%) each, flower with 2 species (3.33%) while bulb and corm with 1 species each (1.66%). Among them, 34 species (56.66%) were consumed uncooked, and 26 species (43.3%) were cooked before consumption. Based on the availability of plants, 26 wild edible plant species are available and collected in the summer season (May-August), 21 species in the spring- early summer season (April- May), and 12 species in the autumn season (September-November).</p> <p><em>Conclusions</em>: The local people have rich knowledge related to wild edible plants (WEPs).The results show a strong relationship between the local communities with wild edible plants (WEPs) species which is a potential source to ensure food security. Further studies are required to document and preserve such traditional knowledge.</p> <p><em>Keywords</em>: Wild edible plant, Ethnobotany, Traditional knowledge, Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC)</p> Sayed Haidar Ali Shah Ghulam Mujtaba Shah Sabith Rehman Niaz Ali Jan Alam Fareeha Waheed Farhat Ali Wahid Hussain Copyright (c) 2025 Sayed Haidar Ali Shah , Ghulam Mujtaba Shah, Sabith Rehman, Niaz Ali, Jan Alam, Fareeha Waheed, Farhat Ali, Wahid Hussain 2025-01-06 2025-01-06 30 1 22 Plant bioresource dependency and climate perspectives in tropical forests of the Eastern Himalaya https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/6357 <p><em>Background</em>: The Indian Himalayan Region harbours significant plant bioresources that are essential for species’ survival. These plants provide food, medicine, and economic support while preserving cultural heritage and ecological sustainability. The present study investigates the dependency of local communities on forest plant bioresources, the transmission of ethnobotanical knowledge, and the impacts of climate change on resource availability.</p> <p><em>Methods</em>: A comprehensive structured questionnaire survey was carried out in 86 households in the Soraipung range using a stratified random sampling method. Data relating to ethnobotanical plants and their socio-economic characteristics were collected over 12 months from September 2021 to August 2022. The informant consensus factor (F<sub>ic</sub>) was calculated to assess the uniformity of ethnomedicinal plant use across ailment categories. The plant species were identified using relevant literature, the necessary data were collected.</p> <p><em>Results</em>: It was found that the local people used a total of 80 plants of ethnobotanical importance available in the forest. Among these, 65 species were identified as edible and economically valuable plants, and 44 species have medicinal values. Notably, 25 plants were classified as having edible, economical and medicinal properties. These plants were found to be utilized either for their own consumption and/or commercial purposes.</p> <p><em>Conclusions</em>: This study has highlighted the significance of preserving ethnobotanical knowledge of available plant bioresources. It also emphasizes the need for further research to provide insights into traditional knowledge to support livelihoods and resilience in the face of climate change.</p> <p><em>Keywords</em>: Bioresources, Climate change, Ethnobotanical, Forests, Livelihood, Traditional Knowledge.</p> Sweeta Sumant Shilpa Baidya Dipshikha Singha Bijay Thakur Anubhav Bhuyan Nayan Jyoti Hazarika Nirmali Gogoi Amit Prakash Ashalata Devi Copyright (c) 2025 Sweeta Sumant, Shilpa Baidya, Dipshikha Singha, Bijay Thakur, Anubhav Bhuyan, Nayan Jyoti Hazarika, Nirmali Gogoi, Amit Prakash, Ashalata Devi 2025-01-06 2025-01-06 30 1 27 Ethnobotanical study of the medicinal plants used by rural communities in the foothill villages of the Alagar Hills region, Eastern Ghats, Tamil Nadu, India https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/6242 <p><em>Background</em>: The traditional medicine systems across the world are reliant on the locally available plant species. It is very common for rural communities to treat their diseases using native plant species. This study aimed to document the rich traditional knowledge of medicinal plants used by rural communities in the foothill villages of the Alagar hills region, part of the Eastern Ghats in Tamil Nadu, India.</p> <p><em>Methods</em>: Ethnobotanical surveys were conducted with 93 informants selected through non-probability sampling and snowball sampling methods distributed across three foothill villages of the Alagar hills region from December 2020 to February 2023. Sociodemographic characteristics of the informants, and ethnobotanical data including plant families, life forms, parts used, modes of administration, and routes of administration were analysed using percentage. Quantitative indices such as Use Value, Family Use Value, Relative Frequency Citation, Informant Consensus Factor, Informant Agreement Ratio, Fidelity Level % were calculated using established formulae.</p> <p><em>Results</em>: About 199 medicinal plants utilized to treat various disease conditions, grouped into 18 different ailment categories, were documented. The Fabaceae family (31 species) was the most commonly used. Herbs (34%) were the most used life form, and leaves (41%) were the most frequently used plant part in herbal drug preparations. Paste (36%) was the most common preparation method, and the oral route (72%) was the most frequently used route of administration.</p> <p><em>Conclusions</em>: This study underscores the significant role of medicinal plants in the healthcare practices of rural communities in the study area. Quantitative analysis identified culturally significant species contributing to the conservation of medicinal plant species, preservation of traditional knowledge, and also for isolation and identification of novel bioactive compounds.</p> <p><em>Keywords</em>: Ethnobotany, Ethnomedicine, Herbal drugs, Dindigul, Traditional knowledge</p> Shrinitha Muthukrishnan Aruna Ramachandran Copyright (c) 2025 Shrinitha Muthukrishnan, Aruna Ramachandran 2025-01-17 2025-01-17 30 1 41 Ethnobotanical survey in the Graecanic Area of Reggio Calabria (Southern Italy): a treasure chest of biodiversity and traditions at risk of extinction https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/6711 <p><em>Background</em>: In many rural areas of the Mediterranean, spontaneous plants play an essential role in everyday sustenance. However, knowledge of the use of spontaneous plants is gradually disappearing owing to socioeconomic changes that do not allow the enhancement of ethnobotanical traditions. The aim of this work was to collect, preserve, and enhance the ethnobotanical knowledge of the Graecanic Area of Reggio Calabria (Southern Italy), a marginal area rich in traditions and ethnobotanical knowledge that are at risk of extinction.</p> <p><em>Methods</em>: Data related to the botanical species known and used by the Graecanic populations were collected and analysed.</p> <p><em>Results</em>: In total, 632 records concerning current and past ethnobotanical use were gathered based on interviews with 24 informants. A total of 157 taxa belonging to 50 different families were identified, along with 22 subspecies and 3 genera utilised for ethnobotanical purposes. The most frequently mentioned families were Asteraceae (105 interviews and 26 taxa), Lamiaceae (69 interviews and 12 taxa), and Apiaceae (56 interviews and 8 taxa). The most frequent use was related to nutrition (263 interviews and 83 taxa). The most used taxon was <em>Clinopodium nepeta</em> (L.) Kuntze subsp. <em>nepeta</em>, known as <strong>nipiteddha</strong> in dialect, cited by 14 informants for 5 different uses and totalling 34 interviews, showing high values for CV (0.72) and RFC (0.58).</p> <p><em>Conclusions</em>: These findings highlight the significance of ethnobotanical knowledge in preserving cultural traditions and promoting sustainable local practices, while also identifying potential new quality products.</p> <p><em>Keywords</em>: Traditional Knowledge; Wild Plants; Cultural Heritage; Food Plants; Medicinal Plants; Wild Resources.</p> Miriam Patti Carmelo Maria Musarella Valentina Lucia Astrid Laface Giovanni Spampinato Copyright (c) 2025 Miriam Patti, Carmelo Maria Musarella, Valentina Lucia Astrid Laface, Giovanni Spampinato 2025-01-31 2025-01-31 30 1 29 Cross culture comparison in ethno-pharmacological uses of plants between two geographical regions of Northwest Pakistan https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/6548 <p><em>Background:</em> Medicinal plants and plant-based medicines are extensively used in the healthcare system in developing countries. Present research work was carried out to record and report the ethno-pharmacological comparison of medicinal plant uses of two culturally different geographical regions (Kohat and Parachinar) located in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan.</p> <p><em>Methodology:</em> The ethno-pharmacological survey was conducted through a semi-structured questionnaire comprised of demographic information and traditional knowledge of medicinal plants of the localities. The survey was based on traditional ethno-medicinal knowledge of local plants. Relative frequency of citation (RFC), informant consensus factor (ICF), and frequency of citation (FC) were among the quantitative tools used to assess the information that was collected.</p> <p><em>Results:</em> A total of 103 medicinal plants were reported in two geographical regions, Kohat and Parachinar. Out of these, 62 medicinal plants were reported from District Kurram Parachinar and 41 from District Kohat. In total, 14 medicinal plant species were common based on reported names and traditional knowledge between the two regions. Based on their local names, therapeutic applications, dosage, treatment, and preparation methods, eighty-nine (89) species were determined to be unusual. Among all reported species highest RFC value was reported for <em>Withania coagulans</em>. In the case of ICF gastrointestinal diseases marked maximum value 730 use report. Leafs reported that most plant parts were utilized during the survey.</p> <p><em>Conclusion:</em> In terms of the components of medicinal plants employed, their local names, and their traditional uses, there was a notable 91.67% difference between the two localities. This suggests that the ethnobotanical knowledge of the two locations differs, reflecting differences in environmental effects and cultural behaviors. These variations show how diverse traditional medicine is in each place and emphasize how crucial it is to record and preserve this distinctive legacy.</p> <p><em>Keywords:</em> Ethno-pharmacological uses, medicinal plants, cross-culture, Kohat, Parachinar.</p> Rishma Batool Amina Nazar Muhammad Adnan Zainab Khursheed Fakhar Mohsin Wahid Hussain Copyright (c) 2025 Rishma Batool, Amina Nazar, Muhammad Adnan, Zainab Khursh, Fakhar Mohsin, Wahid Hussain 2025-01-06 2025-01-06 30 1 21 Diversity of plants used in traditional veterinary medicine in Central-Eastern Burkina Faso https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/6535 <p><em>Background</em>: In the West African Sahel, ethnoveterinary medicine is widely practiced by livestock farmers but remains poorly documented. This study aims to describe the medicinal plants and traditional recipes used for treating major animal diseases in Burkina Faso, specifically in the Centre-Eastern region.</p> <p><em>Methods</em>: Semi-structured surveys were conducted from August to October 2024 with 120 livestock farmers randomly selected from five communes in the Centre-Eastern region of Burkina Faso. Data were analyzed using relative frequency of citations and Sankey diagrams.</p> <p><em>Results</em>: A total of 38 animal diseases were reported, with diarrhea (11%), trypanosomiasis (10%) and retained placenta (9%) being the most frequently cited. The primary causes of animal diseases were nutritional (28.72%), parasitic (26.28%) and environmental (16.26%). Livestock farmers used 88 plant species from 73 genera and 34 families to treat these diseases. The most represented families were Fabaceae (21.59%), Malvaceae (9.08%) and Poaceae (6.82%). The most frequently used species were <em>Khaya senegalensis</em> (34.02%), <em>Parkia biglobosa</em> (18.40%), <em>Terminalia leiocarpa</em> (10.00%), <em>Vachellia nilotica</em> (9.03%) and <em>Vitellaria paradoxa</em> (8.00%). All plant parts were used in the disease treatment, with bark (35.56%), leaves (21.08%) and fruits (11.88%) being the most frequently used. Six preparation methods were identified in the formulation of ethnoveterinary remedies, with maceration (38.82%) and decoction (34.04%) being the most common. Approximately 86.45% of the recipes were plant-based, while 13.55% included mineral products. Eight administration routes were reported with oral (46.15%), anal (17.31%) and topical (17.31%) applications being the most frequent.</p> <p><em>Conclusions</em>: This study documents the use of plants in traditional veterinary medicine practiced by livestock farmers and provides important information to complement modern veterinary medicine in addressing livestock health issues.</p> <p><em>Keywords</em>: Ethnoveterinary medicine, Animal diseases, Medicinal plants, Sahel.</p> Issouf Zerbo Larba Hubert Balima Charles Lamoussa Sanou Adjima Thiombiano Copyright (c) 2025 Issouf Zerbo, Larba Hubert Balima, Charles Lamoussa Sanou, Adjima Thiombiano 2025-01-06 2025-01-06 30 1 30 Study of the local population’s perceptions of the ecosystem services provided by mangroves in Benin https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/6367 <p><em>Background:</em> Mangrove ecosystems, which provide various ecosystem services (ES), face threats from both natural and anthropogenic sources. However, the relationship between ES and their direct beneficiaries, namely local communities, is often not obvious. This study analyzed the perceptions of the local population regarding the importance of different ES categories in the mangrove region of the Bouche du Roy Community Biodiversity Conservation Area (CBCA) in Benin.</p> <p><em>Methods:</em> Surveys were conducted with 41 residents, targeting diverse socioeconomic profiles including fishermen, salt producers and ecoguards. We compared the average importance ratings of 12 ES, including provisioning, regulating and cultural ES. Then, a multiple regression analysis and a post-survey debriefing report were used to identify differences in ES importance ratings by respondent profile.</p> <p><em>Results:</em> Mean scores for food provisioning (4.37), carbon sequestration (3.83), and erosion control (3.46) were the highest, while those for water purification (1.83) and medicinal services (1.85) were the lowest. Perceptions varied by profiles and genders, except for food provisioning, water resources, and erosion control, which showed no significant differences. Respondents with a sound knowledge of mangrove ES valued them highly, underscoring the tangible benefits and growing awareness of mangrove contributions fostered by conservation efforts.</p> <p><em>Conclusions:</em> The successful protection of CBCA mangrove ecosystems depends on social acceptance, which relies on their ability to provide livelihoods, climate and coastal regulation, as well as cultural, spiritual, and touristic values. Consultation with local communities can integrate their interests in protection plans.</p> <p><em>Keywords:</em> mangroves, ecosystem services, community consultation, Benin.</p> <p><strong>Resumé</strong></p> <p><em>Contexte :</em> Les écosystèmes de mangroves, qui fournissent divers services écosystémiques (SE), sont menacés par des menaces d’origine naturelle et anthropique, nécessitant la mise en œuvre de politiques de protection. Cependant, la relation entre les SE et leurs bénéficiaires directs, à savoir les communautés locales, n’est souvent pas évidente. L’objectif de cette étude était d’analyser les perceptions de la population locale concernant l’importance des différentes catégories de SE dans la région de mangroves de l’Aire communautaire de conservation de la biodiversité (ACCB) Bouche du Roy au Bénin.</p> <p><em>Méthodes :</em> Nous avons administré des questionnaires d’enquêtes à 41 répondants résidant autour de l’ACCB, ciblant divers profils socio-économiques, notamment des pêcheurs, des producteurs de sel ou des écogardes. Nous avons comparé les scores moyens d’importance de 12 services, y compris les SE d’approvisionnement, de régulation et culturels. Ensuite, une analyse de régression multiple et un bref entretien post-enquête ont permis d’identifier les différences dans les scores d’importance selon les profils des répondants.</p> <p><em>Résultats </em>: Les scores moyens pour l’approvisionnement alimentaire (4,37), la séquestration du carbone (3,83) et le contrôle de l’érosion (3,46) étaient les plus élevés, tandis que ceux pour la purification de l’eau (1,83) et les services médicaux (1,85) étaient les plus bas. L'analyse statistique a également révélé des variations dans les perceptions des valeurs ES selon les différents profils et sexes des répondants, à l'exception de l'approvisionnement alimentaire, des ressources en eau et du contrôle de l'érosion, qui n'ont montré aucune différence significative. Les personnes interrogées ayant une bonne connaissance des SE des mangroves les ont hautement appréciées, soulignant les avantages tangibles et la prise de conscience croissante des contributions des mangroves favorisées par les efforts de conservation.</p> <p><em>Conclusions :</em> La protection réussie des écosystèmes de mangroves de l’ACCB dépend de l’acceptation sociale, qui repose sur leur capacité à fournir des moyens de subsistance, une régulation climatique et côtière, ainsi que des valeurs culturelles, spirituelles et touristiques. La consultation des communautés locales peut intégrer leurs intérêts dans les plans de protection.<em> </em></p> <p><em>Mots-clés</em> : mangroves, services écosystémiques, consultation communautaire, Bénin</p> Rose Kikpa Bio Jérôme Dupras Lynda Gagné Copyright (c) 2025 Rose Kikpa Bio, Jérôme Dupras, Lynda Gagné 2025-01-31 2025-01-31 30 1 15 Local knowledge about plants used in a high conservation value area of the Southern Yungas, Argentina https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/6352 <p><em>Background</em>: A study was conducted in the locality of El Fuerte (Santa Bárbara Department, Jujuy Province, Argentina). The objectives of this work were to (1) document the ethnospecies of plants used by local people, (2) understand their consensus for use and utilitarian versatility, (3) determine harvesting sites, and (4) assess the availability of plants used based on local perceptions.</p> <p><em>Methods:</em> Open and semi-structured interviews were conducted to 11 collaborators, along with free listing, participant observation and species identification in the field.</p> <p><em>Results:</em> A total of 124 ethnospecies were identified, of which 59% are native species, used for medicinal purposes (36%) and as food (33%). The most frequently mentioned botanical families across all species were Lamiaceae (19%), Rosaceae (16%), Fabaceae (14%), Asteraceae (12%), and Myrtaceae (9%). The species with the highest consensus for use were piquillín (<em>Condalia</em> cf<em>. buxifolia</em>) and mato (<em>Myrcianthes pungens</em>) and the most versatile of use were piquillín and molle (<em>Schinus </em>sp.). The plants were obtained from environments with both high (town) and low (forest) human intervention. Local people's perceptions of the availability of some plants indicate a decrease in terms of quantity.</p> <p><em>Conclusions</em>: This is a first approach to study local ecological knowledge in the region, providing a general overview of the useful plants employed by its inhabitants. These findings aim to strengthen biocultural conservation of forests, promote sustainable resource management and offer economic alternatives for local people.</p> <p>Keywords: useful plants, ethnoconservation, native forest, Northwestern Argentina.</p> Marina Eva Acosta Natalia Politi Luis Osvaldo Rivera Copyright (c) 2025 Marina Eva Acosta, Natalia Politi, Luis Osvaldo Rivera 2025-01-13 2025-01-13 30 1 21 Ethnobotanical Knowledge, Chemistry, and Pharmacology of the Asteraceae Family in Iran: A Review https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/6544 <p><em>Background</em>: The Asteraceae family is one of the largest families of flowering plants, known for its diverse chemical compounds with significant biological activities. The majority of Asteraceae family members have therapeutic applications and have a long history in traditional medicine. The purpose of this study is to introduce the key medicinal species of this family and their chemical compounds that are used in traditional Iranian medicine.</p> <p><em>Methods</em>: Here, we reviewed scientific published studies in major scientific databases on the medicinal and chemical properties of Asteraceae family, emphasizing the ethnobotanical uses in Iran.</p> <p><em>Results</em>: This review selected 137 key Asteraceae family plants for their medicinal uses and chemical properties. The most frequently used parts were flower (26%) and leaves (21%). The most important preparations were decoction (44%) and infusion (33%). The genus <em>Artemisia</em> participates with the highest number of species (10 species) followed by <em>Centurea</em> (9 species). The most frequently cited medicinal species were used for digestive system treatment (18%) followed by the respiratory system (10%). Among the active substances that determine the biological activity of the plant material phenolic acid derivatives, flavonoids, sesquiterpene lactones and other terpenoids, and polyacetylenes are some of the most commonly reported compounds from Asteraceae family plants.</p> <p><em>Conclusions</em>: In this research, ethnobotany knowledge about the uses of Asteraceae family plants has been collected so that it will be available to the next generations. Local people are using the plants for various purposes i.e. digestive system treatment, respiratory system, and nervous system. The precious ethnobotanical knowledge about these plants must be transferred to the younger generations. The data may be valuable in the future for pharmacological studies.</p> <p><em>Keywords</em>: Ethnobotany; Medicinal plants, Asteraceae, Phytochemistry, Plant Ecology.</p> Mohabat Nadaf Majid Halimi Khalil Abad Reza Omidipour Hamid Soorgi Ali Riahi-Madvar Elham Saleh Ghamari Copyright (c) 2025 Mohabat Nadaf, Majid Halimi Khalil Abad, Reza Omidipour, Hamid Soorgi, Ali Riahi-Madvar, Elham Saleh Ghamari 2025-01-15 2025-01-15 30 1 27 Traditional uses, bioactive compounds and pharmacological uses of Vitex doniana Sweet: A Review https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/6578 <p><em>Background</em>: Medicinal plants have been extensively utilized and esteemed since ancient times for their multifaceted benefits. Owing to their Ethnopharmacological attributes, they become a vital reservoir for managing and averting ailments such as inflammation, coronary disease and cancer. Recently, <em>Vitex doniana</em> has garnered considerable interest for its possible therapeutic properties. The aim of the study is to provide a thorough and up-to-date review of published collection regarding the therapeutic properties, phytochemical composition, and pharmacognosy of <em>V. doniana. </em></p> <p><em>Methods</em>: Research articles were searched on Elsevier, Springer, Google Scholar, Taylor &amp; Francis, PubMed, and Scopus using the keywords <em>V. doniana</em>, chemical composition, antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-diabetic, anticancer, and other relevant terms.</p> <p><em>Results</em>: <em>Vitex doniana</em> was used in traditional medicine as a remedy for several health conditions including hypertension, paralysis, epilepsy, convulsions, spasm, sleeplessness, depression, and leprosy. Bioactive study revealed the presence of 483 compounds including hydroxycinnamic acid, saponin, allicin, flavonoids, terpenoid, aldehydes, amino acids, alkynes, alkane, hydrocarbon, phenethylamines, alcohol, and others. Most of these bioactive studies have focused on leaves. The medicinal and pharmacological capabilities have been substantiated by a diverse array of investigations, particularly highlighting its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antibacterial, anti-diabetic, anti-epileptic, blood pressure regulating, hepatoprotective, anticancer, and anesthetic actions.</p> <p><em>Conclusions</em>: It is crucial to ascertain its safe dosage and elucidate its mode of action. This offers potential for wider perceptions and advancement for a foundation for clinical investigations. This may garner attention for its efficacy as a supplement that promotes health and its potential for the development of novel herbal products.</p> <p><em>Keywords</em>: Antioxidant, Africa, fruits, medicinal, plants, malaria, diabetes, and intestinal aliments, wounds, skin diseases, toothache fever, diarrhea and respiratory illnesses</p> Abdulrahman Dogara Mahmoud Sawsan S. Al-Rawi Harmand A. Hama Copyright (c) 2025 Abdulrahman Dogara Mahmoud, Sawsan S. Al-Rawi, Harmand A. Hama 2025-01-28 2025-01-28 30 1 130 Ethnomedicinal plants used for gastro-intestinal disorders (GIDs) by the tribal communities of Arunachal Pradesh (Eastern Himalayas), India: A comprehensive review https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/5855 <p><em>Background:</em> Medicinal plants used for treating Gastro-intestinal disorders (GIDs) by tribal communities of Arunachal Pradesh have a long history. This study aimed to compile the ethnomedicinal plants for GIDs with special reference to pharmacological activities and preclinical test of plants with high use value. This review provides baseline data for analysis of phytochemicals, bioactive compounds, and further research in the field of herbal drug discoveries.</p> <p><em> </em><em>Methods:</em> For collection of data, specific keywords such as “Arunachal Pradesh”, “ethnomedicine”, “ethnobotany”, “Eastern Himalayas” etc. were searched as single-word or in different combination in online databases (Science Direct, PubMed, Web of Science, iMedPub, Google Scholar, Scopus, etc.).</p> <p><em>Results</em><em>:</em> 256 plant species of 83 families were reported for GIDs. Dominant habit was herb (41%), Trees (27%), Shrubs (17%), Climbers and Undershrubs (7% each). Among the 256 species, plants with high use reports (UR) in treatment of various GIDs are <em>Paederia foetida </em>(20), <em>Centella asiatica </em>(15), <em>Houttuynia cordata </em>(14)<em>, Psidium guajava </em>(10), <em>Begonia roxburghii</em> (8),<em> Coptis teeta </em>(8), <em>Dillenia indica </em>(7), <em>Litsea cubeba </em>(6), <em>Solanum nigrum </em>(6) and <em>Allium hookeri</em> (5). The highest value of Informant consensus factor was reported for Stomach Inflammation/Gasatritis (0.24) while least for stomach ulcer/peptic ulcer. Leaves (27.49%) are the common plant part under use followed by fruit 19.64 %, root 9.67%, shoot 7.85% stem bark 6.65%, rhizome 6.34%, whole plant 6.04%, stem 4.83%, seed 3.63%, and other parts.</p> <p><em>Conclusions</em>: The overall review study suggests tribes of this region are using diverse medicinal plants/parts as herbal medicine for different GIDs.</p> <p><em>Key words:</em> Ethnobotany; Tribal community; Gastrointestinal; Eastern Himalayas; Use value</p> Yashpal Bhardwaj Birina Bhuyan Yugandhar Pulicherla Shiddamallayya Nagayya Srinivasulu Cheemanapalli Mumtam Taboh Taba Yehi Copyright (c) 2025 Yashpal Bhardwaj, Birina Bhuyan, Yugandhar Pulicherla, Shiddamallayya Nagayya, Srinivasulu Cheemanapalli, Mumtam Taboh, Taba Yehi 2025-01-06 2025-01-06 30 1 39 The guitar of Baixo Alentejo (Portugal) - a journey into botanical traditions https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/6749 <p>In Baixo Alentejo, a historic province in southern Portugal, musical traditions are deeply intertwined with nature, particularly through a local chordophone known as the <em>campaniça </em>guitar, crafted from both exotic and native Portuguese woods. This distinctive guitar, commonly played at rural festivals to provide harmony and rhythm to improvised songs, represents a centuries-old tradition that connects Portuguese culture with plant resources. Although the <em>campaniça</em> faced a decline in popularity towards the end of the 20th century, a revivalist movement played a crucial role in ensuring its survival. More recently, cultural centers in Castro Verde and Odemira have been established to safeguard this unique musical heritage, inspiring future generations to preserve and innovate within the tradition.</p> <p><em>Keywords</em>: <em>campaniça</em> guitar, Baixo Alentejo, traditional music, ethnomusicology, ethnobotanical memory.</p> Ana Paula Figueira Luis Carvalho Víctor Figueira Francisca Maria Fernandes Maria de Fátima Nunes Copyright (c) 2025 Luis Carvalho, Ana Paula Figueira, Francisca Maria Fernandes, Maria de Fátima Nunes, Víctor Figueira 2025-01-27 2025-01-27 30 1 11 A botanical perspective on the Portuguese crown jewels – the golden fleece insignia https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/6663 <p>The Royal Treasury Museum (Lisbon) houses one of the richest collections of jewels in Europe and its collection of circa one thousand pieces, includes many that depict stylized plants. Studying them provides us with an insight into the symbolic use of plants in the societies that created them and reveals their links with the classical symbolic codes. A very precious jewel in the collection is the insignia of the Order of the Golden Fleece, made in the early years of the 19th century, with 1,741 diamonds (more than 300 carats), 190 rubies and one sapphire, arranged in the shape of palm leaves, laurel branches and oak fruits, whose symbolism alludes, not only the Portuguese Royalty, but to the Greco-Roman civilization and to the Christian doctrine.</p> Luis Carvalho Margarida Barros Mariana Fernandes Francisca Maria Fernandes Copyright (c) 2025 Luis Carvalho, Margarida Barros, Mariana Fernandes, Francisca Maria Fernandes 2025-01-06 2025-01-06 30 1 13 Ethnobotany Reserarch and Applications: Required standards for manuscripts based on field research https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/6756 <p>Ethnobotany Research and Applications (ERA), established in 2003, has consistently adhered to its mission of providing free, open-access, and rapidly published research materials worldwide. Over more than 20 years, ERA has grown significantly, publishing nearly 30 volumes and expanding its scope to include ethnobiology, ethnomycology and ethnozoology. Initially hosted at the University of Hawaii, it is now managed by Ilia State University in Georgia and indexed in Scopus and Crossref. With a CiteScore of 3.4 and an acceptance rate between 13-18%, the journal has achieved high academic standing in various fields. Submissions have quadrupled over the last years, with improved publication timelines, but many manuscripts need to be rejected due to failure to follow author guidelines, poor formatting, language issues, etc.</p> <p>ERA faces recurring issues in submissions, including exaggerated claims about medicinal plant studies, misuse of statistical methods, and confusion between "use" and "knowledge." Many authors also neglect core botanical requirements such as proper species identification and vouchering, undermining reproducibility. The journal remains committed to its free and open-access model, supported by Ilia State University, an unpaid editorial team, and voluntary reviewers. Authors and readers are urged to participate in the peer-review process to sustain ERA's operations and uphold its standards of excellence.</p> <p>Ethnobotany and ethnopharmacology provide invaluable insights into the relationships between plants and human cultures, especially regarding traditional knowledge, medicinal practices, and sustainable resource use. The Ethnobotany Research and Application Journal embraces this interdisciplinary field, promoting high-quality submissions that meet methodological rigor and align with global ethical standards.</p> <p>The editorial team recognizes that the volume of submissions often exceeds the journal's publication capacity. Therefore, ensuring adherence to specific methodological and ethical standards is critical for manuscript acceptance. This article serves as a guideline for authors to align their submissions with these requirements. Drawing inspiration from similar standards established in other journals, this document outlines essential criteria for manuscripts focusing on field-based ethnobotanical research</p> Cheikh Yebouk Copyright (c) 2025 Cheikh Yebouk 2025-02-04 2025-02-04 30 1 3 Ethnobotany: From the Traditional to Ethnopharmacology - Book Review https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/6741 <p><em>As highlighted in</em> <em>Ethnobotany: From the Traditional to Ethnopharmacology</em>, edited by José L. Martinez, Alfred Maroyi, and Marcelo L. Wagner (2023), this book presents the latest research on the potential of plants commonly used in traditional medicine and their <em>pharmacological</em> applications. The need for new and alternative treatments arises from the inefficacy of some current therapies for various diseases. This compilation provides valuable insights for researchers aiming to develop novel medications.</p> Ahmad Reza Maulana Reza Merinah Meri Ria Puspitaningrum Ria Copyright (c) 2025 Ahmad Reza Maulana Reza, Merinah Meri, Ria Puspitaningrum Ria 2025-01-27 2025-01-27 30 1 3 Médecine et magie dans le Sud-Est de Madagascar - a book review https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/6710 <p><strong>Médecine et magie dans le Sud-Est de Madagascar - Les devins-guérisseurs et lúsage des plantes</strong>. Philippe Beaujard. Ediciones SÉPIA, Paris2024. 648 pp. Price: € 40.-, ISBN 979-10-334-0605-1, French.</p> Rainer W Bussmann Copyright (c) 2025 Rainer W Bussmann 2025-01-08 2025-01-08 30 1 2 Review and conservation priority of medicinal plants in riverside communities in the Amazon estuary, Pará, Brazil https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/6581 <p><em>Background</em>: The use of medicinal plants (MP) is a very common practice among Amazonian communities. Traditional knowledge is a good source of information for planning strategies for the conservation of MP. Here, we identify medicinal species to be prioritized for conservation in communities of riverside dwellers along the Pará River and Marajó Bay, in the Amazon estuary.</p> <p><em>Methods</em>: We searched the scientific literature of the last 35 years (1985 to 2020) on the use and knowledge of these resources and aspects related to medicinal versatility, forms of collection, parts used, anthropic pressure and origin (cultivation/extractivism) to estimate the indices of Relative Importance (RI), Sensitivity (SI) and Importance Value (IVI) in order to evaluate the priority species for conservation actions.</p> <p><em>Results</em>: A total of 343 MP was recorded, distributed in 84 botanical families, with Fabaceae standing out. <em>Socratea exorrhiza </em>(<strong>paxiúba</strong>)<em>, </em>a typical floodplain species<em>, </em>stood out as the most vulnerable to anthropogenic collection and pressure (SI = 0.99). <em>Carapa guianensis</em> (<strong>castanha-do-Pará/Brazil nut</strong>) stood out with great versatility regarding its uses (RI = 1.88) and higher importance value (IVI = 2.85).</p> <p><em>Conclusions</em>: Another 33 species can be considered high priority for conservation in the communities surveyed. Recommendations were suggested for local strategies for sustainable use and management.</p> <p><em>Keywords</em>: Ethnobotany, Medicinal species, Brazilian Amazon, Amazonian Floodplain Forest, Local Knowledge.</p> <p><strong>Resumo</strong><br />Contexto: O uso de plantas medicinais (PM) é uma prática muito comum entre as comunidades amazônicas. O conhecimento tradicional é uma boa fonte de informação para o planejamento de estratégias de conservação de MP. Aqui, identificamos espécies medicinais a serem priorizadas para conservação em comunidades de moradores ribeirinhos ao longo do Rio Pará e da Baía de Marajó, no estuário do Amazonas.</p> <p>Métodos: Foi realizada busca na literatura científica dos últimos 35 anos (1985 a 2020) sobre o uso e conhecimento desses recursos e aspectos relacionados à versatilidade medicinal, formas de coleta, partes utilizadas, pressão antrópica e origem (cultivo/extrativismo) para estimar os índices de Importância Relativa (IR), Sensibilidade (IS) e Valor de Importância (IVI) para avaliar as espécies prioritárias para ações de conservação.</p> <p>Resultados: Foram registrados 343 PM, distribuídos em 84 famílias botânicas, com destaque para Fabaceae. Socratea exorrhiza (paxiúba), espécie típica de várzea, destacou-se como a mais vulnerável à coleta e pressão antrópica (IS = 0,99). Carapa guianensis (castanha-do-Pará/castanha-do-brasil) destacou-se pela grande versatilidade quanto aos usos (RI = 1,88) e maior valor de importância (IVI = 2,85).</p> <p>Conclusões: Outras 33 espécies podem ser consideradas de alta prioridade para conservação nas comunidades pesquisadas. Foram sugeridas recomendações para estratégias locais de uso e gestão sustentáveis.</p> <p>Palavras-chave: Etnobotânica, Espécies medicinais, Amazônia brasileira, Floresta de várzea amazônica, Conhecimento local.</p> Wendel Patrick Gomes Marques Pedro Glécio Costa Lima Márlia Regina Coelho-Ferreira Copyright (c) 2025 Wendel Patrick Gomes Marques, Pedro Glécio Costa Lima, Márlia Coelho-Ferreira 2025-02-04 2025-02-04 30 1 37