Ethnobotany Research and Applications

An ethnobotanical study of wild plant resources used among locals of high mountainous regions of Swat Valley, Pakistan

Shujat Ali, Sayed Afzal Shah, Salahud Din — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Local communities in Swat District, Pakistan, possess rich ethnobotanical knowledge of plant resources, developed through long-term interaction with their mountainous environment. This study aimed to document ethnobotanical practices, evaluate socio-cultural factors influencing knowledge retention and transmission, and identify plant species of high medicinal and cultural significance.

Methods: Data were collected between 2018 and 2022 from 300 informants aged 20–90 years across seven Tehsils using structured and semi-structured interviews and group discussions. Quantitative indices including Use Value (UV), Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), Fidelity Level (FL), and Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) were applied to assess plant significance. Statistical analyses such as chi-square tests, correlation analysis, and one-way ANOVA examined relationships between knowledge and socio-demographic variables.

Results: The present study documented 234 plant species from 74 families. Dominant families were Poaceae (20%), Rosaceae (9%), Fabaceae (7%), Asteraceae (5%), and Brassicaceae (3%). Plants were mainly used for fodder (52%), medicine (42%), and fuelwood (25%). Leaves (42%) and fruits (19%) were the most utilized parts. Taxus wallichiana ranked highest (RFC = 0.60, UV = 0.90, FL = 100%), followed by Punica granatum and Ricinus communis. ICF values (0.92–0.98) indicated strong informant consensus. Knowledge varied significantly with gender, age, occupation, and ethnicity (p < 0.001), with a strong positive correlation between age and traditional knowledge (ρ = 0.60, p < 0.001).

Conclusions: Indigenous knowledge remains vital for healthcare and livelihoods but faces threats from modernization. Community-based conservation is essential to protect biodiversity and ethnobotanical heritage.

Keywords: Ethnobotany, Indigenous knowledge, Traditional medicine, Plant-use patterns, High-altitude flora, Swat Valley, Pakistan, Socio-cultural influences, Conservation strategies, Use Value, Relative Frequency of Citation, Medicinal plants, Sustainable utilization

Ethnobotanical knowledge and medicinal plant use in Khenchela Province (Northeastern Algeria)

Hanane Sraoui, Amel Lazli, Guenadil Faouzi, Karim Loucif, Imane Gherib — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Alongside the development of modern healthcare systems, medicinal plants continue to play an important role in local therapeutic practices. Their sustained and growing use is largely associated with their therapeutic value and the relatively low risk of undesirable effects. In this context, the documentation of traditional plant-based knowledge is essential to prevent its gradual disappearance and to ensure its continuity over time.

Methods: This ethnobotanical study was conducted to document the medicinal plant species used by inhabitants of the Khenchela region and to record their associated therapeutic uses. Data collection was carried out through structured interviews using 488 questionnaires.

Results: The study recorded 85 medicinal plant species belonging to 39 botanical families. The most cited species was Artemisia herba-alba (RFC = 0.096). Asteraceae was the most represented family (15%), followed by Lamiaceae (14%) and Apiaceae (8%). Leaves were the most frequently used plant part (36%), while decoction was the dominant method of preparation (38%). The majority of reported uses targeted digestive disorders (21%), followed by respiratory and dermatological diseases (12% each).

Conclusions: By providing detailed insight into local medicinal plant practices, this study contributes to the preservation of ethnobotanical knowledge and offers a reliable reference framework for future research in phytochemistry and pharmacology.

Keywords: Ethnobotanical Surveys; Khenchela; Medicinal Plants; Methods of Preparation; Uses.

Ethnobotanical knowledge of the Nyah Kur: An ethnic group preserving the language of the Dvaravati Period

Wed, 20 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: The Nyah Kur are an ethnic minority in northeastern Thailand widely recognized as descendants of ancient Mon populations associated with the Dvaravati period. Despite their rich cultural heritage and long-standing relationship with local plant resources, systematic ethnobotanical documentation of Nyah Kur plant knowledge remains limited. This study aims to document the diversity of plants used by the Nyah Kur and to examine how these plant resources are integrated into subsistence practices, traditional knowledge systems, and cultural activities.

Methods: Ethnobotanical fieldwork was conducted in 2023-2024 in two Nyah Kur villages in Thep Sathit district, Chaiyaphum province, Thailand. Data were collected from ten key informants aged 45-80 years using free-listing, semi-structured interviews, group discussions, and the walk-in-the-wood method. Plant specimens were collected, identified using the Flora of Thailand, and deposited in the Herbarium of the Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden (QBG). Plant uses were classified following the Economic Botany Data Collection Standard.

Results: A total of 323 plant species belonging to 90 families were recorded. These plants served diverse functions within the Nyah Kur livelihood system, including food (46%), materials (26%), medicines (16%), fuels (5%), social uses (5%), environmental uses (<1%), invertebrate poisons (1%), and vertebrate poisons (<1%). Leaves (24%), infructescences (21%), and stems (19%) were the most frequently used plant parts. Plants play significant cultural roles in traditional foods such as “Pana hla chun” and “Drak Chul”, and in ceremonial practices including the “Hae Ho Dok Phueng” ritual during the Songkran festival.

Conclusions: The Nyah Kur possess extensive traditional ecological knowledge reflected in the diverse use of local plant resources. Documenting this knowledge contributes to the preservation of cultural heritage and provides valuable insights for biodiversity conservation and sustainable resource management in northeastern Thailand.

Keywords: Chao Bon; Plant use diversity; Chaiyaphum province; Local knowledge; Mon-Khmer linguistic group

Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used for Rheumatoid Arthritis treatment in the Sikkim Himalaya, India

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that significantly impairs quality of life and currently lacks fully effective conventional treatments without side effects. Traditional medicinal plants offer promising alternative or complementary therapeutic options, particularly among indigenous populations with rich ethnobotanical knowledge.

Methods: This ethnobotanical study documents the use of medicinal plants for RA management by inhabitants of the Sikkim Himalaya, India, an ecologically diverse and culturally unique region. Data were collected through semi-structured questionnaires administered to 87 informants, including traditional healers and knowledgeable villagers across all four districts of Sikkim, encompassing a broad altitudinal gradient.

Results: A total of 33 plant species representing 24 families and 28 genera were identified as important for RA treatment. Notably, Equisetum diffusum exhibited the highest relative frequency of citation (RFC = 0.138), underscoring its therapeutic significance in this region. The predominant plant parts utilized were rhizomes and barks, with traditional remedies most commonly administered topically to affected joints, supplemented by oral applications in selected cases. Ethnomedicinal uses align with existing pharmacological evidence demonstrating anti-arthritic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties of several documented species.

Conclusions: This study contributes valuable baseline data for future pharmacological validation, conservation policymaking, and integration of traditional knowledge into sustainable RA management strategies.

Keywords: Ethno-medicine, Ethno-botanical survey, Rheumatoid arthritis, Sikkim Himalaya, Traditional medicine

Ethnobotanical investigation of antidiabetic medicinal plants in Khenchela Province, Northeastern Algeria

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Diabetes mellitus represents a major global health burden, and while medicinal plants are widely used for its management in Algeria, ethnobotanical knowledge in Khenchela Province remains poorly documented; this study aimed to inventory antidiabetic plants and quantitatively document associated traditional knowledge in this region.

Methods: An ethnobotanical survey conducted in Khenchela Province (February–May 2023) among 116 purposively and snowball-sampled informants aged 30–70 years collected data on plant use and sociodemographic, analyzed via Frequency of Citation, Relative Frequency of Citation, and Family importance value indices, with Jaccard's index comparing flora to 13 regional studies.

Results: A total of 44 antidiabetic species belonging to 25 families were documented, with Asteraceae and Lamiaceae being the most represented families. Women (65.5%) and older informants (68.1% aged > 50 years) were the main holders of traditional knowledge. Among the documented species, 12 (27.3%) were also identified as edible plants commonly consumed as food or vegetables. Leaves were the most frequently used plant part (34.6%), followed by aerial parts and seeds, while infusion (53.33%) and decoction (23.33%) predominated among preparation methods. Most remedies targeted type 2 diabetes (86%) for curative purposes (93.33%). Artemisia herba-alba (RFC = 0.096) and Salvia rosmarinus (RFC = 0.078) showed the highest citation frequencies. Jaccard similarity indices ranged from 0.087 to 0.279, with the highest similarity observed with Bejaia province, Algeria (27.9%).

Conclusion: This study confirms that phytotherapy remains central to diabetes management in Khenchela, with women and the elderly holding a rich but vulnerable antidiabetic knowledge base. Moderate similarity with other Maghrebian pharmacopoeias reflects shared heritage and regional adaptations, providing a prioritized species list for future pharmacological evaluation.

Keywords: Diabetes mellitus; Ethnobotany; Traditional medicine; Algeria; Khenchela; Antidiabetic plants; Artemisia herba-alba; Salvia rosmarinus

Ethnobotanical documentation and quantitative analysis of medicinal plants used in traditional rheumatic diseases treatment in the Setif Region, northeastern Algeria

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: This ethnobotanical study documents and analyzes traditional medicinal knowledge in the Setif region of northestern Algeria.

Methods: Data were collected from 310 informants, including herbalists, using semi-structured interviews. Quantitative ethnobotanical indices, frequency citation (FC), the use value of species (UVs), the fidelity level (FL), informant consensus factor (ICF), informant agreement ratio (IAR), were applied to assess the cultural importance and reliability of recorded species.

Results: The analysis identified 67 medicinal plant species belonging to 37 botanical families, among which Lamiaceae were the most represented. Seeds are the most used parts (31%) while majority of the preparations were prepared as powder, poultice, and maceration (29%, 18%, and 15%, respectively). Lepidium sativum L. and Zingiber officinale Roscoe were the most frequently cited plants, with citation frequencies of 14% and 12%, respectively, and a fidelity level of 100%. The calculated IAR values revealed that 18 species out of 67 have maximum values equal to 1.The ICF for rheumatic diseases treated by the local population showed a maximum value of 0.916; this category of diseases was treated with all the species identified in the surveys (67 species).

Conclusions: The obtained results represent a source of information concerning the medicinal flora of the region and could eventually constitute a database for further investigations aiming at inventorying all the medicinal flora of all regions of Algeria and exploring their composition.

Keywords: Rheumatic diseases; Ethnobotanical study; Medicinal plants; Quantitative analysis; Algeria.

Indigenous medicinal plant knowledge of the Santal ethnic group in Rajshahi and Chapainawabganj Districts of Bangladesh

Najmun Naher, Bholanath Mondal, Mritunjoy Mojumder, Shahida Taher — Thu, 07 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: The Santal community is one of the largest indigenous groups in Bangladesh and has a long history of using plants to treat different illnesses. The main objective of the study was to record the medicinal plants used by the Santal people of the Rajshahi and Chapainawabganj districts of Bangladesh. Systemic documentation aims to preserve indigenous knowledge and support health promotion and disease prevention.

Methods: Information was collected through interviews with local healers and community members.

Results: In total, 61 plant species from 39 families were identified to cure 49 diseases. Leaves were found to be most frequently used part owing to 54.38%, followed by roots, barks, stems, fruits, and flowers. These plants are used to treat common problems like diarrhea dysentery, stomach pain, jaundice, cold and cough, skin infections, and women’s health issues. The study shows that the Santal people have valuable knowledge about local plants.

Conclusions: However, this traditional knowledge is slowly disappearing because of modern lifestyle changes and a lack of interest among younger people. This research highlights the importance of protecting both the plants and the traditional knowledge for future generations.

Keywords: Santal community, ethnomedicinal plants, traditional knowledge, Rajshahi, Chapainawabganj

Ethnomedicinal plants used by indigenous communities in Malakand District, Northern Pakistan

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Plants have been an integral part of human history as a source of traditional medicines. In spite of their extensive usage, ethnomedicinal plants (EMPs) of Malakand District, which is well-known for its floristic diversity, has yet to be explored. This research documented the EMPs employed by local communities to conserve indigenous knowledge and recognize plant species having therapeutic values.

Methods: Field surveys were carried out at different locations of District Malakand during the summer and spring seasons of 2018-2019. Data on the EMPs were collected through interviews with 220 local informants using semi-structured questionnaires and open group discussion. Different ethnobotanical indices like informant consensus factor (ICF), fidelity level (FL), relative frequency of citation (RFC), consensus index (CI) and use values (UVs) were used for quantitative analysis of ethnomedicinal data.

Results: In this study, 74 ethnomedicinal plant species, representing 65 genera and 42 families were reported. The predominant plant families included Fabaceae, Lamiaceae, Asteraceae, Berberidaceae, Apocynaceae, and Solanaceae. Based on the growth habits, herbs were the frequently used life form representing 38 species. Most of the EMPs were employed in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders (38 species), skin disorders (23 species), and as analgesics (22 species). Leaves were the frequently used part, with pastes being the usual preparation method and oral route being the principal method of administration. The highest ICF values were found for wounds/cuts (0.65) and diabetes (0.63). Mentha longifolia and Justicia adhatoda had the highest FL values, while Dodonaea viscosa, Berberis lycium, and Calotropis procera exhibited the highest values for RFC, CI, and UV.

Conclusions: The findings highlight a diverse ethnomedicinal heritage of Malakand and offers significant pharmacological potential of EMPs for future studies.

Keywords: Medicinal flora; indigenous uses; quantitative indices; Malakand; Pakistan

Traditional medicinal plant knowledge and biocultural relevance in a rural community of Veracruz, Mexico

Sat, 30 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Traditional medicinal plant knowledge is a key component of biocultural heritage and remains central to primary health care in many rural communities. Ongoing social and environmental changes underscore the urgency of documenting and analyzing this knowledge.

Methods: We documented and quantitatively assessed the diversity, cultural relevance, and therapeutic structure of medicinal plants used in a rural community of central Veracruz, Mexico. Semi-structured surveys were applied to 150 adult residents selected through snowball sampling. Data on health conditions, plant uses, plant parts, preparation methods, and species origin were recorded. Use value (UV), informant consensus factor (ICF), and principal component analysis (PCA) were employed to evaluate cultural importance and therapeutic associations. A complementary literature-based toxicological screening was conducted.

Results: Forty medicinal plant species were recorded. Use reports were concentrated in a limited group of culturally salient species, with Artemisia absinthium (UV = 0.20), Justicia spicigera (UV = 0.17), and Psidium guajava (UV = 0.13) showing the highest cultural relevance. Digestive and respiratory conditions represented the most prominent therapeutic domains. PCA revealed both generalist use patterns and selective associations at the family level. Toxicological screening identified documented risks in six species, primarily dose- or preparation-dependent.

Conclusions: The medicinal system documented is structured, socially shared, and centered on culturally salient species. Integrating quantitative ethnobotanical metrics with safety considerations provides a baseline for future pharmacological research and biocultural conservation strategies.

Keywords: Ethnobotany; Traditional knowledge; Biocultural conservation.

Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used to treat inflammatory conditions in the Sétif Region (Algeria)

Sun, 10 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Despite significant advances in the pharmaceutical industry, traditional herbal medicine remains a major therapeutic resource in many regions. In Algeria’s Sétif province, medicinal plants are widely used to treat inflammatory diseases. However, specific ethnobotanical knowledge regarding inflammatory conditions in this high-plateau region remains under-documented.

Methods: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted using a structured questionnaire administered to 107 informants, including herbalists, patients, and regular users of medicinal plants. Data were collected on sociodemographic characteristics, plant species, plant parts used, preparation methods, and treated diseases. Ethnobotanical indices (Relative Frequency of Citation, Family Importance Value, and Informant Consensus Factor) were calculated, and Correspondence Analysis was performed.

Results: A total of 26 medicinal plants from 14 families were documented. Women comprised most users (68.22 %), with the 20–30 years age group most represented (43.9%). Leaves were the most used plant part (34.2%), infusion the predominant preparation method (56.41%), and oral administration the most common route (62.94%). Respiratory disorders were the most frequently treated (24.29%). Origanum vulgare L. ssp. glandulosum had the highest RFC (0.224), while Zingiberaceae exhibited the highest Family Importance Value (FIV = 0.175). The highest ICF was recorded for musculoskeletal conditions (0.878), followed by neurological (0.857) and infectious (0.821) disorders.

Conclusions: This study highlights the enduring importance of herbal medicine in the Sétif region and reveals a rich diversity of plants used for inflammatory conditions. High consensus for musculoskeletal and neurological disorders reflects well-established ethnomedical knowledge. Highly cited species warrant phytochemical and pharmacological validation, providing a baseline for future research and underscoring the need for sustainable harvesting.

Keywords: Ethnobotanical survey, inflammatory diseases, Medicinal plants, Sétif region, Algeria.

Plants in Caucasian ritual bread traditions: An ethnobotanical and etymological study

Lela Chotalishvili, Nargiz Akhvlediani — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: The Caucasus maintains rich ethnobotanical traditions where plants play central roles in religious and ritual practices. In recent decades, however, much of this traditional knowledge has been lost. While medicinal and food plants have been studied, the ritual significance of plants in food preparation and etymological connections between vernacular plant names and ancient religious practices remain unexplored. This study examines plant use in ritual bread traditions across three Caucasian regions.

Methods: The research is based on semi-structured interviews and participant observation conducted in 2024-2025 in three geographical regions of the Caucasus: Svaneti, the Pankisi Gorge, and the Adjara-Kobuleti region. Plants mentioned by informants were identified in collaboration with local populations, linguists, and botanical experts. Etymological analysis was conducted using comparative-linguistic methods and published etymological dictionaries.

Results: Three ritual bread traditions were documented: Svan kut-lemzir, Kist ch'aabilg, and Adjaran sisamiani khach'ap'uri. In these traditions, plants serve not only as culinary ingredients for fermentation and aromatization but also as essential ritual elements. The study focuses on three plants − kut-k'vakh (Plantago major L., Plantago lanceolata L.), kho (Humulus lupulus L.), and sisami (Nigella sativa L.) − revealing how botanical knowledge, linguistic terms, and ritual practice are connected. Their vernacular names reflect Proto-Iranian, pre-Greek, and Kartvelian roots associated with ancient religious practices.

Conclusions: Ritual bread-baking traditions remain vibrant − families continue to pass down both the practical techniques and the ritual knowledge. Plant names carry cultural memory of pre-Christian practices and cross-cultural contact. Documenting these traditions helps preserve cultural heritage and the diversity of local plant uses. Future research should expand to other Caucasian regions.

Keywords: Caucasus, ethnobotany, ritual bread, traditional knowledge, plant name etymology.

From mapping to modeling: Spatial statistics in ethnobotanical research

Sun, 24 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Ethnobotany is a critical repository of biocultural knowledge, essential for understanding human-environment interactions. While traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) increasingly guides advanced scientific domains, like providing blueprints for sustainable nano-materials, its integration into spatial and statistical analytics remains fragmented. Historically

reliant on qualitative ethnography, this methodological gap limits the discipline’s capacity to support predictive conservation, spatial decision-making, and policy design under accelerating environmental change.

Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted using the Scopus database, strictly following the PRISMA protocol. A screening of 336 initial records evaluated peer-reviewed articles at the intersection of indigenous knowledge, geographic information systems (GIS), and spatial statistics. Data were extracted to identify publication trends, methodological classifications, and research gaps.

Results: The screening yielded 101 eligible articles. The synthesis reveals a clear dominance of GIS applications focused on descriptive cartography (93 papers). Conversely, advanced spatial statistical tools, such as Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR), geographic detectors, and predictive modeling, are scarce and were successfully applied in only 8 studies. This exposes an analytical deficit and a lack of predictive socio-spatial modeling in current literature.

Conclusions: This study bridges ethnobotanical knowledge systems with spatial analytical frameworks. Drawing parallels from successful adoptions in material sciences and urban sustainability, we propose a transition from descriptive mapping to inferential analytics. A future research agenda leveraging Geospatial Artificial Intelligence (GeoAI) is outlined to improve the statistical rigor of ethnobotany and provide data-driven support for biocultural conservation.

Keywords: Ethnobotany; Indigenous Knowledge; Spatial Analysis; Spatial Statistics; Systematic Literature Review; GeoAI

Ethnomedicinal uses of fauna in the Lesser Himalayan Region of Pakistan

Sat, 30 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Many wild animal species have been used in medicine worldwide since the origin of human beings, and these folklore medicinal uses are still present. Current survey research was planned to examine wildlife-based folklore medication used by the communities of the Lesser Himalayan region of Pakistan.

Methods: Field surveys were conducted from 2017 to 2020 at various sites in the Lesser Himalayan region of Pakistan. Data were collected through conversations with individual respondents and groups of native individuals.

Results: The ethnopharmacological applications of 48 species of wild animals were documented. Fat, meat, bones, brain, hair, musk gland, and whole body were utilized as body parts. Out of the total, 18 species were documented for the first time. The house sparrow (Passer domesticus) and russet sparrow (P. cinnamomeus) were reported as the most frequently utilized species for paralysis, with a frequency count (FC) of 21 from the study area. Among the documented wildlife taxa, the highest use values (UVs) of 1.0 were calculated for Laudakia agrorensis, Coturnix coturnix, Columba livia, C. hodgsonii, Upupa epops, Passer domesticus, and P. cinnamomeus from the Lesser Himalayan Region of Pakistan.

Conclusions: This study is the first to explore the medicinal benefits of wild animals in the study area. Furthermore, the use of 44 animal species has a zero similarity index; these species have no previous similar disease treatment. Our findings offer important baseline data that can be used to conserve and preserve animal biodiversity in the study area.

Keywords: Insects, Wildlife, Communities, Lesser Himalayan Region, Folklores

Conservation of Tupistra (Tupistra nutans Wall. ex Lindl and T. wattii (C.B. Clarke) Hook.f.) aids its ecology and ethnobotany in Darla, Chhukha, Bhutan

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Tupistra nutans Wall. ex Lindl and T. wattii (C.B. Clarke) Hook.f. are useful species grown wild in Bhutan. Former has now been hailed as a climate-smart species as it grows elsewhere in transition and ruderal areas, needs little effort in cultivation, and has historically been used in rural livelihood. T. nutans have been extensively cultivated, collected, and used to address the current changes, urging timely documentation and conservation.

Methods: Ethnomedicinal plants and the ethnobotany and ecology of T. nutans were assessed following interviews with 78 household members inhabiting Darla, Chhukha, Bhutan.

Results: A linear relationship was observed between planting space and T. nutans inflorescence per year, as Pearson’s bivariate correlation coefficient showed significant values (r = 0.48, p< 0.012). The species is now increasingly cultivated and sustainably managed in forests, resulting in growing uses for its parts in the household economy and primary health care, and supporting the theory of availability. Almost all parts (inflorescence, leaf, root, seed) of T. nutans are useful for ethnomedicine. A total of 83.33% of the population (n = 65) used T. nutans, followed by 59 used Swertia chirayita (Roxb.) Karsten and Bergenia ciliata (Haw.) Sternb.

Conclusions: Use value shows that T. nutans can be used as a source of nutrition and a future constituent of traditional medicine. Continued research on commercial cultivation and sustainable utilization of T. nutans should be sustained, as it is considered a potential climate-smart crop to benefit the larger society.

Keywords: Tupistra nutans, ethnomedicinal plant, food, cultivation, climate-smart, Bhutan.

Iranian herbal distillates (Hydrosols): From traditional beverages to modern industrial applications

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Iranian herbal distillates are traditional aqueous products of hydro-distillation with centuries of use in Persian medicine, culinary practices, and cultural rituals. They are documented in historical texts such as those by Avicenna and remain widely employed as beverages, folk remedies, and flavoring agents. This study aims to comprehensively document the botanical sources, traditional uses, production methods, and industrial potential of Iranian hydrosols through an integrated approach combining systematic literature review and extensive ethnobotanical fieldwork.

Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted across Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Field surveys were carried out between September 2023 and September 2025, including visits to three industrial distilleries in Shiraz and Kashan, and surveys of 35 herbal shops and traditional markets across five Iranian cities. Data on plant species, production practices, uses, and market status were collected, taxonomically verified, and analyzed using R.

Results: Fifty-three plant species from 28 families were documented, with Lamiaceae, Asteraceae, and Apiaceae being the most represented. Aerial parts were the most frequently used plant material. The most commonly reported bioactivities included antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. Industrial potential was highest in the sectors of functional beverages, flavoring agents, and cosmetics.

Conclusions: Iranian herbal distillates represent a diverse and culturally significant resource with considerable potential for applications in functional foods, cosmetics, and phytopharmaceuticals. To support industrial scale-up, future efforts should focus on production standardization, clinical validation of bioactivities, and sustainable sourcing practices.

Keywords: Ethnobotany, Hydrosols, Functional Beverages, Industrial Applications, Traditional Medicine.

Beyond ethnobotany: Tracing back the ancient story of the Ngadha people through the utilisation of bamboo

Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Traditional ethnobotanical studies have primarily focused on documenting plant species and their uses, often glorifying them as expressions of local wisdom. This paper advances a broader analytical perspective by integrating anthropological and sociological approaches to explore realities beyond ethnobotanical knowledge. It traces the ancient story of the Ngadha people by investigating their use of bamboo and its origins.

Methods: This qualitative research employs multiple methods, including ethnographic techniques such as in-depth interviews and participatory observations, as well as ethnobotanical techniques using semi-structured interviews. Knowledgeable informants from the Ngadha people were selected using the snowball sampling technique.

Results: This study indicates that, although the Ngadha are migrants who believe bamboo predated their ancestors’ arrival, they possess a sophisticated body of knowledge concerning bamboo cultivation and utilisation. Bamboo has long served as a medium for survival, social cohesion, creative expression, and moral reflection. However, the penetration of modernisation has altered these relationships. Community preferences have shifted toward materials such as concrete, plastic, and metal. Consequently, traditional bamboo knowledge, along with the social and cultural values it sustained, has been diminished and replaced by growing individualism, monetisation, and reliance on industrial technologies.

Conclusions: Bamboo ethnobotany in Ngadha reveals the ancient narrative of the Ngadha People and their survival through bamboo-based traditional technology. However, their knowledge and practices related to bamboo are now threatened by the penetration of modernisation.

Keywords: Ethnobotany; Bamboo utilisation; Ngadha people; Ancient story; Cultural transformation

Dermocosmetic practices traditionally used by the Agni of Bongouanou (Centre-East, Côte d'Ivoire)

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: The skin is continuously exposed to biological, physical, and chemical aggressions. Pathogenic agents, ultraviolet radiation, and synthetic substances found in various dermatological, or hygiene products impair its functions and promote skin conditions. The increasing resistance of microorganisms to antibiotics complicates their management, while repeated use of these substances causes adverse effects. This study aims to highlight traditional plants and dermo-cosmetic products among the Agni of Bongouanou.

Methods: A survey was conducted from February to April 2025 on cosmetopoeia using interview and field walk techniques. Citation frequency and the Smith index were used to assess the cultural importance of the resources.

Results: A total of 253 peoples were interviewed, among whom women were predominantly represented. A diversity of 24 plants species was recorded. The Fabaceae family was the most represented with four species. Leaves (50%) are the most recommended parts. Grinding (50%) is the most commonly used method of preparation. Six categories of traditional products were identified. Palm kernel oil (Fc = 98.28% and Sa = 0.787), black soap (Fc = 77.14% and Sa = 0.514%), shea butter (Fc = 94.85% and Sa = 0.548), and palm oil (Fc = 93.99% and Sa = 0.378) are the traditional products most cited by the knowledgeable informants.

Conclusions: The results obtained constitute a database for research in pharmacognosy, pharmacology, and toxicology to propose an improved traditional plant product against skin conditions and skin aging for the population.

Keywords: Agni, Bongouanou, Ivory Coast, Plants, Dermo-cosmetic practices

Ethnobotanical surveys for the assessment of traditional knowledge of the local flora in Tehsil Gujrat, Pakistan

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Ethnobotanical studies serve as a critical bridge between indigenous wisdom and modern drug discovery. Rapid urbanization and migration of younger generations have threatened the preservation of undocumented traditional knowledge. This study aimed to document the floristic diversity and traditional knowledge from unexplored areas of tehsil Gujrat, Pakistan, an ecologically rich region between Jhelum and Chenab Rivers.

Methods: Field surveys were conducted in tehsil Gujrat, Pakistan and data was gathered from 425 respondents through structured and semi-structured interviews using purposive and snowball sampling. Quantitative indices, including UV, RFC, ICF and FL were employed to determine the medicinal importance of documented species. To assess the uniqueness, cultural exchange and intergenerational retention patterns of traditional knowledge, Jaccard’s Similarity Index (JSI) and Novelty Percentage (NP) were employed.

Results: A total of 83 plant species from 40 families were documented, with herbs (40%) and the Rutaceae family being dominant. Leaves were the most utilized plant part (41%), primarily prepared through decoctions (39%). Mentha arvensis L. showed the highest UV (0.2565), while Aloe vera (L.) Burm.f. exhibited the highest RFC (0.1929) and FL (19.3%) for skin health. The highest ICF (0.481) was recorded for musculoskeletal issues. Comparative analysis revealed JSI scores ranging from 12.9% to 50.4%, indicating low to medium similarity with neighboring areas. Notably, the study recorded a high Novelty Percentage (up to 79%), largely due to the medicinal use of ornamental species like Agave attenuata Salm-Dyck and Bougainvillea spectabilis Willd.

Conclusions: The study highlights that tehsil Gujrat possesses a rich and unique ethnobotanical heritage that is dynamically adapting, as evidenced by the integration of ornamental plants into traditional medicine. The high novelty and low similarity index underscore the necessity of site-specific documentation to prevent the erosion of localized indigenous knowledge.

Keywords: Flora, Gujrat, Regions, Culture, Medicinal, Commonalities

Ethnobotanical study of aromatic and medicinal plants used by women of reproductive age in Taza (Morocco) and modeling of their satisfaction through a machine learning approach

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: The use of aromatic and medicinal plants (AMPs) remains widespread in Morocco, despite advances in modern healthcare and a lack of data on their safety. In Taza province, which is distinctive nationally for its floristic diversity, no studies had previously been conducted on the use of AMPs among women of reproductive age, to the best of our knowledge. The objective of this study was therefore to identify and document the use of such plants among this population.

Methods: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted in both urban and rural settings, involving 430 women aged 15 to 49. The collected data were analyzed through descriptive statistics, ethnobotanical indices, linear regression, and by mobilizing association rules (AI approach), for the first time, to reveal usage profiles that link consumed plants to the participant’s satisfaction, thus offering predictions of perceived efficacy and tolerance.

Results: All the participants (100%) used medicinal plants. 70 plant taxa belonging to 32 families were recognized, with the most represented families being Verbenaceae (FIV = 30.2%), Lauraceae (FIV = 13%), and Lamiaceae (FIV = 10.68%); and the most frequently used species: Origanum compactum Benth. (RFC = 0.595) and Salvia rosmarinus Spenn. (RFC = 0.588). Leaves were the most frequently used component (77.5%), decoction was the most commonly used preparation (76.9%), and administration was mainly oral (97.2%). Perceived effectiveness was closely associated with the level of satisfaction (χ² = 66.5; p < 0.001) and the lack of side effects (χ² = 34.1; p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Thereafter, the studied women have an ancestral knowledge and use a diversity of plants for their health and well-being in Taza. Their satisfaction is linked to plant’s effectiveness and safety. Hence, future pharmacological investigations are required for safe use of local AMPs.

Keywords: Aromatic and medicinal plants; women; reproductive age; satisfaction; Taza; Morocco.

Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used during pregnancy in Sétif, Algeria: a study among herbalists

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Pregnancy is a highly sensitive period during which women often avoid synthetic drugs and turn to traditional medicinal plants. This study aimed to identify medicinal plants used during pregnancy in Setif, Algeria, through an ethnobotanical survey of herbalists.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted over four months (January-April 2024). A paper-based questionnaire in Arabic was administered to 30 herbalists in Setif. Data were analyzed using SPSS.

Results: Among herbalists, 80.0% recommended fennel, 86.7% used plant mixtures, and 63.3% preferred hot water infusion. The most accepted plants were fennel (83.3% agreement), chamomile (80.0%), and lemon verbena (76.6%). Plants with high uncertainty included cinnamon (73.3% no comment), rue (76.7% no comment), and wormwood (66.7% no comment). All herbalists (100%) agreed that dosage affects maternal and foetal health, and 76.7% advised against plant use in the first trimester.

Conclusion: Medicinal plant use during pregnancy is common in Setif, reflecting cultural practices. However, significant uncertainty exists regarding several plants. Better education and evidence-based guidelines for herbalists are needed to ensure maternal and foetal safety.

Keywords: Medicinal plants, fennel, chamomile, cinnamon, herbalists, pregnancy, ethnobotany.

Medicinal plants used in treatment of human ailments in Kulbo Forest, Maji District, Southwest Ethiopia

Jewar Safeno Jara, Biniam Assefa Alemu — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Kulbo Forest in southwestern Ethiopia harbours a rich diversity of medicinal plants and associated indigenous knowledge. Despite its importance for local healthcare, ethnobotanical information from the area remains largely undocumented.

Methods: A cross-sectional ethnobotanical study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with 138 informants. Additional information was gathered through focus group discussions, guided field walks, and market surveys. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Informant Consensus Factor (ICF), and preference ranking techniques.

Results: A total of 70 medicinal plant species belonging to 37 families were documented for the treatment of 55 human ailments. Asteraceae was the most represented family, accounting for 14.3% of the recorded species. Herbs constituted the dominant growth form (61.4%), while leaves were the most frequently utilized plant parts (39.3%). Oral administration was the primary route of remedy application (54.6%). Informant Consensus Factor values were highest for respiratory ailments (ICF = 0.92) and skin diseases (ICF = 0.83), indicating strong agreement among informants regarding treatments for these conditions. Most medicinal plants (68.2%) were harvested from wild habitats, and agricultural expansion was identified as the leading threat to medicinal plant resources.

Conclusions: The findings demonstrate the continued importance of medicinal plants and indigenous knowledge in supporting primary healthcare in rural communities. However, increasing anthropogenic pressures threaten both medicinal plant diversity and associated traditional knowledge. Conservation measures, sustainable harvesting practices, and further phytochemical and pharmacological investigations are needed to ensure the long-term sustainability and utilization of these valuable resources.

Keywords: Ethnobotany; Indigenous knowledge; Medicinal plants; Traditional medicine; Kulbo Forest; Ethiopia.

Exploring traditional knowledge: an ethnobotanical survey of medicinal flora for determining memory-enhancing activity in South Odisha, India

Sat, 30 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Memory is essential for learning and daily life, and its impairment is a growing public health concern. Traditional medicinal systems, especially among indigenous communities, have long used herbal remedies to enhance memory and cognitive performance.

Methods: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted in 2023–2024 across fifteen tribal villages in Rayagada district, Odisha. Data from 105 informants were gathered through semi-structured interviews and participatory observations. Ethnobotanical indices, including Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), Cultural Importance Index (CI), and Use Value (UV), were calculated to assess the significance of the documented species.

Results: A total of 33 medicinal plant species from 25 families were recorded, with Fabaceae as the dominant family. Herbs were the most common life form, while leaves and rhizomes were the most frequently used parts. Oral administration was the main route, and decoctions and powders were the most common preparation methods (17 reports each). Several species showed high cultural significance, including Curculigo orchioides (CI = 0.95, UV = 1.71), Withania somnifera (CI = 1.00, UV = 1.00), Bacopa monnieri (CI = 0.76, UV = 1.22), Allium sativum (CI = 0.90, UV = 1.24), and Centella asiatica (CI = 0.95, UV = 0.95). Pharmacological analysis revealed mainly anti-inflammatory (21.5%), neuroprotective/cognitive (19.2%), and antioxidant (16.9%) activities.

Conclusion: The study highlights the continued use of traditional medicinal plants for memory enhancement among tribal communities of southern Odisha. Species with high cultural importance and use values may be promising candidates for future phytochemical, pharmacological, and clinical studies to develop evidence-based cognitive therapeutics.

Keywords: Ethnobotany; Memory enhancement; Nootropic plants; Cultural Importance Index; Traditional knowledge; Odisha.

From ideology to terminology: The integration of Saracen into medieval pharmacotherapeutics and botany

Amina Katerji — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: This article examines the historical developments and semantic unification of the term Saracen from ideology and ethnography to scientific terminology, particularly in pharmacotherapeutics and botany.

Methods: Using critical discourse analysis, historical and diachronic linguistics, within a defined historical corpus of medical and botanical texts, the study traces how the term Saracen evolved from an ethnographical identifier to a specialized term. Attention was given to the botanical species Cyperus rotundus L. (known as radix saracenica or cyperus saracenicus in medieval texts), as a case study illustrating how linguistic and ethnographical transfers shaped scientific vocabulary.

Results: The findings show that the use of the term in pharmacotherapeutics, encompassing both pharmacotherapeutic theory and practice, as well as botanical literature, reflects broader intercultural interactions between the Arabo-Islamic and European traditions, revealing persistent ideological layers embedded within modern scientific lexicons.

Conclusions: A comprehensive understanding of the term across scientific disciplines highlights the interconnectedness of linguistic, geographical, ethnographical, and historical processes, while also underscoring the need to analyze each lexical item across all fields of science. At the same time, it was necessary to analyze each discipline separately - through an examination of a word’s etymology, morphological composition, chronological and geographical occurrences, socio-political context, and the contributing socio-cultural factors to its use within the linguistics communities in which it developed.

Keywords: Saracen, Cyperus, Arab European view, etymology, history of science, pharmacotherapeutics, medicine, agricultural, botanical, linguistic.

Integrating ethnobotany and quantitative methods: A bibliometric analysis of statistical, mathematical, and data science approaches (2016–2025)

Syella Zignora Limba, I Gede Awantara, Boy Riansyah, Muh Akbar Idris — Fri, 01 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: The application of quantitative methods, including statistics, mathematics, and data science, in ethnobotanical research represents an emerging interdisciplinary frontier. While many bibliometric studies focus on specific medicinal plants, the overall methodological evolution of computational tools within ethnobotany remains largely unexplored. This study addresses this gap by analyzing the integration of machine learning, multivariate statistics, and network analysis into ethnobotanical research.

Methods: A structured bibliometric analysis was conducted using the Scopus database (2016–2025), following PRISMA guidelines. The search targeted titles, abstracts, and keywords linking ethnobotanical concepts with quantitative approaches. A total of 1,275 documents from 337 sources were analyzed using VOSviewer, applying fractional counting and cluster validation to examine publication trends, collaborations, and thematic evolution.

Results: The findings show an annual growth rate of 12.05%, increasing from 83 publications in 2016 to 231 in 2025. Polynomial regression indicates an accelerating trend. The results reveal a shift from descriptive approaches toward algorithm-based methodologies, supported by strong international collaboration (30.43%) and dominant contributions from countries such as India and China.

Conclusions: The integration of data science is transforming ethnobotany into a predictive discipline. This development supports evidence-based validation of traditional knowledge and improves bioprospecting. Future research should focus on developing a unified Computational Ethnobotany Ontology to support large-scale data integration.

Keywords: Ethnobotany; Quantitative Methods; Statistics; Data Science; Bibliometrics; Traditional Knowledge; Machine Learning; Network Pharmacology

Ethnomedical practices and the dynamics of local Knowledge: participatory survey among populations in the Fez Meknes region

Thu, 07 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Medicinal and aromatic plants are essential for therapeutic, food, and cosmetic uses. Objectives: to promote local knowledge and document floral diversity and ethnobotanical practices.

Methods: An ethnobotanical survey (March 2024–March 2025) was conducted among 406 participants in Fez-Meknes Region, Morocco. The data, obtained from semi-open interviews on therapeutic, dietary, and cosmetic practices, were used to calculate Family Use Value (FUV), Use Value (UV), Plant Part Value (PPV), and Informant Agreement Ratio (IAR). Multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) explored the links between plant use and sociodemographic characteristics.

Results: 123 species belonging to 55 botanical families were enumerated, The Lamiaceae family (FUV=0.154) was found to be the most represented, while Ajuga iva (L.) Schreb. (UV=0.57) was the most recommended species. Maceration is the most common method of preparation (63.87%). Leaves are the most commonly used part (PPV=0.78). Painful and inflammatory conditions were the most frequently cited category (IAR=0.96).

Conclusions: Present study highlights the richness of flora and traditional knowledge, and the importance of phytochemical and pharmacological research in scientifically validating therapeutic, dietary, and cosmetic uses.

Keywords: Ethnopharmacology, Traditional medicine, Medicinal plants, Use value/IAR.

Comparative ethnobotanical analysis of medicinal plants in the Western Tien Shan Transboundary Region using an integrated approach: A comparison with the Nurata Range

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Mountain ecosystems of Central Asia represent key centers of biological and cultural diversity, yet comparative quantitative assessments of medicinal plant use across ecologically contrasting mountain systems remain limited. This study aims to evaluate the ethnobotanical significance of medicinal plants in the Western Tien Shan transboundary region and compare the results with the Nurata Range using an integrated assessment model.

Methods: Medicinal plant species were selected based on documented traditional use and confirmed occurrence within each region. A total of 185 species from Western Tien Shan and 110 species from Nurata were evaluated using the Ethnobotanical Value Index (EVI), calculated as the mean of five equally weighted parameters: use diversity, chemical richness, plant part diversity, preparation diversity, and additional functional value. Floristic similarity between regions was assessed using the Jaccard similarity coefficient.

Results: Western Tien Shan exhibited higher species richness, while Nurata showed a higher mean EVI value (2.97 vs. 2.32), indicating stronger knowledge concentration. A greater proportion of high-EVI species (≥3.0) was recorded in Nurata, whereas Western Tien Shan displayed a more dispersed distribution across value categories. Jaccard analysis (J = 0.45) revealed moderate similarity, with 91 shared species and substantial regional differentiation.

Conclusion: The findings demonstrate that species richness and ethnobotanical use intensity represent distinct structural dimensions of traditional knowledge systems. The integrated EVI framework provides a quantitative basis for prioritizing medicinal plant species and supports conservation-oriented management strategies in transboundary mountain ecosystems of Central Asia.

Keywords: Ethnobotany; Medicinal plants; Western Tien Shan; Nurata Range; Ethnobotanical Value Index (EVI); Transboundary mountain ecosystems; Central Asia; Floristic similarity; Traditional knowledge systems.

Ecosystem services of woody species along an ecological disturbance gradient in Sudanian savannas of Burkina Faso (West Africa)

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Ecosystem services (ES) are increasingly threatened by intense human pressure leading to species over-exploitation and ecosystem degradation. This study aims to assess the potential ES delivered by woody species under varying ecological disturbance levels and land use/land cover classes through indigenous knowledge.

Methods: To this end, ethnobotanical surveys were conducted in three areas of Burkina Faso: the Watershed of Dano, villages surrounding the Total Wildlife Reserve of Bontioli, and the Game Ranch of Nazinga. A total of 240 open-ended interviews were conducted to record the provisioning, regulatory, supporting, and cultural services provided by woody species. The Index of the capacity to provide ecosystem services of Species was applied to quantify ES across different ecological disturbance levels.

Results: Results identified 129 woody species providing 15 distinct ES across all categories. Agroecosystems contributed of the highest level of ES provision, surpassing even savanna ecosystems with lower ecological disturbance level. Notably, even heavily modified areas showed considerable ES provision, emphasizing local practices that sustain valuable species. Promoting agroforestry is essential to enhance local capacity for biodiversity conservation and sustainable ES management.

Conclusions: To secure long-term provisioning, local communities should be sensitized about the full spectrum of ES, including support, regulation, and cultural dimensions.

Keywords: agroforestry, conservation, indigenous knowledge, land use, woody species

Ethnobotany in science education: A pathway for biology teachers to engage with climate change and local knowledge

Sat, 11 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Ethnobotany is an essential science for biocultural conservation and climate resilience, helping explain human-plant relationships in socio-ecological contexts. However, integrating Local Ecological Knowledge (LEK) and climate change into science education remains challenging in schools serving traditional and socially vulnerable communities, due to curricular rigidity, limited resources, and disconnection between curricula and local realities. This study investigates how Brazilian Biology teachers navigate these barriers in their pedagogical practices.

Methods: Using mixed methods, we conducted semi-structured questionnaires and interviews with Biology teachers from eight public schools across Brazil's North, Northeast, and South regions, selected for socio-environmental vulnerability and proximity to traditional communities. Analysis included thematic coding, descriptive statistics, Spearman's correlations (ethnobotany inclusion × teacher self-efficacy), and Fisher's exact test for regional Didactic Sequences (DS) adoption patterns.

Results: While 92% of teachers acknowledge ethnobotany's relevance, implementation revealed structural gaps. Curricula prioritized curriculum-based botanical content (morphology: 64%; reproduction: 55%) over LEK-related themes (medicinal plants: 36%; Unconventional Food Plants: 27%). Climate change education relied predominantly on expository methods (78%), with place-based strategies being marginal. DS adoption was low, with no significant regional association (p = 0.776). Three barriers were identified: 1) disconnection between curricula and community knowledge, 2) lack of contextualized materials, and 3) structural constraints in teacher training.

Conclusions: Despite barriers, pedagogical resilience emerged through school gardens, community-based projects, and locally adapted DS. We recommend co-developing materials with communities strengthening teacher training through intercultural and place-based approaches and building collaborative networks between schools and universities to embed ethnobotany and climate justice within science curricula.

Keywords: Brazil; Biology teaching; Climate crisis; Local Ecological Knowledge, Vulnerable communities

Taxonomic diversity and ethnobotanical importance of adventive medicinal plants in the urban flora of Andijan city (Uzbekistan)

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Urban ecosystems are characterized by intensive anthropogenic transformation that facilitates the spread of adventive plant species. Many of these species possess medicinal properties and are widely used in traditional ethnobotanical practices. However, the taxonomic diversity and ethnobotanical importance of adventive medicinal plants in urban flora remain insufficiently studied in many regions, including Uzbekistan.

Methods: Floristic surveys were conducted in different urban habitats of Andijan city (Uzbekistan) during the vegetation seasons of 2019–2023 using route (transect) methods. Plant identification was carried out based on regional floristic literature and herbarium materials. Ethnobotanical information on medicinal plant use was compiled from published scientific and ethnobotanical sources.

Results: A total of 66 medicinal plant species belonging to 61 genera and 22 families were recorded in the urban flora of Andijan city. The taxonomic spectrum showed that the majority of species belong to the families Asteraceae, Fabaceae, Brassicaceae, Lamiaceae, and Polygonaceae, which represent the dominant medicinal plant groups in the urban environment. Ethnobotanical analysis revealed that many species are traditionally used for treating digestive, respiratory, inflammatory, and skin-related diseases. However, medicinal plants growing in urban environments may accumulate heavy metals and other anthropogenic pollutants originating from transport emissions, industrial activities and contaminated soils. Therefore, the safety of medicinal plants collected from urban habitats should be carefully evaluated before their use in traditional medicine.

Conclusions: The results highlight the ecological and ethnobotanical importance of adventive medicinal plants as a significant component of urban biodiversity. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the role of adventive species in urban ecosystems and emphasize the need to consider ecological safety when using medicinal plants collected from urban environments.

Keywords: Alien plants; Urban ecosystems; Traditional medicine; Floristic diversity; Anthropogenic habitats; Uzbekistan

Evaluation of the ethnobotanical importance of Chromolana odorata (L.) R.M.King & H.Rob. and Mesosphaerum suaveolens (L.) Kuntze, two invasive alien plant species in southern and central Benin

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Traditional medicinal knowledge remains a major source of healthcare for rural communities in developing countries. Chromolaena odorata and Mesosphaerum suaveolens, native to tropical America and invasive in Africa and Asia, are widely used in traditional medicine despite their ecological impacts. This study documents and compares the ethnobotanical uses, preparation methods, and cultural importance of these two invasive species.

Methods: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted among 196 respondents selected using purposive sampling in rural communities of central and southern Benin. Data were collected from May to July 2025 using structured questionnaires to document uses, use categories, local names, plant parts, and preparation methods of both species. Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) and Use Value (UV) indices were calculated to assess species importance. Associations between sociocultural groups and use categories were analysed using chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests, and Correspondence Analysis.

Results: Twelve distinct vernacular names were identified for both species combined, five for C. odorata and seven for M. suaveolens, reflecting sociocultural variability in their designation. Three main categories of use were identified: medicinal, veterinary, and repellent. Among the different use categories, medicinal use was the most frequently cited for C. odorata (RFC = 55.6%) and M. suaveolens (RFC = 57.6%). Repellent use was markedly higher for M. suaveolens (RFC = 49.4%) than for C. odorata (RFC = 12.2%), while veterinary use remained limited for both species (RFC ≈ 11%). Leaves were the most used plant part, and preparation methods mainly included decoction, infusion, trituration, and inhalation. Statistical analyses revealed significant associations between sociocultural groups and use categories (p < 0.001).

Conclusions: These findings highlight the widespread use of both species in traditional healthcare practices despite their invasive status. The reported uses of C. odorata and M. suaveolens highlight their potential relevance for the development of plant-based pest management strategies and emphasize the importance of documenting local ethnobotanical knowledge.

Keywords: Ethnobotany, Chromolaena odorata, Mesosphaerum suaveolens, traditional medicine, medicinal plants, indigenous knowledge.

Reassessing and expanding the Forage Value Index: native plants and pastoral communities of the Chaco Serrano

N. David Jiménez-Escobar, Fernando Zamudio , Victoria Marquez — Sun, 07 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: The use of ecological indices in ecology is a widely expanded strategy to synthesize and compare complex natural systems by using quantitative variables such as species abundance, diversity, composition, and ecosystem structure. This study proposes a reassessment of the Forage Value Index (FVI) by integrating ethnobotanical criteria to better capture the functional and cultural importance of native forage plants in the Chaco Serrano (northwestern Argentina).

Methods: An enriched Forage Value Index (eFVI) was developed by incorporating locally defined variables, including palatability, abundance, accessibility, seasonal availability, livestock specificity, and plant parts consumed. Data were collected through ethnobotanical fieldwork conducted with rural pastoral communities quantitatively analyzed by relativizing index values to improve comparability across species.

Results: The eFVI integrates ethnobotanical variables to more accurately reflect local forage selection practices in pastoral systems. A total of 129 forage species were documented, among which 26 were identified as key species. The results indicate that forage preference is primarily determined by livestock type, forage quality–palatability, and annual availability. These findings underscore the value of local knowledge in ecosystem management as a foundation for promoting sustainable and autonomous livestock production.

Conclusions: The eFVI constitutes a robust, dynamic, and context-sensitive tool that effectively integrates ecological data with local knowledge. Native species with high index values should be prioritized in the design of management and conservation strategies. Ethnobotanical approaches deepen the understanding of plant and local communities’ relationships, thereby supporting biodiversity conservation, autonomous livestock production, and food security in pastoral systems across arid and semi-arid regions.

Keywords: Ethnobotany; Forage plants; Livestock; Rural communities; Catamarca; Argentina

Ethnobotanical study on medicinal plants used by the Rajapur Saraswat Community of Dakshina Kannada, the Western Ghats of India

Anadka Yogeesha, Bhat Pradeep, Gulimane Krishnakumar — Sun, 10 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: The indigenous Rajapur Saraswat community in Dakshina Kannada district uses variety of herbal remedies to manage their primary healthcare needs. A large number of modern synthetic drugs are also available to serve the purpose, but they are often associated with severe side-effects. There are no previous reports on the documentation of ethno-medicinal information of this community.

Methods: An ethnobotanical survey of the Rajapur Saraswat community was conducted from 2023 to 2025 in the rural areas of Dakshina Kannada district, Karnataka state, India. A total of 29 traditional practitioners were interviewed through semi-structured, open-ended discussions using a questionnaire. The gathered data was analyzed using qualitative descriptive methods, and quantitative tools such as use value (UV), relative frequency of citation (RFC), and informant consensus factor (ICF).

Results: In total, 99 plant species belonging to 41 families were reported to have medicinal value and were used by the local community across the studied sites. The Fabaceae family was the most dominant family in terms of species diversity (7 species), followed by Lamiaceae (6 species), Apocyanaceae, Malvaceae, Phyllanthaceae and Rutaceae (5 species each), Euphorbiaceae, Myrtaceae, Poaceae and Rubiaceae (4 species each), Acanthaceae, Apiaceae and Combretaceae (3 species each). The plant species that have exhibited the highest RFC values are Curcuma longa (0.62), followed by Tinospora cordifolia and Piper nigrum (0.52 each), Aristolochia indica and Leucas aspera (0.48 each), Cuminum cyminum, Ziziphus oenoplia and Hemidesmus indicus (0.45 each), Zingiber officinale, Coriandrum sativum, Jasminum grandiflorum, Ocimum tenuiflorum and Ventilago maderaspatana (0.41 each), Senegalia catechu and Plectranthus amboinicus (0.38 each). Respiratory ailments had maximum agreement between informants (ICF=0.86) followed by digestive system (ICF=0.83), oral, dental, ear and nose category (ICF=0.82), dermatological (ICF=0.77), metabolic (ICF=0.75), fever (ICF=0.74), poisonous bites (ICF=0.73), urinary system (ICF=0.72), neurological and musculoskeletal (ICF=0.71), gynecological (ICF=0.58) and circulatory system (0.54). The plant species, Cassia fistula was reported to have the highest UV (1.00), followed by Litsea wightiana and Breynia vitis-idaea (0.67 each), and Ficus racemosa (0.57). The highest number of mentions was for Curcuma longa (seven), followed by Cuminum cyminum (six), Aristolochia indica, Ixora coccinea, Piper nigrum, and Senegalia catechu (five each). Considering the conservation status, Syzygium travancoricum is listed as Critically Endangered, Syzygium caryophyllatum as Endangered, Aporosa cardiosperma as Vulnerable, and Aegle marmelos as Near Threatened, as per the IUCN Red List.

Conclusions: The findings reveal a rich diversity of plant species used for various ailments, with notable emphasis on formulations such as decoctions and juices for oral administration. The high ICF values recorded in this study suggest strong agreement on medicinal formulations among practitioners in the Rajapur Saraswat community. However, further interdisciplinary studies are needed to validate the therapeutic potential of medicinal plants to discover new drugs.

Keywords: Ethnobotany, Rajapur Saraswat, traditional knowledge, Dakshina Kannada

Plant biodiversity and ethnomedicinal practices for female reproductive health in Ganjam (Odisha) and Northern Andhra Pradesh, India

Priyanka Patra, Biswajeet Acharya — Sun, 19 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Traditional medicinal plants are central to female reproductive healthcare among rural and coastal communities of Ganjam (Odisha) and northern Andhra Pradesh, India. Indigenous knowledge integrates biodiversity with culturally embedded practices to manage infertility, menstrual irregularities, hormonal imbalance, uterine disorders, and menopausal symptoms.

Methods: An ethnobotanical survey (December 2024–October 2025) was conducted across Berhampur, Gopalpur, Rambha, Purushottampur, Digapahandi, Nuapada, and Ichchapuram. Data were gathered from 105 informants—including traditional healers, midwives, women SHG members, farmers, fisherfolk, and herbal vendors—using semi-structured interviews, participant observation, and guided field walks. Plant specimens were taxonomically authenticated and voucher samples deposited in a recognised herbarium. Quantitative indices (IP, IR, UR, UV, RFC, CI, FL, and FUV) were calculated to assess species importance and community consensus.

Results: Fifty medicinal plant species belonging to 34 families were recorded, with Fabaceae most represented. High-use species included Cinnamomum verum (UV = 0.990; RFC = 0.961), Trigonella foenum-graecum (UV = 0.980; RFC = 0.952), Asparagus racemosus (UV = 0.952; RFC = 0.923), Hemidesmus indicus (UV = 0.971), and Withania somnifera (UV = 0.961). Preparations comprised decoctions, powders, ghritas, lehyas, oils, and fermented formulations, often administered with milk, ghee, or honey. Reported activities included ovulation induction, insulin-sensitising effects (PCOS adjunct), anti-androgenic and antioxidant actions, uterine tonicity, anti-inflammatory effects, and endocrine modulation.

Conclusions: Quantitative ethnobotanical evidence supports the scientific plausibility of multi-targeted plant-based therapies for female reproductive health and highlights priority species for further phytochemical and clinical validation, alongside urgent biodiversity conservation efforts.

Keywords: Female reproductive health; ethnobotany; fertility; PCOS; coastal Odisha; phytotherapy; traditional medicine; biodiversity conservation.

Ethnobotanical assessment of medicinal plants used by indigenous tribes in Mainpat Hills, Chhattisgarh: Quantitative indices and therapeutic potential

Rakesh Kerketta, Monali Nanda, Mamta Patra Shahi, Sushil Kumar Shahi — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: This study explores traditional medicinal knowledge among indigenous tribes of Mainpat hills, Chhattisgarh, documenting their reliance on ethnomedicinal plants for treating common ailments. Using indices like UV, RFC, and FL, it identifies species with therapeutic potential, stressing the need to conserve both indigenous knowledge and biodiversity. The aim is to document and analyse traditional plant use and highlight species of high medicinal value.

Methods: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted across tribal villages in Mainpat hills using door-to-door interviews with local inhabitants and healers. A total of 17 informants participated in the study, who are practicing healers. Data on plant names, parts used, preparation, treated ailments, and administration routes were collected via structured questionnaires. Quantitative indices (UV, ICF, RFC, FL, ROP) were applied for analysis.

Results: A total of 46 medicinal plant species belonging to 33 families were documented for the treatment of 36 ailments distributed across 11 disease categories. Leaves were the most frequently used plant part (39%), predominantly prepared as oral decoctions. The results indicate a strong dependence of local communities on herbal medicine for primary healthcare. Vitex altissima L.f. showed the highest use value, indicating broad therapeutic application, while Vernonia amygdalina Delile showed the lowest. Respiratory ailments exhibited the highest consensus among informants. Species such as Punica granatum L., Citrus limon (L.) Osbeck, and Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Hook.f. & Thomson showed the highest therapeutic specificity and cultural importance within the community.

Conclusion: The indigenous communities of Mainpat hills exhibit rich ethnomedicinal knowledge and dependence on plant-based remedies for healthcare. Key plants with high UV and FL indicate strong therapeutic and cultural value. The findings highlight the need for pharmacological validation and conservation of both traditional knowledge and biodiversity.

Keywords: Ethnomedicine, medicinal plants, traditional medicinal system, tribal communities, Surguja

A comprehensive study of ethnomedicinal plants of Thein Conservation Reserve, Jammu & Kashmir, India, used by local communities

Sun, 24 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Plants have been integral to human healthcare since antiquity, functioning as the primary source of therapeutically active substances employed in both traditional and contemporary medicine. Nearly 85% of the global population relies on traditional plant-based remedies, valued for their safety and cost-effectiveness. This study constitutes the first ethnobotanical survey of Thein Conservation Reserve, District Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), India. It aims to systematically document the ethnomedicinal repertoire of local communities, particularly the Gujjar, Bakarwal, and Dogra communities.

Methods: Data were elicited from 293 informants (171 men, 122 women, aged 22–94 years) through semi-structured interviews. Quantitative ethnobotanical metrics, such as Fidelity Level (FL), Use Value (UV), and Informant Consensus Factor (FIC), were employed to evaluate the medicinal importance of plants.

Results: A total of 91 plant species from 51 families and 85 genera were catalogued. Fabaceae was the most frequently cited family, followed by Asteraceae, Moraceae, and Euphorbiaceae. Leaves emerged as the predominantly utilized plant part (38%), with oral administration being the predominant mode. A total of 76 species (83.51%) were obtained from wild sources, whereas 15 species (16.48%) were collected from both wild and cultivated environments. Justicia adhatoda L. exhibited the highest UV (3.06), followed by Azadirachta indica A. Juss. (2.20). The highest FIC was observed for gastrointestinal ailments (FIC = 0.89). Some community-level variation in ethnomedicinal knowledge and plant-use practices was observed between the semi-nomadic and sedentary groups.

Conclusions: The study highlights extensive ethnomedicinal knowledge within local communities, suggesting possible knowledge transmission and therapeutic correlations. These findings accentuate the need for pharmacological validation and the conservation of indigenous medicinal practices.

Keywords: Ethnobotany, Thein Conservation Reserve, Dogra, Gujjar, Bakarwal, Medicinal plant.

Quantitative assessment of ethnomedicinal plants utilized by the Eastern Himalayan tea garden workers, India

Deepika Chettri, Monoranjan Chowdhury — Sat, 11 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: The Eastern Himalaya is rich in diverse flora and is home to indigenous communities. The present study was undertaken to document the understudied traditional medicinal wisdom of tea garden workers in the Eastern Himalayas, India.

Methods: Ethnomedicinal surveys and interviews were conducted between 2019 and 2024, involving 127 informants (92 male and 35 female) aged 20–90 years. Data analysis utilised quantitative indices, statistical tools, and the Jaccard index (JI) and Rehman’s Similarity Index (RSI).

Results: Informants reported 193 ethnomedicinal plants used to treat 15 disease categories. Leaves represented the most commonly utilised plant part and were generally prepared as decoctions. The highest Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) was associated with bone-related disorders (0.65). Ocimum tenuiflorum demonstrated the highest Use Value (UV) at 0.078. Among the documented plants, 84 showed 100% Fidelity Level (FL), indicating exclusive use; Ocimum tenuiflorum had the lowest FL (7.14%), indicating versatile use.

Conclusions: The plants with high Use Value and Fidelity Level can be subjected to further pharmacological studies to validate ethnomedicinal knowledge of the tea garden workers of the Eastern Himalaya.

Keywords: Quantitative study, ethnomedicines, tea garden workers, indigenous community, Eastern Himalaya

An ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants used by Paniya community of Amarambalam Reserve Forest, Kerala, India

Ashlin Mariam Sam , Revathi Ponnusamy — Sat, 11 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: The major tribal communities in Kerala are Paniyar, Kattunayakkan, Aranadans, Paliyan, Irular and Adiyar. Each tribal group has their languages, cultural practices and also have their unique healing methods. Many ethnic communities are still unaware of the importance of documenting their knowledge, which is gradually disappearing with each passing generation.

Methods: The study area was located in part of Amarambalam Reserve Forest, which is under the Karimpuzha Wildlife Sanctuary. The objectives were to document indigenous plants used by the Paniya community for medicinal purposes, to record preparation methods, dosages, plant parts used, and additional ingredients. Information was collected among the eleven individuals of the Paniya tribes.

Results: Fifty-five plants representing 29 families were documented. Herbs were the most frequently used medicinal plants followed by shrubs, trees and climbers. Euphorbiaceae and Fabaceae members were predominant leaves and whole-plants were more abundantly used in their preparation methods. Additional ingredients included honey, coconut oil, turmeric, milk, salt, or various plant and non-plant-based powders. Paste was the most frequently used formulation method followed by extract, decoction, infusion, powder and juice. Novel medicinal uses for the documented plants were recorded.

Conclusions: The analysis of use values and the fidelity levels of plants for specific illness suggests the conservation priorities by identifying the most valuable plants of the community. The collection of ethnobotanical information and documentation of traditional knowledge has also gained prominence from the perspective of drug development.

Keywords: Paniya tribes, Kerala, Ethnobotany, Use Value, Fidelity, Ingredients

Urban ethnobotany, medicinal plant diversity, commercialization, and biosafety in the public market of Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Urban public markets are central nodes for the circulation of medicinal plants and ethnomedical knowledge, yet integrative analyses combining species diversity, commercialization dynamics, and biosafety remain scarce in Northeastern Brazil.

Methods: A cross-sectional ethnobotanical study was conducted in public markets of Recife using semi-structured interviews, market inventories, and ethnographic observation. Species were identified through a triangulated taxonomic approach. Therapeutic indications were classified according to ICD-11, and quantitative ethnobotanical indices and similarity analyses were applied.

Results: A total of 100 medicinal plant species belonging to 50 families were recorded, with predominance of Lamiaceae (16 spp.), Fabaceae (14 spp.), and Asteraceae (7 spp.). Herbaceous (41%) and arboreal (38%) species were the most frequent life forms, and leaves were the main commercialized plant part (n = 51). Highly versatile species (RI = 0.9) included Ocimum campechianum, Mentha longifolia, Mentha spicata, and Laurus nobilis. Knowledge and commercial autonomy increased with age (ρ = 0.68; p < 0.001), and similarity analysis indicated a central redistribution role for major markets. Plant-part commercialization differed significantly among markets (two-way ANOVA, F = 4.78; p < 0.001). Botanical identification relied predominantly on vernacular recognition, and labeling, storage, and traceability revealed heterogeneous biosafety patterns.

Conclusions: Recife’s public markets sustain a diverse and socially structured urban pharmacopoeia in which knowledge transmission, trade networks, and therapeutic versatility are closely interconnected. Uneven biosafety practices highlight the need for participatory governance strategies that reconcile sanitary standards with traditional medical systems.

Keywords: Urban ethnobotany, medicinal plant trade, public markets, biocultural knowledge, biosafety, Brazil.

Climate change and local medical systems: future availability of medicinal plants for the treatment of climate-sensitive diseases

Eric Bem dos Santos, Ulysses Paulino Albuquerque, Elcida de Lima Araújo — Sun, 10 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Climate change has intensified the incidence of climate-sensitive diseases (CSD) while simultaneously altering the availability of medicinal plant resources, with potential consequences for human health and the functioning of local medical systems (LMS), particularly in semiarid regions.

Methods: Species distribution models were developed for 83 woody medicinal plant species using occurrence records from GBIF and bioclimatic variables from WorldClim. Projections were generated for the year 2100 under current climatic conditions and three future scenarios (RCP 2.6, RCP 4.5, and RCP 8.5) to assess changes in the availability of medicinal resources used in the treatment of dengue, chikungunya, zika, malaria, leishmaniasis, and yellow fever.

Results: Most species exhibited a contraction of suitable areas under future climate scenarios, with 68.7% showing consistent reductions across all projections. Losses were more pronounced among species associated with higher therapeutic diversity, and overall species richness declined markedly under the most extreme scenario (RCP 8.5).

Conclusions: Projected climate change is likely to reduce the availability of medicinal plant resources in the semiarid region, increasing the vulnerability of local medical systems by limiting therapeutic options for the treatment of climate-sensitive diseases.

Keywords: Arboviral diseases; Caatinga; Semiarid; Species distribution modeling

Tracing non-timber forest products in Central-Western Brazil: an ethnobotanical and bioeconomic synthesis for Mato Grosso

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) are important for food security, household health care, cultural continuity, and supplementary income in Mato Grosso, Brazil. Despite this relevance, the state still lacks an integrated overview linking ethnobotanical diversity, spatial distribution, and traceability needs to support public policy and bioeconomy strategies.

Methods: This study conducted a structured literature review combined with bibliometric and spatial analyses of NTFPs reported in Mato Grosso, Brazil, between 2000 and 2020. An initial set of 203 references was screened, and 127 validated scientific documents were retained. The records were taxonomically standardized and spatially analyzed in QGIS.

Results: The review yielded 850 raw ethnobotanical records, standardized into 533 valid species from 94 botanical families and 2,199 reported uses. Fabaceae, Arecaceae, Bignoniaceae, Asteraceae, and Euphorbiaceae were the most represented families, while food and medicinal uses were the most frequent categories. Records were concentrated in 47 municipalities, revealing strong spatial asymmetry and major knowledge gaps.

Conclusions: By integrating taxonomic, cultural, and geographic information, this study provides a baseline for improving traceability, supporting sustainable forest management, and informing public policy and regional bioeconomy planning of state.

Keywords: ethnobotany; bioeconomy; non-timber forest products; traceability; traditional ecological knowledge

Ethnomedicinal plants of Bechar, southwest Algeria: Quantitative assessment of traditional knowledge, informant consensus, and candidate species for pharmacological validation

Sun, 24 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Traditional medicinal knowledge in arid and semi-arid regions represents an underexplored reservoir for drug discovery. However, the systematic evaluation of multiple therapeutic systems within a single pharmacopoeia remains limited. This ethnopharmacological assessment prioritizes high-consensus treatments to guide future pharmacological investigation.

Methods: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted from February to June 2023 across six municipalities of Bechar. Data were collected through structured interviews with 175 informants (traditional healers, herborists, phytotherapists, and herbal medicine enthusiasts) and subsequently documented and analyzed using Use Value (UV), Informant Consensus Factor (ICF), and Fidelity Level (FL) indices. Statistical analyses included chi-square tests and regression modeling.

Results: Ninety-nine (99) medicinal plant species demonstrated therapeutic applications across seven major organ systems. High-consensus treatments (ICF ≥0.80) were identified for respiratory conditions (ICF=0.89, 28 plants) and gastrointestinal disorders (ICF=0.84, 52 plants). Ceratonia siliqua demonstrated the highest fidelity level for gastric ulcers (FL=95%). Secondary therapeutic areas included parasitic infections (22 plants, ICF=0.76), skin conditions (31 plants), and urogenital dysfunction (18 plants). Age-stratified analysis revealed significant intergenerational knowledge erosion (UV >50 years: 0.52±0.18 vs <35 years: 0.31±0.15; p<0.001). Combination formulations (75% of treatments) incorporated 2-15 plants, suggesting a potential synergistic therapeutic approach based on traditional polyherbal practice.

Conclusions: This multi-system ethnopharmacological assessment identified medicinal plants with high consensus and strong quantitative prioritization for the treatment of respiratory and gastrointestinal disorders. High informant consensus factors and fidelity levels provide a quantitative basis for prioritizing species for future pharmacological study. Urgent documentation is essential to preserve endangered ethnomedicinal knowledge and rapid cultural erosion.

Keywords: Ethnobotany, ethnopharmacology, high-consensus treatments, medicinal plants, Bechar, Algeria.

Initial introduction of selected promising foreign medicinal species for establishing a collection of essential-oil plants

Dilovar T. Khamraeva, Nargiza K. Rakhimova, Sobit Nosirov, Rainer W. Bussmann — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: The article presents the results of the initial introduction of several promising foreign medicinal plants aimed at establishing a collection of essential-oil species at the Tashkent Botanical Garden. The obtained data can be used to expand the assortment of medicinal and essential-oil plants, as well as to develop specialized collections and implement new crops in agricultural practice.

Methods: Phenological observations and biometric measurements (Shulz 1981) were carried out throughout the growing season of essential-oil plants in 2025. Following the traditional methodology of phenological observations (Methodology… 1975), the dates of the following phenological phases were recorded: onset of vegetation, beginning of budding, flowering period, fruit ripening, and end of the growing season.

Results: Under the agrocenosis conditions of the Botanical Garden, the introduced species (Agastache scrophulariifolia, Dracocephalum moldavica, Hyssopus ambiguus, Leonurus cardiaca, Monarda citriodora, Nigella damascena, Origanum laevigatum, Salvia deserta, Scutellaria albida subsp. colchica, Scutellaria altissima) reached the flowering and fruiting phases during their first year of vegetation. For Salvia hispanica, flowering was observed in the second half of October; however, due to a sharp temperature drop, flowering and seed formation were interrupted, and viable seeds were not obtained. In Scutellaria albida subsp. colchica, Scutellaria altissima, and Nigella damascena, self-seeding and rapid transition to generative stages were recorded, indicating their successful adaptation to the introduction conditions. Analysis of flowering times showed a shift compared to their natural habitats, with the introduced species being classified into five groups based on the onset of flowering.

Conclusion: The introduced species (Hyssopus ambiguus, Origanum laevigatum, Agastache scrophulariifolia, Leonurus cardiaca, Monarda citriodora, Dracocephalum moldavica, Scutellaria albida subsp. colchica, Scutellaria altissima, Salvia deserta, and Nigella damascena) of alien flora successfully completed a full ontogenetic cycle and produced viable seeds during their first year of vegetation under the conditions of the Botanical Garden. Salvia hispanica is characterized by genetically determined short-day flowering without photoperiodic variability and, considering the successful seed formation in the subtropical zone of Uzbekistan, can be recommended for cultivation in the Surkhandarya region. Scutellaria albida subsp. colchica, Scutellaria altissima, and Nigella damascena successfully regenerate through self-seeding and partially proceed to generative development, indicating their good adaptation to the new growth conditions.

Keywords: adaptation, creation of collections, essential oil plants, foreign species, introduction, medicinal plants, phenology.

Ethnobotanical investigation of medicinal plants used for wound management in the semi-arid steppe of El Bayadh, Algeria

Leyla Figuigui, Abdelkrim Cheriti — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: This investigation documented ethnobotanical knowledge of medicinal plants used for wound healing in El Bayadh, Algeria. Semi-structured interviews with 94 participants provided comprehensive data on 25 plant species used in traditional wound-treatment practices. The objective of this study is to identify medicinal plant species used in wound healing and evaluate their cultural importance, therapeutic roles, and preparation methods.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews conducted between January and June 2023 gathered information on plant species, growth forms, parts used, and preparation techniques. The Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) index was used to quantify the cultural significance of the documented species.

Results: The Lamiaceae family showed the highest consensus (RFC = 0.98). Lagenaria siceraria (RFC = 0.51) and Capsicum annuum (RFC = 0.45) were the most frequently cited species. Herbaceous plants (72%) and whole-plant use (72%) predominated. Powdering (52%) and decoction (40%) were the principal preparation methods. Demographic analysis showed that women (68.09%) and individuals aged 41–60 (67.02%) were the primary holders of traditional knowledge.

Conclusions: The recorded plants support wound healing through antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Local preparation techniques optimize the extraction and bioavailability of therapeutic compounds. This inventory highlights the region's biocultural richness and provides a foundation for future pharmacological research aimed at developing plant-based wound-management strategies.

Keywords: Ethnobotany; Medicinal plants; Wound healing; Traditional knowledge; El Bayadh; Lamiaceae

Traditional knowledge on Vanilla pompona in Totonacapan, Mexico: An analysis of its management, use and generational transmission in systems in secondary vegetation (acahual)

Sun, 24 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: The study of local knowledge about vanilla provides a theoretical basis for understanding the impact of social and cultural factors on the use and management of this crop. This study documents the traditional knowledge associated with the management and use of Vanilla pompona.

Methods: With a qualitative approach, we conducted 17 semi-structured interviews with people who have V. pompona plants in some locations in Puebla and Veracruz, Mexico. Information from the interviews was processed using descriptive statistics.

Results: The results reveal that V. pompona is predominantly tolerated and conserved in homegardens with minimal management. The growers recognize its phenology, pollinate manually or rely on natural pollinators, and harvest the fruits guided by the yellow color at the base and by their aroma. Its value resides in specific cultural uses: as a food flavoring, air freshener, medicinal plant (for infertility and menstrual problems) and ornamental/ritual element. Although commercialization is still limited, almost half of the interviewees believe that its cultivation is potentially profitable if a stable market and fair price are guaranteed. Traditional knowledge of V. pompona is transmitted orally within the family. However, the interviewees are concerned that traditional knowledge on V. pompona may be lost because of the lack of interest on the part of younger generations and because sale of the product is not guaranteed.

Conclusions: There is little agronomic management V. pompona, and some of their uses are ornamental, medicinal, for flavoring certain beverages. Furthermore, conservation of this species in these traditional acahual and homegarden systems is linked more to its cultural value and specific uses than to a direct economic benefit. It is crucial to revalue this plant genetic resource, strengthening its local market and creating policies that reward farmers for preserving agrobiodiversity.

Keywords: Acahual, ethnobotany, livelihoods, México, traditional ecological knowledge, Vanilla pompona

Resumen

Antecedentes: El estudio del conocimiento local sobre la vainilla proporciona una base teórica para comprender el impacto de los factores sociales y culturales en el uso y manejo de este cultivo. Este estudio documenta el conocimiento tradicional asociado con el manejo y uso de Vanilla pompona.

Métodos: Mediante un enfoque cualitativo, realizamos 17 entrevistas semiestructuradas con personas que poseen plantas de V. pompona en diversas localidades de Puebla y Veracruz, México. La información obtenida en las entrevistas se procesó mediante estadística descriptiva.

Resultados: Los resultados revelan que V. pompona se tolera y conserva predominantemente en huertos familiares con un manejo mínimo. Los agricultores identifican su fenología, polinizan manualmente o recurren a polinizadores naturales y cosechan los frutos guiados por el color amarillo de la base y su aroma. Su valor reside en usos culturales específicos: como aromatizante de alimentos, ambientador, planta medicinal (para la infertilidad y problemas menstruales) y elemento ornamental/ritual. Aunque la comercialización aún es limitada, casi la mitad de los entrevistados cree que su cultivo es potencialmente rentable si se garantiza un mercado estable y un precio justo. El conocimiento tradicional sobre V. pompona se transmite oralmente dentro de la familia. Sin embargo, a los entrevistados les preocupa que el conocimiento tradicional sobre V. pompona pueda perderse debido a la falta de interés de las generaciones más jóvenes y a que la venta del producto no está garantizada.

Conclusiones: Existe un manejo limitado de V. pompona, y algunos de sus usos son ornamentales, medicinales y para aromatizar ciertas bebidas. Además, la conservación de esta especie en estos sistemas tradicionales de cultivo en huertos familiares y acahuales está más ligada a su valor cultural y usos específicos que a un beneficio económico directo. Es crucial revalorizar este recurso fitogenético, fortaleciendo su mercado local y creando políticas que recompensen a los agricultores por preservar la agrobiodiversidad.

Palabras clave: Acahual, etnobotánica, medios de vida, México, conocimiento ecológico tradicional, Vanilla pompona

Traditional knowledge on the plant ingredients of an indigenous herbal dish from Beni Haoua region, northern Algeria

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: The coastal Mediterranean region of Beni Haoua, located in Chlef province, north Algeria, is recognized with rich culinary heritage exploring wild and cultivated plant resources, but not sufficiently documented. This research is undertaken to inventory and document the indigenous knowledge of a unique local herbal dish from the region named Khobbiz/Lahchich.

Methods: Ethnoculinary data were collected through survey with 52 autochthonous women from the region of Beni Haoua. Relative frequency of citation (RFC), growth habits, growth status, plant parts used, and preparation method were documented, alongside cultural practices related to the traditional dish.

Results: The indigenous herbal dish is prepared from 14 edible plant species, predominantly wild taxa (64.3%), while cultivated herbs account for 35.7%. These species belong to nine botanical families, with Asteraceae being the most represented (28.57%), followed by Apiaceae and Amaryllidaceae (14.28% each). Most edible plants exhibit a herbaceous growth habit (92.9%), whereas trees represent only 7.1%. Leaves constitute the principal plant part used (68.8%), granting the characteristic green color to the dish. They are followed by bulbs (12.5%), oil, fruits, and seeds (6.2% each). Traditional knowledge also highlights a specific method for preparing olive oil and barley-derived products incorporated into the Khobbiz/Lahchich dish.

Conclusions: This study revealed a specific traditional dish made totally from vegetarian ingredients in Beni Haoua region. This dish merits valorization by phytochemical and nutritional investigations to unravel their characteristics and therapeutic properties.

Keywords: Wild edible plants; Culinary tradition; Mediterranean diet; Beni Haoua; Chlef province.

Ethnomedicinal uses, quantitative analysis, and therapeutic potential of Punica granatum peel in Tunisia: An ethnobotanical study

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Punica granatum L. peel is widely used in Tunisian traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments. Despite its extensive use, comprehensive ethnobotanical studies integrating quantitative indices and statistical approaches remain limited.

Methods: Ethnobotanical data were collected through semi-structured interviews with local informants. The ethnomedicinal importance of P. granatum peel was assessed using Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), Fidelity Level (FL), and Informant Consensus Factor (ICF). Statistical analyses were performed to examine associations between informant characteristics and knowledge distribution. Cluster-robust logistic regression was applied to investigate relationships between socio-demographic factors, usage patterns, and reported disease categories.

Results: P. granatum peel was mainly used for gastrointestinal and dermatological disorders. High ICF values indicated strong agreement among informants regarding plant use, while elevated FL values reflected specific and well-defined therapeutic applications. Knowledge distribution varied across socio-demographic groups, with reported knowledge appearing higher among older participants, although this trend should be interpreted cautiously due to their limited representation in the online survey sample.

Conclusion: This study highlights the ethnomedicinal relevance of P. granatum peel in Tunisia. The strong consensus among informants supports its traditional therapeutic relevance and provides a scientific basis for future pharmacological and phytochemical investigations.

Keywords: Punica granatum peel; ethnobotany; quantitative ethnobotany; traditional medicine; gastrointestinal disorders; Tunisia.

A socio-ecological analysis of Mikania micrantha management in eastern Nepal: perceptions, practices, and programs at local level

Fri, 01 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Invasive alien species threaten biodiversity, ecosystem services, and forest-dependent livelihoods, yet integrated socio-ecological management approaches remain limited. We combined local ecological knowledge (LEK) with field experimentation to evaluate and manage the invasive vine Mikania micrantha in eastern Nepal’s lowland forests, to develop a scalable, community-led control model.

Methods: We employed a socio-ecological design integrating household surveys (n=129) across seven Community Forest User Groups (CFUGs) with a 15-month (October 2020 to December 2021) randomized block experiment testing three mechanical treatments (slashing, uprooting, burning) against an untreated control across 96 plots (1-m²). Ordinal logistic regression identified sociodemographic drivers of perceived invasiveness and livelihood impacts. Vegetation monitoring assessed treatment efficacy and native species recovery, and labor inputs were used to estimate management costs.

Results: Our study revealed that 94.6% of respondents were aware of the species, and 57.4% reported high livelihood impacts. Occupation emerged as the strongest predictor of perceived spread and livelihood effects, with laborers and office workers reporting significantly higher perceived impacts (p < 0.01). The ethnobotanical survey showed widespread usage (93.7%), mainly used for feeding livestock (fidelity level = 71.3%), followed by bedding material (13.2%), medicinal uses (6.2%), and manure (3.1%). The use of mechanical control measures led to an increase in the number of native species (p < 0.001), which more than doubled within one year, while M. micrantha cover decreased by 57% due to uprooting. However, management costs varied substantially (USD 176-425/ha). Crucially, the community-preferred method (uprooting; 46% perceived efficacy) aligned with experimental evidence of maximum effectiveness, validating LEK as a reliable guide for intervention design.

Conclusions: Combining LEK with experimental verification provides an approachable way for community-driven management. A zonation approach involves zoning of areas where slashing is cost-effective in outer zones, along with focused uprooting efforts in zones with rich biodiversity, which can result in ecological restoration while being financially manageable by forest-dependent communities.

Keywords: Ecological Knowledge, Invasive Alien Species, Mechanical management, Uprooting, Cost Efficiency

Ethnomedicinal uses and phenotypic attributes of four Viola species from the Kashmir Region

Fayeem Aadil, Fayaz Ahmad Dar, Ehtishamul Haq, Reiaz Ul Rehman — Sun, 24 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Abstract

Background: The Violaceae family consists of the flower-bearing taxa Viola, which is mostly utilized in Kashmir region to treat respiratory disorders and hold substantial ecological and cultural importance. Viola species (Viola odorata L., Viola biflora L., Viola canescens Wall. ex. Roxb. and Viola indica W. Becker) are widely distributed in the Himalayan regions of India, Pakistan, Iran, Afghanistan, Nepal, China, Bhutan, Europe and other Asian countries. Their wide geographical distribution, coupled with significant morphological diversity, has made the genus an important subject in taxonomy, phylogeny, ethnobotany and pharmacological research.

Methods: In the present study, four commonly found species of Viola genus which include V. odorata L., V. biflora L., V. canescens Wall. ex. Roxb. and Viola indica W. Becker, were compared based on their ethnomedicinal uses and phenotypic traits. These Viola species are traditionally used as herbal remedies to relieve respiratory ailments, reduce inflammation and pain and promote relaxation and sleep in local Unani and Ayurvedic practices in the Kashmir region. Further, the standardized trait descriptors (11 qualitative and 9 quantitative) were used to assess the extent of variation among the four Viola species.

Results: The phenotypic attributes revealed significant morphological differences among the four Viola species based on analysis of qualitative traits. Besides, PCoA and cluster analysis grouped four Viola species into two major groups. Group I comprise Viola indica W. Becker and group II consists of three Viola species (V. canescens Wall. ex. Roxb., V. ordorata L. and V. biflora L.).

Conclusions: The study suggested that the Kashmir region has a rich interspecific diversity of Viola species, which needs to be conserved for the maintenance of ecological balance and exploring its potential therapeutic applications.

Keywords: Ethnomedicinal potential, Himalayan region, Phenotypic attributes, Trait descriptors, Viola species

Ethnopharmacological study of plants used in Diabar region, Azerbaijan

Sun, 24 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Medicinal plants play an important role in traditional healthcare systems worldwide, and ethnopharmacological studies are essential for documenting traditional knowledge. The Diabar region in Azerbaijan's Talysh mountains possesses a rich heritage of traditional medicine; however, such knowledge remains largely undocumented. This study aimed to systematically record and analyze the medicinal plants used by local communities in this under-researched area.

Methods: Ethnobotanical data were collected from 140 participants across 21 villages using semi-structured interviews and field surveys. Quantitative indices, including Use Value (UV) and Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), were calculated to assess plant importance.

Results: The research documented 205 plant species from 60 families used to treat various ailments. The most cited families were Asteraceae (30 species) and Lamiaceae (20 species). Cydonia oblonga recorded the highest RFC (0.90). The most frequently treated conditions were cough (67 reports), digestive disorders (55), and inflammation (53). Quantitative analysis highlighted species with high cultural significance; notably, Cydonia oblonga also demonstrated a high Use Value (0.89), alongside Thymus trautvetteri (UV = 0.70) and Morus nigra (UV = 0.71). The data further revealed significant use of plants for liver disorders, infections, and as sedatives.

Conclusions: This study provides the first comprehensive inventory of medicinal plants in the Diabar region, preserving valuable traditional knowledge. The findings identify culturally important plants that warrant further phytochemical and pharmacological research to validate their therapeutic applications and potential for drug development.

Keywords: Azerbaijan, Diabar, ethnobotany, ethnopharmacology, medicinal plants, Talysh.

Traditional medicinal plant knowledge under anthropogenic pressure: evidence from the Middle Syrdarya botanical-geographical district, Uzbekistan

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Strong anthropogenic transformation in semi-arid regions substantially alters native vegetation and threatens traditional medicinal plant knowledge. The Middle Syrdarya botanical-geographical district represents one of the most intensively modified landscapes in Central Asia, where natural ecosystems have largely been replaced by agroecosystems. Integrated assessments are therefore required to evaluate medicinal plant diversity, adventive components, and the persistence of ethnobotanical knowledge under such conditions.

Methods: Field surveys were conducted between 2021 and 2025 across major landscape types of the Middle Syrdarya region. Medicinal plant species were recorded using floristic inventories, herbarium collections, and semi-structured interviews with local informants. Taxonomic composition, functional use categories, and adventive status were analyzed. The proportion of adventive species was applied as an indicator of floristic transformation, and functional traits were evaluated to assess ecosystem-related services of medicinal plants.

Results: A total of 245 medicinal plant species belonging to 158 genera and 47 families were documented. Asteraceae (49 species), Fabaceae (19), and Lamiaceae (17) were the most species-rich families. Fifty-six species (22.9%) were identified as adventive, indicating pronounced anthropogenic influence on regional flora. Adventive representation was highest in Solanaceae (71.4%) and Malvaceae (54.5%), while no adventive medicinal species were recorded in Polygonaceae. Functional analysis revealed dominance of weed and melliferous species, suggesting that medicinal resources are increasingly derived from secondary and agroecosystems. Traditional knowledge was found to be reorganized around ecologically plastic and widespread species, whereas narrowly adapted aboriginal taxa are gradually disappearing from local practice.

Conclusions: The high proportion of adventive medicinal plants reflects reduced ecosystem stability and ongoing floristic restructuring in the Middle Syrdarya region. Medicinal plants and associated traditional knowledge act as sensitive bioindicators of anthropogenic transformation. These findings provide a scientific basis for monitoring, conservation prioritization, and sustainable management of medicinal plant resources in transformed semi-arid landscapes.

Keywords: Ethnobotany; medicinal plants; anthropogenic transformation; adventive species; traditional knowledge; ecosystem resilience; land-use change; Middle Syrdarya region; Uzbekistan

Khilek Curry and the Full-Moon Medicine: Ethnobotanical notes on the Senna siamea ritual of Nakhon Chum, Thailand

Prateep Panyadee, Anusorn Tipayanon — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Senna siamea (khilek) is a common bitter vegetable and medicinal plant in mainland Southeast Asia. In Nakhon Chum, Kamphaeng Phet Province, a unique full-moon ritual known as Pli Ya transforms the local khilek curry (kaeng khilek) into a medicinal dish believed to protect health and bring good fortune.

Methods: Ethnobotanical data were collected through semi-structured interviews with community elders, direct observation of the 2025 Pli Ya ritual, and photographic documentation. Field notes were supported by informal discussions with local cooks and ritual participants.

Results: Households prepare kaeng khilek using young buds gathered before sunrise on the full moon of the twelfth lunar month. The curry, shared within the community, symbolizes both food and medicine, reflecting beliefs that moonlight enhances the plant’s healing properties.

Conclusions: The Pli Ya tradition of Nakhon Chum illustrates the fusion of ecology, belief, and healing in Thai ethnobotany. It exemplifies how ritual timing and shared food practices sustain cultural memory and the concept of “food as medicine.”

Keywords: Senna siamea, khilek, full-moon ritual, ethnobotany, Thailand

Ethnobotanical and biophysical properties of wood species used in the traditional Uzbek cradle (beshik)

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Traditional infant care systems constitute an important component of cultural heritage shaped by long-term interactions between human societies and their natural environment. In Central Asia, the Uzbek cradle (beshik) represents a distinctive traditional infant care device that integrates cultural practices with ecological and functional design. Despite its widespread use, the ethnobotanical basis and biophysical properties of materials employed in cradle construction remain insufficiently investigated.

Methods: Ethnobotanical data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 46 traditional craftsmen across four regions of Uzbekistan (Tashkent, Fergana, Samarkand, and Kashkadarya). The study integrated ethnographic observations, literature analysis, and comparative assessment of material properties. Tree species used in cradle construction were identified and taxonomically verified using international botanical databases, and their functional and cultural roles were systematically analyzed.

Results: The study identified four principal tree taxa used in cradle construction: Salix spp., Populus spp., Morus alba L. and Juglans regia L. Among these, Salix spp. was the dominant material, accounting for approximately 89-90% of cases, primarily due to its high elasticity, low density, and ease of processing. In contrast, Morus alba and Juglans regia were mainly associated with symbolic and cultural functions. Structural analysis demonstrated that the cradle incorporates a semi-arched support system capable of generating rhythmic, low-amplitude oscillations, which may contribute to infant stabilization and comfort. Additionally, ethnobotanical practices involving aromatic and medicinal plants were documented.

Conclusions: The findings indicate that the Uzbek cradle represents an integrated system shaped by traditional ecological knowledge, combining functional material selection with cultural values. This interdisciplinary approach elucidates the relationships between plant resources, traditional craftsmanship, and infant care practices, and provides a scientific basis for future research on ethnobotanical systems and biofunctional design.

Keywords: ethnobotany; traditional ecological knowledge; cradle; wood properties; Central Asia; infant care; biomaterials; biomechanics

Ethnobotany and mining heritage: The case of Aljustrel

Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Aljustrel is a mining town located in southern Portugal, within the Iberian Pyrite Belt and since the Antiquity the local geological resources have been exploited. As in most human communities, plants sustained the miners’ health, diet, and labor. Plants helped to address the hard conditions of mining life, because respiratory illnesses and wounds were very common and were treated with local medicinal plants. Besides healing, local flora was used in traditional soups and stews, providing nutrition. These practices revealed a deep interdependence between miners and plants who helped them in a demanding and harsh profession and were also seen as cultural elements of their community. In this study, miners and their families selected the plant species they considered most significant, both for their utilitarian functions and their cultural value, during periods of active labour and close engagement with the mining environment.

Keywords: Miners and plants, Aljustrel, material culture, traditional knowledge, medicinal plants

Khiam (Cotylelobium lanceolatum) as a bittering and preservative wood in Nipa (Nypa fruticans) sugar and alcohol production in Southern Thailand

Prateep Panyadee, Supalak Pumikong, Henrik Balslev — Sat, 30 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Although khiam (Cotylelobium lanceolatum) is locally recognized as a preservative in palm sap processing, its deliberate use as a bittering material has received little attention. This note documents its dual role in nipa sugar making and community alcohol production in Pak Phanang, southern Thailand.

Methods: Ethnobotanical fieldwork was conducted in 2025 in nipa-producing communities of the Pak Phanang River Basin. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with local sugar producers and distillers (n = 6) and through direct observation of tapping, boiling, fermentation, and distillation practices.

Results: Producers used small amounts of khiam during nipa sugar processing to help maintain sap quality and to impart a slight bitter-astringent note that contributes to a balanced “three-taste” profile. In alcohol production, substantially larger amounts were added during fermentation to prevent souring and to produce a stronger, bitter taste with a more pronounced character. Producers deliberately adjusted the quantity of khiam according to the intended product, showing a clear empirical understanding of dose-dependent effects on both fermentation outcome and flavor.

Conclusions: This study highlights a previously undocumented or little-documented dimension of khiam use: its deliberate management as a bittering and fermentation-modifying material, not merely a preservative.

Keywords: Ethnobotany; Asteraceae, Indigenous communities; Human diseases, Herbal medicine

Spatio-temporal evolution of health-related ethnobotanical studies in Morocco since 1991: Quantitative analysis of more than 420 studies as a basis for biochemical and microbiological research on medicinal plants

Sun, 07 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Historically, Moroccan ethnobotanical and ethnopharmacological research has benefited human health and continues to provide a valuable foundation for biochemical and microbiological investigations.

Methods: A critical analysis of ethnobotanical and ethnopharmacological field studies conducted between 1991 and October 2025 was performed using major databases (Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and others). Publications were categorized by year and region and analyzed using principal component analysis (PCA), clustering, slope trend analysis, and evaluation of links between ethnobotanical surveys and biochemical or microbiological studies.

Results: A total of 423 studies were analyzed, showing a marked increase in publications after 2010, particularly since 2015. Research is concentrated in northern and central regions, notably Fez–Meknes (32.5%), while southern regions remain underrepresented. Ethnobotany Research and Applications accounts for 15.4% of publications, and Lamiaceae are the most studied species. A strong link was observed between ethnobotanical inventories and subsequent biochemical and microbiological analyses, confirming their role as a source for experimental research. PCA explains 73.37% of total variance, revealing a spatial gradient between dynamic northern/central regions and less active southern regions, along with increased activity in recent years. Hierarchical clustering confirmed regional disparities, identifying Fez–Meknes as a major research hub and highlighting a clear temporal structure, with 2021–2025 representing a peak in scientific output.

Conclusions: Moroccan ethnobotanical research shows significant spatiotemporal disparities but has grown rapidly since 2010. It remains a key pillar for biochemical and microbiological studies, and further efforts are needed to explore still understudied regions.

Keywords: Morocco, Historical plant-population, Ethnobotany, Biochemical, Microbiological, Health.

From ethnobotany to biotechnology: Research trends on Myracrodruon urundeuva (Anacardiaceae)

Sun, 24 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Myracrodruon urundeuva is a resilient species native to Brazil and is distinguished by its phytochemical composition, rich in tannins and chalcones, which underpin its traditional use in women’s gynecological health. This intersection of ecological toughness and pharmacological relevance illustrates its strategic role in socio-biodiversity

Methods: This study applies a bibliometric approach to map the global literature on M. urundeuva, identifying publication trends, thematic evolution, and collaboration patterns. A total of 326 documents (1985-2023) from 172 journals were retrieved and analyzed using bibliometric tools.

Results: Publications increased at an annual rate of 5.62%, with an average document age of 10.4 years and 24.17 citations per article. Brazilian institutions dominate authorship, involving 1,149 contributors and a mean of 6.23 co-authors per publication. However, international collaboration remains low (4.9%). The high number of author keywords (933) and Keywords Plus (3612) indicates wide thematic diversity.

Conclusions: Research on M. urundeuva has expanded since 2010, supported by biodiversity policies and growing interest in sustainable bioproducts. This bibliometric overview provides an evidence-based foundation for guiding future research concerning this species.

Keywords: Anacardiaceae; Bibliometric analysis; Biodiversity; Pharmacology; Medicinal plants.

Taxonomy, traditional uses, phytochemical compounds and pharmacological activities of Juniperus phoenicea L. (Cupressaceae) complex in Algeria: A review

Fri, 01 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: In Algeria, Juniperus phoenicea L. presents taxonomic problems. This complex has been cited in various works by many Algerian researchers across various disciplines under several names. Notably J. phoenicea L., J. phoenicea L. subsp. phoenicea, J. phoenicea var. turbinata, and J. turbinata Guss. Some of these studies have focused on comparing morphological characteristics to test their variability, while other studies have concentrated on phytochemical and pharmacological activities without considering their variability.

Methods: Information related to the taxonomy, ethnomedicinal, ethnoveterinary, phytochemical and pharmacological properties of the complex J. phoenicea in Algeria was systematically collected using relevant keywords from online databases such as Google Scholar, Science Direct, Web of Science, Springerlink, PubMed, Scopus, Algerian flora and theses.

Results: J. phoenicea L. considered one of the plant species with numerous biological activities and containing many valuable bioactive compounds, which has generated considerable interest among researchers. Furthermore, it plays an important role in the Algerian population because of its use in traditional human and animal medicine.

Conclusions: Future studies should incorporate genetic and molecular approaches to clarify the taxonomic variability of this complex and ensure accurate species delimitation. Integrating these data with ethnobotanical and phytochemical research is essential to improve the reliability of its biological and traditional use assessments.

Keywords: Red juniper, systematic, ethnobotany, ethnoveterinary, phytochemistry, pharmacological properties, Algeria.

The ethnobotany of honey-based plant remedies: A systematic review of Plant–Honey–Human Therapeutic Interactions

Ahmed Ouaamr, Mohamed El Yaagoubi, Kamal Takhdat, Hafid Arzoug, Katim Alaoui — Thu, 07 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Honey is widely used in traditional medicine, but often as a carrier and therapeutic matrix for medicinal plants rather than as a standalone agent. Despite the recurrence of these combinations in ethnobotanical literature, their diversity, indications, dosage forms, and level of scientific validation have not been synthesized systematically.

Methods: Following PRISMA 2020, we searched Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, PubMed/MEDLINE, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar from database inception to 31 December 2025 for peer-reviewed studies reporting traditional use or experimental/clinical evaluation of remedies combining honey with medicinal plants. Ethnobotanical, experimental, and clinical studies in English or French were eligible. Data were extracted on geography, taxa, plant parts, preparation forms, indications, and level of evidence. Because of heterogeneity, findings were synthesized narratively.

Results: Thirty-four studies met the inclusion criteria. They reported 79 plant species in 42 families, with strongest representation from North Africa and the Middle East and from South and Southeast Asia. Frequently cited taxa included Nigella sativa, Zingiber officinale, Allium sativum, Thymus vulgaris, Curcuma longa, and Eucalyptus globulus. Main dosage forms were powder-honey mixtures, syrups, macerations, and medicinal pastes. Respiratory disorders, gastrointestinal complaints, and wound or skin conditions were the dominant therapeutic categories. More than half of the included studies reported experimental or preclinical support, whereas clinical evidence remained limited.

Conclusions: Honey-based plant remedies may be interpreted as part of a broader biocultural therapeutic framework shaped by the interaction between plant metabolites, honey as a therapeutic matrix, and locally transmitted medical knowledge. Recurrent plant-honey combinations provide priority leads for phytochemical standardization, pharmacological testing, and future clinical evaluation.

Keywords: apitherapy; ethnobotany; ethnopharmacology; honey; medicinal plants; traditional medicine; honey-based plant remedies; systematic review

Traditional medicinal uses, diversity, and conservation status of Malagasy aromatic plants: a review

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Madagascar is a global biodiversity hotspot, with high plant endemism. Aromatic plants are crucial for traditional medicine and for economic applications, including essential oils, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical products. However, habitat loss, overharvesting, and climate change threaten many species, and comprehensive nationwide assessments remain scarce. This study aims to provide an updated synthesis of the diversity, medicinal uses, and conservation status of Malagasy aromatic plants.

Methods: A literature-based review was conducted using 314 scientific and technical references, including peer-reviewed publications, books, theses, and institutional reports. Aromatic species were identified through essential-oil analyses, botanical descriptions, and herbarium records. Taxonomic and ecological information was compiled from the Catalogue of the Plants of Madagascar and conservation data from the IUCN Red List. Traditional medicinal uses were extracted from the CNARP database and quantified using citation frequency indices. Relationships among plant parts, disease categories, and bioclimatic distribution were explored using Correspondence Factor Analysis.

Results: This study documented 1,021 aromatic species across 285 genera and 68 families, on which 70.5% are endemic to Madagascar. Shrubs were dominant with a percentage of 47%. Essential oil composition has been reported for only 34.5% of species. Traditional medicinal uses were recorded for 473 species, commonly used in infectious diseases, digestive disorders, and traumatic injuries. Among the species assessed by the IUCN, nearly 68% fall within threatened categories (Critically Endangered [CR], Endangered [EN], and Vulnerable [VU]), indicating substantial conservation concern. Conclusions: Malagasy aromatic flora is highly diverse, medicinally important, and economically valuable, largely threatened. Ex situ conservation and sustainable cultivation of endemic species can reduce pressure on wild populations while supporting local and national economies. This study provides a critical foundation for integrated strategies in research, conservation, and sustainable utilization of aromatic plants, ensuring their continued contribution to traditional medicine and potential pharmacological innovation.

Conclusions: Malagasy aromatic flora is highly diverse, medicinally important, and economically valuable, largely threatened. Ex situ conservation and sustainable cultivation of endemic species can reduce pressure on wild populations while supporting local and national economies. This study provides a critical foundation for integrated strategies in research, conservation, and sustainable utilization of aromatic plants, ensuring their continued contribution to traditional medicine and potential pharmacological innovation.

Keywords: Madagascar, aromatic plants, diversity, endemism, conservation status, medicinal uses, sustainable management

Ethnobotany and archaeobotany significance of Oriental hackberry (Celtis tournefortii Lam.) in Anatolia: From Neolithic traditions to modern applications

Hakan Demirbağ, Tolga Ok, Mustafa Yılmaz — Sun, 10 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Oriental hackberry (Celtis tournefortii Lam.) is a scattered tree species that generally exhibits a sparse distribution across various regions of Türkiye. Oriental hackberry is a tree species occurring in the natural flora of Anatolia and has been considered valuable throughout history in terms of nutrition, health, and cultural significance. This review study focuses on the ethnobotanical significance of the Oriental hackberry, which is a vital species particularly in arid and semi-arid areas.

Methods: In this study, archaeobotanical and ethnobotanical information related to Oriental hackberry -an ecologically significant species that lives in scattered form in nature and serves as a bridge between the past and the future- was compiled from printed sources. In addition, some ethnobotanical information obtained from field observations was also included.

Results: Archaeobotanical findings indicate that the fruits of this rare tree have been utilized as a food source in the Anatolian geography since ancient times, a tradition that persists to the present day. It is valued in agricultural areas as a boundary tree between farmland and for its shade. Furthermore, its fruits and leaves are traditionally utilized for medicinal purposes. In certain regions, the tree is accorded special cultural value and is protected with great diligence.

Conclusions: This research aims to compile various folk botanical (ethnobotanical) information about the Oriental hackberry before it is lost.

Keywords: Ethnobotany; Archaeobotany, Celtis tournefortii, Oriental hackberry, Anatolia

Floristic diversity of ethnomedicinally important Artemisia species in Pakistan: An extensive overview of their distribution across regions, native status and global conservation concerns

Adil Hussain, Syed Ali Imran Bokhari — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Pakistan is recognized for its rich diversity of medicinal plants, with the genus Artemisia representing an ecologically and ethnobotanically important component of the flora. This review synthesizes information on distribution of reported Artemisia species across Pakistan with emphasis on their native status and conservation concerns.

Methods: The data for this review was systematically searched across various reputable scientific databases, including Web of Science, Scopus, MEDLINE and ScienceDirect using specific keywords.

Results: Earlier floristic treatments, including the Flora of Pakistan, documented 38 Artemisia species from various regions. The present compilation records a total of 66 species, reflecting a substantial increase in documented diversity from Pakistan. Growth-form analysis shows that herbaceous taxa dominate the genus in Pakistan (34 species), followed by shrubs (15 species). Most species are perennial (48 species), while annuals constitute a smaller fraction (6 species) with a few species exhibiting biennial or mixed life cycles. According to Plants of the World Online (POWO), Artemisia species in Pakistan occur primarily in temperate, subalpine, subtropical and desert habitats indicating broad ecological adaptability across altitudinal and climatic gradients. Of the 66 species recorded, 45 are mentioned as native to Pakistan, whereas the native status of 21 species remains unclear. The Flora of Pakistan and POWO revealed 38 species listed in both but only 31 species are consistently shared, highlighting taxonomic inconsistencies. Conservation assessments are notably limited, with only 13 species (20%) evaluated at the global level.

Conclusion: The increase in reported species from 38 to 66 in Pakistan may reflect improved taxonomic resolution, expand geographic surveys and increased ethnobotanical research and may or may not be an expansion of the genus in Pakistan. To confirm this, future studies should prioritize underexplored regions resolve taxonomic ambiguities and integrate molecular and ecological approaches to better understand the diversity, conservation needs and expansion of the genus Artemisia in Pakistan.

Keywords: Artemisia, Ethnomedicinal significance, Distribution, Habitat, Native status, Global conservation status, Pakistan

Ethnomycological relevance, ecology, and bioactive potential of Stereum hirsutum: a review with emphasis on Central Asia

Tue, 19 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Stereum hirsutum is a widespread wood-inhabiting fungus whose ethnomycological significance remains fragmented and insufficiently synthesized, particularly in relation to Central Asia. Although the species is visually conspicuous and ecologically common, direct documentation of its traditional medicinal relevance remains limited compared with the expanding literature on its chemistry, bioactivity, and applied potential.

Methods: Published literature, taxonomic databases, and regional specimen-based records were critically reviewed to compile data on nomenclature, morphology, ecology, host associations, distribution, ethnomycological relevance, mycochemical diversity, and reported biological and biotechnological properties of S. hirsutum, with particular emphasis on Central Asia.

Results: Stereum hirsutum is broadly distributed and has been documented in Uzbekistan on multiple woody hosts, indicating substantial ecological plasticity. The available ethnomycological evidence suggests limited but credible traditional-use associations, especially in East Asia, whereas direct documentation from Central Asia remains scarce. In contrast, modern studies identify S. hirsutum as a chemically rich species producing sesquiterpenoids, benzoate- and depside-related aromatics, sterols, phenolics, organic acids, polysaccharides, fatty acids, minerals, and additional inducible metabolites revealed through strain-specific and co-culture approaches. These metabolites and extracts have been associated with antimicrobial, α-glucosidase-inhibitory, cytotoxic, antioxidant, acetylcholinesterase-related, and anti-inflammatory effects. Recent studies further extend the relevance of the species to ginsenoside biotransformation, lignocellulosic degradation, and symbiotic fungal systems.

Conclusions: Stereum hirsutum represents an ecologically widespread, chemically rich, pharmacologically promising, and biotechnologically relevant fungal resource whose ethnomycological importance remains under documented, particularly in Central Asia. Future voucher-supported field studies integrated with chemical profiling and bioactivity assessment are needed to connect ecological occurrence, local knowledge, and experimentally supported functions within a single regional framework.

Ethnobotany and the Productivity-Endurability Trade-off

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Ethnobotany serves as an exemplary interdisciplinary science, synthesizing concepts from botany, ecology, sociology, and ethnography to explore the complex relationships between human societies and plant resources. While ethnobotanical research frequently documents the superior sensory qualities, nutritional profiles, and medicinal potency of wild plants and traditional landraces compared to modern commercial varieties, these observations often lack a unified biological framework. This paper unifies these phenomena — along with the global dominance of annual plants as staple foods — within a framework of the productivity-endurability trade-off.

Methods: Rooted in the historical "law of compensation" proposed by Darwin and Wallace, this trade-off posits that biological resources allocated to one function, such as biomass accumulation (productivity), are necessarily withdrawn from others, such as stress tolerance and pest resistance (endurability). Drawing on J.P. Grime’s C-S-R Triangle theory, this study examines how artificial selection and agricultural intensification bypass environmental constraints, often resulting in highly productive crops with significantly reduced self-defense mechanisms.

Results: Through this theoretical lens, the preference for annual staples is revealed as a strategic selection for rapid reproductive output over the high metabolic costs of perennial longevity, which are only mitigated in tropical environments. Furthermore, the trade-off explains the diminished potency of cultivated medicinal and aromatic plants; in the absence of wild environmental stressors, plants downregulate the synthesis of costly secondary metabolites that define their flavor and therapeutic value.

Conclusions: The trade-off concept provides a comprehensive explanatory framework for key ethnobotanical observations, offering critical insights for the future of sustainable breeding and global food systems.

Keywords: Ethnobotany, Biological Trade-offs, Productivity-Endurability, C-S-R Theory, Plant Domestication, Secondary Metabolites

Integrating Spatial Availability into ethnobotanical research: Introducing the Spatial Availability Score (SAS)

Hamid Nazari; Rainer W Bussmann — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Ethnobotanical research has traditionally emphasized the documentation of cultural importance and patterns of plant use through indices such as the Relative Frequency of Citation and Use Value. While these metrics effectively capture cultural relevance within specific knowledge systems, they overlook an important dimension: the spatial availability of plant species beyond their original ethnobotanical context. Consequently, species with comparable ethnobotanical importance may differ substantially in their feasibility for future application in food systems, medicinal use, or local resource planning due to contrasting geographic distributions.

Methods: Here, we introduce the Spatial Availability Score (SAS), a quantitative index designed to integrate geographic availability into ethnobotanical assessment. SAS is calculated using species occurrence data to estimate the extent of occurrence after spatial outliers are identified and removed through a reproducible statistical procedure based on multivariate distance (Mahalanobis distance).

Results: The resulting measure is normalized within a defined geographic reference area, enabling comparison among species at spatial scales relevant to intended applications, from local to regional contexts. SAS is conceptually independent from existing ethnobotanical indices and is not intended to replace measures of cultural importance or use intensity. Rather, it provides complementary information on the spatial feasibility of ethnobotanical knowledge, allowing researchers and decision-makers to distinguish between culturally important species with restricted distributions and those that are geographically widespread. By explicitly incorporating biogeographic information into ethnobotanical analysis, SAS enhances the interpretability, transferability, and future-oriented relevance of ethnobotanical studies.

Keywords: Ethnobotany; spatial availability; species distribution; extent of occurrence; future food systems; biogeography

Floristic and ecological patterns of toxic vascular plants in Morocco

Khaoula Labrighli, Chouaib Moujahdi, Ouafae Benkhnigue, Jalal EL Oualidi — Thu, 07 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Toxic vascular plants constitute a significant yet under-documented component of Morocco’s floristic diversity. Despite their ecological importance and implications for public health, no recent nationwide synthesis has integrated floristic, ecological, and conservation data within a unified analytical framework.

Methods: This study presents an updated inventory and ecological analysis of toxic vascular plants reported in Morocco, based exclusively on critically evaluated bibliographic, taxonomic, and ecological sources. Species richness, taxonomic structure, biological spectrum, phenology, geographic distribution, habitat preferences, endemism, and conservation status were analyzed using a descriptive floristic–ecological approach.

Results: A total of 170 toxic species belonging to 124 genera and 51 families were documented, with a marked predominance of angiosperms (98.24%). Asteraceae, Fabaceae, Ranunculaceae, Apiaceae, Solanaceae, and Lamiaceae concentrate most taxa, while Euphorbia L. and Artemisia L. are the most species-rich genera. Therophytes (28.65%) and hemicryptophytes (21.05%) dominate the biological spectrum, reflecting adaptation to Mediterranean and semi-arid conditions. Flowering peaks occur mainly between March and June. Toxic taxa are widely distributed, with higher concentrations in semi-arid and sub-humid bioclimatic zones, particularly in the Rif, Middle Atlas, and Atlantic plains. Forests, matorrals, grasslands, rocky slopes, and ruderal habitats represent the principal ecological settings. Endemic taxa account for 15.8% of the recorded flora. Most species are classified as Least Concern, whereas a limited number fall within Threatened or Data Deficient categories.

Conclusions: This synthesis provides a comprehensive floristic–ecological baseline supporting biodiversity conservation planning, ecological monitoring, and the development of toxicovigilance strategies in Morocco.

Keywords: Toxic plants, vascular flora, plant ecology, floristic diversity, Morocco.