Glechoma hederacea (Lamiaceae): Key features in its native range, habitats, cultural significance, impacts and sustainability status

Abstract

The existence and sustainability of the ethbotanical plant species are among the most important resources for the world, especially considering hunger and economic contribution. Moreover, with the use of wild plant species for human and animal health for medical purposes, these plants’ importance are increasing. Therefore social awareness is important for the effective and sustainable use of the relevant species. The main reason for the emergence of this study is this social awareness. Here, we worked on Glechoma hederacea L., which we registered for the first time in Düzce in 2019 due to the environmental and socioeconomic impacts reported to us by the local people. The aims of this study to present the existence of G. hederacea, its habitats, some morphological, phenological data and the impact of the ethnobotanical use of the plant on its sustainability in native range. For this purpose, the plant was followed in Düzce central district between July 2019 and May 2020. As a result, it was determined that G. hederacea started flowering in March in Düzce and the flowering continued until the end of November. In Düzce, which is built on a plain, it has been determined that G. hederacea was widespread primarily in pastures, natural open areas, roadsides, open woodlands, tree edges, agricultural and urban habitats. Moreover, for the sustainability of the plant, it has been determined that villagers take some sub-regional measures against vegetation removal and even carry out small activities for plant propagation. However, the ratio between harvesting rate and planting is not sufficient. Considering this situation, awareness activities for G. hederacea as well as other plant species with ethnobotanical use and, when necessary, encouraging the production of the relevant native species for medical purposes will be useful.