Folk Medicine Research Articles

Background: Centaurium erythraea Rafn. (C. erythraea) is a medicinal plant traditionally used in European folk medicine for the treatment of wounds, skin inflammations, and other dermatological conditions, in addition to its well-documented systemic antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. However, its topical applications remain insufficiently investigated, particularly using plant material collected from Romania. The purpose of this study was to prepare different ointment formulations containing C. erythraea Rafn. extract obtained from the aerial parts of the plant, using various excipients, and to evaluate their in vitro and in vivo efficacy. Methods: The phytochemical profile of C. erythraea extract was characterized using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS). The lyophilized extract was pre-dissolved in different solubilizing agents—Transcutol® P (diethylene glycol monoethyl ether), Capryol® 90 (propylene glycol monocaprylate), or a combination of both—and then incorporated into five ointment formulations. Texture analysis and an in vitro membrane diffusion study were performed. The antioxidant capacity of the formulations was assessed by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and total phenolic content (TPC) assays. Anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated in vitro using tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)-induced interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) production in human keratinocyte (HaCaT) cells, and in vivo using a carrageenan-induced rat paw edema model. Results: LC–MS/MS identified 18 polyphenolic compounds, with hyperoside (3.78 ± 0.05 µg/mL), protocatechuic acid (1.13 ± 0.06 µg/mL), chlorogenic acid (1.07 ± 0.06 µg/mL), and quercetin (0.53 ± 0.03 µg/mL) as the principal constituents. The formulation containing both Transcutol® P and Capryol® 90 exhibited the most pronounced antioxidant activity (65% DPPH inhibition; 69.71 ± 0.83 mg gallic acid equivalent/mL) and significantly reduced IL-1β levels by 45.7% compared to the inflamed control. In vivo, this formulation showed comparable anti-edematous effects to a methylprednisolone ointment. Furthermore, it demonstrated the highest skin permeation efficiency, with a quercetin diffusion coefficient of 35.12 × 10−5 cm2/min. Conclusions: These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of C. erythraea extract from aerial parts in topical formulations and underscore the enhancing role of Transcutol® P and Capryol® 90 in improving both the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties of bioactive compounds.

Mikania micrantha Kunth, a fast-growing invasive weed, has gained considerable scientific interest because of its diverse pharmacological properties. It is also referred to as Chinese creeper, American rope, bitter vine and climbing hemp vine and has traditionally been used in folk medicine across South America and Asia for treating wounds, fever, inflammation, skin infections and respiratory ailments. Phytochemical studies have identified a diverse range of bioactive compounds in plant, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, sesquiterpenes, alkaloids and essential oils. Recent studies have demonstrated that extracts from various parts of Mikania micrantha exhibit significant antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, wound healing, anti-fungal, cardioprotective, anti-depression, anti-helmintic and thrombolytic activities both in vitro and in vivo models. This review aimed to comprehensively evaluate the phytochemical constituents and therapeutic potential of Mikania micrantha, with a special focus on its bioactive compounds and their mechanisms of action. However, further studies are necessary to assess its toxicity, isolate active compounds and determine their clinical importance for therapeutic use. A comprehensive review was conducted using academic databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, Web of Science and Research Gate. Future investigations should emphasize comprehensive safety profiling and, formulation development to establish Mikania micrantha as a potential phytotherapeutic agent for therapeutic use.

Iranian Borage (Echium amoenum) is a medicinal plant with a wide spectrum of therapeutic properties, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects, which are commonly used in Iranian folk medicine for the treatment of sore throat, coughing, pneumonia, anxiety, and depression. In the present study, the capacity of aqueous extract of Iranian Borage (AEIB) to inhibit cytotoxic fibrillation of human insulin in vitro is investigated for the first time. Using LC-MS analysis, we identified caffeic acid and m-geranyl-p-dihydroxybenzoic acid as two main phenols and methylated derivatives of kaempferol and luteolin as the main flavonoids presented in AEIB. The impact of AEIB on the amyloid fibrillation and cytotoxicity of human insulin was examined using ThT fluorescence assay, circular dichroism spectroscopy, fluorescence microscopy, MTT-based cell viability assay, intracellular ROS content and mitochondrial membrane potential measurements, and hemolysis assay. The obtained results indicate that AEIB can significantly inhibit the amyloid assembly and cytotoxicity of human insulin. Based on the seeding experiments, we propose that binding to and stabilizing monomeric/partially unfolded species may be the main mechanism by which AEIB modulates fibrillogenesis of human insulin. Moreover, we found that green synthesis of metal-based nanoparticles is an effective strategy to improve the anti-amyloidogenic effects of AEIB. Molecular docking studies indicate the binding of two main constituents of AEIB to monomeric form of human insulin. Given significant neuroprotective effects of AEIB and its effectiveness in treatment of several neuropsychiatric disorders, and according to the obtained results, we believe that AEIB has the potency to be considered as a novel therapeutic drug for future research associated with neurodegenerative diseases.

Background: Fungal infections are a common health problem in tropical countries, including Indonesia, where the hot and humid climate favors the growth of pathogenic microorganisms. One of the fungi that frequently causes infections in women is Candida albicans, the main agent responsible for vaginal discharge. Synthetic antibacterial and antifungal compounds often cause side effects, adverse events, relatively high costs, and the risk of fungal resistance due to excessive use. This situation has encouraged people to return to natural ingredients (“back to nature”) as safer, more effective, and more economical alternatives. One plant with strong potential as a natural antifungal agent is citronella (Cymbopogon nardus). This plant is widely known as a cooking spice, massage oil ingredient, and traditional herbal remedy, and it is abundantly available in the Hutaginjang area, North Tapanuli Regency. Objective: This study aimed to formulate and evaluate a feminine hygiene preparation containing citronella extract and to test its antifungal activity against Candida albicans. Method: The research was conducted experimentally. Results: The results showed that all formulations met the physical property standards set by SNI, with viscosity ranging from 2000–50,000 cps and pH between 4.0–5.0, which is suitable for the vaginal area. Antifungal testing revealed that inhibition zones increased with higher extract concentrations—10%, 15%, and 20% extracts produced inhibition zones of 10.5 mm, 13.3 mm, and 17.1 mm, respectively. The 60% extract yielded a 22.5 mm inhibition zone (categorized as very strong), approaching that of the positive control ketoconazole (29.1 mm). Statistical analysis (Shapiro-Wilk, ANOVA, Tukey HSD, Duncan) indicated that the data were normal, homogeneous, and showed significant differences between treatments. Conclusion: It can be concluded that higher concentrations of citronella extract are more effective in inhibiting the growth of Candida albicans.

The global utilization of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has risen substantially in recent decades, with prevalence rates ranging between 10% and 76%. This study investigated CAM practices for self-care within the Ubud community in Bali by identifying their types, modalities, frequency, and purposes of use in daily life. A descriptive design with non-probability purposive sampling was implemented, employing the Complementary Therapies Use Questionnaire, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. A total of 425 respondents participated, with Balinese traditional remedies (56.9%) and massage (33.6%) identified as the most frequently utilized practices. Herbal remedies were most often used monthly (27.74%). Mind-body interventions, particularly religious prayer, were reported monthly by the majority (95.3%). Meditation and yoga were embedded in daily routines, reflecting Ubud's cultural emphasis on spiritual well-being. These findings highlight the relevance of biologically based therapies rooted in Balinese traditions and recommend integrating culturally embedded CAM practices into holistic nursing care. Future studies should examine diverse CAM modalities across broader populations to strengthen evidence-based and culturally responsive health care frameworks.

Salvia schimperi is widely used in Ethiopian folk medicine, particularly its raw and roasted seeds for treating ailments such as diarrhea. While numerous reports on its traditional uses and biological activities exist, limited chemical datasets are available on this plant. This study aimed to annotate and identify the phytochemical constituents in S. schimperi seed extracts. The ground samples of S. schimperi seeds (raw and roasted) were extracted with 80% methanol prior to metabolomic analysis using LCMS. Data processing and compound identification were conducted using MZmine, SIRIUS and XCMS platforms. Multivariate statistical analyses and biological targets prediction were carried out via XCMS, MetaboAnalyst, BindingDB and Therapeutic Target Databases. Annotation by SIRIUS based on ZODIAC, SIRIUS and confidence scores criteria, validated 99 of the 689 identified compounds. Among the compounds annotated by METLIN in XCMS, 105 were predicted to be of significant value based on multivariate analysis of MetaboAnalyst. Compounds annotated comprised of primary and secondary metabolites. Two alkaloid compounds (actinonin and indole acrylate) were identified as significant from SIRIUS and METLIN/MetaboAnalyst, with actinonin described as a potent antibacterial metabolite. To our knowledge, this study represents the first metabolomic fingerprinting of S. schimperi seed extracts, revealing diverse bioactive phytochemicals with nutritional and therapeutic potential. The consistent identification of actinonin suggests promising antibacterial applications. Roasting significantly alters the metabolite profile, reducing certain nutritional components such as isoleucine. These findings underline the importance of processing methods in determining phytochemical composition and bioactivity. Further research would explore the toxicity and potential functional food applications.

Context: Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) face growing challenges due to parasite resistance and the declining efficacy of available treatments. For diseases such as Chagas and malaria, limited private sector investment further hinders therapeutic innovation, reinforcing the urgent need for more effective interventions. Aims: To analyze the antiprotozoal potential of known medicinal species by providing novel insights into their biological activities. Methods: Five ethnomedicinal plant species were selected based on their limited documentation regarding antiprotozoal activity. Twenty crude extracts were obtained by maceration with solvents of increasing polarity from the branches of Anchietea salutaris A. St.-Hil. and Davilla rugosa Poir., and the aerial parts of Banisteriopsis argyrophylla A. Juss., Grindelia robusta Nutt. and Pyrostegia venusta (Ker Gawl.) Miers. The extracts were tested in vitro against Trypanosoma cruzi, Leishmania amazonensis, and Plasmodium falciparum and evaluated for cytotoxicity to determine selectivity indexes (SI). Results: In the preliminary screening at 25 µg/mL, all species exhibited some antiprotozoal activity. None of the extracts were considered active against T. cruzi. Hexane and dichloromethane extracts from A. salutaris, B. argyrophylla, and D. rugosa demonstrated potent antiplasmodial effects (IC50  9.2 g/mL; SI ≥ 22). Additionally, the dichloromethane extract of G. robusta showed strong activity against L. amazonensis (IC50 = 2.2 g/mL; SI = 78). Conclusions: These findings highlight the potential of underexplored medicinal plant species as sources of bioactive compounds for developing treatments for NTDs.

Elucidating the underlying therapeutic mechanism of Feikang prescription on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: insights from a comprehensive analysis.

Glycyrrhiza glabra L. is a species widely spread all over the world, with a long tradition of use in folk medicine. Here, raw and hydrolyzed extracts obtained from roots collected in different geographical areas belonging to the Mediterranean basin were standardized as regards the amount of three main compounds: glycyrrhizin, the most abundant triterpene saponin of licorice, the 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid and the chalcone isoliquiritigenin. Raw and hydrolyzed extracts, as well as their pure single compounds, were investigated for their potential anti-inflammatory properties. The hydrolyzed extracts significantly reduced the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-6, NO mediator in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. Moreover, they were able to inhibit JAK2 and STAT3 phosphorylated proteins more than pure single standards tested at the same final concentrations, displaying a strength synergism of action. These findings suggest that G. glabra extracts and, more specifically, the hydrolyzed ones could represent interesting sources of potential anti-inflammatory agents able to inhibit the JAK/STAT signaling pathway.

Preservation of Kazakhstan biodiversity, characterised by a variety of bioresources, is among the key national interests of the state. Medicinal plants making up a quater of all vascular plants in Kazakhstan, are an irreplaceable natural resource capable of providing raw materials for the domestic pharmaceutical and food industries. Literature screening of natural flora conducted in 2012–2014 indicates a low degree (10 %) of study of wild medicinal plant resources on the territory of the Republic. Of 1406 Kazakhstan medicinal plants, only 230 species are used in official medicine, the rest are used in folk or experimental medicine. For most of the demanded species, modern resource studies with assessment of the ecological state of natural populations are required. Due to predatory harvesting of economically important species of medicinal plants, their export from the country and increasing exploitation pressure, 65 species are included in the Red Book of the Republic of Kazakhstan as rare, endemic or endangered. There is a lack of up-to-date data on medicinal plants of Kazakhstan with an assessment of species and phytocenotic diversity, phytochemical and resource potential. To develop a strategy for sustainable use and conservation of plant resources of the country, primarily ecosystems of economically valuable, intensively exploited, as well as endemic, rare and endangered species of medicinal plants, it is necessary to identify key areas of medicinal plants, characterised by saturation and species richnes, and provide a modern assessment of their potential for pharmaceutical needs. Modern assessment of medicinal plants of Kazakhstan will provide a scientific basis for inventory and state monitoring of plant world, strategy for conservation and optimisation of in situ and ex situ use of plants; optimal nature management that does not contradict the principles of sustainable development, long-term conservation of biodiversity and environmental sustainability.

ABSTRACTBackgroundPolygynous marriage is a socially and religiously recognized marital structure in Northern Nigeria, where cultural and religious beliefs play a central role in shaping family dynamics. This study explores sexual health challenges, power dynamics, and sexual health communication within polygynous marriages among Hausa Muslim men in Northern Nigeria, focusing on the interplay between male authority, cultural norms, and religious beliefs.MethodsUtilizing a qualitative approach, semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 24 men aged 40 and above, all married to two or more wives. Thematic analysis revealed key insights into how men navigate decision‐making, marital communication, and health management within these culturally complex relationships.ResultsMost participants downplayed the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), with only three explicitly acknowledging a confirmed STI case within the marriage. This low‐risk perception correlates with the near absence of formal healthcare engagement, as most men preferred self‐assessment or traditional remedies. The findings also indicate that male authority is central, with husbands often assuming autonomous control over time‐sharing, financial decisions, and sexual health practices. Although some husbands, though some selectively, consult wives to maintain household harmony, the educated wives are more assertive and subtly influence decisions. Communication about sensitive topics like sexual health is typically indirect, with nonverbal cues favored over explicit discussions, reflecting cultural norms of modesty and privacy. The study also highlights key challenges, such as performance strain, jealousy among co‐wives, and mismatched sexual appetites, which further complicate sexual health decision‐making and emotional well‐being in polygynous households.ConclusionFindings contribute to broader understandings of marital dynamics in polygynous contexts, illustrating how men's sexual health and relational strategies are informed by deep‐rooted cultural and religious frameworks. This research provides valuable insight for policymakers and practitioners working to support the unique needs of polygynous families in similar sociocultural settings.

PurposeExplore correlates of interest in and use of non-evidence-based practices (e.g., supplements, home remedies) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1s) for weight loss.DesignOnline cross-sectional survey.SettingHealthcare patients of a large academic health system in the Southeast United States.SamplePatients (N = 190) with BMI ≥30kg/m2.MeasuresInterest in and past use of non-evidence-based practices and GLP-1s for obesity, and psychosocial factors, such as distrust in pharmaceutical corporations, preference for naturalness (i.e., favoring approaches described as natural over conventional medications), and expected weight loss were measured.AnalysisBivariate associations and multivariable regressions.ResultsInterest in non-evidence-based practices was greater among women and Black/African American patients (P < 0.05) and positively associated with perception of social norms for use (P < 0.01) and weight loss expectations with use (P < 0.05). Past use of non-evidence-based practices was associated with greater pharmaceutical distrust (P < 0.05). Interest in GLP-1s was associated with lower education (P < 0.05) and naturalness preference (P < 0.01), and greater social norms (P < 0.001), weight risk perceptions, and weight loss expectations (P < 0.05). Past use of GLP-1s was associated with lower expected weight loss with GLP-1s (P < 0.05).ConclusionFindings can inform patient education to help steer patients towards evidence-based treatments and away from ineffective approaches.

Pereskia grandifolia, Cactaceae, is a plant native to temperate and tropical regions. Its leaves and fruits are utilized in food and traditional medicine due to their therapeutic and nutritional properties, which have garnered interest in both pharmaceutical and food industries. This review provides an overview of the current biomedical research on P. grandifolia, encompassing botanical and phytochemical aspects, traditional uses, nutritional evidence, in vitro and invivo preclinical pharmacological studies, and toxicological evaluation. Scientific articles were sourced from databases such as PubMed, Science Direct, SciELO, and Web of Science. Saponins, phenolic compounds, and alkaloids emerge as the main bioactive substances within P. grandifolia. Nutritionally, its leaves and fruits are valued for their high protein and fiber content. In traditional medicine, its leaves are employed to address various ailments, including headache, gastric pain, hemorrhoids, atopic dermatitis, inflammation, hypertension, diabetes, and cancer. In vitro studies on the species have demonstrated antioxidant, cytotoxic, and antimicrobial activity, along with the ability to inhibit the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. In vivo research corroborates its diuretic, antihypertensive, antiobesity, and molluscicidal effects. However, there is limited investigation into its toxicity, and notably, no reports of clinical studies with the species were found. In conclusion, while promising effects of P. grandifolia have been reported, further research is warranted to substantiate its efficacy in folk medicine as an anticancer, antidiabetic, and antihypertensive agent.

Abstract Seedy bananas are used as a traditional medicine in many Asian countries. Even though evidence for the presence of compounds with declared bioactivity in seedy bananas exists, direct assays to ascertain and identify bioactive compounds have not been undertaken so far. In this study, the effect-directed analysis after thin-layer chromatography was used to evaluate the anti-α-glucosidase and anti-acetylcholinesterase activity of seedy banana extracts. High-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC)‒bioautography revealed that the extracts indeed contained inhibitors of both studied enzymes. Four main compounds were isolated, and their structures were determined by mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Piceatannol, scirpusin A, scirpusin B, and cassigarol E (or its isomer, maackin) were confirmed. This study establishes the bioactivity of seedy bananas on the basis of the stilbenes, which strengthens the evidence for the folk medicine use of this plant.

Wound healing is a complex, multi-phased process that can be severely impaired by prolonged inflammation and infection, leading to chronic wounds with major clinical and economic burdens. Conventional therapies, including antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs, face limitations due to antimicrobial resistance and adverse side effects, creating a pressing need for safer and more effective alternatives. Earthworms, particularly Perionyx excavates, have been traditionally used in Asian folk medicine for treating wounds and inflammatory conditions. This study aimed to scientifically validate the therapeutic potential of P. excavates coelomic fluid (CF) through phytochemical characterization, in vitro anti-inflammatory assays, and in vivo wound-healing evaluation. Phytochemical screening revealed CF to be rich in proteins, phenolics, and flavonoids, with GC-MS identifying key bioactive compounds such as palmitic acid and oleic acid. In vitro assays demonstrated potent anti-inflammatory activity, with significant inhibition of protein denaturation, stabilization of red blood cell membranes, and suppression of nitric oxide production in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. In vivo, topical application of CF ointment significantly accelerated wound contraction, reduced epithelization period, and enhanced tissue regeneration in excision wound models of Wistar rats. Histopathological analysis confirmed superior collagen deposition and minimal inflammatory cell infiltration in CF-treated wounds. Collectively, these findings provide strong scientific evidence supporting the ethnomedicinal use of P. excavates CF as a multi-functional therapeutic agent with both anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. This research highlights the potential of earthworm-derived biomolecules as promising candidates for the development of novel wound care therapies.

The theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine originates from traditional medical practices and possesses a rich theoretical system and practical experience. However, with the development of modern technology, the theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine faces new challenges. The modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine theory requires not only the integration of traditional and modern science but also support from cutting-edge technologies such as biology, molecular biology, and information technology. This paper explores the pathways for modernizing Traditional Chinese Medicine theory, analyzes its transformation within the context of modern scientific advancements, and discusses the application of modern biology, big data, artificial intelligence, and other technologies in Traditional Chinese Medicine research. Furthermore, the article addresses the standardization and globalization of Traditional Chinese Medicine theory and predicts that, driven by precision medicine and personalized treatments, Traditional Chinese Medicine will enter a new era characterized by increased scientific rigor and systematic development.

This article follows three seventh-century monk-bishops and how each experienced bodily injury or sickness during crisis migration. It uses palimpsest manuscripts and metaphor to consider religion and medical health concerns within these narratives, practices, and interpretive legacies. Sophronius of Jerusalem, Theodore of Tarsus/Canterbury, and Cuthbert of Lindisfarne each endured forced travel as refugees, and each suffered illness or debilitating physical insult. Sophronius, known for his pro-Chalcedonian zeal, sought healing through what we might call folk medicine, and condemned professional physicians. Theodore, whose life and legacy reflects a diverse range of cultural and literary influences, supported Hippocratic-Galenic medicine in his ministry and teaching. Finally, Cuthbert, who practiced an elemental approach to healing, who welcomed both physicians and miracles, and whose post-mortem “incorrupt” body was unmade by pious friends and foes, offers a layered exegetical model of liturgical and therapeutic environmentalism. The palimpsest lens of these lives is compared here using three literal palimpsest manuscripts, each holding medical and scriptural texts within a pattern of disruption. This article’s multidisciplinary approach invites creative and serious discussions on the relationships between embodiment and scripture-based models for health equity and crisis response in religious history.

BackgroundThe Greater Khingan Mountains (GKM), located in the eastern Mongolian Plateau, are a multi-ethnic region predominantly inhabited by Mongolians, with the Han ethnic group forming the majority. The GKM serve as a vital plant germplasm resource and natural medicinal herb base in northern China. Through interactions with nature, Mongolians have developed distinctive traditional medicine cultures by discovering and utilizing wild plants for their healthcare, supported by oral traditions and practical knowledge accumulated over generations. This study comprehensively investigated the wild plants used in Traditional Mongolian Medicine (TMM) of the GKM, aiming primarily to: (1) promote the sustainable development and utilization of these plant resources by conducting an integrated assessment, and propose specific conservation strategies; (2) evaluate the commonalities and differences between TMM and local Mongolian Folk Medicine (MFM) applications, advance the protection and inheritance of traditional medicinal knowledge.MethodsFrom 2021 to 2023, multiple field investigations were conducted in the GKM to collect voucher specimens, which were integrated with the collation of previously collected specimens, taxonomic identifications, and also records of relevant literature, and the wild vascular plant species in this region were determined. On this basis, the inventory of the wild plants used in TMM of the GKM was established according to records in the Chinese Materia Medica: Mongolian Medicine Volume. By collating survey data from ethnobotanical studies in this region, the species and their utilization knowledge used by local Mongolians were obtained. The relevant information of the medicinal herbs that are industrially utilized by Mongolian Medicine pharmaceutical enterprises was obtained from their official websites. An Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) model was applied to quantitatively assess the development and utilization value of these resources.ResultsA total of 163 wild plant species used in TMM belonging to 118 genera and 55 families, dominated by Asteraceae, were identified in the GKM. Among them, herbaceous plants (87.73%) are predominant based on life forms, and mesophytes (77.30%) constitute the majority based on water ecotypes. In terms of distribution area, the southern regions hosted the highest species diversity (161 species), while there are no significant differences between the northern (138), eastern (135), and western (131) regions. A total of 133 Mongolian Medicine names correspond to 163 scientific species names, with 27 borrowed names derived from Tibetan, Chinese, and Sanskrit. Whole plants (77 species) and roots and rhizomes (43) are the primary medicinal parts that are harvested mainly in autumn. Among the total wild plant species used in TMM, 92 (56.44%) are used by local Mongolian folk, 69 (42.33%) are used industrially, while 50 (30.67%) have been documented in the literature but lack practical application. Among the 92 species used by local Mongolian folk, the medicinal parts of 31 species are identical to those in TMM, and 36 species partially similar to those in TMM, and the 25 species are different from those in TMM. The medicinal parts and effects of 8 species are different from the records in TMM. This area has a clear focus on the cultivation of wild medicinal plants, concentrating on the ecological cultivation of geo-authentic herbs. Based on the integrated assessment values, the species were categorized into four grades: highest value (36 species), high value (28), general value (69), and low value (30).ConclusionThe wild plants used in TMM of the GKM stand out for their rich plant diversity, widespread distribution area, exceptional medicinal value, and unique geo-authenticity. Mongolian Medicine names reveal multicultural integrations of the TMM. The comparison between TMM and local MFM not only confirms that traditional knowledge of MFM and TMM belongs to the same medical system, but also reveals valuable indigenous knowledge that unrecorded in the TMM. Locally and industrially used wild plants used in TMM demonstrate high utilization rates, reflecting their high medicinal value. Special attention should be given to underutilized species, particularly those documented in the literature but lacking practical application, to advance their large-scale utilization while ensuring effective conservation. Conservation strategies require the integration of strengthened legal regulations, public education and science popularization, nature reserve management, species-specific conservation initiatives, large-scale cultivation, and rational harvesting practices to achieve effective conservation and sustainable utilization of these invaluable resources.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13002-025-00802-3.

BackgroundDental service utilisation in Nigeria is low, with limited understanding of the contextual factors driving poor service utilisation. The study aimed to explore the influence of the intersection of Yorùbá traditions, oral health practices, and the utilisation of modern dental services.MethodsThis study employed a qualitative research design using a phenomenological approach. It used a virtual community reflexivity approach to explore personal understandings of traditional remedies, proverbs, taboos, and beliefs that shape oral health behaviours within Yorùbá communities. A community of practice was formed following a public call on five WhatsApp groups that engaged researchers and people interested in cultural practices. Discussions on perspectives on the link between Yorùbá orature, oral health practices, and dental service utilisation were facilitated over six weeks. The discussions were analysed inductively, and emerging themes were shared at a two-hour culture-oriented seminar for validation. The feedback from the validation meeting was used to finalise the manuscript.ResultsThe community of practice had 113 members, and the validation meeting had 122 attendees (58 physical and 64 online). Two themes and six sub-themes were identified through the inductive analysis. The first theme was ‘Cultural Significance of Dental Service Utilisation’ linked to four subthemes, namely: (i) Proverbs, Songs and Folklore, (ii) Taboos and Stigmatized Conditions, (iii) Home-Based Remedies, (iv) Spiritual and Herbal Practices. The second theme was ‘Modern Implications of Cultural Practices’ linked to two subthemes, namely: (v) Normalization of Pathologies, and (vi) Cultural Resistance to Modern Dentistry. The findings highlighted the cultural significance of oral health, with aesthetic and spiritual considerations often taking precedence over modern dental interventions. The routine use of herbal remedies at home is widespread, and the normalization of some dental pathologies results in a delay in seeking professional care. Stigmatisation associated with oral conditions further reinforces reliance on home-based remedies and delays in seeking care.ConclusionThe interrogation of Yorùbá orature suggests oral aesthetics have spiritual connotations for life and wellness, which makes oral self-care practices a routine part of the daily lives of the community. Modern dentistry programmes and practices need to foster culturally sensitive public health messages and strategies to improve the utilisation of oral health facilities for preventive care.

BackgroundToward the end of the late Middle Ages and into the early modern era, a variety of elixirs and potions for longevity with claimed medical effects were advertised by pharmacists and distributed throughout Europe. At the same time, there was an increasing emergence of handwritten commonplace books of home remedies, first among the aristocrats and rich merchants, then later among other populations, providing basic recipes for all types of common medical disorders. From a historical–pharmacological perspective, this study seeks to analyze a handwritten note encompassing a recipe detailing an herbal elixir for prolonged life that was written by a Swedish physician named Germes. It was discovered by the authors in an old herbal book purchased at a flea market in Germany. The note, composed of three pages, appears to be written in a type of German cursive handwriting. One study objective was to transcribe this note into Latin alphabet-based German and then further translate the document into modern English. Furthermore, this study aimed (a) to estimate the period of the note’s creation; (b) to contextualize Germes’ recipe in history regarding the contemporary understanding of the nature and effectiveness of such formulations; (c) to assess its uniqueness, and (d) to examine the criteria used by the original practitioner, and later by consumers, in order to evaluate the efficacy of such home remedies, while also analyzing how these perceptions evolved before and after creation of the handwritten primary source..MethodsThe transcription process was performed through manual reading and inputting into a word processing software, with guidance from several manuals. Historical placement of the note was achieved through the assessment of the calligraphic handwriting and analysis of terms and words that were specific for a certain time period. Contextualization was performed through a review of various primary sources on plant medicine and contemporary pharmacy.ResultsThe analysis of the transcribed note made it possible to narrow down its creation to 1770–1820. It tells the story of Germes, whose secret elixir recipe was found in his jacket after he fatally fell off his horse at the age of 104, with his family members also living exceptionally long, which all accredits to the panacea described. The note contains accurate descriptions of its preparation and methods of administration, and Germes’ elixir can be used in the treatment of a variety of medical disorders. Several similar recipes for elixirs for longevity were identified in the literature, with a contemporary remedy called “Swedish Bitters” being nearly identical in terms of ingredient composition. The origins of “Swedish Bitters” were traced back to the late seventeenth century or early eighteenth century, where it rapidly gained popularity in the European market, particularly in Germany. This may accredit the handwritten note’s creation, modification, and embellishment through retelling.