Herbal Knowledge Research Articles

Ethnobotanical Documentation of Yerba Mate in Syria

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Yerba Mate (_Ilex paraguariensis_) is a traditional herbal beverage consumed for its stimulating effects and health benefits, with a deep cultural association in Syria following its introduction by migrants from South America in the early 20th century. This study documents the cultural, social, and health-related practices surrounding Yerba Mate in Syria, highlighting its integration into local customs and herbal preparations. OBJECTIVE: To explore and document the traditional uses, social practices, and preparation methods of Yerba Mate among Syrian consumers, and to investigate the health benefits and cultural significance attributed to it. METHODS: An electronic survey was distributed to 430 participants from different regions across Syria, collecting data on Yerba Mate consumption habits, social practices, reasons for use, perceived effects, and traditional preparation methods. Quantitative and qualitative data were analyzed using statistical software. The Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) index was used to assess the prevalence of herbal additives in Yerba Mate preparations. RESULTS: Yerba Mate is consumed regularly by 89.2% of participants, with health benefits being a key motivator for 60% of users. Syrian traditions enhance Yerba Mate with local and imported herbs, with 68.6% of regular drinkers incorporating herbs like wormwood (_Artemisia herba-alba_) and chamomile (_Matricaria chamomilla_), each offering specific health benefits. The survey revealed high consumption patterns, particularly in group settings (51.6%), and frequent daily use by 50% of participants. CONCLUSION: Yerba Mate has become a deeply rooted part of Syrian culture, with local adaptations that incorporate traditional medicinal herbs. These combinations not only enhance the health benefits of the drink but also reflect a blend of imported traditions with Syrian herbal knowledge. The study highlights Yerba Mate's social significance in Syria and suggests the need for further research into its potential therapeutic uses in traditional medicine. Given the unique Syrian practice of mixing Mate with various herbs, further investigation is needed to assess the differences in effects, flavor, and prevalence among these herbal combinations.

Practices and attitudes of herbalists regarding informed consent in Uganda: a qualitative study

BackgroundInformed consent (IC) is a fundamental principle in medical ethics that upholds respect for patient autonomy. Although widely applied in healthcare, its feasibility and implementation in herbal medicine have been underexplored. This study therefore aimed to explore the practices and attitudes of herbalists regarding informed consent.MethodsTo achieve these objectives, a qualitative cross-sectional study was conducted from June to December 2020. Twenty-one in-depth interviews with herbalists and four key informant interviews with leaders of the different traditional medicine organizations were conducted. The data were analyzed thematically using NVivo version 12 software.ResultsSixteen of the twenty-one participants acquired oral herbal medicine knowledge from their relatives. Although a positive inclination toward obtaining IC was evident, the focus was on disclosing basic information. Discussions of alternative treatments and herbal specifics were less frequent. Disease management decisions often involve shared responsibility within families or societies. Documented IC procedures are rare among herbalists, who deem consent forms unnecessary, although they recognize the potential benefits of IC in fostering trust and professionalism. Challenges hindering IC implementation included regulatory gaps, inadequate skills, and the absence of mechanisms to protect the intellectual property rights of herbal medicine.ConclusionThis study illuminates how educational, cultural, familial, and regulatory factors influence herbalists’ practices and attitudes toward informed consent.

Exploring folklore herbal knowledge: a compilation from Palakkad district, Kerala, India

Exploring folklore herbal knowledge: a compilation from Palakkad district, Kerala, India

Cross-cultural study on the uses of traditional herbal medicine to treat various women's health issues in Northeast India

BackgroundThis cross-cultural study conducted in the diverse regions of Assam, Meghalaya, and Manipur sheds light on the common utilization of five specific medicinal plants among indigenous communities residing in these areas. ObjectivesThe main focus of this study is to document and compare the traditional medicinal plant used and the knowledge and practices related to women's health issues in different cultures; to identify commonalities and differences in the use of medicinal plants across cultures and various medicinal plants used traditionally by the indigenous communities to treat women's health problems according to their indigenous name, scientific name. Materials and methodsThe study used a survey method and a pre-structured interview schedule through one-on-one interactive communication and field observation. The authors collected data from three different states, i.e., Assam (Karbi Anglong district & Udalguri district), Meghalaya (East Khasi Hills district), and Manipur (Senapati district) by personally meeting and interacting with traditional herbal medicinal practitioners. For this study, 10 practitioners from each area of study were interviewed. During the data collection process, the vernacular name of the medicinal plant, methods of preparation, mode of application, and probable dosage were compiled and documented involving practitioners belonging to four different communities, i.e, Bodo, Karbi, Khasi, and Poumai Naga of the selected states. ResultsA total of 39 plant species were meticulously collected and documented across the Karbi Anglong district and Udalguri district in Assam, East Khasi Hills district in Meghalaya, and Senapati district in Manipur. Turmeric (Curcuma longa), ginger (Zingiber officinale), gooseberry (Emblica officinalis), papaya (Carica papaya), and passion fruit (Passiflora edulis) have emerged as common medicinal resources within these communities. Poaceae, represented by 5 species, emerged as the dominant family among the collected plants, highlighting the diversity and significance of these botanical remedies. Zingiber officinale Roscoe " has the highest usage report of 18 with an RFC (Relative frequency citation) of 0.45. ConclusionThe study's findings reveal a rich repository of traditional herbal knowledge in the northeast regions of India. Notably, the indigenous communities of these regions use plant resources to cure a wide range of ailments. This study emphasizes the necessity of documenting, preserving, and transmitting traditional herbal medicinal knowledge for both cultural and practical reasons. It also provides vital insights into the importance of cross-cultural study in promoting different cultures, the richness of traditional medicinal knowledge by engaging with diverse cultures and demonstrates the possibilities for incorporating traditional medicine into modern healthcare systems, particularly in treating women's health issues across these culturally diverse regions.

Insights on Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Properties of Argania spinosa L. Skeels: A Comprehensive Review.

Across civilization, medicinal and aromatic plants have occupied an important place due to their extensive use in the treatment of different diseases. This review aims to summarize the existing knowledge about Argania spinosa L. Skeels by bridging traditional herbal knowledge with scientific investigations performed since 1957. Also, this review has shed light on the plant's botanical description and its partition in Morocco, followed by its traditional usage in southwestern Morocco and its socioeconomic importance for the local population. Furthermore, the present comprehensive review reported exhaustively the chemical composition of native and introduced Argania spinosa L. Skeels found in fixed oil, such as fatty acids, tocopherols, and phytosterols. Moreover, the bioactive compounds identified in other plant parts are also highlighted. Also, this review reports also techniques adopted in extraction, isolation, and purification and identification of biocompounds found in Argania spinosa L. Skeels. This review also sheds light on the pharmacological properties of this endemic plant of Morocco, such as antioxidant, antidiabetic, antibacterial, antiobesity, nanotechnology, and toxicity. Furthermore, a section of clinical trials performed on the plant products is also reported. Finally, this comprehensive review forms the backbone for future research on argan and its bioproducts, leading to improved health conditions and addressing future challenges.

Cultural Significance and Pharmacological Insights of Yunnan Ethnic Herbal Medicine: An Anthropological Perspective

Yunnan's ethnic herbal medicines possess potent pharmacological effects, offering promising treatments for various ailments while embodying rich cultural heritage. This paper explores the intricate nexus between Yunnan's ethnic medicinal materials, cultural traditions, and human ecology. Through theoretical analysis and comprehensive literature review, it elucidates the transmission and dissemination of herbal knowledge among diverse ethnic groups, highlighting the preferences for specific herbal medicines rooted in climatic, geographical, and cultural influences. The study delves into the profound cultural meanings embedded within herbal medicine practices, revealing their role as symbols of cultural identity, emotional ties, and historical inheritance among ethnic communities. Additionally, an anthropological perspective unveils the complex interplay between culture, ecology, and herbal medicine practices, shedding light on environmental challenges and emphasizing the importance of sustainable living practices rooted in cultural values. While providing valuable insights, this study acknowledges the limitations of relying solely on theoretical analysis and literature review, advocating for interdisciplinary approaches integrating ethnographic fieldwork and biomedical research for a comprehensive understanding of herbal medicine use in Yunnan.

After The COVID-19 Pandemic, Nurses' Attitudes Toward The Use Of Herbs For Seasonal Influenza in Türkiye

Objective: This study aims to examine the attitude of nurses toward the use of herbal therapies for seasonal influenza after the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This descriptive study was completed with 153 nurses working in shifts at the university hospital. This study was conducted between April 1, 2023, and May 1, 2023. The data were collected in the form of an online questionnaire with the "Introductory Information Form" prepared by the researchers in line with the literature, and the "Attitudes Towards Using Complementary Therapies Scale". Results: The mean age of the participants was 31.84±6.32 years. Among the nurses who participated in the study, 58.2% stated that they had COVID-19 disease in the previous years (2019–2022), and 41.8% had seasonal flu this year (2023). The majority of nurses (91.5%) reported knowing herbal methods, and 39.2% reported using social media as a source of herbal method information. Demographic factors did not significantly affect COVID-19 and seasonal influenza status, herbal treatment knowledge or use. However, gender, education and marital status played a role in participation in herbal treatment. Conclusion: In this study, it was found that nurses who experienced seasonal influenza after the COVID-19 pandemic had positive attitudes toward the use of herbal treatment during influenza. The most frequently used methods for herbal treatment include herbal teas, the use of herbal oils, and mixtures. In the study, it was found that nurses used rosemary tea, chamomile oil, and black cumin honey mixtures the most, respectively.

EVALUATION OF PHARMACY EMPLOYEES’ USAGE OF HERBAL PRODUCTS AND KNOWLEDGE ABOUT FOOD–DRUG INTERACTIONS

EVALUATION OF PHARMACY EMPLOYEES’ USAGE OF HERBAL PRODUCTS AND KNOWLEDGE ABOUT FOOD–DRUG INTERACTIONS

Advanced herbal technology for the development of herbal drug molecule-A review

This review article explores the interface between conventional herbal knowledge and contemporary scientific discoveries as it digs into the most cutting-edge advancements in herbal technology. Despite the fact that over 80% of the world’s population relies on herbal products and medicine for a healthy lifestyle, people are only recently becoming interested in herbal medicine We examine the advancements in herbal technology. Despite the fact that over 80% of the world’s population relies on the herbal products and medicine for a healthy lifestyle, people are only recently becoming interested in herbal medicine we examine the advancements made in boosting the effectiveness, bioavailability, and sustainability of herbal products, from novel extraction methods to the incorporation of nanotechnology in herbal formulations. Additionally, the application of data analytics and artificial intelligence to the development of customized herbal therapies is looked at this review attempts to provide a detailed overview of the developing environment of herbal technology by combining data from several disciplines, illuminating its potential to transform healthcare and contribute to a more sustained future. Due to the numerous benefits herbal formulations have as therapeutic agents for various diseases. The qualitative analysis of a marker or bioactive compound and other major constituent is a major challenge to scientists. Standardization is an important step to for the establishment of a consistent biological activity a result of the increase in the use of herbal products, which has also given rise to various forms of abuse and adulteration of the product leading to the consumer and manufacture this disappointment and in some instant fatal consequence., , .

Optimizing Treatment of Herbal Plant Using SOPHERBAL Android Application Fordward Chaining Method

The utilization of traditional herbal medicine among the inhabitants of Lombok is notably prevalent yet frequently hindered by a lack of comprehension regarding the efficacy of herbal remedies for specific ailments. Addressing this challenge, this study proposes the development of an Android application called ”sopherbal,” aimed at delivering personalized herbal plant recommendations via easily accessible mobile devices. Employing forward chaining methodology, the application identifies optimal herbal remedies based on ailment type, processing techniques, usage instructions, and recommended dosage and treatment duration. Notably, while effective in this context, the forward chaining approach entails certain trade-offs and hurdles. Previous research indicates that forward chaining facilitatesaccurate recommendation generation, and it may be constrained by its reliance on predefined rules and limited adaptability to complex, evolving scenarios. Despite these challenges, the ”sopherbal” application, featuring 50 Sasak medicinal plants curated for 15 common ailments, achieved an 86% validation rate, affirming its efficacy in bridging the gap between traditional herbal knowledge and modern healthcare needs.

Quantitative Ethnobotanical Study of Medicinal Species With Dermatological Relevance Used in Traditional Mayan Medicine

This ethnobotanical study highlights the significant knowledge of the Maya Yucatecan healers about medicinal plants used to treat skin diseases and the importance of studying the ancient knowledge inherited from generation to generation. Historically, the Maya people have relied on the use of medicinal plants to treat various ailments, including skin diseases. The study focuses on identifying the plants that have been traditionally employed for these purposes. By comparing historical sources with contemporary ethnobotanical data gathered from the field, this research uncovers the evolving patterns of plant usage over time. It also underscores the significance of considering sociopolitical circumstances in understanding changes in local knowledge. The data indicated that Rutaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Lamiaceae, and Asteraceae were the most represented families. The ethnohistoric record also showed gaps linked to the local knowledge developed by the Mayans over time. The principal component analysis technique applied to our ethnobotanical data simplifies the complexity of information on the use of medicinal flora to treat skin conditions, resulting in a new predictive model for pooling herbal knowledge. Correlations indicated that more than 50% of the listed species are used to treat fungal infections. This historical perspective enriches our understanding of the dynamic relationship between the Maya people and their use of medicinal plants for skin-related ailments.

Eat, Sleep, Lust, Repeat: Bedtime Routine, Health and Herbals in Early Modern England

ABSTRACT Getting a good night’s sleep was of great importance to early modern people because it was central to healthy routine and the practice of piety. Re-examining printed regimens and herbals reveals that lust was thought to interrupt slumber and that managing sexual impulse and activity is a hitherto unexplored aspect of sleep care. Aspects of routine had to be repeated moderately and in succession in order to prevent disease and imbalance. Feeling sleepy and feeling lustful were, this article finds, connected in complicated and often conflicting ways in bedtime routine. Printed herbals and domestic recipe books shows that soporific materials were also useful in lessening lust. Such findings point to a shared culture of herbal knowledge that centred around bedtime and beds. Early modern people grappled with social, practical, moral and medical concerns when deciding how and when to use their beds, revealing the ways in which sleep care, sexuality and the pursuit of a healthy body and soul intersected.

Medicinal plants used in the management of cancers by residents in the Elgon Sub-Region, Uganda

BackgroundIn Uganda, medicinal plants have been utilized to treat a variety of ailments, including cancer. However, there is little information available about the medicinal plants used to treat cancer in the Elgon subregion. As a result, the current study documented the plant species used in the management of cancer in the Elgon sub-region.MethodsData were gathered by observation, self-administered questionnaires, interview guides, and guided field trips. Analyzing descriptive statistics and creating graphs were done using SPSS (version 21.0) and GraphPad Prism® version 9.0.0, respectively. Well-established formulae were used to calculate quantitative indices. The narratives were interpreted using major theories and hypotheses in ethnobotany.ResultsA total of 50 plant species from 36 families were documented, and herbal knowledge was mainly acquired through inheritance. Fabaceae and Asteraceae comprised more plant species used in herbal preparation. Most plants were collected from forest reserves (63%); herbal therapies were made from herbs (45%); and leaves were primarily decocted (43%). The most frequently used plants were Tylosema fassoglensis, Hydnora abyssinica, Azidarachata indica, Prunus Africana, Kigelia africana, Syzygium cumini, Hydnora africana, Rhoicissus tridentata, Albizia coriaria, and Plectranthus cuanneus. All the most commonly used plants exhibited a high preference ranking (60–86%) and reliability level (74.1–93.9%). Generally, the ICF for all the cancers treated by medicinal plants was close to 1 (0.84–0.95).ConclusionsThe ten most commonly utilized plants were favored, dependable, and most important for treating all known cancers. As a result, more investigation is required to determine their phytochemistry, toxicity, and effectiveness in both in vivo and in vitro studies. This could be a cornerstone for the pharmaceutical sector to develop new anticancer medications.

Herbal medicines : Bridging traditional knowledge with modern pharmacology

This paper explores the dynamic intersection of traditional herbal knowledge and modern pharmacology in the realm of herbal medicines. It delves into the rich reservoir of traditional wisdom passed down through generations and its integration with contemporary scientific research and methodologies. Through, an in-depth analysis, this paper sheds light on the synergistic potential of these two domains, highlighting the importance of preserving and harnessing traditional herbal knowledge in the development of evidence-based herbal medicines. The study presents five critical subheadings that delve into various facets of this intricate relationship, including botanical diversity, phytochemical analysis, therapeutic applications, safety assessment, and regulatory considerations. This comprehensive examination underscores the significance of bridging traditional knowledge with modern pharmacology to advance the field of herbal medicine and improve healthcare outcomes.

The Role of Herbal Medicine in Oxidative Stress: Prevention of Diabetes

The pathophysiology of diabetes mellitus is heavily influenced by oxidative stress, which is defined by an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant defenses. Innovative methods for managing and preventing diabetes are required given that it is a growing worldwide health concern. Herbal medicine, which has a long history of use in traditional therapeutic methods, has drawn interest for its ability to reduce the incidence of diabetes and combat oxidative stress. The processes underpinning the damage caused by ROS to cellular components and signaling pathways are revealed in this chapter as it delves into the complex interactions between oxidative stress and diabetes. The essential function of antioxidant substances in reducing oxidative stress is investigated, emphasizing the change from traditional herbal knowledge to contemporary scientific validation. The botanical substances that provide a source of inorganic antioxidants are at the center of this discussion. Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) and Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia), two important medicinal herbs, are investigated for their strong antioxidant capacities and their capacity to modify glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity.Scientific studies, including in vitro experiments and clinical trials, shed light on how well herbal treatments for diabetes prevention actually work. Additionally, the beneficial effects of herbal combinations are clarified, as well as the importance of combining these interventions with lifestyle changes. The fusion of herbal medicine and conventional therapies appears as a promising route for diabetes prevention as the movement toward holistic health gains popularity. In conclusion, this chapter underscores the multifaceted potential of herbal medicine in addressing oxidative stress as a crucial factor in diabetes prevention. By embracing the wisdom of ancient traditions and leveraging contemporary scientific insights, herbal interventions offer a holistic and integrative strategy to safeguard against the escalating global burden of diabetes.

Standard Manufacturing Process of Agnipaka Guduchi Taila: A Sneha Kalpna

ABSTRACT Background: Nowadays, the use of herbal medicine is increasingly finding more relevance, especially when we are facing more challenges in the management of some chronic disease. The traditional herbal medical knowledge is scattered around the world at different levels and more in the indigenous people. The knowledge of traditional medicine is continuously being lost; hence, it needs scientific documentation of herbal medicine. The concept of Agnipaka is to enhance more potency in oil by Samskar and extract the fat-soluble active principle from drug to sneha. Aim and Objective: The objective of this study was to document step-by-step procedure of Agnipaka Guduchi Taila and to document preparation and pharmaceutical observations of Agnipaka Guduchi Taila using scientific methods. Materials and Methods: Agnipaka Guduchi taila was prepared using Chakrdutta Aaditypaka guduchi taila reference. It was a modified process of Aaditypaka guduchi taila. Results: The oil prepared from Agnipaka vidhi is light brown, odor is pleasant, and having greasy consistency. Conclusion: The current study reflects standardization and it was an attempt to describing standard procedure where Aaditypaka guduchi taila is modified as Agnipaka guduchi taila.

Optimization of Traditional Medicine Business in Indonesia: A Questionnaire Survey

Traditional medicine was the treatment already being used by our ancestors' thousands of years ago; the treatment is productively treated for several illnesses. This research examines how one traditional medicine product can be launched and stand out amongst other competitors by analysing and comparing the data collected from PT. Saraka Mandiri Sejahtera Indonesia is the host institution. A different company distributes the product produced by the host institution. This research analyses the best factors for commercializing traditional medicine products. The data collected by the host institution was analysed in this research, followed by other data collection. Participants were 155 individuals collected around 7-10 days with the distribution via WhatsApp and email of the survey link. In all, 50.32% of customers satisfied had used monthly spending. The majority of the sample have monthly spending of more than Rp 5,000,000 (331 USD above). Then the author correlates the monthly spending of the samples with six variables which are: Herbal or Traditional medicine product knowledge, Herbal or Traditional medicine product loyalty, Herbal or Traditional medicine product preference, Herbal or Traditional medicine product exclusivity, Herbal or Traditional Medicine product packaging safety, and Herbal or Traditional medicine product labelling preference. The study shows variables that can be improved are product knowledge, product preference, and product packaging safety factors of its use were identified.

Socio-Economic Importance and Potential of Wild Ayurvedic Medicinal Plants of the Western Himalayas, India

India's Ayurvedic medicine system is becoming popular worldwide because these medicines are based on natural herbal products and have no side effects on health; somewhat, it improves and strengthens the body's immunity. Today people’s awareness is increasing about health, the side effects of allopathy medicines on health, and their inclination and faith toward Ayurvedic treatments are railing with time. Ayurvedic medicine system is based on traditional herbal knowledge, identification of herbs in natural habitats, and formulations. The present study involves the survey and analysis of local healers of Shivalik hill in the Western Himalayas to discover the most used herbs and their economic potential from national and international market perspectives. Therefore, a survey and analysis were conducted in randomly selected 37 villages of six development blocks. The survey interviewed 195 local healers and people based on the scientifically designed questionnaire. During the 2019-2022, the thirty-one wild medicinal plant species were identified with, highlighting ten highly valued plants. These plants have high demand from local healers, vendors, or the pharma industry. Further analysis of the importance and value of each part of the plant shows this: leaves (15%), flowers (13%), roots (21%), seeds (27%), oil (2%), wood (4%), juice (11%), tuber (4%) and whole plant (4%). Study shows that local healers can. This study also emphasizes the cultivation of these herbal plants on a large scale and can potentially raise the financial status of local people and healers. The study highlights the potential of these herbal plants found in the study area to enhance rural livelihood and community resilience and calls for the integration of medicinal plants in conservation and development strategies.

Fitomisteria. Zielarska praktyka spekulatywna

This article describes the practice of entering mindfully into a relationship with plants, formulated by the Warsaw-based herbal studio Chwaściarnia [Weedshop]. It presents a several-stage herbal speculative method, developed with reference to the assumptions guiding contemporary posthu-manism. In the first part, the article addresses the practice of conscious breathing with plants, challenging the traditional anthropocentric paradigm of herbalism. It then discusses the successive stages of the method: sensory familiarization with the plant, the role of voice (including call and response), and the importance of performative incantations and murmurs. The problem of the rela-tionship between people and plants in contaminated areas is also addressed. An important part of the method described is speculation, which involves weaving a narrative about the plant and col-lectively creating its imaginative depiction. The practice ends with collating speculation with bo-tanical facts. This method combines mindfulness practices with the development of an approach based on knowledge and care. Key-words: herbal practice, postsecularism, mindfulness, relationality, knowledge and care

Medicinal Herbal Knowledge and Identity in a Tribal Setting: Locally Specific Composite Wound Balm Formulas in Tunceli, Turkey

Medicinal Herbal Knowledge and Identity in a Tribal Setting: Locally Specific Composite Wound Balm Formulas in Tunceli, Turkey