Highest Fidelity Level Values Research Articles

Medicinal plants used for management of diabetes and hypertension in Ghana

Diabetes and hypertension have been declared as a global health menace of the 21st Century. Thus, the search for potential therapeutic agents from medicinal plants for the management of diabetes and hypertension is important. This study was undertaken to investigate medicinal plants being used in the management of diabetes and hypertension by herbalists in Ghana. Data were obtained from 36 herbalists through questionnaire interviews and conversations. Botanical specimens were collected, processed and identified following standard ethnobotanical methods. Data were analyzed using Fidelity Level (FL) and Informant Consensus Factor (ICF). A total of 39 species of plants belonging to 31 families were reported being used for management of diabetes and hypertension. Eighteen of these plants are used for the treatment of hypertension, 12 species for diabetes, and 9 species for management of both diseases. Informant consensus factor was highest for plants used to treat both diseases (IFC = 0.82) followed by hypertension (ICF = 0.31) and then diabetes (IFC = 0.24). FL values were high for Carica papaya L. Moringa oleifera Lam. and Khaya senegalensis A. Juss. for the management of both diabetes and hypertension. Of the 14 species used for hypertension, Tetrapleura tetraptera (Schum. ex. Thonn.) recorded the highest FL value whiles Momordica charantia L. recorded the highest FL value for antidiabetic plants. Baphia nitida G. Lodd, Luffa aegyptiaca Mill. and Tapinanthus banguwensis (Engl. & k. Krause) Dancing are being mentioned for the first time in the management of hypertension. Herbal medicines for treatments of both diabetes and hypertension were usually prepared from multiple plant prescriptions by boiling the plant parts, and the decoctions drunk for treatments. The results show that there is substantial preclinical evidence to support the usefulness of some of these herbs as an important choice for patients with diabetes and hypertension. However, clinical studies are important to confirm the efficacy and safety of the herbal medicines prescribed by herbalists.

Ethnopharmacology of medicinal plants used by the Tenggerese community in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, Indonesia

Abstract. Bhagawan WS, Ekasari W, Agil M. 2023. Ethnopharmacology of medicinal plants used by the Tenggerese community in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 24: 5464-5477. Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park is a repository of biodiversity with profound cultural significance. The Tenggerese community residing within the park possesses rich ethnopharmacological knowledge, using medicinal plants for various ailments. This study aims to comprehensively explore the medicinal plant diversity, traditional uses, and potential pharmacological activities among the Tenggerese people. Ethnopharmacological data was gathered through interviews with informants in seven Tenggerese villages. Ethnopharmacological indices like Species Use Value (SUV) and Fidelity Level (FL) were calculated to identify the most important medicinal plants. Phytochemical analysis of selected medicinal plants was conducted using UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS, and its pharmacological potential was assessed through antibacterial tests. A total of 124 medicinal plant species from 54 families were documented. The Tenggerese community utilizes plants to treat diverse diseases, with reproductive healthcare being prominently featured. Elaeocarpus longifolius emerged as a key species with high SUV and FL values. Phytochemical analysis identified 25 compounds, including major and minor compounds, already known for their pharmacological activities elsewhere. Elaeocarpus longifolius extract showed inhibitor activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. The findings contribute to bridging traditional knowledge and modern scientific research, offering potential avenues for the development of drug candidates from indigenous medicinal plants.

Exploration of the Wild Edible Plants Used for Basic Health Care by Local People of Bahawalpur and Adjacent Regions, Pakistan.

The current study aimed to explore the traditional knowledge and practices of indigenous communities in Bahawalpur and adjacent regions, Pakistan, to treat a variety of diseases with a particular focus on the usage of ethnomedicinal wild plants. The objective of the study was to collect and evaluate local and indigenous knowledge regarding the quantity, variety, use and management of resources by the people. Data were gathered using Rapid Appraisal Approach (RAA), which involved in-person interviews. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics methods as well as common ethnobotanical analytical techniques viz. use value (UV), relative frequency of citation (RFC), informant consensus factor (ICF), fidelity level (FL), relative importance (RI), frequency index (FI), family use value (FUV), family importance value (FIV), popular therapeutic use value (POPUT), plant part value (PPV), preference ranking (PR), cultural significance index (CSI), rank order priority (ROP) and Jaccard index (JI). A total of 158 plant species from 49 families were identified. The perennial herbs made up 72% of the documented species of therapeutic plants. There were 21 different species in each of the two major plant families i.e., Fabaceae and Poaceae. The maximum ICF were calculated for gonorrhea and paralysis (1.0) and maximum POPUT was calculated for skin disorders (0.088) and cough (0.077), respectively. The maximum UV was found for Rumex crispus (0.57) and RI for Leucaena leucocephala (4.38). Heliotropium crispum had the highest FL value (83%) and is used to treat kidney diseases. Alhagi maurorum had the greatest RFC (0.009) and FI (0.93). Arecaceae (0.45) and Fabaceae (13.39%) had the greatest FUV while Poaceae and Fabaceae had the highest FIV (13.29 for each). Leaves were the most frequently used plant part (35%). Alhagi maurorum (4.0) and Rumex crispus (32.57) had the highest CSI and ROP, respectively. The maximum JI (28.31) was calculated for Cholistan desert. These results showed the local population's reliance on herbal remedies to treat prevalent illnesses. To demonstrate the viability of species, it's crucial to emphasize both the use and conservation of these species. Adopting innovative applications, enhancing their value, and prioritizing the protection of multipurpose wild plants in inhabited environments is vital.

Ethnobotany of Hmong ethnic groups in Bolikhamxay province, central Laos PDR

Results from an ethnobotany study of Hmong ethnic groups in Bolikhamxay Province, Laos PDR between 2021 and 2023 identifies plant uses for 133 species, 104 genera, and 50 families. The research focusses on specific plant uses. Quantitative analyses are applied with Use Value (UV), Fidelity Level (FL), and Informant Agreement Ratio (IAR). Cluster analysis based on the Jaccard’s Similarity Index (JI) are calculated for the similarity of edible plant used in three areas as follows: cultivated, from the forest, and in the market. The most important plant species are Imperata cylindrica (L.) Raeusch. with a UV of 3.45 followed by Calamus viminalis Willd. (2.85) and Curcuma zedoaria (Christm.) Roscoe (2.83). The highest FL value for 23 plant species with 100% FL. The highest consensus within ailment categories is for urinary system symptoms, neurological symptoms and oral syndrome (IAR=1.00). The JI varies between 0.1013 and 0.2981; the highest JI is for pairs of cultivated and in the market. UPGMA cluster analysis indicates that the plants are collected from isolated forests with low similarity to other areas. Considering the numerous useful plants that have been documented, along with the identification of culturally and historically significant species, as well as their distribution and conservation status, it becomes evident that forest conservation is crucial for preserving the livelihoods and associated ethnobotanical knowledge of the local and indigenous people in Bolikhamxay Province.

Kajian Pemanfaatan Tumbuhan Obat Oleh Suku Dayak Belangin di Desa Dange Aji Kecamatan Air Besar Kabupaten Landak

The Dayak tribe has a close relationship with nature. They are used to using natural resources such as plants for various needs, including as an ingredient in traditional medication. The Dayak Belangin, one of the Kanayatn Dayak sub-tribes in Dange Aji Village, Landak District, is still using medicinal plants to treat illnesses in their community. This research was conducted to document the knowledge of the dayak Belangin people in Dange Aji Village in utilizing plants as traditional medicine. A total of 163 households of the dayak Belangin community in Dange Aji Village were selected by purposive sampling and in-depth interviews to obtain information about the community's knowledge of using plants as medicine. The data obtained were then analyzed using ethnobotanical indices such as use value (UV), family importance value (FIV), informant consensus factor (ICF), and fidelity level (FL). All respondents interviewed used medicinal plants, with in total there are 53 species belonging to 34 plant families. Asteraceae is a plant family with the highest FIV (11.76). Jambu tokal or guava (P. guajava), mabo (Blumea balsamifera), and engkodok (Melastoma candidum) had the highest UV values (0.76; 0.71, and 0.71, respectively). The highest ICF score (1) includes cancer, wounds, urinary stones, rheumatism, gout, allergies, malaria, hypertension, bloody bowel movements, colds, sore eyes, colds, cholesterol, and broken bones. There are 43 plants with the highest FL value (100%). The local knowledge of the dayak Belangin tribe is prized and must be maintained, especially for the benefit of science and the development of new modern medicines.

Family medicinal plants (toga) in Tanap village Sanggau regency and their utilization by the Dayak Muara ethnic for the treatment of digestive system disorders

Medicinal plants are used for various kinds of health care, one of which is to treat problems in the digestive system. This research aimed to analyze the utilization of family medicinal plants (TOGA) by the ethnic of Dayak Muara in Tanap village in handling digestive system disorders. This study was conducted by survey method with a purposive sampling technique. This research was initiated by conducting interviews with the people of Tanap village who came from the Dayak Muara, then continued with identifying the medicinal plants mentioned. The data obtained were then analyzed with an ethnobotanical index in the form of Use Value (UV), Informant Consensus Factor (ICF), and Fidelity Level (FL). The Dayak Muara ethnic in Tanap Village uses 22 species of TOGA to handle digestive system disorders. The highest families used were Zingiberaceae and Amaryllidaceae. The dominant plant parts used, processing method, administration method, and remedies form for the handling of digestive system disorders are leaves (36%), boiled processing (43%), drinking (44%), and single herb form (67%). Plants with high use value (UV=1) are jambu biji (Psidium guajava) and kunyit (Curcuma longa). The digestive system disorder categories with the highest ICF included sprue (1), nausea and vomiting (0.98), intestinal worms, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and constipation (0.97). Plant that had the highest FL value (100%) included cocor bebek (Bryophyllum pinnatum), patah tulang (Euphorbia tirucalli), and putri malu (Mimosa pudica) for the treatment of toothache. Entawak (Artocarpus anisophyllus) for stomachache, pinang (Areca catechu) for constipation, lidah buaya (Aloe vera) for hemorrhoids, and sawo (Manilkara zapota) for stomachache.

Socio-economic appraisal of the importance and impacts of Anardana (Punica granatum L.) in District Dir Lower Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Background: Present survey was conducted to explore the status, socio-economic importance and impact of Anardana (Punica granatum L.) by the inhabitants of Dir lower Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Method: Different techniques like semi-structured, open-ended questionnaires and interviews, a field survey, and group discussions were undertaken in Dir lower better to understand socio-economic relevance and influence on local peoples. Indicators such as the relative frequency citation (RFC), usage value (UV percent) and fidelity level (FL) were used to statistically assess the data, which was gathered from 200 participants. Results: Quantitative indices revealed that the plant is mostly used to remedy urinary problems, stomach disease and dry cough. Furthermore, the RFC results show that the plant is frequently used for fuel (1.00), fruit (0.97), medicine (0.93), spices (0.89) and fencing (0.88) purposes. Moreover, the results declared that P. granatum is mostly used (UV %) as a remedy for dry cough (90.5%), stomach disorders (81 %), urinary troubles (79.5%), diuretic (72%), renal calculus (66.5%), and for fever tonic (62.5%). Out of 52 ailments, 16 ailments were identified with greater FL than 50 %. However, the highest FL values were recorded for the disease category of dry cough (100 %). The study naked that most of the informants agreed to P. granatum against as a tonic for fever that unveiled the highest fidelity level (100 %) in the study area. Conclusions: Documentation of such ethnobotanical data will help conserve P. granatum, create awareness among the local community, and preserve the indigenous knowledge associated with medicinal plant species.

Traditional knowledge of edible plants used as flavoring for fish-grilling in Southeast Guizhou, China

BackgroundThe local Dong people in Qiandongnan Prefecture, Guizhou Province, China, with rich biocultural diversity, have developed the traditional rice-duckweed-fish-duck agroecosystem (RDFDA) to support biodiversity conservation and to meet food and cultural needs. However, there is still not much research on traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) in this area. In particular, there is a lack of traditional knowledge of edible plants used by the Dong people as flavoring to grill fish (Cyprinus carpio) collected from RDFDA, which is extremely valuable in their traditional culture. The study focused on documenting plant species used in grilling fish and analyzing the status of its TEK.MethodsTwenty-one sampling points of three Dong minority villages in Qiandongnan were selected for the research. The local TEK associated with plant resources for fish-grilling was recorded through free listing and semi-structured interviews. Fidelity level (FL) and ethnoecological importance value (EIV) indicators were designed to determine the socioeconomic influence of TEK. The non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) method was used to evaluate the differentiation of edible plant species distribution in dissimilar accessibility types.ResultsA total of 430 people were interviewed about grilled fish, of whom 75% were men and 85% were farmers. Thirty-four edible plants were documented for fish-grilling in three Dong villages. They belong to 16 plant families, such as Apiaceae, and Asteraceae. The life forms included herbaceous (76%), shrubs (18%) and trees (6%). Leaves are the most commonly used part of for grilling fish, followed by aerial parts, and whole plants. Among these edible plants, Allium hookeri, A. macrostemon and Houttuynia cordata with the highest fidelity level (100%) were cited as edible plants for grilling fish by all informants. The NMDS showed different accessibility types of collection sites, with different importance values. Paddy rice field edge (2.03) has the highest value, followed by forest-farming ecotone (1.74), streamsides (1.71) and woodland (0.48).ConclusionThe purpose of this study was to investigate the traditional knowledge of edible plant materials used by the Dong people for grilling fish. The results demonstrate the strong connection between local people, the bio-environment and agroecosystem services. The survey and comparative analysis revealed that plant species with high FL values may be potential sources of natural flavors.

Quantitative ethnobotanical investigation of medicinal plants used by local population in the rural municipalities of Haizer and El Asnam, province of Bouira, Northern Algeria

This study aims to assess ethnobotanical knowledge in Kabylia, focusing on the traditional uses of medicinal plants. The purpose was to quantify the traditional knowledge of medicinal plants commonly used by local populations for treating a wide range of ailments, with a view to preserve the medicinal knowledge and the biodiversity of this area.
 Ethnobotanical data was gathered using a questionnaire. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 69 key informants at six villages of Bouira province. A quantitative analysis by means of different indices including the informant consensus factor (FIC), use value (UV), relative frequencies of citation (RFC), and fidelity level (FL), was performed for the recorded medicinal plants.
 Overall, 136 plants species were recorded. Their uses in 10 disease categories were documented. They belong to 54 families, the most represented are the Asteraceae (18 species) and Lamiaceae (16 species). With 98 use reports, diabetes is the most treated ailment. The highest RFC values are recorded for Carthamus caeruleus (0.57) and Asplenium ceterach (0.52), indicating that these plants are the most preferred species used in study areas, to treat skin burns and kidney stones respectively. Plant with the highest use value is Lavandula stoechas (1.21), used to treat different digestive disorders (bloating, colon pain, and stomach ulcer). We found 13 medicinal plants having the highest FL value (100%), e.g. Rhamnus alaternus (jaundice), Lonicera implexa (weak eyesight), and Ulmus minor for treating skeletomuscular ailments. These latter are the most interesting species used in the treatment of a specific ailment category. The maximum FIC value (0.86) indicated that there was high agreement in the use of plants (e.g. Aristolochia fontanesii and Ophrys speculum) in genitourinary and reproductive ailment category among the informants.
 We highlighted the homogeneity of informant knowledge in medicinal plants appropriate for different ailment categories and the most preferred plant species used to treat each ailment category in the study area. By overstepping the limits of an orally transmitted pharmacopoeia, we aim to valorize the huge ethnopharmacology legacy of the region for promising pharmacological perspectives.

Ethnoveterinary medicinal plants for animal therapy in the Rif, North of Morocco

Phytotherapy has been playing a significant role in the livestock health care system for a long especially in remote areas. This study was aimed to document the therapeutic uses of plant species practiced by the indigenous people of the Rif for the treatment of various veterinary health diseases. Semi-structured questionnaires, field walks, and group discussions were conducted during June 2016 - October 2019 to collect the data. Quantitative indices including Plant Part Value (PPV), Use value (UV), Fidelity Level (FL), Relative Popularity Level (RPL), Rank Order Priority (ROP), Jaccard Index (JI), and Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) were used for the data analysis. A total of 300 medicinal plants belonging to 205 genera and 67 families have been recorded with ethnoveterinary uses. Dominant families are Asteraceae (33 species), Lamiaceae (28 species), and Fabaceae (24 species). The reported illness was classified into 6 disease categories based on ICF values and the highest number of plants was reported to treat dermatological diseases (ICF=0.971). Leaves were the most consistently used parts (PPV=48.4%). Aloysia citrodora Palau. (RPL=) had the highest RPL level (1.15). It can be concluded that the local people of Rif hold rich ethnoveterinary knowledge to cure livestock diseases. Plant species with high FL, RPL, and UV values should be screened for comprehensive phytochemical and pharmacological studies to validate the ethnomedicinal knowledge.

Ethnobotanical Documentation of Medicinal Plants Used by the Indigenous Panay Bukidnon in Lambunao, Iloilo, Philippines.

The Panay Bukidnon is a group of indigenous peoples living in the interior highlands of Panay Island in Western Visayas, Philippines. Little is known about their ethnobotanical knowledge due to limited written records, and no recent research has been conducted on the medicinal plants they used in ethnomedicine. This study aims to document the medicinal plants used by the indigenous Panay Bukidnon in Lambunao, Iloilo, Panay Island. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 75 key informants from June 2020 to September 2021 to determine the therapeutic use of medicinal plants in traditional medicine. A total of 131 medicinal plant species distributed in 121 genera and 57 families were used to address 91 diseases in 16 different uses or disease categories. The family Fabaceae was best represented with 13 species, followed by Lamiaceae with nine species and Poaceae with eight species. The leaf was the most frequently used plant part and decoction was the most preferred form of preparation. To evaluate the plant importance, use value (UV), relative frequency citation (RFC), relative important index (RI), informant consensus factor (ICF), and fidelity level (FL) were used. Curcuma longa L. had the highest UV (0.79), Artemisia vulgaris L. had the highest RFC value (0.57), and Annona muricata L. had the highest RI value (0.88). Diseases and symptoms or signs involving the respiratory system and injury, poisoning, and certain other consequences of external causes recorded the highest ICF value (0.80). Blumea balsamifera (L.) DC. and Chromolaena odorata (L.) R.M. King & H. Rob were the most relevant and agreed species for the former and latter disease categories, respectively. C. odorata had the highest FL value (100%) and was the most preferred medicinal plant used for cuts and wounds. The results of this study serve as a medium for preserving cultural heritage, ethnopharmacological bases for further drug research and discovery, and preserving biological diversity.

The Local Knowledge of Medicinal Plants by The Tanjung Merpati Village Community for The Postpartum and Infant Care

Women often experience various health problems with their reproductive organs. They also have to take several treatments during postpartum and infant care. In the community, these treatments generally use medicinal plants and become local knowledge. This study aimed to document the local knowledge of Tanjung Merpati Village community in using medicinal plants for postpartum and infant care. We interviewed a total of 96 respondents, who are the general public in Tanjung Merpati Village. The data obtained were analyzed in the form of use-value (UV), informant consensus factor (ICF), and fidelity level (FL). The analysis results showed 22 species of medicinal plants used for postpartum and infant care. Plants such as kunyit kuning (Curcuma longa), cokur (Kaemperia galanga), entomu (Curcuma xanthorriza), and ginger (Zingiber officinale) have the highest UV values with values respectively (1; 0.96; 0.84 and 0.8). Baby haircare shows the highest ICF value. Several plants have the highest FL value (100), namely manjakani (Quercus infectoria) and asam kanis (Garcinia xanthochymus) (postnatal maternal care), ayau (Litsea sp) (baby poultice), kumis kucing (Orthosiphon aristatus), and coconut (Cocos nucifera) (fever in infants), jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) (treatment of baby's umbilical wound), lidah buaya (Aloe vera) (baby haircare), mengkudu (Morinda citrifolia) (stomachache and bloating in infants), as well as pisang (Musa sp) and cangkok manis (Sauropus androgynus) (enhance mother breast milk). Conclusions from the results of the study indicate that the people of Tanjung Merpati Village have local knowledge regarding postpartum and infant care, and this knowledge is still well maintained in the community.

Ethnobotany of edible plants in Muang District, Kalasin Province, Thailand

Abstract. Phatlamphu N, Saensouk S, Saensouk P, Jungsongduang A. 2021. Ethnobotany of edible plants in Muang District, Kalasin Province, Thailand. Biodiversitas 22: 5425- 5431. Edible plants have been used as a food source and have had other purposes since ancient times, but urbanization and modernization might be obscuring traditional knowledge. Therefore, this research aimed to conduct a study on the ethnobotany of indigenous people in Muang District, Kalasin Province based on edible plants by focusing on their specific uses. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions from March 2019 to February 2021. Quantitative analysis was applied using the Cultural Important Index (CI), Fidelity Level (FL) and Informant Consensus Factor (ICF). Cluster analysis based on the Jaccard’s Similarity Index (JI) was calculated for the similarity of edible plant uses in four communities is as follows: urban/semi-urban (UB), forest community (FC), wetland community (WC) and community in valley (CV). There were 140 edible plant species that belonged to 125 genera and 62 families. The most important edible plants species were Tamarindus indica which had a CI of 2.65 followed by Bambusa bambos (2.00) and Citrus hystrix (1.90). The highest FL value is given for 51 edible plant species with 100% FL. The ICF is a range of 0 to 1; the most consensus of ailment categories was the treatment of wound (ICF = 1.00). The JI varied between 0.2640 and 0.2971; the highest JI was the pairs of WC and FC. UPGMA cluster analysis indicated that UB is isolated as they have less similarity to other communities. The results show a risk of traditional knowledge loss due to the expansion of the economic system at all levels and the advancement of modern medicine.

Local Wisdom of the Rantau Panjang Community, Simpang Hilir District, Kayong Utara Regency in Utilizing Medicinal Plants

Medicinal plants for modern society today are still one of the alternative options in healthcare treatment. This condition is due to the local culture, tradition, and wisdom of a group of people that are still solid and thick. This study aims to analyze the types of medicinal plants used by the community in Rantau Panjang, Simpang Hilir District, North Kayong Regency. This research uses the survey method by conducting interviews with the community and identifying medicinal plants in the field. A sampling of the people who became respondents was done with a purposive sampling technique. The total number of respondents is 333 people distributed in several sub-village, namely Sepakat Jaya 71 people, Tembok Baru 65 people, Ampera 37 people, Makmur 61 people, Sinar Palung 25 people, Kebal Manuk 12 people, Sinar Selatan 35 people and Siput Lestari 27 people. The data obtained were analyzed for Use Value (UV) and Fidelity Level (FL). The village community of Rantau Panjang utilizes 69 types of medicinal plants, with the predominant plant family is Zingiberaceae. The highest use of plant parts is leaves (37.68%), the most common method of processing is boiled (57.97%), and the most extensive way of use is drunk as much as (60.86%). The plants with the highest UV values are turmeric (Curcuma longa L) (0.42), red liyak (Zingiber officinale Linn) (0.34), white turmeric (Curcuma zedoaria L) (0.28), and betel (Piper betle L) (0.22). The types of plants have the highest FL value (100), namely simpur, ketumbar, sawo, leban, pulai, jantung pisang, bunga raya, alalang, durian, nipah, kopi, selo daging, keladi, paku ikan, pegage, kumis kucing, mahkota dewa, belange, belimbing pelunjuk, asam jawa, andong, limau sambal, jambu biji, lidah buaya, pinang, leban, mentimun, daun salam, mentimun, manggis, bajakah, cempedak, pandan wangi, pasak bumi, tebu merah, jengkol, cengkodok, anggrek dan ketepeng.

Traditional healing practices of Pnar and War communities in West Jaintia Hills District of Meghalaya, Northeast India

Pnar and War are the most predominant and oldest ethnic community in the West Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya; they have faith on the medicinal plants for their primary health care. Information about the ethno medicinal uses of several plants were collected through interview of the local respondents following the standard ethno medicinal methods. Statistical tools, informant consensus factors (FIC) and fidelity level (FL) were used to analyze the importance of ethnomedicinal plants. The present investigation revealed 70 plant species belong 64 genera, under 44 family were being used against different ailments, which were classified into 11 groups. The results of the FIC value of blood related disease category had the greatest agreement =1.0), followed by Urinogenetal disease (0.90), Antidote (0.85), Dermatological, fungal and bacterial infections (0.82). The highest FL values were gastrointestinal, parasitic and hepatobiliary (Melastoma malabathricum, 95.83%), followed by external injuries and bleeding (Centella asiatica, 94.11%), oral, dental and otorhinolaryngolgical problems (Curcuma longa, 91.66%).

Current uses and knowledge of medicinal plants in the Autonomous Community of Madrid (Spain): a descriptive cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe usage of medicinal plants as a key component of complementary and alternative medicine, has acquired renewed interest in developed countries. The current situation of medicinal plants in Spain is very limited. This paper provides new insights and greater knowledge about current trends and consumption patterns of medicinal plants in the Autonomous Community of Madrid (Spain) for health benefits.MethodsA descriptive cross-sectional study was designed for a population-based survey on medicinal plants. The data were collected (May 2018 to May 2019) using semi-structured face-to-face interviews in independent pharmacies, hospital centers and primary care health centers in the Autonomous Community of Madrid. The survey had 18 multiple choice and open-ended questions. Quantitative indices were calculated: Fidelity Level (FL), Use Value (UV) and Informants Consensus Factor (ICF). Chi-square test was used for data analysis.ResultsFive hundred forty-three people were interviewed. The majority of the participants (89.6%) have used medicinal plants to treat health disorders in the past 12 months, mainly for digestive problems, sleep disorders and central nervous system diseases. A total of 78 plants were recorded, being Matricaria recutita, Valeriana officinalis, Tilia spp. and Aloe vera the most used. The highest UV was found for Mentha pulegium (UV 0.130) followed by Aloe vera (UV 0.097) and Vaccinium macrocarpon. (UV 0.080). The highest FL values were for Eucalyptus spp. (FL 90.47%) for respiratory conditions and, Matricaria recutita (85.55%) and Mentha pulegium (84.09%) for digestive problems. The highest ICF corresponded to metabolism and depression (ICF = 1), pain (ICF = 0.97), insomnia (ICF = 0.96) and anxiety (ICF = 0.95). Participants mostly acquired herbal medicines from pharmacies, herbal shops and supermarkets. Some side effects (tachycardia, dizziness and gastrointestinal symptoms) and potential interactions medicinal plants-drugs (V. officinalis and benzodiazepines) were reported.ConclusionMany inhabitants of the Autonomous Community of Madrid currently use herbal products to treat minor health problems. The most common consumer pattern are young women between 18 and 44 years of age with higher education. In order to confirm the pattern, further research should be focused to investigate current uses of medicinal plants in other Spanish regions.

Ethnomedicinal plants of the sacred groves and their uses by Karbi tribe in Karbi Anglong district of Assam, Northeast India

The present study was conducted to record the ethnomedicinal plants and their uses by the Karbi tribe in Bichikri and Harlong sacred groves of West Karbi Anglong district of Assam. A prestructured questionnaire survey and quantitative analysis was carried out to record the medicinal plants and to determine the ailments categories. A total of 38 ethnomedicinal plants (36 genera and 27 families) were recorded from the study sites. Leaves were found as the dominant plant parts used for the treatment of various health ailments. The highest Fic value was recorded for cold, dermatological, skeletal muscle pain and inflammation, general health, and infectious disease and genital-urinary disorder categories. The informant agreement ratio (IAR) was found higher for 18 species. The fidelity level (FL) of 11 species secured the highest FL value (100%) and the used value (UV) was in the range of 0.05 to 0.93. The present study has revealed that the Karbi tribe living around the sacred groves depends on the plant species for their health care. However, proper management is required for the conservation of sacred groves through sustainable utilization of medicinal plants occurred in the groves.

Are medicinal plants an alternative to the use of synthetic pharmaceuticals in animal healthcare in the Brazilian semi-arid?

Background: Despite the development of modern veterinary medicine, rural populations in developing countries continue to treat their animals with medicinal plants due to a combination of their low cost, easy availability, perceived efficacy and the absence of veterinary clinics. So, this study aimed to assess the consensus on the ethnobotanical knowledge from small-holders and to assess their preference either on medicinal plants or synthetic pharmaceuticals. Methods: Interviews were conducted between January and March 2015 with 30 people of both sexes, aged 24-96 years in Dom Helder Câmara, the largest rural settlement arisen by land reform efforts with remaining Caatinga vegetation in the state of Alagoas, northeast Brazil. The following indices were calculated to help interpret the data: Smith's Salience Index, Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) and Fidelity Level (FL). Results: Fifty-four species of plants in 45 genera and 25 botanical families were reported as treatments for 33 veterinary diseases. The highest salience value was found for Aloe vera (0.361) and Guapira graciliflora (0.336). The highest ICF values were recorded for the categories Ecto and endoparasite (0.670) and Gastrointestinal (0.630). In 76.5% of cases only the plant was used and in 23.5% of the cases synthetic pharmaceuticals were also considered as a treatment option. The highest FL values were found for G. graciliflora (84.62%) and Citrus limon (75.00%). Conclusions: Our results suggest that medicinal plants are an important alternative to synthetic remedies in this area, especially for treating helminthiasis, which cause great damage in the production of meat and derivatives. FL results may serve as the basis for prioritization of species for pharmacological studies. Key words: ethnoveterinary medicine, herbal medicine, livestock, phytotherapy, traditional knowledge.

Quantitative ethnobotanical study of toxic plants used in the traditional pharmacopoeia of the central Middle Atlas -Morocco-

Background: This is the first quantitative study of poisonous medicinal plants in which the practitioners of traditional medicine in the Moroccan central Middle Atlas region were interviewed to document and analyze their traditional ethnobotanical knowledge used to prepare plant-based drugs.Methods: To collect ethnobotanical data on poisonous medicinal plants, 58 practitioners of traditional medicine were interviewed. The quantitative measurement of the obtained data was accomplished by quantitative indices such as the use value (UV), family use value (FUV), relative frequency of citation (RFC), fidelity level (FL), relative importance (RI), informant consensus factor (ICF), and cultural importance index (CI).Results: Among the 83 poisonous medicinal plants recorded, Ruta montana L. had the highest rate of UV (2.293). Furthermore, Anacyclus pyrethrum L. demonstrated the highest RFC (0.810), while Carum carvi L. had both the highest RI (95) and CI (0.155). Five species were distinguished for their high-fidelity levels, among which Aristolochia paucinervis Pomel had the highest FL values for the treatment of dermatological and digestive disorders. The other four species were Ruta montana L. for treating respiratory, oral, and neurological diseases, Urtica urens L. for treating osteoarticular and urogenital diseases, Verbascum sinuatum L. for treating ophthalmic diseases, and Ammi visnaga, (L.) Lam. for treating cardiovascular disorders. Ophthalmic disorders had the highest value of ICF (0.743), and a very significant positive correlation was observed between RFC and UV (R² = 0.5968) and between RI and CI (R² = 0.9999) was observed.Conclusions: The present study reveals that traditional medicine practitioners in the central Middle Atlas region utilize many poisonous medicinal plants in traditional herbal medicine. Although these plants have therapeutic virtues, their toxic potency necessitates vigilance in use.Key words: Poisonous medicinal plants, Quantitative ethnobotany, Taditional phytotherapy, Central Middle Atlas region

Quantitative ethnopharmacological profiling of medicinal shrubs used by indigenous communities of Rawalakot, District Poonch, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan

This paper presents the first comprehensive report on traditional uses of medicinal shrubs of Rawalakot city, district Poonch, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. Ethobotanical data obtained from 120 informants were analyzed by relative frequency citation, use value, family use value, informant consensus factor, fidelity level and Jaccard index. In total, 41 shrubs belonging to 24 families and 34 genera were documented. Rosaceae was reported the most dominant family in the area (six species) and Berberidaceae showed maximum family use value (0.68). Leaves (35%) and fruits (33%) were the most commonly used plant parts and most of the medicines were prepared in the form of decoction. The high informant consensus factor value (0.94) was recorded for diabetic disease category. Medicinal plants with high fidelity level values (100% each) were Berberis lycium, Cydonia oblanga, Ricinus communis, Ziziphus jujuba and Nerium oleander. Berberis lycium was the most significant shrub in the area with highest use value (0.68). Relative frequency citation value was maximum for Rubus ellipticus (0.30), Nerium oleander and Indigofera heterantha (0.10 each). Percentage of similar plant uses ranged from 21.05 to 0.62% and dissimilarity percentage ranged from 32.50 to 0.66%. Out of the 41 shrub species, six were reported with new therapeutic uses and may represent new bioresources. These were Debregeasia salicifolia (diabetes), Desmodium elegans (anti-cancerous), Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (jaundice), Hypericum oblongifolium (arthritis), Sarcococca saligna (tuberculosis), Rubus niveus (chronic cough) and Otostegia limbata (renal disorders). We suggest that species reported with high use value should be involved in cultivation and agricultural practices for their sustainable use and those reported with new therapeutic uses should be employed in further biotechnological, pharmacological and clinical studies in order to validate their traditional uses.