Rank Order Priority Research Articles

Medicinal plants diversity among the oromo community in heban-arsi district of Ethiopia used to manage human and livestock ailments.

Medicinal plants are commonly employed mainly due their accessibility, affordability and potency. However, medicinal plants and the associated knowledge are disappearing at an alarming rate due to natural and anthropogenic causes and thus a need for their proper documentation conservation. This study was performed to document traditional knowledge related to use of medicinal plants in Heban-Arsi district, West-Arsi Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia. Interviews were conducted with 185 informants to identify medicinal plants used in traditional therapies in the study area. Informant consensus factor (ICF), rank order priority (ROP) values were computed, and preference ranking exercises were performed to assess the relative importance of medicinal plants. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to measure and compare medicinal plants knowledge between social groups. A total of 120 medicinal plants were identified for being used to treat different human and animal illnesses in the study area. Most of the medicinal plants (76.4%) were uncultivated ones obtained from different habitats. Leaf was the most frequently used plant part constituting 62.6% of preparations. Oral was the most commonly used route of remedy administration (46%) in treating diseases. Gastrointestinal ailments category had the highest ICF value (0.83). In the study area, the highest rank order priority (ROP) values were recorded for Dombeya torrida (J.F. Gmel.), Artemisia absinthium L., Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Del., Combretum pisoniiflorum Klotzsch) Engl., Celtis africana Burm. f, Ocimum gratissimum L. and Lagenaria sp. for their uses against snake poison, tuberculosis, liver disorder, stomachache, tuberculosis, febrile illness and liver disorder, respectively, each scoring a value of 100. Significant differences in medicinal plant use knowledge were recorded between male and female informants of different educational level, age and experience. Anthropogenic factors were the primary threats to medicinal plants in the area. The study area was found to be rich in medicinal plants that are useful in treating a wide range of human and animal illnesses. In future pharmacological and phytochemical investigations, priority needs to be given to medicinal plants of the highest ROP values and those that were reported against ailment categories scoring the highest ICF values.

Medicinal Plants Used by Oromo Community in Kofale District, West-Arsi Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia.

The purpose of this study was to record the utilization of medicinal plants by the Oromo people in the Kofale District, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia, to control human and animal health problems. Data regarding the use of medicinal plants were collected using ethnobotanical methods from 84 traditional medicine practitioners and 304 general informants sampled employing purposive and systematic random sampling methods, respectively, in the Kofale District. Data were analyzed using different indices, including a preference ranking exercise, informant consensus factor (ICF), fidelity level (FL) and relative popularity level (RPL). In the district, 106 medicinal plants were claimed to be used for the treatment of 43 human and 18 livestock illnesses, of which 75 (71%) were used to manage human health problems, 23 (21.5%) were used to treat both human and livestock ailments and eight (7.5%) were utilized to treat manage livestock health problems. Most (76.4%) plants were harvested from the wild. Leaves were the most commonly used plant part (55.6%) in remedy preparations. Skin diseases scored the highest ICF value (0.97), followed by gastrointestinal disorders (ICF = 0.95), cancer (ICF = 0.93), and hemorrhoids (ICF = 0.91). Medicinal plants that record the highest fidelity level (FL) (100%) and rank order priority (ROP) (100%) values included Justicia schimperiana, Embelia schimperi, Ekebergia capensis and Datura stramonium, which have been used to treat liver disorders, tapeworm infections, babesiosis, and rabies, respectively. There were significant differences (p<0.05) in the mean numbers of medicinal plants claimed by different social groups: older, illiterate, and traditional medicine practitioners reported higher mean numbers of medicinal plants than younger, literate, and general informants, respectively. This study indicated the richness of medicinal plant species in Kofale District. Medicinal plants with the highest FL and ROP values and those used to treat disease categories with the highest ICF values should be prioritized in future phytochemical and pharmacological investigations.

Influence of socio-demographic factors on medicinal plant knowledge among three selected ethnic groups in south-central Ethiopia

BackgroundThe influence of socio-demographic variables was widely explored to evaluate their impact on indigenous and local ethnobotanical knowledge. However, the studies conducted in Ethiopia mainly focused on rural areas. They were limited to exploring and documenting ethnobotanical knowledge and the associated impacts of socio-demographic variables in rural–urban interface areas among ethnic groups. Hence, this study aimed to document plant-based indigenous and local ethnomedicinal knowledge and the associated impacts of socio-demographic variables among selected three ethnic groups in south-central Ethiopia.MethodsEthnobotanical data were collected using semi-structured interviews with 189 key informants, floristic species inventories, and field observations. Quantitative approaches were used to evaluate the use values (UV) of the most important medicinal plants, the informant consensus factor (ICF), fidelity level (FL), relative popularity level (RPL), and rank-order priority (ROP). Statistical tests were applied to evaluate the influences of socio-demographic factors and associations between variables on local ethnobotanical knowledge across ethnic groups in different informant categories.ResultsStatistical analysis revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) in the mean number of medicinal plants reported among age categories. There was also a positive association between the respondent's age and plant knowledge acquisition. Croton macrostachyus Hochst. ex Delile, Albizia gummifera C.A.Sm., Zingiber officinale Roscoe, Aloe macrocarpa Tod., Gymnanthemum amygdalinum (Delile) Sch.Bip., Calpurnia aurea (Aiton) Benth, and Allium sativum L. had the highest use values among ethnic groups. The highest informant consensus factor values were recorded for circulatory system disorders (0.68) followed by febrile illness and reproductive organ complications (0.66 each) across the three studied ethnic groups. The highest FL, RPL, and ROP values were noted for Lactuca inermis Forssk., Moringa stenopetala (Baker f.) Cufod., Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, Allium sativum L., Citrus limon (L.) Osbeck, Ricinus communis L., Schinus molle L., Antiaris toxicaria (J.F.Gmel.) Lesch., Brucea antidysenterica J.F.Mill., Echinops kebericho Mesfin, Ocimum jamesii Sebald, Afrocarpus falcatus (Thunb.) C.N.Page, Searsia natalensis (Bernh. ex Krauss) F.A.Barkley, and Ricinus communis L. across ethnic groups in the study areas, which showed the conformity of knowledge on species curing potential and their prevalent uses.ConclusionThe study revealed that the ethnic groups of Gedeo, Oromo, and Sidama have considerable indigenous and local ethnobotanical knowledge practices. Statistical analysis shown high variation in the acquisition of local ethnobotanical knowledge among age groups, which boosted our understanding of the effects of socio-demographic factors on the local ethnobotanical knowledge dynamics. Thus, this finding advocates for efforts to repair the observed generation gap via continued professional support and educating local communities to preserve traditional knowledge and practices through systematic documentation.

Use of wild edible and nutraceutical plants in Raya-Azebo District of Tigray Region, northern Ethiopia

BackgroundAlthough there is a wide use of wild edible plants (WEPs) in Ethiopia, very little work has so far been done, particularly, in the Tigray Region, northern Ethiopia, to properly document the associated knowledge. The purpose of this study was, therefore, to document knowledge and analyze data related to the use of wild edible and nutraceutical plants in Raya-Azebo District of Tigray Region. The district was prioritized for the study to avoid the further loss of local knowledge and discontinuation of the associated practices because of the depletion of wild edible plants in the area mainly due to agricultural expansion and largely by private investors.MethodsA cross-sectional ethnobotanical study was carried out in the study District to collect data through individual interviews held with purposively selected informants, observation, market surveys, and ranking exercises. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were employed to analyze and summarize the data using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 16.ResultsThe study documented 59 WEPs, the majority of which (57.63%) were sought for their fruits. Most of the WEPs (49 species) were consumed in the autumn, locally called qewei, which includes the months of September, October, and November. Ziziphus spina-christi L. Desf., Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Del. and Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Miller were the most preferred WEPs. Both interviews and local market surveys revealed the marketability of Opuntia ficus-indica, Ziziphus spina-christi, Ficus vasta Forssk., Ficus sur Forssk., and Balanites aegyptiaca. Of the total WEPs, 21 were reported to have medicinal (nutraceutical) values, of which Balanites aegyptiaca and Acacia etbaica scored the highest rank order priority (ROP) values for their uses to treat anthrax and skin infections, respectively.ConclusionsThe current investigation demonstrated the wide use of WEPs in the district. In future nutritional composition analysis studies, priority should be given to the most popular WEPs, and nutraceutical plants with the highest ROP values.

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.

Vernacular Taxonomy, Cultural and Ethnopharmacological Applications of Avian and Mammalian Species in the Vicinity of Ayubia National Park, Himalayan Region.

Numerous investigations on plant ethnomedicinal applications have been conducted; however, knowledge about the medicinal use of wild animals is still limited. This present study is the second on the medicinal and cultural meaning of avian and mammalian species used by the population in the surrounding area of the Ayubia National Park, KPK, Pakistan. Interviews and meetings were compiled from the participants (N = 182) of the study area. The relative frequency of citation, fidelity level, relative popularity level, and rank order priority indices were applied to analyze the information. Overall, 137 species of wild avian and mammalian species were documented. Of these, 18 avian and 14 mammalian species were utilized to treat different diseases. The present research showed noteworthy ethno-ornithological and ethno-mammalogical knowledge of local people and their connection with fauna, which might be useful in the sustainable utilization of the biological diversity of the Ayubia National Park, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Furthermore, in vivo and/or in vitro examination of the pharmacological activities of species with the highest fidelity level (FL%) as well as frequency of mention (FM) might be important for investigations on faunal-based new drugs.

Cross-cultural diversity analysis: traditional knowledge and uses of freshwater fish species by indigenous peoples of southern Punjab, Pakistan

BackgroundFisheries have tremendous cultural and educational importance in human societies. The world is undergoing fast environmental and cultural changes, and local knowledge is being lost. Understanding how people interpret environmental change and develop practices in response to such change is essential to comprehend human resource use. This study was planned with the intent to document and conserve the knowledge about the uses of the freshwater fish fauna among the residents in South Punjab, Pakistan.MethodsSemi-structured interviews and questionnaires were conducted to collect data from informers (N = 88). Principal component analysis, relative frequency citation, fidelity level, relative popularity level, rank-order priority, and similarity index were used to analyze the fish data.ResultsOverall, a total of 43 species of fishes were utilized in the study region, but only 26 species were utilized ethnomedicinally to treat a variety of illnesses such as asthma, body weakness, burn, chicken pox, cold, cough, eyesight, hepatitis, impotence, joint pain, night blindness, skin burn, spleen treatment, stomach infection, and weakness. The uses of fishes were analyzed employing various indices. The highest use value (UV) of 0.86 was calculated for spotted snakehead (Channa punctata), whereas the lowest UV of 0.05 was attained by karail fish (Securicula gora). Moreover, Channa punctata, Cyprinus carpio, Labeo rohita, Oreochromis niloticus, Wallago attu, Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, Rita rita, Sperata seenghala, Notopterus notopterus, Labeo dyocheilus, Systomus sarana, Puntius punjabensis, Securicula gora, Ompok bimaculatus, and Ompok pabda were the most popular species with RPL = 1.0. Out of the total, 20 species had a “zero” similarity index, while the ethnomedicinal use of 12 species (i.e., Labeo dyocheilus, Labeo boggut, Systomus sarana, Puntius punjabensis, Aspidoparia morar, Securicula gora, Crossocheilus diplochilus, Mastacembelus armatus, Ompok bimaculatus, Ompok pabda, Labeo gonius, and Sperata seenghala) was documented for the first time for a variety of diseases (i.e., body weakness, stomach infection, skin burn, joint pain, impotence, asthma, spleen treatment, and chicken pox).ConclusionOur findings showed that the local people of the study area hold noteworthy traditional knowledge about the medicinal and cultural uses of fish species. Furthermore, a comprehensive analysis of active chemicals and in vivo and/or in vitro activities of chemicals derived from ichthyofauna with the highest FC as well as UVs could be interesting for research on new drugs.

Ethnoveterinary practices of medicinal plants among the Zemmour and Zayane tribes, Middle Atlas, Morocco

The widespread usage of medicinal plants in native nations' healthcare practices is a foundation for creating natural drugs. The current study sought to establish thorough ethnoveterinary knowledge of medicinal plants utilized for therapeutic reasons. The field investigation was carried out from January 2016 to December 2020 in the Zemmour and Zayane tribes (Middle Atlas). Three hundred local informants were interviewed, using open-ended and semi-structured interviews. The advantages, coverage, and significance of ethnoveterinary were quantified using a variety of parameters such as informant consensus factor, fidelity level, relative popularity level, rank-order priority, and Jaccard index. A total of 150 species and subspecies belonging to 129 genera and 56 families were employed in ethnoveterinary preparations. The study area's most commonly used ethnoveterinary plant species was Allium sativum L. (16.7%). Leaves are the most frequent plant part used (46.5%). The highest factor informant consensus value was 0.9 for digestive diseases. Artemisia herba-alba Asso and Asparagus officinalis L. Both show a 100% fidelity level for diarrhea and rabies, respectively. Eucalyptus globulus Labill. (rank-order priority = 74) was shown to be the most preferred plant species for fever remedies. The present study demonstrates that local communities in the Middle Atlas have consistent knowledge of ethnoveterinary plants. In this inquiry, we invite the attention of chemists and pharmacologists to further phytochemical and pharmacological studies of medicinal plants having high rank-order priority, fidelity level, and factor informant consensus significance. • Traditional veterinary medicine refers to the collective knowledge of an indigenous community about relationships between people and nature. • The field study was carried out from January 2016 to December 2020 in the Zemmour and Zayane tribes. • A total of 150 plant species belonging to 129 genera and 56 families were found to be used in ethno-veterinary practices • The present study showed that local communities in the Middle Atlas have consistent knowledge of ethno-veterinary plants.

Qualitative and Quantitative Ethnobotanical Survey in Al Baha Province, Southwestern Saudi Arabia

The documentation of ethnobotanical knowledge is useful for biocultural conservation, preserving the diversity of plants, and drug development. The present study was carried out to compile and document the knowledge and uses of plants in Al Baha Province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). A total of 81 knowledgeable informants of different sexes, ages, and status levels were randomly selected and interviewed. The majority of the informants (63%) were &gt; 60 years old. The collected data were qualitatively and quantitatively described using different quantitative indices [family importance value (FIV), use value (UV), and informant consensus factor (ICF)]. The fidelity level (FL), rank order priority (ROP), and relative popularity level (RPL) were determined for the plants (42 species) mentioned by at least three informants. A total of 97 plants belonging to 91 genera and 44 families were reported. The most commonly used parts were fruits (30.7%) and leaves (25.4%), whereas the most frequently used modes of preparation were maceration (24.7%) and direct application (23.3%). Most of the cited plants (49.5%) were traditionally used for gastrointestinal tract (GIT) disorders, whereas a few plants (6.2%) were used for the treatment of reproductive disorders. The most ethnobotanically important families were Lamiaceae (FIV = 0.35) and Apiaceae (FIV = 0.33). The highest UV was represented by Zingiber officinale (0.086) followed by Commiphora myrrha and Trigonella foenum-graecum (0.074). The level of agreement among the interviewees was remarkably high (ICF = 0.65–0.93) for plants that had the ability to cure infectious diseases. A low level of agreement (ICF = 0.33–0.48) was observed among the informants towards plants that were used to treat gastrointestinal tract, reproductive, hematological, and central nervous system disorders. There was a total and absolute disagreement (ICF = 0) among the informants regarding the plants that were used to treat renal, endocrine system, oncological/immunological, rheumatic, orthopedic, ear, nose, and throat (ENT), and inflammatory disorders. Six of the plants which were cited by three informants or more had a high healing efficacy (FL = 100) and forty species attained ROP values of 50 or above. Out of the 42 plants, 20 species were grouped as popular (RPL = 1), and the remaining plants (22 species) were unpopular (RPL &lt; 1). Curcuma longa, which showed the highest ROP value (100), was used to enhance immunity. In conclusion, various plant species in Al Baha province were used by the local communities for the treatment of different health problems. The documentation of these plants could serve as a basis for further scientific research and conservation studies.

Ethnobotanical survey on medicinal plants used for the treatment of diabetes mellitus by Ayurveda and traditional medicine practitioners in Galle district of Sri Lanka

Despite the wisdom of using medicinal flora as antidiabetic therapies by practitioners of Ayurveda and traditional medicine, the process of documenting this knowledge is untapped to date. The objective of the present survey was to record the knowledge and the utility of the medicinal plants used as antidiabetic remedies that have been used in clinical practice by Ayurveda and traditional medicine practitioners in Galle, Sri Lanka. Ethnobotanical data were collected from 132 registered Ayurveda and traditional medicine practitioners in Galle, Sri Lanka, through an open-ended semi-structured questionnaire. A total number of 28 medicinal plant species belonging to 20 families were reported. The leaves were the most cited part of the plant and decoction was the most popular method of preparation of antidiabetic remedies. The most cited medicinal plant was Salacia reticulate (relative frequency citation; RFC = 0.55) followed by Coccinia grandis (RFC = 0.48) and Syzygium cumini (RFC = 0.43). The most important family of utilization in therapies was Celastraceae (family importance value; FIV = 54.55%) followed by Cucurbitaceae (FIV = 53.79%). Aerva javanica had the highest use value (UV = 1.67) and the relative popularity level (RPL=0.75) in antidiabetic remedies. Sida alnifolia had the highest rank order priority of 30.00. This is the first survey revealing the significance of medicinal plants in antidiabetic remedies, used by Ayurveda and traditional medicine practitioners in Galle, Sri Lanka. The findings of the survey could promote the preservation of knowledge on the utilization of antidiabetic medicinal plants and the development of potential antidiabetic drug leads.

Medicinal waterbirds in the traditional healthcare system: an assessment of biodiversity–cultural linkages in Eastern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

BackgroundEastern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is home to a vast range of medicinal and edible waterbird species due to its diverse geographical environment. Waterbird species have been used for various ailments and cultural practices since ancient times, while ethno-pharmacological applications and cultural uses of waterbird species in this area have seldom been documented. This study is the first ethnomedicinal and cultural assessment of waterbird species, and the first compilation and listing of all known data on these species in Eastern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.MethodsInterviews and questionnaires were used to collect data from native respondents (N = 100). To analyze the data, principal component analysis (PCA), relative frequency of citation (RFC), fidelity level (FL%), relative popularity level (RPL), rank order priority, and similarity index were used.ResultsIn total, 64 waterbird species were utilized in cultural practices, of which 40 species are used to cure different infectious and chronic diseases such as cold, cough, flu, fever, respiratory disorders, asthma, TB, gastric ulcers, kidney stones, male impotency, obesity, paralysis, piles, cancer, arthritis, body pain, and weakness. PCA showed significant differences in the use of waterbird species among the local inhabitants of the study area, separated along the axis-2 (p < 0.05). The FL% of waterbird species varied from 12 to 100%. 100% FL was analyzed for four waterbird species, i.e., Charadrius mongolus (cold), Gallicrex cinerea (asthma), Anas platyrhynchos (cancer), and Esacus recurvirostris (body weakness). In this study, Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) was the most popular species used in the healthcare system of Eastern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with high RFC (4.06), FL% (100), and RPL (1.0) values.ConclusionWe concluded that waterbird species are more used for medicine and food purposes in the study area. However, in vitro/in vivo assessment of biochemical activities of waterbird species with a maximum FL% might be significant to produce novel drugs. Recent research shows important ethno-ornithological information about native people and their links with waterbird species, which might be helpful for the sustainable use of waterbird diversity in the research area.

Traditional Food and Medicine: Ethno-Traditional Usage of Fish Fauna across the Valley of Kashmir: A Western Himalayan Region

People have traditionally relied on fish to supply their major food and healthcare needs all across the world. However, there has been little focus on the traditional dietary, cultural identity, and integrity of traditional food systems in many rural Himalayan populations. The current study looks into the use of fish in traditional food and foraging practices, as well as its role in local traditional medicine and cultural practices. Semi-structured interviews and group discussions were used to collect data in the years 2020–2021. The data were analyzed using various statistical indices such as the fidelity level (FL), rank order priority (ROP), and relative popularity level (RPL). The data were then classified through a heat map, and ordination techniques were used to refine them even further. The current study identified 20 fish species of five families, with Cyprinidae (70%) as the dominant family. Three unique traditional fish preservation techniques were documented, namely: (1) smoking, (2) sun drying, and (3) pickling. The smoked fish are locally called fari, sun-dried fish are known as hugaad, and pickled fish are gaad anchaar. As a result of rapid modernization, fish has become a symbol of social class in the valley. In total, 17 diseases were identified, with joint pain being treated by the greatest number of species (N = 10). Flesh (43%) was the most commonly used part to treat various diseases. The mode of application of various fishbody parts for treating a variety of diseases was most commonly peroral (65%), followed by topical (35%). Schizopyge niger demonstrated the highest level of fidelity (82%) for joint pain. Schizopygeniger, Schizothorax curvifrons, Catla catla, Schizothorax esocinus, Schizothorax labiatus, and Schizothorax plagiostomus were the most popular (relative popularity level = 1.0). The rank order priority of six species was above 55 (Schizothorax plagiostomus (59.18), Labeo dyocheilus (61.99) Schizothorax labiatus (64.28), Schizothorax esocinus (68.36), Schizothorax curvifrons (73.19), and Schizopyge niger (82)). Two principal groups of six ethno-zoological categories (medicine, food, black magic, poultry, agricultural, and recreational) were identified using cluster analysis. Fish are also important as a source of livelihood and are closely associated with a local ethnic group known as Hanji/Haanz, who have extensive knowledge of ecology of the local fish species. Our research will contribute to filling a knowledge gap in the Kashmir Himalayan region, with policy implications for the protection and preservation of high-quality traditional knowledge for future generations. The findings of this documentation study can be used as an ethnopharmacological foundation for selecting fish in future pharmaceutical research.

Traditional Medicine Knowledge of Medicinal Plants Used in Laayoune Boujdour Sakia El Hamra Region, Morocco

ABSTRACT An ethnobotanical survey was conducted in Laayoune Boujdour Sakia El Hamra region to inventory medicinal plants of South of Morocco. 248 informants including 220 local inhabitants and 28 herbalists were interviewed. Data were analyzed using seven indices: Use Value (UV), botanical Family Use Value (FUV), Fidelity Level (FL), Rank Order Priority (ROP), Informant Consensus Factor (FIC) and Jaccard similarity Index (JI). The highest UV value was recorded for Acacia tortilis subsp. raddiana (UV = 0.44). Brassicaceae was the most frequently used by inhabitants of the region (FUV = 0.34). The highest FL was recorded for A. tortilis with a value of 100%. A. tortilis had the highest ROP with a value of 100% for treating gastrointestinal disorders, diabetes, and blood pressure. The highest FIC value was recorded for both hair loss and dandruff care and kidney disorder treatments (FIC = 1).

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.

Medicinal Plants Used in Ethnoveterinary Practices in Adea Berga District, Oromia Region of Ethiopia.

In Ethiopia, locally available materials, mainly medicinal plants, are commonly utilized to manage livestock diseases. However, this practice is currently being threatened by several factors including loss of traditional knowledge and depletion of plant resources. This calls for an urgent need to document the ethnoveterinary knowledge in the country and conserve the associated medicinal plants. The purpose of this study was, therefore, to document traditional knowledge on use of medicinal plants in the Adea Berga district, Oromia region of Ethiopia, to manage livestock ailments. Ethnobotanical data were collected largely through semistructured interviews conducted with purposively selected traditional healers of the district. The study identified 59 medicinal plants used in ethnoveterinary practices in the district. The great majority (90.4%) of the medicinal plants were used in fresh forms, which were mainly administered orally. The majority (65.4%) of the medicinal plants were gathered from the wild. Data revealed that yoke sore (wound) had the highest informant consensus factor (ICF) value (1.00), followed by leech infestation (0.92) and endoparasite infections (0.90). The highest fidelity level (FL) (100%) and rank order priority (ROP) (100%) values were obtained for the plants Nicotiana tabacum, Malva parviflora, and Calpurnia aurea that were used to treat leech infestation, retained placenta, and snake poisoning, respectively. Priority for further pharmacological and phytochemical investigations needs to be given to the aforementioned three plants with the highest FL and ROP values as such values may indicate their higher potency against the respective ailments.

Medicinal plants used to treat infectious diseases in the central part and a northern district of Bangladesh – An ethnopharmacological perception

IntroductionAntimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become more challenging to the treatment of infectious diseases. Easy access to antibiotics, self-medication and irrational uses of antibiotics have made this problem even worse in the developing countries like Bangladesh. However, the indigenous people of Bangladesh have been using traditional Ayurvedic medicine for centuries for the treatment of infections. The aim of study was to document the medicinal plants that are being traditionally used for the treatment of various types of infections in the central part and a northern district of Bangladesh through an ethnopharmacological survey. Materials and methodsThis survey involved interviewing 127 respondents including Ayurvedic and Unani practitioners (55.9 %), patients (16.5 %) and local inhabitants (27.6 %) to generate data that were analysed in the context of quantitave indices including Use Value, Informant Consensus Factor, Fidelity Level and Rank Order Priority. ResultsThe respondents recommended 71 medicinal plants belonging to 44 families that were used in this region for the treatment of various infections. The most cited plant families were Lamiaceae (26 citations), Meliaceae (23 citations) and Leguminasae (22 citations) whilst the most cited plant species wereAzadirachta indica A. Juss. (23 citations) and Ocimum tenuflorum L. (18 citations). Leaf was the most frequently used plant part in preparation. Plant species were documented based on rarity score, where 8.3 % species were found to be very rare. Most common method of preparation was power form (39 reports) followed by decoction. Bacterial pneumonia was recorded as highest FIC value with 0.94 with 19 use plants reported for 2 plant species. ConclusionThe present findings are encouraging to look into traditionally used plants to explore compounds which are responsible for anti-intective properties.

Ethno-botanical Survey on Medicinal plants used by Tribes of Karanja (Ghadge) Tahsil of Wardha District, Maharashtra, India

Introduction: Tribals or forest dwellers have much knowledge of the drugs growing around them. Most of this treasure of knowledge has been passed orally without any written documents. It is therefore very important to preserve and protect the traditional knowledge and also to prepare a digital data base of traditional medicine. Aim &amp; Objectives: Ethno-botanical survey on medicinal Plants used by the Tribes of Karanja (Ghadge) Tahsil of Wardha District, Maharashtra, India and to prepare the ethno-botanical database of study area. Material &amp; Methods: Ethno-botanical study was conducted through field surveys. Data was collected using questionnaire, interviews and discussions. The collected data was investigated using specific quantitative parameters including Informant Consensus Factor (ICF), Relative popularity level (RPL), Use value (UV), Fidelity level (FL), Relative frequency citation (RFC) and Rank order priority (ROP). Observations &amp; results: Total 7 local informants were interviewed for Ethno-botanical data. Total 65 plants associated to 46 families were verified, authenticated and then recognized with ethno medicinal uses. Informants used 10 types of parts of plant from 6 kind of habitat and do the management of the patients with 6 type of medicinal preparations through 5 routes of administrations. Values obtained by calculating ICF, UV, RFC, FL, RPL and ROP were suggestive of informant’s knowledge regarding particular plant species in treating the particular ailment. Conclusion: The present work would be useful in identification of newer species and their therapeutic applications.

Traditional Knowledge of Forest Medicinal Plants of Munduruku Indigenous People - Ipaupixuna

Aims: The traditional knowledge about the use of typical flora of forests such as the Amazon rainforest, is undoubtedly an intangible richness of indigenous populations. Recording this knowledge to value it is essential in the construction of contemporary history, especially in the present times of invasion of the Indigenous Territories. Thus, the objective of this research was to elucidate from ethnobotanical diagnoses the useful flora of Munduruku indigenous families, as a renewable and exploitable natural resource. The working hypothesis was to confirm the dependency of these local communities on the forests, while medicinal environments. &#x0D; Study Design: The structure of the research was based on three moments: 1. Intervention with the human component (conducting interviews with indigenous families); 2. Intervention with the plant component (preparation of the excicatas of the cited plants and taxonomic identification); 3. Analysis of human and plant components (ethnobotanical study).&#x0D; Place and Duration of Study: The research developed in a village called Ipaupixuna, whose indigenous families are from Munduruku ethnic group. The duration of the research was six (6) months.&#x0D; Methodology: The analysis was characterized by Quantitative ethnobotany whose variables analyzed were Relative Frequency of Citation, Use Valour, Level of Fidelity, Relative Popularity and Rank Order Priority. The statistical analysis comprised a Linear Pearson Correlation Matrix for dimensioning the correlation between the ethnobotanical variables.&#x0D; Results: The results showed rich diversity of species, with 110 plants being raised used by indigenous families in five categories: medicinal, food, crafts, construction and cosmetics. Arecaceae was the botanical family with the highest number of medicinal species. Dipteryx odorata was the specie with the highest Relative Frequency, while Plectranthus amboinicus and Caesalpinia ferrea as well as Fredericia chica presented high Use Value for the indigenous.&#x0D; Conclusions: The indigenous families of Munduruku ethnic group of Tapajós river Basin studied in this research, have in the Forest and in its backyards, sources of plants for multiple uses, thus evidencing the high dependence between indigenous people and Forests. The creation of new spaces called Medicinal Forests and Ethnogardens is essential to contributing to the health safety of indigenous families.

The use of fish and herptiles in traditional folk therapies in three districts of Chenab riverine area in Punjab, Pakistan

BackgroundLike botanical taxa, various species of animals are also used in traditional and modern health care systems. Present study was intended with the aim to document the traditional uses of herptile and fish species among the local communities in the vicinity of the River Chenab, Punjab Pakistan.MethodData collected by semi-structured interviews and questionnaires were subsequently analyzed using relative frequency of citation (FC), fidelity level (FL), relative popularity level (RPL), similarity index (SI), and rank order priority (ROP) indices.ResultsOut of total 81 reported species, ethnomedicinal uses of eight herptiles viz. Aspideretes gangeticus, A. hurum, Eublepharis macularius, Varanus bengalensis, Python molurus, Eryx johnii, Ptyas mucosus mucosus, Daboia russelii russelii and five fish species including Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, Cirrhinus reba, Labeo dero, Mastacembelus armatus, and Pethia ticto were reported for the first time from this region. Fat, flesh, brain, and skin were among the commonly utilized body parts to treat allergy, cardiovascular, nervous and respiratory disorders, sexual impotency, skin infections, and as antidote and anti-diabetic agents. Hoplobatrachus tigerinus, Duttaphrynus stomaticus, and Ptyas mucosus mucosus (herptiles), as well as Labeo rohita, Wallago attu, and Cirrhinus reba (fish) were top ranked with maximum informant reports, frequency of citations, and rank order priority. Uromastyx hardwickii, Ctenopharyngodon idella, H. molitrix, Cirrhinus mrigala, C. reba, L. rohita, L. calbasu, L. dero, and Pethia ticto were the species with 100% fidelity level. Furthermore, medicinal uses of Aspideretes gangeticus, Aspideretes hurum, Calotes versicolor, Daboia russelii russelii, Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, Cirrhinus reba, Labeo dero, Mastacembelus armatus, Pethia ticto, and Gagata cenia were reported for the first time.ConclusionAbout half of the reported species depicted zero similarity index with previously reported literature, which indicates strong associations of local inhabitants with animal species, particularly for therapeutic purpose. Inclusive studies on composition and bioactivities of the species with maximum use reports may contribute significantly in animal-based novel drugs discovery.

Medicinal plant use practice in four ethnic communities (Gurage, Mareqo, Qebena, and Silti), south central Ethiopia

BackgroundEthnic groups throughout the world have developed their own cultures expressed in the form of customs, taboos, and traditional healthcare systems. Traditional medicine system is one of the widespread cultures known throughout the world which is very much tied to cultural practices of the community or ethnic group. Medicinal plant treasure found in Gurage and Silti zones remained poorly characterized and understood. Therefore, this study was conducted in four ethnic groups: three from Gurage zone (Gurage, Qebena, and Mareqo) and one from Silti zone (Silti) which have lived in close proximity and contact for many centuries in the respective zones. In the present study, unique and shared cultural elements in connection to traditional herbal medicine were examined through investigation of the diversity of medicinal plants. Moreover, attempts have been made to determine similarities among the society in the medicinal plants they have used in general and in medicinal plant species considered culturally most important.MethodsIn a study that involved 320 randomly sampled informants, semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and participant observation were used and qualitative and quantitative data were collected. Descriptive statistics, rank order priority (ROP), informant consensus factor, Jaccard similarity coefficient, and clustering were used for data analysis.ResultsA total of 244 medicinal plant species and a fungal species used to treat human and/or livestock ailments were documented. The number of plants (80 plants, 33 %) with ROP value greater than 50% were considerably fewer than that of plants with ROP < 50% (164, 67 %). Jaccard similarity index and clustering analysis for all cited plants, among the respective studied districts, indicated that grouping generally followed the existing ethnic origin. On the contrary, clustering based on culturally important medicinal plant species (80 plant species, score ROP ≥ 50%) showed the influence of proximity and geographical orientation rather than ethnic relation.ConclusionsCulturally, most important plants (80 spp.) are widely used and best shared with nearby communities and this could imply current (new) knowledge being practiced in the communities. This knowledge must be documented and better utilized in a modern way including modernized use of traditional medicinal plants.