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The article focuses on the ethnobotany, analysing the migration of plants that accompany Bulgarians to new destinations. The functions and meanings of these plants are outlined. Plants ‘in migration’ in this way are considered in the light of the relationship between culture and place. Some plants perceived as traditionally Bulgarian are rediscovered and transferred to the receiving country and are present in the stories, cultural practices, and everyday lives of migrants. These plants can be examined through the lens of sensory anthropology, as bearers of knowledge and emotion through perception in the form of vision, smell, touch, taste. Plants can be seen as a synecdoche of the homeland. According to the interviews, Bulgarians abroad perceive some plants as emblematic of Bulgaria. Plants transported abroad are recognised by migrants as Bulgarian cultural heritage, through which cultural values and symbols are maintained. Bulgarians take abroad plants that give them aesthetic pleasure and remind them of Bulgaria, of home, of family, of childhood. An emotional connection with the homeland is also provided by the plants, the cultivation of which in the new place is an experiment with no guarantee of success. ‘Bulgarian’ plants taken and grown abroad (flowers, fruits, vegetables, spices, herbs) offer a wealth of sensory perception and have an aroma and/or taste often defined by respondents as the “aroma and taste of Bulgaria”. Plants in migration develop versatile functionality, facilitate adaptation, and concentrate narratives.

Background and aims: The present study identified the medicinal species of southern Lorestan province and explored their traditional uses and potential applications in modern medicine. Methods: The study involved face-to-face interviews and personal observations to gather information on local names and traditional medicinal uses of plants. Use value (UV) and informant consensus factor (ICF) were used to analyze the data obtained from the interviews. The UV index was calculated to determine the relative importance of medicinal species native to the region. Results: The plant species were identified using standard herbarium methods. A total of 106 medicinal species from 95 genera and 40 plant families were identified, which are utilized by locals for various medicinal purposes in southern Lorestan province. According to the findings, leaves (22.3%), seeds (19%), and fruits (14.5 %) were the most commonly used parts of medicinal species. Edible and infusion were identified as the primary treatment methods in traditional medicine in southern Lorestan province. Conclusion: The predominant therapeutic uses of medicinal species in traditional medicine in the area focused on treating digestive disorders.

Abstract Background As one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots, Indonesia contains over 25,000 plant species, including unconventional food plants (UFPs). These plants are integral to the dietary practices of rural communities, providing essential nutrients often overlooked in modern diets. However, the use of UFP is declining, with both their dietary and cultural values being undermined. In rural West Java, this decline in UFP biodiversity coincides with public health challenges related to malnutrition. This study aims to document the diversity of UFPs used by local communities in rural West Java, assess their nutritional value, and explore their consumption practices. Methods Data were collected using mixed methods, including interviews with 20 key informants and food frequency questionnaire administered to 107 women in three villages in the area. The nutritional compositions of documented UFPs were obtained from literature and analysis. Bivariate correlation was used to analyze the relationships between UFP consumption frequency and potential correlates. Results The study documented 52 species of UFPs from 29 families, many of which are rich in nutritional value. About half of respondents (56%) consumed UFPs moderately (2–3 times a week). UFP consumption frequency had a strong correlation (r = 0.70) with associated knowledge (r = 0.70, p

Abstract Background This study explores the medicinal plant knowledge of the Baiku Yao, a unique ethnic group in China. Despite existing research on their ethnobotanical practices, a comprehensive understanding of their medicinal flora remains lacking. This study aims to document and analyze the species distribution, utilization, and traditional knowledge of medicinal plants used by Baiku Yao. Methods Ethnobotanical surveys were conducted in various Baiku Yao villages across different seasons from 2019 to 2023. Informants were interviewed, and plant specimens were collected and identified. Statistical analyses, including the Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), were employed to understand plant importance in Baiku Yao culture. Results In an ethnobotanical survey conducted in the Baiku Yao region, 434 medicinal plant species were documented, highlighting significant ethnobotanical diversity and a deep cultural integration of traditional medicinal practices. The study revealed pronounced geographical variations in plant knowledge among villages, with a notable reliance on wild plants, as 85.48% were sourced from the wild, reflecting unique local ethnobotanical knowledge. Predominantly herbs and shrubs were used due to their accessibility and abundance in the local environment. High Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) values for certain species underscored their importance for local health needs and additional economic value. The utilization of various plant parts, particularly whole plants, roots, and leaves, indicates a holistic approach to medicinal applications, adapted to combat prevalent health issues such as skin and infectious diseases. The study also uncovered the Baiku Yao’s cultural practices for countering “Gu” afflictions—a range of pathogenic conditions—with 18 diverse antidote plants used for skin, digestive, and musculoskeletal disorders. The study underscores the imperative of preserving this rich medicinal heritage through innovative models that engage youth and leverage new media, ensuring the inheritance and evolution of Baiku Yao’s traditional knowledge. Conclusions Baiku Yao’s medicinal plant use reflects a deep, culturally ingrained knowledge, closely tied to local ecology. The study highlights the importance of preserving this unique ethnobotanical heritage and suggests interdisciplinary approaches for future research.

Abstract Background The traditional knowledge in southern Yemen is rich in wild medicinal and food plants, which has been documented in our previous studies. In addition, other significant and general traditional usage for the daily livelihood requirements of local people (beyond medicinal and food plant uses) has not been studied before and needs urgent documentation. Methods Ethnobotanical data on of wild plants used by local people in southern Yemen were collected by oral questionnaire interviews. Most informants (n = 1020) were local elderly from 15 different localities in southern Yemen. The local names and non-medicinal and non-food uses of plants were identified and analyzed. Results The ethnobotanical data resulted various traditional uses of 73 plant species distributed in 28 families. The most represented families were Fabaceae, Asteraceae and Malvaceae. The most growth forms were trees and shrubs. Seven main and common categories of traditional uses were determined and classified as handicraft, health aids, livestock husbandry and beekeeping, economic and commercial plant products, agriculture tools, construction timber and fuel. The most cited species were identified for Ziziphus spina-christi, Vachellia tortilis, Vachellia nilotica, Anisotes trisulcus, Dracaena hanningtonii (Sansevieria ehrenbergii) and Aerva javanica, which have multi-purpose values of traditional usage. Nine major traditional uses of local wild plants were recorded: handicraft, agriculture tools, products aid general health, economic products, construction timber, livestock husbandry, bee keeping, fuel and ornamental. Conclusions Despite the challenges on local traditional knowledge of wild plants, it still requested vital to many usages of traditional life and still have an economic value and heritage required of develop the daily livelihood level of the local people especially in rural areas. This includes the traditional uses of wild plants in handicraft skills, tools of agriculture, constructions. The importance of the continuity of traditional industries and their transmission to generations lies in the local population’s reliance on local natural resources without relying on external resources in situations such as wars. This is the first study that contributes to documenting and analyzing the indigenous knowledge on traditional general usage of wild plants in southern Yemen.

This study shows that ethnomedicine and ethnobotany have gained great relevance for their role in preserving ancestral knowledge about the use of medicinal plants. Despite the benefits, such as cultural preservation and biodiversity, new challenges arise, such as the lack of standardization and scientific validation, which limits their integration into modern medicine. Therefore, this systematic review aims to assess the documentation, evaluation, and conservation of medicinal plants and their therapeutic applications across different cultures, using the systematic literature review (SLR) methodology. The searches were conducted in electronic databases, such as Scopus, EBSCO, and Web of Science, following PRISMA protocol guidelines and focusing on studies published between 2007 and 2024. Research gaps were identified, and questions were developed to better understand ethnomedicinal practices, their validation, and conservation. A total of seventy studies were selected, documenting a wide diversity of medicinal plants, with a significant focus on the conservation of traditional knowledge. However, critical gaps were identified in the scientific validation and integration of this knowledge into conservation policies. The results of the thematic analysis highlight the need for standardized protocols and a multidisciplinary approach to validate and preserve ethnomedicinal knowledge, ensuring its relevance in modern medicine and its transmission to future generations.

Astragali radix (AR, namded Huangqi in Chinese) is the dried root of Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bge. var. mongholicus (Bge.) Hsiao or Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bge. As a widely used ethnomedicine, the biological activities of AR include immunomodulatory, anti-hyperglycemic, anti-oxidant, anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-tumor, cardioprotective, and anti-diabetic effects, with minimum side effects. Currently, it is known that polysaccharides, saponins, and flavonoids are the indispensable components of AR. In this review, we will elaborate the research advancements of AR on ethnobotany, ethnopharmacological practices, phytochemicals, pharmacological activities, clinical uses, quality control, production developments, and toxicology. The information is expected to assist clinicians and scientists in developing useful therapeutic medicines with minimal systemic side effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Societal Impact Statement Summary As the second‐leading cause of mortality worldwide, cancer is a major focus of drug discovery research. Traditional plant knowledge can guide the search for undiscovered compounds, but the efficacy of this approach for cancer, a highly complex disease affecting diverse tissues, is unknown. We investigated the patterns underlying plant selection for cancer treatment globally, finding certain lineages are repeatedly targeted. While this indicates therapeutic value, their relatedness with plants used for unrelated ethnobotanical uses suggests that plants are probably selected to treat cancer‐associated symptoms, rather than addressing tumour growth. Careful re‐examination and scoring of ethnobotanical reports may make the prediction of lineages for drug discovery more informative. Cancer is a highly diverse disease and as the second‐leading cause of death worldwide is a focus of drug discovery research. Natural products have been shown to be a useful source of novel molecules for treating cancer. It is likely there are many plants with undiscovered molecules of therapeutic value, however identifying new leads from the vast diversity of plants is very challenging. Traditional knowledge might inform bioprospecting by predicting lineages of plants rich in therapeutically useful molecules. We characterise the phylogenetic diversity of plants used in traditional cancer management using a comprehensive genus‐level phylogeny of angiosperms, and a list of 597 genera used globally to treat different cancers. We phylogenetically predict which lineages may have elevated potential for drug discovery and assess the quality of the prediction. We demonstrate the independent and repeated targeting of specific lineages of plants by different peoples in different parts of the world. However, the lineages we report here as rich in plants used in traditional cancer management coincide with those for other ethnobotanical applications and contain few plants with proven anti‐cancer activity. That the same lineages are used to treat different cancers is suggestive of independent discovery of therapeutic value. However, it is likely that the traditional knowledge explored here is shaped by the selection of plants conferring milder effects for treating wider symptoms, such as tiredness or nausea, rather than for halting tumour growth. Accurate prediction of useful plant lineages for cancer management requires more nuanced information than is commonly provided in ethnobotanical records. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Wild food plants (WFPs) play an important role in the traditional dietary habits of various indigenous communities worldwide, particularly in mountainous regions. To understand the dynamics of food preferences, cross-cultural studies on food plants should be conducted across diverse ethnic groups in a given area. In this context, the current study investigated the use of WFPs by seven different cultural groups in the Kashmir Himalayan Region. In this area, people gather wild plants and their parts for direct consumption, traditional foods, or sale in local markets. Despite this reliance, documentation of the food system, especially concerning WFPs, is notably lacking. Hence, our research aimed to document WFPs, along with associated traditional ecological knowledge, and identify major threats to their long-term sustainability in Division Muzaffarabad. Methods: Through a comprehensive approach involving questionnaires, interviews, focus groups, and market surveys, we gathered data from 321 respondents. PCA was performed to analyze threats and plant use using "factoextra" in R software. Origin Pro was used to create a chord diagram, while R software was used to generate a Polar heat map. Additionally, a Venn diagram was created using Bioinformatics software. Results: The study included 321 informants, of whom 75.38% were men and 24.61% were women. In total, 113 plant taxa from 74 genera and 41 botanical families were reported. Polygonaceae and Rosaceae accounted for the majority (17 species each), followed by Lamiaceae (7 species). Leaves were the most used part as food sources (41.04%), followed by fruits (33.33%). Most of the species are consumed as cooked (46.46%) and as raw snacks (37.80%). A total of 47 plant species were collected and cooked as wild vegetables, followed by 40 species used as fruits. This study is the first to describe the market potential and ecological distribution of WFPs in the study area. Cross-comparison showed that utilization of WFPs varies significantly across the region and communities, including their edible parts and mode of consumption. Jaccard index (JI) value ranged from 5.81 to 25. Furthermore, the current study describes 29 WFPs and 10 traditional food dishes that have rarely been documented in Pakistan's ethnobotanical literature. Climate change, invasive species, expansion of agriculture, and plant diseases are some of the most significant threats to WFPs in the study area. Conclusions: The older age group has more knowledge about WFPs compared to the younger generation, who are not interested in learning about the utilization of WFPs. This lack of interest in information about WFPs among the younger generation can be attributed to their limited access to markets and availability of food plants in the study area. Traditional gathering of food plants has been reduced in younger generations during recent years; therefore, it is crucial to develop effective conservation strategies. These efforts not only safeguard indigenous flora, food knowledge, and cultural heritage, but they also contribute to food security and public health by utilizing local wild foods in the examined area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medicinal macrofungi, like prized plants and animals, have dietary, therapeutic and commercial significance. This knowledge, anchored in the traditional healthcare system, warrants the identification of the most prominent species harbouring novel natural products. A traditional ethnobiological approach was adopted to collect ethnomycological data by interviewing 110 informants (95 men and 15 women) inhabiting 10 settlements in Bannu District, Pakistan. Visiting the remote nomadic sites revealed the most unique data of its type. This data was assessed and correlated with previous studies, comparing the standard numerical indices: informant consensus factor, fidelity level, use value, relative frequency of citation and Jaccard index. Tradition medicinal uses of 30 species of wild macrofungi (belonging to 19 genera and 12 families) are documented here. Podaxis pistillaris macrofungi was preference ranked with priority therapeutic uses, medicinally for stomach problems, as an antipyretic, for erotic uses, as an immune booster and as an antidiabetic; it is also nutritionally significant. Temperature and humidity are key factors for the growth of macrofungi generally in Pakistan (in spring and during the monsoon season), while the dynamic frequency of rain in the rainy season due to the impact of climate change cannot be neglected. Indigenous communities divided the ethnomycological potential of macrofungi into three main clusters: (a) edible macrofungi, for treating various disorders and as nutritional supplements; (b) non-edible macrofungi, medicinally important or just poisonous; (c) unknown or unused, without any known utility. Importantly, eight novel species with traditional uses are reported here, and the present work is the first ethnomycological study of macrofungi from Pakistan. This research aims to trace the traditional knowledge related to the naturally occurring medicinal macrofungi in the Bannu District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Documentation of new medicinal species and novel uses of existing species reflect a healthy relationship between inhabitants of the Bannu District and wild medicinal macrofungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ethiopia is recognized as one of the centers of origin for the diversity of many plant species, including medicinal plants. Throughout the country, a large proportion of the population relies on these therapeutic plant species for primary healthcare. While such traditional medicinal knowledge has been documented in some regions, there is a lack of information from the Quara district of northwestern Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to document the indigenous and local knowledge of the use of medicinal plants among three ethnic groups residing in the area. Methodology: An ethnobotanical study was conducted from August 2022 to October 2023 in ten kebeles of the Quara district. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, field walks, and focus group discussions with 286 informants using snowball, purposive, and random sampling techniques. Quantitative analyses included Rahman's similarity index (RSI), informant consensus factor (ICF), and direct matrix ranking (DMR). Descriptive statistics were used to analyze basic ethnobotanical data. Results: A total of 128 medicinal plant species from 112 genera and 50 families were documented and used to treat 14 disease categories. There was a 28% overlap in medicinal plant knowledge among the three ethnic groups studied. Fabaceae was the most represented family with 22 species. Trees accounted for the majority of the documented plants (37.5%), and leaves were the most commonly used plant parts (23.1%). Oral administration (56.7%) of plant extracts was the primary mode of remedy preparation and use. The highest ICF value (0.93) was recorded for circulatory and blood-related disorders. The study identified nine plants and 39 therapeutic uses not previously reported in Ethiopia. The RSI showed high overlap with neighboring areas and low similarity with distant areas. Top-ranked multipurpose plants were Ziziphus spina-christi and Terminalia leiocarpa, with agricultural expansion and fuelwood collection identified as major threats. Conclusion: The findings demonstrate the rich diversity of medicinal plants and associated traditional knowledge in the Quara district. The high ethnobotanical indices warrant further phytochemical and pharmacological investigations. Integrated conservation efforts are recommended to address the challenges facing these valuable plant resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social roles have fostered discussions on gender-related differences in medicinal plant knowledge. However, this variable has not been analyzed in many studies, and investigations often claim that belonging to a specific gender will determine a social role that will, in turn, direct the variation of local ecological knowledge. Therefore, we test whether the influence of gender on medicinal plant knowledge and use is mediated by people's social roles. We conducted Structural Equation Modeling to assess the direct effects of gender and the indirect effects through social roles on (1) the number of cited species, (2) the prevalent area for resource collection (natural areas × homegardens), and (3) the exclusiveness of plant use (only plants versus plants and industrialized medicines or only industrialized medicines). We observed that gender impacted all metrics of knowledge and use of medicinal species. All social roles influenced knowledge of medicinal species to some extent. However, not all of them had a gender-related indirect effect. Thus, we conclude that both gender and social roles directly and indirectly influence knowledge of medicinal species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The First International Virtual Exchange between African and New Zealand Researchers IVEANZR hosted by the University of Canterbury (NZ) was held via Zoom over 2 h on 15 May 2024. There was no registration fee for the conference. The purpose of the virtual conference was to provide a forum for postgraduate students and researchers to present their latest research in an international conference environment but without the burden of a registration fee and the prohibitive cost of international travel, particularly for many emerging researchers. There were 148 registered participants from several countries in the conference and nine presentations were made successfully. The successful event supports the notion that a conference held virtually is a sustainable, low carbon emission, interactive way to share knowledge across international borders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cirebon Regency is one of the few Indonesian batik craft center which still use natural dyes in handwritten batik making. The natural dyes are generally extracted from plants. The kind of plants used as natural dyes source for batik in Cirebon Regency are not yet known. This ethnobotanical research aimed to describe the kinds of plants and their characteristics, the frequency of citation by respondents, the parts of the organs used, the sources of obtaining plants, the colors produced, usage technique, as well as the role of using natural dyes in batik to support implementation of green economy. The research approach was exploratory descriptive through observation and interview techniques for data collection. The research was carried out at Kebon Gedang Block, Ciwaringin Village, Cirebon Regency, Indonesia in September 2023. Thirty respondents were selected by purposive sampling method and subjected to the interview. The results showed there were 14 plants species from 12 families used as natural dyes. The most frequently used species were Mangifera indica and Indigofera tinctoria. The organ most widely used was the bark which comes from the purchased, and the color generally produced was brown. The most frequently coloring method used was boiling technique. This research is the first study in this area and useful for providing data and strategic potential for developing local plants as environmentally friendly natural dyes, as well as supporting efforts to use natural dyes in the batik industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present review aims to explore the traditional plant knowledge and utilization practices among the local tribal communities in Yavatmal district, Maharashtra, India. To document ethnobotanical uses, the published literature including journals, floras and other online published sources was surveyed. A total of 370 taxa belonging to 290 genera and 82 families were identified. Local communities employ these plant species for various purposes. Traditional medicinal practices in local communities involve the use of both monoherbal and polyherbal remedies. Notably, this study indicated a higher prevalence of dermatological and gastrointestinal disorders in the district. Interestingly, research has also found that 34 invasive plant species are being utilized by the local tribal communities for healing various ailments. We have also computed the citation index (CI) and use index (UI) for each species. This study illuminates the rich traditional plant knowledge and its multifaceted applications within the local tribal communities of Yavatmal district of Maharashtra, India. The documentation of traditional plant knowledge in this region provides valuable insights into conservation efforts and the development of sustainable practices that respect the intricate bonds between people and nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Wild fruit plant species provide medicinal and nutritional benefits. • A total of 83 plant species from 63 genera and 31 families have been documented in the Ehlanzeni district of Mpumalanga. • The nutraceutical benefits of some wild fruit plants are yet to be explored. • The development of large-scale cultivation methods for wild fruit plants is necessary. Globally, plants serve as an important primary source of livelihood, mainly in rural communities. Food and health security are increasingly a concern in developed and developing countries, with a growing number of antimicrobial drug-resistant microbes and unwanted side effects of drugs challenging primary healthcare systems. Alternative sources of nutrition and medicine are thus necessary to curb food insecurity and resolve long-standing and emerging health issues. This review is a critical appraisal of the existing knowledge of wild fruit species in Mpumalanga Province, South Africa. Information on the ethnobotanical use of wild fruits in Mpumalanga province was acquired from various scientific databases and ethnobotanical literature. A sum of 83 plant species of 63 genera and 31 families have been documented in the Ehlanzeni district of Mpumalanga. Carissa spinarum L., Strychnos madagascariensis Poir., and Strychnos spinosa L. were some of the most commonly used plant species in Mpumalanga Province. Seventy six percent of the wild fruit species have medicinal uses, whereas 51 % have nutritional uses. The study revealed that ethnobotanical studies on wild fruit species were conducted in Ehlanzeni district municipality, which showed that there is still a dearth of information in Mpumalanga province, South Africa. The study reveals that the medicinal and nutritional uses of wild fruit species in Mpumalanga Province are not fully explored across different ethnic groups, and their economic significance is also insufficiently determined. Therefore, more ethnobotanical studies are needed to document the nutritional, medicinal, and economic value of these plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Engelhardia roxburghiana Wall is a plant of the Juglandaceae family, and its leaves is the main part used as a medicine. It is used to relieve heat and pain, gasification, and dampness. The purpose of this review is to provide a systematic review about the botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology of this plant. Key findings: Many compounds have been isolated and identified from the plant, including flavonoids, triterpenoids, steroids, quinones, essential oils, and other types of chemical constituents. Extensive pharmacological activities of the extracts or compounds of E. roxburghiana Wall in vivo and in vitro were mainly confirmed, including anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-allergic effects. Summary: In this paper, the botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacology of E. roxburghiana Wall were reviewed. In the future, E. roxburghiana Wall needs further study, such as paying more attention to quality control and the utilization on agriculture. In addition, discussing the medicinal components of decoction as well as the toxicity will also contribute to the progress of clinical trial studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This mini-review is a compilation of research data on the phytochemistry, pharmacology, and various therapeutic potentials of Argemone mexicana. A. mexicana is a well-known medicinal plant that is used in several ethnomedicinal treatments including for the treatment and management of skin diseases, inflammations, warts, tumors, malaria, jaundice, rheumatism, leprosy, and microbial infections. The plant consists of alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, long-chain aliphatic alcohol, amino acids, carboxylic acid, steroids, carbohydrates, and phenols. The ethnopharmacological relevance of the plant includes the application of the plant extract in Ayurveda and other traditional healthcare as an antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and larvicidal, as well as for wound healing, hepatoprotection, and sterilizing activities. It can be concluded from this mini-review that A. mexicana has broad applications that are connected to various pharmacological and phytochemical properties of the plant. This work provides some detailed evidence and suggestions for the medicinal application of this plant to improve the condition of mankind. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wild vegetables (WVs) have been an essential source of human nutrition since ancient times. Foraging is a millennia-old practice that has gained more attention recently and is becoming fashionable, especially in restaurants in urban areas, as they attract customers who see WVs as an innovative sensory element and specialty food. Some cooks have used very few WVs for decades, but most chefs have only recently introduced them in their modern restaurants. Our study aims to have a deeper understanding of the diversity of WVs used by restaurants in the Lombardy region in Northern Italy and to know how they are introduced onto different menus, as well as the source of knowledge and the innovation paths related to the use/introduction of WVs in the selected sample of restaurants. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 restaurant managers, chefs, and their professional foragers in the Lombardy region in Northern Italy in 2022; fifty-four wild plant taxa were recorded to be used in the considered restaurants. The collected data were analyzed to understand the current situation and the potential developments of this practice by exploring the reasons/motivations that underpin the inclusion of WVs in restaurants. A broad spectrum of restaurants was considered to evaluate the potential differences in handling and sourcing these ingredients. The results demonstrated that this trend has mainly been driven by attempts to revitalize traditional cuisines and to generate a positive impact on health, but the actual culinary preparations based upon WVs are often original and remarkably diverge from the Italian food ethnobotanical heritage. Moreover, concerns related to the environmental sustainability of these practices have been addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose Wild edible plants have been an integral part of the human diet throughout history and are still affordable and widely accepted in food security. Based on the research results, these plants are valuable for survival during food shortages, as a supplement to the daily diet, as a source of income in developing populations, and as part of the identity of local communities. They can also be critical genetic resources for obtaining new crops with better performance and taste. For natural ecosystem management, the value of preserving and exploiting medicinal and edible plants of rangelands is one of the most essential values of rangelands. In this regard, the present study was conducted in order to identify and document the ethnobotanical knowledge related to the wild edible plants of Bastam rangelands, which are used in the social and economic life of local communities, and a wide variety of these plants has taken a significant part of the diet among local communities. Materials and methods This research was done in order to record the wild edible plants of the Rangelands of Bastam district, which is one of the summer rangelands of Semnan province. Field surveys were carried out in 2021 and 2022 so that the botany knowledge of people was recorded using field observations, participatory observations, and semi-structured interviews from 44 interviewees in 12 villages of the region during fieldwork. The relative frequency of quotation index (RFC) and use value Index (UV) were used as quantitative indices for data analysis. Results This study's results showed that 39 species of wild edible plants belonging to 16 families and 29 genera were identified in the study area. The largest plant species in the region are Lamiaceae (7 plant species), followed by Asteraceae (6 species), Amaryllidaceae, and Apiaceae (each with five species). The dominant vegetative form of plants in the area was herbs. Among the used plant parts, young leaves (21 species) were the most used plant parts, followed by young aerial parts (16 species). Studies also showed that among different consumption modes, most food species were cooked (30 species). On the other hand, the human age had a positive relationship with traditional knowledge in using wild edible plants in the studied area, and women have a higher level of native knowledge in using wild edible plants than men. Among the identified species, Sabi (Allium iranicum), Siyr kelagh (Allium umbilicatum), Shengi (Tragopogon graminifolius), Jiyjo (Lepidium draba), and Ghazeneh (Urtica dioica) had the highest use value (UV). Conclusion The findings of this study can make a significant contribution to the identification, conservation, and use of wild edible plants in the study area as a food source, and since no ethnobotanical study has been reported from Shahrud city, especially about wild edible plants. Therefore, the results of this study can provide valuable information about wild edible plants from the rangelands of this region. Also, identifying these plants for conservation strategies and sustainable use requires close cooperation with local communities, which are the primary users of these plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: As one of the world's biodiversity hotspots, Indonesia contains over 25,000 plant species, including unconventional food plants (UFPs). These plants are integral to the dietary practices of rural communities, providing essential nutrients often overlooked in modern diets. However, the use of UFP is declining, with both their dietary and cultural values being undermined. In rural West Java, this decline in UFP biodiversity coincides with public health challenges related to malnutrition. This study aims to document the diversity of UFPs used by local communities in rural West Java, assess their nutritional value, and explore their consumption practices. Methods: Data were collected using mixed methods, including interviews with 20 key informants and food frequency questionnaire administered to 107 women in three villages in the area. The nutritional compositions of documented UFPs were obtained from literature and analysis. Bivariate correlation was used to analyze the relationships between UFP consumption frequency and potential correlates. Results: The study documented 52 species of UFPs from 29 families, many of which are rich in nutritional value. About half of respondents (56%) consumed UFPs moderately (2–3 times a week). UFP consumption frequency had a strong correlation (r = 0.70) with associated knowledge (r = 0.70, p < 0.01) and a weak correlation with age (r = 0.240, p = 0.015), livestock possession (r = 0.260, p = 0.008), and family size (r = − 0.220, p = 0.02). Motivations for UFP consumption included availability as free food (33%), medicinal value (26%), nostalgic value (23%), and preferred taste (18%). Most respondents (92%) agreed that consumption has declined compared to the past, with perceived reduced availability and lack of knowledge cited as the primary reasons for the declining trend. Conclusions: UFP use is common in the study area, where local communities value these plants for their critical roles in diet, medicine, and culture. Given their significant potential to meet dietary needs, educating and raising awareness about UFPs can enhance their consumption and contribute to food and nutrition security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Toothache, often caused by tooth decay, cracks, or sensitivity to temperature, is one of the most distressing types of pain. Medicinal plants have long been used in traditional medicine and ethnobotanical knowledge for treating toothache. This study aims to identify medicinal plants used in Iranian ethnobotanical practices to alleviate toothache. Methodology: In this review, articles were searched using keywords such as medicinal plants, Iran, tooth, toothache, and ethnobotany. Databases including Google Scholar, SID, Magiran, PubMed, and Scopus were utilized for the search. Relevant ethnobotanical articles were reviewed for this study. Results: Medicinal herbs such as Origanum vulgare, Papaver somniferum, Mentha aquatica L., Mentha spicata L., Ferula persica Willd, Glycyrrhiza glabra L., Perovskia abrotanoides Kar., Dianthus caryophyllus, Viola odorata, Astragalus verus, Zingiber officinale, Allium sativum, Thymus danensis are identified as the most effective plants against toothache in traditional medicine. Conclusion: Iran's diverse herbal flora and rich ethnobotanical knowledge offer valuable insights and resources for the treatment of toothache. The findings of this study highlight the importance of incorporating this traditional knowledge into pharmacological research to develop effective anti-toothache, drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Hypertension, characterized by elevated arterial blood pressure, constitutes a significant risk factor for a range of severe health complications, including cardiovascular disease, renal impairment, atherosclerosis, ocular damage, and stroke. This study aims to identify medicinal plants traditionally employed in the western region of Iran for the management of hypertension. Method: A comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify ethnobotanical knowledge pertaining to the use of medicinal plants for hypertension management in western Iran. The search encompassed the following databases: Google Scholar, SID, Magiran, PubMed, and Scopus. Relevant articles were retrieved using the keywords "medicinal plants," "Iran," "blood pressure," "Urmia," "Tabriz," "Kurdistan," "Kermanshah," "Ham," "Khuzestan," and "ethnobotany." Results: Medicinal plants including Foenkulum vulgare Mill., Achillea millefolium L., Fumaria officinalis L., Apium graveolens, Urtica dioica L., Crataegus pontica C. Koch., Rheum ribes L., Allium schoenoprasum, Achillea biebersteinii, Achillea millefolium, Prunus cerasifera, Gentian olivieri, Olea europaea L., Rumex pulcher L. and Crataegus monogyna L. are antihypertensive medicinal plants in western Iran. Conclusion: Emerging evidence suggests that certain medicinal herbs and spices possess antihypertensive properties, demonstrating their potential as adjunctive or alternative therapeutic agents for blood pressure management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acanthus ilicifolius (family Acanthaceae) is a well-known mangrove plant that is commonly found in India, Australia, and Southeast Asia countries. In this review, this plant is discussed to provide a comprehensive database on its ethnobotanical aspects, as well as phytochemicals, and pharmacological activities. The findings summarised that A. ilicifolius contains mainly flavonoids, alkaloids, and various glycosides. The phytochemicals isolated from the plant have been scientifically proven to possess medicinal properties such as antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic, anticancer, anti-acne, anti-helminthic, anti-allergic, and anti-asthmatic properties. This study provides comprehensive and updated data on the phytoconstituents and pharmacological activities of A. ilicifolius's from various research. This information is important for future research exploration on the plant especially in the investigation of the efficacy and safety of the plant's compounds toward the application in treating diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• In the last decade, there has been a greater publication focus on local markets. • Studies in urban ethnobotany demand new theoretical and methodological approaches. • America has the highest number of articles on medicinal plants in local markets. • There is a great opportunity to adopt a decolonial perspective in local markets. • In terms of numbers, native species are the most relevant in local markets. The rising demand for medicinal plants in urban settings, coupled with the rapid urbanization process, has spurred researchers to document the biological diversity of the plant trade in numerous regions and investigate potential health and environmental consequences associated with this commerce. This article provides a comprehensive review of the ethnobotany of medicinal plants sold in local markets. It delves into the most current themes explored in ethnobotanical studies, focusing on the socioeconomic and cultural aspects of the continents and countries covered. A total of 170 articles on medicinal and/or magical-religious plants were analyzed. We note that many recent studies still lack a foundation in theoretical and hypothetical frameworks, and other limitations, indicating challenges in applying that research to address observed health and environmental problems. We emphasize the socioeconomic and cultural data from participating groups, given the significant role that the plant trade plays in maintaining cultural identities and serving low-income populations in both urban and rural environments. Nevertheless, the importance of more participatory and interdisciplinary approaches in studies conducted in urban environments becomes imperative. Moreover, the prevalence of urban ethnobotanical research in developing countries opens up opportunities for studies to adopt a decolonizing perspective, recognizing not only the protagonism of global south countries in the development of research in urban ethnobotany, but also the sociabilities and non-hegemonic knowledge about medicinal plants held by various social subjects involved in the commercial chain of medicinal plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Dioscorea bulbifera L. is well known for its diverse chemical composition and medicinal applications. • This systemic review covers the ethnobotany, phytochemistry, pharmacological importance and toxicity of D. bulbifera L. • Various clinical studies included in this review validate the folk usage of this herb. • The findings presented herein provide a stepping stone for future investigations into the mechanism of action of the formulations or metabolites derived from it and delve into their potential as pharmaceutical agents. Dioscorea bulbifera L. (Dioscoreaceae) is extensively being used in African, Chinese and Indian traditional medicinal systems since ages. It is an ingredient in many herbal and Ayurvedic preparations that are used against various ailments. The current study is aimed to systematically review and document findings on ethnobotany, phytochemistry, pharmacology, nutritive value and toxicity of the herb. The study is intended to overcome the inconsistency between the traditional and pharmacological applications of the herb concerning its folkloric use and offer novel insights for future researchers. The literature was systematically collected from various offline and online sources using relevant keywords. Electronic databases including Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, Springer Online, Research Gate, Scopus etc. were used to retrieve the relevant information. D. bulbifera L. is widespread in tropical and temperate regions of Asia, Africa and America. In traditional medicinal systems, it is used widely to cure sore throat, skin diseases, ulcers, boils, piles, pain, inflammation, dog bites, snake bites, food poisoning, asthma, cough, tuberculosis, cold, jaundice, malaria, typhoid of children, contraceptives, diabetes, ophthalmia, pink eye conjunctivitis etc. Among bioactive constituents, aglycone types of steroidal saponins dioscorin(e), dioscin(e), diosbulbin, and diosgenin possess significant biological activities. The chemical structures of the phytoconstituents presented in this review are drawn using ChemDraw Ultra software. The clinical studies included in this review have been performed to validate the folk usage of this herb. However, more studies are required to be done on scientific and clinical aspects to support its therapeutic applications. The updated information provided in this systematic review would open new perspectives for performing in-depth analysis of pharmacological research in future. The study would be useful for improving the clinical use of the herb and is surely going to bridge a gap between the traditional and modern use of scientific research for future researchers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hinduism has profound religious beliefs and cultural connections with many plants employed in various religious rituals to worship gods and goddesses. Most of these plants are believed to have curative properties for many ailments. In view of the Hindu population decline in Bangladesh during the last decades, there is a need to gather ethnopharmacological data on these sacred plants. This study focuses on documenting the therapeutic uses of plants significant to Hindu practices in southwestern Bangladesh. Through free listing interviews with 28 Hindu participants, medico-religious data on plants were collected using open-ended and semi-structured questionnaires. Results revealed 56 plant species from 32 botanical families as religiously sacred, with Aegle marmelos being most culturally significant. The study identified 89 diseases treated by these plants, with Curcuma longa being the most cited species, followed by Hibiscus rosa-sinensis. It introduced two new ethnomedicinal plant species, Oxystelma esculentum and Reinwardtia indica, previously unreported in Bangladesh. Additionally, new medicinal uses were uncovered, highlighting the intricate relationship between culture, religion, and traditional medicinal knowledge within the Bangladeshi Hindu community. This study represents the first attempt to compile a comprehensive list of plants utilized in Hindu religious practices in Bangladesh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Medicina Naturista is the property of Sociedad Europea de Medicina Naturista Clasica (Seccion Espanola) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The Mediterranean Basin's diverse climates and ecosystems have shaped a rich botanical heritage through centuries of selective cultivation, resulting in a wide array of horticultural plants with valuable therapeutic properties. The use of horticultural food plants as herbal remedies has become an integral part of traditional medicine in this geographical context. The present review aims to highlight the use of horticultural food plants (HFPs) in the context of traditional herbal medicine in the countries of the Mediterranean Basin and explore their traditional uses and therapeutic properties. A comprehensive ethnobotanical literature search was conducted on the food plants used as herbal medicine in the Mediterranean region using existing online scientific databases. Based on the literature review, 64 taxa used as medicinal plants by traditional users in the Mediterranean Basin were documented. Overall, horticultural plants are used in Mediterranean countries to treat a total of 573 ailments. Italy has the highest number of use reports (998), followed by Morocco (281) and Spain (193). Apiaceae (11 taxa), Cucurbitaceae (9 taxa), and Brassicaceae (8 taxa) are the most frequently cited families. The genus Allium is the most abundant in species (5). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Environmental & Social Management Journal / Revista de Gestão Social e Ambiental is the property of Environmental & Social Management Journal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The Hakka people, a branch of the Han nationality with their own language, culture, and customs, are one of the largest immigrant groups worldwide, primarily distributed in southern China. Bobai, a county with the largest Hakka population globally, has a thriving weaving industry that is one of the local pillar industries. This study aimed to systematically analyze the plant source, product function, and development model of Bobai Hakka weaving. The study recorded 33 plant species for weaving, which belonged to 17 families and 27 genera. The weaving plants were mainly bamboo, rattan, grass, and wood, with herbs being the most commonly used (15 species, 45.5%). Most weaving plants were obtained locally (16 species, 41.0%) and from wild sources (13 species, 33.3%). Stems were the most commonly used plant parts (66.7%) in local weaving, followed by leaf sheaths, inflorescence stems, leaves, stem bark, leaf rachis, and female bracts. Additionally, wastes from crops such as wheat, rice, bananas, and corn, as well as invasive water hyacinths, were widely used as weaving materials by the local Hakka people. The products' functions ranged from household appliances, cultural and entertainment products, furniture, to production tools, reflecting a range of conventional cultural connotations. The study found that the Bobai Hakka weaving industry had integrated modern elements and additional use value to expand its market appeal. With the participation of the government, enterprises, and farmers, the Bobai weaving industry has formed a development model of "intangible cultural heritage + industry + poverty alleviation," which has become a successful case of poverty alleviation and rural revitalization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Boletín Latinoamericano y del Caribe de Plantas Medicinales y Aromáticas is the property of Universidad de Santiago de Chile and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Boletín Latinoamericano y del Caribe de Plantas Medicinales y Aromáticas is the property of Universidad de Santiago de Chile and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: The traditional knowledge in southern Yemen is rich in wild medicinal and food plants, which has been documented in our previous studies. In addition, other significant and general traditional usage for the daily livelihood requirements of local people (beyond medicinal and food plant uses) has not been studied before and needs urgent documentation. Methods: Ethnobotanical data on of wild plants used by local people in southern Yemen were collected by oral questionnaire interviews. Most informants (n = 1020) were local elderly from 15 different localities in southern Yemen. The local names and non-medicinal and non-food uses of plants were identified and analyzed. Results: The ethnobotanical data resulted various traditional uses of 73 plant species distributed in 28 families. The most represented families were Fabaceae, Asteraceae and Malvaceae. The most growth forms were trees and shrubs. Seven main and common categories of traditional uses were determined and classified as handicraft, health aids, livestock husbandry and beekeeping, economic and commercial plant products, agriculture tools, construction timber and fuel. The most cited species were identified for Ziziphus spina-christi, Vachellia tortilis, Vachellia nilotica, Anisotes trisulcus, Dracaena hanningtonii (Sansevieria ehrenbergii) and Aerva javanica, which have multi-purpose values of traditional usage. Nine major traditional uses of local wild plants were recorded: handicraft, agriculture tools, products aid general health, economic products, construction timber, livestock husbandry, bee keeping, fuel and ornamental. Conclusions: Despite the challenges on local traditional knowledge of wild plants, it still requested vital to many usages of traditional life and still have an economic value and heritage required of develop the daily livelihood level of the local people especially in rural areas. This includes the traditional uses of wild plants in handicraft skills, tools of agriculture, constructions. The importance of the continuity of traditional industries and their transmission to generations lies in the local population's reliance on local natural resources without relying on external resources in situations such as wars. This is the first study that contributes to documenting and analyzing the indigenous knowledge on traditional general usage of wild plants in southern Yemen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study explores the medicinal plant knowledge of the Baiku Yao, a unique ethnic group in China. Despite existing research on their ethnobotanical practices, a comprehensive understanding of their medicinal flora remains lacking. This study aims to document and analyze the species distribution, utilization, and traditional knowledge of medicinal plants used by Baiku Yao. Methods: Ethnobotanical surveys were conducted in various Baiku Yao villages across different seasons from 2019 to 2023. Informants were interviewed, and plant specimens were collected and identified. Statistical analyses, including the Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), were employed to understand plant importance in Baiku Yao culture. Results: In an ethnobotanical survey conducted in the Baiku Yao region, 434 medicinal plant species were documented, highlighting significant ethnobotanical diversity and a deep cultural integration of traditional medicinal practices. The study revealed pronounced geographical variations in plant knowledge among villages, with a notable reliance on wild plants, as 85.48% were sourced from the wild, reflecting unique local ethnobotanical knowledge. Predominantly herbs and shrubs were used due to their accessibility and abundance in the local environment. High Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) values for certain species underscored their importance for local health needs and additional economic value. The utilization of various plant parts, particularly whole plants, roots, and leaves, indicates a holistic approach to medicinal applications, adapted to combat prevalent health issues such as skin and infectious diseases. The study also uncovered the Baiku Yao's cultural practices for countering "Gu" afflictions—a range of pathogenic conditions—with 18 diverse antidote plants used for skin, digestive, and musculoskeletal disorders. The study underscores the imperative of preserving this rich medicinal heritage through innovative models that engage youth and leverage new media, ensuring the inheritance and evolution of Baiku Yao's traditional knowledge. Conclusions: Baiku Yao's medicinal plant use reflects a deep, culturally ingrained knowledge, closely tied to local ecology. The study highlights the importance of preserving this unique ethnobotanical heritage and suggests interdisciplinary approaches for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, based on ethnobotanical data recorded in Transylvania, the polyphenolic compounds and the permeability of the aerial part's extract of Tanacetum balsamita were investigated. Ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry was applied for the analysis of the extracts. Parallel artificial membrane permeability assay (PAMPA) for the gastrointestinal tract and the blood–brain barrier was conducted. In the ethanolic and aqueous extracts of the species traditionally used for wound, furuncle, and liver disorders, 92 polyphenols were characterized (e.g., flavonoid, hydroxycinnamic acid, catechin, dihydroxybenzoyl, lignan derivatives, and a monoterpene) including 54 compounds identified for the first time in the plant. In the PAMPA tests, eight components were shown to be capable of passive diffusion across the studied membranes. These include apigenin and seven methoxylated flavonoid derivatives. Based on these results, methoxylated flavonoids might promote the pharmacological potential of T. balsamita to be applied in the enhancement of novel remedies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The archaeological record of the Lower Mississippi Valley represents a long history of Indigenous people making wide and variable use of the region's exceptionally rich ecosystems. Often, archaeological interpretations of these interactions focus on subsistence and do not take into consideration non-food uses of plants and animals. Our excavations at two Coles Creek (AD 750–1000) mound centers, Feltus and Smith Creek, yielded curious concentrations of sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua) in addition to the expected suite of plants. We first discuss the archaeological context of sweetgum on these sites, then outline our methods of identifying the plant in archaeological samples. We detail the process of identifying sweetgum both in-field and from flotation and water-screening samples and provide identification criteria that can be used by other analysts. Finally, we review what we know about sweetgum use from the broader archaeological, ethnohistoric, and ethnographic records. Drawing these lines of evidence together, we synthesize pre – and post-colonial ethnobotany to hypothesize about how and why Coles Creek people used this plant in ceremonial activities taking place at mound centers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A great deal of ethnobotanical knowledge, passed down from generation to generation by oral tradition, is still preserved in the Mediterranean basin. Over the years, efforts have been made to collect this information to avoid losing this heritage. This work is a contribution towards the ethnobotanical knowledge of Calabria (southern Italy) through a survey on the Tyrrhenian side of the Aspromonte Massif in the metropolitan city of Reggio Calabria, an area that has been little studied from the ethnobotanical point of view. For this purpose, several semi-structured interviews were conducted with informants on the current and past use of spontaneous and cultivated plants in this study area; the data were collected in a Microsoft Excel® spreadsheet and then processed. Fifty-nine people were interviewed. Results show that the most frequently used plant family is Asteraceae, the most mentioned taxon is Anethum piperitum (22 interviews), and the most recurrent use is use is culinary, for the preparation of side-dishes. This work highlights the presence of cultures that have used plants in the past and represents a further contribution to the ethnobotanical knowledge of this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The trend in the cosmetics industry in Indonesia has been upward since 2019. There is currently a problem with consumer knowledge of cosmetics made with natural ingredients. Through bioprospecting studies, the Bogor Botanical Gardens is a key player in identifying Indonesia's potential plants, one of which is a source of raw materials for cosmetics. With a focus on skincare, this study aims to inform readers about the plant collections in the Bogor Botanical Gardens that have potential cosmetic applications. The Bogor Botanical Gardens' plant collections were directly observed for this study's secondary data, which were gathered through literature reviews. The study identified 26 plant species from 20 families -- primarily Zingiberaceae, Arecaceae, and Fabaceae -- as having potential uses in cosmetics, especially skincare products. These plants are mostly trees, at least 50% of them. The most frequently used plant parts were leaves (30.77%), followed by fruits (11.54%), rhizomes (11.54%), seeds (11.54%), leaf sheaths (7.69%), and other parts (3.85%). The conservation status of 13 out of the 26 species is known; of these, nine are considered to be of least concern, four have insufficient data, and one is on the verge of extinction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Aspalathus linearis (commonly known as rooibos) is endemic to the Cape Floristic Region of South Africa and is a popular herbal drink and skin phytotherapeutic ingredient, with health benefits derived primarily from its unique phenolic content. Several, seemingly habitat-specific ecotypes from the Cederberg (Western Cape) and Northern Cape have morphological, ecological, genetic and biochemical differences. Objectives and methods: Despite the commercial popularity of the cultivated variety, the uncultivated ecotypes are largely understudied. To address gaps in knowledge about the biochemical constituency, ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of fifteen populations was performed, enabling high-throughput metabolomic fingerprinting of 50% (v/v) methanolic extracts. Antioxidant screening of selected populations was performed via three assays and antimicrobial activity on two microbial species was assessed. The metabolomic results were corroborated with total phenolic and flavonoid screening of the extracts. Results and discussion: Site-specific chemical lineages of rooibos ecotypes were confirmed via multivariate data analyses. Important features identified via PLS-DA disclosed higher relative abundances of certain tentative metabolites (e.g., rutin, aspalathin and apiin) present in the Dobbelaarskop, Blomfontein, Welbedacht and Eselbank sites, in comparison to other locations. Several unknown novel metabolites (e.g., m/z 155.0369, 231.0513, 443.1197, 695.2883) are responsible for metabolomic separation of the populations, four of which showed higher amounts of key metabolites and were thus selected for bioactivity analysis. The Welbedacht and Eselbank site 2 populations consistently displayed higher antioxidant activities, with 2,2-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) radical scavenging activities of 679.894 ± 3.427 µmol Trolox/g dry matter and 635.066 ± 5.140 µmol Trolox/g dry matter, respectively, in correlation with a high number of phenolic and flavonoid compounds. The contribution of the individual metabolites to the pharmacological effectiveness of rooibos remains unknown and as such, further structural elucidation and phytopharmacological testing is thus urgently needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sedum telephium is a succulent plant used in traditional medicine, particularly in Italy, for its efficacy in treating localized inflammation such as burns, warts, and wounds. Fresh leaves or freshly obtained derivatives are directly applied to the injuries for these purposes. However, challenges such as the lack of microbiologically controlled materials and product standardization prompted the exploration of more controlled biotechnological alternatives, utilizing in vitro plant cell cultures of S. telephium. In the present study, we used HPLC-DAD analysis to reveal a characteristic flavonol profile in juices from in vivo leaves and in vitro materials mainly characterized by several kaempferol and quercetin derivatives. The leaf juice exhibited the highest content in total flavonol and kaempferol derivatives, whereas juice from callus grown in medium with hormones and callus suspensions showed elevated levels of quercetin derivatives. The in vitro anti-inflammatory and wound-healing assays evidenced the great potential of callus and suspension cultures in dampening inflammation and fostering wound closure, suggesting quercetin may have a pivotal role in biological activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores and documents the traditional medicinal uses of weed flora commonly found in field crops (rice, vegetables, wheat, and maize) in District Dir Upper, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Many medicinal plants grow wild or as weeds worldwide, including in Pakistan. The Dir Upper district boasts a diverse weed flora with significant medicinal value for daily use. Surveys using semi-structured open-ended questionnaires were carried out in distant villages of the Larjam subdivisions, specifically interviewing 120 local respondents (85 males, including herbalists and pansiris, and 35 women) regarding the naturally occurring medicinal weeds in the area. During the field survey, traditional knowledge and the ethnobotanical relevance of seasonal weeds were collected. A total of 65 species from 24 families were recorded across the four different seasons (spring, summer, autumn, and winter) in 2021--2023, including 54 angiosperms, 10 tracheophytes, and one pteridophyte. The dominant family was Poaceae (25%), followed by Asteraceae (15%) and Asclepiadaceae (2%). Given the essential roles that these weed species play in medicine, future research on the use and conservation of indigenous weed flora is highly recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

All over the world, wild edible plants are an essential source of chemical components that justify their use in folk medicine. The aim of this review is to document and summarize the knowledge of ten wild plants analyzed in a previous study for their ethnomedical significance. Achillea millefolium, Borago officinalis, Foeniculum vulgare, Gentiana lutea, Juniperus communis, Laurus nobilis, Malva sylvestris, Satureja montana, Silybum marianum and Urtica dioica were the subjects of our study. They are commonly found in the central Italian Apennines and the Mediterranean basin. Phytochemicals contained in wild plants, such as phenols, polyphenols, flavonoids, condensed tannins, carotenoids, etc., are receiving increasing attention, as they exert a wide range of biological activities with resulting benefits for human health. Based on the 353 studies we reviewed, we focused our study on the following: (a) the ethnobotanical practices and bioactive phytochemicals; (b) the composition of polyphenols and their role as antioxidants; (c) the methodologies commonly used to assess antioxidant activity; (d) the most advanced spectroscopic and spectrometric techniques used to visualize and characterize all components (metabolomic fingerprinting). The potential of pure compounds and extracts to be used as nutraceuticals has also been highlighted through a supposed mechanism of action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kodo millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum L.) is an underutilized crop that encompasses nutritional benefits and climate resilience, making it a viable option for future crop development with nutraceutical properties. The cultivation of this crop has ancient roots, where it was revered for its ability to thrive in times of famine and was a vital companion crop to rice. Dishes made with Kodo millet are highly palatable and can be easily integrated into mainstream rice-based dishes. Among all cereals, Kodo millet is distinguished by its gluten-free composition, high phosphorus content, and significant antioxidant potential, which contributes to a diet that may reduce cardiovascular disease risk. Often grown in rainfed zones by marginal farmers, Kodo millet is valued for its grain and fodder. This less demanding crop can tolerate both biotic and abiotic stress, allowing it to thrive in soils with low organic matter and with minimal inputs, making it an ideal dual-purpose crop for rainfed areas. Despite its nutritional and agricultural benefits, Kodo millet's popularity is hindered by challenges such as low yield, market demand, lodging at harvest, and poor dehulling recovery, which necessitate the development of high-yielding varieties through the latest breeding advancements. Systematic investment and concerted breeding efforts are essential to harness the full potential of this nutrient-dense crop. The absence of whole genome sequence for Kodo millet poses a barrier to uncovering novel genetic traits. Consequently, there is an imperative to establish a millet-based value chain that elevates these underutilized crops, shaping smart cropping patterns and enhancing nutritional profiles for sustainable diets. Accordingly, this review highlights the significance of Kodo millet and the impact of breeding to establish it as a smart food choice for the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a special issue of the journal "Economic Botany" titled "Ethnobotany for the Future: Theory, Methods, and Social Engagement." The issue is guest edited by Prof. Ulysses Paulino Albuquerque from the Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Brazil. The special issue features twelve papers that explore new perspectives and solutions in the fields of ethnobotany and ethnobiology. The papers cover a range of topics, including the impact of wild plants in post-conflict landscapes, the integration of queer theory into ethnobotany, the use of citizen science in botanical gardens, the application of the ecosymbiotic complementarity theory in social-ecological systems, the concept of cultural keystone species, and the role of Brazilian ethnobotany literature in the global sustainability debate. The papers contribute to the ongoing development of ethnobotany as a discipline and offer promising avenues for future research and collaboration. [Extracted from the article]

The Nineveh Plain region of Northern Iraq is a site of ecological and cultural diversity. Between 2014 and 2017, the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), also known as Daesh, severely disrupted the region, resulting in community displacement, particularly for members of ethnic minority groups. This article highlights an ongoing multinational, multidisciplinary collaboration between botanists, ecologists, mental and public health specialists, sociologists, and anthropologists to foster cultural and ecological restoration among the Christian, Yezidi, Shabak, Turkman, and Kaka'i minority groups of the Plains. Members of these groups identified wild plant collection as an important cultural and economic practice and expressed a shared concern over the decreased access to wild plant resources. Researchers are partnering with local communities using engaged, decolonial methodologies to bring communities together around this shared interest in wild plants. Project activities include producing videos highlighting local plant knowledge, hosting workshops on using wild plants for art and textile design, offering trainings on herbal medicine, collecting recipes for a wild plant cookbook, and increasing awareness of the sustainable use of wild plants. Through collaborative knowledge production, this partnership aims to bring diverse stakeholders together around an interest in wild plants to promote cultural understanding and exchange. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Citizen science is a tool that makes it possible to design large-scale studies while developing dialogues among people. It has developed in many fields, such as ecology, biodiversity studies, climatology, and sociology. Done properly, it can help produce a large amount of data that can later be analyzed using statistical tools. Can ethnobotany also benefit from such investigations? Based on three citizen science projects carried out in a botanical garden, this paper explores the possibility of developing ethnobotanical citizen science research in a context other than that of fieldwork. Examples include a literacy laboratory within a multicultural exhibit (2018), a survey on the uses of medicinal plants during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic (2021), and a call for testimonials about and recipes for medicinal plants from around the world (2020–2023). This approach, enriched by the citizens themselves, is in keeping with the aspirations of the ethnobiologists who have called for a paradigm shift following the COVID-19 pandemic, perceived as a tipping point. Citizen science practices implemented in a museum institution, such as a botanical garden, thus make it possible to carry out multicultural surveys and discuss results with people in an open dialogue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a field of study, ethnobotany is known for its interdisciplinary nature, drawing from a range of subjects, such as botany, anthropology, chemistry, ecology, and others. Though ethnobotany is broad and diverse, it does—on occasion—fall short when examining specific theoretical orientations and their applications within the discipline. In addition to this, there are many other forms of theoretical orientation—especially from the social sciences—that may hold great value for ethnobotany; some of these hold extra promise as a result of their inherent connection to themes of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) that have become increasingly acknowledged for their importance in academia in recent years. One such theoretical orientation is queer theory. The following paper provides a brief historical and epistemological overview of queer theory, and proposes a need for the development and practice of queer ethnobotany. Not only does queer theory stand to make ethnobotany a more diverse and accepting field, but it also has the potential to contribute to expanding upon the theoretical toolkit ethnobotanists may draw on in the classroom, the field, and beyond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept of "ecological keystone species" underscores the central role certain species play in ecosystem dynamics. Analogously, "cultural keystone species" are essential in organizing social-ecological systems, reflecting the critical relationship between humans and their environment. While various indicators have been proposed for identifying cultural keystone species, recent studies have questioned their efficacy. Challenges persist in defining clear criteria for identifying these species, distinguishing them from other culturally and economically important species, and incorporating the emic perspectives of local communities. To address these challenges, we propose the cultural keystone species syndrome (CKSS) approach, which focuses on species identified as unique from an emic perspective. We conducted a case study in the Araripe-Apodi Environmental Protection Area in northeastern Brazil, where two communities, Horizonte and Sítio Macaúba, rely heavily on plant extraction for livelihoods. Using the free listing technique, we identified species considered culturally important by local residents. Our findings reveal an overlap between species identified as having the cultural keystone species syndrome and those considered only culturally significant, challenging the notion of exclusive cultural keystone species. We discuss the implications of our findings for biocultural conservation and highlight the need for a more nuanced understanding of cultural keystone species and their role in shaping social-ecological systems dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]