Exploring the rich ethnobotanical heritage: Medicinal plant uses in taif city, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Amal Y. Aldhebiani and Sahar M. Alnefaie

Ethnobotany focuses on documenting and preserving traditional knowledge about medicinal plants. This study aimed to document the ethnobotanical use of medicinal plants in Taif City, Saudi Arabia to preserve both the expertise and the plants. A survey conducted from July 2019 to August 2020, involving 384 informants, identified 68 plant species across 33 families. The most cited families were Lamiaceae, Apiaceae, and Asteraceae. The most frequently mentioned plant species was Anise (Pimpinella anisum L.), accounting for 12% of the citations. Gastrointestinal diseases were the most frequently cited ailments, which explains the high use of Anise. The study highlighted the extensive use of plants for medicinal purposes, with 64% of participants using them regularly. Leaves were the most often utilized plant parts, making up 34% of the total, and the most common way of preparation was decoction, accounting for 37% of the cases. The results underscore the importance of conserving ethnobotanical knowledge as a foundation for future medical research and biodiversity conservation.