Etude des plantes médicinales utilisées dans la médecine traditionnelle, axée sur la région d'Ain Temouchent, à travers une approche ethnobotanique

Abstract

This ethnobotanical study aimed to document the medicinal plants utilized by the local populace of Ain Temouchent Province, Algeria, for the treatment of common ailments, with a particular focus on digestive disorders. The investigation involved a survey employing 190 questionnaires distributed across two distinct regions within the province. The results revealed the use of 86 plant species, categorized into 36 botanical families. The most prevalent families identified were Lamiaceae (18.60 %), Apiaceae (10.47 %), Asteraceae (9.31 %). Regarding plant utilization, leaves were the most frequently employed plant part, and decoction was the predominant method of preparation. The administered remedies were primarily for oral consumption. The study indicated that women, especially those between 30 and 50 years of age. were the primary users of these traditional remedies. Notably, individuals with a university-level education constituted the largest population. In light of these findings, this study underscores the significant wealth of traditional knowledge concerning medicinal plant use within the Ain Temouchent region. This research not only contributes to the enrichment of the Algerian medicinal flora inventory but also plays a crucial role in the valorization of the local ethnobotanical heritage.