Cultural importance and local knowledge of plants in Djebel Morghad (Ksour mountains, Naâma province, Western Algeria)

Abstract

This article aims to assess the socio-cultural importance of plant species among the population of Djebel Morghad (Naama Province). To achieve this objective, ethnobotanical surveys were conducted among 75 informants using a semi-structured questionnaire covering medicinal, edible, and craft plant uses. Data analysis was performed by calculating the Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) and the Cultural Importance Index (Cr%). The results allowed the identification of 30 medicinal plant species belonging to 27 genera and 16 families. The most represented families were Lamiaceae (7 species) and Asteraceae (5 species). Aerial parts (63.34%) were the most frequently used, mainly prepared as decoctions (63.34%) to treat primarily digestive system disorders. The informant consensus factor (ICF) is very high, ranging from 0.97 to 1. Fifteen (15) edible plant species distributed across 10 families and 14 genera were identified. The Lamiaceae family (4 species) and the Asteraceae family (2 species) were the most represented. Three (3) artisanal plant species were recorded. Macrochloa tenacissima (L.) Kunth was the most recognized species with a Cr value of 100%. Juniperus phoenicea L. (98%) and Herniaria hirsuta L. (92%) were the medicinal species with the highest Cr values. Ziziphus lotus (L.) Lam. (100%) was the best-known edible species. The findings of this study constitute an important database for the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage and local knowledge relating to the use of plants by the population of the study area.