Diversity and ethnobotanical value of Syrian Apiaceae: Integrating taxonomic insights with food, medicinal, and agrobiodiversity perspectives

Abstract

The Apiaceae family is distinguished by remarkable taxonomic diversity and chemical richness, making it a key component of global plant biodiversity. Syria represents an important center of Apiaceae diversity, encompassing numerous endemic and underutilized species of high ecological and ethnobotanical significance. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of wild and cultivated Syrian Apiaceae species, emphasizing their distribution, taxonomic diversity, traditional uses in food and medicine, and conservation priorities. A systematic review of 145 published sources was conducted using international databases (Google Scholar, PubMed, and Web of Science). Data on species nomenclature, plant parts used, preparation methods, ethnobotanical applications, and geographic distribution were compiled following the Plants of the World Online classification. Statistical analyses (HCA/UPGMA) using SPSS identified patterns of ethnobotanical similarity among species based on documented medicinal and dietary use categories. In total, 56 Apiaceae species were identified across 42 genera, 91% of which belong to the subfamily Apioideae. Wild medicinal plants constituted 81% of the recorded taxa; however, only 16 species were actively used for medicinal or culinary purposes, while 22 remained unexploited. Cultivated species represented 13%, and introduced taxa 7%. Leaves and aerial parts (21%), seeds (20%), and roots (18%) were the most frequently used organs, primarily in decoctions and infusions. Seven species were regionally endemic, and three Ferula hermonis, Ferulago cassia, and Johrenia dichotoma were identified as high-priority taxa for conservation. This review highlights the exceptional diversity of Syrian Apiaceae and recommends enhancing the cultivation, domestication, and sustainable use of medicinal and wild taxa for their nutritional value and potential ethnomedicinal applications.