Ethnobotanical characterization of halophytes with medicinal virtues, Case of the Macta wetland flora: North-West Algeria

Abstract

Here is an ethnobotanical study on halophytic plants with medicinal virtues traditionally used by the populations surrounding the Macta wetland (north-western Algeria). An ethnobotanical survey was carried out and the data collected were statistically analyzed by using the R software and 150 questionnaire sheets. The results obtained allowed the identification of 53 plants including 32 halophytic species with medicinal virtues belonging to 28 genera and 17 botanical families. On the basis of the ethnobotanical survey, we identified 43.75% of the species that are used as anti-inflammatory, 28% to treat diuretic disorders, 21.87% to treat uro-genital disorders, 18.75% for their effects on the digestive system, and 15% of the plants which are used against diabetes. Multifactorial analysis reveals a good correspondence between the ethnobotanical aspect of plant species and their therapeutic uses. The results obtained indicate the appearance of five typical use profiles specific to medicinal virtues.