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The Central High Atlas of Morocco harbors a rich diversity of medicinal and aromatic plants, fostered by unique bioclimatic conditions and altitudinal gradients (plain, piedmont, and mountains), which support a varied flora. Many species are rich in bioactive compounds, particularly polyphenols, known for their physiological health benefits. Despite this biodiversity, scientific data on these plants remain limited and fragmented [1,2].
In this study, an ethnopharmacological survey was conducted to identify promising medicinal plants used by local communities, providing a scientific basis for further phytochemical and biological investigations. The survey was carried out in the High Atlas between January and March 2024. A total of 215 informants, including traditional herbalists, healers, and community members, were interviewed. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and focus groups, then analyzed using quantitative ethnobotanical indices such as the Family Importance Value (FIV), Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), Fidelity Level (FL), and Informant Consensus Factor (ICF).
A total of 80 medicinal species belonging to 41 botanical families were recorded, with Lamiaceae and Asteraceae being the most represented, comprising 17 and 7 species, respectively. Most species are used to treat gastrointestinal disorders (e.g., Thymus pallidus, Mentha suaveolens) and respiratory diseases (e.g., Thymus pallidus, Lavandula dentata L., Juniperus phoenicea). Leaves were the most commonly used plant parts, and decoction was the predominant preparation method.
This study highlights the extensive ethnomedicinal knowledge of Central High Atlas communities and underscores its value for future phytochemical and pharmacological research. Moreover, the documentation and valorization of this traditional knowledge contribute to the sustainable development of local communities through the conservation and responsible use of plant biodiversity.
Keywords: Ethnopharmacological survey, Medicinal plants, Phytotherapy, Natural resources, Public health, Biodiversity.
[1] El Alami A, Chait A. Enquête ethnopharmacologique et ethnobotanique sur les plantes médicinales dans le Haut Atlas central du Maroc. Alger J Nat Prod 2017; 4: 427–445.
[2] El Alami A, Farouk L, Chait A. Étude ethnobotanique sur les plantes médicinales spontanées poussant dans le versant nord de l’Atlas d’Azilal (Maroc). Alger J Nat Prod 2016; 5: 271–282.
