Ethnobotanical, ethnopharmacological, socioeconomic and floristic studies of aromatic and medicinal plants from Boulemane region in Morocco

These studies were conducted to uncover the potential and traditional knowledge of aromatic and medicinal plants (AMP) in the Boulemane province of the Middle Atlas, an area previously unexplored. The objectives were to inventory and identify AMP used in the region’s traditional medicine, gather extensive information from locals and professionals on their usage and exploitation, and identify the most promising species for further studies, to be highlighted in future publications. The floristic study enabled the identification of 71 families out of 155 existing in Morocco, comprising 313 genera and 618 species and subspecies, which represent 11% of the global Moroccan floristic richness. Additionally, 84 taxa from 20 families are endemic with 78% being exclusive to Morocco. The ethnopharmacological study revealed that 88.47% of the informants use AMP for therapeutic purposes in 58.21% of the cases. A catalog of traditional practices was compiled, documenting 79 species across 38 families. Rosemary, sagebrush, pennyroyal, thyme, berber cedar, lavender sage, and clubroot were the most frequently cited species, mainly used to treat stomach and respiratory problems. However, only 17.6% of the population exploits this wealth through the creation of cooperatives and/or associations. This study assessed the role of AMP in fostering sustainable development in the region. The evaluation was based on a series of studies, with particular emphasis on the ethnopharmacological aspect. The latter has facilitated the promotion of awareness of sustainable usage practices and the training of professionals to implement these practices while ensuring the conservation of botanical resources against over-exploitation.