Ethnobotany of Lao Isan Ethnic Group from Na Chueak District, Maha Sarakham Province, Northeastern Thailand

This study investigates the plant diversity, ethnobotanical knowledge, and traditional uses of plants by the Lao Isan ethnic group in Na Chueak District, Maha Sarakham Province, Thailand. A total of 109 plant species, representing 48 families, were identified, with the Fabaceae, Euphorbiaceae, and Rubiaceae families being the most prevalent. This study highlights the ecological and cultural significance of these plants, many of which serve multiple purposes, including food, medicine, and other purposes. A use value analysis revealed that plants such as Schleichera oleosa (Lour.) Oken, Trigonostemon reidioides (Kurz) Craib, and Vietnamosasa pusilla (A.Chev. & A.Camus) T.Q.Nguyen have high functional importance in local cultural and medical practices. The Relative Frequency of Citation indicated that these species are integral to the community’s plant knowledge, with Trigonostemon reidioides and Vietnamosasa pusilla being especially prominent. Additionally, 62 species were identified for medicinal use, emphasizing the community’s reliance on plant-based remedies. This study also discusses the Informant Consensus Factor and Fidelity Level, which reveal strong agreement on the effectiveness of certain plants, particularly for treating digestive, respiratory, and wound healing conditions. This research contributes to the documentation of ethnobotanical knowledge, emphasizing the importance of traditional plant use for cultural continuity and sustainable resource management.