An overview of ethnobotanical investigations for primary healthcare: a case study from Mardan district, Pakistan

The present study was conducted in Sudhum valley, Mardan district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. A total of 168 plant species from 56 families were documented, with Asteraceae (15 spp.) and Poaceae (13 spp.) being the most represented. Herbs (102 spp.) and trees (40 spp.) dominated the flora. Leaves (132 spp.) and seeds (69 spp.) were the most used plant parts in traditional medicine, treating 59 ailments, primarily skin diseases (86 spp.) and wounds (65 spp.). The highest fidelity level (94%) was recorded for Asparagus officinalis in treating urinary tract infections, while the highest use value was calculated for Allium cepa (0.86). Jaccard index ranged from 1.24 to 3.12. Seasonal collection was noted, with peak harvesting in April. Twenty-four species (14.28%) were used gastronomically, primarily for their fruits and leaves. Economically valuable species included Allium sativum, Coriandrum sativum, Aloe vera, and Carum carvi. A decline in traditional knowledge, especially among youth, was evident. Preserving and revitalizing this knowledge is crucial for cultural continuity, health care, and addressing local food insecurity through enriched traditional diets.