Ferula pisidica is a novel endemic species found in the vicinity of Karaman province of inner Mediterranean Region of Turkey. F. pisidica is morphologically distinct from F. haussknechtii and F. brevipedicellata by habit, sheaths, terminal leaf lobes, and mericarp size as well as by chemotaxonomic differences. The new species is described by morphological, carpological, ecological and phytochemical characteristics. Its relationships with the other related species and proposed conservation status will be reviewed.

Medicinal plants are a special area that needs to be evaluated with different parameters than the general biodiversity threatening due to intense collection pressure. In the study, Turkey's plant diversity, requirements and strategies for sustainable use of Turkish medicinal plants, criticizing and planning of data for the protection of medicinal plants have been evaluated using standards of the Guidelines on the Conservation of Medicinal Plants by WHO, IUCN, WWF and Traffic. In addition, the richness of traditional medicinal plant uses in Turkey, the concept, and usage potentials, administrative requirements for the protection, creation of the in situ and ex situ conservation areas and recommendations for the future have been presented.

Ferulago akpulatii (Apiaceae) is described as a new species endemic to Central Anatolia, Turkey. It is closely related to Ferulago platycarpa and F. pauciradiata, and is easily distinguished by its cauline leaf shape, inflorescence type, and fruit features. The main morphological differences between Ferulago akpulatii and related taxa are discussed, and the diagnostic characteristics, including the anatomical features of fruits, are given in detail. An identification key of Ferulago akpulatii and the morphologically closer species is also provided.

Medicinal plants have been an important therapeutic option for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders since ancient times. Among the wide range of diseases affecting the gastrointestinal tract, the main areas of application for medicinal plants are functional and chronic gastrointestinal disorders, such as functional dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome. Gut microbiota affects human behavior. This is thought to be mediated by hormones involved in brain-gut communication. The role of gut microbiota in the biotransformation of xenobiotics ingested by humans has received significant attention. It is widely acknowledged that gut microbiota can greatly influence the efficacy and toxicity of both synthetic drugs and natural products used to treat various diseases. Recent research has shown that gut microbiota plays a crucial role in maintaining normal brain function. The brain and gut have a bidirectional communication system that has been acknowledged for some time. It is suggested that gut microbiota is an important factor in how the body affects the brain, contributes to healthy homeostasis, and influences the risk of diseases such as anxiety and mood disorders.

Mentha, a genus of plants known throughout history for its use as a spice by humans, has been documented since ancient times. This famous plant has been used both as a spice and for its medicinal properties in the treatment of many ailments. Mentha spp have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antinociceptive, hepatoprotective, antibacterial and antifungal activities. Pharmacological evidence supports the biological activities of these species, which are widely used in traditional medicine.