Ethiopia is recognized as a significant center of origin for a wide variety of plant species, particularly those with medicinal properties. A substantial segment of the population across the nation depends on these therapeutic plants for their primary healthcare needs. Many communities, both rural and urban, engage in traditional medicine practices, passing down their knowledge orally from one generation to the next. Consequently, this study was undertaken to record the traditional medicinal plants and the related indigenous knowledge in the Yeki district of Southwest Ethiopia. Between March 2024 and August 2024, semi-structured interviews, in-person meetings, group discussions, and escorted field trips were used to gather quantitative ethnobotanical data. A total of 132 informants 100 men and 32 women were interviewed in order to gather ethnobotanical data. The informant consensus factor (ICF), fidelity level (FL), plant part value, preference ranking, and direct matrix ranking were among the quantitative techniques that were employed. Furthermore, the study used a variety of statistical tests, such as independent t-tests, one-way ANOVA, correlation, and regression with R software version 4.3.2, to compare the ethnobotanical knowledge of various informant groups. A total of 98 species of traditional medicinal plants from 81 genera and 45 plant families were identified in the current study. The Asteraceae (11 species) were the largest family used by local peoples, followed by Solanaceae (8 species). The most commonly used plant parts were leaves and roots, and the primary technique for making remedies was crushing. The respiratory systems disease categories had the second highest consensus score (ICF: 0.90), after the dermal disease category (ICF: 0.91). The number of medicinal plants reported by respondents across gender, age groups, educational level, and informant’s type varied significantly (P < 0.05). Various medicinal species can be found in the area’s vegetation, but they are threatened by deforestation, agricultural extension, firewood, modernization, IAS, charcoal production, and material culture. The results highlight the extensive variety of medicinal plants and the accompanying traditional knowledge present in the Guraferda district. The elevated ethnobotanical indices justify the need for additional phytochemical and pharmacological research. It is advisable to implement integrated conservation strategies to tackle the challenges confronting these precious plant resources.

The field of traditional medicine encompasses a wide range of knowledge, skills, and practices that are deeply rooted in the theories, beliefs, and experiences of different cultures. The research aimed to identify traditional medicinal plants used in Guraferda District and assess the threats they face. A total of 96 individuals, 80 males and 16 females, were interviewed to gather ethnobotanical data. Statistical tests like independent t tests, ANOVA, correlation, and regression were conducted using R software version 4.3.2 to compare informant groups. The study found 81 medicinal plant species in the district from 71 genera and 38 families, with Asteraceae and Solanaceae families having the most species. Leaves were the most commonly used plant part for medicine. Significant differences in plant knowledge were observed across genders, age groups, education levels, and experiences. The highest ICF value was for Dermal and Cutaneous ailments, and Cissampelos mucronata A. Rich and Bidens pilosa L. had the highest fidelity levels. The study highlighted the importance of traditional medicinal plants in treating ailments but noted threats like overharvesting, habitat destruction, and climate change. Conservation efforts and sustainable harvesting practices are crucial to ensure the availability of these plants for future generations. Further research is needed to explore their potential for modern medicine and develop sustainable use strategies.

Throughout history, plant resources have played a crucial role in human society. After addressing fundamental needs such as food and shelter, humans have sought out plants for medicinal purposes to alleviate various health issues. The utilization of plant resources for diverse applications, including traditional herbal medicine, is integral to the rich cultural heritage and lifestyle of the communities in southwest Ethiopia. However, despite the existence of numerous indigenous traditional medicinal plants, the ethnobotanical knowledge surrounding these resources in the Bita district remains largely unexplored. Consequently, this study aimed to document and analyze the traditional medicinal plants, along with the associated customs and knowledge utilized by the local population. Between June 2024 and Pagume (the 13th month unique to Ethiopia) of the same year, a combination of semistructured interviews, in-person meetings, group discussions, and guided field trips was employed to collect quantitative ethnobotanical data. A total of 136 informants, comprising 104 men and 32 women, participated in the interviews to provide insights into ethnobotanical practices. The research utilized several quantitative methodologies, including the informant consensus factor (ICF), fidelity level (FL), plant part value, preference ranking, and direct matrix ranking. Additionally, various statistical analyses were conducted, including independent t tests, one-way ANOVA, correlation, and regression, utilizing R to assess and compare the ethnobotanical knowledge across different groups of informants. A total of 122 species of traditional medicinal plants, belonging to 104 genera and 53 different plant families, were documented in this study. The Asteraceae family was the most frequently cited, comprising 12 species, making it the largest family identified. This was followed by Lamiaceae with eight species, Solanaceae with eight species, Rubiaceae with seven species, Euphorbiaceae with six species, Cucurbitaceae with five species, and Fabiaceae with four species. The plant parts most commonly utilized in traditional remedies were leaves and roots, with the predominant method of preparation being crushing. Notably, the average number of medicinal plants reported by participants varied significantly across different demographics, including gender, age groups, educational levels, and experience (P < 0.05). The study area boasts a diverse range of potential medicinal plants and the associated indigenous knowledge. To mitigate the increasing anthropogenic threats and ensure the preservation of these plants and their related knowledge, it is crucial to implement effective conservation strategies and responsible usage. Furthermore, the medicinal properties of these plants should be validated through scientific experimentation to effectively combine local knowledge with modern medicine.

Wild and semi-wild edible plants (WSWEPs) play a critical role in sustaining rural livelihoods by contributing to food security, nutrition, traditional medicine, and cultural identity. In Yeki District, Sheka Zone, Southwest Ethiopia Region, Ethiopia, where diverse ethnic groups coexist, these plants remain integral to local diets and health practices. However, factors such as agricultural expansion and urbanization threaten their availability, highlighting the need for comprehensive ethnobotanical documentation and sustainable management. This study employed a cross-sectional ethnobotanical survey conducted from November 2023 to August 2024 across five purposively selected kebeles. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, market surveys, and guided field walks involving 175 informants. Plant specimens were collected, identified, and documented following standard taxonomic references. Quantitative analyses, including preference ranking, direct matrix ranking, and statistical tests (t-tests, ANOVA), were applied to assess knowledge variations and threats. A total of 74 WSWEP species belonging to 34 families were identified, with herbs being the dominant growth form and fruits the most frequently used edible parts. Significant knowledge differences were observed based on gender, literacy, ethnicity, and informant experience. Agricultural expansion and urbanization were identified as the primary threats. Consumption modes varied, with 46% eaten raw and others (54%) prepared by boiling or cooking. Some plants required careful processing due to mild adverse effects reported during consumption. WSWEPs in Yeki district are vital for nutrition, health, cultural heritage, and environmental sustainability. Conservation efforts, community education, and policy integration are essential to safeguard these resources. Further research into their nutritional and pharmacological potential could enhance their sustainable use and value.

Background: Wild edible plants (WEPs) are vital for food security, nutrition, and cultural identity, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. In Korahe Zone, Eastern Ethiopia, Somali communities rely heavily on natural vegetation, yet ethnobotanical documentation of WEPs remains limited. This study aimed to investigate the diversity, utilization, knowledge patterns, and conservation status of WEPs, with implications for food security and health. Methods: Ethnobotanical data were collected from 120 purposively selected informants across five study sites using semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and guided field walks. Species were also screened against the IUCN Red List to identify threatened and vulnerable wild edible plants, providing insights into their conservation status and informing sustainable management strategies. Quantitative indices, including the Botanical Ethnoknowledge Index (BEI), Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), Informant Consensus Factor (ICF), and Jaccard Similarity Index (JSI), were applied. Preference ranking, direct matrix ranking, and priority ranking were used to assess species use, multifunctionality, and perceived threats. Statistical analyses ( t tests, ANOVA, and Pearson correlation) were conducted to examine variations in ethnobotanical knowledge across gender, age, literacy, and experience. Results: A total of 57 WEP species across 22 families were documented, with shrubs and trees dominating. Fruits were the most commonly consumed part, while roots, tubers, leaves, stems, and resins were used during food scarcity. Knowledge varied significantly by age, gender, literacy, and experience, with older, male, and key informants exhibiting greater familiarity. Cordeauxia edulis Hemsl., Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Delile, Amaranthus dubius Mart. ex Thell., and Moringa stenopetala (Baker f.) Cufod . were highly preferred and multipurpose. Overharvesting, habitat loss, climate variability, grazing, and invasive species were major threats. Three species were identified as threatened either critically endangered or vulnerable, highlighting the urgent need for their conservation and sustainable management. Conclusions: WEPs are crucial for local nutrition, food security, and cultural heritage. Integrating indigenous knowledge with in-situ and ex-situ conservation strategies and promoting sustainable use and cultivation of high-value species is essential to safeguard these resources for future generations.

Background: Wild edible plants (WEPs) play a vital role in ensuring food security, enhancing nutrition, and preserving cultural heritage, particularly in dryland ecosystems. In Eastern Ethiopia, the Karamara forest patches host a rich diversity of WEPs; however, comprehensive ethnobotanical documentation remains scarce. This study aimed to document the diversity, utilization patterns, seasonal availability, and indigenous knowledge of WEPs, as well as to assess associated threats and conservation practices. Methods: A cross-sectional ethnobotanical survey was conducted from February 2023 to January 2024 involving 64 informants selected through purposive and snowball sampling techniques. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, market surveys, and guided field walks. Voucher specimens were collected and identified using the Flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea and verified with digital plant databases such as the International Plant Names Index (IPNI) and Plants of the World Online (POWO). Quantitative analyses included Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), Preference and Direct Matrix Ranking. Statistical analyses (t-tests, ANOVA, and Pearson correlation) were used to examine variations in ethnobotanical knowledge across gender, age, literacy, and experience. Results: A total of 42 WEP species, belonging to 32 genera and 24 families, were documented, with shrubs (50%) and trees (33.3%) as the dominant growth forms. Fruits (69%) and leaves (14%) were the most commonly consumed parts. Amaranthus caudatus L., Ficus sycomorus L., and Ziziphus mucronata Willd. were the most preferred species. Ethnobotanical knowledge showed significant variation among informant groups (P < 0.05). Seasonal availability, collection methods, and marketability patterns reflected local adaptive strategies. Major threats identified included firewood collection, charcoal production, overgrazing, and drought. Community-based management and integration of WEPs into home gardens were recognized as promising conservation approaches. Conclusion: WEPs in the Karamara forest patches play a vital role in supporting dietary diversity, livelihoods, and cultural identity. Sustainable management, participatory conservation, and systematic documentation of indigenous knowledge are essential for safeguarding both biodiversity and food security in the region. Future studies should prioritize investigating the nutritional composition, phytochemical properties, and pharmacological potential of WEPs to ensure their safe utilization and explore broader applications.