An ethnobotanical investigation of medicinal and aromatic plants used in Al Hoceima National Park

In the northern region of Morocco, specifically in the Province of Al Hoceima, the establishment of the Al Hoceima National Park (ANP) serves as a designated protected area. The primary purpose of this park is to promote the conservation, protection, and sustainable development of the diverse natural resources present. The ANP boasts a significant variety of flora, particularly medicinal and aromatic plants (AMP). This research aimed to identify and highlight the AMP the local rural population utilizes. Conducted between August 2020 and March 2021, an ethnobotanical survey engaged herbalists, traditional healers, and rural residents through structured questionnaires. These surveys elicited specific information about the informants and details regarding the plants in use. This survey revealed the identification of 47 taxa based on vernacular names, which were subsequently matched with their scientific names according to available literature. These taxa are distributed among 29 botanical families, with notable prevalence in Lamiaceae, comprising 8 species, followed by Asteraceae, Fabaceae, Rosaceae, and Solanaceae, each with 3 species. The study further indicates that the most utilized parts of these plants are the foliage and leafy stems, with decoctions being the predominant method of preparation for remedies. The investigation into the diseases treated revealed that digestive infections rank highest, followed by respiratory infections. Sociodemographic characteristics analysis indicated a slightly higher usage of medicinal plants by women than men. The insights gleaned from this research offer valuable information for the studied region and contribute to the broader understanding of the national medicinal flora.