Survey on the Anti-Urolithiatic Activity of Medicinal Plants in Setif Province

Abstract

Urolithiasis, or kidney stones, is a painful condition with potential complications. Given the limitations of conventional treatments, many populations turn to traditional medicine, particularly medicinal plants, known for their effectiveness and accessibility. This study aimed to investigate the ethnobotanical survey of plant used in the treatment of urolithiasis in Setif province of Algeria. Data were gathered through questionnaires administered to 150 individuals, including herbalists, traditional healers, and the general public. The survey documented 23 plant species from 15 families, with Lamiaceae and Apiaceae being the most represented (17% each), followed by Caryophyllaceae and Poaceae (9% each). Seeds and aerial plant parts were the most commonly utilized, primarily prepared as herbal teas and extracts. These results highlight the richness of traditional knowledge and pave the way for further pharmacological investigations to scientifically validate the effectiveness of these plants in antiurolithiatic treatments.