Étude ethnobotanique de deux plantes médicinales dans la région de Sétif « cas du marrube blanc et de l’ortie »

Abstract

Medicinal plants are empirically used in the treatment of numerous diseases due to their richness in active compounds responsible for their pharmacological properties. As part of our study focusing on two plants, namely Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica) and White Horehound (Marrubium vulgare), we conducted an ethnobotanical survey using a questionnaire among the local population of the Sétif region, covering various habitats (urban and rural). This survey aimed to collect information on the parts used and their therapeutic applications, to establish the different relationships between sociodemographic characteristics and the use of the two plants, and finally, to evaluate the general population’s level of knowledge in the Sétif province regarding these two plants. The survey was conducted with 130 individuals, the majority of whom were women using White Horehound (61.54%). Leaves were the most commonly used part of both plants (45.67% for White Horehound and 37.40% for Stinging Nettle), mainly in the form of infusion. Concerning the ailments treated, digestive disorders were most often treated with White Horehound (26.83%), while dermatological disorders were treated with Stinging Nettle (28.44%). However, despite their widespread use, both plants have contraindications, especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women (53.66% for White Horehound and 55.96% for Stinging Nettle). They are also not recommended for children, with respective percentages of 11.93% for Stinging Nettle and 3.25% for White Horehound. This could be related to the effect of both plants on the uterus, potentially inducing uterine contractions and increasing the risk of miscarriage. Furthermore, some active compounds contained in these plants may be excreted in breast milk, thereby exposing the infant to potential side effects. In conclusion, we deduce that these two plants hold an important place in the local traditional medicine. The study also confirms that the use of medicinal plants remains widespread in the practices of the population in the Sétif region.