Etude Ethnobotanique Et Activites Biologiques Du Chardon marie Dans La Region De Setif

Abstract

Asteraceae family, is widely recognized for its hepatoprotective properties attributed to silymarin, a complex of flavonolignans concentrated in its seeds. Despite its well-established therapeutic value, its traditional uses in the Sétif region (Algeria) remain insufficiently documented. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge and ethnobotanical practices related to Silybum marianum among the population of Sétif, to investigate the antimicrobial activity of its extracts, and to develop an oral dosage form (capsules) for pharmaceutical valorization. An ethnobotanical survey was conducted among 100 participants (February–April 2026) using a structured questionnaire, with statistical analysis performed using IBM SPSS. Ethanolic extraction (70%) of seeds by maceration for 24 hours yielded a dry extract with 4% yield. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated using disk and well diffusion methods against four bacterial strains and two fungal strains. Capsules containing 140 mg of silymarin were formulated using lactose as an excipient. Results showed that 46% of participants were familiar with the plant and 80% used herbal medicine. Seed infusions were the most common preparation, mainly for hepatic disorders. The extract showed activity only against Staphylococcus aureus (10–14 mm), with no effect on other strains. These findings confirm the therapeutic potential of Silybum marianum and highlight the need for further pharmacological investigations.