Etude Ethnobotanique d’une Plante Médicinale Urtica urens (L’ortie) dans la Wilaya de Bou-Saâda et son Activité Antibactérienne

Abstract

This dissertation explores the ethnobotanical use and antibacterial activity of the medicinal plant Urtica urens (burning nettle) from Bou-Saâda region of Algeria. The study is divided into two main parts: an ethnobotanical survey of the local population and a scientific assessment of the plant's antibacterial properties. The ethnobotanical survey revealed valuable traditional knowledge about the use of Urtica urens to treat various illnesses. Local people mainly use the plant for its anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties. The study identified the parts of the plant most commonly used, the methods of preparation and the illnesses treated. The antibacterial activity of Urtica urens was assessed in the laboratory. Hexanolic and methanolic extracts of the plant were tested against various bacterial strains, including Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus. The results showed significant inhibitory activity, underlining the potential of Urtica urens as a source of new antibacterial agents. The study concludes that Urtica urens possesses valuable medicinal properties that deserve to be developed and integrated into local health practices. Furthermore, scientific research into this plant could lead to the discovery of new natural medicines, thereby contributing to modern medicine.