ÉTUDE DES PLANTES MÉDICINALES DE LA RÉGION DE SÉTIF : PHARMACOTOXICOLOGIE ET USAGE TRADITIONNEL

Abstract

Algeria is a country of contrasts, and one of its regions is Setif, located in northeastern Algeria, is characterized by rich plant biodiversity, supported by climatic and geographical diversity. Numerous medicinal plants have been recorded in this area and have been used for centuries by the local population to treat various ailments. Among the most well-known species are Thymus vulgaris (thyme), Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary), Artemisia herba-alba (white wormwood), Nigella sativa (black seed), Mentha pulegium (pennyroyal mint), and other species from the Aurès region. Ethnobotanical studies have identified around a hundred medicinal plant species, mainly valued for their digestive, antiseptic, antispasmodic, and anti-inflammatory properties. This knowledge is generally passed down orally from one generation to the next. Although medicinal plants are often considered natural and therefore harmless, some may be toxic if misused—whether due to incorrect dosage, improper preparation, or drug interactions. Pharmacotoxicology examines both the therapeutic benefits and potential risks associated with these plants. Key concerns include acute or chronic toxicity in species such as Atropa belladonna and Peganum harmala, which contain powerful alkaloids, the possibility of interactions with conventional pharmaceuticals, the importance of standardizing plant extracts to ensure safety and efficacy, and the necessity of pharmacological and toxicological testing to validate claimed effects and identify possible side effects. The traditional use of medicinal plants in Algeria, especially in Sétif, is based on ancient empirical knowledge rooted in cultural and religious practices. These plants are commonly used in the form of infusions, decoctions, or poultices to treat everyday ailments such as headaches, digestive disorders, colds, and joint pain. In conclusion, the World Health Organization (WHO) acknowledges the value of this heritage in primary healthcare, while stressing the importance of scientific regulation to prevent misuse and health hazards.