article · Ethnobotany Research and Applications
Background: The Moroccan Saharan flora is a remarkable botanical heritage, distinguished by its exceptional adaptation to extreme desert conditions and its importance in traditional medicine. The present study aims to valorize the ethnopharmacological potential of Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire, commonly known as “agaaya,” an emblematic species of the Moroccan Sahara, using a qualitative and quantitative ethnobotanical approach. Methods: Ethnobotanical investigations were conducted among 56 local traditional medicine practitioners in the Rissani circle, Errachidia Province, Morocco, including herbalists and healers. Interviews were conducted using semi-structured questionnaires. Results: The survey revealed that the plant is used in therapy by 57.14% of practitioners, mainly in the treatment of digestive disorders (53.19%), followed by dermatological disorders (29.79%) and endocrine and metabolic disorders (8.51%). The foliage (PPV = 0.610) and stems (PPV = 0.325) are the most recommended parts in powder form (78.13%). These preparations are generally administered orally (81.25%) or applied to the skin (68.75%). Quantitative analyses reveal the major importance of the plant in traditional pharmacopoeia given its significant use value (UV=0.839), its notable relative frequency of citation (RFC=0.5714), and its high cultural importance index (CI=0.839). Its therapeutic use is characterized by a high fidelity level (FL) for the treatment of digestive disorders (FL=78.125%). Conclusions: This study reveals the role of Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire in the traditional therapeutic practices of local communities and highlights its potential as a source of promising bioactive compounds for modern medicine. However, further research is needed to explore its therapeutic applications and safety. Keywords: Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire, Ethnopharmacology, Quantitative ethnobotany, Phytotherapy, Saharan medicinal plant, Rissani Circle, Morocco.
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DOI: 10.32859/era.32.35.1-21
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