Ethnobotanical statistics of disease groups treated by medicinal plants used in the province of Taza (northern Morocco)

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a major health challenge in Morocco. This study aimed to provide ethnobotanical information on the use of medicinal plants (MPs) for managing diabetes in the Rabat-Salé-Kenitra region. Methods: A semi-structured questionnaire was used, targeting diabetic patients from healthcare facilities in four cities (Rabat, Salé, Kenitra and Khemisset) of the study region. Quantitative ethnobotanical indices were used, including relative frequency of citation, fidelity level, and informant consensus factor. Chi-square tests were used to analyse socio-demographic data and ethnobotanical survey results. Results: Among 2086 diabetic patients, 49.14% used medicinal plants with 85.17% having type 2 diabetes. A total of 82 MPs from 38 botanical families were recorded, with Olea europaea L., Trigonella foenum-graecum L. and Salvia officinalis L. being the most frequently used plants. Some plants were used specifically for type 1 diabetes or type 2 diabetes. A total of 59 plant mixtures were documented, with one specific mixture mentioned by five patients, all employing identical quantities and preparation methods. Leaves (47.32%) and seeds (30.50%) were the most used plant parts. MPs were mainly taken orally (99.41%) as infusions (47.37%). Conclusions: This study is considered rare since it focuses on the ethnobotanical knowledge held by patients in healthcare facilities. Some plants were newly identified as plants used for diabetes, whether in Morocco or internationally, extending the list of known antidiabetic plants. Further pharmacological research is recommended to validate the antidiabetic properties and the safety of used plants. Keywords: Ethnobotanical survey, Medicinal plants, Mixtures, Ethnobotanical Indices, Diabetes, Rabat-Salé-Kenitra region