Investigation of commonly used medicinal plants in the herbal markets of Isfahan, Iran

چکیده مقاله

Herbal markets play an important role in the exchange of medicinal knowledge between people. Studying the plants found in her bal markets is crucial for understanding their role in health, science, economics, and culture. This study aimed to investigate t he contemporary usage of medicinal plants in traditional medicine practices in Isfahan, Iran. An ethnobotanical survey was conducted during different seasons of 2024. Data were collected through interviews with informants in the herbal markets of Isfahan by using a semi–structured questionnaire. Samples were collected and identified by botanical taxonomic method. Data were analyzed using quantitative value indices: RFC, UV, RI, and ICF. By surveying herbal markets and analyzing plant samples, 82 medicinal plants were documented. Most recorded medicinal plant species were used to treat respiratory system problems. This study found that Avishan, Ostokhodos, and Babooneh are the most popular medicinal plants among Isfahan residents. The study also revealed a preference for native plant species and the use of plant parts such as flowers, leaves, and seeds to treat different ailments. The results showed that while the study highlights the significance of medicinal plants in Isfahan’s culture, it also identifies chal lenges such as a lack of standardized regulations, limited customer awareness, and quality control issues. Overall, this research underscores the potential of medicinal plants in Isfahan and emphasizes the need to address existing challenges to ensure the sustainable development of this industry. © The Author(s). Published by University of Isfahn.