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Ethnobotanical insights into the use of medicinal plants for COVID-19 prevention and treatment in Teziutlán, Puebla, México
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DOI：10.1016/j.hermed.2025.101085.png)
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Abstract
En 中文
Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the fragility of healthcare systems worldwide and renewed interest in complementary approaches to disease management. In the mountainous region of Teziutl & aacute;n, Puebla (M & eacute;xico), traditional herbal medicine has played a significant role in community-based responses to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Methods: This cross-sectional ethnobotanical study aimed to document the medicinal plants used for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 symptoms by traditional healers and laypersons with experiential knowledge. Data collection was conducted in two phases: semistructured interviews with 38 individuals, including 13 traditional healers, and structured surveys administered to 221 patients at a local health center. Results: A total of 36 plant-based ingredients were identified, with espinosilla (Loeselia mexicana (Lam) Brandegee), garlic (Allium sativum), ginger (Zingiber officinale), lemon (Citrus limon), cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum), and elderberry (Sambucus spp.) among the most frequently cited. Leaves, bulbs, and rhizomes were the most used plant parts, primarily prepared through infusions and decoctions. While most respondents reported no adverse effects, some highlighted potential gastrointestinal or dermatological reactions. Relative frequency of citation analyses showed high consensus on key species. Conclusion: These findings provide a foundational inventory of species for future pharmacological evaluation and highlight the cultural continuity and relevance of traditional medicine in times of health crises.
Keywords:
COVID-19
Ethnomedicine
Ethnopharmacology
Traditional medicine
Medicinal plants
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1.9
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