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Traditional Algerian medicinal practices for treating gastrointestinal disorders: a systematic literature review
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DOI:10.1016/j.hermed.2026.101086.png)
Abstract
En 中文
Introduction: Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders are among the most common global health concerns, and existing pharmacological treatments are frequently associated with adverse side effects. In Algeria, local populations have long relied on medicinal plants to manage these disorders, reportedly without complications. However, researchers have not yet undertaken any systematic synthesis of this traditional knowledge. Aim: This study presents the first systematic review of medicinal plants traditionally used in Algeria for the management of GI disorders to identify potential candidates for the development of safer, plant-based therapies. Methods: We retrieved relevant ethnobotanical studies published between 2011 and 2024 from major scientific databases, including Science Direct, Springer Link, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The search strategy employed predefined keywords and a selection process following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Results and discussion: After screening and eligibility assessment, 92 studies were included. A total of 420 plant species belonging to 99 botanical families were identified as being traditionally used to treat GI disorders. The most frequently represented families were Asteraceae, Lamiaceae, Fabaceae, and Apiaceae. The review highlights the rich diversity of Algerian flora and the predominant role of these families in traditional digestive care. Conclusion: This review provides a foundational ethnobotanical dataset that may guide future pharmacological and clinical research aimed at validating the efficacy and safety of Algerian medicinal plants for GI health. The findings underline the importance of preserving traditional knowledge while promoting evidence-based development of herbal therapeutics.
Keywords:
Algeria
Ethnobotany
Gastrointestinal disorders
Medicinal plants
Pharmacological potential
Systematic review
Traditional medicine
Journal
J
IF:
1.9
Papers:
45
Citations:
0
Organization
No organization information available
