Study about Indigenous knowledge of plants in Goghar Baft rangelands, Kerman province

Abstract

Indigenous knowledge as a part of any nation’s culture, has been acquired through experience and gradually become a part of the culture and society. The correct use of this knowledge can lead to endogenous development. Ethnobotany, as a sub branch of indigenous knowledge, investigates the way people of a particular ethnic, culture, or region make use of native plants. The aim of this study was to introduce edible and medicinal plants used by Googhar local people. For this purpose, during the summer 2019 and spring 2020, edible and medicinal plants used in the region were identified. The information was collected in the form of free interviews, semi-structured interviews and participatory observation. Interviews were conducted purposefully with local experts. Totally, 36 plant species, with the extensive knowledge of local people, were identified in edible and medicinal uses. This knowledge includes the identification of plants, appropriate time of harvest, organs used, medicinal and edible properties, how to use, as well as plant ecology. The results show that leaves have the most edible and medicinal uses. Edible and medicinal plants in forms of cooked and raw have the most consumption, and the most medicinal use includes treatment of gastrointestinal diseases.

Keywords

• indigenous knowledge
• medicinal plants
• kerman
• goghar baft