CRCAM

Abstract

In this study, we analyzed traditional ecological knowledge related to the use and management of medicinal plants in family gardens. Using semi-structured interviews with the individuals in charge of 24 gardens, we recorded the importance of the garden and information about the use and management of the species contained. We generated a diagram of each garden, including the location of each plant species, and collected botanical samples. In a spreadsheet, we recorded the species richness, botanical and ethnobotanical information, type of management (encouraged, tolerated, protected, or cultivated) and herbarium accession number. We recorded 34 medicinal plant species. The main ailments addressed were cancer, spiritual cleansing, and digestive and respiratory conditions, which are treated using Pereskia aculeata, Dysphania ambrosioides, and Verbesina crocata among others. The main management types were cultivation (e.g., for Manilkara zapota, Dysphania ambrosioides, and Azadirachta indica Citrus) and encouragement (e.g., for Tournefortia hirsutissima, Verbesina crocata). Plants were obtained by purchase from markets, extraction from natural vegetation, or trading. The placement of plants within the garden was driven by family need, water availability, and configuration of the dwelling. The plants are well managed by the interviewees’ practices, reconfirming both the extent of the interviewees’ traditional ecological knowledge and the plants’ importance in their daily lives. A central benefit is the occupational therapy of tending to the garden. The value assigned to the family garden is also a marker of cultural identity.

Keywords: Traditional ecological knowledge; Medicinal plants; Use; Family gardens