The Egyptians' Use of Spices from “Attarin Market” In Folk Medicine, a Survey Study

Abstract

Economic botanists investigate the relationship between humans and plants to understand how plants are used in culture. A large proportion of the general population in developing countries still uses traditional folk medicines derived from plant sources. Egypt is famous of the folkloric medicine plants. The methods of cure and herbal prescriptions are generally not written down. These skills are passed from one generation to the other through apprenticeship and once forgotten may not be revived again. This research is the first one aims to focus on the traditional uses of some herbs and spices which have medicinal property and be used as a functional food for humans in Greater Cairo area, Egypt for thousands of years. Ethnobotanical visits were done in different Attarin Markets “herbs and spices shops” of Cairo province. Various data (local name, locations, medical uses, parts of plant used… etc) concerning 30 species, belong to 30 genera and 15 families, were recorded. The information was gathered using a questionnaire distributed through the ethno-botanical interviews. The results showed the most represented families were Apiaceae and Lamiaceae. The stomach was the most recorded organ can be treated traditionally by spices, in addition, 80% of recorded uses of spices have been applied to treat diseases traditionally by oral intake. Results were discussed and recommendations like, sufficient studies are needed and wide awareness programs for people are suggested.