Ethnobotanical features of Ziziphora L. (Lamiaceae) taxa in Turkey

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to reveal the ethnobotanical features of taxa belonging to the genus Ziziphora represented with 5 species (9 taxa) in Turkish Flora. The study was carried out in the localities in the Marmara, Aegean, Mediterranean, Black Sea, Central Anatolia, Southern and Eastern Anatolian regions where 4 species (5 taxa) of Ziziphora genus spread. Local names and ethnobotanical uses of taxa were determined by making face-to-face interviews with the local people in these regions. In addition, based on the data in the literature are presented in the ethnobotanical study made in Turkey. In the study, it has been observed that Z. persica has very rare use among the local people as only spice. Also endemic Z. taurica subsp. cleonioides has been demonstrated that is used only in certain regions (Aegean). The use ethnobotanical aspects of Z. capitata, Z. clinopodioides, Z. tenuior and Z. taurica subsp. taurica in has been found in different geographical regions in Turkey. As a result; when Ziziphora taxa are evaluated ethnobotanically; It has been determined that it is used among the people as food (spice), beverage (pleasure tea) and medicinal plants.