Factors Influencing the Use of Medicinal Plants in Navarra
Author Information
Author(s): Akerreta Silvia, Cavero Rita Yolanda, López Víctor, Calvo María Isabel
Primary Institution: Universidad de Navarra
Hypothesis
Ecological and cultural factors influence the selection and use of medicinal plants in Navarra.
Conclusion
Ecological and cultural factors significantly affect the choice and naming of medicinal plants in Navarra.
Supporting Evidence
- Climate and substrate are key ecological factors influencing plant selection.
- Cultural factors often lead to the use of plants outside their natural habitat.
- Different names for plants can indicate their perceived quality and usage.
- Medicinal plants are often chosen based on local traditions and knowledge.
- Substitutions between plants occur based on availability and cultural preferences.
Takeaway
This study shows that where people live and their culture affect which plants they use for medicine, even if those plants don't grow nearby.
Methodology
Fieldwork involved interviewing 505 informants across 218 locations in Navarra using semi-structured ethnobotanical interviews.
Potential Biases
Potential bias from informants' selective memory or cultural influences on plant use.
Limitations
The study may not capture all cultural influences or plant uses due to the limited geographic focus.
Participant Demographics
54.3% of informants were women, aged between 22 and 100 years.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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