Ethnomedicinal Evaluation of Medicinal Plants Used against Gastrointestinal Disorders in the Western Middle Atlas Region (Morocco)

Abstract

Aims:The gastrointestinal tract is one of the most important organs of the human body and is vulnerable to different diseases. Available drugs often have low efficacy or are associated with many adverse effects. Therefore, alternative drugs are necessary to treat gastrointestinal complications. This study intended to identify medicinal plants in the Western Middle Atlas, Morocco, that can affect gastrointestinal disorders. Place and Duration of Study: Field studies were carried out approximately over a period of two years (2013)(2014). Methodology: During the field trips, the information was collected through interviews, including various data obtained from local healers and traditional medicine men, herbalists, shepherds, patients and elderly persons.