Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1 Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, Payame Noor University, PO Box 3697-19395, Tehran, Iran
2 Department of Biology, Payame Noor Universtiy, PO Box 3697-19395, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
Humanity has relied on plants for survival and improved quality of life throughout history. This study aims to comprehensively investigate the ethnobotany of wild plants in the Garin region of Selseleh County, located in the Zagros vegetation zone. The studied human population comprises the Lak-speaking nomads of four villages: Kahman Bala, Kahman Payin, Dekamound, and Gerakan. The research employed a qualitative ethnobotanical approach. Data were collected over a six-month survey (April to October 2023) through in-depth interviews with 12 individuals (6 men and 6 women, average age 59.5 years) and questionnaires, analyzed using inductive content analysis. Results identified 75 plant species from 28 families, used for medicinal (69.3%), edible (50.7%), fodder (5.3%), ornamental (10.7%), and ritual (2.7%) purposes. The primary medicinal uses were for digestive, respiratory, and renal issues, while edible plants supported seasonal economies. This knowledge, deeply tied to the cultural and ethnic identity of the nomads, faces threats from youth migration and climate change. Documenting it aids in cultural preservation and sustainable development. Educational programs for sustainable harvesting and local markets are recommended.
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Keywords
- Indigenous knowledge
- wild plants
- Lak-speaking nomads
- Garin region
- ethnobotany
- sustainable development
Main Subjects
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