Current Knowledge and Utilization of Medicinal Plants and Fungi in Northeastern Croatia

TL;DR

This study explores traditional knowledge of medicinal plants and fungi in northeastern Croatia, revealing a rich ethnobotanical heritage.

Contribution

The paper documents previously unrecorded ethnobotanical knowledge in the Baranja region of Croatia.

Findings

117 plant species and 7 mushrooms were identified for medicinal use in the Baranja region.

Rosaceae, Lamiaceae, and Asteraceae were the most commonly used plant families.

Plants were primarily used for digestive and respiratory ailments, with high consensus on their effectiveness.

Abstract

Knowledge related to the use of plants and mushrooms in the Baranja region of Croatia was documented through semi-structured interviews of 105 informants in 12 villages. We found 117 plant species and 7 mushrooms with medicinal uses. Rosaceae, Lamiaceae, and Asteraceae were the families with the most species, while Sambucus nigra, Chamomilla recutita, and Taraxacum officinale were the most frequently mentioned species. Leaves, fruits, and flowers were the most commonly used plant parts, predominantly prepared as infusions, syrups, and tinctures. Plants were mainly used to treat digestive and respiratory ailments, with the highest informant consensus recorded for ear, eye, and respiratory disorders. The results emphasize the persistence of rich ethnobotanical knowledge in the study area and highlight the importance of preserving this cultural and biological heritage for future generations.

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