Ethnobotanical Study of Medicinal Plants Used for Prostatitis in Dehloran County, Ilam Province, Western Iran

Abstract

Introduction: Prostatitis is an inflammatory condition of the prostate gland caused by bacterial infections or non-infectious factors. This condition is typically characterized by symptoms such as pelvic pain, urinary frequency, and burning during urination. If left untreated, prostatitis may result in complications, including sexual dysfunction, infertility, and chronic urinary infections. This ethnobotanical study aims to identify and document medicinal plants traditionally used in Dehloran County, Ilam Province, based on the local inhabitants’ traditional knowledge. Methodology: A mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative techniques, was employed. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 25 herbalists and traditional healers in Dehloran. The collected information was analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative methods to provide a comprehensive understanding of the traditional uses of medicinal plants in the region. Results: The study identified eight species of medicinal plants traditionally recognized in the Dehloran region as effective remedies for prostate-related issues. These plants include borage, pumpkin, licorice, yarrow, camel’s thorn, ginger, nettle, and chicory. Among these, borage and pumpkin exhibited the highest usage rates, with a Use Report (UR) of 9, Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) of 0.36, and Percentage of Familiarity and Use (PFU) of 34.6%, making them the most commonly utilized plants for managing prostate conditions in the area. Conclusion: The findings of this study highlight the traditional use of several indigenous medicinal plants in Dehloran for alleviating prostatitis symptoms. These results can aid in the preservation of traditional knowledge and support the development of complementary therapies for prostatitis.

Keywords: Ethnobotany, Medicinal plants, Prostate, Dehloran, Remedy