Capacidade terapêutica da fitoterapia na odontologia: uma análise abrangente das proteínas antimicrobianas, anti-inflamatórias e reparadoras / Therapeutic capacity of phytotherapy in dentistry: a comprehensive analysis of antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and reparative properties

Introdução: A fitoterapia se baseia na utilização de plantas medicinais, através de diferentes formulações farmacêuticas com fins terapêuticos. Na Odontologia, os fitoterápicos têm sido alvo de estudos, devido suas propriedades benéficas, além de apresentarem biocompatibilidade, baixo custo e fácil acesso. Objetivo: Realizar um levantamento na literatura científica sobre a utilização da fitoterapia na Odontologia, com vistas aos efeitos antimicrobiano, anti-inflamatório e reparador. Material e Métodos: A busca ocorreu entre fevereiro a julho/2023, nas bases PubMed e LILACS, além de livre busca, cruzando-se os descritores "Phytotherapy", "Dentistry", "Anti-inflamatory Agents", "Anti-Infective Agents", "Wound Healing", "Fitoterapia", "Odontologia", "Anti-inflamatório", "Antimicrobiano" e "Cicatrização". Após leitura inicial, seguida da análise crítica com aplicação dos critérios estabelecidos, foram selecionadas 50 referências. Desenvolvimento: Diversas plantas são empregadas sob a forma de fitoterapia, como Aloe vera (babosa), Matricaria recutita (camomila), Copaifera (copaíba), Punica granatum (romã), Uncaria tomentosa (unha-de-gato), Malva sylvestris (malva), Althaea officinalis (malvaísco), Myracrodruon urundeuva (Aroeira), Lippia sidoides (Alecrim pimenta) e Glycyrrhiza glabra (Alcaçuz). Na Odontologia, pesquisas evidenciaram resultados satisfatórios para o tratamento de afecções da cavidade oral, especialmente com caráter inflamatório e infeccioso, além de aclerar a cicatrização. Esses achados apontam que a fitoterapia é um tratamento eficaz, acessível e com mínimos efeitos colaterais. Considerações finais: Com base na literatura revisada, a fitoterapia parece ser uma alternativa promissora no tratamento de afecções orais, devido aos seus notáveis efeitos cicatrizantes, antimicrobianos e anti-inflamatórios. Contudo, mais pesquisas com metodologias adequadas são necessárias para que se estabeleçam protocolos clínicos seguros e eficazes.

Introduction: Phytotherapy is based on the use of medicinal plants through different pharmaceutical formulations for therapeutic purposes. In Dentistry, phytotherapeutics have been the subject of studies due to their beneficial properties, as well as their biocompatibility, low cost, and easy accessibility. Objective: To conduct a literature review on the use of phytotherapy in Dentistry, focusing on antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and reparative effects. Materials and Methods: The search took place between February and July 2023, using PubMed and LILACS databases, in addition to a free search, crossing the descriptors "Phytotherapy," "Dentistry," "Anti-inflammatory Agents," "Anti-Infective Agents," "Wound Healing," "Fitoterapia," "Odontologia," "Anti-inflammatory," "Antimicrobial," and "Cicatrização." After an initial reading, followed by critical analysis with the application of established criteria, 50 references were selected. Development: Various plants are employed in phytotherapy, such as Aloe vera (aloe), Matricaria recutita (chamomile), Copaifera (copaiba), Punica granatum (pomegranate), Uncaria tomentosa (cat's claw), Malva sylvestris (mallow), Althaea officinalis (marshmallow), Myracrodruon urundeuva (Brazilian copaiba), Lippia sidoides (rosemary pepper), and Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice). In Dentistry, research has shown satisfactory results for the treatment of oral cavity conditions, especially those with inflammatory and infectious characteristics, as well as accelerating healing. These findings suggest that phytotherapy is an effective, accessible treatment with minimal side effects. Final considerations: Based on the reviewed literature, phytotherapy appears to be a promising alternative in the treatment of oral conditions due to its notable healing, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects. However, more research with appropriate methodologies is necessary to establish safe and effective clinical protocols.

Dental applications of Punica granatum L. in the treatment of gingivitis: A review of ethnomedicinal uses, randomized clinical trials, and antibacterial potential against Porphyromonas gingivalis.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Mouthwashes based on medicinal plants have demonstrated benefits in controlling plaque and inflammation, acting positively on the oral hygiene of patients with gingivitis. In traditional medicine, Punica granatum L. has been used to treat oral diseases in countries in Europe, Asia, North America, and Africa. AIM OF THE STUDY: The present study aimed to conduct a comprehensive review on the dental applications of Punica granatum L. for the treatment of gingivitis, including ethnomedicinal uses, analysis of randomized clinical trials, antibacterial activity against Porphyromonas gingivalis, mechanisms of action of phytochemicals isolated from this plant, and preclinical toxicity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The literature was retrieved from Google Scholar, PubMed®, SciELO, and ScienceDirect®, since the first report published on the topic in 2001 until March 2024. RESULTS: Several clinical trials have demonstrated that mouthwashes containing P. granatum have equal or better efficacy than chlorhexidine in treating patients with gingivitis, confirming the indications for use of this plant by traditional communities. However, reports on the in vitro antibacterial activity of extracts from the fruits of this plant have not shown clinical relevance against the pathogen P. gingivalis. The ellagitannin punicalagin isolated from P. granatum has shown potential against several strains of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, but, to date, this compound has not yet been tested against P. gingivalis. It is likely that the mechanisms of action of flavonoids, such as quercetin, are involved in the inhibition of the activities of the RgpA, RgpB, and Kgp proteases of P. gingivalis. CONCLUSIONS: In summary, natural products obtained from P. granatum do not present toxic side effects and can be considered as possible substitutes of commercial products recommended for the treatment of gingivitis and other oral diseases.

Traditional uses, botany, phytochemistry, pharmacology and applications of Labisia pumila: A comprehensive review.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Labisia pumila (Blume) Fern.-Vill, also known as Kacip Fatimah, is a traditional medicinal herb common throughout Southeast Asia. It is primarily used to facilitate childbirth and postpartum recovery in women. Additionally, it can also be used to treat dysentery, rheumatism, gonorrhea, and as an anti-flatulent. AIM OF THIS REVIEW: This article aims to provide a comprehensive review of the traditional uses, botany, cultivation, phytochemistry, pharmacological effects, practical applications, and potential uses of L. pumila (LP). Furthermore, we also explore the safety of this plant and its potential prospects for application. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The keywords "Labisia pumila," "Kacip Fatimah," and "Marantodes pumilum" were used to collect relevant information through electronic searches (including Elsevier, PubMed, Google Scholar, Baidu Scholar, CNKI, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science). RESULTS: This review summarizes 102 chemical components from different parts of the plant, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, saponins, and other chemical components. In addition, we also address the associated cultivation conditions, traditional uses, pharmacological effects and toxicity. A large number of reports indicate that LP has various pharmacological effects such as antioxidant, phytoestrogenic, anti-inflammtory, antimicrobial, anti-osteoporosis and anti-obesity properties. These results provide valuable references for future research on LP. In addition, LP is also a potential medicinal and edible plant, and is currently sold on the market as a dietary supplement. CONCLUSIONS: LP is a renowned traditional ethnic medicine with numerous pharmacological activities attributed to its bioactive components. Therefore, isolation and identification of the chemical components in LP can be a focus of our future research. Current studies have focused only on the effects of LP on estrogen deficiency-related diseases in women and bone diseases. There is no scientific evidence for other traditional uses. Therefore, it is important to further explore its pharmacological activities and fill the research gaps related to other traditional uses. Furthermore, research on its safety should be expanded to prepare clinical applications.

The Use of Herbal Medicine and Dietary Supplements in Cancer Patients Receiving Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study.

AIMS: This study aimed to assess the habits and knowledge of cancer patients regarding the use of herbal medicines and dietary supplements in cancer patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI). METHODS: The data of 181 cancer patients who were over 18 years old and received ICIs were collected. The usage patterns, anticipated benefits and harms, and sources of supply were evaluated by filling researcher-prepared forms. RESULTS: Most patients did not use any kind of herbal medicine (91.2%) or dietary supplements (75.9%) during their immunotherapy. Boosting the immune system is the primary motivation for use among users. Multivitamins are the most frequently used supplements. Family members and TV advertisements were the main sources of information, in addition to limited advice from healthcare professionals. A minority of participants reported gastrointestinal side effects. Herbal medicine and dietary supplement use were more prevalent among patients with stage IV cancer and renal cell carcinoma (RCC). DISCUSSION: This study revealed that the limited uptake of herbal medicines and dietary supplements alongside ICI treatment among cancer patients. The lack of adequate information from healthcare professionals poses potential risks to patients. Improved communication with patients, education regarding herbal medicine and dietary supplement use, potential interactions, and associated risks during ICI treatment are essential. Further research is needed to identify the specific needs of patients, anticipated benefits, and potential harms of herbal medicine and dietary supplement use, together with ICIs.

Ethnomedical Knowledge of Plants Used in Nonconventional Medicine for Wound Healing in Lubumbashi, Haut-Katanga Province, DR Congo.

Medicinal plants used for wound healing in Lubumbashi have yet to be discovered. Inventory or profile of their taxa has yet to be established. The present study was carried out to survey the plants used in traditional medicine in Lubumbashi to treat wounds and to define their ethnomedical characteristics. The study was conducted between March 2021 and August 2022, using semistructured interview surveys of households (n = 2730), herbalists (n = 48), and traditional practitioners: TPs (n = 128).The 2,906 interviewed (sex ratio M/F = 0.9; mean age: 56 ± 3 years; and experience: 17 ± 4 years) provided information on 166 taxa, 130 used against chronic wounds, among which Securidaca longepedunculata was the top cited. Most of these taxa are shrubs (33%), belonging to 48 botanical families dominated by the Fabaceae (16%). They are indicated in 70 other pathologies. From these 166 taxa, 198 healing recipes are obtained, 11 combining more than one plant. In all these recipes, the leaf (>36%) is the most used part, and the poultice (>36%) is the most popular form of use. Twelve taxa are cited for the first time as medicinal plants, of which Agelanthus zizyphifolius has the highest consensus and Erigeron sumatrensis has the highest usual value. For the various plants used to treat wounds, some of which are specific to the region, further studies should focus on validating this traditional use.

Ethnobotanical Study of Medicinal Plants in Tehuledere District, Northwest Ethiopia.

Medicinal plants have constituted a fundamental aspect of human health and wellness for millennia. The objective of this study was to document medicinal plants used to treat human and livestock ailments in the Tehuledere District. The data were collected using semistructured interviews, focus group discussions, and field observations with local informants. Preference ranking, direct matrix ranking, and informant consensus factor were used for data analysis. A total of 63 medicinal plant species belonging to 59 genera and 41 families were documented. The predominant families identified were Lamiaceae and Asteraceae, each containing 6 and 5 species, respectively. Of the recorded medicinal plants, 53 (80.95%) species were used for human ailments, whereas 12 (19.05%) species were used for animal health issues. Among the recorded medicinal plant species, shrubs constitute the highest number with 35% species. The most frequently used plant parts were leaves, accounting for 59% of remedies targeting human ailments. The administration of herbal treatments was primarily oral, aimed at addressing various diseases. The most significant threat to these medicinal plants was attributed to agricultural expansion, followed by the collection of firewood. The aim of documenting the use of medicinal plants in the treatment of diseases was to capture traditional practices, with species such as Eucalyptus globulus, Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata, and Lepidium sativum serving as the foundational basis for future pharmacological studies. It is imperative to prioritize the conservation of Laggera tomentosa and Urtica simensis to safeguard biodiversity and the cultural traditions associated with these endangered species. Engaging local communities in the management and conservation of plant resources, along with the preservation of their traditional knowledge, presents a cost-effective and sustainable solution.

Phytotherapy in psychiatry: why psychiatrists should know about it.

There is a substantial use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) among both the general population and psychiatric patients, with only a minority of these users disclosing this information to their healthcare providers, including physicians and psychiatrists. This widespread use of CAM can impact positively or negatively on the clinical outcomes of psychiatric patients, and it is often done along with conventional medicines. Among CAM, phytotherapy has a major clinical relevance due to the introduction of potential adverse effects and drug interactions. Thus, the psychiatrist must learn about phytotherapy and stay up-to-date with solid scientific knowledge about phytotherapeutics/herbal medicines to ensure optimal outcomes for their patients. Furthermore, questions about herbal medicines should be routinely asked to psychiatric patients. Finally, scientifically sound research must be conducted on this subject.

TCMD - DNA Barcoding System for Identifying Herbal Medicine

DNA Barcoding System for Identifying Herbal Medicine (TCMD)is a database for herbal materials provides a species identification module for herbal materials. In this database, ITS2 and psbA–trnH are selected as the core and supplementary DNA barcodes, respectively, for herbal materials. In order to correctly distinguish medicinal species, this database also contains barcoding data for their adulterants, substitutes and closely related species.

TCMPG - Traditional Chinese Medicine Plant Genome

Traditional Chinese Medicine Plant Genome (TCMPG)is a database that not only deposits the genome data of traditional Chinese medical plants, but also provides a series of computational tools for researchers to perform systematical analysis. With kinds of plants, corresponding genomes, and herbs (different parts from the same plant), together with the related information on plant species, genomes, and herbal medicines were included in TCMPG.

Arzneipflanzenlexikon

The Arzneipflanzenlexikon is a database provides a structured compilation of the most important medicinal plants that are used in herbal medicines (phytopharmaceuticals) as active ingredients in the Western world or are traditionally used. The monographs contain information about the plants, specifying the parts of the plants used medicinally and listing the constituents of these drugs. Additionally, important information is provided on the medical use of the drugs: indications, dosage, side effects, interactions, and warnings.

SymMap

SymMap is a database that integrates traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) with modern medicine (MM) through both internal molecular mechanism and external symptom mapping, thus provides massive information on herbs/ingredients, targets, as well as the clinical symptoms and diseases they are used to treat for drug screening efforts.

Garlic and Hypertension: Efficacy, Mechanism of Action, and Clinical Implications.

Hypertension is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Garlic has a long history of use in traditional medicine for various conditions, including hypertension. This narrative review examined the scientific evidence on the efficacy of garlic in lowering blood pressure. It explores the historical uses of garlic in different cultures for medicinal purposes and delves into the phytochemical composition of garlic, highlighting key components, like allicin and ajoene, that are believed to contribute to its potential health benefits. Clinical studies that investigated the effects of garlic and garlic-based supplements on blood pressure are presented, with the findings suggesting that garlic consumption may modestly reduce blood pressure, particularly in individuals with mild hypertension. Potential mechanisms of action include increased nitric oxide production, improved endothelial function, and antioxidant properties. While garlic may offer some benefits for blood pressure management, it should not be considered a substitute for conventional antihypertensive medications. Further large-scale, long-term clinical trials are warranted to establish the efficacy of garlic in managing hypertension, including the optimal dosage and formulation.

Chios Mastic Gum: A Promising Phytotherapeutic for Cardiometabolic Health.

Chios mastic gum (CMG) is a resin obtained from the Pistacia lentiscus var. Chia tree that grows in the Mediterranean. For millennia, it has been renowned for its medicinal properties, but recently, CMG has gained attention due to its pronounced anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties and its use in oral health, inflammatory bowel disease, cancer, and risk factors related to cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. This narrative review seeks to briefly overview its bioactive constituents and examine and describe its potential as a cardiometabolic disease (CMD) phytotherapeutic. The results of clinical trials and in vivo, in vitro, and in silico studies provide accumulating evidence of the mechanisms underlying CMG's impacts on lipid and glucose metabolism, cardiovascular and hepatic health, inflammation, oxidative stress, body composition, and microbiota. Despite the relatively limited studies with mixed results, they have provided the foundation to understand the strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities moving forward that may help to establish CMG and its bioactives as viable therapeutics for CMD.

Vaccinium spp. Berries in the Prevention and Treatment of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Comprehensive Update of Preclinical and Clinical Research.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common chronic liver disorder marked by the buildup of triacylglycerols (TGs) in the liver. It includes a range of conditions, from simple steatosis to more severe forms like non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which can advance to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. NAFLD's prevalence is rising globally, estimated between 10% and 50%. The disease is linked to comorbidities such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, and cardiovascular diseases and currently lacks effective treatment options. Therefore, researchers are focusing on evaluating the impact of adjunctive herbal therapies in individuals with NAFLD. One herbal therapy showing positive results in animal models and clinical studies is fruits from the Vaccinium spp. genus. This review presents an overview of the association between consuming fruits, juices, and extracts from Vaccinium spp. and NAFLD. The search used the following keywords: ((Vaccinium OR blueberry OR bilberry OR cranberry) AND ("non-alcoholic fatty liver disease" OR "non-alcoholic steatohepatitis")). Exclusion criteria included reviews, research notes, book chapters, case studies, and grants. The review included 20 studies: 2 clinical trials and 18 studies on animals and cell lines. The findings indicate that juices and extracts from Vaccinium fruits and leaves have significant potential in addressing NAFLD by improving lipid and glucose metabolism and boosting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory responses. In conclusion, blueberries appear to have the potential to alleviate NAFLD, but more clinical trials are needed to confirm these benefits.

Potential Application of Plant-Derived Compounds in Multiple Sclerosis Management.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammation, demyelination, and neurodegeneration, resulting in significant disability and reduced quality of life. Current therapeutic strategies primarily target immune dysregulation, but limitations in efficacy and tolerability highlight the need for alternative treatments. Plant-derived compounds, including alkaloids, phenylpropanoids, and terpenoids, have demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects in both preclinical and clinical studies. By modulating immune responses and promoting neuroregeneration, these compounds offer potential as novel adjunctive therapies for MS. This review provides insights into the molecular and cellular basis of MS pathogenesis, emphasizing the role of inflammation in disease progression. It critically evaluates emerging evidence supporting the use of plant-derived compounds to attenuate inflammation and MS symptomology. In addition, we provide a comprehensive source of information detailing the known mechanisms of action and assessing the clinical potential of plant-derived compounds in the context of MS pathogenesis, with a focus on their anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.

Antiasthmatic Medicinal Plants of Tanzania: An Ethnomedicinal and Ethnopharmacological Review.

Traditional medicinal plants (TMPs) are a significant part of people's quality of life, offering a natural substitute for modern drugs with numerous side effects. In Tanzania, data on antiasthmatic TMPs are highly fragmented. This review, a comprehensive compilation of ethnobotanical research evidence, aimed to provide a thorough understanding of TMPs used by the locals for asthma management and identify species that have already been investigated in preclinical studies. The review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. To gather relevant literature on antiasthmatic TMPs used by Tanzanians, a web search using electronic databases (Scopus, PubMed, ProQuest, Academic Library, Web of Science, SciFinder, Wiley Online Library, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and African Journals Online) was conducted. The scientific names were verified through the Plants of the World Online database, and the collected information was analysed for descriptive statistics using Microsoft Excel software. The ethnomedicinal information was obtained from 24 different articles. Microsoft Excel software was used to analyse the data using descriptive statistics. A total of 62 TMPs belonging to 33 families were identified. Species of the Fabaceae (14.5%) and Rubiaceae families (8.1%) are the most utilized. The analysis revealed that trees (42.0%) and leaves (40.0%) are the most utilized life forms and plant parts, respectively. Most plant materials (59.7%) used to make remedies were collected from the wild environment. Decoction (55.0%) is the dominant preparation method of remedies, and the majority (69.0%) were orally administered. Of the recorded TMPs, 22.6% had their in vivo antiasthmatic activity reported in the literature. The review also highlighted the strategic significance of preparations of remedies made from TMPs for discovering and developing new antiasthmatic drugs. However, the need to identify the molecular targets of action and toxicological aspects of the TMPs should be considered.

Development of Ampelopsis Radix Ethanolic Extract Loaded Phytosomes for Improved Efficacy in Colorectal Cancer: in vitro and in vivo Assessment Study.

The aim of present work was to develop and evaluate Ampelopsis Radix ethanolic extract loaded phytosomes for improved efficacy in colorectal cancer. Ampelopsis Radix ethanolic extract was prepared by Soxhlet extraction process followed by development of phytosomes using lipids and other excipients. The phytosomes were evaluated for surface morphology, particle size analysis, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, drug loading, in vitro drug release, Cytotoxicity assay, cellular uptake studies were performed on HCT-116 and SW480 cell lines. In vivo antitumor activity was performed. The phytosomes were found spherical shape with smooth surface characteristics. The drug loading was observed between 29.27 to 42.10 % while particle size of 85 to 130 nm was found. Phytosomes showed desired release pattern which is required for cancer treatment. Phytosomes showed maximum antiproliferative activity on cell lines over the period of 24 hours and showed highest internalization within both types of cell lines. The survival rate of animals in phytosomes treated group was found to be 100% proving the safety and efficacy. Phytosomes showed highest antitumor activity as compared to other formulations. Study confirms the potential use Ampelopsis Radix ethanolic extract loaded phytosomes for improved efficacy in colorectal cancer.

Oral mucositis management with photobiomodulation, Bidens pilosa L. (Asteraceae) and Curcuma longa L. (Zingiberaceae), the FITOPROT herbal medicine, and its influence on inflammatory cytokine levels: a randomized clinical trial.

PURPOSE: This randomized clinical trial aimed to compare the effects of a mucoadhesive formula, containing curcuminoids from Curcuma longa L. and glycerinated extract of Bidens pilosa L. (FITOPROT), associated with photobiomodulation (PBM), and of PBM exclusively, on the incidence of oral mucositis (OM)-induced by radiotherapy (RT) in the head and neck region, and the salivary expression of inflammatory cytokines, in patients with head neck cancer. METHODS: Patients were randomly assigned into two intervention groups-FITOPROT + PBM (n = 25) or PBM (n = 27). PBM protocol comprised a wavelength of 660 nm, 25 mW, 0.25 J/point, and daily irradiation from the first until the last day of RT. FITOPROT was gargled twice a day. All patients underwent a preventive oral care program throughout the study. OM degree, salivary concentration of nitrite, and inflammatory (IL-1, TNFα, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-12p70), and anti-inflammatory (IL-10) cytokines were assessed at baseline, and at the 7th, 14th, 21st, and 30th RT sessions. RESULTS: There were no differences in the OM degree between groups, but the RT dose significantly affected the OM. The RT significantly affected the salivary nitrite, TNFα, IL-1ß, and IL-10 concentrations. CONCLUSION: FITOPROT associated with PBM showed limited effects on preventing the incidence of severe OM compared to PBM alone. However, FITOPROT + PBM may be associated with nitrite and cytokine balance, which may contribute to the occurrence of fewer cases of severe OM. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Brazilian Clinical Trials database (ReBEC; RBR-9vddmr), registered UTN code: U1111-1193-2066, registered in August 8th, 2017.

Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants in Dibatie district, Metekel zone, Benishangul Gumuz Regional State, western Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: Herbal medicine has been used for the treatment of human and livestock ailments since ancient times. Numerous rural and urban communities in Ethiopia practice traditional medicine and transfer the knowledge verbally from generation to generation. Thus, this study was conducted to document the traditional medicinal plants and associated indigenous knowledge in Dibatie district, Metekel zone, Benishangul Gumuz Regional State, western Ethiopia. METHODS: Three hundred seventy-four (374) informants from 11 kebeles (the smallest administrative units) were selected and participated in the data delivery. The ethnobotanical data collection was carried out using semi-structured interviews, preference ranking, direct matrix ranking, field observation, market surveys, and focus group discussions, including voucher specimen collections. The ethnobotanical data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency and percentage), ranking, comparison, and quantitative ethnobotanical techniques such as informant consensus factor, fidelity level index, Jaccard's coefficient of similarity, and use value index. RESULTS: A total of 170 plant species were recorded to treat 79 human and 29 livestock ailments. Fabaceae (with 20 species) and Asteraceae (with 18 species) were the most dominant medicinal plant families in the area. Most remedial plants were herbs (61 species, 35.88%), followed by shrubs (39 species, 22.94%). The majority (135 species, 79.41%) of medicinal plants were harvested from wild sources and mainly possessed multiple remedy parts (41.17%) that are usually prescribed in fresh form (60.13%). The most commonly reported human ailment was snake venom, while blackleg was mostly reported among livestock diseases. The herbal medicines were mostly administered orally (52.20%), followed by dermal (17.62%) application. Embelia schimperi Vatke, Glinus lotoides L., Haplosciadium abyssinicum Hochst., Mucuna melanocarpa Hochst. ex A. Rich., and Phragmanthera macrosolen (Steud. ex A. Rich.) M.G.Gilbert had the highest fidelity level values (100%) against the corresponding ailments. CONCLUSION: The study area is rich in a diversity of potential medicinal plants and associated indigenous knowledge. Thus, appropriate conservation actions and careful utilization are essential to counteract the rise of anthropogenic threats and to ensure the continuity of plants with the related indigenous knowledge. Additionally, the medicinal plants should be validated through experimentation to integrate local knowledge with modern medications.