Ethnobotanical Study of Effective Medicinal Plants as Laxative (Anti-constipation): A Case Study in Arasbaran Forests, Northwest Iran

Introduction: Constipation is recognized as a common gastrointestinal problem that many sick and healthy individuals suffer from. Laxative therapy is a reliable way to treat constipation. Several medicinal plants exert laxative potential. Hence, we decided to identify medicinal plants with laxative properties in Arasbaran Forests, East Azerbaijan Province, Northwest Iran. Methods: This ethnobotanical study was conducted in Arasbaran Forests, East Azerbaijan Province, and Northwest Iran from October 2022 to December 2022. Questionnaires were distributed among 20 traditional medicine doctors and finally, traditional information on the therapeutic effect of medicinal plants was collected through interviews. Demographic information from indigenous people who have traditional botanical knowledge was also collected. Eventually, the data were analyzed. Results: Our work revealed that thirteen medicinal herbs from 11 herbal families have potent laxative effects. The Berberidaceae, Equisetaceae, Caprifoliaceae, Celasteraceae, Asteraceae, Cucurbitaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Grossulariaceae, Polygonacea, Polypodiaceae, and Rosaceae families had laxative effects. Fruit, leaves, aerial parts, bark, root, and rhizome were the most effective parts, respectively. These medicinal plants were administrated in decoction and fresh form. Conclusion: The findings show the traditional laxative effects of medicinal plants against constipation in this region, which have traditional uses. Therefore, identifying the phytochemical constituents of these plants and understanding the mechanism of their laxative effect can be helpful.