An Ethnobotanical Survey of Plants Traditionally Used by Local Communities in the Erbaa District of Tokat Province, Türkiye

Abstract

Aims: This study aimed to identify the plant species traditionally used by the inhabitants of the Erbaa district of Tokat Province, to determine the diversity of their uses, and to highlight the ethnobotanical significance of these plants. Study Design: This study was designed as an ethnobotanical survey focusing on the plants traditionally used by local communities in the Erbaa district of Tokat Province. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in the Erbaa district, located in Tokat Province in the Central Black Sea Region of Türkiye, between 2017 and 2018. Erbaa lies on fertile plains formed by the confluence of the Kelkit and Tozanlı Rivers, which together create the Yeşilırmak River. The area is predominantly forested, with olive trees on north-facing slopes and yellow pines on south-facing slopes, and exhibits a transitional climate between the Black Sea and Central Anatolia regions. Methodology: Field surveys were carried out in both the district center and surrounding villages to identify key informants and collect ethnobotanical data. Plant specimens were collected and identified using Flora of Turkey, supported by regional floristic studies. Each taxon was recorded with its vernacular name, locality, part used, usage form, and purpose. Results: A total of 139 taxa belonging to 55 families were identified. The Asteraceae, Rosaceae, Fabaceae, and Lamiaceae were the most dominant families accounting for approximately 38% of all taxa in terms of their ethnobotanical use in the region. Phytogeographical analysis revealed that the majority of taxa belonged to the “others” category (104 taxa), while Euro-Siberian (18), Mediterranean (9), Irano-Turanian (4), and Eastern Mediterranean (4) elements were also represented. According to Raunkiaer’s life-form classification, the dominant life forms were hemicryptophytes (46 taxa), phanerophytes (44), and therophytes (34), followed by cryptophytes (11), one chamaephyte, two fungi, and one lichen. The taxa identified in the study area were mainly used for food (55), medicine (48), fuel (9), building material (6), repellent (6), seasoning (6), belief (5), household goods (5), ornament (5) etc. In addition, 11 taxa have no use and are only known by their names to the locals.