Glechoma hederacea (Lamiaceae): Key features in its native range, habitats, cultural significance, impacts and sustainability status

Abstract

The existence and sustainability of the ethnobotanical plant species are among the most important resources for the world, especially considering hunger and economic contribution. Moreover, the use of wild plant species for medical purposes for human and animal health increases the value of these plants. Therefore, social awareness is important for the effective and sustainable use of the relevant species. The main reason for this study is the warnings of local community who have this social awareness. Here, we worked on Glechoma hederacea L., which we recorded for the first time in Düzce in 2019, due to the environmental and socioeconomic impacts reported to us by the local community. This study aimed to determine G. hederacea's presence in native range, its habitats, some morphological and phenological data and Cultural Food Importance Index value. In addition, the use of the plant in the local area, the parts used and the impacts of ethnobotanical use on the sustainability of its natural spread are presented. For this purpose, the plant was followed in Düzce central district between July 2019 and May 2020. As a result, it was determined that G. hederacea started flowering in March in Düzce and the flowering continued until the end of November. In Düzce, which is built on a plain, it has been determined that G. hederacea was widespread primarily in pastures, natural open areas, roadsides, open woodlands, tree edges, agricultural and urban habitats. Moreover, for the sustainability of the plant, it has been determined that local community take some sub-regional measures against vegetation removal and even carry out small activities for plant propagation. However, the ratio between harvesting rate and planting is not sufficient. Considering this situation, awareness activities for G. hederacea as well as other plant species with ethnobotanical use and, when necessary, encouraging the production of the relevant native species for medical purposes will be useful.