Ethnobotanical study of wild edible plants in Gursum district, Ethiopia: implications for nutrition, health, and food security

BACKGROUND: Wild edible plants (WEPs) are vital components of traditional food systems, supporting nutrition, health, and livelihood resilience in food-insecure and climate-vulnerable regions. In eastern Ethiopia, particularly the Somali Region, communities rely on WEPs to supplement diets and cope with seasonal food shortages. However, comprehensive documentation of species diversity, indigenous knowledge, and conservation challenges remains limited. This study assessed the diversity, use patterns, indigenous knowledge, and public health relevance of WEPs in Gursum District. METHODS: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted from February to December 2024 using semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, guided field walks, and market surveys. A total of 100 informants, including 25 key informants, were selected through purposive and snowball sampling. Plant specimens were collected and identified using standard taxonomic references, with voucher numbers assigned. Quantitative ethnobotanical indices and statistical analyses (ANOVA, regression) were applied to examine knowledge distribution across socio-demographic groups. Focus group discussions were audio-recorded, transcribed, and thematically analyzed to complement quantitative findings. RESULTS: Forty-four WEP species, representing 30 genera and 17 families, were documented. Fruits (61%) and leafy vegetables (27%) were the most commonly consumed plant parts, while tubers and roots (12%) served as important famine foods. Women, elders, married individuals, and illiterate informants demonstrated significantly higher WEP knowledge (p < 0.05). WEPs contributed to dietary diversity, micronutrient intake, income generation, and resilience during food shortages. Major threats to their sustainability included overharvesting, land-use change, climate variability, and erosion of indigenous knowledge. CONCLUSION: WEPs play a critical role in supporting nutrition, health, and food security in Gursum District. Integrating indigenous knowledge with conservation, nutrition, and public health strategies is essential to safeguard these resources and enhance community resilience in semi-arid regions.