Ethnobotanical Survey of Ornamental and Cosmetic Plants Used by Women in the Abyan Delta Region, Yemen
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Abyan, Yemen, Cosmetic Plants, Ethnobotany, Hair Care, Natural Products, Skin Care, Traditional Knowledge
Abstract
This study aimed to document the traditional use of plants and their products for cosmetic and dermatological purposes in Abyan, Yemen. A total of 22 plant species belonging to 17 families were recorded, with Malvaceae and Asteraceae being the most represented. Leaves were the most frequently utilised plant part, followed by fruits, while seeds, oils, flowers, and bark were used less commonly. The recorded applications included hair care, skin care, health-related cosmetic benefits, and ornamental or aromatic uses. Regional comparisons with Northeastern Ethiopia and Egypt revealed similarities in preferred species and cosmetic functions, reflecting a shared ethnobotanical heritage and the cultural and biological significance of these plants. The findings indicate that the people of the Abyan Delta possess a well-developed traditional knowledge system integrating plants into cosmetic, cultural, and medicinal practices, highlighting their potential as candidates for the development of safe and effective natural cosmetic products. The study also emphasises the need for future phytochemical and pharmacological investigations to validate bioactive compounds and to explore their applications in modern cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries.
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