Study of the Consumption of Medicinal Plants of Rangeland Ecosystems and Determination of the Professional Characteristics of these Plants in Isfahan

Plants are one of the first and most accessible sources of treatment. Today, the use of medicinal plants is increasing rapidly. Knowing the taste and approach of communities to taking medicinal plants, as well as paying attention to the views and suggestions of consumers of medicinal plants, can be a good guide for planners and policy makers of the country's pharmaceutical industry. The demand for medicinal plants is influenced by various cultural and social factors. This research was carried out with the aim of investigating the role of various social factors in the demand of medicinal plants and the impact of rangeland ecosystems on supplying plants in Isfahan. This research was carried out using a survey method. Data from this research was gathered through a questionnaire from 33 selleres of herbal medicine in Isfahan in 2015. The validity of the questionnaire was confirmed by a panel of experts. Cronbach's alpha coefficient equaled 0.877, which proved the credibility of the questionnaire. The results showed that Echium amoenum (57.6%) was purchased as the largest plant, and psychiatric and psychological disorders (79.2%) were the most common cause of referring people to Isfahan's herbal medicine stores. Also, the most medicinal plants purchased by seller of them, have been from rangeland habitats.