Ethnobotanical insights into clove (Syzygium aromaticum) usage in Morocco: Perceptions, practices, and knowledge

Abstract

Syzygium aromaticum (clove) is widely used in Morocco for medicinal, culinary, and cosmetic purposes. This study evaluated knowledge, practices, and perceptions regarding clove across the Rabat-Salé-Kénitra region, accounting for socio-demographic influences. A mixed-methods approach involved semi-structured questionnaires administered to 100 participants, combined with ethnobotanical indices (Family Use Value, Relative Usage Index) and statistical analyses (Chi-square tests, Multiple Correspondence Analysis). Significant differences in clove use were associated with education and occupation, with herbalists and farmers exhibiting the highest engagement. Most users had limited formal education. Whole cloves and powder were the predominant forms, primarily used for treating toothache, pain, and infections. Culinary applications were most frequent, followed by medicinal and cosmetic uses, the latter more common among younger participants. Positive perceptions prevailed: 80% recommended clove and 70% recognized its potential role in modern healthcare. Health awareness (45%) and biomedical influences (20%) were the major drivers of changes in clove usage patterns. Multiple Correspondence Analysis revealed that middle-aged individual respondents with lower formal education were strongly associated with whole clove and powder for culinary and traditional medicinal uses, consistent with familial knowledge transmission. In contrast, younger demographic groups with higher levels of education were positioned with more processed forms (clove oil and infusions) and cosmetic applications. These findings underscore the enduring cultural and therapeutic significance of clove in Moroccan households and suggest promising avenues for its integration into public health and phytotherapeutic strategies.