Ajloun, June 24 (Petra) -- Ajloun's rich natural environment continues to support a remarkable diversity of medicinal and aromatic plants, reinforcing the governorate's status as one of Jordan's leading centers of biodiversity. Among these species is khella (Ammi visnaga), commonly known as toothpick weed, a plant renowned for its medicinal properties and longstanding presence in local heritage.

Director of Agriculture in Ajloun, Sitan Sarhan, said the governorate's varied terrain, fertile ecosystems and moderate climate have created ideal conditions for the growth of numerous medicinal and aromatic plants that have long been associated with traditional healing practices.

He noted that toothpick weed grows extensively in Ajloun's forests, valleys and agricultural lands, highlighting the importance of preserving natural vegetation and protecting wild plant species from overgrazing and indiscriminate harvesting to ensure their sustainability for future generations.

Researcher in Ajloun's cultural heritage, Abdullah Qudah, said toothpick weed has occupied a special place in the collective memory of local communities for decades, with knowledge of its benefits passed down through generations as part of a broader tradition of utilizing wild plants in daily life.

He added that familiarity with medicinal plants and their uses once formed an integral part of community culture across Ajloun's villages and towns, reflecting the close relationship between residents and their natural surroundings.

Meanwhile, Muath Qudah said the fruit of toothpick weed contains khellin, a naturally occurring compound used in the production of certain pharmaceutical treatments, underscoring the plant's longstanding medicinal significance.

He explained that decoctions made from the fruit of toothpick weed have traditionally been used to help relieve kidney colic by relaxing ureter muscles and facilitating the passage of small kidney stones, in addition to their diuretic properties. He noted that medical studies have also explored the plant's potential applications in treating certain heart-related conditions and whooping cough.

Qudah stressed, however, the importance of using medicinal plants under medical supervision and not as substitutes for prescribed treatments.

Ashraf Momani, owner of a spice shop in Ajloun, said demand for toothpick weed remains steady, driven by public awareness of its traditional uses and inherited reputation as a natural remedy.

Muhannad Samadi, a member of the Environment Unites Us initiative, said medicinal and aromatic plants represent a vital component of Ajloun's environmental wealth and biodiversity, calling for greater public awareness and community participation in efforts to conserve these valuable natural resources.

The continued presence of toothpick weed across Ajloun's landscapes highlights the governorate's unique ecological character and reflects the enduring connection between biodiversity, traditional knowledge and the sustainable use of natural resources.

//Petra// AJ