A Science Evolves: More Than Just a Name Change
In the world of science, names matter. They define a field's scope, mission, and identity.
In June 2023, the Society for Economic Botany officially became the Society for Ethnobotany, a change that signals a significant evolution in this interdisciplinary science 1 . This isn't merely a rebranding exercise; it represents a fundamental shift from a primary focus on plants as economic commodities to a broader, more inclusive study of the intricate relationships between plants, people, and cultures 1 5 .
Ethnobotany, often termed "the science of survival," encompasses the past, present, and future uses of plants 1 . This transformation reflects a deeper understanding that to truly harness the benefits of the plant kingdom, we must first understand the cultural systems that have discovered, used, and conserved plant knowledge for millennia.
The most valuable solutions are often found not just in the plants themselves, but in the wisdom of the cultures that have nurtured them for generations.
The discipline has deep historical roots. Nineteenth-century botanists who focused on plant utility began referring to their work as economic botany 2 . Their goal was to document local plant uses and organize this data according to botanical classification, creating detailed works on plants used for food, medicine, textiles, and utensils 2 .
This field expanded as explorers from Europe and North America searched the tropics for products that could fuel economic growth. This historical context is inextricably linked with colonial projects, where botanical gardens and agricultural stations served to identify and develop profitable crops like coffee, tea, cocoa, and rubber for colonial powers 2 .
Documenting plant uses and classifying useful species according to botanical classification.
Studying human-plant relationships with emphasis on conservation and ethical collaboration.
The June 2025 issue of Economic Botany, the society's flagship journal, showcases the diverse and impactful research being conducted in the field today 4 . One study, titled "The Use of Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) Leaf Among Rural Communities in Malaysia," provides a perfect example of modern ethnobotanical research 4 .
Researchers employed a mixed-methods approach to understand kratom use in its cultural context. The study likely involved:
The study found that kratom use is deeply embedded in the local culture, with specific knowledge passed down through generations. Rural communities have developed precise methods for harvesting, preparing, and using the leaves, often for purposes like managing fatigue or easing discomfort 4 .
This research is scientifically important because it provides a foundational cultural context for a plant that has generated international debate. Understanding its traditional use can inform broader discussions about its safety, efficacy, and potential for sustainable use. It highlights a core principle of ethnobotany: that traditional knowledge can offer invaluable insights for the global community.
| Use Category | Specific Application | Part Used | Preparation Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stimulant | Combat fatigue during labor | Leaf | Fresh leaves chewed |
| Well-being | Mood elevation, social interaction | Leaf | Brewed as a tea |
| Traditional Remedy | Managing various ailments | Leaf | Paste, decoction, or powder |
Conducting this type of research requires a specific set of tools. Ethnobotanists blend the equipment of a field botanist with the methods of an anthropologist.
For examining minute floral and foliar structures critical for plant identification.
To create voucher specimens—scientific proof of the plant being studied.
Essential for accurate on-site plant identification.
Contains fine-point forceps, scalpels, and probes for examining plant parts.
For meticulous, on-the-spot notes about the plant and its cultural uses.
| Tool/Solution Category | Specific Examples | Function in Research |
|---|---|---|
| Documentation & ID | Plant press, voucher specimens, dichotomous keys 3 | Provides permanent record and ensures accurate identification of study species |
| Cultural Engagement | Interview protocols, participatory rural appraisal tools, surveys | Builds trust and gathers qualitative data on plant use and knowledge |
| Scientific Analysis | Herbarium archives, nutrient test kits, genetic analysis tools 3 | Allows for deeper chemical, genetic, and ecological study of useful plants |
| Ethical Compliance | Prior Informed Consent (PIC) forms, benefit-sharing agreements | Ensures research is ethical, legal, and mutually beneficial for communities |
The work of the Society for Ethnobotany has never been more critical. As our planet faces biodiversity loss and climate change, understanding the intricate relationships between plants and people is a scientific pursuit and a necessity for survival 5 . The society's journal will officially reflect this expanded scope in January 2026, changing its title to Ethnobotany and Economic Botany 8 .
From ensuring that the rosewood production chain in the Brazilian Amazon is sustainable, to conserving socio-economically valuable plants in Uganda, the research published by the society tackles real-world problems 4 . The field is moving beyond simply listing useful plants to analyzing the context of their use, asking why certain species are used, and how we can apply this knowledge to create a more sustainable and healthy future .
The transformation of the Society for Economic Botany into the Society for Ethnobotany marks a mature, respectful, and holistic chapter in our timeless quest to learn from the plant kingdom. It acknowledges that the most valuable solutions are often found not just in the plants themselves, but in the wisdom of the cultures that have nurtured them for generations.
January 2026
The society's journal changes its title to Ethnobotany and Economic Botany 8 .