Uses, Abundance Perception and Potential Geographical Distribution of Smilax Aristolochiifolia Mill (Smilacaceae) in the Totonacapan Region of Puebla, Mexico

The study investigated the use and distribution of Smilax aristolochiifolia, known as "Kgentsililh," in the Totonacapan region of Puebla, Mexico. Through 260 interviews across 13 locations, it was found that 82 indigenous families had stopped consuming the plant, with its use in traditional medicine, particularly for treating baldness, still prevalent. The decline in the plant's abundance was attributed to land use changes, herbicide application, climate change, and urbanization. Despite its socio-economic importance, especially in food, the plant's low abundance was noted. The study identified potential conservation areas in 37 municipalities using ecological modeling.