DEVELOPMENT OF NATIVE PLANTS

^{Biodiversity and creation of shared wealth}

^{The promotion of native species is of paramount importance, both from an agronomic and cultural point of view. However, most of these plants have not yet been characterized or exploited biologically and chemically. It is in this context that Phosboucraa Foundation supports ASARI in the development and promotion of local products based on aromatic and medicinal plants with high added value.}

^{Thus, among the 56 plants listed, 25 were selected due to their indigenous origin. Using a specially developed extraction method, the extracts of these 25 plants were analyzed and characterized. Among them, six species have proven to be of great cosmetic and pharmaceutical value: Lavandula coronopifolia (Khailat elkhail), Ephedra alata Dence (Chdida & âallenda), Searsia tripartita (Jdari), Caroxylon tetragonum (Laârade), Ricinus communis (Awriwar) and Nucularia perrinii (Askaf). Quercetin and its derivatives, bioactive substances present in these plants, are known for their antioxidant and anti-aging effects, widely used in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industry.}

^{Inclusive scientific approach}

^{Thanks to field diagnostics, ASARI was able to identify the richness of the regional aromatic heritage, but the use of these plants requires better control and standardization of extraction, analysis and valorization methods.}

^{Hence, as part of this project, a fully equipped phytochemistry laboratory was installed, as well as a greenhouse to facilitate research and experiments. In order to promote the transfer of knowledge, two master students and a post-doctoral fellow were trained, contributing to the strengthening of local skills in research and innovation. In addition, a workshop was organized for local cooperatives in order to share knowledge and good practices. Finally, it should be noted that a patent is currently being validated, and two scientific publications have been shared.}