Diversity, Distribution, Use Pattern and Evaluation of Wild Edible Plants of Uttarakhand, India

Abstract

Wild edible plants are crucial not only for their role as a source of food and nutrition but are also integral part of culture and traditions of the Himalayan societies. Because of availability of diverse altitudinal, topographical and microclimatic conditions, the state of Uttarakhand supports a huge diversity of wild edible plants. Most of the species of wild edible plants in Uttarakhand are primarily consumed as a food by the local communities residing in remote hilly regions. However, several other species are consumed for their medicinal and health promoting benefits. The availability of enormous diversity of wild edible plants in the region has attracted attention of researchers. Consequently, research has been carried out on different aspects of wild edible plants. These include studies on distribution and use pattern, development of propagation protocols and bioprospecting and biochemical evaluation. As a result of this, some of the species are being utilized at commercial scale, and thus are considered capable of providing alternate options of livelihood for marginal communities residing in far flung areas of the state. However, there are several other promising species of wild fruits in the region, which need attention for conducting research on various aspects so that their optimum nutritional and economic potentials could be harnessed in sustainable manner.