The role of wild edible plants and their medicinal values used by the native people of Dakshin Dinajpur, West Bengal, India- a quantitative study

Abstract

The main aim of the present study was to gather comprehensive data on the wild edibles found in Dakshin Dinajpur, West Bengal, India, assess their cultural value, and comprehend how they contribute to the local tribes' attainment of food security. We gathered traditional knowledge about edible wild plants by administering a semi-structured questionnaire. Data collection followed standard protocols. To determine which species were most frequently cited and of cultural significance, the gathered data were subjected to specialized statistical analysis using tools such as the Cultural Food Significance Index (CFSI) and Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC). To determine how similar food plants are used in various Balurghat District localities and neighboring areas, the Jaccard Similarity Index (JI) was employed. A total of 1,603 citations were made by the 96 participants for 63 types of wild edibles spread across 36 families. Among the 63 species, 60 species were angiosperms, three species were pteridophytes. The RFC value was found to be in the range of 0.05-0.07. The most constantly referred species was identified as Madhuca longifolia (L.) J. F. Macbr. (RFC= 0,76; FC= 116). A total of 13 wild edible species was identified as the most traditionally valuable species in the locality including Marsilea vestita Hook. & Grev., Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott, Termitomyces heimii Natarajan, Enydra fluctuans Lour etc. For the tribal community of eastern India, using these wild edibles scientifically and sustainably can be a smart move towards achieving multiple health benefits and food security. Furthermore, culturally acceptable species can be a good source for nutraceutical bioprospecting.