A Review of wild edible plants in Manipur
Enhancing sustainable livelihoods and economic development in the Indo-Myanmar Hotspot Region
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 16807803 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Maisnam Milochka Leisembi, Robert Panmei (0000-0002-5297-5964, North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology), Pinaki Adhikary (North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology), Salam Dillip, RS Loushambam, R S Loushambam (0000-0001-8540-4482) |
| Year | 2024 |
| Volume | 29 |
| Publication date | 2024-11-12 |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | Ethnobotany Research and Applications (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 1547-3465 • E-ISSN: 1547-3465 |
| Publisher | Ilia State University (PUBLISHER) |
| DOI | 10.32859/era.29.59.1-50 |
| OpenAlex | W4404268267 |
| Language | EN |
| Citations received | 1 |
Background: Wild edible plants immensely benefit the livelihood, culture, and the economy of people mostly residing near forests and remote areas. The study aims to present taxonomic diversity and utilization patterns of the WEPs in Manipur state as well as to identify the commonly used WEPs among different ethnic groups, that could be prioritized for enhancing economic and livelihoods. Methods: A total of 44 research articles of primary field studies emphasizing on wild edible plants are scrutinized. Market surveys are conducted to gain insight into the market values of the WEPs. Relative Frequency of Citation and market value are determined to identify potential species for economic and sustainable livelihood ventures. Results: The study identified 408 WEPs distributed across 93 families and 248 genera. Among the various edible categories, the use of leaves in cooked vegetable form is the most prevalent. The inflorescence of Wendlandia glabrata (120-150 INR/kg), dried fruits of Rhus chinensis (100-150 INR/kg), fruits of Litsea cubeba (100-120 INR/kg), shoot of Cycas pectinata (80-100 INR/kg), and leaves of Zanthoxylum acanthopodium (40-50 INR/kg) shows higher RFCs and market value, indicating higher market potential that could significantly improve the livelihood of local communities. Conclusion: The study present opportunities for future bioprospecting and domestication of these promising species for livelihood and economic enhancement. By promoting and valuing WEPs, we can diversify our food sources, alleviate pressure on agriculture, improve socio-economic conditions, understand local ecosystems, and preserve cultural heritage. Keywords: Wild edibles, economic plants, livelihood, Ethnobotany, Indo-Myanmar biodiversity hotspot
Agriculture · Agroforestry · Biology · Geography · Livelihood · Sustainable development · Agricultural Economics and Practices · Animal Diversity and Health Studies · Ecology
| Citations per year | 1 |
|---|---|
| Citation span | 2026 - 2026 (1) |
| Highly cited | No |