Preliminary survey of wild edibles of kolli hills of salem
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Preliminary survey of wild edibles of kolli hills of salem
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Original source:
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P. Ranjithakani, S. Geetha, G. Lakshmi, S. Murugan
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Preliminary survey of wild edibles of kolli hills of salem
Year: 1992
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The paper discusses a preliminary survey of 25 wild edible species used by the Kollimalayalis, a tribal community residing in the Kolli Hills of Salem District, Tamil Nadu, India. These hills, characterized by their altitude ranging from 1000 m to 1500 m and diverse geological composition, provide a unique ecosystem for indigenous flora. The research conducted by Ranjithakani et al. aims to document the traditional knowledge of wild edibles, including their vernacular names and the specific plant parts utilized by the local population, thereby preserving the cultural heritage associated with these natural resources.
The Importance of Ethnobotanical Knowledge
One crucial concept highlighted in the paper is the significance of ethnobotanical knowledge among the Kollimalayalis, who have used wild edibles for sustenance. The study lists various species, such as Acacia pennata, Passiflora calcarata, and Solanum nigrum, detailing their respective vernacular names and the parts of the plants traditionally consumed. For instance, tender parts of Amaranthus species are used as greens, while fruits from species like Annona reticulata are harvested for food. This traditional knowledge not only supports the dietary needs of the community but also emphasizes the role of these plants in local culture and practices, reflecting a deep-rooted relationship between the people and their environment.
Conclusion
The survey underscores the importance of documenting wild edibles and the ethnobotanical practices of indigenous communities, which are essential for biodiversity conservation and food security. The collaboration with local tribal people reveals the intricate knowledge that has been passed down through generations. Acknowledging and preserving this knowledge is vital not only for maintaining cultural identity but also for fostering sustainable practices that can benefit broader ecological conservation efforts. The authors express gratitude for the support received and underline the necessity for further research to enhance understanding of the wild edibles in the Kolli Hills and their potential applications.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the focus of the survey conducted in Kolli Hills?
The survey focuses on 25 species of wild edibles used by the Kollimalayalis in Kolli Hills, detailing their vernacular names and the specific plant parts utilized.
Where are the Kolli Hills located geographically?
Kolli Hills are part of the Eastern Ghats in Salem District, Tamil Nadu, positioned between latitudes 11°10' and 10°30'N and longitudes 78°15' and 78°30'E.
How was the data for wild edibles collected?
Data was collected through periodic visits, interactions with local tribal people, and consultation of herbarium specimens and recent floras for accurate species identification.
What types of plants are included in the survey?
The survey includes various plant families such as Mimosaceae, Amaranthaceae, and Solanaceae, detailing their edible parts like fruits, leaves, and stems used by local populations.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Preliminary survey of wild edibles of kolli hills of salem”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Rubu:
Rubu refers to a genus of plants in the Rosaceae family. In the context of wild edibles, the mention of Rubus ellipticus and Rubus niveus highlights the significance of these species in the dietary practices of the Kollimalayalis in Kolli Hills, illustrating the local utilization of wild fruits.
2) Soil:
Soil is the upper layer of the earth's surface where plants grow, crucial for agriculture and botany. In the Kolli Hills, soil types like red loamy and black play a role in supporting diverse plant species used by locals for food, indicating the interplay between geology and biodiversity.
3) Syzygium cumini:
Syzygium cumini, known as jamun or jambul, is a tree species whose fruits are consumed by the local population. This plant serves not only as a dietary source but also holds cultural significance among the Kollimalayalis, contributing to the biodiversity and rich edible flora of the Kolli Hills.
4) Lakshmi (Lakṣmī):
Lakshmi is referenced in the context of authorship, indicating one of the contributors to the study on wild edibles. The involvement of individuals with relevant expertise underscores the collaborative approach in documenting traditional knowledge and practices related to food sourcing in the Kolli Hills ecosystem.
5) Science (Scientific):
Science, as a systematic enterprise, encompasses the study of the natural world. In this context, it applies to the exploration of wild edibles, revealing traditional ecological knowledge. By documenting plant species, the researchers contribute to the understanding of sustainable practices and biodiversity conservation in the Kolli Hills.
6) Sarani (Saraṇi, Sharani, Śaraṇī, Śaraṇi, Saraṇī, Sāraṇi, Sāranī):
Sarani, in the context of the study, refers to a vernacular name for a wild edible plant. The identification of local names enhances understanding of traditional knowledge and agricultural practices among the Kollimalayalis, reflecting the integration of culture and biodiversity through the usage and cultivation of plants.
7) Garlic:
Garlic is a commonly used herb known for its culinary and medicinal properties. In the context of Kolli Hills, it may be included in chutneys made from native wild edibles, illustrating the incorporation of both cultivated and wild ingredients to enhance flavor and nutrition in local cuisine.
8) Botany:
Botany is the scientific study of plants, crucial for understanding ecosystems, medicinal use, and food sources. In this study, botany serves as the foundation for identifying edible species and exploring their roles in traditional diets, contributing to both sustainability and the conservation of plant biodiversity in Kolli Hills.
9) Rice (Ṛce):
Rice is a staple food for many cultures and is referenced as a grain substitute in chutneys made with certain wild edibles. This highlights the adaptability of local diets in Kolli Hills, showcasing how traditional practices blend cultivated staples with naturally occurring plants to create varied culinary experiences.
10) Soup:
Soup is a liquid dish, typically made by combining various ingredients such as vegetables, grains, or proteins. The reference to a 'stoloniferous tuber' used to make soup emphasizes the importance of wild edibles in local cuisine, showcasing culinary practices that utilize available resources for nourishment in traditional diets.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Preliminary survey of wild edibles of kolli hills of salem’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Tamilnadu, Traditional knowledge, Vernacular name, Voucher specimen, Botanical survey, Plant parts used, Biodiversity, Flora of Tamil Nadu, Department of Botany, KOLLI HILLS.