Traditional knowledge on wild food plants in Andhra Pradesh

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to document the traditional wild food plants used by tribal people in Andhra Pradesh. A total of 156 species were documented as wild plants used for food purposes. Among those species, 56 species are herbs followed by 55 trees, 27 shrubs and 18 climbers. Mostly, herbs are used as leafy vegetables. It has been observed that the traditional knowledge on wild food plants is on sharp decline. Unless efforts are made to educate the younger generations about their importance, it may be lost in near future. This type of study could contribute significantly in Government policies to improve food security in tribal areas, and in the improvement of wild vegetable status, whose potential as sources of nutrition is currently undervalued.