MEDICINAL PLANTS CONSUMED BY SELECTED TRIBES OF SRIBHUMI DISTRICT (SOUTH ASSAM)

Abstract

The present study focuses on the identification, documentation, and exploration of medicinal plants traditionally consumed by certain tribes of Sribhumi district, Assam, in Northeast India. Through extensive field surveys and interactions with local knowledge holders, a total of 27 medicinal plant species were recorded, underscoring their cultural, nutritional, and therapeutic significance. These plants are directly consumed in various forms, either raw, cooked, or prepared as decoctions, and form an integral part of the traditional tribal diet. The indigenous use of such plants reflects a deep understanding of the local flora and its health-promoting properties, developed and refined over generations. However, in recent decades, the popularity and use of these non-conventional food resources have shown a marked decline due to lifestyle changes, reduced reliance on forest produce, and the increasing availability of market-based alternatives. This gradual loss of traditional dietary practices poses a risk not only to cultural heritage but also to biodiversity conservation. This study emphasizes the urgent need to document, preserve, and promote the use of these medicinal plants to ensure the continuity of this invaluable traditional knowledge. Detailed ethnobotanical data have been compiled, including scientific names, plant families, vernacular names, seasonal availability, edible parts, and modes of consumption. Such information can serve as a valuable resource for researchers, policymakers, and local communities in efforts to integrate these plants into modern dietary practices. Promoting their use may enhance nutritional security, support sustainable livelihoods, and strengthen the cultural identity of tribal communities in Sribhumi District.