Ethnobotanical study of edible plants sold in three markets and implications for food security in the town of Daloa (Central-West Côte d'Ivoire)

An ethnobotanical study of edible plants was carried out in three markets in the town of Daloa. The ethnobotanical approach chosen consisted of visiting the tables of the women interviewed in order to send them a questionnaire. Only 5% of edible plant traders are men. Most of the women traders had not been to school. These investigations revealed that parts of 41 species, divided into 31 genera and 21 families, are sold. The Solonaceae family is the most widely sold on the three markets. Seven parts of edible plants are sold. Whithout, fruits, with a proportion of 38.30%, are the most widely sold. Some parts are eaten dry. Others are used fresh. The different parts of the plants are consumed in ten modes, according to the informants. Several leaves and seeds are eaten in sauce.