Ethnobotanical Survey of Wild Edible Plants of Tehsil Rajgarh, District Sirmaur, Himachal Pradesh (India)

Since ancient times, humanity has relied on Mother Nature to fulfill their fundamental needs. Early humans explored wild edible plants, assessed their suitability for consumption, and eventually began cultivating them. The present study was conducted in Tehsil Rajgarh of District Sirmaur, Himachal Pradesh. The extensive field trips were conducted from 2016 -2019. Ethnobotanical information on WEPs was gathered through interviews and group discussions with local farmers and elderly individuals. A total of 87 wild edible species representing 72 genera under 40 families have been enlisted from the study area. The most commonly consumed wild edible plants were herbs, with a total of 43 species, followed by shrubs (23 species), trees (19 species), and climbers (2 species). The fruits of 35 plant species, leaves of 29 species, roots of 3 species, seeds and flowers of 6 species each, tubers of 3 species, aerial parts of 5 species, pods and shoots of 2 species each, and fronds of 1 species consumed by inhabitants of the study area. These wild plants are rich in essential nutrients and phytochemicals. Encouraging the younger generation to use wild edible resources is essential for preserving traditional knowledge.