Abstract

Comparative ethnobotanical survey was carried out in 10 local communities distributed in nine districts of western Uttar-Pradesh province of India. Interviews conducted during winter and summer of 2009-10 proved to be helpful in recording the indigenous knowledge of the study area. A total of 28 edible plant species collected were mostly consumed in this area. The low cost and almost no side effects of the ethnobotanical preparations made them adaptable for use by the local communities particularly curing various ailments affecting their livestock. Therefore documenting and preserving this indigenous knowledge is urgently needed for developing strategic management plans for conservation and utilization in a sustainable manner.

Key words: Edible plant species, ethnobotany, local communities, indigenous knowledge