Ethnobotanical investigation of non-timber forest products: Insights from east Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh

The ethnobotanical exploration of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) in East Godavari District provides comprehensive insights into their extensive uses and significant contributions to local indigenous communities. Field investigations conducted across diverse habitats identified 85 species from 45 plant families, demonstrating remarkable botanical diversity. The study extensively documented traditional practices and diverse utilization patterns encompassing medicinal, nutritional, commercial, cultural, and religious purposes, underscoring the intricate relationship communities share with their surrounding ecosystems. Economic analyses highlighted certain key species, notably Madhuca longifolia, Diospyros melanoxylon, Tamarindus indica, and Phyllanthus emblica, which offer substantial financial returns, thereby significantly contributing to household incomes and rural economic stability. However, conservation assessments revealed critical vulnerabilities among economically vital species due to unsustainable harvesting, illegal extraction, and escalating habitat degradation, emphasizing urgent sustainability interventions. Detailed surveys also evaluated local awareness about sustainable harvesting practices, revealing considerable discrepancies between theoretical knowledge and practical application among community members. Despite high levels of general awareness regarding conservation needs, actual implementation of sustainable practices remains relatively low, suggesting that educational interventions and capacity-building efforts are imperative. The current investigation also highlights the essential role of indigenous ecological knowledge in guiding effective conservation policies and practices. By systematically documenting species usage, economic contributions, threats, and local perceptions, this research provides essential data supporting integrated conservation approaches. These findings advocate strongly for comprehensive, culturally sensitive, community-based resource management initiatives, which can effectively mitigate threats and ensure sustainable utilization of forest resources in East Godavari District.