Under-utilized lesser-known wild edible plants of Tamil Nadu, India

The present study highlights the diversity of wild edible plants used by tribal and local communities in Tamil Nadu's phytogeographical regions, covering both the Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats. The ethnobotanical documentation includes 62 plant species across 36 families and 39 genera which are lesser-known wild edibles. The plants are categorized as 27 fruits, 26 leafy edibles, 3 tuberous edibles and 3 species of whole plants, stem and flower of single species each. These lesser-known wild edibles have significant potential but require further investigation to determine their nutritional value, potential for cultivation, agronomic practices, and propagation methods. Their sustainable conservation is also crucial to ensure their availability for future generations. This study sheds light on the importance of preserving traditional knowledge and biodiversity through scientific exploration.