Edible wild fruits of the indian thar desert: A review

Edible wild fruits have been in use since a long time ago. Rural/tribal people mainly depend on roots, leaves, stems, bark, resins, fruits and seeds for their survival in harsh conditions and in famine. However, the agricultural practices involving the production and marketing of EWFs on a commercial scale is limited. The main objective of this study was to explore ethnomedicinal and pharmacological activities of EWFs to meet increasing fruit/food demand of world population and create awareness among people to protect and conserve xerophytic flora. Data for the study was collected through frequent field visits and survey methods. The analysis revealed that plants produce obtained from Cucurbitaceae and Fabaceae plant family are more consumed; share 36% of EWFs studied followed by Amaranthaceae, Apocynaceae, Capparaceae, Meliaceae, Malvaceae, Rhamnaceae, and Salvadoraceae family. The finding suggests that serious efforts and action should be taken to protect and conserve local flora and fauna. Due to habitat destruction local flora and fauna has reached the verge of extinction. By this study, industry and medical professionals can be benefited from indigenous knowledge about these wild edible fruits and be able to synthesize new drugs and novel formulas for betterment of human health and address a range of current health concerns.