Diversity, Geographical Distribution and Ethnobotanical Significance of Zingiberaceae in Odisha, India

Zingiberaceae species are integral to the cultural practices and livelihoods of rural and tribal communities in Odisha, Eastern India. However, these plants are neglected and underutilized due to limited awareness, poor domestication, and insufficient research attention. This study aims to examine the phytogeography, species diversity, ecological distribution, and ethnobotanical significance of Zingiberaceae in Odisha, with special emphasis on their conservation relevance. Systematic field surveys, herbarium consultations, and literature reviews were conducted across multiple habitats in Odisha for taxonomic documentation, and their distribution was analyzed at both local and global scales to establish phytogeographical affinities. Ethnobotanical knowledge was documented through semi-structured interviews with local informants and quantitatively assessed using four important indices. A total of 33 species representing 9 genera were recorded, with Curcuma L. showing the highest diversity (10 spp.) followed by Zingiber Mill. (8 spp.). Gingers of Odisha exhibited the highest phytogeographical affinity with Myanmar (86.21%), followed by Bangladesh (82.76%) and Thailand (75.86%). Ethnobotanical analysis revealed that nearly half of the species are primarily medicinal (48%), with rhizomes being the most exploited plant part (88%). Quantitative indices revealed strong correlations between frequently cited species and cultural importance (RFC–CI, r = 1.000; RI–CV, r = 0.922, p < 0.01). Cluster analysis identified three major ethnobotanical groups, with Zingiber zerumbet emerging as the most culturally and medicinally significant species. The study highlights the multifunctional value of Zingiberaceae in Odisha and identifies priority species that are at risk due to overharvesting and the need for community-based conservation strategies to safeguard wild Zingiberaceae populations and associated traditional knowledge.