Forest Research: Open Access
Open Access
ISSN: 2168-9776
ISSN: 2168-9776
Tejashwini Gajurel*
Forests and forest resources are inextricably linked to humans and provide the sole means of subsistence in many places of the world. Forest products, particularly in emerging and undeveloped countries, serve as lifelines for the underprivileged. India is bestowed with a rich biodiversity and traditional knowledge systems. The Northeastern parts of India bordering internationally with Bangladesh, Bhutan China, Myanmar and Nepal are well known for their richness in bio resources and ethnic diversity having remarkable traditional knowledge systems. The minor or nontimber forest products, particularly the food and medicinal plants found abundantly, have the potential for livelihood improvement. A better understanding and awareness of the highly potent plants of the Northeastern region of India could help to save and better the lives of consumers. These resources could provide them with a substitute for pharmaceutical medicines and commercial nutrition. The current study was carried out to investigate the availability and significance of potent minor forest products in the livelihood of the local communities. Based on available information and data the results are presented. It has been found that the region harbors diversified minor forest produces in good numbers. A total of 50 species have been narrowed down based on the information currently available about their usage and significance. These species have been shown to be particularly supportive of nutrition and medicine, making them a viable alternative to synthetic pharmaceutical and nutraceutical products.
Published Date: 2025-01-09; Received Date: 2024-08-28