Rich yet undocumented ethnopharmacological practices of socio-culturally diverse indigenous ethnic tribes of Arunachal Pradesh, India

Abstract

The use of wild edible mushrooms (WEM) for food and medicine is deeply rooted in the traditional knowledge systems of Arunachal Pradesh, yet remains undocumented, particularly in the Siang region. This study aims to bridge this gap by identifying frequently used WEM, documenting their usage and compiling associated indigenous knowledge. From April 2022 to January, 2025, 300 informants aged 25 to 83 years were interviewed. Data were analyzed using the cultural importance index (CI) and factor informant consensus (Fic) to assess the significance of WEM and the consistency of knowledge sharing. Results revealed profound ethnopharmacological wisdom among the Monpa and Galo tribes, with a folk taxonomy based on morphological traits, aroma and habitat. Seven mushroom species were catalogued, with Ophiocordyceps sinensis, Schizophyllum commune and Termitomyces microcarpus being the most commonly utilized O. sinensis had the highest CI (1.0), indicating its cultural importance. Over 99 % of the documented WEM were new records for culinary and medicinal uses in the region. Higher knowledge about WEM was found among females, elders and those with no formal education. This study highlights the importance of conserving and scientifically validating indigenous fungal knowledge. Future efforts should focus on cultivating WEM and educating locals to sustain traditional practices and biodiversity, in line with the Biological Diversity Act of India.