Nutritional Contribution by Wild Plants as Novel Food to the Ethnic Tribes of Arunachal Himalaya, India

Abstract

Nutritional value was determined for six wild edible plants namely, Polygonum runcinatum, Pilea bracteosa, Elatostema platyphyllum, Gynura bicolor, Plantago erosa and Diplazium esculentum which were widely consumed as vegetables by the ethnic tribes of Arunachal Pradesh, India. Proximate analysis revealed rich nutrient levels in all the six wild plants compared to the common vegetables. Moisture, protein and phosphorus content were highest in Polygonum runcinatum with lowest sodium content, whereas, Pilea bracteosa was rich in lysine and proline. Ash, calcium and magnesium content were highest in Elatostema platyphyllum and it was also rich carbohydrate, crude protein and fat with high energetic value. Crude fat, tryptophan and potassium content were highest in Gynura bicolor with rich lysine, proline and other minerals. Proline and sodium content was highest in Plantago erosa, whereas, Diplazium esculentum was richest in fibre and carbohydrate content fetching greatest energy value with rich minerals. All the six wild edible plants made a significant contribution to the nutraceutical requirements of the ethnic tribal communities of Arunachal Pradesh, India particularly tryptophan, magnesium, calcium and potassium as per the daily-recommended dietary allowances prescribed by the Indian Council of Medical Research.