Abstract:

An extensive survey was carried out among ten ethnic groups in Jharkhand, Orissa and West Bengal of eastern India to document edible plants, which grow as weeds in their agricultural and non-agricultural fields. Data were collected through PRA exercises and interview schedules covering 8 districts, 10 community development blocks and 12 villages. The study identifies 43 species of weeds belonging to 36 genera and 26 families that are commonly consumed by the tribal population as per their availability. The habit, season as well as place of procurement and edible part of these plants have been discussed.