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Phytoresources from North Cachar Hills of Assam-III : Edible plants sold at

Haflong market

Article in Indian Journal of Natural Products and Resources · March 2012

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Indian Journal of Natural Products and Resources
Vol. 3 (1), March 2012, pp. 84-109

Phytoresources from North Cachar Hills of Assam-III : Edible plants sold at

Haflong market
P Medhi1* and S K Borthakur2
1
Department of Botany, Haflong Govt College, Haflong-788 819, Assam, India
2
Department of Botany, Gauhati University, Guwahati-781 014, Assam
Received 10 February 2011; Accepted 4 July 2011

The hilly town Haflong is located at the foothill of Borail range at the elevation of 936.04 m above msl and
between 25° 11’ N latitude and 93° 11’ E longitude. The present paper deals with the extensive collection and study
(during October 2007 to January 2009) of the edible phytoresources sold mostly by the folk women in weekly market
at Haflong. Emphasis was mainly given to wild as well as landraces and local cultivars of the crop plants. The study
provides information on their botanical name, family, vernacular names, frequency, habit, biological status, plant
parts used, mode of use and also market rate of the plant resources observed. Study reveals that out of 254 plants/local
cultivars collected and identified belongs to 170 genera and 75 families. Biological status analysis recorded as:
primitive cultvar/jhum cultivar/cultivar (151), semi-wild/semi-domesticated (49), wild (45) and weed
(09) species/varieties of plants. A total of 49 edible species have also been recorded to be domesticated from the
study area.

Keywords: Edible plants, Folk women, Haflong market, North Cachar Hills, Phytoresources, Semi-domesticated plants, Tribes.

IPC code; Int. cl. (2011.01)  A61K 36/00, A23L 1/00, A23L 1/052, A23L 1/22

Introduction Maize in India3; 25 species from Arunachal

Haflong town, the district headquarter of North
Cachar Hills (now known as Dima Hasao) district
of Assam state has bottleneck communication
network and so also the people inhabiting the area
are largely secluded from market economy. So, the
makeshift weekly Saturday market of the Haflong
town is a significant socio-economic institution.
Again the market can also be considered as the
meeting hub for the relatives as well people of
different communities and depicts the rich socio-
cultural diversity of the area. The hill tribes have an
inseparable relation with forest in their daily life.
The consumption of wild plants is one of the
strategies, adopted by the local people for
sustenance, is intrinsically linked to their strong
traditional and cultural system and is inseparable.
They continuously include wild edibles to their
daily food intake and sales from the surplus add to
their income1.
Description on edible plants both cultivated and
wild from the Isle of Java, Indonesia2; Races of
_______________
*Correspondent author: E-mail: pramodmedhi@yahoo.com;
Phone: 03673 236292.
Pradesh4; 110 wild plants from Meghalaya5;
38 wild edible from Assam6; native food plants of
Northeastern India7; development of Horticulture in
North Cachar Hills8; some unreported uses from
North-Eastern India9; collection of multicrop
germplasm-327 from Nagaland10 and 403
accessions from Mizoram11 and 23 species and their
varieties of Citrus from North-eastern India12, etc.
has also been taken into account as current
literature.
Again, survey, documentation and publication
works on markets of Karbi Anglong13; Assam14
and Lall market of Gangtok15 has already been
done.
Study site
The sub-Himalayan hilly town Haflong is the
district head quarter of N.C. Hills (presently Dima
Hasao) and located at the foothill of Borail range at
the elevation of 936.04 m above msl and between
25° 11’ N latitude and 93°11’ E longitude (Fig. 1).
The different ethnic groups of the Indo Mongoloid
stock of race and their villages visited in and around
the Haflong town are:
 MEDHI & BORTHAKUR: EDIBLE PLANTS SOLD AT HAFLONG MARKET OF NORTH CACHAR HILLS
The Dimasas constitute the largest ethnic group in
N.C. Hills district. Dibarai, Dikrik, Dimalik razi and
Hojai are the oldest villages. The Zeme Nagas are
commonly known as Zemes. Lodhi basti, Saikam and
Michidui are nearest villages. The Rongmeis Naga
tribes are mainly concentrated in Tila basti
(Hagjer nagar) area of Haflong town.
All the above ethnic groups belong to
Tibeto-Burmese racial stock. The Hmars setup large
Fig. 1  Haflong town (Source: N.E.R. Institute of Water and
Land Management, Tezpur, Assam)
Plate 1  a- Dimasa, b- Zeme Naga, c-Pnar (Jaintia) folk women selling vegetables in the Haflong weekly market
85
villages known as Muolhoi and Moulveng just
adjascent to Haflong town. The Hrangkhols
concentrated in the Boro Robi and Lungkhok and
the Biates in Buoldora village, all are located near
by Haflong town are known as the Old-Kukis.
Again, the Jansens and the Thadous who are
concentrated in the Songpijang village are known
as the New-Kukis. The Sakacheps (Khelmas) and
Vaipheis are the smallest communities in district
and only few families sparingly distributed in
Haflong town. They belong to Chin Kuki Mizo
racial stocks of ethnic groups. The Jaintia (Pnars)
tribe inhabits in Jatinga village which is famous for
birds mistry suicidal point. They belong to the Mon
Khamer racial stock and follow the matrilineal
system. Again, the Karbis in Haflong are mainly
confined within the Karbi basti area16.
Materials and Methods
A survey has been done to documented the edible
plants and their products sold mostly by the folk
women of different ethnic communities (Plate 1 a-c)
in weekly market at Haflong during October 2007 to
January 2009. Emphasis was mainly given to wild as
well as land races and local cultivars of the edible
crop plants. Random population and/or individual
selection sampling has been done to collect the plant
germplasm and rest of the specimens were made into
herbarium following Jain & Rao (1967) method17
and later identified with the help of local flora and
available references. All the voucher specimens of
the study have been deposited in the herbarium of
Department of Botany, Gauhati University for future
reference and also some of the collected crop
germplasm accessions were submitted based on the
preparation of passport data to NBPGR Regional
Station, Meghalaya, India for multiplication towards
further conservation.
86 INDIAN J NAT PROD RESOUR, MARCH 2012
Vernacular names, used plant parts, method of
preparation, traditional knowledge and market rate
of the plant resources were recorded and verified
carefully from vegetable vendors of market, by
assistance of local informants and also visiting the
ethnic villages nearby Haflong town.
The frequency of species occurrence of the
collected sample species (both the traditionally
cultivated and wild grown) collected from market
has been recorded during the preparation of
passport data following the standard guidelines of
NBPGR descriptor18. The ethnic villages in and
around Haflong town as mentioned under the
sub-heading ‘study site’ were considered as
sampling unit/area for recording the same. The
frequency of occurrence has been divided into:
abundant, frequent, occasional and rare, based on
the availability of the living species recorded in the
visited villages and its adjoining forests. If a
recorded species occurs in all the sampling
area/unit then it is considered as abundant. When a
species occurs in most of the the sampling area/unit
but not in all it is frequent. Thus, when occurs in
few sampling units it is occasional. Again, when a
species rarely found in the sampling areas then the
species is considered as rare.
Again, the biological status of the recorded
species has been verified in the sampling
areas/villages visited and categorized into wild,
semi-wild/semi-domesticated, cultivar/Jhum
cultivar and weeds. Wild-when found in wild
habitat; semi-wild/semi-domesticated-a wild plant
when found both in wild habitat as well as
cultivated also; cultivar/Jhum cultivar-only the
cultivated plants that includes local cultivars/land
races and the weeds-wild herbaceous plants grown
naturally along with cultivated crops were
considered.
Results
A total of 254 species/varieties or local cultivars of
plants and some of their products have been recorded
during survey and the findings can be broadly
categorized into three groups given below:
(A) Eaten cooked: Total 191 species/varieties that
includes; Leafy vegetables etc.-58 (Table 1); Fruits
and seeds-Cucurbits-24 (Table 2a); Fruits and seeds-
Legumes/Pods-21 (Table 2b); other fruits and seeds-
22 (Table 2c); Spices and condiments-33 (Table 3);
Edible tubers-24 (Table 4) and Wild edible
mushrooms-09 (Table 5).
(B). Eaten raw: Total 48 species/varieties that
includes; Fruits and seeds (Citrus fruits)-10
(Table 6a.); other fruits and seeds-38 (Table 6.b.).
(C). Cereals: Total 15 species/varieties that includes
either eaten cooked or raw; also both (Table 7).
Present investigation reveals the following
numerical analysis from the total recorded species/
varieties of plants as given in Table 8a-d:
Discussion
The above investigation is only a small part of the
phytoresources occured in the Haflong and its
surrounding area. One of the interesting findings from
the present investigation is that the crop variability
within a species and most of them are local
cultivar/landraces of some crops like Maize, Legumes
and Pulses, Chillies and Brinjals, etc. are the main.
So, further documentation is necessary for proper
monitoring, management and conservation.
The domestication of plants is the first step
towards a full-fledged agricultural economy. A plant
is said to be domesticated when it can grow and
reproduce with human intervention. Plants have been
manipulated for preffered characteristics to grow the
plant as crops in subsequent years. There have been
enormous scope for studies to identify genes
associated with crop domestication and evolution to
provide a clear understanding of the dynamics of
cultivation practices by human being19. Borthakur
et al20 mentioned about the semi-domestication of
plants in the works published on Traditional House
gardens of Assam. Vishnu Mittre21 elaborated the
processes of plant domestication in the Indian
subcontinent. Scarcelli et al22, reported the
domestication of Dioscorea sp. by farmers in Benin
(West Africa) and the results showed the use of wild
plants by farmers in their domestication process.
Chhetri23 explored 62 wild plant species under
59 genera belonging to 44 families domesticated by
Khasis, Garos and Jaintias of Meghalaya.
Present investigation recorded 49 species of semi-
wild/semi-domesticated plants (Table 9) having food
and/or medicinal value i.e. wild plants found both
under cultivation in jhum fields and in homestead area
but also found to be grown in wild habitats. The
ethnic people of the area domesticate such plants for
easy access and use of the plant material in day to day
life instead of going to the forest or jungle. The
recorded semi-domesticated plants and the families
they belong are given in Table 9.
 MEDHI & BORTHAKUR: EDIBLE PLANTS SOLD AT HAFLONG MARKET OF NORTH CACHAR HILLS 87

Table 1  Leafy vegetables, etc. Edible plants sold at Haflong market:

(A).Eaten cooked:
S. No. Coll. no. Botanical name/ Vernacular Frequency Habit Biological Parts used/Mode Market rate
/I.C.no. Family name status of use (Rs.)
1 PM-220 Abelmoschus Thakhlao Abundant Herb Jhum Young shoot- Rs.5/bundle of
manihot (Linn.) maikhri Cultivar Vegetable about 250g
Medic. gajao(DI),Vai
/Malvaceae an thur asen
(HM)
2 PM-221 Alternanthera Kuang kua (MI) Occasional Herb Weed Young shoot- Rs.5/bundle of
sessiles Vegetable about 250g
Br.Prodr./
Amaranthaceae
3 PM-222 Amaranthus Khemsa gajao Frequent Herb Cultivar Young shoot - Rs.5/bundle of
gangeticus Linn. (DI), Inh Vegetable about 250g
syn. A. muntiek (ZE)
tricolor/Amaran
thaceae
4 PM-223 A.spinosus Khutra (DI) Frequent Herb Weed Young shoot - Rs.5/bundle of
Linn./ Vegetable about 250gm
Amaranthaceae
5 PM-224 A. viridis Linn./ Mata Frequent Herb Weed Young shoot - Rs.5/bundle of
Amaranthaceae (DI),Vaihme Vegetable about 250g
(HM),
Inhmuntiek (ZE)
6** PM-225 Andrographis Chirota (DI/PN) Occasional Herb Cultivar Plant juice- Rs.5/ bundle
paniculata stomach tonic/ of about 50g
Nees/ mixed with
Acanthaceae vegetable
7 PM-226 Aralia armata Lingdon Rare Shrub Wild Young shoot - Rs.5/bundle of
(Wall) Seem. ex (KU),Ture/Saifok Vegetable about 5 shoots
Kurz.Syn. A. (ZE)
montana Bl./
Araliaceae
8 PM-227 Bacopa Brahmi (NE) Occasional Herb Cultivar Whole plant- Rs.5/bundle of
monnieri (Linn.) Vegetable about 100g
Wettst./
Scrophulariaceae
9 PM-228 Bambusa Wa mia (DI), Occasional Large Semi Shoot- Rs.10-15/Kg
balcooa Roxb./ Hepai/Pum (ZE) grass Wild Vegetable/ferme
Poaceae nted chatni
10 PM-229 Basella alba Thakhrai guphu Frequent Climber Cultivar Leaf/ Shoot- Rs.5/bundle of
Linn. (DI), Maghi Vegetable about 6 shoots
/Basellaceae (ZE)
11 PM-230 B. rubra Linn./ Thakhrai gajao Frequent Climber Cultivar Leaf/ Shoot- Rs.5/bundle of
Basellaceae (DI), Maghi Vegetable about 6 shoots
(ZE)
12 PM-231 Begonia Theidon (HM), Occasional Herb Wild Leaf/ Shoot- Rs.5/bundle of
palmata D. Don/ Mping (ZE) Vegetable about 10
Begoniaceae shoots
13 PM-232 B. roxburghii Sekhupdon Occasional Herb Wild Leaf/ Shoot- Rs.5/bundle of
DC./ (HR), Alumikri Vegetable/ about 10
Begoniaceae (DI), Mping antidysenteric shoots
(ZE)
14 PM-233 Blumea lacera Mugongreng/ Abundant Shrub Semi- Leaf-Vegetable Rs.5/bundle of
DC. syn. B. Gangrima (DI), wild (mostly about 10
balsamifera Anra mang preferred with shoots
(Linn.)DC. (HM), Peau Brinjal)
/Asteraceae (ZE)
(Contd.)
88 INDIAN J NAT PROD RESOUR, MARCH 2012

Table 1  Leafy vegetables, etc. Edible plants sold at Haflong market: contd
(A).Eaten cooked:
S. No. Coll. no. Botanical name/ Vernacular Frequency Habit Biological Parts used/Mode Market rate
/I.C.no. Family name status of use (Rs.)
15* PM-234 Brassica Huoirruoi Frequent Herb Cultivar Leaf/ young Rs.5/bundle of
campestris (HM), Ankam fruit-Vegetable about 250g
Linn./ (KU), Nzeyicheu
Brassicaceae (ZE)
16* PM-235 B. alba H.f. & Yaolaisa guphu Occasional Herb Cultivar Leaf/ young Rs.5/bundle of
T./Brassicaceae (DI) fruit-Vegetable about 250g
17** PM- B. juncea Czern. Antrum (HM), Abundant Herb Cultivar Leaf-Vegetable Rs.5/bundle of
75/5608 & Coss. var. Laipatta (NE) about 250g
33 cuneifolia
Roxb./
Brassicaceae
18** PM- B. juncea Trampui Frequent Herb Primitive Leaf-Vegetable Rs.5/bundle of
78/5608 (Linn.) Czern. & /Antram (HM), Cultivar (Purplish leaf about 250g
36 Coss./ Jenum (PN), petiole/vein)
Brassicaceae Nzeyi (ZE)
19* PM-236 B. nigra Koch./ Yaolaisa gisim Occasional Herb Cultivar Leaf/ young Rs.5/bundle of
Brassicaceae (DI), Huoirruoi fruit-Vegetable about 250g
(HM), Ankam
(KU), Nzeyicheu
(ZE)
20 PM-237 Bryophyllum Tenga patta Occasional Herb Cultivar Fleshy leaf- Rs.5/12 leaves
pinnatum Kurz (NE) stomach tonic
/Crassulaceae
21 PM-238 Calamus rotang Raigong Occasional Lianes Wild Soft pith- Rs.20/stick of
Linn./Arecaceae (DI),Tingdon Vegetable/Chatni 3-4 ft.
(HM), Heart
(ZE)
22 PM-239 Centella Mikharing (DI), Occasional Herb Weed Entire Rs.5/bundle of
asiatica (Linn.) Lambak (HM), plant/Leaf- about 100g
Urban syn. Naulai (KU), Vegetable/
Hydrocotyle Manimuni (NE), Chatni
asiatica Linn./ Krimbua (ZE)
Apiaceae
23 PM-240 Chenopodium Dauthulai (DI), Occasional Herb Weed Entire Rs.5/bundle of
album Linn./ Jhilmil sak (NE) plant/Leaf- about 150g
Chenopodiaceae Vegetable/
Chatni
24 PM-241 Chonemorpha Ankhapui Frequent Climber Wild Leaf-Vegetable Rs.5/bundle of
macrophylla (Large) about 250g
G.Don/ &Ankhate
Apocynaceae (Small) (HM),
Ankhapi (KU),
Johr khithong
(PN)
25 PM-242 Clerodendrum Mismau (DI), Abundant Shrub Semi- Leaf-Vegetable/ Rs.5/bundle of
colebrookianum Anphui (HM) wild hypertension about 250g
Walp./ medicine
Verbenaceae
26 PM-243 Corchorus Morapat (DI), Occasional Under Cultivar Leaf-Vegetable Rs.5/bundle of
olitorius Linn./ Vaizahrui (HM) shrub about 250g
Tiliaceae
27* PM-244 Colocasia Thagong (DI) Frequent Herb Jhum Fresh leaf Rs.10/bundle
esculenta Cultivar petiole- of about 500g
(Linn.) Schott./ Vegetable
Araceae
(Contd.)
 MEDHI & BORTHAKUR: EDIBLE PLANTS SOLD AT HAFLONG MARKET OF NORTH CACHAR HILLS 89

Table 1  Leafy vegetables, etc. Edible plants sold at Haflong market: contd
(A).Eaten cooked:
S. No. Coll. Botanical name/ Vernacular Frequency Habit Biological Parts used/Mode Market rate
no. Family name status of use (Rs.)
/I.C.no.
28 PM-245 Crassocephalum Impingi (ZE) Occasional Herb Wild Leaf-Vegetable Rs.5/bundle of
crepidloides about 250g
(Benth.) Moore/
Asteraceae
29 PM-246 Croton caudatus Agurdukha (DI), Frequent Under Wild Leaf Juice- Rs.10/ Half
Geisel/ Ran-lung- shrub Stomach tonic/ (½) litre of
Schrophulariaceae damdoi Anticancer/ juice
(HM/MI) Tongue
medicine
30 PM-247 Diplazium Daomalai (DI), Frequent Herb Wild Leaf-Vegetable Rs.5/bundle of
esculentum Dheki sak (NE), about 500g
(Retz.)Sw./ Nchubua (ZE)
Polypodiaceae
31 PM-248 Ensete superba Thaliphang Occasional Large Cultivar Fresh/Dry leaf Rs.5/bundle of
(Roxb.) Chees./ yasong (DI), Sai herb sheath- about 250g
Musaceae suo mot (HM), Vegetable
Dangdibei (ZE)
32 PM-249 Eurrya Chizou Abundant Tree Semi Leaf cooked Rs.5/bundle of
acuminata DC./ (HM/KU), Wild with Pork meat about 500g
Theaceae Misimbua (ZE)
33 PM-250 Gnetum gnemon Annel (HM), Rare Tree Wild Leaf-Vegetable Rs.5/bundle of
Linn./Gnetaceae Keigi (ZE) about 500g
34* PM-251 Hibiscus Thakhlao Rare Under Jhum Young Rs.5/bundle of
acelosella maikhri gajao shrub Cultivar fruit/Leaf- about 350g
Welw. ex Hiern (DI) Vegetable
syn. H.
eetveldeanus De
Wild & T.
Durand/Malvaceae
35* PM- Hibiscus Thakhlao Frequent Under Jhum Fruit/Leaf- Rs.5/bundle of
125/566 sabdariffa Linn./ maikhri (DI), shrub Cultivar Vegetable, about 350g
709 Malvaceae Vai an thur asen Seeds-Awmjang
(HM), Kiae (DI) dry fish
(ZE) fermented
Chatni
36 PM-252 H. sabdariffa Thakhlao Occasional Under Jhum Leaf-Vegetable Rs.5/bundle of
Linn./ maikhri (DI),Vai shrub Cultivar about 350g
Malvaceae an thur avar pa
(HM), Nkiaie
(ZE)
37 PM-253 Ipomoea Dine thamunglai Occasional Creeper Aquatic Young shoot- Rs.5/bundle of
aquatica Forsk./ (DI), Kolom sak weed Vegetable about 500g
Convolvulaceae (NE)
38** PM-256 Lactuca sp./ Lettuce (PN) Rare Herb Cultivar Leaf-Vegetable Rs.10/bundle
Asteraceae of about 350g
39 PM- Lasia spinosa Shidabu/Thatha Occasional Herb Wild Young leaf- Rs.5/bundle of
170/569 Linn./Araceae khlao (DI), Vegetable about 400g
110 Changhrat
(HM)
40* PM- Lathyrus sativus Khesari (NE) Occasional Herb Cultivar Shoot/Seeds- Rs.5/bundle of
255 Linn./ Fabaceae Vegetable about 250g
41 PM-254 Leucus linifolia Doron (NE) Occasional Herb Weed Young shoot- Rs.5/bundle of
Spreng./ Vegetable about 400g
Lamiaceae
(Contd.)
90 INDIAN J NAT PROD RESOUR, MARCH 2012

Table 1  Leafy vegetables, etc. Edible plants sold at Haflong market: contd
(A).Eaten cooked:
S. No. Coll. no. Botanical name/ Vernacular Frequency Habit Biological Parts used/Mode Market rate
/I.C.no. Family name status of use (Rs.)
42 PM-257 Melocanna Wa mia (DI), Abundant Large Semi- Shoot- Rs.10-15/Kg
buccifera Kaucheu (ZE) grass wild Vegetable/ferme
(Roxb.) Kurz/ nted Chatni
Poaceae
43 PM-258 Melocalamus Washim mia Occasional Large Semi- Shoot-Vegetable Rs.10-15/Kg
compactiflorus (DI) grass wild
Benth./ Poaceae
44 PM-259 Melia Neem (DI) Occasional Tree Cultivar Leaf- Rs.5/bundle of
azadirachta roasted/fried about 250g
Linn. =
Azadirachta
indica A. Juss./
Meliacceae
45 PM-497 Micromelum Think-pui (HM) Rare Shrub Wild Young shoot Rs.10/bundle
pubescens (Large) with
Blume/ inflorescences
Rutaceae eaten cooked as
vegetable
46* PM-261 Paederia foetida Saonkiphu (DI), Frequent Climber Wild Leaf-Vegetable Rs.5/bundle of
Linn./ Voi hnam zai (Also used as about 500g
Rubiaceae (HM), Hebeheu- gastric
ria (ZE) Medicine)
47 PM-262 Piper betle Mithi (DI), Frequent Climber Jhum Fresh Leaf- Rs.10/ bundle
Linn./ Panpatta (PN) Cultivar Masticator of 20 leaves
Piperaceae
48 PM-263 Polygonum Mikhri lai (DI), Occasional Climber Wild Leaf -Vegetable Rs.5/bundle of
perfoliatum Heganturia (ZE) about 300g
Linn./
Polygonaceae
49 PM-264 Portulaca Barthoslai (DI), Occasional Creeper Weed Young shoot- Rs.5/bundle of
oleracea Linn./ Inrainuthei Vegetable about 300g
Portulucaceae (HM)
50** PM-265 Raphanus Mula (DI), Frequent Herb Cultivar Leaf/tap root- Rs.5/bundle of
sativus Linn./ Ankam-tilnei Vegetable about 500g
Brassicaceae (KU), Mula sak
(NE), Njeiyi-
pereuteube (ZE)
51 PM-266 Rhynchotechum Mimalai (DI), Abundant Under Wild Leaf-Vegetable Rs.5/bundle of
ellipticum Telhlep shrub about 10
(Wall.ex Dietr.) (HM/KU), shoots
A. DC./ Endroigi (ZE)
Gesneriaceae
52 PM-267 Rumex Suka sak Occasional Herb Cultivar Young shoot- Rs.10/bundle
vesicarius (AS/NE) Vegetable of about 250g
Linn./Polygonac
eae
53 PM-268 Sarchochlamys Mishaigi (DI), Abundant Under Semi- Young leaf- Rs.5/bundle of
pulcherrima Lengo (HM), shrub wild Vegetable about 300g
(Roxb.) Gaud./ Endaugi (ZE) preferred with
Urticaceae Banana
inflorescence
54 PM-269 Sesbania Bokphool (AS/ Occasional Tree Cultivar Flower- Rs.5/ten fresh
grandiflora NE) Vegetable flowers
Pers./Fabaceae

(Contd.)
 MEDHI & BORTHAKUR: EDIBLE PLANTS SOLD AT HAFLONG MARKET OF NORTH CACHAR HILLS 91

Table 1  Leafy vegetables, etc. Edible plants sold at Haflong market: contd
(A).Eaten cooked:

S. No. Coll. no. Botanical name/ Vernacular Frequency Habit Biological Parts used/Mode Market rate
/I.C.no. Family name status of use (Rs.)
55 PM-270 Solanum nigrum Hagrani Occasional Herb Weed Young shoot- Rs.5/bundle of
Linn./ kimkhalai (DI) Vegetable about 350g
Solanaceae
56 PM-271 S. spirale Roxb./ Kanarengma Occasional Herb Semi- Young shoot- Rs.5/bundle of
Solanaceae (DI), Nkabua wild Vegetable about 350gm
(ZE)
57 PM- 76/ Spilanthes Samberma (DI), Frequent Herb Semi- Leaf-Vegetable Rs.5/bundle of
560834 acmella Linn. Ansa Tlang wild (Inflo. used for about 500g
var. oleracea (HM), Klungbua Tooth ache also)
Clarke/ (ZE)
Asteraceae
58 PM-272 S. acmella Linn. Samberma (DI), Frequent Herb Wild Leaf-Vegetable Rs.5/bundle of
var. paniculata Ansa Tlang (Inflo. used for about 500g
Clarke/ (HM), Klungbua Tooth ache also)
Asteraceae (ZE)

Table 2a  Fruits and Seeds-Cucurbits

S. No. Coll. no./ Botanical name/ Vernacular name Frequency Habit Biological Parts used/ Market
I.C.no. Family status Mode of use rate
(Rs.)
59 PM-120/ Benincasa Khaukhluhaba Abundant Climber Jhum Fruit- Rs.15/
566704123/ hispida (Thunb.) (DI), Tlang maibal Cultivar Vegetable one fruit
566707 Cogn./ (HM), Umpong
Cucurbitaceae (KU), Maphune
(ZE)
60 PM-274 Citrullus Thaisim hagong Occasional Creeper Jhum Fruit- Rs.20/
colocynthis (DI),Tlang donkho Cultivar Vegetable/ea one fruit
Schrad./ (HM) ten raw (Big,
Cucurbitaceae long, dark
green fruit)
61** PM-129/ C. lanatus Thaisim hagong Occasional Creeper Jhum Fruit- Rs.10/
566713 Schrad./ (DI), Tlang Cultivar Vegetable/ea one fruit
Cucurbitaceae donkho (HM) ten raw
(Small, dark
green fruit)
62** PM-273 C. vulgaris Thaisim sipra Occasional Creeper Jhum Fruit- Rs.15/
Schrad. ex Eckl (DI), Phai donkho Cultivar Vegetable/ea one fruit
& Zeyh/ (HM) ten raw
Cucurbitaceae (rounded,
light green
fruit)
63* PM-275 Cucurbita Khaukhlumunglai Frequent Climber Jhum Young Rs.15/
maxima Duch. ex (DI), Mai Cultivar Shoot/Fruit- one fruit
Lam./ (HM/MI), Vegetable
Cucurbitaceae Maichang (KU),
Ro mai (HR),
Maghi (ZE)
64* PM-121/ C. moschata Khaukhlumunglai Frequent Climber Jhum Young Rs.15/
566705 Duchesne/ (DI), Mai Cultivar Shoot/Fruit- one fruit
Cucurbitaceae (HM/MI), Ro mai Vegetable
(HR), Maichang
(KU), Maghi (ZE)

(Contd.)
92 INDIAN J NAT PROD RESOUR, MARCH 2012

Table 2a  Fruits and Seeds-Cucurbitscontd

S. No. Coll. no./ Botanical name/ Vernacular name Frequency Habit Biological Parts used/ Market
I.C.no. Family status Mode of use rate
(Rs.)
65 PM-276 C. pepo Linn./ Khaukhluhaba Occasional Climber Cultivar Fruit- Rs.15/
Cucurbitaceae (DI), Maibal Vegetable one fruit
(HM/MI), Unpong
(KU), Maphune
(ZE)
66** PM- 82/ Cucumis melo Thaisim gibi (DI), Occasional Creeper Jhum Fruit- Rs.15/
560840 Linn./ Vai fangma (HM) Cultivar Vegetable/ one fruit
Cucurbitaceae eaten raw
67** PM-277 C. sativus Linn./ Thaisim Frequent Climber Cultivar Fruit- Rs.15/
Cucurbitaceae (Thaisimmuri- Vegetable/ Kg
white) (DI), Tlang eaten raw
fangma (HM),
Changmai (KU),
Sikhia (PN),
Ngaine (ZE)
68** PM-278 C. trigonus Thaisim (DI), Rare Climber Semi-wild Fruit- Rs.15/
Roxb./ Fangma tial (HM) Vegetable/ Kg
Cucurbitaceae eaten raw
69 PM-279 Cyclanthera Patal (PN) Rare Climber Cultivar Fruit- Rs.20/
pedata Schrad./ Vegetable Kg
Cucurbitaceae
70 PM- 81/ Gymnopetalum Dukhathai (DI), Occasional Climber Wild Fruit- Rs. 20/
560839 cochinchinensis Ram berul (HM) Vegetable Kg
(Lour.) Kurz/
Cucurbitaceae
71** PM-280 Hodgesonia Khaukhluthaibai Frequent Climber Wild Seeds/Endosp Rs.5/
macrocarpa (Bl.) (DI), Kha um erm five
Cogn./ (HM), Nsui chi seeds
Cucurbitaceae (ZE)
72 PM-122/ Lagernaria Milau (DI), Um Frequent Climber Cultivar Fruit- Rs.15/
566706 siceraria (HM/ KU), Teurau Vegetable one fruit
(Molina) (ZE)
Standley/
Cucurbitaceae
73 PM-282 Luffa acutangula Pronthai (DI), Frequent Climber Jhum Fruit- Rs. 15/
(Linn.) Roxb./ Jinga (NE/PN) Cultivar Vegetable Kg
Cucurbitaceae
74 PM-281 L. cylindrica Phronthai (DI), Frequent Climber Semi-wild Fruit- Rs. 10/
(Linn.) M.Roem./ Thenpon (KU), Vegetable Kg
Cucurbitaceae Bhol (NE),
Ndeumpi (ZE)
75 PM-283 Melothria Kunduli (AS/NE), Occasional Climber Semi-wild Fruit/young Rs.10/
heterophylla Hagrani shoot- Kg
(Lour.) Cogn./ thaisummuri (DI) Vegetable
Cucurbitaceae
76 PM-284 Momordica Hangathai (DI), Frequent Climber Jhum Fruit- Rs. 20/
cochinchinensis Jankha Cultivar Vegetable Kg
(Lour.) Spreng./ (HM/KU/VA),
Cucurbitaceae Nraupui-chi (ZE)
77 PM-285 M. charantia Gala (DI), Kagai Frequent Climber Cultivar Young Fruit- Rs. 20/
Linn./ chi (ZE) Vegetable Kg
Cucurbitaceae

(Contd.)
 MEDHI & BORTHAKUR: EDIBLE PLANTS SOLD AT HAFLONG MARKET OF NORTH CACHAR HILLS 93

Table 2a  Fruits and Seeds - Legumes/Podscontd

S. No. Coll. no. Botanical name/ Vernacular name Frequency Habit Biological Parts Market
/I.C.no. Family status used/Mode rate
of use (Rs.)
78 PM-130/ M. charantia var. Hagrani Frequent Climber Semi-Wild Young Fruit- Rs. 5/
566714 muricata (Willd.) gala/Gala-khasiba Vegetable 250g.
H.L.Chakravarty/ (DI), Tlang
Cucurbitaceae Chankha (HM),
Jankha (MI),
Chankha hna
(HR), Kagai chi
(ZE)
79 PM-287 Sechium edule Toluteipi (DI), Abundant Climber Cultivar Fruit- Rs.15/
(Jacq.) Sw./ Iskos (HM/PN), Vegetable Kg
Cucurbitaceae Khaugui (KU)
80 PM-288 Trichosanthes Berul (HM), Frequent Climber Jhum Fruit- Rs.15/
anguina Linn./ Sesenda (NE) Cultivar Vegetable Kg
Cucurbitaceae
Table 2b  Fruits and Seeds - Legumes/Pods
81 PM-289 Acacia Bairithai (DI), Frequent Tree Semi-wild Fruit- Rs.10/
farnesiana Zongta te (HM), Vegetable/ bundle
(Linn.) Willd. Nkampi-chibe Dry fish of 10
Mimosaceae (ZE) chatni fruits
82* PM-290 A. pinnata (Linn.) Suji (DI), Khang Occasional Lianes Semi-wild Young Rs.5/
Willd./ muk (HM), shoot/Tender bundle
Mimosaceae Tingchi-heu (ZE) pods- of about
Vegetable/ 250 g
Dry fish chatni
83* PM-291 Bauhinia Vaibe (HM) Occasional Tree Wild Young Fruit Rs.5/
acuminata Linn./ & shoot- bundle
Caesalpiniaceae Vegetable of about
500 g
84** PM- 64/ Cajanus cajan Betleng (HM), Frequent Shrub Cultivar Tender pods Rs.
560822 (Linn.) Huth/ Belhang (KU), /Seeds- 20/Kg.
Fabaceae Sewpi (ZE) Vegetable

85 PM- 70/ Canavalia Sobai dao yiung Rare Climber Semi-wild/ Tender pods Rs.10/
560828 ensiformis DC./ (DI), Fangra Jhum /Seeds- four
Fabaceae anzam chi (HM), Cultivar Vegetable fruits
Samkhra (HR),
Kangianeteupi
(ZE)

86 PM- 69/ C. gladiata Naga sem (DI), Occasional Undersh Semi-wild/ Tender pods Rs.10/
560827 (Jacq.) DC./ Fangra anzam rub Jhum /Seeds- five
Fabaceae nochi (HM), Tua Cultivar Vegetable fruits
(PN), Namtaipee
(ZE)
87 PM- 66/ Dolichos lablab Sbai maishing Abundant Climber Jhum Tender pods Rs. 20/
560824 Linn./ Fabaceae (DI), Bepui Cultivar /Seeds- Kg
(HM/MI) Vegetable

88 PM- Glycine max Bekan (HM) Occasional Undersh Jhum Seeds- Rs.10/
63/560821 (Linn.) Merrill/ rub Cultivar Bekanthu 100g
Fabaceae (Fermented
chatni)
(Contd.)
94 INDIAN J NAT PROD RESOUR, MARCH 2012

Table 2b  Fruits and Seeds - Legumes/Podscontd

S. No. Coll. no. Botanical name/ Vernacular name Frequency Habit Biological Parts Market
/I.C.no. Family status used/Mode rate
of use (Rs.)
89 PM-292 Lablab purpureus Sbaithai (DI), Frequent Climber Jhum Tender pods Rs.
(Linn.) Sweet/ Bepui (HM/MI) Cultivar /Seeds- 20/Kg
Fabaceae Vegetable
90* PM-293 Moringa oleifera Shorjona Frequent Tree Cultivar Young Rs.
Lamk./ (DI),Thingbe leaf/Fruit- 15/Kg
Moringaceae (HM) Vegetable
91** PM-294 Pachyrrizus Sbai kalendre Rare Climber Cultivar Young Rs.
erosus Rich/ (DI), Uisulbe Pods/Seeds- 15/Kg
Fabaceae (HM) Vegetable
and tuber
edible
92 PM-295 Parkia Bairithai (DI), Frequent Tree Semi Wild Young Rs.10/
roxburghii G. Zongta (HM/KU), Pods/Seeds- four
Don/Mimosaceae Nkampi (ZE) Vegetable fruits
93* PM-297 Phaseolus Behna/ Beloi Frequent Climber Jhum Leaf- Rs.5/
lunatus Linn./ (HM), Taipee (ZE) Cultivar Vegetable bundle
Fabaceae and seeds of about
edible 350 g
94 PM-296 P. mungo Linn./ Matimah (AS), Occasional Herb Jhum Legume Rs. 25/
Fabaceae Phaibe chin (HM) Cultivar seeds-Curry Kg
95 PM- 65/ P. radiatus Linn./ Sbaiha (DI), Occasional Herb Jhum Legume Rs. 30/
560823 Fabaceae Bechin (HM) Cultivar seeds-Curry Kg
96 PM-298 P. vulgaris Linn./ Sbai (DI), Frequent Herb Jhum Tender Pods- Rs. 30/
Fabaceae Behnoisun (HM) Cultivar Vegetable Kg
97** PM-299 Pisum sativum Matar (AS/NE), Frequent Herb Jhum Young Rs. 30/
var. arvense Tuirongbe (HM) Cultivar shoot/Tender Kg
Linn./ Fabaceae pods/Seeds-
Vegetable
98 PM-171/ Psophocarpus Sbai daograng Occasional Climber Jhum Young Pods- Rs.5/
569111 tetragonolobusD (DI), Cultivar Vegetable, 250 g
C./ Fabaceae Betlanei/Samporo preferred
ng (HM) with dry fish
99** PM-300 Vigna sinensis Sbaithai (DI), Abundant Climber Jhum Young Pods- Rs. 25/
Endl./ Fabaceae Tlangbe/Besei/Bel Cultivar Vegetable Kg
oi (HM)
100 PM-67/ V. umbellata Sbaithai (DI), Occasional Herb Jhum Young Pods- Rs. 25/
560825 (Thunb.) Ohwi & Bething (HM) Cultivar Vegetable, Kg
H.Ohashi/Fabaceae Seeds-Curry
101 PM-68/ V. unguiculata Sbaithai (DI), Occasional Climber Jhum Seeds- Rs. 30/
560826 (Thunb.) Ohwi & Bething (HM), Cultivar Vegetable/ Kg
Ohashi/ Fabaceae Hera pi (ZE) curry
Table 2c  Other fruits, seeds and inflorescences, etc. contd
S. No. Coll. no. / Botanical name/ Vernacular name Frequency Habit Biological Parts Market
I.C.no. Family status used/Mode rate
of use (Rs.)
102 PM-79/ Abelmoschus Pahari Bendi (DI), Frequent Under- Jhum Fruit- Rs.25/
560837. esculentus (Linn.) Uisul hme (HM), shrub Cultivar Vegetable Kg
128/ Moench/ Borsomhme (MI),
566712 Malvaceae Bindi (ZE)
103** PM-301 Carica papaya Goiphol (DI), Frequent Shrub Cultivar Fruit- Rs.20/
Linn./ Caricaceae Thing phangma Vegetable Kg
(HM), Thing
changmai (KU),
Bangai chi (ZE)
(Contd.)
 MEDHI & BORTHAKUR: EDIBLE PLANTS SOLD AT HAFLONG MARKET OF NORTH CACHAR HILLS 95

Table 2c  Other fruits, seeds and inflorescences, etc. contd

S. No. Coll. no. / Botanical name/ Vernacular name Frequency Habit Biological Parts Market
I.C.no. Family status used/Mode rate
of use (Rs.)
104** PM-302 Cyphomandra Panthao gidibao Occasional Shrub Semi-wild Fruit- Rs.10/
betacea (Cav.) (DI), Thei manta Vegetable five
Sendt. syn. (HR), Pebang tigi fruits
Solanum chi (ZE)
betaceum Cav./
Solanaceae
105** PM-303 Dillenia indica Thaidi (DI), Occasional Tree Semi-wild Fruit- Rs.5/
Linn./ Ithlang (HM) Vegetable two
Dilleniaceae fruits
106* PM-304 Garcinia Borthekera (AS), Occasional Tree Semi-wild Dry sliced Rs.5/
pedunculata Thaikhra gede Fruit- one fruit
Roxb./ (DI), Vomva (HM) Curry(Also
Clusiaceae/Gutiif medicine for
erae loose
motion)
107** PM-305 Lycopersicon Gidibao (DI), Frequent Herb Local Fruit- Rs.25/
esculentum Mill./ Manta thur HM), Cultivar Vegetable & Kg
Solanaceae Dahdul thuh (KU), Salad
Tekit chi (ZE)
108* PM-126/ L. Gidibao-daodi Frequent Herb Semi-wild Fruit- Rs.25/
566710127/ pimpinellifolium (DI), Mantathur Vegetable & Kg
566711 Mill./Solanaceae chin (HM) Salad
109* PM-306 Musa acuminata Thailik (DI), Frequent Large Cultivar Ripe fruit Rs.10/
cv. chinichampa Nachang herb dozen
Colla./ Musaceae (HM/MI), Champa fruits
kola (NE)
110* PM-307 M.acuminata cv. Jahaji kol (AS), Frequent Large Cultivar Ripe fruit Rs.15/
jahaji Colla./ Thailik Gibi (DI), herb four
Musaceae Nachang (HM/MI) fruits
111* PM-308 M. bulbisiana Thailikatsia/Thaili Frequent Large Cultivar Ripe fruit Rs.10/
Colla. syn. M. k gibi (DI), herb dozen
sapientum var. Nachang (MI/HM) fruits
pruinosa./
Musaceae
112** PM-309 Musa sp./ Thailik Gibi (DI), Frequent Large Cultivar Young Rs.10/
Musaceae Nachang changpui herb fruit/soft four
long (HM/MI), pith- fruits
Kach kola (NE), Vegetable
Numpui (ZE)
113 PM-310 Musa sp./ Laidi-laigonthai Frequent Large Wild Inflorescence Rs. 10/
Musaceae (DI), Gam herb (Thin-long two
Nachang vui green)- Inflores
(HM/MI), Gumjui Vegetable cences
(ZE)
114 PM-311 Musa sp./ Laidi-laiyung (DI), Frequent Large Wild Inflorescence Rs. 10/
Musaceae Gam Nachang vui herb (Big-long two
(HM/MI) purple)- Inflores
Vegetable cence
115 PM-312 M.velutina Laishrimdi (DI), Frequent Large Wild Inflorescence Rs.
Wendl./ Gam Nachang vui herb (Small-short 10/three
Musaceae (HM/MI), Gumjui purple)- Inflores
(ZE) Vegetable cences
116 PM-313 Oroxyllum Kalong (DI), Occasional Tree Wild Fleshy Rs.5/
indicum L.Vent/ Bakolong (HR) corolla- five
Bignoniaceae Vegetable fleshy
corollas
(Contd.)
96 INDIAN J NAT PROD RESOUR, MARCH 2012

Table 2c  Other fruits, seeds and inflorescences, etc. contd

S. No. Coll. no. / Botanical name/ Vernacular name Frequency Habit Biological Parts Market
I.C.no. Family status used/Mode rate
of use (Rs.)
117** PM- 80/ Passiflora edulis Saptheilempa Occasional Climber Semi-Wild Young Rs.2/
560838 Sims.f. flavicarpa (HM/KU), Karora Shoot- one fruit
Degener/ chi (ZE) Vegetable,
Passifloraceae Fruit-Eaten
raw
118 PM-286 P. quadriangulis Panthao milao Occasional Climber Cultivar Fruit- Rs.10/
Linn./ (DI), Vegetable Kg
Passifloraceae Sapthailempa
(HM), Karora chi
(ZE)
119 PM-314 Phlogacanthus Aluso (DI) Occasional Undersh Wild Dry/fresh Rs.5/
curviflorus Nees/ rub Inflorescence ten
Acanthaceae -Vegetable inflores
cences
120 PM-315 P. tubiflorus Aluso (DI) Occasional Undersh Wild Dry/fresh Rs.5/
Nees/ rub Inflorescence ten
Acanthaceae -Vegetable inflores
cences
121 PM- Solanum gilo Panthao kenkathai Abundant Undersh Cultivar Fruit- Rs.10/
124/566708 Raddi./ (DI), Manta (HM), rub Vegetable Kg
Solanaceae Katuk chi (ZE)
122 PM-317 S. indicum Linn./ Panthao Abundant Undersh Semi wild Fruit- Rs.5/
Solanaceae khimkhatai (DI), rub Vegetable unit of
Sam tok (HM), about
Leenguipi (KU), 200g
Karinchi (ZE)
123* PM- S. macrocarpon Panthao khimbong Abundant Undersh Cultivar Fruit/Young Rs.15/
132/566716 Linn./ Solanaceae (DI), Manta (HM), rub shoot- Kg
Mendautuk-chi Vegetable
(ZE)
124 PM-316 S. melongena Linn. Panthao (DI), Abundant Undersh Landrace/ Fruit- Rs.20/
var. depressum Manta (HM), rub Cultivar Vegetable Kg
Dunal/ Mendautuk-chi
Solanaceae (ZE)
125 PM-318 Travesia palmata Kemtaudi (DI), Occasional Shrub Semi-wild Inflorescence Rs.5/
(Roxb.) Vis./ Kotebel (HM) -Vegetable unit of
Araliaceae about
300g
Table 3  Spices and Condiments
S. No. Coll. no. Botanical name/ Vernacular name Frequency Habit Biological Parts Market
/I.C.no. Family status used/Mode rate
of use (Rs.)
126 PM-319 Albizia Themra maizu Occasional Lianes Semi-wild Bark-for Rs.10/
myriophylla (DI) flavoring bundle
Benth./ beer of about
Mimosaceae 150g
127 PM-320 Allium chinense Mwjngphang (DI), Occasional Herb Landrace/ Leaf/Inflores Rs.5/
G. Don/ Liliaceae Tlang purun Cultivar cence- bundle
(HM), Newgi Vegetable/ of about
Tingdra (ZE) Spice 250 g
128 PM-321 A. hookeri Thw./ Tlang purun Frequent Herb Landrace/ Whole plant Rs.5/
Liliaceae (HM), Tingdra Cultivar bundle
(ZE) of about
250 g
(Contd.)
 MEDHI & BORTHAKUR: EDIBLE PLANTS SOLD AT HAFLONG MARKET OF NORTH CACHAR HILLS 97

Table 3  Spices and Condimentscontd

S. No. Coll. no. Botanical name/ Vernacular name Frequency Habit Biological Parts Market
/I.C.no. Family status used/Mode rate
of use (Rs.)

129 PM-322 A. Tlang purun Frequent Herb Landrace/ Whole plant Rs.5/
schoenoprasum (HM), Tingdra Cultivar bundle
Linn./Liliaceae (ZE) of about
250 g
130* PM-323 Alpinia nigra Deragong (DI), Abundant Herb Semi- wild Pith/ Rs.5/
(Gaertn.) Burtt/ Aihre don (HM) Inflorescence unit of
Zingiberaceae about
350g
131 PM-324 Ammomum Aihere tel (HM) Rare Herb Semi- wild Crowded Rs.5/
maximum Roxb./ fruits arising five
Zingiberzceae from base fruits
used as
chutney
132* PM-326 Capsicum annum Morsai gibir (DI), Frequent Under Cultivar Fruit-With Rs.5/
Linn. var. Saph marchoi te shrub vegetable/ five
abbreviata/ (HM), Naga chatni fruits
Solanaceae Morsa (NE)
133* PM-139/ C. annum Linn. Morsai gibir (DI), Frequent Under Cultivar Fruit-With Rs.10/
566723 var. grossum Saph marcha shrub vegetable/ five
(Willd.) Sendt./ (HM), Naga chatni fruits
Solanaceae Morsa (NE)
134 PM-149/ C. frutescens Morsai Frequent Under Cultivar Fruit(very Rs.5/
566733 Linn./ Solanaceae gonchi/khasiba shrub small)-With 50g
(DI), Mazu ek vegetable/
morsha (HM) chatni
135 PM-153/ C. minima Linn./ Morsai giding lik Frequent Undersh Cultivar Fruit-With Rs.5/
566737 Solanaceae (DI), Dhungangne rub vegetable/ 50g
(ZE) (Fruit small chatni
round with aroma)
136 PM-333 Carum Bakho gamram Rare Herb Cultivar Leaf-With Rs.5/
involucratum (DI), Khum hoi chatni bundle
Baill./ Apiaceae (HM) of about
10
shoots
137 PM-408 Cinnamomum Tezpata/Hnarimne Occasional Tree Cultivar Leaf Rs.5/
tamala Nees/ i/Hnarimse (HM) bundle
Lauraceae of about
250 g
138 PM-327 C. zeylanicum Dalchini /Thing Occasional Tree Cultivar Bark Rs.25/
Blume/Lauraceae hong tlum (HM) 100g
139* PM-328 Coriandrum Bakhor (DI), Occasional Herb Cultivar Leaf/Seeds Rs.5/
sativum Linn./ Parrimse (HM) unit of
Apiaceae about
50g
140 PM-329 Curcuma Silik di (DI), Aieng Frequent Herb Jhum Dried Rs.15/
domestica Valet./ (HM/KU), Gumnei Cultivar rhizome 100g
Zingiberaceae (ZE) powder
141 PM- Cymbopogon Hnarim-um (HM) Occasional Grass Cultivar Soft pith Rs.10/
77/560835 citratus Stapf./ bundle
Poaceae of about
350 g

(Contd.)
98 INDIAN J NAT PROD RESOUR, MARCH 2012

Table 3  Spices and Condimentscontd

S. No. Coll. no. Botanical name/ Vernacular name Frequency Habit Biological Parts Market
/I.C.no. Family status used/Mode rate
of use (Rs.)
142 PM-330 Elsholzia Rengma ser (HM), Frequent Herb Jhum Fresh Rs.5/
strobilifera Langtu (ZE) Cultivar leaf/Dried bundle
Benth./ inflorescence of about
Lamiaceae -Chatni 500g
143** PM-331 Eryngium Patikhom (HM), Frequent Herb Cultivar Leaf Rs.5/
foetidum Linn./ Naga Dhania bundle
Apiaceae (NE), Bakhor (ZE) of about
5 plants
144** PM-332 Houttyunia Mojoukhmo (DI), Frequent Herb Cultivar Leaf Rs.10/b
cordata Thunb./ Ai thang (HM), /Creeping undle of
Saururaceae Jarmendo (PN) stem(Also about
useful in 300g
Dysentery)
145** PM-334 Mentha arvensis Vai par rim se Frequent Herb Cultivar Leaf -Chatni Rs.10/
Linn./ Lamiaceae (HM), Pudina bundle
(NE), Namplane of about
(ZE) 50g
146 PM-335 Murraya koenigii Thamsi- Occasional Shrub Semi-wild Young Leaf- Rs.5/
(Linn.) Spreng./ youngihabia (DI), Chatni bundle
Rutaceae Narashingha (NE) of about
300g
147 PM-260 Nicotiana rustica Damalai (DI), Frequent Herb Semi-wild Dried leaf- Rs.10/
Linn./ Solanaceae Dum hna (HM) /Cultivar Masticator 100g
148** PM-336 Ocimum Bahanda (DI), Frequent Herb Jhum Leaf- Rs.5/
basilicum Linn./ Vaipar (HM), Cultivar Spice/Chatni bundle
Lamiaceae Yungne (ZE) of about
350g
149* PM-73/ Perilla frutescens Snem (DI), Sipui Frequent Herb Jhum Inflorescence Rs.5/
560831 74/ (Linn.) Britt./ (HM) Cultivar /Seeds- unit of
560832 Lamiaceae chatni/ about
fermented 250g
chatni-Chang
(ZE)
150 PM-337 Piper nigrum Morshaidi (DI) Occasional Climber Cultivar Dry Seeds Rs.20/
Linn./ Piperaceae 100g.
151 PM-338 Polygonum Singju (DI) Rare Herb Semi-wild Leaf-Spice/ Rs.5/
posumbu Buch.- Chatni bundle
Ham. ex D. Don/ of about
Polygonaceae 500g
152 PM-339 Rhus semialata Gambao/ Khongna Frequent Tree Semi Wild Seeds eaten Rs.10/
Murr./ (DI), Khokma raw as unit of
Anacardiaceae (HR), Kemeu (ZE) chutney 50g
chutney
153 PM- Sesamum Sibing (DI), Sivar- Frequent Herb Jhum Seeds eaten Rs.15/
71/560829 indicum DC./ white seed & Cultivar raw as 250g
72/560830 Pedaliaceae Sidum-black seed chutney
(HM), Geching
(ZE)
154 PM-488 Toddalia asiatica Keizi (ZE) Rare Tree Wild Young fruits Rs.10/
(Linn.) Lam./ (small) eaten raw as bundle
Rutaceae chutney of about
500g

(Contd).
 MEDHI & BORTHAKUR: EDIBLE PLANTS SOLD AT HAFLONG MARKET OF NORTH CACHAR HILLS 99

Table 3  Spices and Condimentscontd

S. No. Coll. no. Botanical name/ Vernacular name Frequency Habit Biological Parts Market
/I.C.no. Family status used/Mode rate
of use (Rs.)
155 PM-340 Trigonella Methi sak Occasional Herb Cultivar Young Rs.5/
foenum graecum (AS/NE) shoot- bundle
Linn./Fabaceae Vegetable of about
250g
156 PM-341 Zanthoxyllum Mejen (DI), Occasional Undersh Semi-wild Young Rs.5/
armatum DC./ Singzor (HM), rub shoot- bundle
Rutaceae Nech chi (ZE) Vegetable of about
350g
157* PM-342 Z. oxyphyllum Timur (NE), Leuer Occasional Shrub Wild Young Rs.5/
Edgw./ Rutaceae (PN) leaf/Seeds- bundle
chutney of 5- 8
shoots
158* PM-343 Zingiber Hajing (DI), Abundant Herb Jhum Rhizome/ Rs.5/
officinale Rosc./ Ai thing (HM), Cultivar Young 250g
Zingiberaceae Theing (KU), inflorescence
Kaphu/ Kebeb (ZE)

Table 4  Tubers
S. No. Coll. no. Botanical name/ Vernacular name Frequency Habit Biological Parts Market
/I.C.no. Family status used/Mode rate
of use (Rs.)
159 PM-344 Alocasia indica Thagong (DI), Occasional Herb Cultivar Tuber & Rs.10/
(Roxb.) Schott./ Kebei (ZE) stolon- Kg
Araceae Vegetable
160 PM-169/ A. macrorrhiza Thagong yung Occasional Herb Cultivar Tuber- Rs.10/
569109 (Linn.)G.Don/ (DI), Kebei (ZE) Vegetable Kg
Araceae
161 PM-107/ Amorphophallusb Thabema (DI), Occasional Herb Semi- wild Tuber- Rs.10/
566691 ulbifera Saldong (HM), Vegetable Kg
(Roxb.)Bl./ Telcong (KU),
Araceae Teldon (MI)
162** PM-345 Asparagus Satmul (NE) Occasional Climber Semi-wild Faciculated Rs.5/
racemosus root juice- unit of
Willd./ Liliaceae used against 250g
hypertension
& young
shoot as
mixed
vegetable
163 PM-84/ Canna edulis Par baul Fauk Occasional Herb Cultivar Rhizome Rs.10/
560841 Ker-Gawl/ (HM), Nung gum Kg
Cannaceae (ZE)
164* PM-346 Colocasia Thabatha (DI), Frequent Herb Jhum Fresh/Dry Rs.10/
esculenta (Linn.) Dol tol (HM), Cultivar leaf sheath- k.of
Schott. syn. C. Batta (HR), Kebei Vegetable tuber
antiquorum (ZE) and tuber – and
Schott./Araceae Jaldong 100 g
(Fermented chutney
chutney)
165* PM-96/ C. esculenta Thahon (DI), Occasional Herb Jhum Fresh leaf Rs.15/
566680 (Linn.) Schott./ Golbot (MI), Cultivar sheath and Kg
Araceae Perew (ZE) tuber –
Vegetable &
chutney
(Contd.)
100 INDIAN J NAT PROD RESOUR, MARCH 2012

Table 4  Tuberscontd

S. No. Coll. no. / Botanical name/ Vernacular name Frequency Habit Biological Parts Market
I.C.no. Family status used/Mode rate
of use (Rs.)
166* PM-97/ C. esculenta Thadimai (DI), Occasional Herb Jhum Leaf sheath Rs.10/
566681 (Linn.) Schott./ Dolzung fauk Cultivar /Large stolon bundle
Araceae (HM), Balak pui -Vegetable of about
(MI) 500g
167* PM-100/ C. esculenta Thadisa gajao Occasional Herb Jhum Leaf sheath Rs.10/
566684 (Linn.) Schott./ (DI), Balak pui Cultivar /Reddish soft Kg
Araceae (MI) tuber-
Vegetable
168* PM-94/ C. esculenta Thakhlong (DI), Occasional Herb Jhum Leaf sheath Rs.10/
566678 (Linn.) Schott./ Baul fauk (HM), Cultivar /Tuber- Kg
Araceae Bata (HR), Baul Vegetable
bom (MI)
169 PM-157/ Dioscorea alata Thaphu sathai Occasional Climber Semi- wild Small white Rs.10/
569097 Linn./ (DI), Bahra (HM), tuber cooked Kg
Dioscoreaceae Baha (KU/VA), with
Basa (MI) vegetable
and also Rice
170 PM-164/ D. alata Linn./ Tarul (NE), Occasional Climber Cultivar Large tuber Rs.10/
569104 Dioscoreaceae Nruireu (ZE) cooked with Kg
vegetable
and also Rice
171 PM- D. bulbifera Thaphu Occasional Climber Semi -wild Small red Rs.10/
158/569098 Linn./ miyungwablai tuber cooked Kg
Dioscoreaceae (DI), Basel phauk with
(HM), Baha (MI) vegetable
and also Rice
172 PM-347 D. bulbifera Thaphukhlong Occasional Climber Semi -wild Large red Rs.10/
Linn./ (DI), Ram bahra tuber cooked Kg
Dioscoreaceae (HM), Baha (MI) as vegetable /
also with
Rice
173* PM-168/ Homalomena Tharem/Thagong- Occasional Herb Semi-wild Tuber/Leaf Rs.10/
569108 aromatica yungsa (DI) sheath 500g
Schott./ Araceae
174** PM-348 Ipomoea batatas Thamunglai guphu Frequent Creeper Cultivar White barked Rs.10/
(Linn.) Lamk./ (DI), Kolkai (HM), tuber-eaten Kg
Convolvulaceae Gaithum (MI), boiled
Reukumbe (ZE)
175** PM-349 I. batatas (Linn.) Thamunglai Gajao Frequent Creeper Cultivar Red barked Rs.10/
Lamk./ (DI), Kolkai (HM), tuber-eaten Kg
Convolvulaceae Gaithum (MI), boiled
Reukumbe (ZE)
176** PM-250 Manihot Ruthi (DI), Thing Frequent Undersh Cultivar Tuber-eaten Rs.10/
esculenta Crantz. kowlkai (HM), Ba rub boiled & raw Kg
syn. M. thing (HR)
ultilissima Pohl./
Euphorbiaceae
177** PM-351 Maranta Tha Lairusa (DI), Occasional Herb Cultivar Tuber-eaten Rs.10/ k
arundinacea Hnathel (HM), both raw &
Linn./ Hpogimbai (ZE) boiled
Marantaceae
178** PM-352 M. dichotoma Tha Lairu (DI), Occasional Herb Cultivar Tuber-eaten Rs.10/
Linn./ Hnathel (HM), both raw & Kg
Marantaceae Hpogimbai (ZE) boiled
(Contd.)
 MEDHI & BORTHAKUR: EDIBLE PLANTS SOLD AT HAFLONG MARKET OF NORTH CACHAR HILLS 101

Table 4  Tuberscontd

S. No. Coll. no. Botanical name/ Vernacular name Frequency Habit Biological Parts Market
/I.C.no. Family status used/Mode rate
of use (Rs.)
179 PM-167/ Smilax china Thassap/ Susni Occasional Climber Wild Tuber- Rs. 20/
569107 Duham/ (DI), Reucheu boiled juice Kg
Smilacaceae (ZE) as
revitalizing
tonic daily
180 PM-160/ Stemona tuberosa Thagdi (DI), Occasional Climber Semi-wild White barked Rs. 15/
569100 Lour./ Barhtlum (HM) tuber-eaten Kg
Stemonaceae boiled
181* PM-95/ Xanthosoma Dawl sel phak Frequent Herb Cultivar Leaf Rs. 10/
566679 sagitifolium (HM), Banai sheath/tuber- unit of
(Linn.) Schott./ (HR), Dawl sialne Vegetabl about
Aracea (MI) 750g
182* PM-91/ X. violaceum Manai gisim (DI), Frequent Herb Cultivar Leaf Rs. 10/
566675 (Vell.) Mansfeld./ Dawl sel phak sheath/tuber- unit of
Araceae (HM), Banai Vegetable about
(HR), Dawl sialne 750g
(MI)

Table 5  Wild edible Mushrooms

S. No. Coll. no. Botanical name/ Vernacular Frequency Habit Biological Parts Market
/I.C.no. Family name status used/Mode rate
of use (Rs.)

183 PM-353 Agaricus sp./ Mukhum gidiba Occasional Saprophyte Wild Vegetable Rs.10/
Agaricaceae (DI) with dry fish 200g
(Big toad
stool,
creamy)
184 PM-354 Auricularia Mukhum mlen Frequent Saprophyte Wild Vegetable Rs.10/
polysticha (Mont.) (DI), Pachei with dry 200g
Saccardo./ (ZE) fish(grouped,
Auriculariaceae brown
coloured,
sticky)
185 PM-355 Cantharellus sp./ Mukhum wathi Frequent Saprophyte Wild Vegetable Rs.10/
Cantharellaceae (DI), Pah fip with dry 200g
(HM), fish(hard,
Thaikompa (ZE) cream
coloured)
186 PM-356 Pleurotus Mukhum mouser Occasional Saprophyte Wild Vegetable Rs.10/
citrinopileatus (DI), with dry 200g
(Pers.) Morg./ Pasonhlung fish(hard,
Pleurotaceae (HM), Nriepa light brown
(ZE) coloured)
187 PM-357 P. ostreatus Mukhum Frequent Saprophyte Wild Vegetable Rs.10/
(Jacq.Fr.) hafalam (DI), with dry 200g
Kummer/ Patak (ZE) fish(hard,
Pleurotaceae lobed, cream
coloured)
188 PM-358 P. pulmonarious Mukum-rathong Occasional Saprophyte Wild Vegetable Rs.10/
Fr./ Pleurotaceae (DI), Pachei with dry fish 200g
(ZE)

(Contd.)
102 INDIAN J NAT PROD RESOUR, MARCH 2012

Table 5  Wild edible Mushroomscontd

S. No. Coll. no. Botanical name/ Vernacular Frequency Habit Biological Parts Market
/I.C.no. Family name status used/Mode rate
of use (Rs.)

189 PM-359 P. squarrosulus Mukum rathow Occasional Saprophyte Wild Vegetable Rs.10/
(Mont.) Singer/ (DI), Pachang with dry fish 200g
Pleurotaceae (HM),
Nguiepa/Patak
(ZE)
190 PM-360 Schizophyllum Mukhum jijai Frequent Saprophyte Wild Vegetable Rs.10/
commune Fr./ (DI), Passiso with dry fish 200g
Schizophyllaceae (HM), (lobed,
Tingchapa (ZE) purple/black
colour,
odourous)
191 PM-361 Tricholoma Mukhum godho Occasional Saprophyte Wild Vegetable Rs.10/
imbricatum (Fr.& (DI), Papal with dry fish 200g
Fr.) Kummer/ (HM), Pane (Small toad
Tricholomataceae (ZE) stool, brown)

Table 6a  Fruits and Seeds -Citrus Fruits

(B). Eaten uncooked or raw:

S. No. Coll. no. Botanical name/ Vernacular Frequency Habit Biological Parts Market
/I.C.no. Family name status used/Mode rate
of use (Rs.)
192 PM-362 Citrus Kagji-nemu Frequent Shrub Cultivar Juice/Bark Rs. 5/
aurantifolia (AS),Thaisa three
(Christ.) Swingle/ maikhri (DI), fruits
Rutaceae Thei-tur (HM),
Sehkawl (KU),
Lembu (MI),
Gareu chi (ZE)
193 PM-363 C. aurantium Thaisa maikhri Frequent Shrub Cultivar Juice Rs.
Linn./ Rutaceae (DI), Lembu 5/three
(MI) fruits
194 PM-364 C. grandis (Linn.) Riba (DI), Frequent Tree Cultivar Pulp Rs. 5/
Osbeck/ Rutaceae Saiseh fruit
(HM/KU),
Gareu chi (ZE)
195 PM-365 C. hystrix DC./ Riba (DI), Occasional Tree Semi-wild Pulp Rs.
Rutaceae Setuitam (HM), 5/two
Sher thum (HR), fruits
Satkorachi (ZE)
196 PM-366 C. jambhiri Lush./ Thaisa maikhri Occasional Shrub Cultivar Pulp (Rough Rs. 5/
Rutaceae (DI), Ramser surface, three
(HM) rounded, fruits
pointed
nipple)
197 PM-367 C. limon (Linn.) Assam limon, Occasional Shrub Cultivar Juice Rs. 5/
Burm./ Rutaceae Thaisa maikhri three
(DI) fruits
198** PM-370 C. macroptera Hatkura (PN) Rare Tree Cultivar Fleshy bark Rs. 5/
var. annamensis as spice with fruits
Tanaka/ Rutaceae meat
(Contd.)
 MEDHI & BORTHAKUR: EDIBLE PLANTS SOLD AT HAFLONG MARKET OF NORTH CACHAR HILLS 103

Table 6a  Fruits and Seeds -Citrus Fruitscontd

(B). Eaten uncooked or raw:

S. No. Coll. no. / Botanical name/ Vernacular Frequency Habit Biological Parts Market
I.C.no. Family name status used/Mode rate
of use (Rs.)
199 PM-368 C. medica Linn. f. Thaisa maikhri Frequent Shrub Cultivar Juice/Bark Rs. 5/
limon (Linn.) (DI), Lembu (Rough three
Hiroe/ Rutaceae (MI) surface with fruits
pointed
nipple)
200 PM-369 C. reticulata Hondra (DI), Frequent Tree Cultivar Pulp Rs.10/
Blanco/ Rutaceae Kamla lebu three
(NE) fruits
201 PM-371 C. sinensis (Linn.) Jora tenga (AS), Rare Shrub Wild Fleshy bark Rs. 5/
Osback/ Rutaceae Gareu chi (ZE) and less juice three
edible fruits

Table 6b  Other fruits and seeds, etc. contd

S. No. Coll. no. Botanical name/ Vernacular Frequency Habit Biological Parts Market
/I.C.no. Family name status used/Mode rate
of use (Rs.)

202 PM-372 Achras sapota Safeta (NE) Occasional Tree Cultivar Fruit Rs.5/
Linn. syn. five
Mimusops fruits
manilkara G.
Don/ Sapotaceae
203 PM-373 Aegle marmelos Belthai (DI), Occasional Tree Semi-wild Fruit Rs.5/
(Linn.) Corr./ Chilongpak chi two
Rutaceae (ZE) fruits
204 PM-374 Ananas comosus Laimuri (DI), Frequent Herb Cultivar Fruit/Sorosis Rs.5/
(Linn.) Merr./ Rengthei (HM), fruits
Bromeliaceae Lengthai (KU),
Puatingram chi
(ZE)
205 PM-134/ Artocarpus Thaiphlung Frequent Tree Cultivar Fruit Rs.15/
566718 heterophyllus (DI), Lamkhong fruits
Lamk./ Moraceae (HM/KU),
Lunkhuong (MI)
206* PM-375 Averrhoa Sonosamba/Kam Occasional Tree Cultivar Fruit- Rs.5/
carambola (Linn.) rangthai (DI), Vegetable/ five
DC./ Thei hreiot jelly fruits
Averrhoeaceae (HM)
207 PM-376 Baccaurea Letuk (AS), Occasional Tree Cultivar Fruit Rs.10/
ramiflora (Roxb.) Kosmai thai unit of
Muell.-Arg./ (DI), about
Euphorbiaceae Theipangkai 30 fruits
(KU), Kauchi
(ZE)
208 PM-377 Bridelia retusa Thaidaoblib Occasional Lianes Wild Fruit Rs.5/
(Linn.) Spreng./ (DI) 200g
Euphorbiaceae fruits
209 PM-378 Calamus erectus Raigongang Occasional Lianes Wild Fruit Rs.5/
Roxb./ Arecaceae (DI) unit of
about
20 fruits

(Contd.)
104 INDIAN J NAT PROD RESOUR, MARCH 2012

Table 6b  Other fruits and seeds, etc. contd

S. No. Coll. no. / Botanical name/ Vernacular Frequency Habit Biological Parts Market
I.C.no. Family name status used/Mode rate
of use (Rs.)
210 PM-119/ Castanopsis Isera (HR), Rare Tree Wild Fruit Rs.5/
566703 indicus (Roxb.) Thingsa chi 250g
A.DC./ Fagaceae (ZE)
211 PM-379 Diospyros Chauchi (ZE), Rare Tree Wild Fruit Rs.10/
lanceaefolia Phaktel (HM) unit of
Roxb./ Ebenaceae 300g
fruits
212* PM-380 Elaegnus latifolia Matau (HM) Frequent Lianes Semi-wild Fruit eaten Rs.10/
Linn. syn. E. raw and Jelly Kg
infundibularis prepared
Momiyama/
Elaeagnaceae
213 PM-381 Emblica Hamlaithai (DI), Frequent Tree Semi-wild Fruit Rs.10/
officinalis Gaertn. Gam so-lu (MI), Kg
syn. Phyllanthus Jauka chi (ZE)
emblica Linn./
Euphorbiaceae
214 PM-382 Ficus glomerata Dermi (DI) Occasional Tree Wild Fruit Rs.5/
Roxb./ Moraceae 15 fruits
215 PM-383 Flacourtia Panial (AS), Occasional Tree Semi-wild Fruit Rs.5/
cataphracta Thaislagunju/ 250g
Roxb./ Thaislagondi
Flacourtiaceae (DI)
216 PM-384 Garcinia Kujithekera Occasional Tree Cultivar Fruit Rs.5/
lanceaefolia var. (AS), Sushru five
oxyphylla Roxb./ (DI), Pelte fruits
Clusiaceae (HM)
217* PM-88/ Gossypium Khun (DI) Occasional Shrub Cultivar Young fruit Rs.5/ten
560842 herbaceaum edible & fruits &
Linn./Malvaceae Ripe bole- Rs.100/
raw cotton Kg
218 PM-385 Juglans regia Juart chi (ZE) Rare Tree Wild Fruit Rs.5/
Linn./ unit of
Juglandaceae 200g
fruits
219 PM-386 Litchi chinensis Lichu (DI), Frequent Tree Cultivar Fruit Aril Rs.15/
Sonner./ Muolhoi unit of
Sapindaceae (HM/KU), Nkui 40 fruits
chi (ZE)
220 PM-387 Mangifera indica Thaiju (DI), Frequent Tree Cultivar Fruit Rs.10/
Linn./ Thai hai Kg
Anacardiaceae (HM/MI), Hai
thai (KU), Mba
Chi (ZE)
221 PM-388 M. sylvatica Thaiju mairong Rare Tree Wild Fruit Rs.10/
Roxb./ (DI), Gam Kg
Anacardiaceae Thaihai (MI),
Hnamba chi
(ZE)
222 PM-389 Morus acidosa Thing Frequent Tree Cultivar Fruit Rs.5/
Griff./Moraceae thaimei/Thaimou 250g
(HM/MI), Mbun
chi (ZE)
(Contd.)
 MEDHI & BORTHAKUR: EDIBLE PLANTS SOLD AT HAFLONG MARKET OF NORTH CACHAR HILLS 105

Table 6b  Other fruits and seeds, etc. contd

S. No. Coll. no. Botanical name/ Vernacular Frequency Habit Biological Parts Market
/I.C.no. Family name status used/Mode rate
of use (Rs.)
223 PM-390 Myrica nagi Bon bogori Occasional Tree Cultivar Fruit Rs.10/
Thunb./ (AS), Delaoji Kg
Myricaceae (DI)
224 PM-391 Myrica sp./ Kaphol (NE), Rare Tree Cultivar Sour rounded Rs.5/
Myricaceae Sophi (PN) Fruit five
fruits
225 PM-392 Phyllanthus Lewathai (DI) Occasional Tree Cultivar Fruit Rs.10/
acidus Skeel. syn. Kg
Cicca acida
(Linn) Merr./
Euphorbiaceae
226 PM-393 Prunus Delaoji (DI), Rare Tree Semi-wild Ripe fruit Rs.10/
nepaulensis (Ser.) Ngau chi (ZE) unit of
Steud./ Rosaceae 500g
227* PM-394 P. persica (Linn.) Delaoji mikhri Occasional Tree Cultivar Fruit and Rs.15/
Batsch/ Rosaceae (DI), Thei dakte Local Beer Kg
(HR), Plum preparation
(small) (NE)
228* PM-395 P. persica (Linn.) Delaoji mikhri Occasional Tree Cultivar Fruit and Rs.15/
Batsch/ Rosaceae (DI), Thei dakte Local Beer Kg
(HR), Plum preparation
(big) (NE)
229 PM-396 Psidium guajava Sukrem (DI), Frequent Tree Cultivar Fruit Rs.5/
Linn./ Myrtaceae Kawl thai (HM), five
Thaichang pah fruits
(KU), Bangbo
chi (ZE)
230 PM-397 Punica granatum Dalim (DI), Frequent Tree Cultivar Fruit Rs.5/
Linn./ Punicaceae Dahiu (HM), fruit
Kolbuthai (KU),
Vai-mim thai
(MI), Turchi
(ZE)
231 PM-398 Pyrus pashia Nashpati Abundant Tree Cultivar Fruit Rs.10/
Buch.- Ham. ex (DI/HM/NE), Kg
D.Don/ Rosaceae Mapak chi (ZE)
232 PM-399 Rubus rosasifolius Sumugisim (DI), Occasional Climber Wild Fruit Rs.5/
Sm./ Rosaceae Mantum (HM) unit of
150g
233** PM-400 Spondias pinnata Thaisudi (DI), Frequent Tree Semi-wild Fruit Rs.5/
(Linn.f.) Kurz/ Njing-chi (ZE) ten
Annacardiaceae fruits
234 PM-401 Syzygium cuminii Jambu thai (DI), Occasional Tree Semi-wild Fruit Rs.10/
(Linn.) Skeels/ Sepuinusu Kg
Myrtaceae (HM), Thei-vom
(KU),
Hmuizolong
(HR), Jamun
(NE), Mui-chi
(ZE)
235 PM-402 Tamarindus Tintri (DI), Frequent Tree Cultivar Fruit Rs.10/
indica Linn./ Theipai (HM & Kg
Caesalpinaceae KU)

(Contd.)
106 INDIAN J NAT PROD RESOUR, MARCH 2012

Table 6b  Other fruits and seeds, etc. contd

S. No. Coll. no. Botanical name/ Vernacular Frequency Habit Biological Parts Market
/I.C.no. Family name status used/Mode rate
of use (Rs.)
236 PM-403 Terminalia Shilikha thai Occasional Tree Cultivar Fruit Rs.10/
chebula Retz./ (DI), Ortoki Kg
Combretaceae (HR)
237 PM-404 Tinospora Amarlata (NE) Occasional Climber Semi Wild Stem juice- Rs.5/
cordifolia Anti- bundle
(Willd.)Hk.f. & dysenteric, of 6-9
Thoms./ Gall bladder inches
Menispermaceae tonic long
stem -5
pieces.
238 PM-405 Ziziphus Thaigungdi Occasional Tree Semi-wild Fruit Rs.10/
mauritiana (DI), Ngai-chi Kg
Lamk./ (ZE)
Rhmnaceae
239* PM-131/ Vitis sp./ Vitaceae Angur (Sour Occasional Lianes Cultivar Fruit and Rs.20/
566715 black Grapes) Local Beer Kg
(HR) preparation
(C) Cereals (Eaten either cooked or raw or both)

Table 7  Cereals

S. No. Coll. no. / Botanical Vernacular Frequency Habit Biological Parts Market rate
I.C.no. name/ name status used/Mode (Rs.)
Family of use
240 PM- Eleusine Samgorai Rare Grass Jhum Seeds-Local Rs.20/ Kg
111/566695 coracana (DI), Cultivar cake also
Gaertn. f./ Remaru local beer
Poaceae (HR) prepared
241 PM- Oryza Biring (DI) Occasional Grass Jhum Sticky Rs.25/ Kg
08/560766. sativa Cultivar Rice-Local
13/560771. Linn./ Beer
34/560792. Poaceae prepared
242 PM- O. sativa Buman/Biro Occasional Grass Jhum Sticky Rs.25/ Kg
53/560811 Linn./ n (HM) Cultivar Rice-Local
54/560812 Poaceae Beer
prepared
243 PM- 29/ Oryza Biron/Buma Occasional Grass Wet Sticky Rs.20/ Kg
560787 60/ sativa n & Muri Cultivar Rice-Local
560818 Linn./ biron/Chan Beer &
Poaceae gman (HM) stuffed rice
prepared
244 PM-50/ O. sativa Maisha Frequent Grass Wet/Jhum Non-sticky Rs.20/ Kg
560808 Linn./ (DI) Cultivar Rice-Staple
Poaceae food &
local Beer
prepared
245* PM-406 Oxytenanth Wa mia/ Abundant Large grass Wild Shoot- Rs.10-15/
era Wathai (DI) Vegetable/f Kg
parvifolia ermented
Brandis ex Chatni and
Gamble/ seeds-used
Poaceae for beer
making.
(Contd.)
 MEDHI & BORTHAKUR: EDIBLE PLANTS SOLD AT HAFLONG MARKET OF NORTH CACHAR HILLS 107

Table 7  Cerealscontd

S. No. Coll. no. / Botanical Vernacular Frequency Habit Biological Parts Market rate
I.C.no. name/ name status used/Mode (Rs.)
Family of use
246 PM-407 Saccharum Guru (DI), Frequent Grass Cultivar Stem-Juice Rs.10/three
officinarum Kelju (HM), sticks
Linn./ Maphu
Poaceae (HR),
Kolchu
(KU),
Hetaru
(ZE)
247 PM-20/ Setaria Maishi & Occasional Grass Jhum Seeds-Local Rs.20/ Kg
560778. 44/ italica Maishi Cultivar cake also
560802.48/ (Linn.) Maisha local beer
560806. Beauv./ (DI), Fatun prepared
Poaceae (HR), Butul
(KU), Hetui
(ZE)
248 PM- Sorghum Guru- Occasional Grass Jhum Dark Seeds- Rs.20/ Kg
19/560777 bicolor maisingao Cultivar Local cake
Willd./ (DI)
Poaceae
249** PM-49/ S. bicolor Khukhru- Occasional Grass Jhum White Rs.20/ Kg
560807 Willd./ maisingao Cultivar Seeds-Local
Poaceae (DI) cake also
local beer
prepared
250** PM-175/ Zea mays Munglai Occasional Grass Landrace/ Cob & local Rs.10/four
176/177 Linn. Race- maiju (DI), Cultivar Beer cobs
Arun Tepi/ Kolbu prepared
Poaceae (KU),
Ntaktingne
(ZE)
251** PM-206/ Z. mays Munglai Occasional Grass Landrace/ Cob & corn Rs.10/four
207/208/ Linn. Race- maiju (DI), Cultivar cobs
209/210 Poorvi Kolbu
Botapa/ (KU),
Poaceae Ntaktingne
(ZE)
252** PM-200/ Z. mays Munglai Occasional Grass Landrace/ Cob & local Rs.10/four
201 Linn. Race- (DI), Cultivar Beer cobs
Cachar Bulbung prepared
Gomdhan/ (HM), Ntak
Poaceae (ZE)
253** PM-188/ Z. mays Munglai Occasional Grass Landrace/ Cob & local Rs.10/four
219 Linn. Race- (DI), Cultivar Beer cobs
Shyam Ntaktingne prepared
Nahom/ (ZE)
Poaceae
254** PM-194/ Z. mays Munglai Occasional Grass Landrace/ Cob & local Rs.10/four
195 Linn. Race- (DI), Jhum Beer cobs
Mikir Miman Cultivar prepared
Merakku/ (HM), Ntak
Poaceae (ZE)
• =More than one parts/ having different modes of use e.g. Fruit & Veg. **=Can be eaten both cooked & raw. Abbreviations:(AS)-
Assamese, (DI)-Dimasa, (HM)-Hmar, (HR)-Hrangkhol, (KU)-Kuki, (MI)-Mizo, (NE)-Nepali, (PN)-Pnar (Jaintia), (VA)-Vaipei, (ZE)-
Zeme Naga.
108 INDIAN J NAT PROD RESOUR, MARCH 2012

Table 8  Numerical Analysis

Table 8a  No. of the recorded plants Table 8b  Frequency analysis of the recorded plants

Category Total No. Frequency No. of Species/varieties

Species/varieties 254 Abundant 19
Generas 170 Frequent 93
Families 75 Occasional 121
Rare 21
Table 8c  Habit analysis of the recorded plants Table 8d  Biological status analysis of the plants

Habit No. of Species/varieties Biological status No. of Species/varieties

Herb 79 Primitive cultvar/Jhum 151
cultivar/cultivar
Undershrub 24
Shrub 17 Semi wild 49
Creeper 8 Wild 45
Climber/Lianes 51
Tree 47
Grass 19
Fungi 9 Weed 9

Table 9  Semi-domesticate plants of Haflong

Name of the species Family Name of the species Family

Acacia farnesiana (Linn.) Willd. Mimosaceae Homalomena aromatica Schott. Araceae
Acacia pinnata (Linn.) Willd. Mimosaceae Luffa cylindrica (Linn.) M.Roem. Cucurbitaceae
Aegle marmelos (Linn.) Corr. Rutaceae Lycopersicon pimpinellifolium Mill. Solanaceae
Albizia myriophylla Benth. Mimosaceae Melocalamus compactiflorus Benth. Poaceae
Alpinia nigra (Gaertn.) Burtt Zingiberaceae Melocanna buccifera (Roxb.) Kurz Poaceae
Ammomum maximum Roxb. Zingiberaceae Melothria heterophylla (Lour.) Cogn. Cucurbitaceae
Amorphophallus bulbifera (Roxb.) Bl. Araceae Momordica charantia var. muricata (Willd.) Cucurbitaceae
H.L.Chakravarty
Asparagus racemosus Willd. Liliaceae Murraya koenigii (Linn.) Spreng. Rutaceae
Bambusa balcooa Roxb. Poaceae Parkia roxburghii G. Don Mimosaceae
Blumea lacera DC. syn. B. balsamifera (Linn.) DC. Asteraceae Passiflora edulis Sims.f. flavicarpa Degener Passifloraceae
Canavalia enciformis DC. Fabaceae Polygonum posumbu Buch.-Ham. ex D.Don Polygonaceae
Canavalia gladiata (Jacq.) DC. Fabaceae Prunus nepaulensis (Ser.) Steud. Rosaceae
Citrus hystrix DC. Rutaceae Rhus semialata Murr. Anacardiaceae
Clerodendrum colebrookianum Walp. Verbenaceae Sarchochlamys pulcherrima (Roxb.) Gaud. Urticaceae
Cucumis trigonus Roxb. Cucurbitaceae Solanum indicum Linn. Solanaceae
Cyphomandra betacea (Cav.) Sendt. syn. Solanaceae Solanum spirale Roxb. Solanaceae
Solanum betaceum Cav.
Dillenia indica Linn. Dilleniaceae Spilanthes acmella Linn. var. oleracea Clarke. Asteraceae
Dioscorea alata Linn. (Thaphu sathai-DIMASA) Dioscoreaceae Spondias pinnata (Linn.f.) Kurz Anacardiaceae
Dioscorea bulbifera Linn. Dioscoreaceae Stemona tuberosa Lour. Stemonaceae
(Thaphu miyungwablai-DIMASA)
Dioscorea bulbifera Linn. Dioscoreaceae Syzygium cuminii (Linn.) Skeels Myrtaceae
(Thaphukhlong-DIMASA)
Elaegnus latifolia Linn. syn. Elaeagnaceae Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Hk.f. & Thoms. Menispermaceae
E. infundibularis Momiyama.
Emblica officinalis Gaertn. syn. Euphorbiaceae Travesia palmata (Roxb) Vis. Araliaceae
Phyllanthus emblica Linn.
Eurrya acuminata DC. Theaceae Zanthoxyllum armatum DC. Rutaceae
Flacourita cataphracta Roxb. Flacourtiaceae
Garcinia pedunculata Roxb. Clusiaceae Ziziphus mauritiana Lamk. Rhmnaceae
 MEDHI & BORTHAKUR: EDIBLE PLANTS SOLD AT HAFLONG MARKET OF NORTH CACHAR HILLS
Conclusion
This is a positive step towards the food security
and plant resource management by the ethnic people
of the area and also important tools for studying crop
domestication and evolution of crops and ethnic
societies.
It is also noteworthy that among the urban dwellers
of different ethnic groups of the Haflong town still
there is a very high demand for the edible plants
recorded in present study because of their traditional
food habit and life style. The primary players in the
collection, processing, and marketing of NWFPs and
cultivated plants and their products are women. Wild
vegetables have good market demand in the local
markets but some of the plants are becoming rare due
to over exploitation and habitat destruction. Multi-tier
wild edible garden can be effective measure for
conservation and sustainable management of wild
vegetables and fruits throughout the year for income
generation and food security of the ethnic groups. As
a whole, systematic approaches with scientific inputs
would help in conserving the important plant
resources and taping the rich indigenous knowledge
base confined to the ethnic groups of the area.
Acknowledgements
Authors are thankful to the ethnic people of N.C.
Hills, other informants and specially the women of the
locality who are very fond of local natural resources
and their management.
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