Traditional knowledge of edible plants among the Temuan villagers in Kampung Guntor, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia

Abstract

A total of 62 species of edible plants were reported to be used by the villagers in Kampung Guntor. The edible parts were obtained from 17 species of wild plants, 23 species of cultivated plants and 22 species of plants that exist as both wild and planted. More species (26) were eaten cooked compared to the raw species (17). Fruits and seeds were the most common parts used with a total of 38 species followed by the leafy parts with 15 species. It is important not only to record such traditional knowledge and conduct further studies but also to take steps to conserve the genetic diversity of edible plants before they are lost to humankind forever. The knowledge, as well as usage, of certain edible plants is on the decrease due to various factors such as changes in culture, personal preferences, the tedious process of preparing certain food items, and the changes in habitat, thereby causing certain edible plants to be unavailable or less available. Key words: Temuan, traditional knowledge, edible plants.