The diversity and significance of wild edible vegetable plants in Aceh Tamiang, Indonesia

Abstract

Wild vegetable species are native or naturalized plants that thrive in their natural habitat. This study aims to look into indigenous knowledge about using plants as vegetables and how it affects food security and diversity in the Aceh Tamiang region. Plant material was randomly collected from three subdistricts in Aceh Tamiang, Indonesia. Ethnobotanical data was collected through investigations and semi-structured interviews. A total of 90 respondents, 30 from each sub-district, were selected randomly. Data was cross-checked and verified using the informant context approach and group discussions. The data were examined employing descriptive statistics and quantitative ethnobotanical approaches. We discovered 42 different species of wild vegetables. The majority of these plants are harvested from the wild by consumers in the area. These findings suggest that various plants are able to be consumed raw, which could be a valuable resource for the local community during times of food insecurity.