Abstract
Background: Manipur, one of the Northeastern states of India, is well known for its rich biodiversity and other inhabitant such as art and cultures, its tribes, and also the food habits. Wetlands and their rich bio-resources play a crucial role in nature. In the context of Manipur society, its service is tremendous and non-substitutable. Manipur has 19 wetlands and all together, the state covers 529 km2 areas under wetlands and is mainly located in lowland areas. There is consideration of the wetland as the prominent and promising source of livelihood for sustainable societies and also the plant that plays a significant role in the socio-economic of the state. Trapa natans (Heikak), Euyale ferox (Thangjing), root of Nelumbo nucifera (Thambou), young leaves of N. nucifera (Thamna khenjong), fruits of N. nucifera (Thamchet), Sagittaria sagittifolia (Koukha), Nymphaea species fruit (Thembung), etc. are regularly consumed food items.
Objective: The objective of the study was to understand and analyse the traditional knowledge and practices of people in the wetlands of Manipur. Materials and Methods: Different types of plant(s) from wetlands are partially reviewed in this part of the investigation. A literature survey and interaction location-wise had been done. Further, the study includes a survey of the efficacy of food items as medicines. The collected data were analysed for proper documentation and validation. Results: In this review, the traditional practices of using plants as medicines are also presented. As per analysis, traditional knowledge and practices are in a dangerous state, and soon to be disappearing. The significance of local food items from wetlands is not well known, so documentation is needed and must. People are not aware of and interested in carrying out such traditional food habits. Conclusion: Consequently, this revision may reflect light on the value of preserving the wetlands of Manipur for maintaining the ultimate reservoir of food that acts as medicine, and this will support in establishment of industries at large scale for different applications.