Exploration of nutraceutical properties of Rhododendron arboreum and Myrica esculenta to fulfil market demand and socio-economic development of rural people of Chachiot and Thunag regions of Mandi (Himachal Pradesh)

Abstract

Inhabitants of the hilly regions largely depend on wild herbs for medicine and food supplements. The indigenous knowledge and traditional use of these wild herbs are vanishing fast. Chachiot and Thunag Tehsils of Mandi District are rich repositories of wild medicinal herbs. Among them includes Rhododendron arboretum Sm. and Myrica esculenta. They have been long used for medicinal and edible purposes. Moreover, their flowers, fruits and other value-added products are sold in the domestic market by the local people. This study aimed to investigate nutritional, and medicinal and to access market demand for the socio-economic development of rural people of the study area. Local inhabitants of Chachiot and Thunag collect their flowers and fruits seasonally from March to May. These are good sources of food, medicine and income for local people. However, the recent upsurge in their use and demand has led to illicit harvesting for trade and habitat loss pushing these to the verge of extinction.