Have you heard of the tribes in Madhya Pradesh? Yes, some still live in tribes, cook food from the wild, and work on agriculture farming to meet their needs. In the heart of India is Madhya Pradesh, the home of various tribes like Gonds, Baigs, Bharias and Korkus. Each tribe knows the areas of wild edibles.
These wild fruits from the tribes of Madhya Pradesh highlight the region's rich biodiversity and underscore the importance of preserving traditional knowledge and sustainable harvesting practices.
Read on and take a detailed look at these wild fruits of MP’s tribes:
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7 Wild Fruits From The Tribes Of Madhya Pradesh:
Mahua (Madhuca Longifolia)
Mahua, also known as Madhuca longifolia, is a significant tree among the Bhil, Gond, Korku, and Sahariya tribes. The tree produces fleshy, yellowish flowers fermented to make a traditional alcoholic beverage, a significant part of their cultural and social ceremonies.
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The fruits of the Mahua tree can be eaten raw or dried and are often used as a sweetener in various dishes. Additionally, Mahua flowers and fruits are used medicinally to treat conditions such as respiratory issues and skin diseases due to their anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
Tendu (Diospyros melanoxylon)
The Tendu fruit, known as Diospyros melanoxylon, is popular among the Bhil, Gond, Kol, and Korku tribes. This fruit is known as Indian persimmon, Tendu fruits are small, round, and orange when ripe. They are typically eaten fresh and have a sweet and tangy flavour that is enjoyed by the Bhil and Gond tribes.
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The leaves of the Tendu tree are also significant as they are used to roll beedi, a traditional form of cigarette. The fruit is not only a source of nutrition but also serves as a mild laxative and is used in traditional medicine to treat digestive issues.
Also Read: Traditional Cooking Practices, Food Culture, And Rituals Of The Bhil Tribe In Madhya Pradesh
Amla (Phyllanthus emblica)
Amla, or Indian gooseberry (Phyllanthus emblica), is highly valued by the Gond, Kol, Bharia, and Pardhan tribes. This fruit is also known as Indian gooseberry, amla is a small, green, and sour fruit. It is highly valued for its high vitamin C content and is consumed fresh or used in pickles and chutneys.
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The Gond and Kol tribes often prepare amla chutney by mixing it with green chillies and coriander. Medicinally, amla is used to boost immunity, improve digestion, and promote hair and skin health. It is also a key ingredient in various Ayurvedic preparations.
Ber (Ziziphus mauritiana)
Ber, or Indian jujube (Ziziphus mauritiana), is a staple fruit for the Bhil, Gond, Korku, and Sahariya tribes. It is a small, round fruit that turns reddish-brown when ripe. It is consumed fresh, dried, or used in traditional desserts. The Sahariya tribe particularly enjoys making sweet preserves from dried Ber.
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This fruit is rich in vitamins and minerals and is known to improve digestion and increase energy levels. The leaves are also used for their medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects.
Bael (Aegle marmelos)
Bael, also known as wood apple (Aegle marmelos), is important to the Bhil, Gond, Kol, and Pardhan tribes. It is also known as a wood apple, a woody, round fruit with a fragrant, sweet pulp. It is consumed fresh or used in beverages and traditional medicinal preparations.
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The Gond tribe often makes a refreshing drink from Bael pulp, which is believed to cool the body. Bael is highly valued for its digestive benefits, as it helps in treating constipation, diarrhoea, and other gastrointestinal issues. It is also used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.
Khirni (Manilkara hexandra)
Khirni (Manilkara hexandra) fruits are enjoyed by the Bhil, Gond, and Korku tribes. They are typically eaten fresh and sometimes dried. The Korku tribe enjoys Khirni as a snack during their foraging activities.
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The fruit is known for its high nutritional value, providing essential vitamins and minerals. It is also used in traditional medicine to improve stamina and overall health.
Karonda (Carissa carandas)
Karonda (Carissa carandas) is a favourite among the Bhil, Gond, Kol, and Korku tribes. Karonda fruits are small, berry-like, and sour when unripe, becoming sweet when ripe. They are used in pickles, jams, and as a fresh fruit. The Bhil tribe often prepares a spicy Karonda pickle that is a staple in their diet. Karonda is rich in iron and vitamin C and is used medicinally to treat anaemia, digestive issues, and skin conditions.
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These wild fruits form an important part of the diet and culture of these tribes, reflecting their deep connection to the land and their traditional knowledge of the local flora.