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As you wander through the forests and hills of Madhya Pradesh you will find yourself not only in awe of the scenery but also of the life that thrives here. Among the secrets of this region are the edible jadibuties, wild herbs and plants used for food and medicine. The jadibuties have been used by local tribes for generations as ingredients in their recipes and healing practices.
You will learn that these jadibuties are more than food; they are steeped in history and culture, a way of living in harmony with nature. From the pungency of wild garlic to the earthiness of leafy greens, each herb has its own unique flavour that will elevate your meals and offer many health benefits.
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In a world that is moving towards natural remedies and sustainable eating these edible jadibuties offer a window into the wisdom of old traditions and the abundance of the earth.
Guggul (Commiphora wightii)
The Guggul tree is considered sacred by tribes like Gond and Bhil. The resin of this tree is highly valued for its medicinal properties. As per the study published by, Cardiovasc Drug Rev. 2007, resin is anti-inflammatory and antioxidant in nature and is used in traditional medicine for joint pain and arthritis. Local communities use Guggul to make balms and pastes for faster healing of wounds and skin infections. When consumed in limited quantity it is believed to aid digestion and weight loss, hence its use in holistic health.
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Safed Musli (Chlorophytum borivilianum)
Safed Musli is a wild herb considered sacred by Bharia and Gond tribes. It is a tonic that enhances vitality and stamina. According to a study published in BMC Complement Altern Med. 2014, it is used as a health supplement to improve male reproductive health and immunity. The roots are dried and powdered and mixed with milk or water to make a nourishing drink. As it combats fatigue and overall wellness Safed Musli has become an integral part of traditional health practises in these communities.
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Amla (Phyllanthus emblica)
Amla or Indian gooseberry is a powerhouse of nutrients considered sacred by Gond, Bhil and Kol tribes. According to a research published in Eur J Cancer Prev. 2011, rich in vitamin C and antioxidants Amla is used to promote respiratory health, immunity, hair and skin health. It is consumed fresh, dried or made into chutneys. Amla is not only a tasty addition to food but also used in traditional medicine to aid digestion and to control blood sugar, hence it is an essential part of local diet.
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Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
Ashwagandha is called Indian ginseng and is an integral part of medicine of tribes like Gond, Bhil and Korku. As per a study published in Med Res Rev 2021, this adaptogenic herb helps the body to cope with stress and fatigue. The dried roots are powdered and consumed to increase energy, improve sleep and overall mental and physical health. Ashwagandha is also used to treat joint pain and arthritis, hence it is a mainstay of traditional medicine.
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Baheda (Terminalia bellirica)
Baheda is also known as Bibhitaki. It is a fruit used by Bhil, Gond and Kol tribes for its many benefits. According to research published in, Indian J Clin Biochem. 2019, it is used to treat respiratory disorders and digestion. Baheda is a part of Triphala, a traditional medicine that is detoxifying and good for bowel health. Baheda is also applied as a paste to wounds and its antibacterial and antifungal properties make it an essential part of traditional herbal medicine.
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Harra (Terminalia chebula)
Harra or Haritaki is a sacred fruit among Gond, Bhil and Kol tribes, for its digestive benefits. Known in traditional Ayurveda, Harra is a key ingredient in Triphala and is praised for its anti-inflammatory and body cleansing properties. Consumed in powder or decoction form it is believed to balance the doshas of the body. Harra is also used to treat respiratory and skin diseases, thus it is an important component of traditional herbal medicines.
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Moringa (Moringa oleifera)
Moringa is called superfood and is used by Gond and Bhil tribes for its nutritional benefits. According to a research published in Asian Pac J Cancer Prev. 2014, every part of Moringa tree, leaves, seeds and pods, is rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Tribal communities use Moringa to cure malnutrition, boost immunity and bone health. Also it is used in traditional medicine to control blood sugar and to treat skin infections, thus it has wide importance in tribal health.
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Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata)
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Kalmegh is called "king of bitters" and is used by tribes like Bhil, Gond and Korku for its medicinal properties. As per a research published in Cureus. 2023, this herb is used to treat liver disorders, fever and digestive problems. Leaves and stems are boiled to make a bitter decoction to boost immunity and detoxification. Kalmegh is also used to manage jaundice and other liver problems, thus it has great importance in tribal medicine.
