Utilization of Nontimber Forest Products by Primitive Tribal Groups of Kerala-cholanaikkan and kattunaikan

Abstract

Nilambur forest regions are situated on the western slopes of the Western Ghats and the eastern, northern and southern parts of the Nilambur forests are covered largely by semi-deciduous and wet evergreen forests. Nilambur is also known for its tribal settlements and availability of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFP), a significant source of income for less agriculture dependent tribal communities. The present study on the Cholanaikkans and Kattunaikan tribes of Nilambur forests, Malappuram district of Kerala reveals and documented that, there are 99 potential plant species used for medicinal, edible and other purpose. These plant species spreading over 42 families which are collected and used by tribal people. Most of them have medicinal properties in their bark, root, leaf, stem and fruits and large number of these identified plant species are used as medicine and food. Over exploitation of Non-Timber Forest Products is making some visible threat to some species in these areas. Therefore, the present study also concluded that, Cholanaikkans and Kattunaikans have best knowledge about the uses of a good number of plant species for curing various ailments as well as their nutritional requirements. So that a proper strategic plan is needed to conserve these valuable resources with the support of tribal communities.