Ethnobotany of Rajasthan (India)

Book Details

• Authors: V. Singh & R.P. Pandey

• Publisher: Scientific Publishers

• Language: English

• Edition: 1st Edition

• Year of Publication: 2021

• ISBN: 9788172331825

• E-ISBN: 9789388449205

• Pages: 367

• Cover: Hardcover

• Dimensions: 6.5 x 9.75 inches

About the Book
This book provides an in-depth exploration of 610 species of vascular plants that play a crucial role in the lives of tribal communities in a specific state. With more than 2000 species being vital for the economy and subsistence of about 42 lakh tribal people, the book delves into their multifaceted uses. These plants are used for food, fodder, timber, firewood, medicines, and more.

Key Features:

• Detailed Ethnobotanical Insights: In addition to discussing food, medicine, and other practical uses, the book also explores plants used in magico-religious beliefs, rites, rituals, and other cultural practices.

• Scientific and Cultural Context: For each plant species, the book provides:

  • Botanical Name

  • Local Names

  • Diagnostic Features

  • Habitat and Distribution

  • Flowering and Fruiting Period

• Comprehensive Coverage: Plants involved in totems, taboos, and tribal customs are discussed, as well as those associated with folk songs, proverbs, and musical instruments.

• Photographic Documentation: The book includes 67 plant illustrations, 62 color photographs, and one black-and-white photograph to showcase individual plants, landscapes, vegetation types, and tribal life.

• Cultural Insights: The introductory chapters provide detailed information on the land environment of the state, tribal culture, customs, and a methodology for the study.

This book serves as a critical resource for researchers, students, and anyone interested in tribal ethnobotany and the cultural significance of plants. The comprehensive nature of the text, combined with its scientific data and visual documentation, makes it an essential reference in understanding the plant-based lifestyle of tribal communities and their sustainable use of natural resources.