Wild and noncultivated edible plants and their contribution to local livelihoods in Putao, Myanmar

Wild and non-cultivated edible plants (WNEPs) – collected from natural and semi-natural environments for the purpose of human consumption – have received little attention despite their significant contributions to the sustenance and livelihoods of mountain communities. This paper explores the use of these plant species by local communities in Putao, Myanmar and the associated knowledge and management practices, including the various socio-economic factors that influence their use. It explores the contributions of WNEPs to livelihoods and human wellbeing: food and nutritional security, social security, income security, and health security among other things.