ETHNOBOTANY OF EDIBLE LEAFY PLANTS IN TACOTALPA, TABASCO, MEXICO

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.9734112427086

• Palavras-chave: chayas, cultura, alimento, etnobotánica

• Keywords: chayas, culture, food, ethnobotany, ethnobotany

• Abstract:

   In a diet based on corn, beans, squash and chili peppers, edible leaves provide a diversity of flavors and nutrients. In Mexico, several species known as "quelites" are cultivated or tolerated in the mountains of Tacotalpa, Tabasco. These species are known as "chayas". Despite their importance, chayas have been little studied in southeastern Mexico. In this sense, ethnobotanical studies can contribute to develop sustainable management plans for this resource, so the purpose of this work was to know the perception that Ch'ol families have about the use of chayas in Cuitláhuac, Tacotalpa, Tabasco. Sixty-eight structured interviews and five semi-structured interviews were conducted, as well as tours of ecosystems and agroecosystems in the community. Due to the influence of the Tsotsil communities of Chiapas, Cuitláhuac chayas are also known as vegetables. The interviewees recognized 14 species of chayas corresponding to botanical families Solanaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Fabaceae, Piperaceae Asteraceae and Brassicaceae. The best known and most consumed species are Cnidoscolus aconitifolius, Witheringia meiantha, Cnidoscolus chayamansa, Erythrina coralloides, Cestrum rasemosum, Solanum americanum, Piper auritum, Senna fruticosa, and Manihot esculenta. They are regularly prepared boiled or fried, as a main ingredient or as an accompaniment. In addition to the edible use, the medicinal use of almost all species is mentioned. In the perception of the interviewees, chayas provide vitamins and are healthy. Most chayas are harvested from the bush or milpa, although some can be found in home gardens, and others are acquired through purchase. Chayas are an important element in the diet of the inhabitants of the Tabasco highlands, as they are widely consumed and valued because they represent a source of food and economy, are abundant, are rooted in the local culture, are useful for remedies, and are healthy.