Vol. 12, Issue 6 (2023)

Author(s):
L. Mashine, Jome Rime, Suchand Datta, Sanasam Angousana, Ajoy Guragai and Ps. Mariam Anal

Abstract:
Sechium edule (Jacq.) Swartz is an underutilized crop under the family of cucurbits. Unlike the other members of the family, it is viviparous in nature which is its unique feature. From immature fruits to young leaves, shoots and tuberous roots almost all the different parts of the crop is consumed. Different dishes are prepared according to the regions and the ethnic groups, and also it is utilized in the food industry especially for the preparation of baby food due to its neutral taste. It is a highly nutritious crop with different bioactive compounds. Some ethnobotanical uses of the crop have been reported by different indigenous groups. For its production, it is traditionally produced in the backyard and empty patches, market gardens and in plantations with the use of seeds or the fruits. And the crop can withstand low temperature; however, the crop will be killed upon prolonged exposure to hard and frost climate.