An overview of the principal knowledge and uses of the Edible Wild Plants in central Italy (Umbria region): an example of local Biodiversity conservation

The objectives for sustainable development for 2015-2030 give propulsion to the Age of Sustainable Development and to the strengthening of the Circular Economy. This paper focuses attention on local traditions and uses of edible wild plants (EWPs) in the Umbria Region, Central Italy. Data collection was carried out by means of ad hoc questionnaires in which the informants supplied information regarding local names, collection sites, collection period in months, parts used, taste perception and medicinal properties/uses. The results showed that the most commonly used parts were the leaves, bitterness was the commonest flavour, and the commonest uses were as components in salads or else boiled and eaten as cooked greens. Other uses included ludic uses derived from childhood memories as well as numerous medicinal uses