RESEARCH INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE OF THE THAI ETHNIC PEOPLE ON BITTER VEGETABLES (Elatostema lineolatum) IN MUONG KIM COMMUNE, LAI CHAU PROVINCE

Abstract

The study results indicated that Elatostema lineolatum is a small herbaceous plant with a creeping or slightly erect growth habit, reaching a height of approximately 20 - 70 cm. The species is monoecious, bearing separate male and female flowers on the same individual. Young leaves are from 1.2 - 3.8 cm in length and 0.8 - 2.4 cm in width, while mature leaves range from 4.5 - 7.4 cm in length and 2.4 - 4.9 cm in width. Ecologically, E. lineolatum commonly occurs in regenerating natural forests as well as in medium and rich natural forest stands. It typically grows in moist habitats with humus-rich soils among rock crevices. Phytochemical analysis showed that saponins accounted for 4.18%, flavonoids for 3.43%, and organic acids (including gallic, oxalic, and acetic acids) for 2.38%. Indigenous knowledge of the Thai ethnic community, obtained through interviews, indicated that 80% of respondents were aware of and had used the plant, while 62.22% reported knowledge of its preparation and processing methods. All respondents (100%) stated that the plant is used as a food source. Additionally, 86.67% reported its use in traditional medicine, including preparation as a decoction for drinking.