Studies were conducted on two rattan species of the North East India, Calamus
flagellum Griff. ex Mart. and C. floribundus Griff. (Arecaceae), to know the nutrient value
of the shoots. In general, the rattan species studied contain considerable amounts of protein,
carbohydrate, fibres, vitamins and minerals. When compared to other palm shoots and
bamboo shoots the level of sodium and fat are very low. The level of Vitamin B complex
was at par with other leafy vegetables and bamboo species. Phosphorous content was also
more in rattans than in the leafy vegetables. Nutritional features of rattan shoots make them
an excellent source of dietary supplements to local people. The rattans can be promoted
among farmers as under storey crops in an agroforestry system and in shifting cultivation to
provide enhanced livelihood options. Large scale cultivation of edible Rattans with
community participation will reduce the pressures on harvesting from the wild and promote
conservation of the rich diversity of Rattans in India.
Keywords: Agroforestry, Calamus, dietary fibres, edible shoots, lowering
cholesterol, niacin, nutrient, Rattans, thiamine.
