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Traditional and modern plant use among the Alyawara of central Australia

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Abstract

This is a descriptive summary of information on traditional and modern uses of native plants by Alyawara-speaking Australian Aborigines. It includes data on 157 species, 92 of which are used for food, 28 for medicines and narcotics, and 10 in the manufacture of tools, weapons and other gear. Descriptions of food plants cover form and distribution, collecting and processing techniques, caloric yields, and dietary importance. The paper concludes with some comments on traditional plant cultivation practices.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Anthropology, University of Utah, 84112, Salt Lake City, UT

    James F. O’Connell & Peggy Barnett

  2. Conservation Commission of the Northern Territory, 5750, Alice Springs, Northern Territory, Australia

    Peter K. Latz

Authors
  1. James F. O’Connell
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  2. Peter K. Latz
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  3. Peggy Barnett
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O’Connell, J.F., Latz, P.K. & Barnett, P. Traditional and modern plant use among the Alyawara of central Australia. Econ Bot 37, 80–109 (1983). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02859310

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