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Therapeutic uses of edible plants in Bangalore city, India: combining health with cooking practices through home herbal gardens

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Abstract

This article examines the therapeutic uses and perceptions of edible plants cultivated in home herbal gardens in the city of Bangalore, Southern India. We suggest that an examination of edible plants within a therapeutic context facilitates a more comprehensive understanding of the role that plants play both in the diet and in the health of urban populations such as in Bangalore. We conclude by reinforcing the importance of promoting awareness of the combined value of medicinal and edible plants through their cultivation in home gardens and the role of local health knowledge in health promotion.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Sociology, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton Campus, Tilley Hall, Room 20, 9 Macaulay Lane, P.O. Box 4400, Fredericton, NB, E3B 5A3, Canada

    Maria Costanza Torri

  2. Ontario Health Human Resources Research Network, University of Ottawa, Pavillon Roger Guindon, 451, Smyth Road, Rm. 1118, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada

    Daniel Hollenberg

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  1. Maria Costanza Torri
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Correspondence to Maria Costanza Torri.

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Torri, M.C., Hollenberg, D. Therapeutic uses of edible plants in Bangalore city, India: combining health with cooking practices through home herbal gardens. Environ Dev Sustain 14, 303–319 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10668-011-9324-6

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