The contribution of wild plants to human nutrition in the Ferlo (Northern Senegal)

One aspect of agroforestry is the integration of indigenous species into appropriate land use systems. Some local trees and shrubs are particularly appreciated because of their value in human nutrition. The Ferlo is the most arid part of Senegal, covered by open woodland. The local population is using several indigenous plants for food. Most important are Adansonia digitata, Balanites aegyptiaca and Ziziphus mauritiana, as well as Boscia senegalensis and Cassia obtusifolia. Some 20 more species are consumed to a smaller extent. Their main function is to supply the vitamins A, B₂ and C, for which seasonal shortages occur. About 50% of all plants growing in the Ferlo have edible parts, but only the most common ones are consumed. Further exploitation of these natural resources and their conscious integration into agroforestry systems is economically and ecologically recommendable.