Food, medicinal and ecological significance of Dioscorea bulbifera (Dioscoreaceae)

Dioscorea bulbifera is a is a wild edible tuberous twiner belonging to the family Dioscoreaceae. Tuber of D. bulbifera is supplement wild food crop, widely distributed around the world. It contains a significant amount of carbohydrates, starch, sugar, proteins, lipids, vitamins, minerals, fiber, etc. It is extensively used to treat diverse diseases and disorders. The tribal communities use the tubers of D. bulbifera as a source of nutrition. Considering its importance, an attempt has been made to document the morphological characters, ethnomedicinal, and food values of D. bulbifera to explore its nutraceutical values, which will be helpful during food crises