Rambai (Baccaurea sapida): A prospective lesser-known fruit with the potential to uplift the socio-economic conditions of rural communities in West Bengal

Abstract

Rambai (Baccaurea sapida) an underutilized fruit species, is grown in marginal lands of West Bengal. It is commonly known as lotka, lotkon or bugi in Bengali locally and commonly grown in Southern and Northern zone viz., Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri, Darjeeling districts. Being a highly economical species for the local inhabitants and rural people, it is commercially grown by them in a large scale. Rambai fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals, fibers, and pharmacologically significant substances such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, and terpenes. They contain low amounts of carotenoids, making them effective in preventing malnutrition among rural populations. The fruit has been reported to be beneficial in heart disease, as its high potassium content is associated with lower stroke risk and reduced blood pressure. Rambai also aids in the treatment of constipation, while various parts of the plant are utilized to treat conditions like arthritis, abscesses, and injuries. Given its substantial importance, prioritizing the cultivation of this crop can contribute to nutritional security and improve the socio-economic conditions of impoverished rural communities. Therefore, comprehensive information on various aspects of this crop, including its medicinal properties, nutritional value, cultivation practices, etc., has been compiled to fully exploit the potential of this underutilized fruit crop.