Wisdom of Seed Preservation and Utilization from Folk Plants of Karen: A Case Study of Yangkaew Village, Omkoi District, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Abstract

The objectives of this research were to: 1) explore and correct the wisdom of folk seed preservation of Karen; and 2) study the utilization from folk plant of Karen at Yangkaew village. This research was conducted using a mixed methods research. The sample of this research consisted of 80 Karen households which taken with secondary information, interview, survey and observation. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics. The results showed that the folk seed preservation had 4 process including: 1) shade drying, 2) sun drying, 3) smokedrying, and 4) drying and keeping in the ash processes. Dried seeds can be stored for 6 to 24 months. The seed-germination rates were 70-100%. There were 25 species of folk seeds which increased from 18 species in the past. The most seed preservation process was sun drying process (68%). The utilization from folk plants can be divided into 4 types including side dishes with chili paste, daily food element, snack and fruit, and rituals in a lifestyle.