Review on ethnobotanical knowledge and socio-economic value of Anchote (Coccinia abyssinica) cultivation and processing in major growing areas of Ethiopia

Anchote (Coccinia abyssinica (Lam.) Cogn.) is an indigenous and commonly cultivated root crop in Ethiopia that is highly valued for its nutritional, medicinal, and socioeconomic benefits. Despite its importance, the crop is still underutilized and understudied in terms of indigenous knowledge and traditional processing techniques. This review synthesizes existing indigenous knowledge on C. abyssinica cultivation, traditional food processing methods, socioeconomic role, and opportunities for enhancing its utilization. By systematically compiling published literature, technical reports, and academic works, this review provides a consolidated overview of the C. abyssinica’s ethnobotanical and socio-economic dimensions in its major growing regions of Ethiopia, particularly Oromia. The analysis focuses on its major growing regions in Ethiopia, particularly areas within the Oromia region, to draw context-specific conclusions and identify prevailing research gaps. The analysis confirms that C. abyssinica has deep cultural and traditional importance among local communities and has been cultivated for centuries using indigenous farming techniques. The crop is rich in essential nutrients, particularly calcium, and is an important dietary component. C. abyssinica plays an important role in household food security, income production, and cultural identity. Traditional processing procedures, such as boiling and drying improve its flavor and nutritional content. However, issues such as limited market access, a lack of superior cultivars, and dwindling cultivation all pose threats to its long-term viability. Strengthening conservation efforts and boosting value addition can help C. abyssinica play a bigger role in rural livelihoods and food security.