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Ecology & Environment
Mahesh

11/12/22 11:53 AM IST

Himalayan Medicinal Plants

In News
  • Three medicinal plant species found in the Himalayas have made it to IUCN Red List of Threatened Species following a recent assessment.
  • These are Meizotropis pellita (critically endangered), Fritilloria cirrhosa (vulnerable) and Dactylorhiza hatagirea (endangered).
About Meizotropis pellita
  • Meizotropis pellita is commonly known as Patwa. It is a perennial shrub that is found only in Uttarakhand.
  • The species was listed as critically endangered in the IUCN List based on its limited area of occupation (less than 10 square kilometres).
  • Its survival is currently under threat because of deforestation, habitat fragmentation and wildfires.
  • The essential oil extracted from the leaves of Patwa is found to have strong antioxidants.
Fritillaria cirrhosa
  • Fritillaria cirrhosa (Himalayan fritillary) is a perennial bulbous herb.
  • According to the study, a decline of at least 30% of its population over the assessment period (22 to 26 years).
  • Considering the rate of decline, long generation length, poor germination potential, high trade value, extensive harvesting pressure and illegal trade, the species is listed as ‘vulnerable’.
  • In China, the species is used for the treatment of bronchial disorders and pneumonia.
  • The plant is also a strong cough suppressant.
Dactylorhiza hatagirea
  • The third listed species, Dactylorhiza hatagirea (Salampanja), is threatened by habitat loss, livestock grazing, deforestation, and climate change.
  • It is extensively used in Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani and other alternative systems of medicine to cure dysentery, gastritis, chronic fever, cough and stomach aches.
  • It is a perennial tuberous species endemic to the Hindu Kush and Himalayan ranges of Afghanistan, China, India, Nepal, and Pakistan.
Source- The Hindu

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