Study of medicinal plants in Holy Cross College, Tiruchirappalli.

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Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Study of vegetation and their medicinal properties inside the holy cross college campus, tiruchirappalli district, tamilnadu, india
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Author:

Elavarasi Siddhaiyan, Horne Iona Averal, Hemasri Devadoss, Rajeswari Muruga,Gunavathi Gnanasekar and Mogana Jothi Moorthi


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Study of vegetation and their medicinal properties inside the holy cross college campus, tiruchirappalli district, tamilnadu, india

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20181-10523

Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved


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Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The vegetation present in India is diverse and rich, influenced by varying climatic conditions and ecosystems. The Holy Cross College campus in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, provides a unique opportunity to explore urban green spaces and the medicinal properties of local flora. A study conducted from December 2016 to February 2017 aimed to document plant species on the campus and investigate their medicinal uses. Through field surveys, researchers identified 56 plant species belonging to 55 genera and 36 families, with findings highlighting significant families such as Arecaceae and Lamiaceae, as well as the need for conservation of these vital green spaces in urban settings.

Medicinal Plant Diversity

The study revealed a diverse range of medicinal plants on the Holy Cross College campus, showcasing the richness of local biodiversity. Of the 56 recorded species, a majority were trees (55.4%), followed by shrubs (23.2%), herbs (17.8%), and climbers (3.6%). The medicinal plants serve various therapeutic purposes, utilizing different plant parts such as roots, leaves, seeds, and flowers. Traditional remedies play a crucial role in healthcare, particularly in rural areas of Tamil Nadu, contributing to treatments for a wide array of ailments from diabetes to infections. This diversity not only indicates a wealth of herbal knowledge but also underscores the ecological importance of preserving such medicinal flora for future generations.

Importance of Conservation

As urbanization continues to grow, the preservation of green spaces like the Holy Cross College campus becomes critical. The study emphasizes the necessity of conserving local biodiversity in the context of rapid land use changes faced by cities. The findings provide baseline data that can aid in conservation efforts while fostering ecological balance within the region. By maintaining these natural habitats, the college campus not only serves as an educational facility but also as a vital ecological area that supports both biodiversity and medicinal plant conservation.

Ecological and Economic Benefits

Plants are integral to the sustainable utilization of biological resources; they not only provide medicinal benefits but also support the local economy. By documenting the medicinal uses of locally sourced plants, the study advocates for the importance of traditional knowledge and its potential contribution to economic growth within communities. The varieties of plant species identified can also enhance local ecosystems, offering numerous ecosystem services such as air purification, soil stabilization, and climate regulation, which are crucial for urban environments.

Conclusion

In summary, the study of the vegetation within the Holy Cross College campus highlights the rich diversity of medicinal plants and emphasizes the importance of conservation efforts in urban green spaces. With a Shannon-Weiner Index of 3.286, the findings suggest a healthy variety of plant life that is not only beneficial for human health but also plays a significant role in environmental sustainability. The documentation of these species calls for greater awareness and proactive steps toward the conservation of both the flora and the ecological integrity of such urban areas, ensuring access to herbal remedies and environmental benefits for future generations.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What was the aim of the study in Holy Cross College?

The study aimed to determine the vegetation and identify the medicinal properties of plants within the Holy Cross College campus in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India, conducted from December 2016 to February 2017.

How many plant species were documented in the study?

The survey documented 56 species belonging to 55 genera and 36 families, with dominant families including Arecaceae and Lamiaceae, comprising a variety of trees, shrubs, herbs, and climbers.

What is the significance of urban green spaces?

Urban green spaces are crucial for biodiversity conservation, ecosystem services, and public well-being, especially as urbanization intensifies and natural habitats diminish.

What is the Shannon-Weiner index value reported?

The Shannon-Weiner index was calculated to be 3.286, indicating a relatively high level of species diversity within the vegetation of the Holy Cross College campus.

What types of medicinal uses were recorded in the study?

Various parts of medicinal plants were documented for uses including wound healing, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties, highlighting their importance in traditional medicine.

What is the importance of conserving vegetation in college campuses?

Conserving vegetation in college campuses is essential for maintaining ecological balance, supporting biodiversity, and providing educational opportunities about environmental conservation for students and the community.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Study of medicinal plants in Holy Cross College, Tiruchirappalli.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Tree:
Plural of tree, indicating multiple such organisms. The study emphasizes the prevalence of trees on the Holy Cross College campus, recognizing their role in enhancing biodiversity, contributing to the ecological balance, and providing numerous medicinal resources.

2) Campu:
Refers to the Holy Cross College campus, which is an urban green space studied for its vegetation and medicinal properties. The campus serves as a vital area for biodiversity conservation, educational activities, and recreational purposes, enhancing the surrounding local ecosystem.

3) Species:
A group of organisms that are capable of interbreeding and producing fertile offspring. The study documented 56 species of plants within the campus, highlighting the importance of plant diversity for ecological balance and the potential medicinal benefits inherent to these species.

4) Activity:
Refers to the medicinal activities associated with the plant species in the study. Many plants possess various biological activities that can help treat ailments, providing evidence of their efficacy in traditional medicine and contributing to overall health and wellness.

5) Study (Studying):
An investigation aimed at examining the flora of the Holy Cross College campus and documenting the medicinal properties of the identified plants. The study emphasizes the importance of conservation, recognizing how such research can contribute to the knowledge of biodiversity and medicinal resources.

6) India:
A country with vast biodiversity and a rich tradition in herbal medicine. The study focuses on a college in India, analyzing the native and exotic plant species that have been utilized for medicinal purposes, reinforcing the significance of indigenous knowledge and natural resources.

7) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Substances that inhibit the growth of or kill bacteria. The presence of antibiotic properties in certain plants signifies their potential utility in treating bacterial infections and promoting health.

8) Disease:
Conditions that negatively affect health; in the study, various plants are noted for their medicinal properties that can treat specific diseases, highlighting their importance in traditional medicine practices.

9) Indian:
Pertaining to India, where traditional medicine and herbal treatments have deep historical roots. The plants studied are significant within the context of Indian culture and medicine, providing insights into age-old practices that utilize native flora for health and healing.

10) Field:
Referring to the outdoors or specific areas where ecological studies and surveys are conducted. In this study, field surveys were essential for identifying and documenting the medicinal plants present on the Holy Cross College campus.

11) Blood:
An essential fluid in the body that circulates through the heart and blood vessels, carrying oxygen and nutrients. Certain plants documented in the study have properties that can influence blood health, such as those used for managing blood sugar levels.

12) Family:
In biological classification, it denotes a higher taxonomic category grouping closely related genera. The study categorized the documented plants into families, aiding in understanding their relationship, diversity, and potential uses in medicine.

13) Fever:
A common medical symptom indicating illness, often requiring treatment. Certain plants mentioned in the study possess properties to help alleviate fever, highlighting their relevance in traditional herbal treatments for common ailments.

14) Tamilnadu (Tamil-nadu):
The proper spelling of the state name where Holy Cross College is located, significant for its diverse flora and long-standing traditions in herbal and medicinal practices. The study provides insights into the plant diversity specific to this region.

15) Habitat:
Natural environments where plant and animal species thrive. The study emphasizes the habitats present on the Holy Cross College campus, stressing the need for their conservation.

16) Science (Scientific):
The systematic study of the nature and behavior of the physical and natural world. The findings of the research contribute to the scientific understanding of plant species, their ecological roles, and their medicinal properties.

17) Cancer:
A disease characterized by uncontrolled cell growth. Several plants listed in the study have properties attributed to cancer treatment potential, showcasing the importance of plant-derived compounds in modern medicine.

18) Table:
A method of organizing data for clarity and comparison. In the study, a table lists various plant species along with their medicinal uses, making it easier to access and analyze the information gathered.

19) Tamil:
Language and ethnicity associated with the people of the state of Tamil Nadu, and a significant aspect of the culture tied to the traditional knowledge of local medicinal plants and their uses.

20) Genu:
An informal term; however, in the context of biology, a synonym of genus, contributing to the classification and understanding of organisms in the study.

21) Nadu:
Part of the name Tamil Nadu, emphasizing the cultural and geographical context of the study's location, important for understanding local biodiversity and traditional medicine practices.

22) Hair:
Referring to properties associated with certain plants that can be used for hair health. Some plants documented in the study may have applications in traditional cosmetics for hair care.

23) Inflammation:
A biological response to harmful stimuli, often leading to pain and discomfort. Some plant species mentioned in the study are recognized for their anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to healing and treatment methods in traditional practices.

24) Medicine:
Substances used to treat diseases. The study emphasizes the rich variety of medicinal plants available on the Holy Cross College campus, providing insight into their applications in health care.

25) Vomiting:
The act of expelling contents from the stomach, which can indicate illness. Certain plants documented in the study are noted for their use in treating conditions associated with vomiting.

26) Coconut (Cocoanut):
A tree known for its multiple uses, including food and medicinal properties. It plays an essential role in traditional medicine and is one of the species identified in the study for its health benefits.

27) Zoology:
The scientific study of animals. Though not directly the focus of the study, an understanding of zoology complements plant studies by showing how animal life interacts with vegetation in ecosystems.

28) Vetiver:
A grass known for its aromatic properties as well as medicinal benefits. It is one of the plants mentioned in the study, used traditionally for a variety of treatments.

29) Jasmine:
A fragrant flowering plant, appreciated for its aromatic and medicinal value. The study notes its inclusion among the college campus flora, highlighting its cultural significance.

30) Trichy:
Short for Tiruchirappalli, the city where Holy Cross College is located. Trichy provides a unique context for studying urban biodiversity and how educational institutions contribute to conservation.

31) Costus:
Referring to a plant genus noted for specific medicinal properties. The presence of Costus in the study showcases the diversity of flora and its therapeutic potentials.

32) Nelli:
Commonly known as Indian gooseberry; a valued medicinal plant in the study noted for its health benefits. Its inclusion reflects the significance of regional flora in traditional medicine.

33) Maram:
A Tamil term meaning tree, indicating the local vocabulary associated with plants in the study. This context emphasizes the cultural significance of understanding botanical terms used by local people.

34) Sugar:
Referring to sweetness derived from plants, often tied to medicinal uses. The study could reflect on the carbohydrate-rich components found in certain species having health implications.

35) Ulcer:
A sore or lesion on a mucous membrane. Certain plants documented in the study are recognized for their potential in alleviating or treating ulcers through traditional remedies.

36) Burning (Burn, Burned, Burnt):
Another term for burns, indicating heat-induced injuries. Plants in the study that are applied as topical treatments showcase their role in traditional healing practices.

37) Musha (Musa, Musá):
The genus name for banana. The presence of this plant in the study highlights its nutritional and medicinal significance, particularly in the traditional food system and local healthcare.

38) Uren:
Possibly a reference to 'urens' in specific contexts; in taxonomy, this refers to species of specific plants or their characteristics. The study may highlight such plant details.

39) Pain:
A physical sensation indicating potential harm or disease. Many plants mentioned have medicinal properties that can help relieve pain, thus demonstrating their therapeutic significance.

40) Azadirachta indica:
The scientific name for the neem tree, well-known for its medicinal properties. It features prominently in the study due to its diverse applications in traditional medicine.

41) Bronchial asthma:
A condition affecting the airways, making breathing difficult. The study identifies plants used to alleviate symptoms of bronchial asthma, emphasizing the importance of herbal remedies in respiratory health.

42) Musa paradisiaca:
Refers to the plant species commonly known as the plantain, valued for its nutritional and medicinal properties. Its identification in the study highlights the use of local flora in health practices.

43) Mangifera indica:
The scientific name for the mango tree, whose fruits and leaves have various health benefits. The study underlines its significance as a staple food and medicinal plant.

44) Acacia catechu:
A species known for its medicinal properties, particularly in treating digestive issues. The study’s inclusion of this plant reflects its value in traditional remedies.

45) Spanish cherry:
Referring to Mimusops elengi, this species is noted for its medicinal properties in the study. It serves as an example of how local plants contribute to health.

46) Young girl:
Similar to the previous term, emphasizing the relevance of plant-based education in traditional healing practices for the health of young women.

47) Ficus religiosa:
The sacred fig tree, noted for its religious and medicinal significance. The presence of this species in the study highlights its multifaceted role in both culture and medicine.

48) Gmelina arborea:
A medicinal tree species recognized for various health applications. The study notes its potential uses, further emphasizing the significance of local biodiversity.

49) Mimusops elengi:
Identified as the Spanish cherry, this tree is valued for its medicinal contributions. The study highlights its importance within the ecosystem and traditional health practices.

50) Syzygium cumini:
Known as black plum, recognized for its beneficial properties in treating diabetes and digestive disorders. Its presence in the study reflects the significance of fruits in local diets.

51) Citrus limon:
The lemon tree, noted for its health benefits and utility in traditional medicine. This species is included in the study as a representation of beneficial fruit plants.

52) Dysmenorrhea (Dysmenorrhoea):
Painful menstruation, a condition potentially alleviated by certain plants documented in the study. It reflects the significance of herbal remedies in women's health care.

53) Gajalakshmi (Gajalaksmi, Gaja-lakshmi):
A reference to a specific name in Tamil culture or potentially a researcher’s name within the study. Its relevance may lie in cultural or local contexts of the botanical study.

54) Jayalakshmi (Jayalaksmi, Jaya-lakshmi):
Similar to Gajalakshmi, this could be a cultural reference or a contributor’s name. It signifies the importance of assessing local contributions to the research outcomes.

55) Surrounding:
Referring to the areas adjacent to the primary study site. This term emphasizes the ecological connections between the college campus and the broader environment, including biodiversity.

56) Alleviation:
The act of relieving a condition. The study touches upon plants used for alleviating various health conditions, showcasing their importance in traditional medicine.

57) Snake-bite:
A direct reference to a medical condition caused by snake envenomation. The study may note plants used in remedies for managing symptoms associated with snake-bite incidents.

58) Discussion:
A section in research where findings are interpreted and implications explored. The study provides a discussion on the significance of the documented plant species and their roles in traditional medicine.

59) Education:
The process of imparting knowledge, emphasized within the context of the study. The findings can be used to educate local communities about the importance of plant conservation and their uses.

60) Bleeding:
Referring to the act of losing blood due to injury or condition. Some plants listed in the study are said to have properties that can alleviate bleeding or promote healing.

61) Richness:
Indicating the abundance and diversity of plant species within the study area. The richness of flora contributes significantly to ecosystem health and the availability of medicinal resources.

62) Tamarind:
A tropical fruit-bearing tree known for its tangy flavor and medicinal uses. The study highlights the presence of tamarind and its contributions to local diets and traditional medicine.

63) Vasanta (Vasamta):
In Indian context, the term can refer to spring; it might characterize a specific feature of local flora blooming during this season. The relevance could lie in the cultural symbolism associated with plants.

64) Margosa:
Another name for the neem tree, recognized for its medicinal properties. Its inclusion in the study highlights the importance of traditional knowledge surrounding this plant for health outcomes.

65) Kalyani (Kalyanin):
A name that may reflect cultural aspects associated with the plant species studied. It could signify importance to the local community or be related to health practices.

66) Leprosy:
A chronic infectious disease affecting skin and nerves. Some plants in the study have been referenced for their potential healing properties for leprosy, signifying their traditional health roles.

67) Itching:
A common symptom often associated with various skin conditions. The study may note plants that provide relief from itching, indicating their effectiveness in traditional treatments.

68) Anxiety:
A mental health condition characterized by excessive worry. The study includes plants recognized for their calming properties, contributing to mental well-being in traditional medicine applications.

69) Murti (Murtti):
A name that may denote cultural significance in the context of the study. This may highlight traditional botanical knowledge attributed to individuals or folklore related to the flora.

70) Bitter:
Describes a taste often linked to certain medicinal plants. The study's reference to bitter herbs underscores their therapeutic potential in traditional healing.

71) Forest:
Describes the concept in singular, emphasizing the need for preserving forested areas. The study implicitly connects the campus ecosystem to larger forest networks vital for biodiversity.

72) Silver:
May refer to either the color or specific plant species like Celosia argenta. The use of 'silver' in the plant context signifies its recognition for particular therapeutic applications.

73) Visit:
Refers to the act of going to various locations on the college campus for research purposes. Regular visits were conducted to gather accurate data about the vegetation present.

74) Priya:
A name that may link to cultural elements or researchers contributing to the study. Its inclusion may also emphasize the significance of community engagement in botanical research.

75) Kumar:
A common name in India that potentially relates to individuals associated with the study, symbolizing the contribution of local researchers to understanding the flora of the area.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 96]

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Study of medicinal plants in Holy Cross College, Tiruchirappalli.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Medicinal properties, Therapeutic agent, Economic growth, Ecological balance, Habitat loss, Sustainable utilization, Field survey, Biodiversity, Species Richness, Ornamental plant, Field visit, Herbal Remedie.

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