Medicinal plant wealth of Krishna District, Andhra Pradesh: Survey
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Medicinal plant wealth of krishna district (andhra pradesh) – a preliminary survey
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The paper presents a preliminary survey of medicinal plants in the Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh, India, highlighting the diversity and potential for cultivation of these plants. This region, known for its varied geographical features, including hilly tracts, mangroves, and cultivated fields, serves as a natural habitat for numerous medicinal species. The author collected data during 1983-1986 and documented 38 species across 38 genera from 23 families, mainly through interactions with local herbalists and indigenous communities such as the Chenchues and Yerukals.
Importance of Medicinal Flora
One key aspect of this study is the identification and listing of several important medicinal plants, along with their local names and uses. For instance, plants like Adhatoda zeylanica, known locally as "adds saramu," are cultivated for their cough-relieving properties and effectiveness in asthma treatments. Similarly, Abrus precatorius (Gurivinda) serves as a purgative and is utilized for nervous disorders and crude abortions. The documentation of these plants is vital for preserving traditional knowledge of herbal medicine, which can greatly benefit pharmaceutical industries by offering potential sources for natural remedies.
Conclusion
The survey underscores the rich medicinal plant wealth in Krishna district and emphasizes the urgency for systematic cultivation and conservation of these species to meet the growing demands of the pharmaceutical sector. With no prior comprehensive data on the medicinal flora of the area, this research serves as a foundational step for future studies and sustainable utilization of plant resources. Acknowledgments are made to the supporting individuals and institutions that facilitated the research, highlighting the collaborative effort needed for successful botanical surveys.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
P. Venkanna
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Medicinal plant wealth of krishna district (andhra pradesh) – a preliminary survey
Year: 1990
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the focus of the survey conducted in Krishna district?
The survey focuses on the medicinal plants of Krishna district in Andhra Pradesh, documenting their species, uses, and local names after consultations with local herbal doctors and communities.
How many medicinal plant species were documented in the survey?
A total of 38 species belonging to 38 genera within 23 families were documented in the preliminary survey conducted from the Krishna district.
What are some habitats where these medicinal plants were found?
Medicinal plants were found in various habitats including dry mixed deciduous forests, thorny scrub, plains, waste lands, and cultivated fields in and around the Krishna district.
Who provided assistance and guidance during the medicinal plant survey?
The author expressed gratitude to Prof. Rolla S. Rao for suggestions and Dr. K. Lakshminarayana for guidance, along with financial support from the Botanical Survey of India.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Medicinal plant wealth of Krishna District, Andhra Pradesh: Survey”. 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) Krishna (Kṛṣṇā, Kṛṣṇa):
Krishna district is a significant geographical area in Andhra Pradesh known for its rich diversity of medicinal plants. The surrounding forests, particularly in Kondapalle, provide a habitat for various species used in traditional medicine, influencing local culture and practices regarding health and wellness through herbal remedies.
2) Soil:
The soil types in Krishna district, including deltaic alluvial, red, and coastal sandy soils, play a crucial role in the growth of medicinal plants. Different plants thrive in various soil conditions, impacting their medicinal properties, availability, and utility in local traditional medicine practices.
3) Blood:
Several species of medicinal plants listed in the survey have properties linked to blood health, including purification and management of conditions like dysentery. For example, roots of Tinospora cordifolia are used for chronic conditions affecting the blood, reflecting their importance in traditional therapies.
4) Pala (Palā, Pāla):
In the context of the Krishna district's medicinal flora, 'Pala' refers to the local name for specific plants, indicating their cultural relevance and usage in traditional medicine. The term represents the regional knowledge associated with the healing properties of these plants.
5) Tuberculosis:
Certain plants mentioned in the survey, such as Tinospora cordifolia, are noted for their use in treating tuberculosis. This reflects the reliance on indigenous knowledge systems and the significance of local flora in managing health conditions that are prevalent in the region.
6) Swelling:
Medicinal plants, including those listed, are often utilized to reduce swelling, a common symptom associated with various ailments. The knowledge about these plants' anti-inflammatory properties indicates the deep-rooted understanding of natural remedies in the local health practices of Krishna district.
7) Hanuman (Hanumat, Hanūmat, Hanumān, Hanūmān):
Hanuman Junction is a locality in Krishna district where specific medicinal plants, such as Kaka palla (Tylophora indica), thrive. The connection of localities to particular plants illustrates the interplay between geography and traditional medicine, showcasing how locations influence herbal knowledge.
8) Tinospora cordifolia:
Tinospora cordifolia, also known as Guduchi, is a significant medicinal plant in traditional medicine, used for cough, dysentery, and rejuvenation. Its presence in the Krishna district highlights the importance of locally available plants in treating chronic health conditions and enhancing wellness.
9) Azadirachta indica:
Azadirachta indica, or neem, is widely recognized for its medicinal properties, especially in treating skin diseases and as an insect repellent. Its prevalence in dry areas of Krishna district underscores its adaptability and the community's reliance on neem for various health applications.
10) Withania somnifera:
Withania somnifera, commonly known as ashwagandha, is utilized for its adaptogenic properties, aiding in stress relief and managing conditions such as asthma and fever. Its rarity in the Kolleru lake area points to the significance of localized flora in broader medicinal practices.
11) Abrus precatorius:
Abrus precatorius, or rosary pea, is known for its purgative properties and uses in treating nervous disorders. Its commonality along hedges in Krishna district reflects the therapeutic value placed on local plant species by herb practitioners and the importance of regional flora.
12) Gloriosa superba:
Gloriosa superba, also known as flame lily, indicates its use in medicinal abortions. The cultural significance and applications of this plant demonstrate the intertwining of local traditions, practices, and the exploitation of the diverse plant wealth available in the Krishna district.
13) Ricinus communis:
Ricinus communis, or castor bean, is recognized for its medicinal oil, used as a purgative. Cultivated around Kondapalle, the species exemplifies the relationship between agriculture and traditional medicine, underscoring how local crops contribute to health remedies.
14) Purification:
In medicinal contexts, purification often refers to processes involving detoxification or cleansing the body of impurities. Various plants, including those listed in Krishna district, are known for such properties, aligning with traditional practices focusing on holistic well-being and health maintenance.
15) Inflammation:
Medicinal plants found in the Krishna district are frequently employed to treat inflammation. For instance, the anti-inflammatory properties of certain species align with local health approaches aimed at alleviating conditions characterized by swelling and pain.
16) Punarnava (Punarnavā, Punarṇava, Punar-nava):
Punarnava, or Boerhavia diffusa, is a plant recognized for its diuretic properties and role in managing jaundice and other conditions. Its prevalence in the region emphasizes the importance of native flora in local health practices and traditional knowledge.
17) Debility:
Debility, relating to weakness or a lack of strength, is addressed in traditional medicine through various plants like Withania somnifera, noted for rejuvenation. The local practices reflect an understanding of using specific herbs to combat general weakness in individuals.
18) Epilepsy:
Epilepsy is treated with various plants listed in the survey. The presence of Martynia annua for treating epilepsy illustrates how the local flora is utilized to address neurological conditions within traditional healing practices.
19) Kashinda (Kāśindā):
Kasinda refers to Cassia occidentalis, a plant used for its medicinal properties, particularly treating skin diseases and convulsions in children. Its local name and medicinal use reflect the community’s reliance on indigenous plants for health and healing.
20) Habitat:
The variety of habitats in Krishna district supports a diverse range of medicinal plants. From dry deciduous forests to wetlands, the environmental conditions directly influence the availability and growth of these species, highlighting their ecological significance.
21) Science (Scientific):
The survey represents a scientific approach to cataloging and understanding the medicinal plant wealth in Krishna district. Recognizing the value of botanical knowledge in traditional medicine showcases the intersection of science and cultural practices in healthcare.
22) Botany:
Botany, the scientific study of plants, is foundational to understanding the medicinal properties and applications of the flora in Krishna district. The documentation of species highlights the importance of botany in preserving traditional knowledge and promoting biodiversity.
23) Manci (Mañcī, Māñci, Mamci, Mañci):
Manchi pertains to local vernacular associated with specific plants, such as Manchi thulasi (Ocimum tenuiflorum). These terms reflect cultural significance and the intimate relationship communities have with their surrounding flora.
24) Nabhi (Nābhi, Nābhī):
Nabhi refers to the local name for Gloriosa superba in the Krishna district. This name not only indicates its cultural context and use but also underscores the importance of local nomenclature in the study of botany and traditional medicine.
25) Pindi (Piṇḍī, Piṇḍi, Pimdi):
Pindi refers to Aerva lanata locally. The mention of local names and their medicinal uses illustrates how traditional cultures document and utilize plant resources for health benefits within the community.
26) Ulcer:
The presence of plants with medicinal properties relevant to treating ulcers indicates the community's knowledge. For example, Eclipta prostrate is recognized for its use against ulcers, showcasing traditional medicine's role in addressing common health issues.
27) Tata (Tāta, Taṭa, Taṭā, Tātā, Ṭāṭā):
Thada specifically relates to Helictres isora, which is used to reduce blood motions. The local association with specific plants shows the deep understanding of their properties and reinforces the value of vernacular names in traditional medicine.
28) Kaka (Kāka, Kākā, Kakā):
Kaka pertains to Tylophora indica, a plant noted for its use in treating respiratory conditions such as asthma. The local names encapsulate the community’s relationship with the flora, providing insights into the regional medicinal practices.
29) Worm:
Medicinal plants in Krishna district, like Aerva lanata and Asystasia gangetica, are recognized for their anthelmintic properties. The local knowledge of using specific plants to treat worm infestations reflects the significance of traditional remedies in managing health.