Medicinal Plants
India is renowned for its vast array of medicinal plants and herbs, with approximately 2,000 plant species documented in Ayurveda, and about 500 currently in common use. The World Conservation Union's Red List identifies 352 medicinal species, with 52 critically threatened and 49 endangered.
Key Medicinal Plants:
- Sarpagandha - Effective in treating blood pressure, unique to India.
- Jamun - Used for its diuretic properties and to manage diabetes.
- Arjun - Provides relief from earaches and regulates blood pressure.
- Babool - Cures eye sores and its gum acts as a tonic.
- Neem - Known for its antibiotic and antibacterial properties.
- Tulsi - Commonly used to alleviate coughs and colds.
- Kachnar - Aids in asthma and digestive issues.
Understanding these plants is vital for both health and biodiversity conservation.