Jharkhand lies between between 21°57′ to 25°14′ N latitude and 83°20′ to 87°58’E longitude. Ranchi is the capital of Jharkhand. The Tropic of cancer passes through Ranchi (near Ormanjhi). Jharkhand is a unique museum of nature. It contains hills, plateau, scarp, valley, rivers, water falls and passing through dense forests harbours variety of wild animals and is rich in medicinal plants as well as variety of tribes. Main languages spoken are Santhali, Mundari, Nagpuria, Kheria, Ho, Hindi, Urdu and Bengali.
Jharkhand, a state in eastern India, is renowned for its rich biodiversity and diverse flora. Among its natural treasures are numerous medicinal plants that have been used for centuries by indigenous communities for healing purposes. Let’s delve into the world of herbs plants of Jharkhand and explore their significance, benefits, and its usage.
Table of Contents
Hibiscus cancellatus
This plant is found in chhotanagpur in forests specially in Hills. Its root like radish.
Root is eaten as tonic in diabetes. Root and fruit in Jkarkhand used as a remedy in Syphilis. Tribal uses in dry cough. It is used to treat also in early ejaculation. Used by frying in ghee root without bark and mix with chilies.Leaves are used for treating diabetes, jaundice, cholera, asthma, diarrhea and dysentery. Its roots used for dysentery and diarrhea.
Seed used as flavoring for liqueurs and to scent coffee.Oil from plant used to flavor baked goods, ice cream, sweets, soft drinks.
Bombacaceae
This plant is found throughout Jharkhand, in cool valleys, roadside, gardens, parks, hill slopes tree, with large , thick, scarlet flowers when nearly leafless. It is also known as the Indian Kapok tree as it has fine silky kapok like fibres growing around its seed. This tree has flowering between January to March and fruiting between April to June. In Hindi its called Safed Simal, Huttian.
The tree also yields a gum which is sometimes used as a substitute for gum tragacanth and which is used in bookbinding, cosmetics and to thicken ice cream and medicine. It is said to be an aphrodisiac when taken with gur and cow’s milk. The gum is known as Mochras in India. It is said to have astringent properties and be good for diarrhea and dysentery, for female problems including irregular periods, to ease the pain of piles and to purify the blood among other remedies.
Dried leaves used in preventing kidney and bladder troubles. Powder applied externally in a variety of inflammatory conditions as a preventive of fever, for dysen or as a hip bath. This plant wood has antiseptic properties. Its bark is used as a substitute for quinine for curing fever.The young one or two year old roots are thought to be useful as a sex tonic and aphrodisiac.
They are called Semul (the local name of the tree) Musli and like other Muslis such as Safed Musli, they are used to stimulate the male libido. In some area the local healers or hakims prefer to gather the roots on Mondays, but why this should be so is not apparent. In traditional medicine in Myanmar the roots are given to cure impotency and to increase the sperm count. The bark of the tree is thought to help in cases of heart disease and spermatorrhoea. In India the bark is given with gur and milk for the same purposes.
Plumbago Zeylanica
Plumbago Zeylanica in ayurveda known as Chitrak is medicinal herb grown in Jharkhand land. Plant root contains many bioactive components responsible for most of its therapeutic properties.
In Ayurveda, the roots are used to treat migraine, jaundice, skin diseases, urinary calculi, seminal weakness, and internal abscesses. It is also used as a detoxicant, febrifuge, antiseptic, and antihelminthic. The root is used extensively in India and China to treat contusion of extremities, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and dysmenorrhea.
The roots contain an alkaloid called plumbagin. It is responsible for various therapeutic properties like antioxidant, antimalarial, antibiotic, antifertility, anticancer, and cardiotonic. According to an animal study, the root extract of Plumbago zeylanica reduced the blood cholesterol level and low-density lipoproteins (LDL)
Acacia Arabica
Acacia catechu also commonly called Mimosa catechu, is a deciduous, thorny tree which grows up to 15 m (50 ft) in height. The Acacia catechu is found in Asia, China, India and the Indian Ocean area.Common names for it include catechu, cachou, cutchtree, black cutch, and black catechu.It was often used to treat wounds in ancient times.
In Jharkhand it is found in Hazaribagh , Palamu area. Various plant parts used in sore mouth, chest pain, broncht, asthma and strangulation of intestine.
The plant root applied in joints in Palamu is useful in gout. Its gum-resin used in masticatories.
In Jharkhand it is found in Hazaribagh , Palamu area. Various plant parts used in sore mouth, chest pain, broncht, asthma and strangulation of intestine.
The plant root applied in joints in Palamu is useful in gout. Its gum-resin used in masticatories.
Centella Asiatica
Centella asiatica is also known as Brahma Manduki. It is found in Ranchi, Hazaribagh plateau, sides of nalas in the hills in Singhbhum, in wet places, in rice fields during rains. This plant is used in homeopathy, emplyed in ulceration of womb, eczema and in granular cervicitis.
This is house hold remedy of jaundice in Ranchi, Hazaribagh among local tribal. Useful in diseases of skins, leprosy, nerves and blood.This plant is variously used in Jharkhand, vegetable of entire plant is used to cure jaundice.The powder of this plant taken with honey morning and evening in empty stomach is prescribed in epilepsy , in fever due to cold.
Leaves taken as tonic for improving memory, useful in syphilitic skin diseases both internally and externally. Juice useful in cataract and other eye troubles , it also given in fever among children.Leaves used to cure severe headache.
Ampelocissus Latifolia
This plant found throughout Jharkhand, very common specially in low scrub jungles in Chhotanagpur, Rajmahal Hills, Hazaribagh.
Plant used in muscular pains, sores, pneum, snakebite and bone fracture. Tender leaves juice used in dental trouble and as detergent for indolent ulcers.
Its root applied to wounds, decoct and applied in bone fracture.Plant stem bark given in stomach pain.
Andrographis Paniculata
This plant is found throughtout Jharkhand specially on cleared stony lines in the forest. This plant has white or pale purple flowers or spotted purple.
Plant taste is very bitter. Plant extract used as medicine for liver and also given in diar, convulsions and epilepsy by Santhals. Plant used in spleen complaints, strangulation of intestine, diar and cholera.
It is domestice medicine for flatulence and diar of children, as blood purifier againts boils. Plant chief contituent of an Ayurvedic drug ” SG-I Switradi lepa” for dermatological diseases.
Future Prospects
As we delve deeper into the intricate tapestry of Jharkhand’s botanical heritage, it becomes evident that the journey has just begun. With concerted efforts towards conservation, research, and sustainable utilization, the potential of medicinal plants in the region is limitless. By embracing traditional wisdom while embracing modern scientific advancements, we can pave the way for a healthier, more sustainable future rooted in the healing power of nature.
In conclusion, Jharkhand stands as a testament to the profound connection between humans and plants, offering a glimpse into the age-old wisdom of traditional medicine. As we strive to preserve and harness the potential of medicinal plants, let us not only heal our bodies but also nurture our bond with the natural world that sustains us.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Are medicinal plants of Jharkhand safe to use?
- Yes, when used responsibly and under expert guidance, medicinal plants are generally safe and effective.
- Can medicinal plants replace modern medicine?
- While medicinal plants offer valuable therapeutic benefits, they are not always a substitute for modern medical treatment. It’s essential to consult healthcare professionals for serious health concerns.
- How can I identify medicinal plants in the wild?
- Identifying medicinal plants requires knowledge of botanical characteristics and expertise. It’s advisable to seek guidance from experienced herbalists or botanists.
- Are there any side effects of using medicinal plants?
- Some medicinal plants may have side effects or interactions with medications. It’s crucial to research and consult healthcare providers before using them.
- Where can I find medicinal plants of Jharkhand for purchase?
- Medicinal plants can be sourced from reputable nurseries, herbal stores, or online platforms specializing in herbal products.
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