Issue 1, March 2024

The current study aims to document the diversity of fodder species, their availability and role in livestock sustenance in the Nalagarh Forest Division of Himachal Pradesh. 117 fodder-providing species belonging to 41 families were documented, out of which 40% were trees, 15% shrubs, 40% herbs, and 4% climbers. Poaceae, Fabaceae, Asteraceae, Malvaceae and Moraceae were dominant families of fodder species in the area. The recorded species were analysed for pressure use index (PUI) value. Species like Moringa oleifera, Ougeinia oojeinensis, Bridelia retusa, Albizia chinensis, Diospyros montana, Ficus auriculata, F. palmata, F. racemosa, F. semicordata, Grewia asiatica, G. optiva and Vachellia leucophloea recorded the highest PUI value, indicating a higher preference for fodder, and are thus found to be crucial from the conservation point of view.

Agarwood is a resinous heartwood of various species of Thymelaeaceae and, one of its common use is incense, wherein the resin-loaded chips and compressed dust are burnt over heated charcoal or glowing embers to release the smoke. The effect of this smoke on human health is discussed in the review. While the smoke has been found to benefit neurological issues, it has been found detrimental to the pulmonary and cardiovascular system, besides being carcinogenic. There is a need for study to mitigate the ill effects while harnessing the therapeutic benefits of agarwood incense.

Celastrus paniculatus, known as Malkangani is a species with high economic and medicinal potential commonly. It has been reported as endangered in central India and shows poor germination under natural conditions. Therefore, the need to select promising seed sources for producing high-quality seeds and enhance the germination percentage is evident. The objective of present work, was to evaluate the effects of different seed sources on seed morphometric traits, germination parameters and early seedling growth in C. paniculatus. Pre-sowing treatments of 0.5%, 0.7% and 1.0% H₂SO₄ were tested on germination parameters in each seed source, followed by evaluation of seedling growth. Oil percentage ranged from 35.45 to 69.34% with Jashpur seed source having maximum oil percentage in extraction with petroleum ether. The range of germination percentage was from 30.63 to 43.13% with Marvahi seed source exhibiting maximum germination in 0.7% H₂SO₄ pretreatment. Early seedling growth performance indicated that Jashpur seed source produced highest number of shoots in 0.5% H₂SO₄ treatment. Highest number of roots were recorded in seedlings of Dhamtari in control. The findings of this experiment can be utilized for propagation and large scale multiplication of this commercially important endangered medicinal plant.

Weed species considered as pariahs of plant kingdom as they spread very rapidly and have a competitive edge on top of indigenous species in the areas they invade. Although the use of weeds is less desirable, tribal people still use them for several purposes. This paper intent to highlight the utilization pattern of weeds by Gaddis and Gujjars of Nurpur Valley in Western Himalayan Region of Himachal Pradesh, India. The ethnobotanical data was collected by descriptive survey along with the observations and interviews were conducted. It was then analysed quantitatively by using use value and fidelity level. A total of 29 weed plants inherent in the 19 families were distinguished that are being practiced in traditional medicines to treat many diseases. The high use value is calculated for Cannabis sativa (1). Maximum diseases (37%) are treated by using the whole plant and the most popular method of medication is decoction. The gathered statistics will act as a catalyst for re-evaluating the potential cultivation of certain weed species under controlled conditions as well as exploring their utility in plant-based medicine.

Andrographis paniculata, known as "Kalmegh," has a long-standing history in Indian folk medicine, particularly as a remedy for fever and liver disorders. Traditionally, it has been used across India to treat various conditions such as the common cold, cough and fever from infections, diarrhea, and jaundice. The plant is also renowned as a liver tonic and antioxidant. In folk traditions, Kalmegh was commonly prepared as a decoction, infusion, or paste to treat these ailments. References to its medicinal use can be traced back to the Vedas, where it is mentioned as "Kalmegh," which translates to "dark clouds." This review is a compilation of various works previously published on Andrographis paniculata and finds utilization scope in folk medicines among people.

The creation of a traditional Jain Vatika in Teerthanker Mahaveer University (TMU) campus in Uttar Pradesh, India is a holistic and innovative approach to ex-situ conservation approach. This initiative serves a dual purpose: preserving plant species with cultural and religious significance within Jainism and contributing to the broader biodiversity conservation mission. The traditional Jain Vatika has become a spiritual and educational sanctuary, fostering a deeper understanding of Jain culture and values among students and visitors. Simultaneously, it plays a vital role in the conservation of plant diversity, providing a secure harbor for a diverse range of species. The twenty-four plants are planted in the traditional Jain Vatika which represent the twenty-four Lord Teerthankers of Jain religion.