Medicinal plants. India is known for its herbs and spices from ancient times. Some 2,000 plants have been described in Ayurveda and atleast 500 are in regular use. The World Conservation Union’s Red list has named for 352 medicinal plants of which 52 are critically threatened and 49 endangered.
- The Rauvolfia Serpentina (Sarpagandha). Used to treat blood pressure; it is found only in India.
- Jamun. The juice from unripe fruit is used to prepare vinegar which is carminative and diuretic, and has digestive properties. The powder of the seed is a cure of diabetes, the bark is good for cough, asthma and dysentery.
- Arjun. The fresh juice of leaves is a cure for earache. It is also used to curve blood pressure problems and heart diseases.
- Babool. Leaves are used as a tonic and a cure for eyesores. It is used as a tonic and medicine for cough, its bark dust is a cure for dog bite.
- Neem. Neem has high antibiotic and antibacterial effects.
- Tulsi Plant is used to cure cough and cold.
- Kachnar is used to cure asthma and ulcers. The buds and roots are good for digestive problems. The root is used as cure for snake bites.
