Pankaj Oudhia's Research Documents on Biodiversity and Traditional Healing. Part-4

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Experiences and interactions with Kevatch (Mucuna Pruriens) collectors and growers of Chhattisgarh, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Kevatch is known for its itch causing hairs present on pods. In forests of Chhattisgarh, Kevatch is collected and supplied to different parts of country and also world since decades. In Nagri-Sihawa region of the state, there are many small hills covered with dense natural population of different types of Kevatch. In Chhattisgarh you will find that many forest villages are named on Kevatch. According to the natives, the reasons behind these names are natural occurrence of these useful herbs around these villages. During my Ethnobotanical surveys, I have visited many of such hills and villages known for Kevatch population. I have noted that the ecosystem of these hills is entirely different from nearby hills in terms of flora and fauna. Later I have got the reason. Kevatch is a strong Allelopathic plant. Common and popular names of Kevatch (Mucuna pruriens) around the world Languages/Regions/Countries Names 1) Arabic Habilkulai 2) Bengal Akolshi, Alkusa, Bichchoti, Kamach 3) Myanmar Khuele, Khwele 4) Kanarese Hasaguni, Kadavare, Markate, Nasukunni, Turashi 5) English Cowage, Cowhage, Cowitch 6) French Petit pois a gratter, Petit pois pouilleux 7) German Kratzbohnen, Kuhkraetza 8) Gujarati Kancha, Goncha, Kaunch, Kivach, Kawanch, Konch, Kuyach 9) Hindi Gaunch, Goncha, Kaunch, Kevatch, Kivach, Konch 10) Malyalam Naykkurna, Shorivalli, Shoriyanam 11) Mexico Oje de venado 12) Nepal Kaochir, Kouach 13) Persian Anareghorash 14) Sanskrit Adhyanda, Arshabhi, Atmagupta, Badari, Pusparsha, Guru, Kandura, Kapikachhu, Kapiprabha, Kashiroma, Markati, Rishabhi, Sugupta, Swagupta, Vyaghra, Vyanga 15) Sinhalese Achariyapalle 16) Spanish Picapica, Picapica menor 17) Tamil Amudari, Arugratam, Kadigandu, Maguttam 18) Telugu Dulagondi, Duradagondi, Pilliyadagu, Pravrishayani, Totadulagondi 19) Uriya Alokushi, Baidhonko, Baikhujani, Kachu, Morkotomado 20) Urdu Kavancha The natural allelochemicals of Kevatch allow very few species to survive in "Kevatch Ecosystem". I personally feel that there is a strong need to study this unique ecosystem separately with much care. In this article, I am trying to disclose some hidden facts and information about this herb that I have gained from my surveys of different parts of Chhattisgarh, the Herbal state. The scientific name of Kevatch is Mucuna pruriens. In Sanskrit it is known as Kronch, Kapikachhu or Atmagupta. Kevatch holds a reputed position in Indian systems of medicine. Since centuries Indian herb experts are using Kevatch for the treatment of many common health problems. According to Ayurveda, root is useful in biliousness and indolent ulcers. Seeds are tonic and aphrodisiac and also useful in treatment of blood diseases. It is one of the most frequently used herbs in India. It is an integral part of over 100 popular drug mixtures in India. Recent studies have shown that Kevatch is a source of drug for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. Natural chemical L-DOPA has been isolated from this herb. In Chhattisgarh, the natives are aware of medicinal properties of Kevatch. In available literatures, the uses of pods and seeds are mentioned and very little emphasis has been given on the roots. In Chhattisgarh all parts are used as medicine. According to the traditional healers of the state, roots are most important part. I have collected the information on use of Kevatch in over 150 acute as well as chronic diseases. But mainly it is used as tonic and aphrodisiac. The traditional healers prepare an herbal juice using aqueous extract of Kevatch roots as main component. This herbal juice is a popular and well established aphrodisiac. The collection and extraction procedures are unique. The traditional healer visit to the Kevatch plant and inform him that he is coming next morning to harvest some parts of roots, (Please be prepare) and request him to increase the medicinal potential in it. After this short prayer, he applies juice of Kaua-Kaini and other plants on Kevatch root. Next morning, he digs and collect some part of roots (not the whole root) .The root is washed and dipped in well water for 24 hours. After 24 hours, the extraction is done. In the extract, the juice from other herbs are mixed and given to the patient to increase sexual desire and to increase longetivity of this desire. I have found the sole juice effective enough to perform its job. In many parts of Chhattisgarh the traditional healers advise the patient to put this dipped root (without extraction) inside the mouth during sexual intercourse in order to increase the duration. According to them as long the juice is going inside the stomach, there will be no ejaculation. Many traditional healers recommend to tight the freshly collected root around the waist, all time during day and night (up to forty days) in order to get permanent effect. They use red thread for this purpose. According to them the use of black thread can cause harm to the patients. I have seen and talked to the users of this unique herb for this purpose. In urban areas of Chhattisgarh in betlevine (Pan) shops, the special Pans for increasing sexual desire are common. The shopkeepers use the Kevatch root in this Pan. In order to maintain its secrecy, they use crushed or powdered roots. In this Pan, red velvet mite Trombidium is also used. Before going to other details, I want to explain the science of Kevatch collection. As you have read, the Traditional Healers apply the juice of herbs like Kaua-Kaini in Kevatch roots one day prior to collection of roots. In my laboratory studies, I have found these juices beneficial for the growth of Kevatch roots. These studies come under Allelopathy. Allelopathy is relatively a new branch of science. With the help of Allelopathy, we can explain the effect of one species on different species. In nature, every species competes with nearby species for light, moisture and food (also for space). In this competition, they use some lethal chemicals, known as allelochemicals, as weapon. The species use these chemicals also to promote the growth of desired species in its surroundings. In my allelopathic studies, I have found the juice of Kaua-Kaini also effective for germination and seedling vigor of Kevatch seeds. As the traditional healers are well aware of the fact that by injuring the roots they can damage or destruct the whole plant, they take full precaution. They apply the Kaua-Kaini juice to make the root (or plant) hardy and secondly only part of roots is use instead of whole rooting system. Whether the use of Kaua-Kaini juice increases the medicinal properties of roots or not? It is a matter of scientific investigation. The Traditional Healer is also not aware of this fact. They are just doing this because their forefathers have instructed them to do it. These traditional knowledge and collection procedure with scientific interpretation have yet not been reported and explained. Botanical differences between two Mucuna species. Characteristics Mucuna Mucuna pruriens deeringiana 1) Habit An herbaceous, twining annual. A herbaceous, pubescent, trailing or twining annual, up to 18 m or more in length 2) Leaf Trifoliate, leaflets broadly ovate, elliptic or rhomboid ovate. Trifoliate, leaflets ovate or rhomboid, 5-15 cm long. 3) Flower Purple, in axillary pendulous racemes. Purple. 4) Fruit Curved, 4-6 seeded, longitudinally ribbed pod, densely clothed with persistent pale-brown or grey, irritant bristles. Ridged, 3-5 seeded pod, densely covered with black pubescence, 5.0-7.5 cm long 5) Seed Black, ovoid, 12 mm long. Nearly globular, usually speckled, marbled brown or black, also pure grey or black not uncommon I am thankful to Botanical dot com for providing me stage to disseminate this valuable knowledge among world communities. In order to hasten the process of delivery, the pregnant women are advised by the Traditional Healers to inhale the fumes of dried roots. Like Chirchita root (Achyranthes aspera) it is also found useful in many cases. The Achyranthes roots are applied externally. In Chhattisgarh, young leaves and pods of Kevatch are eaten as vegetable. This is popular vegetable still in old generation. I have found that it is less popular in younger generation. The native eat it just for taste and flavor. They are not aware of its medicinal properties. According to the Traditional Healers of the state, over dose of these leaves as vegetable is harmful. They always instruct me "Please do not eat much". Possibly they are well aware of its harmful effects but they have never told me about this. On the basis of the seed colour many types of Kevatch are found naturally in different parts of Chhattisgarh. Broadly two types white and black seeded are well known. Black variety is reported as natural occurring and hairs on the pod cause itching and cause blisters and dermatitis. The white seeded type is free from the allergic pod hairs. It is under cultivation in home gardens and crop fields. This white seeded type is preferred for vegetable as compared to black seeded type in urban and semi-urban areas. In rural areas specially villages nearer to forest use black seeded type for vegetable. As far as medicinal properties are concerned, according to Traditional Healers of Chhattisgarh, black seeded variety is more potential as compared to other types including white seeded types. From different parts of Chhattisgarh. I have collected ten different types of Kevatch seeds. I have written to National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources, New Delhi, India about my discovery. This biodiversity is unique and need proper attention. In the samples I have found much verification both in colour and shape. Now I am planning to evaluate the efficacy of different types with the help of Traditional Healers. In my laboratory, I am studying the growth patterns of these diverse types. I personally feel that there is a wide scope in this field and there is necessity to start thorough research but due to absence of such enthusiastic and devoted institutes, I am unable to do it alone. This the reason I am writing and expressing all of my findings and innovative ideas through these articles, so that after my departure from this world, the young and enthusiastic future generation can understand the treasure of their homeland, and can do a lot for the benefit of people around the world. In reference literatures, I have this botanical description about Kevatch. It is an herbaceous twining annual. Leaf - trifoliate, leaflets broadly ovate, elliptic or rhomboid ovate, Flower purple, in axillary pendulous racemes, Fruit - Curved, 4-6 seeded, longitudinally ribbed pod, densely clothed with persistent pale-brown or grey, irritant blisters. Seeds black, ovoid and about 12mm long. Kevatch seeds are collected and supplied to national and international market since decades. It is one of the important Non-wood forest produces from Chhattisgarh. According to the national buyers the Kevatch of Chhattisgarh holds a special demand and always it is sold in comparatively higher rates. The collectors at village level are not aware of this special demand and rates. This is the reason they are not getting good prices for valuable seeds. According to the lower level retailers at Dhamtari city, the black seeded type is in higher demand always. Since past four to five years, the demand of Kevatch seeds is in increasing trend. Some says that due to its increased use in new drug combinations the demand has gone up while other says that the discovery of L-DOPA (Useful in treatment of Parkinson’ disease) has increased its demand in many folds. This demand is creating a pressure on Chhattisgarh forest and the availability is decreasing with alarming rates. This increased demand has motivated the farmers particularly the young farmers of Chhattisgarh, to cultivate this crop commercially. As stated earlier, the black seeded type is troublesome because of pod hairs; the farmers prefer white seeded type for commercial cultivation. The white seeded type is inferior in term of quality but superior in terms of production. Today over 1000 herb growers are cultivating commercially this herb in fairly large areas. With many herb growers, I am conducting many field level experiments in order to enhance the quality and production both. We have found that Kevatch grown with support yield more as compared to Kevatch grown without support. Chhattisgarh farmers are using indigenous trees like Babool (Acacia nilotica) for support. This unique use is saving the cost of support and space both. Babool is not harmful to Kevatch and vice-versa. We have promoting the organic farming of herbs. Many herb growers using lethal agrochemicals are getting poor prices for their produce. According to the buyers, the use of agrochemical deteriorates the quality and there is no demand of this produce in international market. From seed treatment to pest management, the Chhattisgarh farmers have developed many organic alternatives. You will find details of these practices in my next articles. For Traditional Healers, collection of seeds from back seeded type is not a big problem. According to them in nature the solution of every problem is present. The only thing needed is to observe and find these solutions patiently. The Traditional Healer of Nagri-Sihawa region where hills having "Kevatch ecosystem" are in abundance told me that the plants present in this ecosystem are the solution for this big trouble. He has listed many plants that can be used for this purpose. Few minutes after chewing these plant leaves, body get resistance (?) toward itching caused by pod hairs. Mamira is one of these plants. Mamira is found abundantly in Kevatch hills. According to Traditional Healer, this is a gift of nature to us. I have experienced the miracle effect of Mamira (Coptis teeta). In many parts of Chhattisgarh, Bhang is taken in order to reduce the allergic reaction of pod hairs. The Traditional Healers of Chhattisgarh plains wait till maturity of pods for the collection of seeds. After maturity they put fire on whole plant. After quick burning the seeds are collected. According to them burning can not affect the medicinal properties. But the practice they are adopting is not a scientific method. This destructive harvesting can cause total eradication of plants from that area, as forest fire can damage both new plant and other valuable species. The local retailers are well aware of this burning process. They adopt this practice for cheating. As started earlier, the black seeded type fetch more price than the white seeded type, the corrupt retailers put fire on white seeded type and after burning no one can differentiate white seeded type from black seeded one. This false seeds are sold at the price of black seeded type Kevatch. In Chhattisgarh, there is no advanced laboratory for the analysis of herbal produce. This is the reason the retailers are cheating the national buyers. With the help of standard chemical analysis one can clearly differentiate both of these types. The use of herbs in order to prevent the itching allergy has not been yet reported. Not much work has been done on this aspect. This is one more area where there is a scope for research. Thank you very much for reading this long article patiently. I am getting positive responses all over the world regarding these articles. I am fortunate that nature has given me this opportunity to work as bridge between world community and the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh, the Herbal state. Interactions with Traditional Healers, Collectors and Growers of Chhattisgarh, India associated with Medicinal Herb Dhikuar (Aloe vera) Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Although Aloe vera is not indigenous to India and Chhattisgarh but as exotic herb the natives have welcomed and adopted this herb and this is the reason Aloe holds a reputed position as ethnomedicine. In Chhattisgarh, few decades back Aloe was present in every home garden and also grew naturally in dense forests but due to heavy demand of Aloe based herbal products its availability in natural habitat is decreasing rapidly and today it is present in isolated patches of Chhattisgarh. Botanical differences among three major species of Aloe Characteristics Aloe Aloe Aloe barbadensis syn socotrina spicata Aloe vera 1) Stem Woody, simple, cylindrical, short Woody, straight, 1.5 foot high and more, naked below, where it is strongly marked with the scars of Stem 3-4 feet high, as thick as man's arm leaves 2) Leaves Fleshy, amplexicaul, first spreading, then ascending, lanceolate, glaucous-green, flat above, convex below, armed with hard distant reddish spines perpendicular to the margin; a little mottled with darker colour, the parenchyma slightly coloured brown. Amplexicaul, ascending, ensiform, green, curved inwards at the point, convex below rather concave above, marked with numerous small white marginal serratures, the parenchyma abounding in a bright brownish-yellow juice Leaves thick, fleshy, broad at the base, gradually narrowing to the point, channeled, full 2 feet long, distantly toothed, with a few white spots, their parenchyma almost colorless. 3) Flowers Spike cylindrical ovate, flowers at first erect, then spreading, afterwards pendulous, yellow, not longer than the stamens Raceme cylindrical, unbranched, flowers scarlet at the base, pale in the middle, green at the point, stamens unequal, 3 of them longer than the flowers. Spike a foot long, very compact, with the flowers companulate and horizontal. The three petals broader, ovate, obtuse, white with a triple green like, the sepals narrower, less concave; stamens longer than the perianth, flowers are filled with honey 4) Origin The East Indies and Barbary Islands of Socotra Interior of the Cape of Good Hope Last year I have noted its presence in Rengakhar forests of Chhattisgarh. From last two to three years, its commercial cultivation has started. But unfortunately, the growers are purchasing it from metros like Mumbai and Pune at very high rates. Once abundant now the Chhattisgarh forests are empty as far as Aloe is concerned. There is a need to study the reasons responsible for this fast depletion of Aloe in the region. As stated earlier, few decades back Aloe was an essential component of every home garden. The housewives were aware of its unique healing properties. Common Indian Names of Aloe vera Languages/Regions Names 1) Gujarati Kadvi-Nahani Kunvar 2) Hindi Ghikumari, Kumari, Guarpatha, Kuvarpatha 3) Kanarese Kattali, Lolisara 4) Marathi Korphad, Korkand 5) Sanskrit Kshurmallika, Kanya, Kapila, Kumari For Traditional Healers Aloe is a valuable plant and they are among them who are worried because of this over exploitation. Unfortunately, the Aloe under cultivation in Chhattisgarh is not getting good prices. This is really surprising. According to the national buyers herbs collected from natural forests are not only more effective but also they are very cheap because the cost of cultivation is not involved. In this article I am trying to present a brief description of my experiences and interaction with Traditional Healers, collectors and growers with this herb. Most of the Traditional Healers have gained medicinal knowledge about Aloe from their forefathers. Many of them says that their forefather have gained this knowledge from the visitors coming from different parts of India. The Traditional Healer of Dhamtari district informed me that there are two types of Aloe present in Chhattisgarh. One is sweet tasted and other with bitter taste. But during my survey, I have noted no morphological and botanical differences in these so called two types. According to the native of Narharpur, who is having rich traditional medicinal knowledge about herbs, the taste depends upon the edaphic factors and micro environment. He told me the Aloe found in rocky areas taste sweet. I am yet not sure about this. His observation needs scientific evaluation. In many parts of Chhattisgarh, the sweet tasted types are used as vegetable. For Traditional Healers both sweet and bitter tasted types are equal in terms of medicinal properties. It is common belief in Chhattisgarh, that the presence of this plant in home garden cause disputes in family. That is why it is planted in boundaries. I am not agreeing with this belief. To find out the scientific reason behind this belief, I planed to conduct a small survey. During this survey, I tried to ask the natives particularly the senior members of the society for possible reason why it is suggested to plant Aloe outside the home garden or as fence plant. I got many surprising answers. Most of respondents said that Aloe is a snake attractant plant and in order to keep the snakes away from home it is necessary to plant it outside. As the natives are well aware of its uses as medicinal and culinary herb, they do not want to root out this herb from garden. In the list of snake attractant plants or snake related plants, I have not found the name of Aloe. During 1999-2000 when I was standing in Aloe field at the farm of Arvind Agriculture, Durg my field workers informed me that it is not possible for them to perform hand weeding operation. The temperature goes over 45 degrees centigrade. During this harsh time, very few vegetation remain on ground. As Aloe plants are xerophytic in nature they grow well in summer. The basal fleshy portion and its dense population are good shelter for these snakes. Whether there is any symbiotic relationship between snakes and Aloe or not ? I am not sure, but during summer I always avoid to root out these plants from fields for observations. According to the Traditional Healers of Bastar, many herbs like Sarpgandha (Rauvolfia serpentina) helps in repelling away the snakes, this is the reason many Aloe growers prefer to grow a single line of Sarpgandha in Aloe fields in order to repel away the snakes. I personally feel that there is a need for scientific evaluation. We are talking about the aloe in home gardens. Snake and Aloe - This may be the one reason. One Ayurvedic practioner from Raipur informed me during this survey that as the yellow juice from the base of leaves is harmful to human beings specially to children, it is advised to plant this herb outside the garden. Although I am not aware but according to my parents during my childhood, the Aloe was present in our home garden. Chhattisgarh people are well aware of its miracle healing properties. You will be surprised to know that at present you can rarely find any home garden with Aloe herb. Why this has happened? One of the major reasons I have found is its speed of multiplication. According to my father even a single plant multiplies very rapidly and within few months its growth cover whole garden. The old generation is now surprising to know that the young generation is investing lot of money for commercial cultivation of this weedy plant. According to the Traditional Healer of Bagbahera, the more the spines on Aloe leaves, more will be the medicinal potential. In order to confirm this reality, I have collected samples of all varieties (spiny and spineless) from natural habitat and with the help of my biochemist friend performed a laboratory test. We have cal content. Also many Traditional Healers are not ready to accept this finding. According to them, all types are same. I feel as ethnobotanist it is my duty to observe and document all the findings whether they are true or not. I always try to confirm these findings from other traditional healers and also work hard to find the science behind it with the help of seniors, ancient literatures, friends etc. A lot have been written about this useful plant in ancient and modern literatures. In Chhattisgarh it is popularly known as Dhikuar whereas in Hindi its names are Guarpatha, Ghritkumar, Kumari, Kuvarpatha etc. In reference literatures I have found this brief description. It is a perennial herb; stem short thick, somewhat divided; Leaves sessile, crowded, lanceolate, pale-green, fleshy, margins spiny (many spineless types are common in Chhattisgarh). Scape longer than the leaves, scaly, simple or branched; Flowers in dense racemes; perianth cylinderic; pendulous and yellow. According to Ayurveda, it is bitter, cooling purgative, alterative, fattening, tonic, aphrodisiac, anthelmintic, alexiteric and useful in eye troubles, tumors, spleen enlargement, liver complaints, vomiting, bronchitis, skin diseases, biliousness, asthma, jaundice, stangury and ulcers. In my allelopathic studies, I have found this herb useful for organic farming. I have tested its aqueous extracts on different harmful insects, diseases and weeds. In many crops, I noted its stimulatory allelopathic effects. In order to manage the termite problem, the natives of Chhattisgarh use this plant. It is a common traditional practice to plant this herb on termitarium in order to repel away the termites. I have found the aqueous extract of whole plant effective against termite. We have successfully tested this effect on Safed Moosli (Chlorophytum borivilianum) crop. It is also common practice to plant this herb around the common herbs grown for commercial purpose in order to prevent the attack of insects and diseases. For the collectors of forest produce, the Aloe is becoming one of the most wanted plants but they are aware of this depleting herb. The collector of Dhamtari says that the buyers from Kolkata are ready to pay any price for natural Aloe herb. Once when the collector tried to supply the Aloe from cultivated origin the buyer (after chemical testing) refused to purchase it. For state planners working on bio diversity plan of state, these collectors can play vital and important role in providing a detailed information about the natural occurrence and exploitation status of herbs. During my ethnomedico surveys I always try to sit for long time specially at night with these collector. These collectors are mobile information directory. Most of the collector is great Traditional Healers and lovers of forests. They pass long time inside the forest in search of herbs. As breakfast, lunch and dinner they prefer many wild fruits. These fruits are useful not only as food but also as tonic. You will find details about these fruits in my future articles. Seeing the demand of Aloe in national and international market now the farmers specially the young entrepreneurs have started commercial cultivation of Aloe vera. They have found this crop as hardy, fast growing and drought tolerant crop. I know at least 30 farmers engaged in Aloe farming. As the planting material is not available in nearby forests, the farmers are facing many problems. Due to ignorance they are getting wild varieties in name of improved varieties at very high rates. This high cost of planting material has made this crop ‘A crop of rich farmers’. Most of the farmers are cultivating Aloe just for selling it as planting material to other farmers after multiplication. There are no processing units in Chhattisgarh. The farmers are aware that after two to three years the level of saturation for planting material will come and after that the rates will go down. Many buyers at national and international level are eager to establish processing unit in Chhattisgarh growers are engaged in chemical farming Heavy use of chemical inputs are increasing the production (i.e. required at this stage because of its demand as planting material) but deteriorating its medicinal quality. I feel that there is a strong need to aware the farmers about the harms of chemical farming and advantages of organic farming. With the help of organic growers, SOPAM has prepared a detailed package of practices and with the help of field level demonstrations, farmers are motivated to adopt organic farming practices As the natural population of Aloe is decreasing at alarming rate in the state it is essential to take strong action for its conservation. The only purpose behind writing this article is to show the world community the present scenario of traditional knowledge, present utilization, cultivation natural occurrence and marketing of Dhikuar (Aloe vera) in Chhattisgarh, the Herbal State Traditional Medicinal Knowledge about herbs used in Dental Care in Chhattisgarh, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Do you believe that two drops of medicated herbal oil applied inside the nose can make you free from all troubles related to teeth? Yes, it is possible and it is in practice in many parts of Chhattisgarh. I have seen such specialists in almost every part of Chhattisgarh but among them the Traditional Healer of Gunderdehi is practicing this traditional knowledge sincerely and devotedly. Since student life, I am continuously writing articles on herbs for farmers and common people. From those days, Mr. Chawda, a Traditional Healer of Gunderdehi, is in regular contact with me. Initially we were associated with the help of long letters but today we talk many hours continuously on telephone. He has told me many unique and important uses of common herbs. Mr. Chawda is well known in Chhattisgarh, also outside the India. Two years back when my mother got the problem of dental carries, I suggested her to visit Gunderdehi for at least consultation. The method of treatment Mr. Chawda adopts is very simple and effective. Before starting the treatment, he takes full details regarding the problem. After listening the problem carefully, he visits to his home garden (Badi) for collection of useful herb. The fresh herbs are used to prepare specific herbal oil. This herbal oil is applied inside the nose (only two drops), for sometime (few seconds) patient feels uneasy (due to sensitivity) and after that the Traditional Healer informs the patient that the treatment is over and he is free from all troubles. At once, the patient can not believe. To provide a proof of strong teeth, the Traditional Healer advise patient to put small stones (murum) inside the mouth and patient hesitate but when he try, he feels that his diseased teeth have became extra strong. According to this Traditional Healer there is no necessity to repeat the treatment in life. He claims that this small treatment is more effective on young patients. He informed me that this herbal oil should be applied under vaccination programme nation wide once during childhood in order to make the child free from any dental troubles life long. He blames the modern foods like pizza, chowmein and other fast foods that are becoming very popular in Chhattisgarh, for dental troubles. After taking treatment my mother is now getting rid from dental carries. The natural colour is returning. I am regularly observing the miracle effect of this herbal oil. I have referred many of my relatives to Mr. Chawda. The rural people and the patients outside the India are fan of Mr. Chawda’s traditional knowledge but urban people from nearby cities, a firm believer and follower of toothpaste culture, still make fun of Mr. Chawda. This is really very sad. Mr. Chawda is over 70 and still practicing. According to him in his long life he has learnt and experienced many herbs but has got specialization in only 20 herbs. He says one life is insufficient to understand the miracle’s of nature. You will be surprised to know that he charge no fees for his treatment. Even the cost of herbs is not charged. Mr. Chawda belongs to farming community and his sons are well established. Last year he visited and surveyed the nearby Gandhmardan hills, full of diverse flora and fauna, with local people. When he came back, I have seen a refreshed look on his face and his sumojeep was full of rare herbs. Unfortunately no one is ready to learn the secrets of his traditional knowledge. According to him many multinational companies are in regular touch but Mr. Chawda is not in favor of making money from this traditional knowledge. He has yet not documented this knowledge anywhere. He has devoted his whole life for herbal research. For the treatment only few minutes are required but he talks two-three hours to patient, for which every one have no time and patience. His every word is valuable for researchers like me but unfortunately I get very little time to be in touch with him. He has disclosed the formula to me but requested me not to sell it for money. He knows that after his departure from this earth, the people will become aware and only after this he will get recognition, a statue will be placed in any street or any institute will be named in his name. I salute his dedication and hard work. The natives of Chhattisgarh are having rich traditional knowledge about Daton or Datun (twigs of different herbs used for chewing and preparing a tooth brush for teeth cleaning). Over 20 herbs are used for this purpose. When the toothpaste culture was not introduced in Chhattisgarh, the Daton was an integral part of daily routine. Out of these herbs, the Daton prepared from Neem and Babool twigs are still in use. The traditional Healers recommend different twigs to be used as Daton to different patients according to their problems. These Datons are having many useful effects on whole body. The natives of Chhattisgarh have started using many alien weeds for this purpose. You will find details in my next article focused on Datons of Chhattisgarh. Akarkara is one of the most frequently used herbs for dental care in Chhattisgarh. According to ancient literatures related to Indian systems of medicine, potential Akarkara roots were imported from Arabian countries, but it is also mentioned that in absence of Akarkara of Arabian origin, one can use the indigenous species for the same purpose. In literatures many promising spots and areas are mentioned. Fortunately Chhattisgarh is one of these. In my floristic surveys I have observed two species of Akarkara. One species is reported as field weed in winter season crop in Chhattisgarh. Another species, I have found during my surveys of Bastar region. One can differentiate these two species with heads, and size of the flower head. The species found as field weed is less in plant height, pungency and size of flower head but I have found this species hardier as compared to forest species. In forest species, I have noted and observed the attack of many insects particularly the leaf miner and fungal diseases. This observation will be of great use for the breeders in future engaged in development of new improved varieties of Akarkara. I am fortunate that I have not only seen the potential Akarkara of Arabian origin but also from many years, my many farmers are cultivating this species in Chhattisgarh. First time I got seed from Mr. Siddiqui, an herb grower from Panna. He has got the seeds from Makka - Madina during his visit as Haji. In terms of quality (?) and productivity the species of Arabian origin is many times superior from indigenous species. We have grown tons of dried roots organically and still the cultivation is going on. I was a great fan of this exotic species but the Traditional Healer of Bastar has opened my eyes. In our ancient literatures it is clearly mentioned that patient can only be treated efficiently and effectively with the help of herbs present in his surroundings. The emphasis was given on the use of indigenous herbs rather than the exotic herbs. According to the Traditional Healers of Chhattisgarh, in early days, the natives of Chhattisgarh were resistant enough to face the diseases, but due to increasing use of Allopathic and exotic herbs, the natives are loosing resistance and the number of patients is increasing drastically. This information has motivated me to focus my work on indigenous species and from last year my farmers are cultivating all three species. The local Traditional Healers are ready to purchase the indigenous species for their treatment but the quantity required and the rates are very low. The national and also international buyers give more preference to big and healthy roots (Arabian species) as compared to thin roots (indigenous species). This is the Arabian species. I personally think that the support of government in this regard will be of great help to the herb growers of Chhattisgarh. In my laboratory experiments, I have found better germination of indigenous species as compared to exotic species. As you know, I am in favor of organic cultivation of herbs and this is also recommended in ancient literatures and also a demand of Traditional Healers and buyers all around the globe. But as the buyers are demanding thick roots, vigorous and big flower head, many herb growers are trying chemical fertilizers for cultivation. No doubt, the use of chemical fertilizer is increasing the quantity and growth but deteriorating the quality. Now here comes the responsibility and role of agriculture researcher to establish the balance between these two. The scientific name of Akarkara is Spilanthes acmella (family Compositae). Its English name is Pellitary. I have found this botanical description of Akarkara in reference literatures. It is an annual herb, stem and branches hairy; Leaves - opposite, ovate, irregularly crenate - serrate, base usually acute; Flowers in heads. Ovoid, solitary or sub-panicled, peduncles reaching 10 cm long; involucral bracts oblong-lanceolate; ray flowers and ligules very often absent, the latter when present minute. Pappus O; Flower Achene, oblong, truncate and compressed. As the scientific names of indigenous species are still not clear, it is hard to say whether this description suits Chhattisgarh species or not. I have found much of variations during my surveys. This is one more area where the future work related to botany field should be focused. Akarkara holds a reputed position in almost every systems of medicine around the globe. In Indian systems of medicine the roots, leaves and flower-heads are used as medicine. In Chhattisgarh, the Traditional Healers use this herb mainly for dental care. The patient suffering from decayed teeth and foul breath are advised to use the tooth powder prepared by crushing the dried whole plant of Akalkara use increases the flow of saliva and makes the mouth fresh. The Traditional Healers recommend the common people to put daily one flower head inside the mouth during flowering season in order to prevent attack of any pathogen in mouth and make the components active and refreshed. This is specially effective in gum sores and aphthae. Children suffering from stammering problem are also advised by the Traditional Healers of Chhattisgarh to use the Flower head regularly. Fortunately, This is the knowledge also present in rural community of Chhattisgarh. As the use of tobacco based "Gutkha’ is increasing in Chhattisgarh, the problem of mouth diseases is also increasing. The young generation is under attack of this harmful and lethal habit. During field works, it is common observation that the workers suffering from this disease put the flower head inside the mouth and after completion of work they root out the herbs from crop fields and take it to home in order to prepare tooth powder. This is encouraging observation. In future, This use may be of great help in managing the herb occurring as problematic weed (?) in crop fields. This unique concept of "Control Through Utilization" will be of great importance both for farmers and herb users that time. In Bastar region of Chhattisgarh, Turmeric is under cultivation in fairly large areas. In dense forests of the region, I have seen many wild species, locally known as Van Haldi, also. The Traditional Healers of Bastar region use these wild species for the treatment of many common diseases. I have found it very useful in case of Dental care. The Traditional Healers recommend it alone and in combination with other herbs, salts and oils both. The method of application or use is very simple. The dried roots are crushed and powder is prepared. The patients suffering from dental problem are advised to use this raw powder as tooth powder. For normal person they recommend it to use life long. According to them the regular use of Turmeric powder as tooth powder prevents they recommend one time use to normal persons daily and two times (morning and evening, before going to bed) to patients. I have consulted my Chinese dentist Dr. Liu for this traditional use. He has given green signal but warned me that the powder should be very fine otherwise it may cause abrasions on teeth and can damage the gums. He also informed me later that he is recommending it to his patients. As fond of sweets, my teeth are badly damaged. I am using this powder since 6 months and found it very useful. According to the Traditional Healers of Bastar, the young generations are not ready to quit the habit of tooth paste, so they are recommending it to use only at night. The use of Turmeric powder alone has not been described thoroughly in available literatures. My friends have found it effective against bleeding and spongy gums also. In order to get rid from toothache due to decayed teeth, the Traditional Healers advise to put or apply the powder in affected parts, it relieves the pain within few seconds. In many parts of Chhattisgarh this powder is used in combination with salt and Sarson oil (Mustard oil). This combination is applied on teeth and left for few minutes. I have found the use of Turmeric alone more effective. Many persons can not tolerate the pungency of mustard oil. So, this combination is not much popular. Keeping mustard oil alone in mouth for few minutes is also found effective in many cases. Few Traditional Healers are still recommending this practice to their patients. During my ethnomedico surveys to different parts of Chhattisgarh, I have observed and noted the use of many herbal combinations used for the treatment of dental problems. I have found this knowledge both in Traditional Healers and natives. These combinations include the use of dried leaves of Ginger, common table salt, fresh leaves and bark of guava, fresh root of Fudhar (Calotropis gigantea), Camphor, Neem leaves and bark, twigs of Kachnar, Black pipper, dried Ginger powder, Fresh bark of Babool (Acacia nilotica), fresh and s benghalensis), fresh bark of Maulshri etc in different proportions. I personally feel that there is a strong need to document the traditional knowledge about these herbs and also encourage and recognize the Traditional Healers of Chhattisgarh so that the young generation can understand the value of them and set their minds to learn from them well in time. Traditional medicinal knowledge about herbs and insects : One night with local herb collector of Pendra, Chhattisgarh, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved The natural forests of Pendra are rich in Bach (Acorus calamus). I have observed rich isolated patches of Bach in different parts of these forests. I frequently visit to this region with my clients interested in wild collection of herbs. For natural treasure of Tikhur and Dikamali, Pendra is a rich area. As you know, in our state mosquito is among big problems. In many parts of Chhattisgarh, Dikamali is used to prepare mosquito repellent sticks. Dikamali tree can be identified simply with its typical small. I have observed very dense population of this tree on way to Pendra. In English it is known as Canbi resin tree. The scientific name of Dikamali is Gardenia lucida Roxb. (Family Rubiaceae). In Indian system of medicine, its gum is used as medicine. The gum is hard, opaque in appearance, greenish yellow in colour and have typical repulsive odour. Few months back, a teacher from Nagri-Sihawa region of Chhattisgarh met me with proposal of establishing a small-scale industry for making mosquito and fly repellent incense stick. He showed some sample sticks. I have found these sticks very effective. He is using Dikamali and Boswelia gum as main ingredients. As collection and marketing of Boswelia gum is banned in our state by forest department, I suggested him to search alternative of this gum. We are in process of developing new formula. With my friends I am also trying to develop herbal mosquito repellent using common weeds. Use of weeds as raw material is saving the cost of raw material. During January-February months of this year, I visited to Pendra forests in search of Tikhur during frequently visit to forests in search of herbs. He lives in Pendra. With the permission of my client, I decided to stay with this herb collector whole night. We decided to talk and share our experiences about common herbs. Next morning we have to start our journey to nearby Amarkantak hills in search of new herbs. During the stay with this herb collector I have gathered a lot of information on Traditional medicinal knowledge about common herbs and many unique formulas. Also I have also given to him a treasure of my knowledge gathered from different traditional healers of Chhattisgarh and other state. I have observed that the most of the traditional healers and local herb collectors prefer two topics for discussion. The first topic is Ghost, their interactions and meetings with this creature (I have yet not met them) and second sex related diseases and their expertise in this field. During my surveys I have found that among tribal communities there are very less patients suffering from sex related diseases and I have always found very few tribal asking the traditional healers about the potential and powerful sexual drugs. The urban people approach to traditional healers mostly for their secret formulas to increase the sexual power. The traditional healers very frequently complaint me about the senseless questions of urban people. I have talked thoroughly to many traditional healers specialized in sexual disorders. They advise their patients to adopt normal life. In tribal culture, I have noted that there are many herbs given to persons of different age without explaining its effect. It is present in their culture. Many potherbs, even the stick of tree from which the toothbrushes (Daton) are prepared, possess great sexual potential. Use of these herbs according to culture, helps the tribal to enjoy this gift of god perfectly but modern life style of urban people have created a problem for them. This is the reason the urban people are having this problem to a greater extent. In internet also, I have noted on hair, skin and sex. You will find more information on Traditional knowledge about herbs used in order to increase the sexual desire and to treat sex related diseases in my next articles. At present, we are discussing my stay with local herb collector of Pendra. We have started our talk from this burning topic. In order to increase the sexual power he has given me many formulas. In these formulas, I have noted the repeated names of Safed Moosli (Chlorophytum borivilianum), Black Kevatch (Mucuna pruriens), Patal Kumhada (Pueraria tuberosa), Satavar (Asparagus racemosus), Asgandh (Withania somnifera) etc. The medicinal potential of these herbs is already well described in available literatures. In order to get more unique and secret formula, I have disclosed the use of Mucuna roots and Trombidium mite for this purpose. After long discussion, I have noted some formula and after coming back, I searched the reference literature but not got the references. According to this herb collector, during rainy season a special type of Kai (Lichen) appear on the rocks, which smell like rotten egg, is very useful in increasing the sexual desire. There is a special method for its use as medicine. It is collected early morning (why only at early morning, he is unable to explain), and dried in shade, after partial drying it is burn and ash in kept for use round the year. It is applied or used both externally and internally. Externally it is applied in form of paste with water on male genitals one hour prior to intercourse. According to him, it increases the power and duration. For regular use, the winter season is best. According to him, it can harm if used during hot summer days. There months regular use during each winter can make you enough powerful for one year. Later when I disclosed this formula to one of my Guru at Amarkantak hills, he smiled and said he have some more herbs to make this formula further strong . According to him, the roots of Kala Dhatura (Black Datura) increases the efficacy of this formula. The roots a alkaloid content is high) as per the instruction of his Guru and dried roots are put on fire and ash is used for medicine. The specific Lichen is used both externally and internally but with Dhatura roots it is used only externally. Only five percent Dhatura root is sufficient to increase its potency. When I asked my Guru that what are the other herbs He smiled and replied that at first you try this formula, after that he will disclose the other herbs. As internal dose, the herb collector of Pendra warned me that before its use please consult your herb expert, he will inform you what does is suitable for you. He use five pinch of this with lukewarm water. During my visit to Oodlabari region of West Bengal, India, my local guide has also informed me about the use of common lichen of that area as styptic in order to stop the bleeding from wounds and to encourage the fast and quick healing. At that time, I smelled the lichen but in smell it was entirely different from lichen of Pendra and nearby area. In Amarkantak hills, famous for valuable herbs, this lichen is not noted. My Guru told me that he instruct his followers and students to collect this valuable gift of mother nature during rainy season from Pendra region. I have collected some samples and sent it for identification. I think that there is a need for scientific investigation. In my village, one of natives have informed me that the Kai found on old ponds are useful in case of stomach disorder. These information have motivated me to conduct a detailed surveys focused on different species of Kai (Lichen) in Chhattisgarh and traditional medicinal knowledge about these species. The herb collector of Pendra informed that there is some positive relationship between the tree of Doomar and this Kai. Doomar is a common tree occur in Chhattisgarh.. Its scientific name is Ficus glomerata (a relative of Pipal). According to him, he has observed the higher density of this Kai where the population of Doomar is high. This observation also needs scientific attention. I suggestion for him. Please try to apply the juice of this kai on Doomar and vice-versa. If the observation of herb collector is true, you will definitely find some encouraging result. From my fellow researchers and friends, I have heard that earlier the forests of Pendra and Amarkantak were the rich sources of Ganoderma mushrooms (Rieshi mushroom). Only after its complete exploitation by the exporter of the capital Delhi, the scientific community got information. Now you can observe it very rarely. One of my favorite teachers during my student life at Agriculture College, Raipur, Dr. M.P. Thakur is at present working on different mushroom species of Chhattisgarh. There is a strong need to popularize and conserve the use of this potential Kai after scientific evaluation. In order to increase the size of male genitals ( most frequently asked questions on internet), the herb collector of Pendra informed me about many combinations. I have noted that the earthworm is among most repeatedly used component. He has informed me about both external and internal use of earthworm for this purpose. In most of the cases earthworm is killed, dried and powder with cow’s milk is used both for external and internal application. When I disclosed this use to other traditional healers, they said yes it is effective, but its efficacy varies from patient to patient. This is the reason the duration of treatment is different for every patient. The traditional healers informed me that very few people approach to them for this problem. When I informed them that on internet this is a burning question, they were surprised and laughed. A traditional healer of Amarkantak town informed me that use of Kaiphal is also one of the best remedies. He has given me some extra large seeds of this herb and advised me to use it externally with buffalo’s milk (why not cow’s or goat’s milk, he is unable to explain). Kaiphal (Myrica esculenta) is an exotic tree native to China and Japan. I have never seen its tree in my state. The traditional healer collected or purchased these seeds from Delhi market. As my studies and surveys are focused on native flora of Chhattisgarh, I have not given more attention on use of Kaiphal seeds. I was aware that the earthworm’s are farmer’s friend but my surveys told me that it is a very useful creature and a good friend of herbalists also. As you know, being herb expert I am guiding many of herb growers of state in commercial and organic farming of herbs. In organic farming vermicompost is a vital tool. Vermicompost is prepared with the help of earthworms (in order to hasten the process of composting). As the indigenous earthworms are thin in appearance and less in efficiency, we decided to use these Italian earthworms. The results were encouraging. During this experiment, an idea came to my mind and I decided to give some exotic earthworms to the traditional healers to evaluate its efficacy as medicine. They were surprised to see the size of these earthworms. Within a month, I got the results. But the results were negative. They informed that the use of exotic species increases the quantity of drug but from quality point of view, it is very inferior of the indigenous species. Some of them told that the taste of exotic species is excellent and they were ready to use the mixture of both species (indigenous as main component) but as the cost of exotic species was very high, they refused to use it for their patients. The herb collector of Pendra told me that the crab is very useful for the treatment of many acute and chronic respiratory system disorders. According to him, he has saved many patients using crab as medicine from last (?) stage of disease . He has no information about the different species of crab found in Chhattisgarh. According to him all species are having same medicinal potential. Also there is no specific method or time for collection of crab as medicine. I have shared my experience about common wasteland weed Blumea lacera in case of respiratory disorder and convinced him to conduct a small experiment by using it. Thanks a lot for reading my this article patiently. In Chhattisgarh, a lot of information on herbs, insects, mites etc are available. I think I have to take at least ten more births, to document a part of this traditional knowledge. The documentation is a very little step. I am sure my these findings will be great use for the world community and very soon the world community will be able to develop new promising drugs based on these valuable knowledge.

Can any insect eat polythene? Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Can any insect eat polythene? Can it digest it also? When this information reached people through Newspapers, they were surprised. Many appreciated this finding but many refused to believe it. Few could accept that an ordinary looking insect could eat and digest polythene. Unfortunately, news about this finding was associated with me as nature had decided me to be the medium to bring this truth before the people. I used the word “UNFORTUNATELY”, because this polythene eating bug has brought turmoil in my simple life. However, it was bit fortunate too. This bug made me alert about so called intellectuals around. It made me realize that for research and important findings there of; one has to be highly educated, learned and elderly – for acceptance of findings by the elite. Youth is not accepted, doing such research and bringing important findings to the notice of the people. Since this finding in July 1999 , till date, I have known this incomparable gift of nature. As I am unable to hold this gift in my thoughts and mind further , I am putting before common man, my struggle and pain due this finding in this article . This article will make aware the young scientists , who dare to dream to achieve success in field of original research. It will enlighten them about hurdles they may face in their endeavor. After completion of my post graduation in agriculture science , when I stepped into the world of reality , I found myself helpless, seeing my dreams shattered . Some how , I had developed flair for research during my studies , and had conveyed my desire to the Dean of Agriculture -College Raipur during my early days of college education. Though, I was not fully aware of process and procedures for undertaking research work, I was keen to get into it. As generally happens here , I was discouraged. When as a part of curriculum of B. Sc. (Agriculture), I was sent to Ambikapur , I came to know about Medicinal plants and weeds. I became very inductive about these plants and weeds. Here only I got inspiration from my teacher to know more about the wonderful world of insects and bugs. Scientists who got fame world over , in studies of insects and bugs , had developed love for the knowledge in the field in early ages, in some cases , even before they attained age of 5 years. As far as it goes with me, I used to fear a lot these insects in my childhood. I never thought that I will indulge in research on insects and findings will be known worldwide. In the closing years at Ambikapur , I noticed an insect on a weed. I felt that I must keep an eye on the activity of this insect over a period. After studying the complete life cycle of this insect , I went through the available literature on insects and found that there is hardly any information available on it. Specially , on conducting studies on this Blumea leaf beetle , I became , perhaps , the first person worldwide. In spite of limited knowledge on conducting systematic research , one of my teachers appreciated my work. We wrote a joint research paper on the topic and submitted it for publishing in a renowned Research-Journal. I realize at this stage ; no one helps others, be it a teacher, without fulfilling his self-interest. The credit for research should have gone to individual, but it had to be shared by two. Further in the field of science , it is generally accepted that a senior has conducted a research, using juniors. After B.Sc. Agriculture, I joined M.Sc. (Agronomy). In this program of studies , I had studied about crops. There is no provision for studies on insects , in the program. To become Entomologist , one has to study science of insects. However, my keen interest on weeds prompted me to undertake studies on Agronomy. Unfortunately , I had no options to study simultaneously weeds as well as insects, as a part of M.Sc. program. However , it is a fact that knowledge of science is a great ocean . we only segmented knowledge of science for our own convenience, and thereby compartmentalize the knowledge. Thus we have become prisoner of this segmentation of knowledge & got ourselves detached from other disciplines. It is an irony that in our country there is more fragmentation and negligible independence for working. Admission to Agronomy closed the door of studies of insects for me. However I could not give up my lust for knowledge of insects. As such , I decided to have a modest laboratory on the subject at my home. This approach also insured confidentiality of my work. In 1998 January , my personal laboratory was in my bedroom and I had a collection of 13 colorful varieties of insects. In this laboratory I used plastic jars , commonly use for display of toffees , sweets, biscuits etc. I filled these jars with soil and tied perforated cloth at the opening , to ensure free access to fresh air. The thirteen varieties of insects used to eat different varieties of vegetation and generally most of time they kept busy eating only. Some insects used to eat at night also. Due to large volume eating by insects , there used to be heavy collection of stool of insects in the jars. To clean it, lot of time was consumed. To share this burden of work ; I employed assistant. In the laboratory I also studied effect of solar eclipse on these creatures. World is worried with the fact that polythene is not a biodegradable material. A lot has been written and published on the problem of polythene , in this respect. It struck in my mind, to see effect on insects ,if offers to eat polythene. Cows and buffalos eat polythene, and the same get entangled in their food pipe, killing the animal. In some cases polythene gets deposited in the stomach of the animal and continue remaining there indefinitely without degradation. Once the idea of making insects eat polythene , I started collecting large varieties of insects. In a brief period, my laboratory was congested with number of jars. No. of varieties of insects increased from thirteen to thirty. Every morning I used to go out in hunt of new varieties of insects. I collected different varieties of insects, some even very poisonous. Polythene was cut into small square pieces and placed in the jars containing different varieties of insects. Insects were starved of their normal foods. I wished due to starvation, some insects might start eating polythene. Months passed without any noticeable success. Every morning I used to come across hungry insects only. I tried , from cockroaches to Blister beetles. It was blind bidding only. Sometimes I used to feel like abandoning the efforts. I tried more than hundred insects but there was no sign of bite on polythene piece. After long patience and wait, the success was encountered. Out of 135 insects, there were 5 varieties of insects that ate polythene, under duress. These five insects were kept in continuous observation round the clock. The efforts resulted in success. There was unique insect in the lot who preferred eating some quantity of polythene, even when provided with its normal food. It was an amazing finding. At the time of this experiment, I had one hundred such insects. They were increased to three thousand and were given full attention. This insect of "Beetle" family was christianed by me to be " PLASTIC-BUG" . I started studying about the normal/common food habit of these insects. Over 250 varieties of leaves were offered to these insects , of which 10 varieties of leaves were consumed by these insects with zest and interest. Thereafter I identified the most favored feed of these insects. When leaves of the favored plant and polythene, both were offered to Plastic-bug , it preferred eating leaf to polythene. I felt that, if polythene were soaked in the slurry of the leaves, perhaps Plastic-bug would readily eat the same. This approach proved to be correct. The bug started eating polythene soaked in the juice of its preferred leaf. Its speed of eating polythene increased many folds. Now concerned was about the Plastic-bug fate, who had eaten polythene. It was satisfying to note after weeks observation that the bugs were not dying and were smoothly discharging digested stuff as excreta. The excreta was sticky by feel of touch. It was sent to a laboratory at Bangalore, for investigation. The mistake I did was, that informed them about my finding of Plastic-bug. They were of the opinion that there were fine pieces of polythene present in the excreta. However without knowing the identification of Plastic-bug , they declined to send me the analysis of excreta sample. During the sample period , I happen to meet a friend of mine Shri. Kamlesh Gogia of local newspaper, "DAINIK BHASKAR". I narrated him about my finding of Plastic-bug. He said that this is a revolutionary finding. It should be published immediately so that no one else could steal the research. As I had to do further experiments, and believe that half-done-work need not be made public; I asked Mr. Gogia to wait and assured him that whenever I will make my finding public ; it will be through his newspaper "DAINIK BHASKAR" only. While working on Plastic-bug , I thought that , if bug exists naturally around in large number, it must have been eating polythene of its own. To confirm this , I contacted boys who have been collecting plastic bags. I showed them bug and asked them if any such BUG are seen by them anywhere else. They responded negative. To identify the holes in plastic bags in dumps and ascertain , if they are created by the bug, is a near impossible task. Later on when I studied the pattern of life of so called " Plastic-bug" I noticed that these insects come out in the night and during the daytime , remains under the earth surface, near the plant of their liking. Perhaps , this may be the reason , that the guys collecting polythene bags did not see the Plastic-bug anywhere. Till now I had used white and transparent plastic only. I decided to use pieces from colored plastic bags. After prolonged observation it was noticed that Plastic-bug is a fond of eating black colored plastic. I am yet to understand , as to why Plastic-bug gives priority to eating black plastic bags. One night I observed that the plastic bugs had been eating their own excreta. In animal world many animals do so. On close observation it was noticed that Plastic-bug eats its excreta once only not in the second cycle. To avoid need for chemical analysis of excreta of Plastic-bug , I collected it after 1st as well as 2nd cycle and some polythene film pieces ; on petri plates and put them pits on earth. They were covered by soil and for one month humidity was maintained . After one month , when checked ; there were pieces of polythene in 1st cycle excreta but were absent from that of 2nd cycle . it means , 2nd cycle excreta had completely assimilated into the soil. I felt it to be a great success. In the nature , the so-called Plastic-bug remains active from October to April. In summer it goes into soil and remains in sleepy condition indefinitely. When in October , plants of his choice grow, it comes out again. This lull in the activity of the insect caused a lot of disruption in my study. All the Plastic-bugs , young and old, eat polythene with interest. There is no difference in this respect between male and female. Does all generation of the Plastic-bug eat polythene? To find the answer of this question , I started feeding 150 insects, with polythene. I observe behavior of 2nd and 3rd generation of insects. During study , the lot remained in sleepy condition for a long duration, also I noticed that all generations of insects were eating polythene. On March 1, 2001, due to insistence of my journalist friend , I decided to publicize my finding before the world. I believe , some genes must be responsible for these Plastic-bugs behavior of eating polythene. Shall such a gene be identified and transplanted into elephant like animal , which can eat and digest large volume of polythene. This is only hypothesis , but as we know hypothesis has a great place in scientific studies. May be , people at large may call , propagator of such hypothesis as insane mind. How to use these insects? I have given thought to this question. On unusable land , a big tank to be built where people dump these polythene bags. Plastic-bugs are released in these tanks and polythene bags be sprayed with the juice of plants liked by Plastic-bugs. Degraded polythene bags can be retrieved to be uses as manure. Since news published in general news papers are not accepted by scientific community , before publishing in newspaper , I tried to get my paper published in international scientific magazine. I kept the identification of the insect , a closely guard secret. When I submitted the paper to one of the leading international magazine, the publisher insisted that I reveal the identification of the insect. In question I asked them for a written guarantee that information will be preserved as guarded secret and my work will not be hijacked by others. I got no response. Perhaps , in hurry , they gave the information to a reputed international news agency and e-mailed me accordingly about the same. Since I had committed to "DAINIK BHASKAR" about release of first information about my work through them , I had to pass on the complete details to my journalist friend. In the 1st week of April I gave identification of ' Plastic-bug' and total information to journalist. I released even colored photograph of insect to journalist. Unlike common man , my journalist friend kept this secret . in the meantime , through the Internet surfing , I tried to find out details about similar work , if done , elsewhere. I communicated to over sixteen thousand scientists world over about my work in detail. They appreciated my work heartily. I felt elevated by the findings myself to be the pioneer in this work in our country and decided to reveal the exact identification and the name of insect to some one from our country only , if some scientific organization come forward. I even thought of dedicating my work to such an institution. Finally on April 15th , 2002 DAINIK BHASKAR published prominently my work through 18 editions of their daily publication , through out the country . For next one week I continued to get word of appreciation and congratulation from all over. Various television channels approached me for permission to get photographs of plastic-bug to be shown on their newscast. One TV channel even picked up another insects from my laboratory and put a polythene piece in front of it , but the insect did not respond . they pierced a hole in polythene and took a snap of that insect and polythene piece with hole and created report to suit their requirement. However generally common men and near ones appreciated my work. The moment this news about insect spread out , the scientist in the field become alert. They felt that how , an unknown scientist has found out such an amazing insect , although they have been in the field since long and never come across such a creature. They published their opinion in the press , negating this finding. What were the reasons for their objection? . First they claim that I am not a scientist of Entomology and therefore I cannot do such research . the objection was obviously meaningless. The second objection was on the name of insect "Plastic-bug". This insect is from Beetle family who eat by tearing off their feed where as bug eats by sucking their feed ------ but I had called the insect a BUG. I have been aware of this difference , however , I had given this simple name to insect for ease of remembering by common man. What is great in name? Name could be anything. When a computer virus can have name like "LOVE-BUG" without having a mouth , what's specific on this objection?. Even in insect world anomalies exist. 'Spanishfly' is not a fly but a Beetle , but all entomologists call it a fly. Newspaper themselves replied these objections. Thereafter , such objection continued on personal level. Interestingly , those scientists who called me "FRAUD" ; themselves started research on similar lines in their laboratories. We don't know as to if and when they will be able to identify polythene-eating insect. After the publication of information in the daily newspaper , within few weeks there were two interesting developments. A scientist having affiliation with politics used pressure to know from me the name and identification of insect the Plastic-bug . Influenced by him, I showed the insect to him and another four to five interesting persons at his residence. They were simply wonder struck. Incidentally none of them were knowledgeable to recognize the insect. They used all tactics to know the technical identification of the insect. With great difficulty I could avoid the same. Sometimes later , I happened to meet a specialist in the field of polymers ; engaged in research over a long period. He appreciated and highly praised my work. I had become alert after the so-called political pressure; and had become very cautious . However this expert gave statement in the press appreciating my work and favoring my approach. However , on third meeting with this personality , he first asked me to reveal the identity of this insect. On my denial , he wanted me to declare that the insect is given name 'PLASTIC-BUG' on his suggestion only. In return , he assured that he would propagate this research world over. His approach deeply hurt me. It was nearly a month since the news publication but no Government Research Institution got in touch with me. Some post card communications asking for supply of bugs were received , as certain people wanted to tackle the problem of polythene in their area. Without my working being recognized by any reputed scientific research institution , I was not of opinion to reveal the details. In the mean time the insect was shown to some knowledge seekers and particularly children , while I was all the time worried about theft/hijack of my research. In the mean time some well-off people kept pursuing me , and one of them made me a member of their institution and offered me a handsome fee. He believed that sooner or later I would part with details of my research with him. With such happenings , I was sad. The news was published countrywide but no scientific research institute came forward for interaction . I was very disheartened , more so, when I had offered to dedicate and revealed details to any national reputed research institute. I send paper cuttings to a number of research institutes but received no response. My scientist friends suggested that I submit the project. However , the major hurdle was that without revealing identification of the insect, this could not be done. Opposition as well as indifference of the people had been great discouragement to me. After some week an e-mail received from USA surprised me. The writer of the mail had appreciated my work and had expressed his desire to meet me. I , hesitantly , decided to meet the guy. I was invited to meet him at Delhi. On reaching Delhi , I was very warmly received with high level of hospitality. These people meet me at five-star hotel. One of the official appeared to be scientist , he asked me about the future of Plastic-bug. I informed that I have not decided at the moment. The scientist member told me that Plastic-bug is a research not an Invention so it can't be patented. He opined that Indians may not give importance to my work and declare it is a fraud, he suggested that I reveal the detailed identification of insect to them and commit to them that for coming ten years I will refrain from research in the field. It was a strange condition put by them. They were willing to pay for this favor. They were of the view that they will study the plastic-bug and create man made insect by Genetic engineering , which can be patented. They opined that India couldn't do it. They said that they would create a research team, which will study all aspects of this insect and finally put in the market. I suggested that if they support my research , I could do much better work in my laboratory. They declined to accept my suggestion. They even declined to make me work on the project even if I agree to work with them in USA , since I will keep secret the identification of insect. I wanted them to supply redeveloped plastic-bug to India on favored term but they declined. They also said there will be no formal deal. I took 15 days time from them. Whereas my friends considered this as a lifetime golden opportunity , the knowledgeable authorities of the country cautioned , stating that no natural resource can be sent abroad without consent of Govt. this will amount to antinational act. If the foreigners want to take the insects abroad , Govt. will enter into deal at a suitable compensation. I expressed that Govt. is not giving any attention to this research. To this he dissiduaded me from doing the work. The issue died down here. However I continue receiving e-mails on this issue. Sometimes I feel that the national resource if not put to use for the benefit of the nation is in fact useless. These events caused a lot of turmoil in my mind. Today scientists from the world over asks me as to what happened my research. To ensure confidentiality of my findings, I have released the insects in the nature and decided not to continue my work this season. When October comes , these insects will come out in open. I thought , it is the time to convey information about my partially completed work to fellow human beings. There are millions of insects to be studied. I have studied only 135 of them. The study of these insects in detail may bring forth many such useful insects like "PLASTIC-BUG". Delay in the efforts in this direction does not seem justified. Apparently , the nature selected me to bring forth the world , the Plastic-bug . That's why I was enthralled get engaged into this research on my own initiative and at my own cost. Prosperity from research is a dream , still remain unfulfilled. Encouragement from all in authority to enterprising young generation only , will bring prosperity to the nation and world at large; I believe. Thank you for sparing time for going through the lines written above. Experiences and interactions with herb growers and exporters associated with medicinal and aromatic herb Kasturibhendi (Abelmoschus moschatus) Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Kasturibhendi is a medicinal and aromatic crop preferred and adopted by the herb growers of not only Chhattisgarh but also other parts of India. Many of herb growers are still not aware of the potential market but they are giving preference to Kasturibhendi because its cultivation is very simple and it is best suited as Kharif (rainy) season crop. The Indian farmers have found their well prepared soybean, green gram, black gram fields best suitable for commercial cultivation of this new crop. I have seen hundreds of acres under this crop in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat state of India. In Chhattisgarh, it is under cultivation since 1996. Unfortunately, the Indian researchers have not done serious research on different important aspects of Kasturibhendi and the work they have done, has not reached properly to Indian farmers. Botanical differences between two major species of Abelmoschus Characteristics Abelmoschus Abelmoschus esculentus moschatus 1) Stem Erect, branched, 3-6 feet high, round, towards the base somewhat woody, tender parts covered with sharp bristles, often spotted with purplish specks Stem clothed with long hairs 2) Leaves Alternate, stalked, inferior ones only angular, about the middle of the plant palmate, while the superior ones are subdigitate, with the divisions lanceolate-oblong all seriate and somewhat bristly Polymorphous, cordate, the lower ovate, acute or roundish serrate or irregularly toothed, hairy 3) Flower Axillary, solitary, on short stalks, very large, pale yellow, with a dark crimson bottom Regular, bisexual, involucral bracts 8-12, hairy, yellow with purple centre 4) Fruit Capsule from 6 to 12 inches long and about one inch diameter, somewhat bristly, particularly the ridges, their number corresponding with that of the cells and valves, with a single row of round, smooth seeds in each cell Capsule fulvous hairy, oblonglanceolate, acute, seeds subreniform, blackish You will be surprised to know that most of the improved cultivation practices Indian herb growers are adopting, are the results of their own research and experiences. The innovative farmers have developed and adopted ecofriendly cultivation practices. I want to salute them for their dedication and hard work. The area under Kasturibhendi is increasing very rapidly in different parts of India but the new findings of innovative farmers are not reaching properly to the new growers. This is the reason that most of the new farmers are adopting chemical farming instead of organic farming. The chemical farming is deteriorating the quality and specific smell of Kasturibhendi seeds and the farmers are getting very low market prices for their high input produces. I personally know over 52 herb growers engaged in commercial farming of Kasturibhendi. Fortunately we are in contact with each other and we are sharing our experiences and research findings. Every farmer is sharing one acre of land for experimentation where we try to conduct field experiments based on regional problems. Our emphasis is on quality aspect. In the group of herb growers, the herb growers of Raipur, Bastar, Sarguja, Raigarh, Durg, Dhamtari, Kanker (All in Chhattisgarh), Rajkot and Anand (Gujarat), Harpalpur, Jabalpur, Chindwara, Balaghat (Madhya Pradesh), Gudgaon (Haryana), Oodlabari (West Bengal) etc. are associated. Common and popular names of Marigold around the world. Languages/Regions/Countries Names 1) Arabic Hajai, Hamahama 2) Bengal Genda, Gendha 3) Brazil Cravo de defunto 4) SriLanka African Marigold 5) Egypt Gatife 6) English African Marigold, French Marigold 7) Hindi Genda, Gonda, Gulatora, Lalmurga 8) Iraq Ja'fari 9) Marathi makhamala, Zendu 10) Mexico Cempoalxochitt 11) Persian Sadabarg, Kajekharusa 12) Sanskrit Sthulapushpa, Zandu, Zanduka 13) Telugu Banti 14) Urdu Genda 15) Uriya Gendu The oil extracted from Kasturibhendi is having a great national and international demand. In national and international drug market the oil is known as Ambrette oil. This is used as herbal alternative to Musk. It is commonly known as Kasturibhendi (Kasturi - Musk; Bhendi - Lady’s Finger), Muskdana (Musk - Musk; Dana - Seeds), Latakasturika etc. Its English name is Musk-Mallow (Family :- Malvaceae). Kasturibhendi holds a reputed position in Indian systems of Medicine. According to Ayurveda the seeds are cooling, carminative, aphrodisiac, tonic and useful in intestinal complaints, stomatitis, diseases of heart. According to Unani system of Medicine, the seeds are tonic and stomachic and useful in burning thirst, leucoderma, itch, gonorrhoea, urinary discharge, dyspepsia etc. Its roots and leaves are used for the treatment of sexually transmitted diseases. In standard botanical literatures, I have found this botanical description of Kasturibhendi. It is a tall annual shrub; stem clothed with long and dense hairs; Leaves polymorphous, cordate, the lower ovate, acute or roundish angled, upper Palmately 3-7 lobbed, lobes oblong-ovate, crenate, serrate or irregularly toothed, hairy; Flowers regular, bisexual, involucral bracts 8-12, hairy, yellow with purple centre; Flowers capsule, fulvous hairy, oblong-lanceolate, acute; seeds sub reniform and blackish. The natural occurrence of Kasturibhendi is reported in different parts of India including Chhattisgarh but I have not found a single plant of this herb in wild. Also the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are not aware of its medicinal uses. Lady’s Finger Abelmoschus esculentus Linn. is under cultivation in Chhattisgarh in fairly large areas. In field bunds and wastelands of Chhattisgarh an occurrence of wild relative of cultivated Lady’s finger is reported. Locally it is known as Phutu Bhaji. I am not aware of its correct identification. This wild species is used by the natives of Chhattisgarh and traditional healers are also aware of its medicinal potential. This wild species is not under cultivation in Chhattisgarh. As Allelopath, I have conducted many laboratory and field experiments in order to use the allelopathic potential of different weeds for growth and development of Kasturibhendi. With the help of allelopathic method, we have solved many problems faced by the growers. We have found the allelopathic method as promising tool of organic agriculture. In Kasturibhendi, germination and initial slow growth rate are noted as common problem. In order to root out this problem we conducted a series of experiments using aqueous extracts and leachate of different parts of common weeds in Kasturibhendi fields. In ancient Indian literatures, it is written that the solution of every problem is present in nature and one has to search these solutions sincerely. These experiments helped us to identify some promising extracts and leachate that can be utilized for Kasturibhendi cultivation. As the routine allelopathic methods are known for their complexities, we have developed farmer’s friendly methods. The method is simple. The farmers collect the recommended parts of particular weed, dip it in water in specific ratio, kept it in room temperature, 24 hours after the dipping the leachate are collected or the extraction is performed. Farmers dip the seed in this extracts and leachate for another 24 hours and after this duration, the germination operation is performed. We have observed that this pre sowing soaking treatment of Kasturibhendi seeds not only increases the germination and early seedling vigor but also helps in developing resistance toward soil borne diseases and insect attack during initial growth phase. The farmers using this method do not use the fungicides or other chemicals in order to treat the seeds. Fortunately and luckily, in our experiment we have noted the stimulatory allelopathic effect of obnoxious weed Parthenium hysterophorus L. on this new crop. After getting this encouraging results, our group decided to use it practically at farmer’s field. We were not aware of the lethal effects of parthenin on the quality of Kasturibhendi seeds. So, we decided to use the crop produce only for oil extraction not for preparation of Ayurvedic or Unani drugs. Due to this parthenin compound , responsible for harmful effects of Parthenium, we have not recommended the use of Parthenium leaves as growth stimulant to other herb growers. Very recently I attended the one day brain storming session for Parthenium workers organized by the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India. In this meeting I presented these findings among Parthenium workers. They were surprised to know the useful properties of Parthenium. A biochemist from Uttar Pradesh is now associated with us in order to study the fate of parthenin in Kasturibhendi plant. Like Lady’s finger crop, many destructive insects and diseases attack on this new crop. As Kasturibhendi is in heavy demand due to its typical smell, it is necessary to get more and more aroma from produce (i. e. seeds). The heavy infestation of insects and diseases, motivate the farmers to use heavy doses of agrochemicals to save their crops. The use of agrochemicals even less than the recommended doses, helps in reducing the pest population but it reduces the aroma. Hence, the farmers get very low rates for their produces. We have observed up to 30% yield reduction due to these insects and diseases. Very few farmers are aware of this harmful effects of agrochemicals on the aroma. They believe that the buyers are cheating them by giving lower rates. With the help of group, I have developed many methods in order to repel the insect and pathogens from Kasturibhendi crop. We recommend our farmers to plant Genda (Gonda in Chhattisgarh) Tagetes erecta and Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata) plants in boundary of fields. The Tagetes plants are well known as barrier or guard crop. Its typical smell repel away the pests from field. The beneficial effects of Tagetes on harmful creatures have been well documented. The potential of Andrographis as guard crop is discovered by one of my farmers Mr. Deen Dayal Verma. He is using this guard crop in the commercial cultivation of Safed Moosli and Bach. Now after getting encouraging results from Mr. Verma’s experiment, we are recommending it to other herb growers. You will be surprised to know that many paddy growers have also started planting this useful plant in field bunds in order to repel away the harmful insects. Recently I heard from Mr. Verma that some scientists from nearby city Bilaspur visited the field, collected the data and now they are planning to publish a research paper on this aspect. Let us hope they will mention the discovery of Mr. Verma in original form and give the credit to him. I do not want to comment on this practice but I personally feel that the emphasis should be on search (done by Mr. Verma, a farmer) rather than the research (the scientists are doing).As cattle are an essential part of farmer’s family in India, we are focusing our research on use of cow urine and cow dung as tool for organic cultivation of herbs. Fortunately in India, many organizations have focused their works on this important aspect. This is the reason the use of cow urine and dung as phytomedicine and also as human medicine is increasing in India. Our group has developed very simple method. They collect fresh cow dung and cow urine in equal proportion, mix it and add some herbs like Neem, Kalmegh, Parthenium, Calotropis etc. having wellknown insecticidal properties and keep this solution for 2 months. After 2 months the extraction is done and the solution in applied in the ratio of 1:5 (one part of solution and five parts of water) on standing crop in order to repel away the insects and also to provide organic supplement to standing crop. In Kasturibhendi crop, we apply this "Green spray" in the interval of fifteen days. This spray saves the cost of agrochemicals. This spray is becoming very popular among the farmers. In different ratio, it can be used for pre sowing soaking treatment of Kasturibhendi seeds. We have yet not observed any harmful effect of this spray on any herbs. We always avoid the use of bull’s and pregnant cow’s urine. In case of Urgency, when we use urine from these sources, we use it in the ratio of 1:10 (ten parts of water). We are using this spray since1996. According to the buyers from nearby metros mainly from Kolkata, there is a heavy demand of Kasturibhendi seeds in both national and international markets. But due to lack of communication, the farmers are not aware of this demand. The buyers and exporters, exploit the farmers by saying that there is no demand and taking advantage of farmer’s tension, they purchase the seeds at throw away prices. According to the Chhattisgarh farmers, even in this so called throw away price they are earning more than the existing traditional crops. Unfortunately, in Chhattisgarh even a single oil extraction is not established. I am sure that these units can give many times more return to the Kasturibhendi growers. I am not aware about the cultivation status of this useful crop in other parts of the world, but I am sure that the experimental and research findings of Chhattisgarh farmers will be of great use for them and this is the only intention behind writing this article. Allelopathic research on chickpea seeds in Chhattisgarh (India) region ; An overview Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved The term Allelopathy is derived from two Greek words Allelon means each other and Pathos means to suffer i.e., the injurious effects of one upon another. However, Molisch (1973) coined this term which refers to all biochemical interactions (stimulatory and inhibitory) among plants, including microorganisms. It represents the plant against plant aspect of the broader field of chemical ecology. Some authors have used the term in a more restricted senses to describe only the harmful effect of one higher plant upon another. Allelochemicals which inhibited the growth of some species at certain concentrations may stimulate the growth of same or different species at lower concentrations (Narwal, 1994). Allelopathy is relatively a new branch of science (Lal and Oudhia, 1999). With the help of Allelopathy, weed-crop, crop-weed, cropcrop and weed-weed interactions can easily be explained. Under field conditions weed infestation is one of the major factors responsible for yield reduction in crops. Historically, most investigators have attributed these losses to various forms of competition between the weeds and crops and allelopathic interactions between them were not considered. However, findings after 1950’s have shown that allelopathic interactions between the crops and weeds were also partly responsible for such losses in crop yields. As the allelopathic effects are both positive and negative, both of these effects can be utilized for higher crop production (Oudhia et al., 1999a). Negative (stimulatory) allelopathic effects of any weed on crops can be utilized to develop ecofriendly, cheap and effective "Green growth promoters’. Similarly, the positive (inhibitory) allelopathic effects of any weed or crops on weeds can be utilized to develop "Green herbicides" (Oudhia et al. 1999b). Many studies conducted at the Department of Agronomy, IGAU, Raipur to know the allelopathic effects of common weeds on germination and seedling vigor of many popular agricultural crops like rice, wheat, maize groundnut etc. and these studies have revealed that all weeds are not harmful and also beneficial extracts of these weeds can be utilized for crop production (Oudhia and Tripathi, 1999a). Chickpea is one of the major rabi crops of Chhattisgarh. Many weeds infest chickpea fields every year (Oudhia and Dixit, 1994; Oudhia and Tripathi, 1999b). Due to non-availability of any information on allelopathic effects of common chickpea weeds on germination and seedling vigor of chickpea, series of experiments were conducted during 1994-2000. The major objectives of these studies were (a) To evaluate the allelopathic potential of different parts of weeds (b) To find out farmer’s friendly method for preparation of weed extracts ( c) To identify the promising and potential extract for increasing chickpea production. Method adopted for studies In all experiments different parts of weeds were collected from fields adjacent to Agriculture College Campus randomly before flowering, washed thoroughly, cut into fine pieces and immersed in distilled water in different ratio (i.e. 1/10,1/15,1/20,1/25, w/v, respectively). In majority of experiments, 1:10w/v concentration was used. The weed or weed parts were decayed in water for different durations i.e. 24,120,168,216 and 264 hours. After decaying, the extraction was done and extracts were passed / filtered through sieve (2mm mesh). These extracts were applied on chickpea seeds kept in petridishes (10cm dia.) or seeds were soaked overnight in extracts and sown in earthen pots. In case of control, distilled water was used. Germination was noted at 3,5,7,9 and 11 DAS (Days After Sowing) and abnormalities in seedling produced by harmful extracts were also noted. The seedling elongation was noted at 11DAS. The pH and electrical conductivity of extracts were also measured with the help of pH meter and EC bridge. The experiments were laid out in Completely Randomized Design and Randomized Block Design. Each experiment was replicated for at least 5 times and repeated for at least 3 times to minimize the errors. The methods described above was a new method for allelopathic studies earlier and now it is recognized as most simple and farmer’s friendly method. The allelopathic effects of weeds used for study and promising extracts identified are described below. (A)Allelopathic effects of Parthenium hysterophorus Parthenium hysterophours, commonly known as Congress weed, Feverfew, White top, Ramphool, Gajarghas etc., is a common problematic weed in chickpea fields of Chhattisgarh (Vyas and Oudhia, 1998). Adverse effects of Parthenium not only on human beings but also on animal and crop health have been well documented (Mahadevappa, 1997). Positive and negative allelopathic effects of Parthenium on many agricultural crops have been reported (Oudhia et al., 1997a; Oudhia and Tripathi, 1998a). In experiments conducted at IGAU, Raipur Parthenium stem + leaf extract of 264 hours was identified as promising extract whereas Parthenium rood extracts of 120 and 168 hours were identified as most harmful extracts for chickpea (Oudhia et al., 1997b). (B)Allelopathic effects of Blumea lacera Blumea lacera, locally known as Kukurmutta, is one of the common rabi season weeds in chickpea fields. Allelopathic effects of Blumea on agricultural crops have been reported (Oudhia and Thakur, 1996; Oudhia 1997, 1999a; Oudhia and Ganguli, 1999; Oudhia and Tripathi, 1999c; Oudhia et al., 1997c, 1998a, 1998b). In experiments conducted at IGAU, Raipur, Blumea leaf and root extracts of 264 hours, were identified as promising extracts whereas stem + leaf extract of 120 hours and stem extract of 120 hours were identified as most harmful extracts for chickpea (Oudhia et al 1997d). (C)Allelopathic effects of Lantana camara Lantana camara is one of the 10 worst weeds of the world and is serious weed in 14 crops in 47 countries. However, its allelopathic effects on crops have been studied least (Narwal, 1994). Lantana is a common weed of Chhattisgarh region (Oudhia and Ganguli, 1998). Allelopathic effects of Lantana camara on germination and seedling vigor or many agricultural crops have been reported (Oudhia and Tripathi, 1999d, Oudhia et al. 1998c). In experiments conducted at IGAU, Raipur, stem extract of 120 hours and stem extract of 264 hours were identified as most promising extracts whereas stem + leaf extract of 264 hours was identified as most harmful extract (Oudhia et. al., 1999c) (D)Allelopathic effects of Ageratum conyzoides Ageratum conyzoides, locally known as Mahkua, is a weed of Compositae family. Allelopathic effects of Ageratum on many agricultural crops have been reported (Oudhia et al,. 1995, 1997a). In experiments conducted at IGAU, Raipur, Ageratum stem extract of 264 hours as most promising extract for chickpea (Oudhia et al., 1998d). (E)Allelopathic effects of Ipomoea carnea (F)Ipomoea carnea, locally known as Beshram, is an exotic weed and introduced in India as green manure crop. Allelopathic effects of Ipomoea on many agricultural crops have been reported (Oudhia and Tripathi, 1998b). In experiments conducted at IGAU, Raipur, Ipomoea root extracts of 168 hours and 264 hours and stem extracts of 264 hours as most promising extracts. (Oudhia and Tripathi, 2000). (G)Allelopathic effects of Calotropis gigantea (H)Calotropis gigantea, locally known as Fudhar, is common wasteland and bund weed in Chhattisgarh. Positive and negative allelopathic effects of Calotropis on many agricultural crops have been reported (Oudhia et al., 1998e and 1998f; Oudhia and Tripathi, 1997). In experiments conducted at IGAU, Raipur, Calotropis stem extract of 264 hours and leaf extract of 216 hours was identified as promising extracts whereas stem extract of 216 hours was identified as most harmful extract (Oudhia et al., 1997e). (I)Allelopathic effects of Datura stramonium Datura is an important weed in USA, Australia, tropics and subtropics. It contains a number of alkaloids mainly Scopolamine and Hyoscyamins which are produced in the roots and translocated to the leaves and seeds. Datura is a common weed of Chhattisgarh and its allelopathic effects on many agricultural crops have been reported (Oudhia et al., 1996b and 1999d; Oudhia and Tripathi, 1998c). In experiments conducted at IGAU, Raipur, Datura stem + leaf extract of 264 hours was identified as promising extract whereas stem + leaf extract of 216 hours and leaf extract of 168 hours were identified most harmful extracts (Oudhia et al., 1998g). Besides these weeds, allelopathic effects of leaf extracts of Aeschynomene americana, Abutilon indicum and Euphorbia hirta were also studied. These extracts produced positive (inhibitory) allelopathic effects on germination and seedling vigor of chickpea seeds (Oudhia, 1999g). The experiments are still in progress at IGAU, Raipur. In these studies, the isolation of allelochemicals from extracts was not done because of lack of laboratory facilities and high cost of chemical analysis. However, from these studies many basic informations have been gathered. The studies revealed that (a) All weeds are not harmful, (2) Different parts of weed have different allelopathic potential, (3) The method adopted for preparation of extracts can alter the allelopathic potential of weed parts. The studies also indicated that there is a tremendous scope of utilizing the extracts of different weeds for presowing soaking of chickpea seeds in order to stimulate the early germination and seedling vigor. References Lal, B, and Oudhia, P. (1999). Beneficial effects of Allelopathy : I. Crop production. Indian J. Weed Sci. 31 (1 & 2) : 103-105. Mahadevappa, M. (1997). Ecology, distribution, menace and management of Parthenium. In : Proc. 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