Pankaj Oudhia's Research Documents on Biodiversity and Traditional Healing. Part-5

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Allelopathic research on rice 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 (1937) coined this term which refers to all biochemical interactions (stimulatory and inhibitory) among plants, including micro organisms. It represents the plant-against plant aspect of the broader field of chemical ecology. Some authors have used the term in a more restricted sense to describe only the harmful effects 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. Positive (inhibitory) allelopathic effects of any weed on other weeds can be exploited to develop ecofriendly, cheap and effective "Green herbicides’. Many experiments conducted around the world have clearly indicated that "Green herbicides" containing "Green Allelochemicals" are an integral part of eco or organic farming (Oudhia et al., 1999a). Use of natural compounds as herbicides or as the chemical basis for the development of new herbicides offers several advantages. (a) The wide array of phytotoxic compounds produced by plants provide many complex chemical structures that are unlikely to be discovered in the traditional synthetic strategies used by pesticide companies. (b) Degradation of natural compounds in the environment proceeds faster than that of synthetic compounds and thus reduces the environment pollution and ground water contamination etc.( c) The halogenated hydrocarbons which constitute about 60% of the registered herbicides are of environmental concern, while vast majority of natural compounds from plants pose little health hazards and therefore, are environmentally safe (Narwal, 1994). The negative (stimulatory) allelopathic effects of weeds on agricultural crops can be used to develop 'Green growth promoters'. Many studies conducted at Department of Agronomy, Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur (India) have clearly revealed that stimulatory allelopathic effects of weeds on crops can be utilized successfully for higher crop production (Oudhia, 1996, Lal and Oudhia, 1999). Weeds are always considered as unwanted plants (Oudhia, 1999a). They compete with agricultural crops for nutrient, light and moisture and harbor many diseases and insects (Oudhia, 1999b). In ancient Indian literatures, it is mentioned that every plant on this earth is useful for human beings, crops and animals (Oudhia, 1999c). The only need is to identify its uses. Hence, we can consider the weeds as useful plants. Chhattisgarh is rich in bio-diversity (Oudhia, 1998a and 1999b) and medicinal weeds (Oudhia and Dixit, 1994; Oudhia and Tripathi, 1998a; Oudhia et al., 1998a). Allelopathic (Oudhia, 1996 and 1999e; Oudhia et al., 1999b) and industrial uses of common weeds of Chhattisgarh have been reported. It has been also revealed that weeds having medicinal values are a boon for Chhattisgarh farmers (Oudhia and Tripathi 1999c). Chhattisgarh is also known as 'Rice bowl of India' and the area under high yielding Rice and hybrid Rice varieties are increasing very rapidly (Oudhia et al., 1999c, 1999d, 1999e .and 1999f). Many weeds including Echinochloa colonum, Cynodon dactylon, Cyperus rotundus, Parthenium hysterophorus, Blumea lacera, Ageratum conyzoides, lpomoea carnea, Calotropis gigantea etc. infest Rice fields and bunds in Chhattisgarh region (Pandey et al. 1999, Oudhia, 1999f and 1999g). Allelopathic effects of these weeds on germination and seedling vigor of Rice were not well studied. Due to non-availability of any information regarding allelopathic effects of different parts of common weeds including Parthenium hysterophorus, Blumea lacera, Lantana camara, Ageratum conyzoides, lpomoea carnea, Calotropis gigantea, Datura stramonium etc. on germination and seedling vigor of Rice varieties like Mahamaya, Proagro-6201, Proagro-6111 etc., a series of experiments were started at Department of Agronomy, IGAU, Raipur from 1995. The objectives of studies were (i) To evaluate the allelopathic potential of different parts of weed, (ii) To find out farmer's friendly method for preparation of weed extracts, (iii) To identify the promising and potential extract for increasing Rice production. In all experiments different parts of weeds were collected from fields adjacent of 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, 1:10 w/v concentration was used. The weeds or weed parts were decayed in water for different duration i. e., 24, 120, 168,216 and 264 hours. After decaying the extraction was done and extracts were passed/filtered through sieve (2 mm mesh). These extracts were applied on Rice seeds is kept in petridishes (10 cm 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 seedlings produced by harmful extracts were also noted. The pH and electrical conductivity of extracts were also measured with the help of pH meter and conductivity bridge. The experiments were -lid out in Completely Randomized Design and Randomized Block Design. Each experiment was replicated for atleast 5 times and repeated for a atleast 3 times to avoid the errors. The method described above was a new method for allelopathic studies earlier and now it is recognized as most simple and farmer's friendly method. Many scientists around the world have opinion that this is an unique method and they have termed it as new Ollelopathic (O for Oudhia) method. The weeds used for study are given in Table 1. The allelopathic effects of weeds used for study and promising extracts identified are described separately. (A) ALLELOPATHIC EFFECTS OF PARTHENIUM HYSTEROPHORUS Parthenium hysterophorus is a common problematic weed in wastelands and crop fields in India. Parthenium is one of the most feared weed species and believed to have entered India in mid fifties (Oudhia, 1998b, Vyas and Oudhia , 1999). Adverse effects of Parthenium not only on human beings but also on animal health have been well documented. The chemical analysis has indicated that all the plant parts including trichomes and pollens contain toxin called sesquiterpene lactones. The major components of toxin being parthenin and other phenolic acids such as caffeic acid, vanillic acid, anisic acid, chlorogenic acid, parahydroxybenzoic acid and p-anisic acid are lethal to human beings, animals and crops. Parthenium has prolific seed bearing capacity producing a minimum of 330 crores of pollen per m2 land area, of which 1500 to 20000 seeds are produced per plant per year depending upon growth, habitat and longevity. Its high rate of fecundity, efficient seed dispersal, mechanisms due to the presence of two persistent disc florets which act as floats coupled with adverse allelopathic effects on many species enable its quick spread and establishment (Mahadevappa, 1997, Oudhia 1998c). Positive and negative allelopathic effects of Parthenium on many agricultural crops have been reported (Oudhia et al. 1997a 1997b, Oudhia and Tripathi, 1998b). In experiments conducted at IGAU, Raipur, Parthenium leaf extract (5%) of 24 hours was identified as promising extract whereas Parthenium leaf extract (6.7%) of 24 hours was identified as harmful extract. (B) ALLELOPATHIC EFFECTS OF BLUMEA LACERA Blumea lacera, is one of the common rabi season weeds of India. In Chhattisgarh earlier Blumea was bund weed but now it has became the weed of upland crop fields. Allelopathic effects of Blumea on agricultural crops have been reported (Oudhia and Thakur, 1996, Oudhia 1997, 1999 h and 1999I; Oudhia and Ganguli, 1999; Oudhia and Tripathi 1999d: Oudhia et al., 1997c and 1997d, Oudhia et a/„ 1998b and 1998c). The -experiments for evaluating the allelopathic potential of Blumea lacera on agricultural crops are first time conducted in the world at IGAU, Raipur. In experiments conducted at Blumea stem extract (1:10) of 168 hours and leaf extract of 216 hours were identified as promising extracts whereas harmful effects of stem extract of 216 hours have been noted. ( C) ALLELOPATHIC EFFECTS OF DATURA STRAMONIUM Datura stramonium is 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. In podzolic soil the toxicity of alkaloids to seed germination persisted up to 15 weeks in the field and up to 35 weeks under controlled conditions. That is why Australian farmers complain failures of Cotton, Soybean and Sorghum in the fields heavily infested with this weed because total alkaloid concentrations in the soil was 0.02% (Narwal, 1994), Datura is common weed of Chhattisgarh and its allelopathic effects on many agricultural crops have been reported (Oudhia et al. 1996a, 1998d and 1999g: Oudhia and Tripathi 1998b and 2000a). In experiments conducted on stem and leaf extract of 168 hours were identified as promising extracts whereas stem extract of 264 hours was identified as harmful extract. (D) 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). Alletopathic effects of Lantana camara on germination and seedling vigor of many agricultural crops have been reported (Oudhia, 2000a Oudhia and Tripathi, 1999e, 2000b, 2000c, 2000d; Oudhia et a1., 1998e). In experiments conducted, on stem + leaf extract of 168 hours and 216 hours were identified as promising extracts. Root extract of 168 hours was identified as harmful extract. (E)ALLELOPATHIC EFFECTS OF AGERATUM CONYZOIDES Allelopathic effects of this roadside, wasteland and field weed on agricultural crops have been reported (Oudhia, 2000b; Oudhia et a1., 1995, 1996b and 1998f). In experiments conducted, Ageratum stem+leaf extract of 216 hours and leaf extract of 216 hours were identified as promising extract whereas Ageratum root extract of 264 hours was identified as harmful extracts. (F) ALLELOPATHIC EFFECTS OF IPOMOEA CARNEA lpomoea carnea, is an exotic weed and introduced in India as green manure crop. Allelopathic effects of lpomoea on many agricultural crops have been reported (Oudhia, 2000b ; Oudhia and Tripathi, 1997 a and 1998c). In experiment conducted on lpomoea leaf extract of 264 hours was identified as promising extract. Maximum harmful effects of stem + leaf extract of 168 hours was observed and this extract was identified as harmful extract. (G) ALLELOPATHIC EFFECTS OF CALOTROPIS GIGANTEA Calotropis gigantea, is common wasteland and bund weed in Chhattisgarh. Like Blumea, allelopathic studies related to Calotropis were conducted for the first time in the world. Allelopathic effects of Calotropis on germination and seedling vigor of many agricultural crops have been reported (Oudhia et al., 1997d and 1998g and 1998h, Oudhia and Tripathi, 1997b). In experiments conducted, Calotropis stem + leaf extract of 216 hours was identified as promising extract whereas leaf extract of 120 hours was identified as harmful extract. The experiments are still in progress at IGAU, Raipur. In these studies, the isolation of the allelochemicals from extracts was not done because of lack of laboratory facilities and high cost of the chemical analysis weeds have different allelopathic potential. However, from these studies many basic informations have been gathered. The studies revealed that (i) Different parts of weed have different allelopathic potential, (ii) The method adopted for preparing extract can alter the allelopathic potential of weed parts. The study indicated that there is a tremendous scope of utilizing the extracts of different weeds for pre sowing soaking of Rice seeds in order to stimulate the early germination seedling vigor. REFERENCES Lal, B. and P.Oudhia (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. :Proc. First International Confr. On Parthenium Management (Vol. 1) UAS, Dharwad, 6-8 Oct. 1997:1-12. Molisch, H. 1937. Der Enfusslinear Pflanze aufdie andere- Allelopathic Fischer, Jena, GDR. Narwal, S.S. 1994. Allelopathy in Crop Production. Scientific Publishers, Jodhpur. pp. 288. Oudhia. Pankaj 1996. Allelopathic effects of selected weeds on crops. M.Sc. (Ag.) Thesis, Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur (India).pp. 250. Oudhia, P. 1997. Evaluation of host specificity of Blumea leaf beetle (Chrysolina sp.nr. madrasae Jackoby). Insect Environment. 3 (3) : 80. Oudhia, P. 1998a Harmony with nature. Abstract All India Conf. on Sci. and Engin. for holistic Dev. and meditation Retreat at Brahma Kumaris, Shantivan, Talheti, Abu Road. 23-26 Oct.: 2. Oudhia, P. 1998b. Parthenium hysterophorus : A curse for the bio-diversity of Chhattisgarh Plains. Abstract. National Res. Seminar on Biochemical Changes. An Impact on Environ, R.D. Govt. P.G. College, Mandla, 30-31 July: 26. Oudhia, P. 1998c. Gajarghas: Ek Ghatak Shatru (Hindi) Pbl. Agrocrat's Society For Rural Development, Raipur (India), pp. 50. Oudhia. P. 1999a. Medicinal Weeds in Groundnut Fields of Chhattisgarh (India). International Chickpea and Pigeonpea Newsletter (ICRISAT). 19:62-64. Oudhia, P. 1999b. Studies on Allelopathy and medicinal weeds in chickpea fields. International Chickpea and Pigeonpea Newsletter (ICRISAT). 6: 29-33. Oudhia, P. 1999c. Medicinal weeds in wheat fields of Chhattisgarh (India). Rachis (ICARDA). 18 (1) : 40- 41. Oudhia, P. 1999d. The possibilities of utilizing beneficial effects of Indian classical music for crop production with special reference to Chhattisgarh : A Review. Abstract. National Seminar on Music, Kamla Devi Sangeet Mahavidyalaya, Raipur, 12-14 March: 5. Oudhia, P. 1999e. Allelopathic effects of some obnoxious weeds on germination of Melilotus alba. Legume Res. 22 (2): 133- 134. Oudhia, P. 1999f. Phyto-sociological studies of rainy season wasteland weeds with special reference to Parthenium hysterophorus L. in Raipur (India) district. Asian J.Microbiol. Biotech and Environ. Sci. (In press). Oudhia, P. 1999g. Medicinal weeds in rice fields of Chhattisgarh (India). International Rice Res. Notes (IRRI) . 24 (1): 40. Oudhia, P. 1999h. Blumea leaf beetle in Chhattisgarh plain. Insect. Environ. 5 (1) : 22. Oudhia, P. 1999i. Effect of some botanicals on hatchability of Blumea leaf beetle. Insect Environ. 4(4): 154. Oudhia, P. 2000a. Allelopathic effect of Lantana camara L. on germination of Soybean. Legume Res. (In press) Oudhia, P. 2000b. Allelopathic effects of Ageratum and Ipomoea carnea on mustard. Eco Environ. And Consv. (In press). Oudhia, P. and A.Dixit. 1994. Weeds in Ambikapur region (Madhya Pradesh) and their medicinal use. Weed News. 1 (2) : 19-21. Oudhia, P. and R.N.Ganguli, 1999. Chrysolina madrasea : A potential bio-control agent for Blumea lacera. Abstract VIII Biennial Conf. of Indian Society of Weed Sci., BHU, Varanasi, 5-7 Feb..-134. Oudhia, P. and B.S. Thakur 1996. New record of the leaf beetle on a weed. Current Res. 25:218. Oudhia, P. and R.S. Tripathi, 1997a. Germination and seedling vigor of soybean as affected by Allelopathy of lpomoea carnea Jacq. Legume Res. 20 (3/4): 227- 229. Oudhia, P. and R.S. Tripathi, 1997b. Allelopathic potential of Calotropis gigantea. R.Br. World Weeds. 4:109-119. Oudhia, P. and R.S. Tripathi, 1998a. The possibilities of utilization of medicinal weeds to increase the income of the farmers. Abstract. National Seminar on Medicinal Hant Resources development. Organized by Gujarat Government and AADAR, Gandhi Labour Institute. Ahmedabad. 4-5 Oct.: 3. Oudhia P. and R.S. Tripathi, 1998b. Allelopathic effects of Parthenium hysterophours L. on kodo, mustard and problematic weeds. Proc. First International Conf. On Parthenium Management (Vol. II), UAS, Dharwad, 6-8 Oct. 1997 136-139. Oudhia, P. and R.S. Tripathi, 1998c. Allelopathic potential of Ipomoea carnea Jacq. Agril. Biol Res. 14 (3&4) : 1-8. Oudhia, P. and R. S. Tripathi, 1999a. Scope of cultivation of important medicinal plants in Chhattisgarh plains. Proc. National Conf. On Health Care and Development of Herbal Medicines. IGAU, Raipur (India)29-30Aug. 1997:215-222. Oudhia, P. and R.S.Tripathi 1999b. Medicinal Weeds of Raipur and Durg (M.P.) region. Proc. Nat. Conf. on Health Care and Dev. of Herbal Medicine. IGAU, Raipur 29.30. August. Oudhia, P. and R.S. Tripathi, 1999c. Medicinal weeds: A boon for the farmers of Chhattisgarh.: Abstract. VIII Biennial Conference of Indian Society of Weed Science, BHU, Varanasi, 5-7 Feb.: 152. Oudhia, P. and R.S. Tripathi, 1999d. A useful weed Blumea lacera L.: A review. Indian J.WeedSci. 31 (1 & 2): 108-109. Oudhia, P., and R.S. Tripathi 1999e. Allelopathic effect of Lantana camara L. on Rice Agril. Sci. Digest 19(1) : 43-45. Oudhia P., and R.S. Tripathi, 2000a. Germination of mustard as affected by Allelopathy of Datura stramonium L. Weed News (In press) Oudhia, P., and R.S. Tripathi, 2000b. Allelopathic effect of Lantana camara L. on germination of Kodo (Paspalum scrobiculatum L.) Weed News (In press). Oudhia, P., and R.S. Tripathi, 2000c. Allelopathic effect of Lantana camara L. on germination and seedling vigor of mustard. Bhartiya Krishi Anusandhan Patrika (In press). Oudhia, P., and R.S.Tripathi, 2000d. Allelopathic effects of Lantana . camara on Wheat. Crop Res. (In press). Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1995. Allelopathic effect of Ageratum conyzoides on germination of linseed var. Kiran. Weed News: 2 (1 &2) 15-18. Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1996a. Allelopathic effect of Datura stramonium L. on Linseed. Agrl. Biol. Res. 12 (1 & 2): 12-17. Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi 1996b. Allelopathic effect of Ageratum conyzoides L. on paddy. Abstract. International Symposium on rainfed Rice for Sustainable Food Security, CRRI, Cuttack, 23-25 Sept. : 95. Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1997a. Allelopathic effect of White top (Parthenium hysterophorus L.) on Chickpea. Legume Res. 20 (2): 117-120. Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1997b. Allelopathic effect of Parthenium hysterophorus L. on germination of Linseed. Indian J. Plant Physiol. 2 (4) : 327-329. Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1997c. Allelopathic effect of Blumea lacera L. on wheat. Indian J. Weed Sci. 29 (1 & 2): 4-7. Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1997d. Allelopathic effect of Blumea lacera L. on chickpea and rabi weeds. Agril. Sci. Digest. 17 (14) : 275-278. Oudhia, P., B.S. Joshi and V.K.Kosta. 1998a. The possibilities of preparing Homoeopathic drugs from the obnoxious weeds of Chhattisgarh. Bhartiya Krishi Anusandhan Patrika. 13 (1 & 2) : 53-57. Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1998b. Allelopathic effect of Blumea lacera L. on Rice and common kharif weeds. Oryza. 35(2): 175-177. Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1998c. Germination and seedling vigor of mustard as affected by Allelopathy of Blumea lacera L. Agril. Sci. Digest. 18 (3) : 183-16. Oudhia, P.,S.S. Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1998d. Germination and seedling vigor of chickpea as affected by Allelopathy of Datura stramonium . L. Int. Chickpea and Pigeonpea News letter (ICRIST). 522-24. Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1998e. Negative (stimulatory) Allelopathy of Lantana camara L on linseed var. Kiran. : Abstract. International Symp. on Microbial Biotech for Sustainable Dev. and Productivity, R.D.U., Jabalpur 14-16 November: 64, Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1998f. Germination and seedling vigor of chickpea as affected by Allelopathy of Ageratum conyzoides L. Abstract. National Symposium on Management of Biotic and Abiotic Stresses in Pulse Crops, IIPR, Kanpur, 26-28 June : 40. Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1998g. Allelopathic effect of Calotropis gigantea R.Br. on Wheat: Abstract. Ill International Cong. on Allelopathy in Eco. Agr. and Forestry, UAS, Dharwad 18-21 Aug.: 151. Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1998h. Stimulatory Allelopathy of Calotropis gigantea R.Br. on germination and seedling vigor of Linseed. Abstract. First Inter. Agronomy Cong. on Agronomy, Environ, and Food Security for 21st Century, Vigyan Bhawan, N. Delhi 23-27 Nov. 227. Oudhia, P., R.S.Tripathi and P.Katiyar. 1999a. Weed management through Green Allelo- chemicals :an eco-friendly approach towards sustainable agriculture. Abstract. National Seminar on Chemistry of Environmental Pollution with Special Emphasis on Pesticides, Dept. of Chemistry, Govt. D.B Girls PG College, Raipur (India). 28-29 Jan:22. Oudhia, P., N.Pandey and R.S. Tripathi. 1999b. Allelopathic effects of obnoxious weeds on germination and seedling vigor of hybrid Rice. International Rice Research Notes (IRRI). 24(2): 36. Oudhia, P., N.Pandey and R.S. Tripathi and R.N.Ganguli. 1999c. Reaction of hybrid Rice varieties to gall midge (Orseolia oryzae). Insect Environ. 4(4) : 134. Oudhia, P., N. Pandey and R.S. Tripathi and R.N.Ganguli. 1999d. Effect of nitrogen and water management practices on gall midge (Orseolia oryzae) infestation in hybrid Rice. Insect Environment. 4 (4): 199-120. Oudhia, P., N. Pandey and R.S. Tripathi and R.N.Ganguli. 1999e. Gall midge (Orseolia oryzae) infestation in hybrid Rice as affected by Agronomical practices. Insect. Environ. 4 (4) : 123-124. Oudhia, P., N.Pandey and R.S. Tripathi and R.N.Ganguli, 1998f. Response of different hybrid rice varieties to Brown Plant Hopper {Nilaparvata lugens (Stal.)} Insect Environ. 5(1):10-11. Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1999g. Germination and seedling vigor of Rice var. Mahamaya as affected by Allelopathy of Datura stramonium. Crop. Res. 18 (1) : 46-49. Pandey, N., P., Oudhia, S.S. Kolhe and R.S.Tripathi. 1999. Identification of weed flora of paddy fields and bunds in Raipur (Chhattisgarh) region of India. VIII Biennial Conference of Indian Society of Weed Science, BHU, Varanasi, 5-7 Feb. p. 142. Vyas, S. and P, Oudhia, 1999., Parthenium hysterophorus L. : A potential threat to public health, crop productivity and bio-diversity . of Chhattisgarh. Abstract National Seminar on Geography ' with special Emphasis on Environment, Durga College, Raipur (India), 6-7 March : 3. (Source : Advances in Agricultural Research in India; Special Volume - II on Rice Research and management in India, Vol XIV, December, 2000 : 69-80) Table - 1 Weeds Used for Study Species Local Name Remarks Parthenium hysterophorus Gajar Gas Obnoxious weed, harmful for human beings, animals and crops Lantana camara Goti phool Obnoxious weed found as wasteland weed in Chhattisgarh Blumea lacera Kukurmutta Upland rabi weed Ageratum conyzoides Gandhila Crop and wasteland weed Ipomoea carnea Beshram Wasteland weed, shelter place of harmful insects and pathogens Calotropis gigantea Fudhar Wasteland weed Datura stramonium Dhatura Wasteland weed Obnoxious weed in Australia. Cyperus rotundus Motha Obnoxious weed in all most all crops of Chhattisgarh Aeschynomene americana Soli Common problematic weed in Rice fields and bunds Abutilon indicum Raksi Kharif weed Echinochloa colonum Sawan Obnoxious kharif weed REFERENCES Lal, B. and P.Oudhia (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. :Proc. First International Confr. On Parthenium Management (Vol. 1) UAS, Dharwad, 6-8 Oct. 1997:1-12. Molisch, H. 1937. Der Enfusslinear Pflanze aufdie andere- Allelopathic Fischer, Jena, GDR. Narwal, S.S. 1994. Allelopathy in Crop Production. Scientific Publishers, Jodhpur. pp. 288. Oudhia. Pankaj 1996. Allelopathic effects of selected weeds on crops. M.Sc. (Ag.) Thesis, Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur (India).pp. 250. Oudhia, P. 1997. Evaluation of host specificity of Blumea leaf beetle (Chrysolina sp.nr. madrasae Jackoby). Insect Environment. 3 (3) : 80. Oudhia, P. 1998a Harmony with nature. Abstract All India Conf. on Sci. and Engin. for holistic Dev. and meditation Retreat at Brahma Kumaris, Shantivan, Talheti, Abu Road. 23-26 Oct.: 2. Oudhia, P. 1998b. Parthenium hysterophorus : A curse for the bio-diversity of Chhattisgarh Plains. Abstract. National Res. Seminar on Biochemical Changes. An Impact on Environ, R.D. Govt. P.G. College, Mandla, 30-31 July: 26. Oudhia, P. 1998c. Gajarghas: Ek Ghatak Shatru (Hindi) Pbl. Agrocrat's Society For Rural Development, Raipur (India), pp. 50. Oudhia. P. 1999a. Medicinal Weeds in Groundnut Fields of Chhattisgarh (India). International Chickpea and Pigeonpea Newsletter (ICRISAT). 19:62-64. Oudhia, P. 1999b. Studies on Allelopathy and medicinal weeds in chickpea fields. International Chickpea and Pigeonpea Newsletter (ICRISAT). 6: 29-33. Oudhia, P. 1999c. Medicinal weeds in wheat fields of Chhattisgarh (India). Rachis (ICARDA). 18 (1) : 40- 41. Oudhia, P. 1999d. The possibilities of utilizing beneficial effects of Indian classical music for crop production with special reference to Chhattisgarh : A Review. Abstract. National Seminar on Music, Kamla Devi Sangeet Mahavidyalaya, Raipur, 12-14 March: 5. Oudhia, P. 1999e. Allelopathic effects of some obnoxious weeds on germination of Melilotus alba. Legume Res. 22 (2): 133- 134. Oudhia, P. 1999f. Phyto-sociological studies of rainy season wasteland weeds with special reference to Parthenium hysterophorus L. in Raipur (India) district. Asian J.Microbiol. Biotech and Environ. Sci. (In press). Oudhia, P. 1999g. Medicinal weeds in rice fields of Chhattisgarh (India). International Rice Res. Notes (IRRI) . 24 (1): 40. Oudhia, P. 1999h. Blumea leaf beetle in Chhattisgarh plain. Insect. Environ. 5 (1) : 22. Oudhia, P. 1999i. Effect of some botanicals on hatchability of Blumea leaf beetle. Insect Environ. 4(4): 154. Oudhia, P. 2000a. Allelopathic effect of Lantana camara L. on germination of Soybean. Legume Res. (In press) Oudhia, P. 2000b. Allelopathic effects of Ageratum and Ipomoea carnea on mustard. Eco Environ. And Consv. (In press). Oudhia, P. and A.Dixit. 1994. Weeds in Ambikapur region (Madhya Pradesh) and their medicinal use. Weed News. 1 (2) : 19-21. Oudhia, P. and R.N.Ganguli, 1999. Chrysolina madrasea : A potential bio-control agent for Blumea lacera. Abstract VIII Biennial Conf. of Indian Society of Weed Sci., BHU, Varanasi, 5-7 Feb..-134. Oudhia, P. and B.S. Thakur 1996. New record of the leaf beetle on a weed. Current Res. 25:218. Oudhia, P. and R.S. Tripathi, 1997a. Germination and seedling vigor of soybean as affected by Allelopathy of lpomoea carnea Jacq. Legume Res. 20 (3/4): 227- 229. Oudhia, P. and R.S. Tripathi, 1997b. Allelopathic potential of Calotropis gigantea. R.Br. World Weeds. 4:109-119. Oudhia, P. and R.S. Tripathi, 1998a. The possibilities of utilization of medicinal weeds to increase the income of the farmers. Abstract. National Seminar on Medicinal Hant Resources development. Organized by Gujarat Government and AADAR, Gandhi Labour Institute. Ahmedabad. 4-5 Oct.: 3. Oudhia P. and R.S. Tripathi, 1998b. Allelopathic effects of Parthenium hysterophours L. on kodo, mustard and problematic weeds. Proc. First International Conf. On Parthenium Management (Vol. II), UAS, Dharwad, 6-8 Oct. 1997 136-139. Oudhia, P. and R.S. Tripathi, 1998c. Allelopathic potential of Ipomoea carnea Jacq. Agril. Biol Res. 14 (3&4) : 1-8. Oudhia, P. and R. S. Tripathi, 1999a. Scope of cultivation of important medicinal plants in Chhattisgarh plains. Proc. National Conf. On Health Care and Development of Herbal Medicines. IGAU, Raipur (India)29-30Aug. 1997:215-222. Oudhia, P. and R.S.Tripathi 1999b. Medicinal Weeds of Raipur and Durg (M.P.) region. Proc. Nat. Conf. on Health Care and Dev. of Herbal Medicine. IGAU, Raipur 29.30. August. Oudhia, P. and R.S. Tripathi, 1999c. Medicinal weeds: A boon for the farmers of Chhattisgarh.: Abstract. VIII Biennial Conference of Indian Society of Weed Science, BHU, Varanasi, 5-7 Feb.: 152. Oudhia, P. and R.S. Tripathi, 1999d. A useful weed Blumea lacera L.: A review. Indian J.WeedSci. 31 (1 & 2): 108-109. Oudhia, P., and R.S. Tripathi 1999e. Allelopathic effect of Lantana camara L. on Rice Agril. Sci. Digest 19(1) : 43-45. Oudhia P., and R.S. Tripathi, 2000a. Germination of mustard as affected by Allelopathy of Datura stramonium L. Weed News (In press) Oudhia, P., and R.S. Tripathi, 2000b. Allelopathic effect of Lantana camara L. on germination of Kodo (Paspalum scrobiculatum L.) Weed News (In press). Oudhia, P., and R.S. Tripathi, 2000c. Allelopathic effect of Lantana camara L. on germination and seedling vigor of mustard. Bhartiya Krishi Anusandhan Patrika (In press). Oudhia, P., and R.S.Tripathi, 2000d. Allelopathic effects of Lantana . camara on Wheat. Crop Res. (In press). Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1995. Allelopathic effect of Ageratum conyzoides on germination of linseed var. Kiran. Weed News: 2 (1 &2) 15-18. Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1996a. Allelopathic effect of Datura stramonium L. on Linseed. Agrl. Biol. Res. 12 (1 & 2): 12-17. Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi 1996b. Allelopathic effect of Ageratum conyzoides L. on paddy. Abstract. International Symposium on rainfed Rice for Sustainable Food Security, CRRI, Cuttack, 23-25 Sept. : 95. Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1997a. Allelopathic effect of White top (Parthenium hysterophorus L.) on Chickpea. Legume Res. 20 (2): 117-120. Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1997b. Allelopathic effect of Parthenium hysterophorus L. on germination of Linseed. Indian J. Plant Physiol. 2 (4) : 327-329. Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1997c. Allelopathic effect of Blumea lacera L. on wheat. Indian J. Weed Sci. 29 (1 & 2): 4-7. Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1997d. Allelopathic effect of Blumea lacera L. on chickpea and rabi weeds. Agril. Sci. Digest. 17 (14) : 275-278. Oudhia, P., B.S. Joshi and V.K.Kosta. 1998a. The possibilities of preparing Homoeopathic drugs from the obnoxious weeds of Chhattisgarh. Bhartiya Krishi Anusandhan Patrika. 13 (1 & 2) : 53-57. Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1998b. Allelopathic effect of Blumea lacera L. on Rice and common kharif weeds. Oryza. 35(2): 175-177. Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1998c. Germination and seedling vigor of mustard as affected by Allelopathy of Blumea lacera L. Agril. Sci. Digest. 18 (3) : 183-16. Oudhia, P.,S.S. Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1998d. Germination and seedling vigor of chickpea as affected by Allelopathy of Datura stramonium . L. Int. Chickpea and Pigeonpea News letter (ICRIST). 522-24. Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1998e. Negative (stimulatory) Allelopathy of Lantana camara L on linseed var. Kiran. : Abstract. International Symp. on Microbial Biotech for Sustainable Dev. and Productivity, R.D.U., Jabalpur 14-16 November: 64, Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1998f. Germination and seedling vigor of chickpea as affected by Allelopathy of Ageratum conyzoides L. Abstract. National Symposium on Management of Biotic and Abiotic Stresses in Pulse Crops, IIPR, Kanpur, 26-28 June : 40. Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1998g. Allelopathic effect of Calotropis gigantea R.Br. on Wheat: Abstract. Ill International Cong. on Allelopathy in Eco. Agr. and Forestry, UAS, Dharwad 18-21 Aug.: 151. Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1998h. Stimulatory Allelopathy of Calotropis gigantea R.Br. on germination and seedling vigor of Linseed. Abstract. First Inter. Agronomy Cong. on Agronomy, Environ, and Food Security for 21st Century, Vigyan Bhawan, N. Delhi 23-27 Nov. 227. Oudhia, P., R.S.Tripathi and P.Katiyar. 1999a. Weed management through Green Allelo- chemicals :an eco-friendly approach towards sustainable agriculture. Abstract. National Seminar on Chemistry of Environmental Pollution with Special Emphasis on Pesticides, Dept. of Chemistry, Govt. D.B Girls PG College, Raipur (India). 28-29 Jan. :22. Oudhia, P., N.Pandey and R.S. Tripathi. 1999b. Allelopathic effects of obnoxious weeds on germination and seedling vigor of hybrid Rice. International Rice Research Notes (IRRI). 24(2): 36. Oudhia, P., N.Pandey and R.S. Tripathi and R.N.Ganguli. 1999c. Reaction of hybrid Rice varieties to gall midge (Orseolia oryzae). Insect Environ. 4(4) : 134. Oudhia, P., N. Pandey and R.S. Tripathi and R.N.Ganguli. 1999d. Effect of nitrogen and water management practices on gall midge (Orseolia oryzae) infestation in hybrid Rice. Insect Environment. 4 (4): 199-120. Oudhia, P., N. Pandey and R.S. Tripathi and R.N.Ganguli. 1999e. Gall midge (Orseolia oryzae) infestation in hybrid Rice as affected by Agronomical practices. Insect. Environ. 4 (4) : 123-124. Oudhia, P., N.Pandey and R.S. Tripathi and R.N.Ganguli, 1998f. Response of different hybrid rice varieties to Brown Plant Hopper {Nilaparvata lugens (Stal.)} Insect Environ. 5(1):10-11. Oudhia, P., S.S.Kolhe and R.S. Tripathi. 1999g. Germination and seedling vigor of Rice var. Mahamaya as affected by Allelopathy of Datura stramonium. Crop. Res. 18 (1) : 46-49. Pandey, N., P., Oudhia, S.S. Kolhe and R.S.Tripathi. 1999. Identification of weed flora of paddy fields and bunds in Raipur (Chhattisgarh) region of India. VIII Biennial Conference of Indian Society of Weed Science, BHU, Varanasi, 5-7 Feb. p. 142. Vyas, S. and P, Oudhia, 1999., Parthenium hysterophorus L. : A potential threat to public health, crop productivity and bio-diversity . of Chhattisgarh. Abstract National Seminar on Geography ' with special Emphasis on Environment, Durga College, Raipur (India), 6-7 March : 3. (Source : Advances in Agricultural Research in India; Special Volume - II on Rice Research and management in India, Vol XIV, December, 2000 : 69-80) Traditional medicinal knowledge about common herbs, and soils used for the treatment of headache (with special emphasis on Migraine) in Chhattisgarh, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Migraine is also known as Sun headache or hemicrania in general. In Hindi it is known as Adhkapari or Adhasisi (Adha-half; Kapari or Sisi head). During my survey at Ajirma village of Sarguja district, I have noted a new name of Kuthua (Xanthium strumarium), as Adhasisi. The natives of this region are well aware of unique medicinal properties of Xanthium in case of hemicrania. It is a common practice in Chhattisgarh to name of herb on the basis of its healing properties for specific troubles. Dadmari is one of the promising examples. The meaning of Dadmari is Dad-ringworm; Mari to kill. In our state Dadmari holds a reputed position as sure cure for ringworm. The scientific name of Dadmari is Cassia tora. You can get more details from my article on Traditional medicinal knowledge about herbs used for the treatment of ringworm in Chhattisgarh, India. So, we are talking about the miracle healing properties of Xanthium in case of hemicrania. According to the Traditional Healer of Ajirma living at the base of Pilkha hills, the prickly involucre and roots are tied on ears and neck of patients particularly the chronic patients. Botanical differences between major Madhuca species. Characteristics Madhuca latifolia Madhuca longifolia 1) Habit A medium sized to large tree. A large, evergreen tree 2) Stem Usually with short, bole and large, rounded crown, 2.4-3.6 meters. Short, 3.6 meters, with a dense, spreading crown. 3) Bark Dark coloured or grey, cracked. Yellowish grey to dark brown-red and milky inside, scaly. 4) Leaf Clustered near the ends of branches, elliptic or elliptic oblong, coriaceous, pubescent when young, almost glabrous when mature. Clustered near the apex, linear lanceolate, tapering towards the base, glabrous when mature. 5) Flower Small, fleshy, cream coloured, sweetscented, in dense, fascicles near the ends of branches. Pale yellow, many small, with rusty, pubescent calyx and fleshy corolla, aromatic, in dense clusters near the ends of the branches. 6) Fruit Ovoid, up to 5 cm long, greenish, turning reddish yellow or orange when ripe, 1-4 Ovoid, 5 cm long, 1-2 seeded berry, yellow when ripe. seeded. 7) Seed Brown, ovoid, smooth, shining, 2.5-3.6 cm long. Compressed, yellow or light brown, shining, smooth. According to him, if the headache is right sided then the prickly involucre is tightened in left ear and vice-versa. When the pain is shifting in nature, then the patients are advised to wear the garland of prickly involucre in neck. Although the prickly involucre can cause a damage to skin but generally the Traditional Healers advise the patients to wear it 24 hours for quick and permanent relief. One more interesting thing I have observed, was the use of red and black threads to tie the prickly involucre. The patients suffering from both mental illness and hemicrania are advised to use red strips. I have also seen the use of yellow and green stripes. But Traditional Healer refused to disclose the importance of yellow and green stripes. According to my field worker, the yellow is recommended for virgins and green for widows. I was really surprised by the deep knowledge of colour therapy present among the Traditional healers of Sarguja. Later when I consulted, and disclosed my observations, to the Traditional Healers of Bastar, they said they are well aware of use of red and black stripes but not about the green and yellow stripes. They also showed ignorance towards other colours. I personally feel, that there is a strong need to search the science behind this. Use. Are really the green, and yellow coloured stripes having specific effect from treatment point of view or it is just symbols. I have consulted many scientific literatures with special reference to this colour therapy. The use of prickly involucre for hemicrania is found well documented in scientific literatures. Also in some books I have noted the use of red stripes for this purpose. But the references on other colours are not available. In Sarguja region, the Traditional Healers recommend to use of the freshly collected roots in similar manner of prickly involucre. The use of roots is preferred when the herb is at vegetative stage. According to them after starting of reproductive stage, the potential of roots decrease and at that time the prickly involucre became more effective. When I asked the Traditional Healers what will happen when we put both roots and prickly involucre as earrings. He replied he had yet not tried but this is a good idea and he assured me to use it in future. During my Ethnobotanical survey to Chhattisgarh plains. I have noted the inflorescence and roots of Chirchita (Achyranthes aspera) are also used for the same purpose. But the natives informed me that this herbs is less effective as compared to Xanthium and one can use it during the season when Xanthium is not present in wastelands. In reference literatures, I have noted that the Xanthium is not an indigenous to India. It is an exotic herb and in India it is considered as harmful weed. I am really surprised. Now I am focusing my research on when Xanthium was seen for the first time in Chhattisgarh and how the Traditional Healers have gained the knowledge about its unique medicinal properties. Also , I am in process of searching the Ethnobotanical literatures of that country from where it has originated. If the use of Xanthium is not well known to that country, then definitely the credit goes to the Traditional Healers of Chhattisgarh. It is a detailed research and I think it will require much time and patience. In my previous articles, I have mentioned that the Traditional Healers are in process of utilizing the obnoxious allergic weed Parthenium as medicinal herb. Like Xanthium, Parthenium is also an exotic weed. During my Ethnobotanical survey to Bagbahera region of Chhattisgarh, one of my field workers informed me that Du-Singhia (Du-two; Singhia- thorns) is also effective in hemicrania and many natives are well aware of this use. The Du-Singhia is Acanthospermum hispidum. It is again an exotic weed and found as wasteland weed in Bagbahera region. The use of the Acanthospermum against hemicrania is not documented in reference literatures. The native of Bagbahera, use white stripe to tie this herb as earring. They are not aware of the use of other colours (why only white) they have no answer). During my visit to Rajkot (Gujrat) for consultancy work , I have noted dense population of real Gokhru plants. According to my farmer Mr. B.N. Patel, this Gokhru is a common weed in both crop fields and wastelands. Gokhru holds a reputed position in all systems of medicine in India and is in high demand in national and international drug markets. The scientific name of Gokhru is Tribulus terrestris. Surprisingly, Mr. Patel was not aware of this highly demand herb. A research station of his town informed him that it is an obnoxious weed and can cause a great harm to his valuable crops. Mr. Patel have invested thousands of rupees in terms of agrochemicals and even his grand daughter has be come allergic to spray of agrochemicals. When I informed him about the potential uses of this so called harmful weed, as good entrepreneur he searched the market and now he is supplying and earning returns from this weed. He use labours to uproot the weed. The use of labour is generating an employment opportunity among unemployed youths. The uprooted plants are allowed to dry and then it is sold to nearby big cities. The sincere follower of "Art of living" group of India, Mr. Patel is now planning and thinking to cultivate this so called weed. The manager of his farm informed me that the prickly fruits of Tribulus are used for hemicrania both internally and externally. After coming back to Rajkot, I asked the Traditional Healers of Chhattisgarh why Xanthium is only used externally for hemicrania. They are not of opinion that the Xanthium is harmful if taken internally. In reference literatures, I have noted that in many parts of India, the whole plant is used for the treatment of many diseases. According to these literatures, the root is bitter tonic and useful in cancer and strumous disease. The prickly fruit is considered cooling and demulcent and is given is small pox. In this way we can say that the internal application of Xanthium is not harmful but I have not found even a single reference on the internal use of Xanthium for the treatment of hemicrania. During my survey, I have noted the number of patients suffering from hemicrania is less in rural areas as compared to semi-urban and urban areas. Unfortunately, the patients of urban area are not aware of the rich traditional medicinal knowledge about herbs used in hemicrania present with traditional healers. According to my pharmacist friends, there is a good demand of allopathic drugs used for migraine and other related problems in Chhattisgarh. You will be surprised to know that a herbal company of Raipur, the capital of Chhattisgarh, is now planning to commercialized the use of the prickly involucre of Xanthium. During my stay at Sarguja region about 6 months, I have seen the miracle healing properties of Xanthium for migraine. As part of our course work, we regularly visit to the nearby villages and use to observe the ways of treating the patients, the traditional healers were adopting. Today, I am recommending the use of prickly involucre to my family friends but the pricks are creating problem. I am sure in future the Agricultural scientists will try to develop a thornless variety of Xanthium having same medicinal potential for the sensitive and cautious urban patients. Last week when I was on campaign to aware the common people against the blind faith on ghosts and other similar creature, my friend Dr. Shailesh Jadhav, a lecturer at Science College, Raipur told me that the young newly emerged two-three leaves of Fudhar (Calotropis gigantea R. Br.) are effective and sure cure for any kind and degree of migraine. According to him, the old leaves are harmful and lethal if taken internally but at very young stage the leaves are used and given to patient suffering from chronic migraine with Jaggery (Gud). In available literature, I have not found such effects mentioned. According to him, he has gained this knowledge from some Traditional Healers. I feel there is a need for scientific evaluation of this findings. Calotropis is one of the most common roadside weeds and the natives and Traditional Healers of Chhattisgarh, both, are well aware of its unique medicinal properties. Like rice soils (please see my previous article), common soil is used externally to root out the problem of migraine. From the Traditional Healer of Dhamtari region. I have got promising method to stop the headache. He take soil, prepare a ball. The patient suffering from headache, is advised to put this ball in hot water and inhale the fumes till relief. This is very quick and effective method. The Traditional Healers prefer black (with high clay content soil, but according to him, every soil have this unique property to cure the headache, more or less. But the patients getting instant relief believe that the soil from healer’s hut is more effective as compared to other soils. In pelopathy or mud therapy, the aqueous paste of soil or mud is applied in affected part but the use of fumes of boiled water having raw soil is really interesting and surprising. Makoy is a common weed found in Chhattisgarh abundantly. I am not much aware of its medicinal properties. Also I have noted that not many Traditional Healers take interest in this herb. During my Ethnobotanical surveys in Rajnandgaon region , I have noted its use for chronic headache specially in case of hemicrania. The poultice of freshly collected Makoy leaves in combination of other herbs like Ber (Ziziphus jujuba), Kukronda (Blumea lacera), Wheat (Triticum aestivum) is applied externally. According to the native of the region, in absence or unavailability of other herbs, Makoy alone can be used effectively. According to hem the fumes of dried leaves of Makoy is also effective. The scientific name of Makoy is Solanum indicum (Family Solanaceae; the potato family). I have found this botanical description about this so-called weed in botany literatures. It is a much branched, under shrub, 0.3-1.5 meter high (in Chhattisgarh we have observed more variations in height), very prickly, Prickles large, sharp, recurved, stem stout, cover with stellate hairs; Leaves ovate, sub entire or triangular - ovate, lobed, sparsely prickly and hairy on both sides, base unequal sided; petiole prickly; Flowers in racemose extra axillary cymes; Corolla pale purple, clothed outside with purple hairs; Fruits berry, globose, dark yellow when ripe; seed minutely pitted. In different systems of medicine, Makoy holds a reputed position. As medicine, its root, leaves and fruits are most frequently used. According to Ayurveda, Makoy is heating, digestive, astringent to bowels, anthelmintic and removes foulness of the mouth; useful in cardiac troubles; also useful in leucoderma, fever, asthma, pain, bronchitis, vomiting etc. While writing this detailed article, I consulted my mother. She is from Jabalpur region (Madhya Pradesh State). According to her, in Jabalpur her grand mother always recommend sugar syrup( locally chashni) for the treatment of Migraine. Using the sugar syrup an Indian sweet dish named Jalebi is prepared. This Jalebi is recommended to the patient. Every morning empty stomach (before brushing) take 250 gms of this sweet dish up to fifteen days, you will get rid from this problematic disease. It is a common practice in her region. From my childhood. I am seeing many patients getting relief from this problem. My mother is regularly and sincerely recommending it to family friendly. Very recently I have suggested this to my computer operator. This sweet treatment is surprising. There is a need to search the science behind this treatment. Mahua is one of the important Non wood forest produces in Chhattisgarh. The oil prepared from Mahua flower is also a popular remedy for migraine. The oil is applied externally. I have observed the use of this oil against headache in almost every part of Chhattisgarh specially in Sarguja and Bastar region. The method of application of oil prepared from Mahua flower are entirely different in different parts of Chhattisgarh. In Bastar (Southern part of state) the oil is applied externally on affected part whereas in Sarguja (Northern part of state). The oil is applied inside the nose. It is general recommendation to put few drops (5-6 drops) of oil inside the patient’s nose can cure all types of headaches including migraine. In other parts of India, this oil is prepared in the same manner but in order to increase its efficacy the other herbs like mulethi, Sonth (dried ginger powder), and Baibirang (Embelia ribes) are added. The Traditional Healers of Chhattisgarh are aware of these herbs but according to them alone Mahua oil is enough to treat the problem. Mahua is a very important tree for the natives of Chhattisgarh. It is native to India and 5 species have been reported. The scientific name of Mahua is Madhuca latifolia syn. M. indica. Its English name is Butter tree. Every part of Mahua is very useful and possess miracle healing properties. I feel it is necessary to describe the botany of this useful tree here. According to reference literature, it is a medium sized to large tree; stem usually with short, bole and large, rounded crown; Bark dark coloured or grey cracked; Leaf clustered near the branches, elliptic or elliptic oblong; flower small, fleshy, cream coloured, sweet-scented, in dense fascicles near the ends of the branches; fruit ovoid, greenish, turning reddish yellow or orange when ripe; seed brown, ovoid, smooth,, and shining. You can get more Ethnobotanical uses of this useful herb in my future articles. There are hundreds of more herbs and useful formulas, effective against headaches. In my future articles I will try my best to give details. In most of the Ethnobotanical works done in past, the use of herb for particular ailment is mentioned but methods of use and precautions to be taken, are not mentioned in details. With present articles, I am trying to get the full details so that I t can be of great use for future generation when I will not be here to explain the methodology. I have decided to write more and more articles based on my ethnomedico surveys for the benefit of mankind. In this articles, I am trying to find the answers of many question. Fortunately The Traditional Healers of Chhattisgarh are with me and they are feeling free in disclosing their secrets for the benefit of whole world.

Allelopathic effects of selected leaf extracts on germination and seedling vigor of medicinal crop Kasturibhendi (Abelmoschus moschatus medic) Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Introduction Kasturi Bhendi ( also known as Ambrette, Muskdana, Latakasturi) is one of the important Medicinal crops of Chhattisgarh, the "Herbal State" ( Oudhia and Tripathi, 2002). In Chhattisgarh, it is known as kharif crop. The seeds of Kasturibhendi is Musk scented and are used as flavoring tonic, stimulant and carminative. These seeds yield an essential oil which is commercially known as Musk seed oil or Ambrette seed oil. Musk seed fragrance is free from faecal note sometimes observed in true musk (Tripathi et al 2002). The demand of Kasturibhendi is increasing very rapidly in national and international drug markets (Oudhia et al 2001). This increasing demand has motivated the Chhattisgarh farmers to cultivate this important medicinal crop in fairly large areas. A survey conducted by SOPAM among herb growers of Chhattisgarh to identify the problems in herbal farming revealed that farmers are facing problems because of poor germination of Kasturibhendi seeds (Oudhia 2001 a). in order to solve this problem using Allelopathy as a tool and to study the harmful and beneficial effects of common leaf extracts on germination and seedling vigor of medicinal crop Kasturibhendi , series of pot experiments were conducted. Material & Methods Fresh samples of leaves of selected plants ( viz. Ipomoea carnea, Psoralea corylifolia, Acorus calamus, Acacia arabica, Murrya koenigii, Mucuna pruriens, Calotropis gigantea, Jatropha curcas and Tridax procumbens) were collected at random at the vegetative stage. To prepare extracts, the crushed leaves were allowed to decay for 24 hrs in distilled water in the ratio of 1:10 w/v (plant material: water). The extracts were allowed to decay at room temperature (28+-2 C) following which the extraction was done using a sieve (2mm mesh). The bioassay experiment was done earthen pots filled with neutral clay loam soil. Kasturibhendi seeds were soaked in different extracts for 24 hrs. As a control, Kasturibhendi seeds were soaked in distilled water for the same duration. After soaking, 10 seeds of Kasturibhendi were sown in each pot. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with four replications; the experiment was repeated twice. Germination was recorded at 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15 and 25 days after sowing (DAS) and root and shoot lengths were noted at 25 DAS. Result and Discussion Different extracts produced significant allelopathic effects on germination and seedling vigor of Kasturibhendi. At 9, 11, 13, 15 and 25 DAS, Psoralea leaf extract resulted in maximum germination whereas Jatropha leaf extract at 9, 11, 13 and 15 DAS and control (water) at 15 and 25 DAS , lowered the germination to the minimum. At 15 and 25 DAS , Acorus leaf extract produced comparable germination with germination produced by Psoralea leaf extract. In case root elongation , maximum elongation was noted in case of Psoralea leaf extract whereas lowest elongation was noted in case of control (water). All other extracts resulted in higher elongation as compared to control ( water). In case of shoot elongation , Psoralea leaf extracts produced maximum elongation that was at par with elongation produced by Ipomoea, Acorus, Murrya, Mucuna and Tridax leaf extract. extracts produced higher elongation as compared to control( water). In these experiments, Psoralea leaf extract was identified as promising extract that can be used to promote the initial germination with high seedling vigor. Acorus leaf extract is also identified as potential extract. At present , the soaking of seeds in water prior to sowing is a common practice among herbs growers. As most of the selected extract produced higher germination and seedling vigor as compared to control, the most promising extracts can be used in place of water. Psoralea corylifolia, locally known as Bawchi or Bemchi is a common weed in Chhattisgarh (Oudhia , 2001 b) . the leaves of Acorus is also commonly available in region , as Acorus is one of the commonly grown medicinal crops in Chhattisgarh. The detailed studies on effects of these promising extracts on growth , yield and -pest of Kasturibhendi are in progress . the studies on identification of allelochemicals responsible for stimulatory allelopathic effects of these promising extracts are also in progress. Table 1 Allelopathic effects of selected leaf extracts on germination of Kasturibhendi Germination (%) 9DAS 11DAS 13DAS 15DAS 25DAS 1. Ipomoea leaf extract 16.6(+403.0) 40.0(+140.9) 40.0(+140.9) 40.0(+100.00) 40.0(+100.0) 2. Psoralea leaf extract 26.6(+706.0) 46.6(+180.7) 60.0(+561.4) 60.0(+200.0) 60.0(+200.0) 3. Acorus leaf extract 16.6(+403.0) 33.3(+100.6) 43.3(+160.8) 46.6(+133.0) 46.6(+133.0) Acacia leaf extract 6.6(+100.0) 26.6(+60.2) 30.0(+80.7) 30.0(+50.0) 30.0(+50.0) 5. Murrya leaf extract 10.0(+203.0) 23.3(+40.3) 30.0(+80.7) 33.3(+66.5) 33.3(+66.5) 6. Mucuna leaf extract 16.6(+403.0) 26.6(+60.2) 30.0(+80.7) 30.0(+50.0) 33.3(+66.5) 7. Calotropis leaf extract 6.6(+100.0) 23.3(+40.3) 36.6(+120.4) 40.0(+100.0) 40.0(+100.0) 8. Jatropha leaf extract 0.0(-100.0) 6.6(-60.2) 10.0(-39.7) 20.0(0.0) 26.6(+33.0) Tridax leaf extract 3.3(0.0) 23.3(+40.3) 30.0(+80.7) 40.0(+100.0) 40.0(+100.0) 10.Control (water) 3.3 16.6 16.6 20.0 20.0 LSD (0.05) 12.9 18.5 15.6 19.7 16.0 Note: Figures in parentheses indicate percentage stimulation (+) or inhibition over control (water) le 2 Allelopathic effects of selected leaf extracts on seedling vigor of Kasturibhendi Root length (cm/plant) Shoot length (cm/plant) 1. Ipomoea 4.0 (+100.0) 2.9 (+61.1) 2. Psoralea 6.4 (+220.0) 4.8 (+166.6) 3. Acorus 3.7 (+85.0) 2.6 (+44.4) 4. Acacia 3.1 (+55.0) 2.4 (+33.3) 5. Murrya 3.3 (+65.0) 2.8 (+55.5) 6. Mucuna 2.8 (+40.6) 2.7 (+50.0) 7. Calotropis 2.8 (+40.6) 2.5 (+38.8) 8. Jatropha 2.3 (+15.6) 1.9 (+5.5) 9. Tridax 2.9 (+45.0) 2.6 (+44.4) 10. Control (water) 2 1.8 LSD (0.05) NS 2.2 inhibition (-) over control (water) on (+) or figures in the parentheses indicate stimulation (+) or inhibition (-) over control (water) Table 3 Details of Plant used for study Scientific Name Common Name Family Habitat Remarks 1 . Ipomoea carnea Beshram Convolvulaceae Found as common weed in aquatic and damp places Many valuable medicinal uses have been reported. Specially useful in Leucoderma. 2. Jatropha curcas Ratanjot Euphorbiaceae Cultivated medicinal herb Well known medicinal herb 3. Acorus calamus Bach Araceae Cultivated medicinal plant. Flourishes well in rice ecosystem Known for it's medicinal properties in India & abroad 4. Blumea lacera Kukronda Leguminoseae A wasteland weed Used in cure of urinogenital disorders and troubles of respiratory systems 5. Psoralea corylifolia Babchi Leguminoseae A wasteland weed Valuable remedy for skin and blood disorders 6. Acacia arabica Babool Leguminoseae A timber tree Valuable remedy for skin and blood disorders 7. Calotropis gigantea Fudhar, Aak Asclepediaceae A common wasteland weed Almost every part of Calotropis possesses valuable medicinal properties 8. Murrya koenigii Mithi Neem Rutaceae Garden herb Leaves used for flavoring & chutneys 9. Mucuna pruriens Kevatch Leguminoseae Cultivated crop Seeds are source of L-DOPA used for Parkinson's disease 10.Tridax Bhengra Asteraceae Common weed Medicinal weed References 1. Oudhia P. (2001a) .Common rice weeds used for first aid by Chhattisgarh farmers. In souvenir cum abstracts. National research seminar on herbal conservation, cultivation, marketing and utilization with special emphasis on Chhattisgarh, 'The Herbal State' .(Editor: P.OUDHIA) Srishti Herbal Academy and Research Institute (SHARI) AND Chhattisgarh Minor Forest Produce (trading & dev.) Co- operative Federation Ltd. , Raipur (India) , 13-14 DECEMBER, 2001. P. 133 2. Oudhia P. (2001b) Improved cultivation practices for medicinal crops : Glimpses of research at farmer's fields in Chhattisgarh (India). In Souvenir cum abstracts. .(Editor: P.OUDHIA) National Research Seminar on Herbal Conservation, Cultivation, Marketing, and Utilization with special emphasis on Chhattisgarh , 'The Herbal State'. Srishti Herbal Academy and Research Institute (SHARI) AND Chhattisgarh Minor Forest Produce (trading & dev.) Co- operative Federation Ltd. , Raipur (India) , 13-14 DECEMBER,2001. P. 44 3. Oudhia P. and Tripathi R. S. (2002). Prospects of cultivation of medicinal plants in Chhattisgarh , India In : series recent progress in medicinal plants Vol. 5- Crop Improvement , Production Technology, Trade and Commerce, SCI TECH. Pub. USA pp. 211-236 4. Oudhia P. , Dubey O. P. , and Tiwari U. K. (2001). Present status and future prospects of cultivation and marketing of medicinal and aromatic crops: The Indian and International scenario. National Workshop on Conservation and Cultivation of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants , Centre for Forestry Research and Human Resources Development , Chhindwara (India) Dec. 26-27 , 2001 5. Tripathi R. S. , Tuteja S. S. and Oudhia P. (2001) Prospects of cultivation of medicinal plants in Chhattisgarh. In Souvenir cum abstracts. National Research Seminar on Herbal Conservation, Cultivation, Marketing, and Utilization with special emphasis on Chhattisgarh , .(Editor: P.OUDHIA) 'The Herbal State'. Srishti Herbal Academy and Research Institute (SHARI) AND Chhattisgarh Minor Forest Produce (trading & dev.) Co- operative Federation Ltd. , Raipur (India) , 13-14 DECEMBER, 2001. P. 34 Traditional Medicinal knowledge about herbs used for preparation of some useful herbal oils in Chhattisgarh , India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Ratti is one of the most common herb in Chhattisgarh. The beautiful but toxic seeds are used as weights by goldsmiths (Sunar) and as beads for necklaces. Each seed weighs about 1.75 grains. The natives and Traditional healers are well aware of its miracle medicinal properties. It is used both internally and externally as medicine in Chhattisgarh. Last year when I was on my Ethnobotanical survey in Bastar region of Chhattisgarh, I have found one unique use of Ratti. During my travel from Raipur to Jagdalpur in midway the engine of bus was failed. When the driver informed me that we can go by other bus or wait for two-three hours, I preferred second option. Our bus was failed near Keshkal valley, known for rich bio-diversity. Mr. Rajesh from Bhilai was with me as assistant. We decided to visit the nearby forest village in search of herbs, insects and mites and also to interact with the natives. Fortunately after crossing one small hill, we met a person collecting the wild herbs from forests. He welcomed us and when we informed him that we are at his forest in search of herbs, he became our friend. As usual, I opened my treasure of valuable and important knowledge about herbs firs and in response, he informed us about the special oil prepared with the help of Ratti seeds. As time was very limited, we decided to discuss on single species (i.e. Ratti). According to him, in the dense forests of Keshkal valley many varieties of Ratti seeds occur naturally. We were aware of three varieties at that time, categorized on the basis of the seed colour These were (1) Red seed with black eye. (2) Black seed with red eye (3) White seed but in his personal collection there were over ten more combinations. According to him, the herbal oil prepared from the Ratti seeds is very useful for sexually ill patients. In order to increase the sexual desire and stamina, he recommend his patients and friends to use this herbal oil. The herbal oil is prepared using Ratti seeds as main component. The other main components is Mucuna seeds. If I am not wrong his name was Sukhram. Sukhram told me that the red seeds with black eye are most potential as compared to other seeds. The matured seeds collected from plants are best as compared to the seeds collected after it has fallen on ground. As red seeds with black eye are not very common in his area, he make special efforts and travel long in search of this specific seeds. As second major component black seeded Mucuna is preferred but according to him brown coloured seeds of Mucuna having black spots are most potential but in his area these are rare. When I asked why the other seeds are not so potential, he said that his forefathers have told him about the specific seeds. After coming back from Keshkal when I consulted the reference literatures, in terms of chemical composition I have found no variation in the seeds having different colour. Possibly the human beings have yet not found the variations in terms of chemicals composition, but Sukhram having no advanced laboratory and analysis facility, is able to differentiate most powerful and powerless seeds, medically. When I talked to my Bio-Chemist friend about the different types of Ratti, he said chemically and medicinally there is no meaning of seed colour and Mr. Sukhram has no knowledge about the seeds. But I know and believe in the scientific findings of real scientists Mr. Sukhram. After collecting the potential Ratti and Mucuna seeds from wild, he dip it in cow’s milk for 24 hours, and after 24 hours he again dip these seeds in human semen for 24 hours. According to him, the semen of unmarried rural youth is used only. There is no other option. The youths having the habit of tobacco chewing are rejected. I was really surprised to know the traditional medicinal uses of human semen. I have never seen or read about this use. After 24 hours, the seeds are washed thoroughly and boiled with cow’s milk. After boiling the seeds are meshed and mix in Sesamum oil. The mustard oil can be used as substitute. This oil is put in bottles and the bottles are buried in the ground for four weeks. After four weeks, the oil is used externally on male genitals in order to increase the desire, stamina and duration. During my Ethnobotanical surveys, I have noted that the drugs or oils after preparation buried in ground for specific duration. I am trying to discover the science behind this. When I consulted the traditional healers about his special treatment, they said that the mother earth is having the capacity to remove the bad effects of drugs or oils. In other words, the soil reduces or eliminates the unwanted harmful heat from the drugs or oils. My many friends are associated with leading pharma companies of India. When I disclosed this methodology to them , they surprised and said that in drug factory they never adopt this methodology and according to them, this is the reason why the common Indian still believe in home preparation of drugs and oils or to purchase it from the traditional healers. The scientists from Research and Development division of these companies, never conduct detailed Ethnobotanical surveys in order to get the correct methodology. They prefer the formula given in reference books. The traditional healer of Raipur told me that all drugs or oils requires specific treatment. According to him, the traditional healers of Bastar have rich traditional knowledge about the specific sites used to burry the drugs or oils. The shade of common medicinal trees like Mahua, Neem or Sal is preferred in order to burry it. According to the traditional healers, these trees play vital role in making the drugs or oil more potential. Possibly, after knowing the complete and specific information we can explain these effects again with the help of Allelopathy. So, we were talking about the formula of Mr. Sukhram. After giving the details of his formula, Mr. Sukhram informed that as friend he can give some sample to us. We agreed. We visited to his village and met his patients using this unique formula. They were well satisfied and according to them continuous use of this oil up to one month can root out this problem forever. One of his patients informed that when the reaction (in form of blisters on skin) starts, it is the indication that the role of oil is over. After giving than to Mr. Sukhram when we returned to main road, the bus was not there. We looked at our watches. You will be surprised to know that we spent over 6 hours with Mr. Sukhram. After reaching Jagdalpur by another bus, when I consulted my traditional healer friend about the miracle medicinal properties of Ratti, he said that the oil of Ratti is well known in this region but it is used for skin diseases externally and he showed ignorance on its use as sexual stimulant. With his great help, we prepared herbal oil using seeds having different colours according to the formula of Mr. Sukhram. My friend tried these different oils in his patients and confirmed the findings of Mr. Sukhram that red seeds with black eye are best. My traditional healer friend was using the Ratti oil for the treatment of skin troubles. His method was very simple and alone Ratti seeds were sufficient to produce the desirable effects on skin problems. As experiment when he recommended this oil for application on male genitals, it has reacted very badly. We concluded that the special methodology used by Mr. Sukhram and use of other herbs, helps in eliminating the harmful effects of pure Ratti seeds. When I disclosed Mr. Sukhram’s formula to the traditional healer of Pendra, he said that in place o human semen, goat’s milk can be used successfully. I personally feel that the specific scientific evaluation is needed for this interesting and surprising finding. The scientific name of Ratti is Abrus precatorious L. (family Leguminoseae). In English it is known as Rosary Pea, Crab’s eye or Indian Liquorice. In standard reference literature I have found this detailed botanical description. It is perennial climbing shrub with slender glabrous and finely silky branches. Leaves pinnate, leaflets 10-20 pairs, linear or linear oblong, apiculate, glabrous or minutely silky beneath. Flowers in long dense pedunculate racemes, pinkish white, calyx campanulate, truncate, finely silky. Corolla pink or white, stamens 9 , monadelphous. Pods oblong with a sharp deflexed beak,. Seeds sub globose, shining scarlet with a black spot at hilum, some times white. Ratti holds a reputed position in all systems of medicine in India. According to Ayurveda, the seeds are acrid, aphrodisiac and tonic and useful in eye diseases, leucoderma, skin diseases etc. The roots and leaves possess same properties as seeds. Also these are useful in treatment of fevers, stomatitis, head complaints, asthma, thirst, tuberculous glands and caries of teeth. In different parts of India, Ratti is well known ethnomedicine.. In reference literatures, I have found description of oil named Ganjadya Tailam used for external application in skin diseases but the use of Ratti oil as sexual stimulant specifically the method described by Sukhram is not available in reference literatures. In my Allelopathy studies, I have found Ratti plant very useful against Rice pests. The extracts and leachates of whole plant were found less effective as compared to extracts and leachates prepared from its seeds. I have focused my work on pesticidal properties of this common herb. Pen or pen bija is one of the well known non wood forest produce having high demand in national and international drug markets. Every years several tons of Penbija is collected and sent to different metros from the Dhamtari market of Chhattisgarh. During my Ethnobotanical surveys in region of Chhattisgarh, I have got information on unique uses and medicinal properties of this useful herb. Some of these information are still not available in reference literatures. The English names of Pen or Penbija are Black-oil tree, Climbing staff plant or Intellect tree. In India, it is commonly known as Malkangini or Jyotishmati. Its scientific name is Celastrus paniculata Willd. The medicinal properties of Pen oil are well documented in available literatures. According to these literatures, the oil is stomachic, tonic and good for cough and asthma. It is used in leprosy, gout, rheumatism, headaches and leucoderma. Its use in the treatment of beri-beri is also reported. The natives and traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are well aware of these medicinal properties of Pen. The aphrodisiac properties of this oil is not mentioned in reference literatures. The traditional healers of Bastar, use the oil of Pen in combination with other native herbs as sexual stimulant. When I was studying in B.Sc. ulture) second year, there was a long strike by students against the reservation policies of government. During strike, I decided to visit Jagdalpur, the district place of Bastar region and to stay with forest guards in dense forests. My neighbor Dr. A.S. Dave helped me and with his help, the forest officers of Bastar gave me permission to live for two months in guest house of Machkot village. At that time, the Machkot range was not considered as safe place for stay because of presence of men killer tigress. I stayed at that guest house with the family of forest guard, belonging to Balaghat district. He was a caretaker of herbal nursery of Machkot and was well aware of the useful herbs of that region. At that time, there was no telephonic facilities to contact to my family. Daily my routine was to search the forests for new herbs, at noon after lunch, I invest my time for preparing herbarium file (instead of sleep) and at evening, with forest guard I use to visit nearby villages to interact with the traditional healers and natives. At night, I prefer to stay at guest house in order to avoid unwanted meetings with wild animals. This detailed and hard training at my student life developed an interest in me to know more and more about common herbs. The traditional healer of Machkot informed me about the use of Penbija oil as aphrodisiac. According to him, the method of preparation of oil is very simple but it is time taking. The ingredients are fresh buds of lason (garlic), the roots of Akarkara (i.e. Spilanthes acmella) and again the Mucuna seeds. The 60 percent part is the Penbija and remaining 40 percent is the equal proportion of above mentioned herbs are mixed and as base oil, the Alsi oil (Linseed oil) is used. After boiling these herbs in Alsi oil, the oil is kept for two months in the shade of Mahua tree ( why only Mahua tree ? because it is common in this region ? or any specific reason ? - he has no answer; According to him this method is developed by his forefathers). After two months, the oil is ut inside the earthen pot filled with Chuna (lime) and the pot is buried inside the soil for another two months. (Why this process in needed ? no answers). After two months oil is filtered and given to the patients having poor sexual desire. The oil is applied externally on male genitals before intercourse. According to him, one can use this oil life long without any side effect. My forest guard said that the traditional healers delay the procedure in order to show the patients and other villagers that it is not so simple and require special method. But I am not totally agree with him. I personally feel that there is a science behind his method and there is a strong need for scientific investigation. What will happen if we mix the oil prepared by this traditional healer and the oil prepared by Mr. Sukhram ? Either this combination will show synergistic effect or not ? I am sure the enthusiastic pharma students of India will motivate to conduct the study on this important aspect, after reading this article. reference literatures, I have found this botanical description about the Pen plant. It is an unarmed woody climber. Leaves simple, alternate very variable, elliptic, ovate, broadly obovate or sub-orbicular, glabrous, sometimes pubescent beneath along the venation, base cuneate, obtuse or rounded, apex acute, acuminate or obtuse; margins crenate or serrate. Panicles large, terminal, pubescent. Male flowers minute, pale green. Calyx lobes sub orbicular, toothed. Petals oblong or obovate oblong, entire. Disk capsular. Stamens long, anther ovoid, obtuse,. Female flowers having sepals , petals and disk similar to those of male flowers. Ovary globose, style short, columnar, stigmas 3. Capsule sub globose, bright yellow tri valved, 3-6 seeded. Seeds ellipsoid, yellowish brown, enclosed in a red fleshy aril. The Bastar region of Chhattisgarh is well known for limestone caves. In these caves very typical fauna have been reported. Dr. A. K. Pati from Chhattisgarh, has dedicated his life to work on the fauna of these caves. These caves are the home of many species of Bats. Kutumbsar cave is among these caves. It is most frequently visited caves by the tourists and researchers. The traditional healers of Bastar region, use of Bats from these caves to prepare a specific oil for the treatment of rheumatism and paralysis. I have noted a lot of variations in the ingredients and composition of oil. According to the majority of traditional healers, the Bat and dried ginger (sonth) are two main ingredient. One full size matured Bat is collected and a pinch of sonth is added, with the help of Sesamum oil as base oil, this useful oil is prepared. Why only the bats living in caves are used not the other bats? They have no specific answer. As not much work has been done on identification of Bat species of Chhattisgarh, I am unable to differentiate the Bats living in caves from the bats living in other places. In many parts of Bastar, the traditional healers use the Bat alone for the preparation of oil. This oil is applied in affected parts externally. According to them, there is an important role of whole body. The patients having poor vital force are not preferred for application of this oil . During talk with the Traditional Healer of Durg, I have noted that he is also using Bat based oil for joint pains. He is well known in his region for this specific effective oil. He informed me that Bat is not a major component for preparation of oil. This was new thing for me. He uses over 60 species of herbs in equal quantity with aqueous extract of Bat for the preparation of oil. I have noted not much difference in effectiveness of oils collected from Bastar and from this traditional healer. The oil from Bastar is relatively cheap. I personally feel that there is a need of scientific evaluation of both of these oils. The herbal oil prepared from the whole plant and roots of common wasteland weed Fudhar (Calotropis gigantea) is also very popular among the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh. The use of whole plant for preparation of herbal oil is not described in reference literature whereas use of roots is mentioned. This oil is used for joint pains. For preparation of this oil mustard oil is used as base oil. There is a long list of herbs used for preparation of herbal oils. You will find the details in my future articles. My Ethnobotanical surveys revealed that the natives and the traditional healers are having rich traditional knowledge but they are not getting encouragement. You will be surprised to know that the administration harass the traditional healers by saying them quacks. There are many legal loopholes also. Now after formation of Chhattisgarh state, the state government is taking initiatives (?) to protect the rights of these traditional healers. Many international agencies particularly the pharma companies are searching the dense forests of the state for rare herbs. The traditional healers are well aware that these companies can cause harm to them for unique knowledge but they are not showing interest in disclosing their research findings. This is good example of resistance. These activities have motivated me to write detailed articles and to document the rich traditional knowledge about herbs, insects, mites and other creatures used as medicine. I am lucky that I am getting positive responses from the world community. Thank you very much for reading this article patiently. Traditional medicinal knowledge about common herbs used to prepare herbal tooth brushes Datun (Daton) in Chhattisgarh, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Dataun can be simply defined as twigs or new soft branchlets of herbs used to clean the mouth. Although most parts of the Chhattisgarh are under the impact of multinational companies selling varieties of chemical and herbal toothpastes, but still there are places where the natives use Datuan to brush and clean the mouth. It is bitter fact that as the use of modern toothpaste and tooth powder is increasing the number of patients suffer from dental troubles is also increasing .In rural and forest areas of Chhattisgarh, it is hard for the natives to believe the fact that in urban area common people loose majority of their earnings in so called modern clinics. The fashion of root canal surgery (very costly for normal Indian) is increasing very dangerously in urban areas. You will be surprised to know the old generation having roots at villages and living in modern society is still using Dataun to clean the mouth before using the modern toothpaste and tooth powders. The natives and traditional healers of Chhattisgarh have rich traditional medicinal knowledge about common herbs used to prepare Dataun. Although the Datauns prepared from Neem and Babool are most popular but in Chhattisgarh over 55 species of herbs are used to prepare Dataun. According to the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh, the role of Dataun is not limited to just clean the mouth but it has deep effect on general health. There are specific herbs used to prepare Dataun for specific purposes, and on special occasions. Before explaining the details about different herbs and specific Dataun, I am describing how the Datauns are prepared and used. The twig or soft branchlets are cut and chewed from one side till it takes the shape of brush. During the process of chewing, there is complete exercise of jaws and the fresh juice of twig or branchlet spread all over the mouth. After the process of brush making, this brush is used to clean the teeth (just like plastic tooth brushes). After this, the twig is splitted vertically and each part is folded in U shape and then Chiri is prepared. This U shaped Chiri is used to clean the tongue. After Chiri, the whole process ends. In general, the natives perform this process twice a day, (First at morning and second at night before sleep; just like us). The twig or new soft branchlets used for this process is known as Datoun or Datun in Chhattisgarh. In urban areas, people fond of both Dataun and modern toothpastes, prefer to use the brush prepa by chewing the twigs in place of plastic toothbrushes and with the help of this herbal brush the toothpaste is used on teeth. The status of its popularity can be easily understood by example of my family. My father still uses only Dataun and he is having no dental troubles. I use fifty-fifty means partly Datuan and partly toothpaste, my teeth are facing some problems. And my nephew use only toothpaste, he says that there is no alternative to yummy sweet toothpaste. Next month we are preparing for his first dental surgery. Use of Dataun is popular and in use in all over India particularly in the rural areas. As mentioned earlier, Neem and Babool Dataun are most popular, you can get the fans of these Datauns in metros like Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata. In Chhattisgarh, the collection of twigs to sell it as Dataun is a source of income for rural people. Daily hundreds of natives particularly the rural youths collect the Dataun, cut it in uniform size and sell it to nearby cities at very good rates. As the Datauns are common and easily available in villages, there is no demand in village markets. Common and popular names of Parsa (Butea monosperma) around the world. Languages/Regions/Countries Names 1) Assam Polah, Polak 2) Bengal Kinaka, Palas, Polashi 3) Myanmar Banban, Pauk, Pauk-pin, Pouk 4) Kanarese Brahmavriksha, Muttaga, Muttala, Muttuga 5) English Bastard Teak, Flame of the Forest 6) French Butee touffue 7) Hindi Chalcho, Chichra, Tesu, Dhak, Palas 8) Gujarati Kakria, Khakara, Khakda, Pallaso 9) Malyalam Khimshukham, Muriki, Palasi, Shamata 10) Marathi Kakrocha, Palas, Paras, Pholas, Phulas 11) Persian Daraspalah, Palah 12) Sanskrit Bijasheha, Bramhapadapa, Bramhavriksha, Lakshataru, Kinshuka, Palasha, Parna, Yajnika 13) Sinhalese Kaliya, Kalu keale, Gaskeala 14) Tamil Kali, Kattumurukku, Kinjugam, Palasu, Porasu, Punamurukku, Punamurungai, Pungu, Sira, Tikkuru, Vallai. 15) Telugu Kimsukamu, Muduga, Moduga, Modugu, Palasamu, Togarumoduga, Tella moduga 16) Urdu Palashpapra 17) Uriya Kinjuko, Polas, Polaso, Porasy. Today the whole world is aware of the unique medicinal properties of Neem (Azadirachta indica). In ancient literatures related to herbs, it is clearly mentioned that the Dataun prepared from Neem is best. To clean the mouth with the help of Neem Dataun is not a child’s play. The bitter taste of Dataun is tolerable to very few people. But once it became habit, no other Dataun can satisfy the user. In rural areas, natives still use the crop fields, wastelands, canal areas for morning call. The use of concrete latrines is still not popular in rural and forest areas of Chhattisgarh. Daily, the day of normal native start at 5.00 am. After leaving the bed he take lota ( a small water jug) and start to search place for morning call. Normall these areas are outside the village. He cut fresh Dataun and reach to ‘safe’ place chewing this Dataun. According to the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh, the use of Dataun during morning walk stimulates the bowel and routine user of Dataun never faces the problem of constipation or stomach disorders. The Neem Dataun is specially recommended to the patients suffering from dental problems. Due to its germicidal natural chemical Neem Dataun make the teeth and gum healthy. Many traditional healers suggest their patients to swallow the juice of Dataun during mouth cleaning. According to them this juice is very beneficial for body but some traditional healers are against this. According to them as the juice is mixed with the harmful germs, it is not advisable to swallow it. They recommend frequent spitting. The use of Neem Dataun is well documented. Although the use of Neem Dataun is decreasing in India, but the number and popularity of neem based herbal products for dental care are increasing very rapidly. Botanical differences between major Butea species. Characteristics Butea Butea monosperma superba 1) Branches and Very irregularly bent in various directions. Young shoots downy. Stem twining, as thick or thicker than a man's leg, woods very long, running over large trees. 2) Bark Bluish-grey or light brown Ash coloured, pretty smooth. 3) Leaves Long-petiolated, 3-foliolate; leaflets coriaceous broadly obovate from a cuneate or deltoid base, glabrescent above, with densely fine silk below. Alternate, terminal, remote, very large; leaflets downy, in other respects as is B. monosperma, but much larger. 4) Flower Buds velvety blackish, flowers bright orange-red, sometimes yellow in 15 cm long racemes on bare branches. Much larger and more numerous; calyx with the divisions longer and much more pointed. It is a bitter fact that the whole world is now recognizing and accepting the miracle medicinal properties of Neem, but in India the number of Neem trees is decreasing . In rural areas no one want to plant or care the old plants of Neem. The farmers are taking more interest in exotic trees like Eucalyptus, Acacia mangium, Poplar etc. According to them, these new exotic trees will give more returns but unfortunately they are not aware of the long term damage on fragile eco system by these exotic trees. About a decade back, in Chhattisgarh, many rich farmers planted Eucalyptus trees in thousand of acres, now they are feeling and observing that the water level at their farms have gone down and they are facing the water crisis. In early days, every village of Chhattisgarh fulfill its demand of Neem oil from its own fields. Now most of the villages are dependent on nearby cities for their requirement for oil. In villages, natives use neem oil as hair oil to make hair lice free and also apply the oil on body in order to save the body from infectious diseases and harmful creatures like insects, common during rainy season. This is the reason we always avoid to take village meeting during rainy season. It is very hard to deliver a lecture smelling very odd smell of neem oil coming from the audience. You can better understand if you have ever smelled this oil. The innovative educated farmers living near big cities and having well contact with modern communication systems are now planning to go for commercial plantation of Neem. As the population of Neem tree is decreasing and the taste Neem Dataun is not agreeable to every one, the use of Babool Dataun is increasing. In rural areas of Chhattisgarh, you will found Babool tree in good number. There is deep relationship between rural economy and Babool tree. From centuries, Babool is one of the best friends of farmers. As you know Chhattisgarh is a "Rice Bowl of India" Paddy is one of the main crops. The Babool tree is an integrated part of rice fields. The bunds prepared to retain the water in rice fields are favorite home of Babool tree. Although modern agriculture scientists are trying to convince the Chhattisgarh farmers that Babool is a very bad tree, one should root out this useful tree and even they are saying that it is harmful to the rice crop, but the time and nature have taught the Chhattisgarh farmers that there is no alternative to Babool for them. The wood of Babool is in use for constructing their homes and also their agricultural implements. The gum (gum Arabic) provides an additional income. Botanical differences between Neem (Azadirachta indica) and Mahaneem (Melia azedarach) Characteristics Azadirachta Melia indica azedarach 1) Habit A large, evergreen tree, 12-18 m A moderate sized, deciduous tree, 9-12 m. 2) Stem Straight and long, bole 6 meters, with a large crown. Cylindrical, with a spreading crown, 3.5 meters. 3) Bark Grey or dark grey or nearly black, rough, reddish-brown inside with numerous, oblique furrows and scattered tubercles. Grey, rough, with shallow, longitudinal furrows. 4) Leaf Impasipinnate, alternate, 20-38 cm long; leaflets 8-19, alternate or opposite, oblique or sub-falcate-lanceolate, rarely ovate-lanceolate, glossy, bluntly serrate. Bi or occasionally tripinnate; leaflets ovate or lanceolate. 5) Flower White or pale yellow, generally small, honey-scented, numerous, in slender, lax, axillary, panicles. Lilac, fragrant, in axillary panicles. 6) Fruit Green, turning yellow on ripening, aromatic oblong, smooth, drupe, 1.3-1.8 cm long Ellipsoid-globose, smooth first becoming wrinkled, green when raw, yellowish when ripe, in clusters. 7) Seed 3300-6300/kg 750-1400/kg The Babool tree give valuable Dataun for their own use and also money, after selling Dataun in city markets. They know that its leaves are very nutritious and good manure for their crops. They question the scientists favoring the plantation of so-called more profitable trees that whether these new trees can provide gifts like Babool and if your answer is no, then please do not force us to jump in well. This is very ridiculous that cientists are recommending the Poplar in rice bunds. They are saying that its wood or pulp is useful for match stick making. There is not a single match factory in Chhattisgarh so who will purchase it in future ? They have no answer. Seeing all these now I am thinking that our education is causing great harm to our own society. Instead of learning from real scientists i.e. the farmers, we are trying to show our so-called intelligence to them. Babool is very fast growing and drought tolerating tree. You will be surprised to know that the rice farmers practically take zero care of these trees but these trees are surviving and maintaining its friendship with the Chhattisgarh farmers from centuries. In villages near to forests, you will find less Babool and more Parsa. In these areas, the Dataun of Parsa is very popular. Both Babool and Parsa Dataun are used for cleaning the mouth. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are not much aware of its other medicinal potential as used as Dataun, other than its use in dental care. Babool and Parsa both holds a reputed position in Indian systems of medicine. The scientific name of Babool is Acacia nilotica and Parsa is Butea monosperma According to Ayurveda, Babool bark is hot, astringent to bowels, alexipharmic, anthelmintic and cures cough, bronchitis, dysentery, diarrhoea, piles, burning sensation, biliousness, leucoderma, urinary discharges etc. The Babool leaves are used to care eye diseases and to heal fractures whereas pod is cooling. Its gum is antipyretic, anti dysenteric and stops bleeding. According to Ayurveda, the stem bark of Parsa is astringent, biter, anthelmintic, and useful in tumors, bleeding piles and ulcers. The gum is used to cure diarrhoea, dysentery, respiratory troubles and bleeding. The root cures night blindness and other related troubles, and useful in elephantiasis. The flowers are used to treat leprosy, rheumatism , gout, skin troubles, thirst and burning sensations whereas fruits and seeds are considered as hot, dry, digestible and anthelmintic. During my ethnomedico surveys to different parts of Chhattisgarh, I always try to find out the fact that how the natives have got the knowledge about the use of particular herbs. In most of the cases, they reply that they have gained the knowledge from their forefathers, but many times, I feel proud to meet the person who have developed or discovered the use and playing vital role in enriching the traditional knowledge. As the scientists are encouraging exotic flora in Chhattisgarh, the introduction of these plants are causing great damage to the ecosystem. Many exotic plants have became troublesome weed and farmers are investing a lot of money to keep away these plants from their crop fields. The introduction of Ipomoea carnea, Lantana camara, Eichhornia crassipes and Parthenium hysterophorus are some promising examples. In initial period of introduction, these weeds have caused great harm to the natives of Chhattisgarh but as the time passed, the natives have discovered and developed many medicinal and industrial uses of these unwanted plants. When I published reports of my ethnomedico surveys giving the details regarding the medicinal knowledge about these plants in front of world community, they appreciated the approach and creativity of the natives. ntana was new to the natives and considered as the toxic herb, but you will be surprised to know that the natives of Lantana rich areas of Chhattisgarh are using the twigs of Lantana as Dataun. Its use as Dataun is not reported even in country from where it has originated. Last month when I was on my visit to herb grower Mr. Deen Dayal Verma’s farm the stream near to his village was flooded. We stayed their till the water level had gone down. During discussion with the villagers, crossing that flooded stream, I got surprising information. The Tilda region is covered with lateritic soil. The villagers informed that the wastelands are under dense cover of Lantana. When I started talk on Dataun, they informed about the use of Lantana twigs as Dataun. According to them it is just like Neem and Babool Dataun and there is no harmful effect. Many of them informed that the Lantana Dataun is very effective against aphthae. As they do not swallow the juice of Dataun, they failed to inform me about effects after reaching in stomach. According to them, after using Lantana Datun you will never forget its refreshing effect. For Neem and Babool Dataun you have to go for brushing twice in a day but according to them Lantana Dataun is very effective as its use only for one time is sufficient. All these are really surprising informations and there informations encouraged me to document this valuable traditional knowledge well in time. I have not observed the use of Lantana (locally known as Gotiphool) Dataun, in any other part of Chhattisgarh. In reference botany literatures. I have found this detail. It is a low, erect or sub scandent, vigrous shrub with stout recurved prickles and a strong odour of black currents. Root system very strong. Leaves ovate or ovate oblong, acute or subacute, crenate - serrate, scabrid or both sides. Flowers small, usually orange, sometimes varying from white to red in various shades and having a yellow throat, in axillary heads, almost throughout the year (in Chhattisgarh conditions). Fruits small, greenish-blue black, blackish, drupaceous, shining with two nutlets. Lantana was introduced in India for its beautiful flowers but now it is known as harmful weed. Its rapid spread in dense forests particularly in Teak forests are becoming headache for esters and experts. I personally feel that there is a strong need for scientific evaluation of properties of Lantana in dental care and treatment of apthae. The persons suffering from gum troubles are advised by traditional healers to use the Dataun of Koha or Kahua. Like Babool, Koha is also a most common tree in rice fields, particularly in Chhattisgarh plain. Its common Hindi name is Arjun and popular heart tonic Arjunarisht is prepared by this tree. Like Babool, Koha also plays vital role in rural economy. Its useful bark is in very demand both in national and international drug markets. This demand is now creating a problem on its survival and due to unscientific exploitation of bark the Koha trees are dyeing. The traditional medicinal knowledge about Koha Dataun for the treatment of gum troubles is also not documented. For indigenous herb experts and healers Koha is an important and valuable herb. According to Ayurveda, it is alexiteric, styptic, tonic, anthelmintic and useful in fractures, biliousness, heart and blood diseases, intoxication anaemia, excessive perspiration, asthma, tumors, leucoderma and urinary discharges. Chhattisgarh is well known for its dense Sal forest. In Sal forest area, the natives use Sal Dataun for mouth cleaning. In drier areas of Chhattisgarh, the natives use the Chind Dataun for same purpose. The natives are well aware from past experiences that any twig can not be used as Dataun. According to them, many twigs are toxic and can cause death. All non-toxic twigs are also not useful as Dataun. The twigs having the capacity to change in to ideal brush after continuous chewing is considered as best. My ethnomedico surveys revealed that there is a tremendous scope in this field. The beneficial uses of common guava bark and leaves for dental care are well known. In Chhattisgarh the natives use the Dataun of guava for dental care. According to the traditional healer of Bastar, it is equally effective as Neem Dataun. The Neem Datuan affects the whole body whereas the effect of guaava Dataun is limited to mouth only. According to him, the indigenous guava trees are best for this purpose. The high yielding improved varieties posses less medicinal properties. I think there is a need of scientific evaluation for these properties. In Chhattisgarh there are specific Datauns used only on particular day by particular gender. In Khamarchhat (Halshasthi) festival, women use the specific Dataun of Khamhar and Chirchita. On other days, there is no restriction of using these Datauns but natives use it only on the festival day. Why only women, why not men ? why only on festival day? I am trying hard to get these specific answers. According to many traditional healers, on this particular day some specific medicinal properties develop in these herbs and this finding is a result of extensive research of forefathers. They say that in order to continue this use on this particular day it is associated with festival by our forefathers. Whether the Khamhar and Chirchita Dataun increases the resistance in woman body against diseases or act as tonic? There is need of scientific evaluation. The scientific name of Khamhar is Gmelina arborea whereas Chirchita is Achyranthes aspera. Khamhar is not unknown to the natives of Chhattisgarh. In Chhattisgarh , you can still found the villages names based on dense population of Khamhar viz. Khamharin, Khamhardih etc. Chirchita is common roadside and wasteland weed in Chhattisgarh. You will get more details about these herb in my future articles. On Hareli festival day, the natives use the Dataun of Sarphonk. Like Khamhar and Chirchita Dataun it is used preferably on festival day. According to the traditional healer of Chhattisgarh Sarphonk is the herb mentioned as Vajradanti in reference literatures. Vajradanti is well known for making the teeth and gum disease free. But there is confusion. In many literatures, Onosma is described as Vajradanti. The scientific name of Sarphonk is Tephrosia purpurea. In general the traditional healers advise to swallow the juice of Sarphonk Dataun during chewing. According to them it is a good tonic and also improves body resistance against common diseases. The reference botany literature, I have noted this description. It is perennial herb, with rounded glabrous or slightly hairy branches. Leaves imparipinnate, leaflet 9-21, elliptic oblong, obtuse or truncate, mucronate, glabrous above , silky beneath; stipules deltoid, hairy. Flowers in leaf opposed 10-13 cm long racemes. Calyx pubescent, teeth acuminate, Corolla pink red or purple, pubescent outside, Pods pubescent, nearly straight, 6-9 seeded. It is important to mention here that in many parts and cases, the plant roots are also used as Dataun. The root and twig both are used as Dataun in case of Sarphonk. As you know, Mahua is one of the most popular and on demand non timber forest produces in Chhattisgarh. Mahua is associate with natives from centuries and the different plant parts and products like Mahua liquor are frequently used by natives and traditional healers. According to the nal healers, Mahua Dataun also possess unique medicinal properties. Like Mahua (Madhuca latifolia), Bhagrenda Dataun is also popular in Chhattisgarh. In modern scientific literature, I read the antibacterial properties of the Bhagrenda Dataun. I am proud to write that the natives of Chhattisgarh are still using this Dataun. Bhagrenda is found as wasteland weed in Chhattisgarh. In many parts of the state, farmers are using this shrub for fencing purposes. You will be surprised to know that the improved Bhagrenda varieties are under cultivation in Chhattisgarh as medicinal crop in fairly large areas. The scientific name of Bhagrenda is Jatropha curcas. In English, it in known as Physic nut or Purging nut. This Euphorbiaceae herb is frequently used herb in Chhattisgarh. According to Ayurveda, it is useful in treatment of Urinary discharges, abdominal complaints, fistula, heart diseases, biliousness and anaemia. You will get more details about traditional medicinal knowledge of this herb in my future articles. dhar, Maulshri etc. are among other Datauns. My detailed ethnomedico surveys are in progress and I am sure very soon, I will be able to provide more information on this important aspect. In reference literatures, I have found a herb locally known as Ram Dataun. Its scientific name is Smilax. In these literatures, its use as Dataun is not mentioned. I am sure that there is a scientific reason behind this name. The traditional healers covered in my latest survey told that this herb is good remedy for venereal diseases but they are not aware of its use as Dataun. The different Datauns are providing extra income to rural youths but I personally feel that there is a need to develop organized market. As the use of Datauns is still popular in metros and becoming popular in other parts of the world, the organized markets can provide more benefits to these youths. The documentation of traditional medicinal knowledge about these Dataun will be of great use in this process of marketing. The mother nature has selected me to document this useful knowledge, I will try my best to complete this assignment sincerely.