Pankaj Oudhia's Research Documents on Biodiversity and Traditional Healing. Part-18

Original Link http://www.pankajoudhia.com/RA1.pdf

 Information on common uses of herbs : Interaction with the eminent herb researchers of India. Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved As you know, last week we have successfully organized one day National workshop on Indian Medicinal and Aromatic Plants with special emph on Safed Musli, the millennium crop at Raipur. On next day, we organized field trip to herbal farms for the interested participants. During this field trip, many herb researchers were with us. During 240 kms. long journey we interacted a lot and shared many valuable information on medicinal uses of herbs. In present articles, I am giving details of some of these information. Common names of Zea mays around the world. Languages/Regions/Countries Names Afganistan Jaori, Jaoari Africa Mielie Annam Bap ngo, Lua ngo Arabic Durahkisan, Durahshani Bengal Bhutta, Janar, Kokka Brazil Zaburro Myanmar Pyaungbu Cambodia Paut, Put Canarese Goinjol, Makkai jola, Musukujola Srilanka Cholum Chinese Pang Tzeu, Yu Shu Shu Dutch Mais Egypt Durra English Indian corn, Maize French Ble'de Barbarie, Mais, Maize Gold Coast Agbahdor Gujarati Makkari Hindi Bhutta, Bhotta, Barajuav, Makka, Makai Iraq Indhrah safra, Idhrat-ash-sham Italian Grani siciliano, Grano turco Kurdish Gumnah shami, zurat zard Madagascar Katsabazaha Malayalam Cholam, Makka Cholum Marathi Bonda, Maka Persian Bajri, Gaudumemakkah Philippines Borona, Maiz Portuguese Milho, Millho Russian Kukuruva, Yavanala Sanskrit Kandaja, Mahakaya, Makaya, Shikhalu, Yavanala Sinhalese Bada iringu, Tringu Spanish Maiz, Trigo de las Indias Tamil Makkasholam, Turaka cholam Telugu Mokkkajanna, Mokka jonnalu Turkish Misir, Saridari Urdu Makai Uriya Buta, Maka, Mokha Yemen Rumj For the treatment of Pathri (Renal calculi), I got valuable information on use of Bhutte Ka Bal. Botanically, it is described as the female spikelets in Maize (Corn) inflorescence have single flower, sessile, and densely packed in several vertical series on the thick and cylindrical rachis. The style is a very long silky filament the cluster of which is known as silk. 'Bhutte Ka Bal' is this silk. According to herb researchers, the decoction of silk possess unique medicinal properties to flush out the renal calculi. Maize is not a native to Chhattisgarh but it is under cultivation in fairly large areas. This information can be the boon for the natives having the problem of renal calculi. In previous articles, I have mentioned the traditional medicinal uses of Aerva lanata. The researchers informed that this herb is also a boon for the Pathri patients. The herb before flowering is collected and decoction is prepared. The regular use of this decoction under the supervision of the experts, can flush out the stones. Aerva is also a common wasteland weed in Chhattisgarh. Sadasuhagan (Catharanthus roseus) is a common ornamental plant in India. It is also well known for its unique medicinal properties to cure blood cancer. The researchers informed that the presence of this herb as guard crop around the Safed Musli (Chlorophytum borivilianum) crop protects the Musli crop from common diseases and insects. As there is a fair demand of Sadasuhagan in national and international drug markets, the farmers can earn extra from this guard crop. In my previous articles, I have mentioned about the experiments of Chhattisgarh farmers using Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata) and Genda (Marigold). To protect the roots of Kalihari (Gloriosa superba) from root rot, the researchers suggested one must plant this herb near the Gotiphool (Lantana camara) herb. According to them, the presence of Lantana prevents the attack of fungal species and also insects on Gloriosa herb. Lantana is not native to India. It is one of the problematic weeds. The new use of Lantana in herbal farming, will help it to establish as useful herb in India. The researchers informed that although Safed Musli is more popular than Kali Musli (Curculigo sp.) among the farmers but in Ayurveda, there are more formulations based on Kali Musli. Dr. Maya Ram Uniyal, an eminent Ayurveda expert, informed that there is a good demand of Kali Musli in national and international markets. As it is commonly available in Indian forests, no one is ready to cultivate it but according to him it is one of the potential crops for the future. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are aware of medicinal importance of Kali Musli. I personally feel that there is a strong need to develop the detailed package of practices for organic cultivation of Kali Musli, well in advance, considering its importance as the crop of future. While ascending on Keshkal valley, we saw many Tendu and Dhanbaher trees. I informed the researchers about the benefits of leaf manure prepared from Tendu leaves in commercial cultivation of wonder crop Safed Musli (Chlorophytum borivilianum). Many innovative Musli growers of Chhattisgarh, are using this manure from several years. Through my Allelopathy experiments, I have found that the aqueous extracts of Tendu leaves promotes the growth of Safed Musli and in this way, it can be utilized for commercial cultivation of this herb. This is the discovery of Chhattisgarh farmers. Through my studies, I have just tried to establish the science behind this. In nature, Tendu (Diospyros melanoxylon) and Safed Musli grows together. I have heard from the traditional healers specialised in use of Safed Musli, many times, that Musli collected the specific tree species, possess more medicinal properties. Tendu is among these tree species. In response to this information, the researchers informed that the pod pulp of Dhanbaher (Cassia fistula) is a valuable remedy for stomach related diseases. We have also seen many Arjun (Terminalia arjuna) trees. Dr. Uniyal informed that due to lack of awareness, many natives are using the outer portion of Arjun tree bark as heart tonic. In fact, the interior red portion is useful. The above mentioned information are unique and valuable. I will inform the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh about these uses during my upcoming visits. Sometimes I feel that the mother nature has assigned me a role of honey bee to disseminate the pollens (i.e. knowledge) from one flower to another. I am satisfied with this role and trying hard to perform it as best as I can. Thank you very much for reading the article. Gulbakawali (Hedychium coronarium, family Zingiberaceae) as medicinal herb in Chhattisgarh, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved The Amarkantak region of Chhattisgarh is religious and tourist place. At the hills, many Hindu temples and Ashrams are situated. Amarkantak hills are covered with dense forests. The great river Narmada originated from this part of Chhattisgarh. For the herb lovers, the hills and forests are the treasures having valuable herbs and medicinal insects. Every year thousands of natives travel Amarkantak hills. They never forget to purchase the small bottles having Gulbakawali Ark (extract). The Gulbakawali Ark of Amarkantak is world famous. The traditional healers and natives of this region are well aware of its medicinal uses. This Gulbakawali Ark is used as eye-tonic. The natives and visitors use this Ark round the year internally to make the eyes free from all infections and to treat common troubles. From local markets to big stores, everywhere Gulbakawali Ark is available in different rates. The natural occurrence of this herb in any other part of Chhattisgarh is not reported. I have also not observed it during my Ethnobotanical surveys in different parts of Chhattisgarh. Surprisingly, in reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India, I have not got much information about this herb. From recent issue of Natural Product Radiance (March-April 2003), I got information that the rhizome of Gulbakawali is used in Chinese natural medicine and has been prescribed and used in treatment of headache, lancinating pain, contusion, inflammatory and intense pain due to rheumatism etc. It is also used as febrifuge, tonic, excitant and anti-rheumatic in the Ayurvedic system. I have visited Amarkantak hills many times both as tourist and for surveys. During surveys, I got opportunities to meet the traditional healers of this important region. They informed me that the Gulbakawali herb is limited to very moist areas only. They named the place Mai Ka Bagicha specifically where it is found in abundance. The healers informed that although this herb is present since generations in Amarkantak hills, but it is introduced species. The saints brought this herb from Himalayas. During my Ethnobotanical surveys, I have seen different species of Gulbakawali in Amarkantak region i.e. Hedychium coronarium, Hedychium coronarium var flavum and Hedychium spicatum, H. coronarium is known as Ginger Lily whereas remaining two species are known as Yellow Ginger Lily and Spiked Ginger Lily. I have found Hedychium coronarium var. flavum in abundance and commercially exploited. The reference literatures describe that rhizome yields essential oil of therapeutic and industrial importance but the natives and traditional healers use yellow fragrant flowers to prepare eye tonic. H. coronarium and H. coronarium var. flavum are known as Gulbakawali in this region whereas H. spicatum is known as Kapur-Kachri. Gulbakawali and Kapur-Kachri both are not the regional or local names. These are Hindi names popular in Himalayan regions. This information indicated that the healers are true and Hedychium species are not native to Chhattisgarh. It is common observation that from the places of tourists importance, any thing gets popularity within no time. Through tourists the Gulbakawali Ark reached to western countries and the local herb traders informed me that many natives are supplying the Ark regularly around the world. The healers have no doubt about its effectiveness. It prevents Motiabind (Cataract). The flowers are collected and through indigenous method of steam distillation Ark (extract) is collected. The healers suggest the users to use one or two drops twice a day round the year. You will be surprised to know that many leading eye hospitals of India are using this Ark successfully. The natives of this region informed me that due to increasing demand, its rates have increased many folds within five years. This demand is putting pressure on natural population of Gulbakawali in this region. Many extractors and traders have started commercial cultivation of this herb. But cultivation is beneficial only in Amarkantak region. When the innovative herb growers of Chhattisgarh Plains tried this herb in their fields, possibly due to climatic variations, the herb failed to produce flowers. Like other valuable herbs, the scientific research and package of practices for its commercial cultivation are not available for Chhattisgarh. The educated farmers are adopting the standard cultivation practices of Hedychium spicatum. Last year when one of my farmers, purchased Gulbakawali herb for commercial cultivation from Amarkantak regions, we got adulteration of Keu-Kand (Costus specious) herb in Gulbakawali. Actually, both herbs grow side by side in natural conditions. The healers of Amarkantak region believes that both herbs affect the medicinal properties of each other. The medicinal properties of Keu increases in presence of Gulbakawali and vice-versa. Through my Allelopathy experiments, I am trying to establish the science behind this belief. When healers visit the forests for the collection of herbs, they prefer these herbs, growing side by side. As both herbs are of economic importance, now we are planning to try Gulbakawali-Keu (Hedychium-Costus) intercropping. Their growing habits, edaphic and climatic requirements are also same. Through this article, I would like to request the scientists around the world to focus their studies on this important aspect. Among above mentioned three species of Hedychium, H. spicatum is well known in national and international drug markets. The powdered rhizomes of H. spicatum are used for perfuming tobacco. The rhizomes are the source of essential oil that is used in perfumery and pharmaceutical preparations. Although the natives of Amarkantak region are not aware but according to reference literatures, the aerial stems of Gulbakawali constitute a useful raw material for making paper. The dried whole stems contain 43% cellulose. The paper produced has exceptional strength, elasticity and folding qualities. This valuable use can provide additional income to Gulbakawali growers of Chhattisgarh. The increasing popularity of Gulbakawali Ark is sufficient to prove that it is promising eye-tonic. In Chhattisgarh, many parts are having the Amarkantak hills like climatic conditions. There is a need to conduct detailed field trials in these parts. These trials will help the Gulbakawali to establish as potential medicinal crop and encourage the farmers to start its commercial cultivation. The commercial cultivation will reduce the pressure on natural population. Thank you very much for reading the article Medicinal herbs of Chhattisgarh, India having less known traditional uses. XXX. Kharmor (Rungia repens, family Acanthaceae) Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved In my previous articles, I have mentioned that Rungia is considered as noxious weed by the natives of Gandai region of Chhattisgarh because its spread in dense forests is becoming curse for natural bio-diversity. In recent Ethnobotanical surveys, I have noted its presence and increasing population in Chhattisgarh Plains and Bastar region. In reference literatures related to weed science, it is mentioned as common weed. In Australia also, it is considered as weed and harmful to agricultural crops. Naturally this herb is spread throughout the warmer parts of India and Srilanka. The natives and traditional healers of Rungia infested areas are not aware of medicinal properties and uses of this herb. Even they have yet not coined its local name. In general the natives keep unidentified weeds in category of Vankachra (Van-forest; Kachra-waste). Kharmor is its Hindi name given in reference literatures. As herb lover, I am not ready to accept this herb as weed. Few years back, I have seen practically its dominance over native pecies in Gandai forest. The forest officer Mr. Namdev clearly challenged me to search its potential uses as it is creating problem in his range forest and also available in abundance. Seeing its nature of dominance and considering it strong herb having super allelopathic potential, I tried the leaf extract on common herbs reported as weeds in agricultural crops. I have screened its effect on over 30 weed species and found it effective against Doobi (Cynodon dactylon) and Gahunsa (Phalaris minor). Doobi (Bermuda or lawn grass) is considered as one of ten worst weeds of the world. Gahunsa is a weed of wheat fields. This year I am repeating this experiment in farmer's fields where Cynodon and Phalaris are common weeds. (As you know, it is very hard for me to write any herb as weed. I am sorry for using the word weed for these two useful species). Few months back, I visited Bilaspur region to meet my herb grower friend. We got opportunity to interact with the traditional healers of this region. Rungia is common this region also. Surprisingly, the healers of this region are aware of medicinal uses and properties of Rungia. Without missing this great opportunity, I noted all the uses and also got opportunity to see its practical uses. But a first I am giving details regarding its botany. According to reference literatures, Rungia is a herb with stems usually decumbent, often rooting near the base, then erect. Leaves sub-sessile, oblong, lanceolate, acute. Flowers in erect terminal imperfectly one-sided spikes, bracts elliptic, ciliate. Corolla white, blue or pink, with darker spots, two lipped, upper emarginate, lower shortly 3-lobed. Fruits capsule, ovoid oblong, acute, with scarious faces and hard ridges. Seeds suborbicular, rugose with furrow, pale brown. Flowering time Nov- January. Its Sanskrit name is Parpatha. This is really surprising that in reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India, I have yet not got detailed information about this herb. The traditional healers of Bilaspur region, use the leaves of Rungia in herbal combinations used to make hairs dandruff and lice free. According to the healers, its specific smell and worm killing properties are specific. Many healers boil the fresh leaves in Til Oil. When all watery contents evaporate, oil is collected and stored for future use. This herbal oil is massaged on the palms and soles in order to get sound sleep. It is also used as hair growth promoter. With Gorakhmundi (Sphaeranthus indicus) it is used to treat eosinophilia. The decoction of both herbs is prepared and given internally. During rainy season, to repel away the houseflies the natives burn the dried leaves with dried Neem (Azadirachta indica) leaves. The above mentioned uses in Chhattisgarh have not been reported in reference literatures. Through my on-going Ethnobotanical surveys. I am trying to inform the healers of Rungia rich areas about these uses. The healers are showing great interest in the uses of this herb. This is positive sign. I have also communicated there findings and information to Mr. Namdev, the forest officer of Gandai range. Through this article, I am requesting the researchers of Rungia rich areas of the world, to share their experiences related to utilization of Rungia, so that it can be managed ectively in Chhattisgarh forests. Thank you very much for reading the article. Medicinal herbs of Chhattisgarh, India having less known traditional uses. XXXI. Urai (Vetiveria zizanioides; family Gramineae) Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Urai is common grass found in almost every corner of Chhattisgarh. I have noted its dense natural population in Pendra and Bastar region. Urai is known as Khas or Gandar in trade. According to reference literatures it is under cultivation in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab and West Bengal. It is cultivated for an essential oil, obtained from roots and used in perfumery, cosmetic, soaps and for flavouring shurbuts. It is established and well known aromatic crop in India. In Chhattisgarh, it is not under cultivation. The natural occurrence and lack of awareness the trade and demand of this valuable herb are the main reasons, responsible. In Chhattisgarh, it is known as Urai and many of the herb collectors are still not aware that Khas and Urai are same plants. This is the reason they are getting very less price from collection. In Chhattisgarh, the demand of roots increases in hot summer. The roots are made into aromatic scented mats, fans and woven into curtains which when moistened, cool and scent the air. Urai roots are very popular among Ganja [Ganja is prepared from dried unfertilized female inflorescences of Hemp (Cannabis sativa)] smokers of Chhattisgarh. The Ganja smokers add rice and Urai roots in order to increase its narcotic effects. In my previous articles, I have written a lot on herbal cigarettes popular in Chhattisgarh. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh prepare a special herbal Cigarette using Urai roots and this is given to the patients having the problem of Adhasisi (Migraine). It is also effective in common headache. The healers informed me that it is wrong claim that addition of Urai roots in combination used by the Ganja smokers increases its narcotic effect. In fact, it reduces the harmful effects of Ganja smoking. In general, the traditional healers never advocate or support for the habit of Ganja smoking. Urai roots are in the list of non-wood forest produces of Chhattisgarh. According to the herb traders, there is a heavy demand of roots in neighbouring states. As medicinal herb, there is very less demand. The buyers at national levels, prefer the Urai roots of Chhattisgarh because it is collected from wild. In other states, it is under cultivation and farmers use chemicals for higher yield. Like Gondla (Cyperus sp.) roots, Urai root is also supplied to Saharanpur and Kannoj region of India. Besides aromatic crop, Urai is also a valuable medicinal crop. As informed early the Chhattisgarh forests are rich in natural population of Urai but it is a bitter fact that the natives and traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are not much aware of its medicinal uses and properties. The results of my Ethnobotanical surveys conducted in different parts of Chhattisgarh have revealed it. Through these surveys I have gathered some information. I am describing these information in this article. Botanically, Urai (Vetiveria zizanioides syn. Phalaris zizanioides syn. Andropogon muricatus syn. A squarrous syn. Anatherum zizanioides ) is a densely tufted perennial grass; root stock branching, with spongy aromatic roots. Culms stout, up to over 1.8 meter high, (even more), usually sheathed all along, Leaf sheath compressed, lower ones keeled and fan-like, blades narrowly linear 30-90 cm long, erect, pale green, margin spinously rough-flowers-panicle and upto 30 cm long, rachis short, whorls 6-10 with upto 20 rays, racemes upto 5 cm, slender, Sessile spikelets, colour varying from yellowish to black. Urai as medicinal herb holds a reputed position in different systems of medicine in India. Its roots are used as medicine. According to Ayurveda, Urai is cooling, bitter, alexiteric, stomachic, astringent, and useful in burning sensation, bilious fevers, sweats, foul breath, thirst, strangury, ulcers and blood diseases. According to Unani system of medicine, roots are cooling to brain, bitter, soporific, useful in Spermatorrhoea headache and blood diseases. During rainy season, the natives of Chhattisgarh burn the dried roots of Urai to repel away the flies. In case of painful boils, the healers prepare an aqueous paste with the help of Urai roots and apply it externally. To dress open wound, it is used with Neem leaves. To treat Prickly heat (Ghamori) the natives take bath after applying the root paste in affected parts. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh use the dried roots in different herbal combinations to subside the bad smell of herbs. The traditional healers of NagriSihawa region, specialized in treatment of fevers, prepare a special drink from Urai roots and give it internally to reduce the temperature as well as exhaustion. With the help of innovative herb growers of Chhattisgarh, we extracted the essential oil from Urai roots collected from wild. The oil recovery was excellent and when we showed the sample to buyers at national and international levels, they showed eagerness to purchase it in bulk. Our forests are rich in Urai and there is a tremendous scope to establish processing units in Urai rich areas of Chhattisga order to generate village level employment opportunities. Through my surveys, I am trying to locate and demarcate the Urai rich areas in Chhattisgarh map. Our plan is to use the naturally growing Urai roots and also to promote the commercial organic cultivation of Urai in these regions. The natural occurrence and good growth of any herb in any specific place clearly indicate that there are the possibilities of its commercial cultivation at that particular place. At present through herb traders the fresh roots are going outside for extraction of essential oil and after value addition, we are buying back at higher prices. We are also in process of developing improved farming techniques of Urai in Chhattisgarh. Although the traditional medicinal knowledge about Urai in Chhattisgarh is less and it is not enough to establish it as potential medicinal crop but as aromatic crop there are established markets for Urai essential oil. Through proper management and planning the Urai roots of Chhattisgarh can play a vital role in aroma industries. Thank you very much for reading the article. My experiences as regular columnist on Chhattisgarh herbs at educational website Botanical. Com Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved This is my 200th research article at educational website Botanical.com. I am feeling proud to thank the team of Botanical.com in this great time of my life. Through my Ethnobotanical and ethnozoological surveys in different parts of Chhattisgarh, the Herbal State, I have collected many valuable information in last ten years. I have published many of these informations in form of research papers in national and international journals. These journals have its own limitation. My research findings are reaching to limited readers through these journals. I have also written over 450 articles in Hindi. But after this profuse writing, I thought the articles written in major Indian language Hindi are again limited to specific readers. Before starting writing at this website, I have written many articles in other websites but after getting homely environment and encouraging support from the team of Botanical.com, I decided to write regularly only at Botanical.com. When I look back, the 200 articles on Chhattisgarh herbs are beyond my imagination. I am thankful to mother nature, and natives and traditional healers of Chhattisgarh for showing deep faith in me and my surveys. When last week I got message of appreciation from an eminent herb expert of USA, saying you have written so many useful articles in common man's language, no one has yet not written as much articles. I humbly replied that the information on herbs and insects present in Chhattisgarh are like big ocean and what you eeing in my articles is less than a drop of this ocean. I am fortunate that I am on earth at the time of internet revolution. This is the net through which my articles have reached to different corners of the world. My articles have reached to different corners of the world. My articles acted (and acting as) bridge between me and world community. Earlier Chhattisgarh was relatively less known part of the world. Today Chhattisgarh is well known for its valuable flora and fauna and great natives and traditional healers. I am getting hundreds of e-mails daily from the patients having serious health problems. They are eager to take the advantage to traditional knowledge. For them I am acting as bridge between the patients and healers. Many foreign visitors visited Chhattisgarh to meet the healers and many visitors are due to visit this state. I got overwhelming responses from the scientific community. Dr. Gyde Lund, an eminent forest expert, has always encouraged me by publishing the information on my latest articles at Botanical.com in well known e-newsletter Forest information update. The reputed international organization FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) Rome has published information about these articles at NWFP (Non-wood forest produce) Digest time to time. Prof. Anil Gupta, Dr. G.A. Kinhal, Dr. Jules Janick, Phytomedica (Yahoo) group team members, Dr. Ivor Hughes, Dr. Akansha Kumar, Dr. Sunita Garg are among the scientists, always motivated me to write regularly on these important aspects. I am aware that it is not possible to satisfy all persons at a time. I have tried to write and present the articles so that it can be useful for both beginners and experts. To aware the common person and to create interest in them, I have written these in story form. English is not my mother tongue. This is the reason I feel it very difficult to write the exact information, in true shape, many times. Basically I am Agronomist, expert of Agriculture science but my hobby and interest of herbs and insects have made me Ethnobotanist, Homoeopath, Allelopath, Entomologist and Herb expert. In my country only 30 lakhs people have access to internet. We are over 100 crores. This is the reason very few people from India are aware of my research articles. As internet facilities are increasing, now more and more people particularly young, innovative farmers are taking interest in information available on-line. Most of these young farmers are interested in herbal farming. In India, Safed Musli is No. 1 crop these days and every one is eager to know more and more details about this valuable crop. I am proud to say that Botanical.com is the only site in the world having the maximum numbers of articles on various aspects of this millennium crop. I am trying hard to provide latest research oriented information on Indian herbs to the farmers through this educational website. The encouraging responses of readers motivated me to conduct the surveys frequently on different aspects. I got suggestions to establish the traditional healers forum to provide a platform for the healers. I have prepared a list of 6000 traditional healers and trying to establish regular contact with them. To answer the queries of the readers, the need of message board has generated. I requested and the team of Botanical.com simply accepted it. Within a month, I got separate message board for free discussion on my articles. Today the message Board is full of queries around the world. This 200th article is not the end point. It is just the beginning. My wish is to write thousands articles till the end of my life. My soul is enjoying the role of Pankaj Oudhia, it is playing in this life. I have always tried to avoid this, but if my articles have ever hurted the feelings of any reader, I am extremely sorry for this, and I will try to avoid this in future. Thank you very much for reading my articles. Botanical.com Editorial Comments - Happy Anniversary, Dr. Oudhia! It's been one year since we began publication of Dr. Oudhia's articles. Over the last year, Botanial.com has been pleased and proud to be able to provide a forum and outlet for Dr. Oudhia's research articles. What amazes us is that he is so willing to share this knowledge with the world at large - knowledge that for the most part, westerners have little understanding of. We believe that the internet is the greatest medium for communication of information; even 20 years ago, the articles presented in this column would have never reached the people who stood to benefit the most from them - the farmers of the Chhattisgarh [and other] regions in India, students of alternative healing therapies, and all the rest of us who read, study and marvel at the way mother earth provides for us. ~Webmaster Julie Botanical.com Can we save the valuable rain insects (Rani Keeda) in Chhattisgarh, India ? Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved From last week, daily morning I am visiting to river areas of Chhattisgarh to see the Red velvety carpet spread all over the fields. These carpet consists of thousands of rain insects (Rani Keeda, Red Velvet Mite, Beer bahuti, Trombidium) appear on ground every year for three to four hours. I am regularly monitoring these rain insects from 1996 and feeling very sad to inform that its natural population is decreasing at alarming rates. This is not the situation of Raipur region but the volunteers of SOPAM from different corners of Chhattisgarh are regularly sending the same observations. The reason for decreasing population is well known and that is its heavy demand as medicinal insect in national and international markets. It is used as sex tonic, mainly. It is also in use for preparation of oil to enlarge the breasts. It is known as Birbahuti in national markets and Trombidium at international markets. Since generations, the natives and traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are using this rain insect (entomologically mite) as medicine both internally and externally. The reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India are full of information on medicinal uses of the rain insects. In my previous article I have written a lot on this medicinal insect. Every morning when we visit to river side, we find hundreds of insect collectors already present there and engaged in collection. It is true that the increasing national and international demands have generated new employment opportunities for rural persons but it is also a bare fact that due to unscientific exploitation its population is decreasing at alarming rate. Unfortunately, the state government have no control on its trade. Very few officers are aware of th trade. The insect collectors are also not aware of its national and international demand. This is the reason, they are getting the same price for collection as they were getting decades back. I have searched the net for medicinal properties and uses of rain insects but yet not got any information. Every year through different sources, I try to communicate regarding this endangered species to the world community with hope that I will get some technical guidance in order to protect this species well in time. This year the collection has increased many folds. This will continue upto 10-15 more days. Yesterday, Raipur based National Newspaper Janasatta published the information on this rain insect and my appeal on front page. They have assured me to highlight this important news at national level. I am confident that my appeal in form of the article will reach to the world community through Botanical.com one more time. From traditional healers of Chhattisgarh specialized in use of this insect as medicine, I have learnt special method of its collection. They informed me that to maintain the population of rain insect in nature they collect it from only one direction. Next year they collect it from other direction. This rotational collection helps in maintaining the natural population and this is the reason, the activities of healers and natives, never disturb these insects. Now the new collectors are under pressure and they are collecting more and more insects in less and less time to earn more. The local herb markets of Chhattisgarh are becoming full of dead rain insects. The traders are purchasing it in bulk and drying it in sunlight. After drying they will sell it to the Varanasi market of Uttar Pradesh, famous for Rain insect oil extraction units. At international markets, this oil is sold at very high rates. I am working with this rain insect since 1992. I have evaluated it during my plastic eating organism projects but not found very promising. Raipur (India) experienced Total Solar Eclipse (95%) on 11th August, 1999 (from 5.58pm to 6.02 pm). Studies were conducted to know the effects on (1) behavioural changes (2) and feeding activities of some insects and mites. The studies were focused on Mexican Beetle (Zygogramma bicolorata Pallister), Tortoise beetle spidomorpha miliaris F.), Lady bird beetle (Coccinella septumpunctata Linn. ). Blumea leaf beetle (Chrysolina madrasae Jackoby) and Red Velvet mite (Trombidium grandissimum Koch). Twenty five adults of the beetles were kept in plastic jars partially filled with soil in direct exposure (i.e. outside the laboratory), and indirect exposure (i.e. inside the laboratory). The experiments were replicated thrice. Observations were recorded from 4.00pm to 7.30 pm continuously. The results were compared with their activities in normal days. In another experiments, these beetles were kept with different feeding materials in order to study the effects of Total Solar Eclipse on feeding habits. During Total Solar Eclipse (i.e. from 5.58pm to 6.02pm) abnormal activities of Chrysolina and Trombidium (the rain insect) were noted. Beetles suddenly came out from soil and started rapid movement. This abnormal movement was also observed in beetles inside the laboratory but the movement were slower. Trombidium mites stopped feeding during 5.00pm to 6.30pm no changes in feeding activities of other beetles were observed during experimental period. (Oudhia, P. 1999. Effect of Total Solar Eclipse on activities of some insects and mites. Insect Environment. Vol. 5(3). 113-114) My wish is to test this rain insect in case of Bhoo-kamp (Earthquake). I am not sure but I feel that this species can play a vital role in earthquake forecasting. As the facilities for this type of detailed research are not available with me, I have yet not started studies on this important aspect. Every time when I see these rain insect, my love for it increases many times. I am observing its decreasing population from 1996 and this is my misfortune that I have yet not got success to impose ban to its illegal trade from Chhattisgarh. If you have any suggestion on this aspect, please e-mail it to me. Thank you very much for reading the article. Possible uses of wonder crop Safed Musli (Chlorophytum borivilianum). Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved As the area and production under Safed Musli are increasing in India, now more and more farmers have started the search for potential markets. Although many Musli growers claim that there is annual demand of 300-500 tons dry Musli roots in international markets (many claims it is 1200 tons) but officially no record is available. Chlorophytum species around the world. Species Other Names / Remarks C. bowkeri C. heynei C. krookianum C. macrophyllum C. rigidum C. undulatum C. capense C. elatum, Asphodelus capensis, Anthericum elatum. C. laxum Katki Hills, Belgaum, Dharwar, North and South Kanara, Deccan Peninsula in India C. borivilianum Dang forests (Gujarat), Aravali Hills, cultivated species in India C. arundinaceum All districts of Chota Nagpur, Vindhya, Satpura and Aravali Hills, parts of Cental India, Tarai region of N-E Himalayas in Assam, W. Bengal and Bihar. in India C. tuberosum Wild occurence in India C. comosum C. comosum 'Mandaianum' Popular garden plant C. comosum 'Vittatum' (Spider plant, Aeroplane plant) C. zingiberastrum C. bichetii C. malayense C. syngonium C. brasiliense Brazilian Chlorophyte Rare in natural habitat in Brazil C. amaniense Fire Flash Africa (Gabon and Cameroon) C. alismifolium C. brevipes C.pussilum C. seretii C. sparsiflorum C. stenopetalum C. parviflorum C. durbanense South Africa C. hasslerianum Paraguay C. virdis C. nepalense C. orchidantheroides C. filipendulum C. silvaticum C. striatum C. baruchae Reported from India C. chinense C. montanum C. madagascariensis C. gallabatense C. zanguebaricum C. piliosissimum C. haygarthii C. attenuatum Western Ghats, Southwards to Coimbatore, West Peninsula in India C. breviscapum Parts of Konkan to Travancore in Kerala, Eastern Himalaya, Bihar and West Bengal, Sikkim Himalay, Belgaum and South Peninsula in India This is correct that it is exported to international traders but there is no huge demand as claimed. In fact, Dr. Bordia from Rajasthan, the pioneer Safed Musli researcher of India, have mentioned in his research paper that seeing the present demand one can expect the projected demand of 300 500 tons dry roots in future. But many Musli growers presented this projected demand wrongly to the beginners that there is a demand of 300 tons dry roots every year. Many species of Chlorophytum have been reported in different parts of the world. In other parts of the world, it is used as ornamental plant. In India, it is considered as valuable medicinal herb. In reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India, Safed Musli as medicinal herb, holds a reputed position. Most of the pharmaceutical companies engaged in manufacturing of Safed Musli based formulations are still dependent on Safed Musli collected from wild. As a regular visitor to Safed Musli rich forests I am aware that due to heavy demand, Musli population is decreasing in its natural habitat and if timely steps are not taken, very soon it will become an endangered species. The commercial cultivation of Safed Musli in India is helping in reducing the pressure on its natural population. I would like to mention the awareness of the Maharashtra forest department. In Maharashtra, the collection of Safed Musli roots or herb from wild is officially banned. Only after cultivation one can sell in to markets legally. This great effort is saving the Musli in its natural habitat in Maharashtra State. Unfortunately, the other Indian States are not ready to learn this lesson from the Maharashtra forest department. In my State Chhattisgarh there is no such ban and as result, the natural population and associated species are decreasing at alarming rate. The Chhattisgarh forests fulfill the national demand upto great extent. Once the forest departments of these states will ban the natural collection of Safed Musli the demand of Musli collected from agricultural fields will increase. Initially the commercial cultivation was restricted to limited pockets. Today it is under cultivation in almost every corner of India. This is the best time for the processors and researchers to develop and search new potential and promising uses of Safed Musli. In my previous articles I have mentioned that the natives living in Safed Musli rich forest regions use the fresh leaves of Safed Musli as Pot herb. Although they use it as curry just for taste but the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are aware of its medicinal uses and properties. According to them, one time eating of this herb in growing season, make the body enough resistant to fight against diseases round the year. They also claim that it possess anti-ageing properties and chemicals. Although it has yet not proven through modern science but the healers have no doubt on this point. I have tasted the curry prepared from Musli leaves. It is delicious and through improved cooking methods one can make it more tasty. I have introduced it in many leading hotels of Chhattisgarh successfully. As you know, if ones customers like the taste, then there is no need to search for markets. I personally feel that there is a need to think and act on this aspect. I am aware that collection of young leaves will result in poor root yield and roots are the part having high demand, but I am confident that our plant breeders will think in this aspect and through research, try to develop dual purpose varieties of Safed Musli. The experts of plant breeding can help us in developing the need based varieties. In India, there is no variety of Safed Musli has been released so far. This field is blank and there is a tremendous scope. In India, there is hardly any Safed Musli Gene bank. With the help of non-governmental organization SAMPDA (Samagra Adivasi Medicinal Plants Development Associated), Kondagaon (Bastar), we are trying to establish the Gene bank exclusive for Safed Musli. We are maintaining almost all types found in Chhattisgarh in this Gene bank. Last year from Bhopalpatnam region of Chhattisgarh. I collected leafy Musli herb. This leafy type is preferred by the natives and healers to prepare the curry. With the help of the researchers of SAMPDA, I am conducting a systematic research to know the effect of leaf removal on Safed Musli production. We are trying to find the critical point where leaf removal can not result in significant yield reduction. We will be happy to present the leaf type of Musli to interested plant breeders from any corner of the world, wishing to conduct studies on this important aspect. I have tasted the pickles prepared from fresh Musli roots in many Musli farms of India. This is good effect and initiative. But a lot of efforts are still needed to make the perfect pickles. In reference literatures, there is no description of Safed Musli pickles. This is the new use developed by the innovative Musli growers of India. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh were also not aware of Musli Achar (pickles). When I presented some samples few years back, they tried it on their patients and also on themselves. Their initial observations are encouraging. Their increasing demand for pickles and also using local material for pickling are remarkable. I would like to request the food experts to start experiments on this important aspect at your earliest and generate the information on upto how much time it can be kept safe? How new types of pickles can be prepared in combination of other pickles. Also find out that Musli pickles prepared from roots possess same properties of dried roots or not? Many diabetic patients using this pickles just for taste have found it useful to manage this problem, accidentally. We have informed about this accidental finding to the healers and now they are testing it with the help of their traditional methods. If these finding are true then, the Musli pickles can bring the real revolution in to field of diabetes management. Few years back I proposed, the project of nutritious Musli biscuits, to a leading Biscuit company of India. For their experiments and trial, our farmers supplied both wet and dry Musli roots. The experiment was successful. We received different types of samples to taste and select the best one. The binding property of Musli's natural chemicals played vital role in development of herbal biscuits. Before launching it in world market, the company wants to conduct clinical trials to know its long term effects. As Musli Biscuit is not mentioned in ancient literatures, without clinical trials it is difficult to launch it in world market. The trials are still in progress. We have also tried to make chips and wafers from Musli roots, like potato but failed to achieve this target. The company is trying to find out that whether Musli Biscuits can be used for growing children or not? After getting the information on Musli pickles having anti-diabetic properties, now the company is conducting a separate trial focused on diabetic patients. I would like to mention here clearly that the possible uses about which I am writing in this article are new for the world community. I am not ignoring or denying the medicinal properties and uses of raw Musli roots. As I have already written a lot on this aspect, I am not repeating it in present one. The fashion and addiction of chewing tobacco and Gutkha are becoming curse for the Indian youths. Very few users know the fact that in these so-called harmful Gutkha pouches, not everything is harmful to health. You will be surprised to know that the Gutkha industries are becoming one of the potential market of Safed Musli roots. They manufactures are adding dried Safed Musli roots in these Gutkha combinations as filler and binder. And knowingly or say unknowingly, the valuable Musli roots are going inside the users body and providing them health benefits. The experts claim that over 30 percent of total national demand of Musli is in Gutkha and chewing tobacco industries. Last year when I got the trade inquiry from the leading carpet manufacturing company of India about Safed Musli, I surprised. This is new information for the readers that there is a fair demand of Musli roots in carpet manufacturing industries. I am still not aware that what they do with this nutritious roots. When I raised this inquiry among experts at National Workshop on Indian Medicinal and Aromatic Plants with special emphasis on Safed Musli, the millennium crop, many experts replied that they are using it for polishing the strings and threads in order to get the shining. They further info that this polishing helps in repelling the damage causing insects away from carpet. Does it means that Musli roots possess insect repelling properties? Wow !!! this is new area opened. I have never thought to conduct experiment to evaluate the insecticidal properties of Safed Musli. Dear Entomologists, be aware and please start research on this future crop. As researcher, I am aware that no imagination is waste. Through proper thinking, we can convert all imagination into grand success. Few months back I got opportunity to interact with Mr. Ajay Mittal, one of the leading Musli growers of India, on possible uses of Safed Musli. By seeing its sticky nature, we talked on possibilities of making nutritious gum for different purposes. The above mentioned possible uses are not enough. This is our moral responsibility to develop new uses of Safed Musli herb in order to prepare safe for the thousands Safed Musli growers. As I warn in my every article, in the name of quantity please do not use chemical inputs in Safed Musli cultivation, otherwise the Musli will be of no value. No one will be agreed to make its biscuits, gum, or use it as pot herb. Thank you very much for reading the article. Traditional medicinal knowledge about first rain water in Chhattisgarh, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved 'Jal Hi Jivan Hai' (Water is Life), we all are aware of this fact. The purity of Ganga Jal (Water collected from Ganga river) is world famous. For the natives and traditional healers of Chhattisgarh the water of first monsoon rains is valuable and important. For the first time, I got the information on therapeutic value of rain water through Shri Vishal Bharat, an eminent herb expert of Chhattisgarh. He was my Guru and specialized in treatment of different types of cancer. He never missed to collect the rain water in enough quantity during rainy season. During treatment of cancer patients, he always instruct the patients to drink more and more rain water. In case of non-availability, he was suggesting the spring water. The well water was third preference. For his patients, he was collecting more and more water for its use round the year. In reference literatures, related to different systems of medicine in India the use of rain water for cancer patients has not been reported. This was new information for me. Later when I conducted detailed Ethnobotanical surveys, in different parts of Chhattisgarh, I got information that almost all healers specialized in treatment of cancer recommend this use. The healers prefer the water from first rains, but in case of poor collection, they collect water from subsequent rains. For collection of rain water, they prefer Tamra Patra (Copper vessels). The traditional healers at interior regions having not enough purchasing capacity to buy Tamra Patra, use earthen pots (Ghada) to collect rain water. According to them, the water before reaching to ground surface must be collected. The rain water coming down through plants are also collected but they have their specific list of plants that can be used for this purpose. My grandfather was aware of miracle healing properties of rain water. My father still remember that during his childhood the grand father never misses the chance to collect the water from first rain. The natives take bath with this water. According to them, this water removes the extra heat from the body and treats the small boils common in hot summer days in Chhattisgarh. It is common belief in isgarh Plains that the hairs should be protected from rain water as it loosens the hairs. Last week when I informed Dr. Shinji Takara, an expert from Japan about traditional medicinal knowledge about first rain water in Chhattisgarh, he replied that it is not possible in his country, because due to heavy atmospheric pollution, the first rain falls as acid rain and no one want to collect this acid. We are fortunate that in our part of the world, the atmospheric pollution is not a problem and the natives and traditional healers are getting pure rain water. During my surveys in Amarkantak region, my field worker informed me that the first rain water is given in this region, as treatment of stomach troubles. It is recommended as two to three spoonful daily empty stomach. The natives of Chhattisgarh Plains are also aware of this use. During my surveys in Mungeli region, the natives informed that it should not be given to pregnant woman. They are not aware of the scientific reason for this restriction. During my surveys in Bastar region, the healers informed that they use the first rain water collected from specific herbs, herbal combinations in place of water. I am explaining it more clearly. When the healers prepare herbal combinations using Bramhi herb, for instance, and the addition of water is must, in such cases they use the first rain water collected from Bramhi herb in place of normal water. The traditional healers are aware of valuable medicinal properties of first rain water but the collection in maximum quantity is the main problem for them. They keep this collection as precious asset and due to less quantity, they use it in serious troubles only. In name of first rain water, many local herb shops sell bottled water but the traditional healers have little faith in this and they use it only in case of urgency. The healers have no traditional water testing method to differentiate all types of water, but many healers claim that by seeing the reaction of patients taking different types of water, they can simply tell the sources. I have yet not seen it practically but I have no doubt on their in-depth traditional knowledge. In my laboratory, I have tried the first rain water on germination of common seeds. Although all selected species failed to show the same response. But many species showed significantly higher germination and vigour. The detailed studies are in progress. Through my visits to different parts of India, I have collected a lot of information on medicinal uses of rain water but this is really surprising that I have yet not found these informations in reference literatures. I personally feel that this is an important aspect on which there is a need for detailed research without any delay. After herbs and insects, this is a new field for me. This article is the first written document on the traditional medicinal knowledge about first rain water in Chhattisgarh, India. I am confident that through my surveys I will be able to collect more information on this traditional knowledge. Thank you very much for reading the article. My experiments and experiences with Gajar Ghas (Parthenium hysterophorus). Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Living with both Parthenium and Politicians from very long time, I have found many similarities in these two. Parthenium is a field weed and Politician is the social weed. Both are causing damages to our economy. Not only the first word of Parthenium and Politician i.e., 'P' but they have many common characters. Parthenium is allergy causing weed and we all are facing and aware of allergy caused by the politicians. It is really very hard to manage both species. Both are spreading like anything in all corners of the world. Before writing my experiments and experiences with this so-called obnoxious weed, I am giving basic details of this herb. Dr. M. Mahadevappa, the well known Parthenium researcher, write in his book titled 'Parthenium and its Management' that Parthenium, an obnoxious annual weed has been reported as a main source of nuisance and health hazard to mankind and animals, threat to bio-diversity and danger to environment. Since its introduction into India 1956 through grain shipment, it has spread alarming like a wild blaze in almost all the states and has now invaded cultivated, forest, pasture and garden lands. For the first time I met Parthenium in experimental fields of India Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur. As a student when I was engaged in weed counting, my Professor Dr. S.S. Kolhe informed me about this problematic herb. He informed that the pollens of Parthenium are allergic and can cause respiratory troubles. Unbelieving on him, I inhaled the pollens and on the same day, the respiratory trouble started. I consulted my family doctor and he diagnosed that 'You are prone to pollen allergy'. After attending the First International Conference on Parthenium Management at University of Dharwad, Karnataka, India in the year 1997, the great dedication and sincere work of Dr. M. Mahadevappa motivated me to dedicate whole life to aware the common people about this weed and to conduct studies for its effective management. After coming back to Raipur, I formed non-governmental organization Society for Parthenium Management (SOPAM). At present we have 23 regular members of this society. I am not confident whether it is right or wrong decision but we have decided to take no financial assistance from any national or international funding agencies to run this organization. We are running this society from our own expenses. Our main activities are to aware the common people about the identification, harms and management of this weed. We are writing articles, publishing advertisements, organizing awareness camps, etc. You will be surprised to know that we have received over 10000 letters from different corners of India. We have replied with details regarding Parthenium and colored photographs. We are still receiving letters. After the end of Parthenium conference, to provide forum to scientists, researchers, farmers, students, common persons etc. associated with this obnoxious weed, I decided to form an International forum named International Parthenium Research News Group (IPRNG) and to save the expenses and increase the accessibility, I have made this forum on-line. I tried my best to add all available information on Parthenium in this on-line forum (http://www.IPRNG.org). I am proud to say that today this website is world's only website having complete details of this obnoxious weed. There is no membership fee for IPRNG. There is no access charge and to avoid confusions, I have added no advertisement of multinational companies engaged in sell of Parthenium killing agrochemicals. Latest Parthenium references, directory of Parthenium scientists around the world, bare facts, Articles, photographs etc. everything about this weed is available free of cost. I am maintaining this site again with my own expenses. In Chhattisgarh, it is bare fact that most of the natives are not aware of its harmful effects. Parthenium is exotic weed and it is present in all parts of Chhattisgarh. It is becoming a curse for the natural biodiversity of the state. The valuable herbs are dyeing due to harmful allelochemicals of Parthenium herb. As I have mentioned in my previous articles, the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh have accepted this exotic herb as challenge. They are conducting detailed experiments to discover its valuable medicinal properties and uses both alone and in combination with other native herbs. I am feeling proud to know their positive approach. In the name of Parthenium eradication, many multinational companies are dumping harmful agrochemicals in Chhattisgarh. These agrochemicals are damaging our ecosystem. I am not in favour of killing enemy through more powerful enemy that can cause harm to ourselves. With the help of natives, innovative farmers, doctors and traditional healers, from last 7 years, I am trying my best to find out its potential uses. With the help of leading Homoeopath Dr. B.R. Guha and Dr. D.B. Rajimwale, we prepared Homoeopathic drug from different parts of Parthenium and tested it on different patients scientifically. These clinical studies have showed that Parthenium present in Chhattisgarh can be used to treat many common diseases as Homoeopathic medicine. After getting the information that Parthenium hysterophorus is already an established Homoeopathic drug, but it is useful in rare cases, we brought samples from Germany and tried it in clinical trials. You will be surprised to know that the Homoeopathic drug prepared from locally collected Parthenium showed more better results as compared to the drug brought from Germany. Unfortunately, both Dr. Guha and Dr. Rajimwale are not with us. Now the elder son of Dr. Rajimwale, Dr. Deepak Rajimwale is taking keen interest in this work. Through my recent Ethnobotanical surveys in different parts of Chhattisgarh, I have noted that the traditional healers engaged in development of drugs from Parthenium have developed the method to identify the potential Parthenium plant, visually in field conditions. According to them, like other herbs, the herbs present in surroundings rthenium play vital role in making the Parthenium more or less potential in terms of medicinal values. At present, the healers are using it externally in treatment of many common diseases. For internal use, they are demanding more time. This little research finding is of great importance for the world community particularly for the persons living in Parthenium infested parts of the globe. In my initial articles I have informed you about the challenge, now I am informing you about the latest findings, in future like this, I will inform you about the latest development on this new research. In my M.Sc. project work, the topic of my thesis was 'Allelopathic effects of selected weeds on crops.' I was assigned to conduct the Research but luckily, I got some promising weed extracts and leachates, through sincere Search. Earlier the Parthenium was reported as weed that produces chemicals result in only harmful effects. But my studies showed that the Parthenium chemicals are not harmful to every plant species. In many species it produces beneficial effects. My supervisor forced me to change the data as it was new information not reported by the early workers. But with the help of my Professor Dr. R.S. Tripathi, I got success to report the actual data in my thesis. Later I published it in many national and international journals. After associating with the herb growers of Chhattisgarh, I tried these extracts and leachates practically in field conditions. Among these extracts and leachates, Parthenium extracts and leachates were also there. You will be surprised to know that today the herb growers are using Parthenium extracts and leachates as presowing soaking treatment of Ambrette (Kasturi Bhendi) and Kevatch (Mucuna pruriens) seeds in order to get good germination and higher initial seedling vigor. The farmers are taking full precaution during the collection of this allergy causing weed. Now the farmers are well trained and the positive sign is that they are adding more herbs in these extracts and leachates, just for experimentation. We are also using the Parthenium with cow-urine and dung based solution to repel away the harmful insects and diseases from common medicinal and aromatic crops, successfully. I am confident that very soon we will able to list out the detailed uses of Parthenium. These uses will then help us to manage Parthenium and to establish this so-called weed as useful herb. My friends and farmers, aware of my work on Parthenium, always say that when they see Parthenium, they suddenly remember me and when they see me, the herb of Parthenium come in mind. This is a matter of scientific investigation to find out the similarities between Pankaj Oudhia and Parthenium. Here again, the 'P' is common (like in case of Parthenium and Politician). If this weed is creating any problem in your area, please visit to Parthenium website (www.IPRNG.org) and in case of any query, please feel free to write. Thank you very much for reading the article. The search for rare herbs in Chhattisgarh, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved From last ten years, I am in search of real Telia Kand. Telia Kand, is a herb, according to the herb collectors, contains acidic liquid inside the roots having the properties to dissolve the iron pin. In Hindi, Telia means oily (Tel - Oil). In the name of Telia Kand, the herb collectors sell different herbs at very high rates. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh consider it as valuable medicinal herb. According to them, this herb is capable of dissolving all the foreign bodies present inside the body. Many healers claim that it is promising herb that can be useful in treatment of different types of cancer. In reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India, many herbs have been mentioned as Telia Kand and it is still a problem to identify the correct species. For testing, the healers suggest to pierce pin inside the root and if it is genuine Telia Kand then it will be dissolved. If there is no effect on pin, then it is false material. When I visit forests for Ethnobotanical surveys, I always keep pin with me and never miss to ask the healers to show the true Telia Kand. Through my surveys, I have noted that healers of Amarkantak and Gandai region use the Telia Kand more commonly. These regions are well known for dense forests. The healers of region, informed that the Rengakhar area is rich in Telia Kand. I visited this area few years back and collected rare herbs but unfortunately not got the True Telia Kand. In local herb markets, in the name of Telia Kand many dry roots are available. I ave collected over 35 samples known as Telia Kand in different regions. As all the samples are dry, it is very difficult to test whether it is genuine or not. According to the herb collectors, the fresh roots are having the capacity to dissolve the pin and I have yet not seen the fresh roots. I have raised questions of Kand in different scientific forums but noted that the scientists are not ready to accept its presence without seeing its miracle effects. Few days back I discussed about this herb with senior herb researchers Dr. Rajendra Gupta and Dr. M. R. Uniyal. They informed that they have heard about this herb but yet not seen it any where. I will continue my search for this rare herb in future and inform you about latest information. For the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh, the rare herbs or rare species of any herb are of great importance. In my previous article, I have mentioned about the occurrence of white flowered Mokhla (Asteracantha longifolia), Akarkara (Spilanthes sp.) and Bhatkatiya (Solanum xanthocarpum). Whenever the healers find these rare herbs in forest, they collect it and keep it as valuable asset. One good thing I have noted is that the healers collect these rare herbs for them, only if these are present in any specific location in abundance. When there are less plants, they leave the spot as such and collect the useful part only. In general, the natives associate these rare species with good luck and wealth. Taking advantage of this belief, the herb collectors and herb vendors keep these herbs with them and sell it at fair rates. Although it is not scientifically proven but according to the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh , these rare herbs possess more rich medicinal properties and uses as compared to its common forms. I am keeping positive thinking in search of Telia Kand because my search of Bhramarmar or Bhramarmari has not gone waste. I have mentioned about this herb in previous articles. This herb attracts the flies and snakes commit suicide (?) near this herb. For the first time, I heard about this herb from my Guru Shri Vishal Bharat. He was using the bark of Bhramarmari in treatment of blood cancer. Bhramarmar in Chhattisgarh was his discovery. Although the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are aware of this herb since generations but they do not use it in treatment of cancer. In different parts of the state it is known with different names. I have collected its sixteen names in local languages. Shri Vishal Bharat once told me about this herb and warn me not to disclose its identify to every one because it is rare and needs conservation. With the help of innovative herb growers, we are trying to propagate this herb artificially in order to conserve it. I am not aware of its presence in other parts of the world but in Chhattisgarh, I have seen only 35 such herbs in isolated patches. When I wrote about this herb in local news paper, the greedy traders started hunt for this rare herb. After this incidence, I stopped writing on this rare herb. By visiting the forests having natural population of Bhramarmar, I am trying to identify the fly species attracted towards this herb and try understand to that as it is not an insectivorous plant, for what purpose this herb attracts these flies.? I have seen the white flowers of Satyanashi, only once with the traditional healer of Chhattisgarh plains. After that I have yet not seen it in field conditions. The Mexican poppy (Argemone mexicana) is a common wasteland plant. In reference literatures, yellow flowered species has been reported. According to the traditional healers, the white flowered species also occurs in Chhattisgarh but very rarely. The healers use the white flowers in treatment of complicated diseases. Recently I got information from Bhopalpatnam region that it is present in that area. I am eager to visit the region. From this region, I also got information on occurrence of Red Musli. This is new information for me as well as the other herbs. A lot have been written on Kali (Black) and Safed (White) Musli (Curculigo sp. and Chlorophytum sp.) but Red (Lal) Musli is not mentioned any where. I have received the sample. It is identical to Safed Musli on all aspects except in colour. It is also very rare herb. I will write more about Red Musli in my future articles. In absence of taxonomist in my team it is very difficult to identify the new species. As the information on rare herbs in Chhattisgarh are not available in documentation form, I am satisfied that atleast the preliminary information is now coming in form of written document. I am confident that for the young researchers of coming generation these articles will provide proper guidance. Thank you very much for reading the article. Some useful information about herbs and its uses noted from the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Baibirang is one of the non-wood forest produces of Chhattisgarh having fair demand in national and international markets. Baibirang (Embelia ribes, family : Mysinaceae) fruit is used as anthelmintic and astringent. Many leading pharmaceutical companies are using Baibirang as medicine in different popular formulations. The herb traders of Chhattisgarh informed me that there is demand of only fresh Baibirang. No body wants to purchase it stored Baibirang. My friend working at leading pharmaceutical company informed me that the Baibirang fruits coming from forests are used directly in different formulations. This company is well known in its field. You will be surprised to know that the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh specialised in use of Baibirang as medicine never use the fresh Baibirang as medicine. According to them like stored rice, gud and wine, stored Baibirang possess more medicinal properties. The reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India support the traditional healers experience. Similarly, the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh always prefer fresh Satavar (Asparagus racemosus) and Asgandh (Withania somnifera) for preparation of formulation. This is a bare fact that the leading pharmacies taking advantage from the name of Ayurveda, purchase dry Satavar and Asgandh powder from traders and without grading using it in herbal formulations. These small but valuable information are very important for me and I never miss to note it down in my field diaries during the surveys. I have noted that the healers of Chhattisgarh have good knowledge about uses of herbs and about the precautions to be taken. In present article, I am describing these useful information. As you know, Koha (Terminalia arjuna; Arjun) bark is a boon for the heart patients. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh take special precaution during its collection. They always select old trees for the collection. New or young trees are not used. Many healers simply identify the genuine material from samples available in local herb markets. Last year I got opportunity to learn the visual testing method. The healers told that the collected bark should be devoid of cork. If it contains cork, it means it is collected from new trees. In old trees due to exfoliation, the cork gets removed automatically. Although there are many chemical tests are available to identify the genuine material but the traditional healers knowledge is practical knowledge and require no sophisticated equipment as well as valuable time. The healers have their own criteria to choose best material for the preparation of drugs. When they select Harra (Terminalia chebula), they prefer fruits having smaller seed and more pulp. The fruits having bigger seeds with less pulp are rejected. To identify the best quality fruit of Bhelwa (Semecarpus anacardium), the healers dip the fruits in water. The floating fruits are rejected and other are used to prepare formulations. The healers of Amarkantak region, identify the Varahikand (Tacca sp.) By its appearance as forehead of wild boar (Varahi-boar). In the name of Varahikand many false herbs are available. Through this simple method the healers identify the genuine material. During my Ethnobotanical surveys in Kondagaon region, I have noted that the natives have named common herbs based on its specific feature, properties and uses. Lantana is exotic weed and new for the natives of this region. They are aware of its harmful effects. They have named it Bemari Lata (Bemari - disease), a disease causing herb. Some other examples are Jhagadhin (Gloriosa superba), Kurvajadi (Rauvolfia serpentina), Sukandi (Curcuma amada) et. In different regions of Chhattisgarh I have found different names of same erb. And in most of the cases by putting all these names on paper, one can simply write all about this specific herb. The main language of Chhattisgarh is Chhattisgarhi but in Bastar, Halbi is more popular. Similarly the Chhattisgarhi of Bilaspur region is different from that of Raipur. I can speak and understand Chhattisgarhi but it is very hard for me to understand Halbi. In Halbi speaking area I always take local guide for the surveys. The local names of any herb changes after every ten kilometers in Chhattisgarh. This diversity has given us the opportunity to understand different herbs through different names and expressions. The healers strictly warn the patients to never boil the same decoction again and again. According to them, if any one boils the prepared decoction, even at once, it acts as poison and its use can cause dangerous side effects. In previous article. I have mentioned about the traditional knowledge about medicinal uses of rain water. I would like to add this information that the healers never allow the patients to mix honey with first rain water because according to them, it is poison. In my previous articles, I have written a lot on useful herbs Bemchi (Psoralea corylifolia) and Charota (Cassia tora). Both are Leguminous herb and occur as weed in crop fields and wastelands. Charota occurs in rainy season whereas Bemchi in winter season. During recent Ethnobotanical surveys. I got interesting information about these herbs. The healers informed that in scarcity of Bemchi seeds one can use Charota seeds, as promising substitute without any problem. This is new but valuable information for me. In reference literatures. I have not found the details regarding use of Dhawai (Woodfordia fruticosa) flower as natural sweetener like Stevia leaves but the healers of Chhattisgarh informed me that in scarcity of Mulethi (Glycyrrhiza glabra) one can use the Dhawai flowers successfully. The healers claim that they have promising substitute to all Himalayan herbs in Chhattisgarh. In reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India, it is mentioned that the nature of herbs found in Himalaya possess cold nature whereas the nature of herbs found in Vindhya hills and surrounding broad areas, is hot. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are not ready to accept it. With the help of these healers I am preparing the list of Chhattisgarh herbs that can be used as substitute to Himalayan herbs. The flora and fauna of both regions are entirely different. May I expect the similar work from any expert or researcher from Himalayan region to ask the healers of that region to prepare list of herbs, promising substitute to Chhattisgarh herbs ? Through initial listing I have got many valuable information. According to the healers, Motha (Cyperus rotundus) is promising substitute to Camphor. In absence of Harra (Terminalia chebula) one can use Aonla (Phyllanthus emblica) successfully. I am proud to mention that the healers of Chhattisgarh are using these substitutes successful since generations. Since the formation of Chhattisgarh as new state of India, I am trying my best to convince the authorities about the in depth traditional knowledge of herbs, our healers are having. I personally feel that these healers can play an important and vital role, from herb identification and collection to its marketing and utilization, in the process of establishing Chhattisgarh as the real Herbal State. Unfortunately, I have yet not got success in convincing them. I am giving all details in my articles and hoping that one day every one will be benefited from this in depth traditional knowledge of Chhattisgarh healers. Thank you very much for reading the article. Ethno Medico Forest (EMF) : A new concept from Chhattisgarh, India. Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Since few decades, due to increasing demand of timber the forests of Chhattisgarh are decreasing. The increasing population pressure and urbanization are also responsible factors. This decrease in forest cover is resulting in decreasing population of associated species and in this way, many herbs are becoming endangered. By travelling Raipur, the capital of Chhattisgarh, to Jagdalpur, you can clearly understand what the human beings have done with the forests. It is very hard to find natural forest in this 300 (plus) kms. Long way, except in few patches. In most of the places, the forest cover has converted into wasteland and the wherever greenery is there, it is due to commercial plantation of high value trees, planted by the state forest department. For common person and also for tourists, these commercial plantations are like forest but for the traditional healers and natives of the state, it is just harmful act and wastage of forest resources. The trees are planted in rows with the application of chemical and natural inputs. The purpose of this commercial plantation is to grow or cultivate the economically important tree species through proper management. The natural flora growing with the trees considered as weed and to remove it the caretakers conduct weeding operation and apply weedicides. The trees are also protected from insects and diseases. All these cultivation activities occur mostly in area where at present no forest is present but in surrounding areas the natural forests are still there. The presence of man made forest in between the natural forests disturbs the natural balance in natural forests to great extent. I have seen the man made forests in almost every corner of Chhattisgarh. These plantations are based on the principle of monoculture, i.e. promotion of only one species, a real curse for native flora and fauna. In many areas, I have seen the commercial plantation of exotic tree species like Eucalyptus. Although these commercial plantations are economically viable, give good returns and look nice but as herb expert, I feel very odd to see the level of greediness of human beings. At different forums, I opposed these man made forests (i.e. commercial plantations) but got reply that it is adopted from different countries. I am not aware that what strategy, the other planners are adopting but through my ethno botanical surveys in different parts of Chhattisgarh, I have got the shocking information that the natives and traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are not happy with this monoculture. After detailed discussion with them, we decided to develop advanced and improved version of man made forest in different parts of Chhattisgarh. I have given it a name Ethno Medico Forest (EMF). To develop EMF in any particular areas first of all we conduct detailed surveys in nearby forest having same flora and fauna and try to study the unique arrangements of the nature. With the help of the natives and traditional healers, we list out the common herbs present in surrounding areas. After preparing exhaustive list of herbs, we collect different propagation parts from these herbs in different season and just dump it randomly in selected area, chosen for the development of EMF. We have specific method of planting. We simply take the herb or propagation parts and stand in any part of the EMF area and without seeing back, just throw away the material. After this throw, we never see it (at least up to ten years). One by one we throw all herbs in EMF area. No dug out or seed bed is used. We do not use any input to support initial plant growth. We believe that our job is to just dump the original material in EMF area and the rest will be done by the Mother Nature. We have observed that in two years, the area starts shaping into natural forest. We do not prepare any routine path to go inside the forest. During initial years, many species became dominant but we ignored this. We have observed that in four to five years due to nature's rule the EMF develop like the forests of surrounding area. We do not allow any type of human activities inside the EMF area. As result, in many terms the EMF is far better than the surrounding forest areas where human activities are common. We have also observed that by leaving the forest in its own shoulders, it becomes more resistant and do not permit the entry of any exotic species. In our EMF, we have dumped obnoxious weeds Parthenium and Lantana but the native species repelled (?) Away these exotic species. These weeds are headache in surrounding natural forests. The traditional healers truly describe the reason. According to them, our activities and encroachment inside the forests have reduced the defensive power of these forests and that is why they are not enough strong to restrict the entry of new exotic species. We know that it is not possible to plant or establish the new forests according to nature's law but through our experience we are now confident that every little ecofriendly effort is supported by Mother Natu whole heartedly. The EMFs are one of the promising examples. We have tried this concept in many parts. Our EMF project of Kondagaon is one of the successful projects. This is new concept and in India, it is general tendency that in spite of good indigenous technology, the experts believe that foreign technology is more promising and this is the reason, the forest officials have yet not started work an this novel concept. I searched the reference literatures and internet, but yet not got related information or work from any corner of the world. This is good surprise for us that the traditional healers are glad with this project and they are collecting herbs from EMF area. It is a matter of scientific investigation to evaluate the medicinal properties of herbs from EMF and natural forest areas and to find out the significant difference but the healers prefer herbs from EMF area. As I am not the expert of fauna, we only introduce native flora in EMF area and this is our observation that the associated fauna came in the EMF area spontaneously. In man made forests, the caretakers plant spiny and thorny herbs in fence in order to save their forest from invaders but in EMF we never use any kind of fence. This is the reason that in many areas it acts as corridor between two natural forests. If any animal damages any valuable species, we simply ignore this, considering it is according to nature's law. Our EMFs are in very small areas. We want to implement this concept in thousands acres in order to get real effect. our oldest EMF is only eight years old. I want to study it up to 100 years at least. (Unfortunately it is not possible for me). The EMFs are best place to understand the nature's law, selection and arrangement. When we enter EMF area, we feel odd to walk on the small herbs as they are parts of EMF. In many parts due to absence direct approach, we miss to reach there, to see the nature's experiments. This article is first written document on this novel concept developed after taking the view and suggestions of the traditional healers and natives. I would like to request the experts and researchers to think on this aspect and try to develop EMFs in their areas. We are confident that the EMFs are far better than the commercial plantations in terms of conservation of natural bio-diversity. Plantations are essential, but it must be done; far from the natural forests. Every time I EMF, I gain new experience. I will write more on these EMFs in my future articles year by year. Thank you very much for reading the article. Medicinal insect Termites (Diar or Deemak) : Traditional Medicinal Knowledge, Existing and Possible uses Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Termites (Termitidae, Isoptera) are considered as obnoxious pest around the world. Every year we use many tons of agrochemicals to manage these insects with little success. In Chhattisgarh, India, different species of Termites are present and creating problems for natives. Through the ethno botanical surveys in different parts of the state, I have collected much valuable information on uses of Termites and its mounds (Bimbhora or Bambi). I always write in my articles that everything present on the earth is useful to human beings and this is our ignorance that we have kept many useful things in the category of harmful things. Termites are present in almost every corner of Chhattisgarh and in abundance. The natives and traditional healers of Chhattisgarh use these Termites both as medicine and food. You will be surprised to know that the natives collect the termite queen and sell it in local markets at fair rates. The farmers take hard work from Termites. I am describing all interesting traditional information in present article. This is first written document on traditional medicinal and other uses of Termites in Chhattisgarh, India. I have noted that few species like Microtermes sp: Odontotermes sp; Coptotermes sp. And Trinervitermes sp. Are dominant species in Chhattisgarh. Many other unidentified species are also present in Chhattisgarh. The references on these species are not available. The reference literatures related to Entomology describe about Termites as 'The winged Termites, the sexual forms emerge out of the termitaria and take to flight. When they alight again their wings are shed and in pairs enter suitable substrata. Seven to ten days after the swarming the female lays the first batch of eggs numbering 100 to 130. These eggs hatch in 40 to 42 days. The female termite then enlarges itself to form the queen in due course. The queen can give up to 30,000 eggs per days." For effective management of Termites in specific area it is essential to kill the queen. By using Termite queen as medicine and food, the natives and traditional healers of Chhattisgarh, keep control on its population in natural conditions. The queen lives in royal chamber deep inside the soil rich in moisture. You will be surprised to know that the rural natives using the queen as medicine and food take no charge from the urban natives to dig the mounds to kill the queen. In urban areas, very few natives are aware of its uses. They are well aware of this fact that by destroying the queen, the problem can be root out forever. As the Termite mounds are free flats for the venomous snakes, generally the urban natives hesitate to destroy it. The rural natives coming in city for employment agree to do this job very happily. Instead of killing the queen, they take it with them as gift. I have mentioned in my previous articles that the natives and healers prepare special dish using Termite queen for newly wed couples. The methods of preparation vary from place to place but it is used for maintaining sexual health and to get energy. This is a matter of scientific investigation that when the natives use it as food, it provides what types of minerals or vitamins. Unfortunately, we have yet not started work on this important aspect. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh use the queen in combination with common herbs in treatment of different diseases. I have listed over 550 traditional healers aware of various medicinal uses of Termite queen. The use of Termite as medicine has not been reported in reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India. I am proud to write that the natives and healers are aware of these uses and using it in their regular practice. Its use as medicine is also not reported in Homoeopathy. This is good sign that many enthusiastic young Homoeopaths of Chhattisgarh are trying to prepare a drug from Termite queen. They have submitted a research project for the clinical trials. In southern parts of Chhattisgarh, the soil from termite mound is given in very small quantity to the pregnant woman to assure safe delivery. According to the healers, its use helps in making the complexion of new born, fair. The soil is also used as veterinary medicine, in treatment of many common diseases particularly in Foot and Mouth (F & M) disease. Although these Termites cause great harm to crops but many farmers avoid destroying the mounds. According to them, the rats are bigger problem than the Termites. The presence of Termite mounds, give shelter to venomous snakes, the enemies of rats. In Bagbahera region, the farmers prefer to destroy the mounds. In this area Bhalu (Wild Bear) is a big problem and Termites are favourite food for Bhalu. According to them, the presence of Termite mounds around the fields force the Bhalu to visit the area and after eating Termites, they attack on crops. One interesting observation, I would like to mention here is the farmers want to use the mounds as shelter place of snakes, plant Aloe Vera (Dhikuor) herb on mounds. The presence of Aloe vera repels away the Termites but cause no harm to snakes. In this way, they protect their fields from Termites. Many farmers are growing Badam (Almond) in their home gardens. They are aware that the upper soft portion of Badam fruit is good for the Termites and they cannot eat the inner hard portion beneath which the seeds are present. The farmers keep the Badam fruits near the Termite mound and after removal of soft portion; by the Termites they collect it. When whole fruit is crushed with the help of stone, in majority of cases the seeds splits into many pieces. After the removal of soft portion, there is no chance of seed splits. By this trick, the farmers take the free service from the Termites. The farmers of forest areas choose new land for cultivation by using different methods and indicators. For example the land having natural lation of Charota (Cassia tora) and Gudaria (Sphaeranthus indicus) herbs is considered best for cultivation of cash crop. The land having dense population of Parsa (Butea monosperma) trees is not selected. By observing the height of Termite mound, the farmers select the land for tuber and seed crops. It is common belief in Chhattisgarh that the presence of Koha tree (Terminalia arjuna) and/or Termite Mound in any land, indicators presence of sufficient amount of ground water. When the farmers found both indicates at same land, they never leave it without cultivation. In urban areas, at the time of first monsoon shower, the winged Termites came out and fly around lights. For day or two, it creates great problem to natives by entering in homes and by creating disturbances in driving. Few days back, I experienced the same problem. During visit to rural areas around the capital city Raipur, I observed that the poultry farm owners are taking advantage of this problematic situation (for others). The owners ct the winged Termites using light traps and use it as poultry feed. They informed that the poultry birds are fond of this seasonal dish and for their health it is good. This new observation motivated me to write a separate write on Termites and its possible uses. In the experiments related to Allelopathy, generally we prepare extracts and leachates of different plant parts and apply it on other plants in order to study the effects. Last year, I tried aqueous extract of Termite queen, without any specific objective, for pre-sowing soaking treatment of common medicinal and aromatic crops including Safed Musli (Chlorophytum borivilianum), Sarpgandha (Rauvolfia serpentine), Ratanjot (Jatropha curcas) and Chandrashoor (Lepidium sativum). I got no significant results. I am not unhappy. This year I will try it in different ratio on other crops. With the help of rice growers, we are planning interesting experiment. During dry spell of monsoon rains, in upland rice crop the Termites cause great damage. We are planning to spray the Queens extract on crop and observe the reaction of attacking Termites. We are very excited. The readers of this article have full right to laugh on our planning but we feel that there is no harm to try this in field conditions. I will inform you after completion of the experiments. The use of Termite queen as medicine and food is becoming the thing of past. The young generation is not taking interest. The collection frequencies for Termite queens are decreasing and as result the Termite population is increasing in these areas. After gathering the information on various uses of Termites, I am disturbing it in whole Chhattisgarh. The natives aware of harmful agrochemicals are showing interest in 'Management through Utilization' concept. I am confident that through specific surveys. I can extract and collect more information on the uses of Termites in Chhattisgarh. Thank you very much for reading the article. Some Published Research Notes on Medicinal Herbs and Insects of Chhattisgarh India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved In Chhattisgarh, metallic coloured Tortoise beetle Aspidomorpha miliaris F. (Coleoptera : Chrysomelidae) is a problematic pest of Ipomoea aquatica (popularly known as Karmatta Bhaji) grown for vegetable. In the present study, toxic effects of 20 plant species on Aspidomorpha were studied. Fresh leaves of the plants (Table 1) were collected randomly from fields and allowed to decay in distilled water 1:10 w/v of plant material and water, respectively. After 24 hours, extraction was done and extracts were sprayed on lpomoea aquatica leaves. Five field collected beetles, starved on water for 24 hours, were released into the cage. Beetles were allowed to feed on the leaves for 5 days. At the end of 5th day percentage mortality was recorded. The treatments were replicated thrice and the experiment was repeated twice. In control (no spray) 0% mortality was noted and on the basis of this percentage mortality was calculated. Different leaf extracts produced significant toxic effects on Aspidomorpha. Maximum mortality (45.8%) was noted under Sida lead extract that was at par with mortality produced by Parthenium, Melia and Cassia leaf extracts. (Originally Published in : Insect Environment, Vol. 5(4), January - March 2000 Page - 165 ) New Record of the Leaf Beetle on a weed During rabi season 1993-94 and 1994-95 leaf beetle Chrysolina sp. Nr. Madrasae Jackoby (Chrysomelidae : Coleoptera) caused 60 to 90 percent plant damage to the road side growing weed, Blumea lacera Table : Effects of leaf extracts on Tortoise beetle Plant Extract Mortality (%) 1. Parthenium hysterophorus (w) 37.4 2. Lantana camara (w) 12.3 Calotropis gigantea (w) 8.3 4. Datura stramonium (w) 0 5. Melia azedarach(o) 37.4 6. Cassia tora(w) 37.4 7. Acalypha hispida(o) 33.3 8. Sida acuta(w) 45.8 9. Croton sparsiflorus(w) 0 10. Tephrosia purpurea (w) 18.3 11. Achyranthes aspera (w) 0 12. Bougainvillea glabra(o) 5 13. Juncea ashoka (o) 13.3 14. Thevetia neriifolia(o) 9.1 15. Euphorbia hirta (w) 4.1 16. Calliandra haematocephala (o) 22.4 17. Jasminum sambac (o) 13.3 18. Cynodon dactylon (w) 9.1 19. Polyanthus tuberose (o) 12.4 20. Psidium guajava (f) 9.1 LSD (0.05) 12.4 Note w-Weeds, o-Ornamental, f - Fruit trees DC. (Fam. Asteraceae) locally known as 'Kukronda'. The quantum of defoliation by the beetle ranged from 50 to 70 percent in the observed wasteland and upland fields. The weed is found growing 9 to 11 per M2 in the wasteland and in upland fields the weed population ranged from 3 to 7 per m2, competing with the 'rabi' crops. However, percent reduction in yield due to weed crop competition and boosting in crop yield due to weed defoliation by beetle has not been estimated. The leaf beetle occur wherever its host plant (Blumea lacera) grows in different situations. They are active during night time and they remain hidden in the soil near plants at the depth of 2 to 3 cm during day time. Both the adults and grubs feed voraciously on the foliage leaving behind only the midrib of the leaves. Heavy feeding causes mortality of weeds. The beetle population varied from 4 to 10 grub and adults/plant. The beetles are active during October to March although they are found up to middle of April based on the availability of the host. The weed is available if intermittent rains occur during this period. Humid weather condition favors the faster development of the beetle, while the activity is retarded at temperatures below 10 C. On the basis of the review of literature it appears that there is no record of this defoliating beetle from India. Feeding on the weed, 'Kukronda', Blumea lacera. However, from U.S.A. Huffaker (1964) reported about the destruction of St. John's worts, Hypericum perforatum L. by another species, the Chrysolina quadrigemina. He reported that the weed may die quickly or die during another season of the year. The other species of the beetle, Chrysolina fasruosa Scop. Was found feeding on the road side weeds like Stinging nettle, Urtica Dioica L. and Hemp nettle in Europe (Zahradnik and Chvala, 1989). Therefore, it appears to be the first record of the leaf beetle, Chrysolina sp. Nr. Madrasae Jackoby on Blumea lacera. Preliminary feeding tests, on the species under report were conducted on the crops like Wheat, Mustard, Berseem, Spinach, Amaranthus and weed like Parthenium hysterophorus L., Sphaeranthus indicus L. and Vicia sativa L. showed negative response of the beetles to above hosts. References Huffaker, C. B. 1964, Fundamentals of Biological Weed Control In : Biological Control on Insect Pests and Weeds, P. Debach (ed) roinhold Publ. Co. New York, 638 p. Zahradnik, J. And Chvala, M., 1989, Record of Chrysolina fustuosa Scop. (Chrysomelidae : Coleoptera). In Comprehensive Illustrated Guide to Insects of Britain and Europe by Paul Whalley (ed) Hamlyn Publishing Group 368 p. (Originally Published in : Curr. Res. 25 : 218, 1996) Record of Orange Banded Blister Beetle Zonabris pustulata Thunb. (Coleoptera : Meloidae) on Safed Moosli (Chlorophytum borivilianum L. ) Safed Moosli (Family : Liliaceae) is one of the important medicinal crops of India. In Indian systems of medicine Safed Moosli holds a reputed position. It is widely used as natural sex tonic. In Chhattisgarh, its commercial cultivation started in 1999-2000. In Safed Moosli, as commercial c no major infestation have been reported in India and abroad. A survey was conducted in Safed Moosli fields of different districts of Chhattisgarh. From each field, 100 plants were selected randomly and percentage infestation was noted. In Bilaspur district of Chhattisgarh, heavy infestation (80%) of Orange banded blister beetle Zonabris pustulata Thunb. Was noted. This is the first record of this beetle on Safed Moosli. Average 3- beetles/plant have been observed. Serious infestation of this beetle on more than 32 plants of Chhattisgarh region including Ipomoea, Datura, Lantana and Hibiscus have been observed. These beetles were found eating the flowers of Safed Moosli. For commercial breeding programme formation of seeds in an essential process, thus these beetles are causing serious damage. In farmer's fields where Safed Moosli is propagated from fleshy roots, beetles are not a problem. (Originally Published in : Insect Environment, Vol. 6(3), October December 2000 Page -138) Traditional Medicinal knowledge about Shilajit or Shilajeet in Chhattisgarh, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Shilajeet or Shilajit (Mineral Pitch in English) is a herbo-mineral drug ejected out of fissures in iron rich rocks, during hot weather. According to the reference literatures related to Mineralogy, Shilajit is oxygenated hydrocarbon of different types, Amorphous is nature G=1-1.8, lusture. Is that of Black Pitch, Melting point 90-1000C. It gives bright flame when burnt. It is soluble in turpentine. It is a product of high degree of coalification and grade into Kerogen shale and finally petroleum. It is fluidized and transformed into liquid product rich in humic acid due to vegetal matter derived from roots. Naturally it occurs in regions of coalification dominated by luxuriant vegetation like Himalaya region of India. According to these reference literatures, Shilajit not found in Chhattisgarh. Last week when I met a traditional healer of Bastar region claiming that in Raoghat region, he has observed Shilajit like material, I got surprised. Shilajit is a rare drug in nature and this is the reason it is high value drug. In ancient Indian literatures related to different systems of medicine in India, Shilajit holds a reputed position. According to these literatures, every disease on this earth can be treated successfully with the help of Shilajit. It is also used as aphrodisiac. Its anti-ageing properties have also been reported. In India, it is collected from Himalayan range. Many herb collectors claim that in different parts of India other than Himalaya, it is present naturally but the experts are not agree with them. It is considered as rich man's drug. For poor, in the name of Shilajit many false material are available and due to lack of information regarding correct identification, the poor are using false materials with great loss to their health's. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are well aware of medicinal properties and uses of Shilajit. I have listed out over 3000 traditional healers using Shilajit for their patients. Unfortunately they are not aware of Chhattisgarh version of Shilajit. The healers informed me that most of the natives believe that Shilajit is only an aphrodisiac and use in different herbal combinations recommended as sex tonic. This is wrong. In Chhattisgarh, many natural herbs having more promising aphrodisiac properties than Shilajit are available. Its popularity as sex tonic and aphrodisiac have created confusions among the natives. Many senior citizens interested in using Shilajit are hesitating to take Shilajit because of these wrong information's. The healers further informed me that one can use it for general health and to make the body enough resistant to fight from diseases life long. It is Ramban (The Panacea). They told me that the wonder drug has reached to wrong persons i.e. pseudo healers and that is why they are cheating the common natives. For the first time I got information on the use of Shilajit from the well known saint of Amarkantak region Barfani Baba. Few years back, I visited Amarkantak region with Shri D.S. Parihar, The king of Nagod, in search of herbs and also to meet his guru Barfani Baba and other traditional healers. During our stay at his Ashram I got valuable information on identification and use of Shilajit. There are several methods to identify the true Shilajit, honorable Baba told us. The true Shilajit smells like cow urine (Go-Mutra). When it is kept on fire, it produces no fumes. When burnt, it gives bright flame. It is soluble in cow milk. After coming back from Amarkantak, these methods help me a lot in identification of true Shilajit collected from different parts of India. The suppliers of false Shilajit are aware that its smell must be like the cow urine. To fool the buyers they dip the false material in cow-urine, but in front of experts, it is impossible for them to pass all other tests. This is good sign that the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are aware of all these practical testing methods. This information is essential for them because they are dependent on supplier for the collection and use of Shilajit. Honorable Barfani Baba also informed us about the method used to purify the Shilajit collected from natural conditions. Although many healers and Pharmaceutical companies use it without purifying it but Baba warned that it can cause side effects, if it is used impure. For purification, it is dissolved in cow milk. When the dust particles settle in bottom, the solution is filtered in other vessel with the help of muslin cloth. After filtrations, the solution is kept under the sun and by drying milk, pure Shilajit is collected and used in treatment. In ancient literatures, two types of drying are mentioned. First sun drying and second drying by the use of fire. Honorable Barfani Baba informed that the first one in slow process but one must prefer it, because in fire drying, many properties get lost. I am feeling sad to write that most of the natives of Chhattisgarh use Shilajit without taking consultation from the traditional healers. According to honorable Barfani Baba, Shilajit must be under supervision of healers or experts. The traditional healers are aware up to how long it should be given and at what doses? In general, the healers suggest the users to take more and more cow milk during use period of Shilajit. As it is soluble in milk, inside the body the intake of milk helps in proper utilization. Spicy and heavy food are strictly prohibited. The healers are aware that any herb having the capacity to break Kidney stones (Renal Calculi), if given, during the use period, it will also try to dissolve the Shilajit and as result the Shilajit will come out from the body. This is the reason, the proper guidance of healers is necessary. I have seen many Shilajit based formulations available in market but unfortunately, these instructions and precautions are not mentioned in the packets. In ancient Indian literatures especially in Charak Samhita it is mentioned that Kulthi (Dolichos biflorus) should not be taken during the use of Shilajit, Kulthi is well known herb used in treatment of Renal Calculi. Through my ethno botanical surveys I am trying hard to list out different Shilajit based formulations prepared and used by the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh. I will write these information in my future articles. Thank you very much for reading the article. The search for best cooking oil in Chhattisgarh, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Many times I get confused whether to believe on Modern scientific information or traditional medicinal knowledge. Influenced by the Modern scientific information since last year I was using Kusum oil as cooking oil. The modern literatures say that the oil of Kusum is as good as Sunflower having enough amount of linoleic acid (70 %) which is very useful for the patients suffering from heart disease. The unsaturated fatty acids of Kusum lower the serum cholesterol. I am not a heart patient but as precautionary measure, I was using it as cooking oil as promising substitute to Phalli (Groundnut) and Sarson (Mustard) oil. Kusum also known as Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius), Barra, Kardi etc. is popular oilseed crop in Chhattisgarh. The crop is mainly cultivated for its seeds which yields a good quality oil, though at one time it used to be grown for extraction of a dye from its flower. The seeds contain 24-36 percent oil. The cold pressed oil is golden yellow and is largely used for cooking purposes and also for soap making. Before explaining its impact on human health, I am describing its botany, I have noted from reference literatures. Kusum is highly branched, herbaceous, thistle like annual plant having height upto 150 cm. The stems branch prolifically near the top, thick at the base and tapering with height. The branched stems bear spirally arranged leaves. Leaves sessile, dark green with pronounced mid rib. Leaves toothed at margins with short spines scattered along the margins. Each branch terminates in a typical head type of inflorescence. Flowers brilliant yellow to orange-red in colours containing 20 to 100 individual florets, each of which produces a seed. Fruit smooth, shiny white achene's, angular, nearly wedge shaped less than 1.5 cm in length. As medicine, leaves, flowers, seeds and oil are used. In India, many companies are engaged in extraction and marketing of Kusum oil. It is promoted specially as healthy oil for whole family and a boon for heart patients. Last month when I was engaged in my ethno botanical surveys in Chhattisgarh Plains, to list out the traditional medicinal uses of common weeds of major oil seed crops, accidentally I got information on harmful effects of using Kusum oil as cooking oil. According to the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh, the Kusum oil must not be used as cooking oil. Its regular uses cause many long term harmful effects to human body. They further informed me that the nature of oil is very hot and its regular se produces many serious troubles and decreases the resistant of body. They showed ignorance to modern research findings. Also expressed surprise that how the modern doctors are recommending it to common person specially to children. That time I was using the Kusum oil as cooking oil. This was very shocking information for me. I decided to search the literatures and also to ask more healers about this oil. When I contacted the other healers, they supported the healers about this, said that normal Chhattisgarh native never use this oil as cooking oil because from generations they are aware of its horrible effects. Later when I searched the ancient literatures related to different systems of medicine, many medicinal properties and uses of Kusum oil have been mentioned. According to Ayurveda, the oil is indigestible, heating, causes burning sensation and depilatory. According to Unani system of medicine, the oil is tonic, strengthening, cures liver and joint-pains. Its use is recommended in special cases under the supervision of experts. Its use as cooking oil is not supported by these systems of medicine. In Chhattisgarh the natives use this oil externally in treatment of skin troubles. I am in dilemma, much confused and needing scientific explanation. Thousands of natives in India are using Kusum oil and unfortunately, they are not aware of its harmful effects on health. Before knowing this fact, I was also one of the promoters of Kusum oil as cooking oil. My interest related to ethno botanical surveys has saved my life. I personally feel that there is a strong need to conduct the detailed study to find out why the healers are against its use as cooking oil and also if the healers are correct, there is a need for immediate action to stop the sell of Kusum oil based products around the world. Like Kusum oil, the oil extracted from Rice bran is getting popularity in Chhattisgarh and other parts of India. As you know, Chhattisgarh is known as Rice bowl of India. Rice is main crop in this state and Chhattisgarh is known for its unique rice varieties around the world. It is one of places from where the rice has originated. I have written a lot on traditional medicinal knowledge about medicinal rice varieties in Chhattisgarh. The natives and traditional healers of this state are living with rice and using it as food and medicine since generations. This is really surprising that no one use the Rice bran oil as cooking oil. Kodha Ka Tel (Rice bran oil) for cooking purpose, the healers show ignorance towards this new use. hese are the companies outside the Chhattisgarh promoting Rice bran oil like Kusum oil and recommending it to the Indian families. Due to lack of information the natives are in confusion. I have shown samples of Rice bran oil to the healers. They assured me to test its medicinal properties and uses. The healers show less interest in this oil because according to them if it has many beneficial effect on human health, why their fore fathers have not used it or recommend it. They are very true. They use all parts of rice for different purposes, except the seed oil. Rice bran is used as cattle and poultry feed in Chhattisgarh. This is a matter of investigation whether Rice bran oil is beneficial or harmful to human health. The healers have no answer, also in reference literature nothing has been written on this new oil. As mentioned earlier, the natives of Chhattisgarh use Groundnut, Sunflower, and Mustard oil as cooking oil commonly. All these crops are under cultivation in Chhattisgarh. The supporters of Kusum and Rice bran oil, describe the demerits of these oils and blame these oils as the cause of obesity and heart troubles. Til (Sesamum oil) is also used as cooking oil in Chhattisgarh. In ancient literatures related to different systems of medicine in India, Til oil is considered as best cooking oil. According to these literatures, Til oil is strengthening and cures dry cough, asthma, lung diseases, syphilitic ulcers, inflammations etc. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are also in favour of using Til as healthy cooking oil. Til is under cultivation as oil seed crop in Chhattisgarh. For details regarding botany, please read previous article on Til. Til is usually rich in oil (50%) and protein (18-20%).The reference literatures say that it is an important cooking oil in South India. It is considered as poor man's substitute for 'ghee'. The healers of Chhattisgarh informed me that many natives make complaints that using Til oil as cooking oil is very costly as compared to other cooking oil available in market, hence it can be used only for patients not for all family members. The healers try to solve their problems. According to the healers, basically natives use many times more oil than required. There is a need to minimize the quantity of cooking oil. If the natives get habitual to less use of cooking oil, then no longer the Til oil remains costly for them. I am agree with the healers. Now I am using good oil in less quantity. Although in case of traditional knowledge, it is hard to explain it scientifically but I personally feel the traditional knowledge is perfect knowledge and there is a need to establish the science of this knowledge. Since decades, we are getting controversial reports on use of wine and tea. Some reports say it is good for health and the very next report say it can cause dreaded diseases. In traditional knowledge, this type of confusion is not present at least. Thank you very much for reading for article. Is there any possibility to save the Sal-borer infested forests of Chhattisgarh, India? Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved rest of Uttaranchal, a newly formed state of India, is under attack of Sal-borer and causing great damage. Yesterday when I received efrom Ms. Resina Hansda, a forest researcher, having this shocking news, I motivated to write a detailed article explaining the cause of problem and to discuss possible steps that can be taken to protect these valuable forests. In the year 1998, the Sal-borer caused nuisance in dense forests of Madhya Pradesh. And as result, thousands infested trees were cut down in name of stopping further spread of this trouble. Sal is an important tree for us. Before explaining the problem, I am giving details regarding Sal and its importance in Chhattisgarh. According to reference literatures, Sal (Shorea robusta, family Dipterocarpaceae) is a tree having height up to 30 meters. Bark black, furrowed. Young branches, petioles and inflorescence pubescent. Leaves alternate, 8-17.5x5-12.5 cm, ovate or ovate-oblong, apex sub-acuminate, base cordate or round, coriaceous above, pale beneath. Flowers cream coloured in axillary panicles, Fruit ovoid, up to 1.2 cm long crowned with up to 1.2 cm long tapering style remnant. Fruit covered by the bases of accrescent sepals, of which 3 sepals are usually longer (wings). Seeds 7-10 mm long, ovoid, acute. The Sal wood is of high timber value. An oleoresin called Sal dammar (Ral, Guggal, Laldhuna), obtained on tapping the trunk, is used in paints, varnishes and as an incense. It also finds use as plastering medium for walls and roofs and as cementing material for plywood and asbestos sheets. It possess valuable medicinal properties also. Sal leaves are reported to be used for bidi-making and for preparing platters and cup like articles for serving food. Saldammar on distillation gives 'Chua Oil', that is employed in perfumery and for flavouring chewing and smoking tobacco. Sal butter, extracted from seeds, is used as illuminant and for cooking. The flora of Madhya Pradesh (Vol-I) published by Botanical Survey of India, Kolkata, India describes in details about Tropical moist mixed deciduous forests, moist peninsular Sal forests, Terminalia alata forests, secondary moist mixed deciduous forests and moist Sal savannah. The Sal forests of Chhattisgarh are well known around the world. Locally this tree wn as Sarai and Sargi. In Chhattisgarh there are many villages and places having the name based on this herb like Saraipali. In definite cycle, these forests come under attack of insect name as Sal-borer (Hoplocerambyx spinicornis). This insect destroys the whole tree. During the years of its infestation, it destroys thousands trees. The forest officials divide the infested trees in different categories and the dead trees are cut down. This mass felling cause great harm to natural ecosystem. We have also observed that in the name of infested trees many unaffected trees are also cut as during cutting no-body from non-governmental organizations and other organizations are allowed in the site. When in the year 1997-98, the Sal borer attacked the Sal forests of Madhya Pradesh as eco-journalist and herb expert, I got the opportunity to visit the infested areas of Mandla region and to interact with the forest officers as well as the natives living with these insects since generations. The natives were unhappy by the interference of forest officials in Sal-borer incidence. I always write in my article that the human beings have no right to disturb the Mother Nature's arrangements. The Sal-borer and Sal tree both are from Mother Nature's side and in case of any imbalance, Mother Nature is capable to maintain the equilibrium. As Sal is valuable timber tree, this high demand has made common forest persons greedy and in the name of some diseases and insects, they simply want to cut more and more trees. When I interacted with the natives of Mandla region, after long discussion they informed me that when the natural infestation of exotic weed Lantana camara (locally known as Gotiphool) increases, the infestation of Sal borer also increase. Lantana is well known forest weed and from its introduction in the region, the experts are warning about its rapid spread in Indian conditions, but unfortunately nothing has been done to stop its spread in natural forests. During my visit, the natives showed me another valuable insect Alaus sordidus having the capacity to manage these borer-insects. This insect eats the Sal-borer. This is nature's tool to keep control over Sal-borer population. When I found the presence of Lantana, Sal-borer and Alaus sordidus, in natural forests, a thought came into my mind that there must be some relationship among them. After coming back when I conducted small experiment using Lantana, Sal-borer and friend insect, I got the evidences of relationship. This experiment gave the birth of an hypothesis that the increasing infestation of Lantana causes harmful effect on natural population of Friend insect (in laboratory all extracts and leachates showed harmful effects on Friend insect) and as the population of Friend insect decreases in nature the population and infestation of Sal-borer increases and it results in outbreak of this trouble. Due to lack of financial assistance, I do not extend this study and after publishing a small research note giving this hypothesis I stopped the work, expecting that any forest entomologist would take interest in this important aspect. Unfortunately, I have not seen or heard about any such study. In the above mentioned experiments, when I applied all extracts and leachates of Lantana on Sal-borer, it produced no significant effect on them. I personally feel that there is a need to search new friendly insects and to encourage it by managing trouble causing factors for these insects like increasing infestation of Lantana as weed. Through this article, I would like to request the forest officials of Uttaranchal state where the Sal forests are under heavy attack of Sal-borer to monitor the natural population of friendly insects and also try to search the factor responsible for decrease in its number that has resulted in increased population of Sal-borer. I am not in favour of introducing and releasing the new force of these insects, multiplied in captivity, because this introduction is against the nature and it may result in even big disaster. Although the natives and traditional healers of Sal forest areas are not well educated but they can simply guide the experts in search of friendly insects. I have experienced it in Mandla region. The traditional healers and natives of this region suggested me the unique use of their traditional drums to manage this borer. They disclosed the information that if the drums are played near the borer-infested tree having the borer inside, the specific frequency coming from drums will either kill the borers or force them to leaves the trees. Although this valuable suggestion look like impractical solution but the confidence of these real scientists motivated me to see its practical use. We visited to infested trees with one drum and played it one hour. We got no positive result. We decided to increase the number. Finally we got success with seven drums played for four long hours. When I discussed this unique method to my other expert friends, they suggested that in place of drum, specific electronic device can be developed to produce desirable frequency effectively in less time. In form of concept paper, when I presented this traditional method for the first time, they raised many questions related to practical uses. One of these questions was, how it is possible to approach each and every tree in big forests? For demarcation and identification of infested trees to be cut, they are ready to visit all parts of forests but not for treatment? This is really surprising. I replied to all the questions and most of the experts got convinced with me but the device has yet not been developed. Through this article, I would like to request the forest researchers and experts, specially the entomologists to share their views on this aspect and also if they feel that this traditional method is feasible, please start work on it at your earliest so that these mass felling can be stopped. I am motivating the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh specialized in use of medicinal insects to try this nuisance causing insect as medicine so that in years of heavy infestation it can be used for economic returns. As mentioned earlier, the dead Sal trees are cut down, when I asked one officer what will happen if we will left it as such in forest in hands of mother nature ? He simply replied that you do not know it is valuable timber tree. The quick cut down will give returns to the governmental and in forest; it will take long year for natural decay. The cuttings of trees in thousands, are you aware that what impact it will pose on natural bio-diversity and also on associated species and on the micro-organisms dependent on dyeing trees? He gave no reply. The local newspapers are highlighting one more shocking news that in Chhattisgarh, again the officers have identified some Sal trees having unknown problem and they are waiting for new leaves and if the young leaves will not come, they are planning to cut down these trees. I do not want to blame any one but wish to stop this mass cutting in the name of problems. I am planning to visit this area to learn from the natives and to gather new traditional knowledge. I am confident that the positive approach and systematic research can save these valuable forests effectively. Thank you very much for reading the article. Traditional Medicinal Knowledge about common herbs used in treatment of Nasoor (Old wounds) in Chhattisgarh Plains, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved The farming community of Chhattisgarh are well aware about the use of common wasteland weed Chirchita in treatment of old wounds. The leaves of Chirchita (Achyranthes aspera) are collected and with the help of water, paste is prepared. The cotton is soaked in this paste and applied externally on old wounds. In majority of cases, this simple treatment cures the old wound. The natives also use the leaf juice as styptic in order to stop the bleeding. It is one of the most frequently used herbs used as first aid remedies in Chhattisgarh. The traditional healer of Mudpar village Shri Hanumat Prasad Verma prepares a special herbal oil by using the leaves of Chirchita, Patharia Bhaji (Boerhaavia diffusa), Mehndi (Lawsonia alba), Andi (Ricinus communis), Boir (Ziziphus rotundifolia), Neem (Azadirachta indica), etc. The fresh leaves are mixed in equl proportion and boiled in base oil. Til oil (Sesamum) is used as base oil. When all watery contents evaporate, the oil is collected and stored for future use. The healer uses this oil in treatment of old wounds. He informed that all herbs play important role in this oil and therefore, no herb can be deleted or added in this oil. He is satisfied with the efficacy of oil. In general, the natives of Chhattisgarh try to treat wounds with the help of home remedies and in most of the cases they get success. In case of complications, they consult the traditional healers. The natives living in urban areas initially try antibiotics but when problem persists, they consult the healers or use traditional medicine. The traditional healers informed that the cases having this problem are increasing from past two or three decades. The old wounds indicate the poor resistance of human body. If problem occurs at regular interval then there must be some basic health problem needing enough attention. In general, the healers suggest the natives to give emphasis on blood purification. At the start of rainy season, they suggest the natives to prepare globules (size of Ber fruits) from Neem leaves and take one globule in a day up to one week. This simple use make the body resistant round the year. They warn that seven days means seven days, it should not be taken more than a week. They also suggest to take bath by using herbal decoction and juice. Kadu Pani (please read previous articles) is one of these herbal baths. The healers blame the modern life for the cause of this problem. Now it is a fashion here, that seeing any old wound, the registered practitioners recommend pathological test for diabetes. In Chhattisgarh, many labs are active and engaged in various tests. The healers informed that the reason for old wounds is not always diabetes. They have there own indigenous system of diagnosis and in case of diabetes, they ct special herbs. I have already mentioned in my previous articles that the healers of Chhattisgarh believe that diabetes is curable trouble and at initial stages it can be managed more easily. The fast food culture, is becoming curse for the natives, the healers believe. In present article, I am giving details regarding some herbs used in treatment of the old wounds, I have collected through recent surveys. The rice growers of Chhattisgarh Plains use the web of common spider found in rice fields externally to treat old wounds. The cow feeding on wild grasses is selected and daily morning fresh cow dung is collected. The cakes are prepared and after burning it, ash is collected. This ash is used to dress the old wounds. The natives use the dung in this way. The healers adopt more complicated method. You will be surprised to know that the plant material on which any cow is feeding plays an important role in changing the medicinal properties of milk, dung and urine. The healers still remember that in past, they were using different feed materials specific to different cows. They informed that to get best results from milk, feed cows under self supervision. When cow goes to pasture land for grazing, it eats varieties of herb and produces specific milk, having specific use. But now the pasture lands are shrinking in Chhattisgarh due to illegal encroachment and many exotic species have captured the pasture lands. Now the Chhattisgarh cows are eating weeds like Lantana, Parthenium etc. and no one is aware what wrong effects he is getting while using this milk. In dairies, the owners are using chemical boosters to increase the milk production. The healers simply say that you cannot expect healing properties from common milk. I am not aware about any dairy farm engaged in such identical milk production. In ancient literatures related to different systems of medicine in India, particularly in Charak Samhita, it is clearly mentioned about the medicinal properties of cow milk collected from cattle feeding on Urd (Vigna mungo), or on Ikh (Saccharum officinalis) etc. Through this article, I would like to request the researchers to focus their studies on this important aspect also. So, I was discussing about the use of dung cake ash in treatment of old wounds. The healers of Chhattisgarh prefer only the cows feeding on grasses, the dicots are rejected. According to them, this selection makes the ash so many times more effective. The traditional healers of Durg region use the latex of common herb Gular (Ficus glomerata) externally to heal the old wounds. The leaves of Castor and Mehndi are mixed in equal proportion and juice is extracted. This juice is applied externally on wounds in same manner. The healers of Dhamtari region informed me that at initial stages the leaf juice of many common herbs can be used successfully. Raksi (Abutilon indicum), Sirsa (Albizia sp.), Kaner (Thevetia neriifolia), Patera (Typha sp.) Are among these herbs. The healers of Raipur region, use the Kamal (Lotus) and Bar (Ficus benghalensis) leaves to prepare a special herbal oil. This oil is used in treatment of spreading wounds. In rural areas, the shredded skin of snakes (Kechuli) is collected and burnt. The ash is mixed with the latex of Bar and applied externally on old wounds. This use is not described in reference literatures. I personally feel that there is a need for systematic research to evaluate these herbs in modern context. Many healers accept that many of these formulations are now becoming obsolete as new powerful strains of pathogens are emerging. There is a need for improving these basic formulations with the help of modern science. Thank you very much for reading the article. Some unique herbal formulations used in treatment of Khansi (cough): Result of recent Ethnobotanical surveys conducted in Chhattisgarh, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved The traditional healers of Bastar region use the leaves of wild Banana in treatment of common cough successfully. The wild species of Banana are common in this part of Chhattisgarh. It is known as Ban Kadli in this region. The leaves are collected and after drying converted into ash by burning. The patients are instructed to take the ash with table salt, thrice a day. It is also used as preventive. Through the surveys I got information that the natives are also well aware of this common use. In urban areas the natives use cultivated Banana leaves but according to the traditional healers the cultivated species are less powerful than the wild species. You will be surprised to know that in case of chronic cough the healers suggest the patients to prepare aqueous paste from leaf ash and apply it on anus. This treatment helps in curing the patients in very less time. This use is not reported in reference literatures. I am trying to find out the scientific explanation that how the paste applied on anus helps in curing the trouble? Many of such interesting informations I have collected during my latest surveys. Every time I visit the same villages, I get more and more new informations. Cough is very common problem in Chhattisgarh. Although the allopathic cough syrups have captured the urban markets and natives are using it half heartedly but this is good news that in rural areas the natives are still using common herbs in treatment. In my previous articles, I have written a lot on herbal cigarettes. In treatment of common cough, the traditional healers of Rajnagar region suggest the patients to prepare a special herbal cigarette using dry Pipal (Ficus religiosa) leaves and use it till complete cure. I interviewed many patients using this cigarette. According to them, it is very effective and many of them informed that they are using this cigarette in place of tobacco cigarette, as promising substitute but the traditional healers are not happy with them. They informed me that the overuse of Pipal leaves in fo cigarette can cause many side-effects. It can develop allergy-like symptoms. They are unanimous that the use of any drug should be avoided and if necessary, it should be taken till the cure of disease. It is very wrong to take herb lightly. Its wrong use can take anyone's life also. The well known Unani expert of Jagdalpur region, informed me about the use of crow excreta in treatment of cough. According to him, one can use its aqueous extract successfully. When I informed the traditional healers about this use, they showed ignorance but promised to try it on their patients. Like other parts of Chhattisgarh, in Bastar region also Charota (Cassia tora) is a wasteland plant. The natives informed that it can be used successfully in treatment of common cough. The seeds are crushed into powder and this powder is given to the patients upto one month. The dose varies according to the patient's age and degree of problem. But as other promising and fast action herbs and herbal combinations are available, this use is not very popular. But from documentation point of view, it is an important information. Kuchla (Strychnos nuxvomica) is common tree in this region. It is popularly known as dog-poison. In small quantity the traditional healers of Bastar region, he Kuchla in treatment of common cough. It is roasted in cow ghee and given every morning. It is not given to small children and pregnant women. From the farm workers of Parpa village, I got information on use of wheat seeds in treatment of cough. The method is very simple and effective. One tea-spoonful of wheat seeds is boiled in a glass of water. When one third water (of initial quantity) remains, the solution is collected and common salt is added. This solution should be taken once in a day, upto seven days. I have tried this unique treatment successfully. It is not wrong to declare this use as poor man's formulation. Chhattisgarh is well known for its medicinal curries. The natives informed that they prepare special curry using Munga leaves (Drum stick tree) and its regular use make the body enough resistant to stop the attack of cough and cold. I have tasted it and found it very delicious. The traditional healers confirmed its medicinal properties. The above mentioned traditional uses are not only e but very effective also. The popularity of these formulations in the region confirms this observation. Thank you very much for reading the article. Traditional Medicinal knowledge about common fruits in Chhattisgarh Plains, India : Results of recent surveys conducted around Raipur city Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Although Chhattisgarh is not known for fruit production but the natives plant fruit trees in home gardens and periphery of their crop fields. For the requirement of fruits, the natives living in urban areas are dependent on markets whereas the natives living in rural areas grow the fruits in their home gardens and fulfill their demand. Many of the natives, sell the surplus produce to nearby markets. In general, fruits are consumed for delicious taste. The natives are health conscious and aware of benefits of eating fruits. The natives and traditional healers of Chhattisgarh have rich traditional medicinal knowledge about its use as medicine. Through the Ethnobotanical surveys I collected a lot of valuable information on this aspect. Nimbu (Lemon) is very popular fruit in the state. The natives having the problem of obesity, every morning take Lemon juice with luke water and Shahad (honey). It is common belief that this use helps in reducing the extra fat. Lemon juice with Adrak (Ginger) juice and honey is used internally to get relief from indigestion. Nimbu is considered beneficial for the stomach related diseases. The natives having the problem of indigestion always keep this fruit during travel and in case of problem, use it as first aid remedy. To treat severe toothache, the natives use Laung (Clove). It is powered and filled in hollow teeth in order to reduce the pain. To make this powder more strong, the natives mix few drops of Nimbu juice in powder and use it same manner. The of Nimbu juice in hair and face care are also very popular in Chhattisgarh. The use of Lemon tea is popular among many natives. In place of Lemon, natives add Lemon grass leaves to take same taste in less cost. The natives always have complaint regarding poor fruiting in Lemon tree. To solve this problem, the natives apply rotten fish and snakes near the roots. It is common belief that this application helps in solving the problem. The natives hang Lemon (Nimbu) fruit and few peppers in front of their vehicles and business shops. According to them, its presence helps to away the evil-spirits. I am trying to search the science behind this common faith. In Chhattisgarh, Banana is under cultivation. Natural occurrence of this herb has been also reported. I have written a lot on this herb in my previous articles. The natives use unripen fruit in treatment of Safed Pani (Leucorrhoea). The fruits are collected and dried in shade. After drying powder is prepared and equal quantity of Gud is added. This combination is given with hot milk twice a day till complete relief. The traditional healers have deep faith in this combination. With cow ghee and sugar the traditional healers use the matured fruit in treatment of gonorrhoea. Ananas (Pine apple) is not native to Chhattisgarh. In Northern hilly regions of Chhattisgarh, many agencies are engaged in promotion of its commercial cultivation. The traditional healers of this region are aware of its traditional uses. According to them the regular intake of its fruit juice, flush out any type of Pathri (Renal calculi) effectively. The external use of fruit juice on warts help in its early removal. Jam (Psidium guajava) is also used as medicine in Chhattisgarh. The traditional users use it in treatment of insanity. The two matured fruits are dipped in water whole night and next morning it is given to the patients empty stomach to make their mind cool and healthy. The natives are also aware of this unique use. The traditional healers specialized in treatment of Cancer frequently use Imli fruits (Tamarind) alone or in combination with other herbs. They prepare special drink using Imli fruit and give it to the patients. This drinks also given to reduce the effect of harmful overdose of wines. The patients having the problem of diabetes are advised by the healers to eat more and more matured fruits of Jamun (Chirai Jam) during its season. The healers suggest the pregnant woman to eat Nariyal (Coconut) in order to improve the complexion of new borne. The healers give matured fruits of Papita (Papaya) to patients having the problem of intestinal worms. According to them, its regular use flushes out the worms effectively. The above described informations are collected from the surrounding of Raipur city where urban natives are dominant. The status of knowledge and existing traditional uses, clearly indicate that natives living in urban areas have faith in traditional knowledge and they are using it in their modern life. Thank you very much for reading the article. Traditional Medicinal knowledge about common herbs used in treatment of common Injuries and Sprains in Chhattisgarh Plains, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved In general, to reduce the pain due to common injuries, the natives use cow milk with Haldi powder (Curcuma longa). One teaspoonful of Haldi powder is added in a cup of lukewarm cow milk and patients are advised to take it at night before going to sleep. The patients get relief in very less time effectively. After taking this combination, intake of water is not allowed. The healers informed that intake of water may cause throat problems. The natives also use this combination in other types of body ache. It is considered as promising home remedy for common cough and cold. As there is no problem in taste, the children readily agree to take this home remedy. previous articles, I have written a lot on herbs used as first aid remedy to stop the bleeding and to heal the wounds quickly. I am not repeating all these in this article. Recently, I conducted a small survey to list out the common herbs used in treatment of common injuries and sprains. The details are described below. In my previous article on diabetes, I have mentioned the use of Bija wood piece in treatment of diabetes. The healers also prepare special Herbal Glasses from this herb to regulate the sugar level and to give strength to pancreas. In case of common injuries and sprains, the natives recommend the use of aqueous leachate on affected parts in order to get relief from pain. The traditional healers informed that it can be used both internally and externally. The natives are not aware of its internal use in case of injury. The healers further informed me that both uses cure the patients in less time. Instead of aqueous leachate, many healers are in favour of using aqueous paste to get more desirable effects. The healers of Mungeli region extract the juice of fresh Munga leaves (Moringa oliefera) and mix it in Til oil (Sesamum). This oil is applied in injured part. The patients are advised to sit in sunlight after application of oil. The oil is not prepared by using conventional method, i.e. boiling of fresh leaves in base oil, till all the watery contents get evaporated. The healers informed that one can use the conventional method also but as this simple process is giving good results, there is no need to proceed for complication method. In this special oil, both Munga leaves and Til oil play vital role. Til oil is not used just as carrier. The natives use Til seeds for the same purpose. The Til seeds are boiled in hot water and softened seeds are converted into paste. This paste is applied externally on injured parts. It is a boon for the patients having the problem of sprains. From my Grandfather's diary, I have noted one promising veterinary formulation. In this formulation, common wheat seeds are used with ghee and gud and given to the injured animals internally. According to the traditional healers, one can use this formulation in case of human beings also (but the dose should be cut down, obviously). This formulation is described in the ancient literatures related to different systems of medicine in India. In villages, the natives are still using it. In case of internal injuries, the traditional healers advise the patients to take twenty five fresh leaves of Pipal (Ficus religiosa) with gud upto a week. This use is practiced in morning preferable when stomach is empty. The vegetable growers of Durg region informed that in case of pain, one can eat fresh Baigan (Bhata, Solanum melongena) fruits with sugar. Sugar is added just for taste. Baigan is popular vegetable in Chhattisgarh. In Hi-tech farming of vegetable crops, heavy use of pesticides and chemical inputs is done. So, if you are planning to use Baigan for injury, be sure that it is grown organically, and not collected from the cultivated fields where chemicals have been sprayed. In many parts, the natives apply the fresh juice extracted from Banana stem externally in treatment. The above mentioned uses are still popular in Chhattisgarh. It clearly indicates its effectiveness. In my articles, I have listed over 200 common herbs used alone or in combination with other herbs to treat common injuries. I am expecting more herbs in this small list. Thank you very much for reading the article. Interaction with the herb vendor Shri Babu Singh of North Chhattisgarh, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Few days back, herb vendor Shri Babu Singh fixed his camp near to my home, at the front of Rajkumar College campus in Raipur, the capital city of Chhattisgarh. I got opportunity to interact with him and his team and to gather information on different traditional uses of common herbs found in different parts of Chhattisgarh. He informed that he is from Sarguja region and his family members are engaged in this business since many generations. The female members collect the herbs from forests and male members sell it in different parts of the state. In general, the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh collect the herbs themselves but for exotic herb, they are dependent on herb vendors like Shri Babu Singh. I have observed that these vendors have rich traditional medicinal knowledge about common herbs. It is not wrong to keep these herb vendors in the category of traditional healers. As they travel different parts and interact with different traditional healers, they know more than the average traditional healers. Like healers and collectors, these vendors are also very important for collection of information. I have seen over 250 herbs and different herbal formulations with Shri Babu Singh. After knowing my objectives, he got ready to interact with me. We interacted over 5 hours and shared valuable traditional knowledge. I am describing some of the uses of common herbs, I have noted during discussion with Shri Babu Singh. I informed him about the use of common housefly for hair dyeing and to promote hair growth. He replied that a special oil prepared from the fruits of Bakain (Melia azedarach) gives good results. He described the method. Collect the fruits, boil it in Til oil (Sesamum seed oil) and prepare the oil. Apply this oil gently on spots from where hair has been lost. It is a boon for the patients having the problem of alopecia (Ganja pan). He showed me samples of oil, he has prepared for the patients. According to him, during this use one should avoid the use of soaps and shampoos and also spicy foods. Depending upon the severity of problem, it takes one week to 6 months for hair regrowth. He warned that it should not be used as routine oil. Bakain is a common tree found in almost every corner of Chhattisgarh. For its botany, reported and traditional medicinal uses, I suggest you to read my previous articles. I have found that the vendors keep the herb formulations and herbs used in treatment of sexually transmitted diseases like syphilis and gonorrhoea. The truck drivers, aware of this fact, frequent take the services of these vendors. When we started discussion on this topic, I got information on use of Dikamali (Gardenia lucida). In case of gonorrhoea, to reduce or overcome the problem of burning in urine, Shri Babu Singh suggests the patients to inject special herbal oil in urinary tract. He informed that this oil is prepared by boiling Dikamali in base oil (Til oil is used mostly). He instructed me to take special precaution and never use the oil without filtering it in filter. As it is injected inside the tract, one should be careful and try to take the help from the healers or experts, He was assured with the performance of the oil because he prepares several litres every month and sell it successfully. Dikamali is common tree distributed in ests of Chhattisgarh. To treat initial stage of Bavasir (Piles), he suggested many common and simple treatment. According to him, the leaves and juice of many common herbs if applied externally on Bavasir (Piles), can cure the problem in less time and efficiently. Fudhar (Calotropis gigantea), Aam (Mangifera indica), Chirai Jam (Eugenia sp.) Jangli Gobhi (Launea sp.), Kasaundi (Cassia sophera), Genda or Gonda (Tegetes erectus) etc. are among these promising herbs. He further informed that Aam leaves can be used both internally and externally. I got new entry in the list of Herbal Cigarettes According to him, the Herbal Cigarette prepared from Aam leaves is capable of curing the problem of Bavasir. This was new information for me. Aam leaves can be used in combination with Chirai Jam leaves. Although I have yet not seen its practical use, but I am confident that these herbs can h reducing the intensity of trouble. We shared information on use of medicinal rice. He informed that medicinal rice Bhejri is capable of stopping the vomiting sensation resulted due to overuse of wine. To stop vomiting sensation, he also suggested the use of ash of aerial roots of Bar (Ficus benghalensis). It can be used during the trouble also. He further suggested the use of Pipal bark ash for the same problem, Collect the ash and mix it in water. When ash settle in bottom, drink the water. In treatment of Stye (Saloni), I got information on use of Gorakhmundi, (Sphaeranthus indicus), a common winter weed in Chhattisgarh. To oot out this problem forever the vendor suggests the patients to take Gorakhmundi roots with equal quantity of sugar internally upto fifteen days. For better results it can be used with cow milk also. Shri Babu Singh informed about many other formulations, Fortunately I was aware of these formulations. I have mentioned these in previous articles, hence I am not repeating it here. Like other herb vendors, Shri Babu Singh was also afraid of harassment by local police. He was also worrying that the young generation is not taking interest in this family business. The availability of herbs is decreasing in forests. Now more and more collectors are coming and un-scientific exploitations are in progress. The main thing is that his potential customer i.e. the traditional healers are decreasing in number. All things are going negative but Shri Babu Singh is satisfied that his knowledge and herbs are providing better health to common people specially to poor people, not capable of getting costly modern treatment. He is unaware that how valuable he and his knowledge are for whole world. He refused to take fees from me saying he is happy that at least one person is ready to talk about herbs with him. I have taken his five hours and to prepare video film on him, I promised him to come back next day. Next day when approached to him, there was no camp. The natives informed that local police has warned him to empty the place within a hour for the safely of local residents. There are many Babu Singh in Chhattisgarh. I personally feel that this is our moral responsibility to recognize and honour these great experts. Thank you very much for reading the article. Traditional Medicinal knowledge about Hartal in Chhattisgarh, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved The reference literatures on mineralogy explain 'There is a mention of Manahshila and Haritala in Ayurveda which Indian alchemists describe them as sulphides of Arsenic, Greeks call them aresinkan meaning male or potent substance. Manashila is Realgar (AsS) whereas Haritala or Hartal is Orpiment (As2S3), its properties yellow (lemon yellow color), foliated-flaky, presence of gliding plates, toxic, harmful to skin causing skin burning. After chemical process it (Flow chart - 1) converts into white colour and give garlic fume, poisonous in nature, used as hair remover from skin. In India, it occurs as raw deposit in igneous rock, associated with fluoride. In Chhattisgarh it occurs in Chameli Dongri area of Rajnandgaon." traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are aware of different medicinal properties and uses of Hartal. Unfortunately, they are not aware of its natural occurrence in Chhattisgarh. For Hartal, they are dependent on herb sellers. Through my ethno botanical surveys in different parts of Chhattisgarh I have identified only 30 traditional healers using Hartal as medicine in their daily practice. According to them, as it contains arsenic, it should be used very carefully. If used after purification, it can cure many complicated diseases successfully. In general, the traditional healers avoid informing about its use to anyone. The toxicity is the reason for this secret. Like Shilajit, the healers claim that Hartal can be used as anti-aging drug. It is used in form of ash and in very little quantity. The healers aware of adulteration, take special precaution to identify the genuine material before purchasing. They know several practical methods to identify the genuine Hartal. According to them, the pure Hartal looks like gold. If its give fumes during burning, then it is impure or false Hartal and by using this impure Hartal, one can kill their patients. This is the reason the healers take special precaution. The healers informed me that the nature of Hartal is hot. Basically Hartal is used in treatment of blood impurities, disease of mouth, and respiratory systems. It improves the functioning of sex organs and make the complexion of face fair. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh mainly use Hartal in treatment of Kodh (Leprosy). To eliminate its harmful effects the healers adopt special methods. I am describing two methods. In first method specific amount of Hartal is boiled (mild boiling) in raw juice of Dhikuar (Aloe vera) for two days. After completion of this process, the small globules are prepared. These globules are dipped in the pulp of Sanai (Crotalaria sp.) And put in fire. For burning, they use specific numbers of Kande (dry cow dung cake). After complete burning the substance is collected and stored for future use. In another method, the specific amount of Hartal is kept inside the fruit of Indrayan (Citrullus colocynthis) and allowed to dry. This fruit is burnt using specific number of Kande. The substance is collected and again kept in another fresh Indrayan fruit and same process is repealed. Total 31 Indrayan fruits are used and finally the substance is used to treat leprosy. This substance is also used for different diseases. As mentioned earlier, the healers do not inform about the specific method clearly, the above mentioned description is based on visual observation. The methods are more or less same. I personally feel that there is a need to search and establish the science responsible for this purification process. The healers are following the ods since generations. They simply say that these fruits and herb parts have capacity to destroy the harmful effects of Hartal. Whether other fruits or herbs can be taken? Why 31 times, why not more or less times? What will happen if we repeat it at less than 31 times? They have no scientific explanations. Now this is a responsibility of young researchers to start detailed studies on this aspect. The method very similar to first method is mentioned in reference literatures. I am proud to write that the traditional healers are still using this ancient method successfully. This article is first written document on traditional medicinal knowledge about Hartal in Chhattisgarh. I am planning to present the samples collected from Rajnandgaon region to the specialist healers so that they can test the local material. Thank you very much for reading the article. Traditional medicinal knowledge about common herbs injured due to lightening, in Chhattisgarh, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Every year several trees get injuries from natural lightening in rainy season. The lightening injures the herbs very badly and in general the herbs are considered as died or burnt herbs. In commercial plantations these injured herbs are cut down and used for different purposes. You will be surprised to know that for the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh, these so-called injured herbs, mostly trees are valuable herbs and they use it in treatment of many complicated diseases. Last week , when I was travelling in Bastar region of Chhattisgarh at night when thunder storm was in peak, I saw many healers marking the trees injured from lightening. I stopped in mid way and collected the information on this new aspect. During interaction the traditional healers informed that they use inured herbs in treatment of complicated diseases like cancer, chronic asthma, paralysis etc. that affects the vitality of patients and decrease their natural resistance. They believe that lightening have super energy enough to generate new vigour in patient's body. They feel lucky as soon as they reach to the injured herbs because as the time passes, the herbs start loosing vigour. They consider the herbs most valuable on which lightening occurs twice or thrice, but according to them it is very rare incidence. The healers further informed me that it is not possible to visit all the herbs during thunder storm and in fear their workers also hesitate to visit with them. They still remember that how many of their friends have lost lives in these critical times. In general, the healers visit to specific areas where varieties of herbs grow naturally and wait for lightening. Many times their efforts go waste. As mentioned earlier, the healers collect the freshly injured herbs and keep it with them for future use. They keep it in blue cloth for long use. Many healers use white clothes also. I am trying to search the scientific reason for the use of different coloured cloths, for storing these herbs. According to the healers, they are not aware of exact scientific explanation but they have deep faith in the methods, hey are using since generations. Many healers believe that injured herbs collected within 24 hours also give good results. When I asked the healers of other parts of Chhattisgarh they showed ignorance to this unique use. I am trying my best to collect more information on this new aspect. The healers of Bastar region gave me sad news that the number of the specialists healers is decreasing and with them, the knowledge is also ending. I have done a lot of studies and surveys on herbs but never got this unique information. When I discussed this finding with my expert friends through internet, they showed ignorance and many of them replied, the heat of lightening burn all the tissues immediately and how it is possible to get more medicinal potential from it. Till the correct scientific explanation, it is very hard to face these questions. I have yet not met the patients using the injured herbs or herb parts. As it is very first information. I decided to write a small article immediately, in order to get responses from different experts. In reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India, I have yet not got any related information. I am proud to write about depth traditional knowledge of our healers. In literatures related to Homoeopathy, I got the description of special drug Electricitas (Electricity). The book titled "Key notes and characteristics of the Material Medica with Nosodes' by Dr. H.C. Allen (Pbl. Prakashan Kendra, Lucknow) it is mentioned that "Caspari and his colleagues obtained the symptoms caused by electricity, natural and artificial and were published in Hom. Bibiliot. Every medical man knows the extreme susceptibility of some persons to the electric fluid and the sufferings they experience on the approach of and during, a thunder storm, or the contact of an electric current. The potencies of drug Electricitas are prepared from milk sugar which has been saturated with the current." This can be tried on herbs also in laboratory conditions to evaluate and compare the medicinal properties before and after the treatment. Since my childhood I am worrying from lightening and thunder storm and in every rainy season, I usually avoid to visit forests but this new assignment is motivating me to forget my fear and to visit forests at the time of thunder storm. I am thankful to mother nature for assigning me this great work. This article is first written document on this important traditional knowledge. I will write more in near future, on this aspect. Thank you very much for reading the article. New record of Swarming caterpillar Spodoptera mauritia Boisd. (Lepidoptera; Noctuidae) on Safed Musli (Chlorophytum sp.) In Chhattisgarh, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Spodoptera mauritia is one of the major pest of rice and it is distributed all over India. According to the reference book on Entomology by Dr. M.R.G.K. Nair titled "Insects and mites of crops in India" it is mentioned that " The adult of Spodoptera mauritia is a stout build dark - brown moth 15mm in length and 35mm in wing expanse. Egg laying commences 24 hours after mating. The larva feeds on rice leaves, undergoes six instars and grows to a length of 3.7cm. It feeds during night time and hides in soil in day time. The caterpillar is smooth, pale to dark green in colour and with dull dorsal and dorsal stripes. Pupation takes place in soil in an earthen cell. Out break of this pest are more common on broadcast rice sown in ill - drained soils. It is a sporadic pest. Moths migrate from distant sources when weather is moist, warm and calm. Plants over 20 days old are not attacked. Loss to yield caused by the larval infestation ranges from 10 to 20 percent". From last year, the natives o Bhopalpatnam region of Chhattisgarh are observing heavy infestation of this insect on Safed Musli (Chlorophytum sp.). This year well known traditional healer of the region Shri B. Rao Godbole confirmed this attack. Safed Musli is not under cultivation in this part of Chhattisgarh. Many species of Safed Musli grow naturally in dense forests of Bhopalpatnam region. In general, no insect or disease infest the naturally growing Safed Musli herb. The larva of Spodoptera mauritia is feeding on Safed Musli herb. The larva of Spodoptera mauritia is feeding on Safed Musli leaves and as result, the root size and girth are decreasing. The natives have identified as Rice Swarming Caterpillar and according to them one can see this insect in rice crop easily. The feeding of Spodoptera mauritia on rice leaves has yet not been reported in reference literatures. This article is first written document on this aspect. Shri Godbole sent some live insects with damaged Safed Musli leaves. In my laboratory, I am conducting the detailed study. Its attack on Chlorophytum arundinaceum and Chlorophytum tuberosum is confirmed in initial studies. In captivity, it eats the leaves of cultivated Safed Musli (Chlorophytum borivilianum) voraciously. Although its attack on cultivated Musli is not observed but in future, there is the possibility of Spodoptera infestation on Safed Musli crop. In general the herb present in wild is considered hardy as compared to the herb under cultivation. According to the natives, its infestation is increasing year by year. The traditional healers specialised in use of the insects feeding on medicinal herbs are keeping close view on this nfestation. I am confident that they will never miss the chance to evaluate the medicinal properties of Spodoptera sp. Feeding on Safed Musli. This year, I have warned the Musli growers of Chhattisgarh to take special precaution and in case of attack, inform me immediately. From documentation point of view, this information is very important. I will write more on this aspect after getting details from Bhopalpatnam region and after completion of my experiments. Thank you very much for reading article. Sal Khapri as endangered animal having medicinal uses in Chhattisgarh, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved When the farmers suffering from heavy infestation of Diar (Termites) in crop field ask me that why Termite population is increasing day by day, I reply them explaining many responsible reasons. The decreasing natural population of Sal Khapri is one of the major reasons. Sal Khapri is known as Pangolin or Scaly Ant Eater (Manis species). It eats away the harmful Termites (White ants) from their mound and plays an important role in maintaining its natural population. Sal Khapri is well known animal in Chhattisgarh. The old generation is much aware of its occurrence as now a days, it has became rare and endangered. I have seen it only once accidentally. Basically it is shy animal. The senior traditional healers of Chhattisgarh informed me that every organ of this animal is useful as medicine and this is the main reason for its decreasing population in Chhattisgarh. In tribal belts, the natives eat its flesh with taste. In reference literatures related to different systems of medicine in India, many valuable medicinal properties and uses of Sal Khapri have been described. According to these literatures, its flesh possess aphrodisiac properties. In Hindi it is known as Shalaki or Salak. Its names Shalaki, Salak, Sal Khapri or Scaly Ant Eater are based on its scaly body. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh recommend the Khapri (Scale) of Sal Khapri both internally and externally in treatment of many common diseases. They prepare special mala and ring from this scale and suggest the patients having the problem of gout to wear it. The traditional healers have deep faith in its effectiveness. Its effectiveness is the reason that hundreds of Sal Khapri have been killed in last few decades. Now the healers are worrying of its decreasing population. They informed me that after seeing its decreasing population, they have started recommending other herbal substitutes for treatment of gout and rheumatism. The herb collectors informed that there is a high demand of these scales as medicine in national and international market. It is the demand from outside, in fact posing threat on natural population. Through local Newspaper, we frequently get information about its natural occurrence around the hills of Jabalpur (M.P.), In Chhattisgarh, it occurs naturally in Sal forests and it is not wrong to consider it as an essential component of Sal forest ecosystem. I have visited Sal (Shorea robusta) forests many times but as mentioned early, not observed this animal. Basically it is a burrowing nocturnal animal. Dr. Tej Kumar Shrestha have written in detail about this animal in his famous book "Mammals of Nepal" published in year 1997. According to this book, Salkhapri measures 58 cm head and body and 45 cm tail. It has 18 rows of overlapping scales around the body. It possess both hair and scales, an unusual combination for mammals. "In Nepal, it is also used as medicine. The book describes that Tamangs believe that an extract of the uterus or 'garvaeulo' of the Pangolins safe guard against abortion." The healers of Chhattisgarh are not aware of this use. Few days back, local Newspaper reported that a forest ranger have captured one Sal Khapri from Mahasamund region of Chhattisgarh and as usual, to protect this rare species, the forest department has kept it in cage. In cage, Sal Khapri is not feeling well and stopped food intake. In place of its original food, the workers are supplying fresh meat to it. I personally feel that this is not fair treatment with Sal Khapri and there is a need to release it immediately, in its natural habitat. Every time I see, the scales of Sal Khapri with the herb vendors, I never miss to suggest them, to stop its use and brief them that why it is necessary to conserve this animal? A farmer from Tilda region suggested me to promote its domestication as it is Termite's enemy, it means farmer's friend. The idea is not bad. The proper care through domestication will help the Sal Kapri to increase in number. Sal Khapri is now becoming one more interesting topic on which I wish to conduct detailed surveys in Chhattisgarh. Thank you very much for reading the article. Kutu (Fagopyrum esculentum) as medicinal herb in Chhattisgarh, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Kutu or Buckwheat is a herb native to Central Asia and is under cultivation as minor grain crop in limited pockets of India. In Chhattisgarh, it is under cultivation in Mainpat hills of Northern hilly region. This region is a home of migrated Tibetan families. These Tibetan families use, the flour obtained from grains for making bread and porridge. These families are not aware of its medicinal uses. In the year, 1994 I got opportunity to visit this beautiful part of Chhattisgarh. At that time, for the first time, I saw the Kutu herb. As its cultivation is limited to Mainpat region, the natives and traditional healers of other parts of Chhattisgarh are not aware of its medicinal uses and properties. Botanically, Kutu (Fagopyrum esculentum sun. F. sagittatum) is a stouter herb, leaves mostly larger, 1-3 inches long, stronger-petioled, triangular-ovate manifestly pointed, the basal lobes mostly acute, flowers large, white and fragrant with honey-bearing glands, in short and dense racemes or clusters mostly at or near the summit of the plant, fruit large, with sharp continuous angles and flat or not grooved sides, triangular, mostly bright brown. Flowering and fruiting time April-August and July-October. In general, it grows in moist, cool climate, and on well drained sandy soil. It is propagated through seeds. The Tibetan families use the hulls as fuel, bedding for farm animals and packing. Grains are given as feed. Etymologically Fagopyrum word is originated from Phagein (Greek), to eat and pyro, wheat, referring to the edible seeds. The term Buckwheat is probably a modification of 'beechwheat' from the resemblance of the fruits to beechnuts. The leaves of Kutu are the source of Rutin (syn. Hesperidin, Rutoside, Vitamin P). Chemically, Rutin is a tasteless powder and used to treat capillary bleeding along with increased capillary fragility and hence it is useful in treatment of retinal haemorrhages. Rutin, makes it potential medicinal crop. Considering it as minor grain crop, one of my favorite researchers Dr. M. W. Chitle, tried this crop in Chhattisgarh Plains and found that it can be grown successfully in this hotter parts. Unfortunately, he has not evaluated it in terms of change in Rutin contents. Like Mainpat hills, there are many hills and hilly regions are present in different parts of Chhattisgarh. I personally feel that the promotion of its organic cultivation in these parts will become a boon for the herb growers of Chhattisgarh. Unfortunately, not much has been written on different utility aspects of this herb in Chhattisgarh. Recently, I have presented some fresh herbs of Kutu to the traditional healers want to try it on different patients. After completion of their experiments, I will write more on this specific important herb. Thank you very much for reading the article. Interaction with the organic herb grower Shri Kailash Soni, village Demar, Chhattisgarh, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved When any medicinal tree gets mechanical injury, the farmer Shri Kailash Soni ties red coloured cloth around the injured part. According to him, this treatment helps the injured tree to regain its vitality. When he observes any diseased or unhealthy herb, he simply cover it with white Muslin (Mulmul) cloth. This covering gives extra warmth and care to the diseased herb and by getting this affection, they get quick recovery from illness. Like the great Indian scientist Dr. Jagdish Chand Bose, who have proved that plants are also living creatures, like ourselves, Shri Soni believes that by giving extra love, we can help the herbs to show best performance. I am fortunate that I got chance to meet and interact with such dedicated farmer Shri Kailash Soni. Shri Soni is well known Mango grower of Dhamtari region. He has planted 16 different varieties of Mango in orchard and the great thing is that his farm is totally organic. He is conducting many in depth research to get good quantity as well as quality of farm produce with the help of this research. He has developed many herbal solutions used as nutrient supplement and as insect repellent. 'Amrit Pani' is one of these herbal solutions. To prepare this solution, he mixes equal quantity of Ghee and Shahad (Honey) and add common herbs found as wasteland plant like Chunchunia (Oxalis corniculata), Charota (Cassia tora) etc. This solution is used for seed treatment. According to him, it is promising substitute to chemical fungicides used for seed treatment. He used this solution in all crops. With the help of cow urine and Neem (Azadirachta indica) leaves, he prepares another solution and sprays it in the interval of ten days. This solution helps in repelling away the insects. According to him, this solution is a boon for the Mango growers. Many times, it is hard to manage Mango hopper through this solution. To overcome this problem and to make the solution more stronger, he adds fresh leaf extract of Fudhar (Calotropis gigantea) in this solution. After adding this extract, the solution becomes enough strong to repel away the hoppers. Amarbel is problematic parasitic weed and attack on many hosts. Shri Soni has discovered and developed many potential uses of this parasitic weed. During rainy season when his cattle get the problems due to stomach disorder, he simply collects the Amarbel (Cuscuta reflexa) and prepare a decoction by boiling it in water. This decoction is given internally to unhealthy cattle to get quick relief. In his farm, he has started dog ding center also. For treatment of different diseases common in dogs, he never calls the doctor. With the help of common weeds, he is able to treat all troubles. During interaction, he informed me that the acid found on body of Chickpea (Chana) herb is enough strong to repel away the insect but when we use chemical inputs for nutrients and pest control, this acid washes away and the herb becomes prone to diseases and insect attack. Chickpea is a popular rabi (winter) season crop in Chhattisgarh and every year it is severely damaged by the notorious insect named Gram pod borer. He claims that as he uses no chemical inputs his Chickpea crop never face the problem of heavy infestation by these pod borer. I am agreed with his philosophy and concept. The agricultural experts recommend many lethal agrochemicals to manage this pest but as year passes, it becomes more and more stronger. Like the other organic growers of Chhattisgarh, he also uses vermicompost in his fields. He uses indigenous earthworms instead of vigrous Italian earthworms popular among other growers . He is capable of fulfilling the demand of vermi-compost in his farm. He is conducting many experiments with Mango trees. When he planted four mango trees in surrounding of a Jam (Guava) tree, one of Ma trees showed surprising response and its fruits taste changed into the taste of Jam. I have tasted this surprise fruit during the visit to his farm. Encouraged by this finding now he is further extending this tree combinations. As Shri Soni's Mango fruits are grown organically, many natives living in nearby urban areas are eager to purchase this pure fruit at very high rates. In general, the natives eat the mango fruits after peeling but in case of these fruits, the natives eat it with skin. The natives response is motivating him to increase the area under organically grown crops. As the area near his village Demar, (Dhamtari) is developing as industrial belt, now he is worrying about the fate of organic herbs in his farm because of heavy atmospheric pollution. This is good sign that Shri Soni is eager to share his experiences with other organic growers of Chhattisgarh. I am feeling lucky and proud to tell the world about his story. Thank you very much for reading this article. Medicinal weed flora of Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) fields in Chhattisgarh (India) region Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia 001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved ABSTRACT Due to non-availability of any information regarding medicinal weed flora of brinjal fields in Chhattisgarh (India) region, a detailed survey was conducted. The survey was done in selected districts, namely, Raipur, Bilaspur, Durg, Bastar, Rajnandgaon and Sarguja. The survey was conducted in kharif and rabi seasons. The survey revealed that in kharif more than 40 weeds infested the brinjal fields and created problem for crops. Out of these 42 weeds, more than 37 weeds were identified as useful weeds. In rabi season, out of 21 problematic weeds, 18 weeds were identified a useful weeds. The survey revealed that there was a tremendous scope of utilizing the useful weeds in brinjal fields for providing additional income to farmers besides the recovery of the cost of handweeding. Key words : Brinjal, medicinal weed flora, Solanum melongena L. Table 2. Existing uses and valuable parts of 10 potential medicinal weeds in brinjal fields of Chhattisgarh cientific name Existing uses Valuable parts Remarks Abutilon indicum In rheumatism bleeding piles and fever Seeds N, I Boerhaavia diffusa Dropsy, migraine, coryza, cough Roots N, I Cyperus sp. In skin, urinary, digestive and reproductive diseases Dried nuts N, I Eclipta alba In skin and digestive diseases, hair nourishment Whole plant N, I Euphorbia hirta In respiratory troubles Whole plant N, I Leucas aspera In worms, rheumatism Whole plant N Oxalis latifolia In skin troubles Whole plant N Phyllanthus niruri In jaundice Whole plant N, I Sida cordata In skin troubles Whole plant N Achyranthes aspera As styptic, antivenom, in diseases of digestive system Whole plant N, I Medicinal weeds having demand in national market. Medicinal weeds having demand in international market. INTRODUCTION Weeds are the plants, which grow where they are not wanted. They grow in the fields where they compete with crops for water, soil nutrients, light and space and thus reduce crop yields. They also harbour insects, pests and micro-organisms. But all weeds are not unwanted plants (Oudhia et al., 1999a). In ancient Indian literatures, it is clearly mentioned that every plant on this earth is useful for human beings, animals and for other plants (Oudhia, 1999). Allelopathic (Oudhia et al., 1996; Oudhia and Tripathi, 1997a, b; Oudhia and Tripathi 1998a), industrial (Oudhia and Tripathi, 1999a, b) and medicinal (Oudhia and Dixit, 1994; Oudhia and Tripathi, 1998b, c; Oudhia et al., 1998b) uses of many common problematic weeds have been reported. Many studies conducted by Department of Agronomy, Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur (India) have revealed that farmers can earn additional income by selling the different valuable parts of useful weeds in national and international drug markets with the help of village level co-operative societies (Oudhia and Tripathi, 1999c). For achieving these targets, the first necessary step is to document the medicinal weed flora of the region in different crops, land situations, etc. In order to identify the existing potential medicinal weed flora of brinjal fields in Chhattisgarh (India) region, a survey was conducted by the Department of Agronomy, Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur (India) during 98. MATERIALS AND METHODS The detailed Ethnobotanical survey was done in whole Chhattisgarh region. The study was conducted in purposively selected districts, namely, Raipur, Bilaspur, Durg, Rajnandgaon, Bastar and Sarguja. From each selected block, a random sample of four villages was taken. A proportionate sample of villagers from each selected village was taken to make the total sample size as 100 respondents. The information was collected with the help of personal interview technique on a well prepared interview schedule. For knowing the medicinal uses of the common weeds in brinjal fields, the help of reference literatures of Ayurved, Homoeopathy, Unani, Allopathy and other systems of medicine was taken. The weeds were collected through intensive visits of the targeted villages at an interval of 15 days. Visual observations both on crop fields and wastelands were made. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Kharif Weeds Heavy weed infestation in brinjal fields was noted in whole Chhattisgarh region. About 42 weeds were identified as problematic weeds in brinjal fields. Out of these 42 problematic weeds, 37 weeds were identified as useful weeds. The medicinal, industrial and allelopathic properties of these 37 weeds have been found well documented in reference literatures (Table 1). The Ethnobotanical survey revealed that the villagers of Chhattisgarh were using more than 16 weeds as medicines for treating their health problems. Many unique uses of these medicinal weeds have been noted during the study. Out of total 42 weeds, 10 weeds were identified as potential weeds which can provide additional income to the farmers. These weeds were : Abutilon indicum, Achyranthes aspera, Boerhaavia diffusa, Cyperus sp., Eclipta alba, Euphorbia hirta, Leucas aspera, Oxalis latifolia, Phyllanthus niruri and Sida cordata (Table 2). The personal communications made with more than 300 national and international drug dealers revealed that these weeds were having heavy demands in national and international drug markets. Rabi Weeds The survey conducted in rabi season revealed that out of 21 problematic weeds in brinjal fields of Chhattisgarh, 18 weeds possessed valuable medicinal properties. Out of these 18 weeds, about eight weeds were found in use by villagers. Out of total 21 weeds, five weeds were identified as potential weeds for national and international drug markets. These weeds were : Chenopodium album, Sphaeranthus indicus, Cyperus rotundus, Melilotus alba/indica and Blumea lacera. The study indicated that there is a tremendous scope of utilizing these useful weeds of brinjal fields in order to provide an additional income to the farmers. The utilization of this so-called unwanted plant cannot only make the field free from weeds but also helps in generating employment opportunities for unemployed rural youths who daily travel long distance (even more than 20 kms) in search of jobs in nearby cities. Harmful effects of agrochemicals particularly weedicides on human and cattle healthy environment and ground r are well proven (Oudhia et al., 1999b). Utilization of useful weeds after uprooting will check the heavy use of weedicides in brinjal fields. Reference Oudhia, P. (1999). Medicinal weed in rice fields of Chhattisgarh (India). Inter. Rice Research Notes 24.1 : 40 Oudhia, P. And Dixit, A. (1994). Weeds in Ambikapur region (Madhya Pradesh) and their traditional use. Weed News 1(2) : 19-21. Oudhia, P., Joshi, B.S. and Kosta, V. K. (1998b). The possibilities of preparing homoeopathic drugs from the obnoxious weeds of Chhattisgarh. Bhartiya Krishi Anusandhan Patrika 13 : 33-38. Oudhia, P., Kolhe, S.S. and Tripathi , R. S. (1996). Allelopathic effect of Datura stramonium L. On rice and common Kharif weed. Oryza 35 : 175 : 77. Oudhia, P. And Tripathi, R. S. (1997). Allelopathic potential of Calotropis gigantea R. Br. World Weeds 4 : 109-19. Oudhia, P. And Tripathi, R. S. (1997b). Germination and seedling vigour of soybean as affected by Allelopathy of Ipomoea carnea Jacq. Legume Res. 20 : 227-29. Oudhia, P. And Trip R. S. (1998a). Allelopathic effects of Parthenium hysterophorus L. on kodo, mustard and problematic weeds. In : Proc. First International conference on Parthenium Management, Vol. II, 6-9 Oct. 1997. UAS, Dharwad pp. 136-39. Oudhia, P. And Tripathi, R. S. (1998b) Medicinal weeds in Kharif crops in the plains of Chhattisgarh. Bhartiya Krishi Anusandhan Patrika 13 : 33-38 Oudhia, P. And Tripathi, R. S. (1998c). The possibilities of utilization of medicinal weeds to increase the income of the farmers In : Abstract, National Seminar on Medicinal Plant Resource Development, 4 Oct., Gujrat government and AADAR, Gandhi Labour Institute, Ahmedabad (India), p 3. Oudhia, P. and Tripathi, R.S. (1999a). Scope of cultivation of important medicinal plants in Chhattisgarh plains. In : Proc National Conference on Health Care and Development of Herbal Medicines, 29-30 Aug, 1997, IGAU, Raipur (India) pp. 215-22 Oudhia, P. ad Tripathi, R.S. (1999b) . Medicinal weeds of Raipur and Durg (Madhya Pradesh) region. In : Pro. tional Conference on Health Care and Development of Herbal Medicines, 29-30 Aug., 1997, IGAU, Raipur (India) pp. 71-78. Oudhia, P. and Tripathi, R.S. (1999c). Medicinal weeds : A boon for the farmers of Chhattisgarh In : Abstract. VII Biennial Conference of Indian Society of Weeds Science, 5-7Feb., BHU Varanasi (India). Pp 152. Oudhia, P., Tripathi, R. S., Puri, S. And Chandel, D. S. (199a). Traditional knowledge about medicinal weeds in Chhattisgarh Vasundhara The Earth 1 : 12-15. Oudhia, P., Tripathi, R. S. And Katiyar, P. (1999b). Weed management through green allelochemicals - An eco-friendly approach towards sustainable agriculture In : Abstract. National Seminar on Chemistry of Environmental Pollution with Special Emphasis on Pesticides, 28-29 Jan., Dept. Of Chemistry, Govt. D. B. Girls P. G. College, Raipur (India). P. 22. (Contd.)