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Glimpses of my research and
ethnomedico surveys focused on medicinal herbs in Chhattisgarh, India
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Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia
© 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights ReservedIntroduction
[see all tables]According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) more than 1 billion people rely on herbal medicines to some extent. The WHO has listed 21,000 plants that have reported medicinal uses around the world. India has a rich medicinal plant flora of some 2500 species. Of these, 2000 to 2300 species are used in traditional medicines while at least 150 species are used commercially on a fairly large scale. India and Brazil are the largest exporters of medicinal plants (Hanfee, 1998). Medicinal plants in India are estimated to be worth Rs. 550 crore per year. India's total turnover of the counter products contribute around Rs. 1,200 crore, ayurvedic ethical formulations contribute the remaining sum-cosmetic industry as well as aroma therapy are two important areas where Indian medicinal plants and their extracts, essential oil can contribute globally. Medicinal and aromatic plants have a high market potential with the world demand of herbal products growing of the rate of 7 percent per annum (Anonymous, 1998). Chhattisgarh, recently formed state of India, is rich in biodiversity (Oudhia et al., 2000). ManY valuable medicinal flora and fauna have been reported from this state. Rice. soybean. arhar, in kharif and Chickpea, linseed and lathyrus in rabi are the common agricultural crops in the region. Chhattisgarh is known as 'Rice bowl of India'. Many medicinal rice varieties have also been reported from this region (Das and Oudhia, 2000)
(Table -1)
A survey conducted by the Department of Agronomy, IGAU, Raipur during 1992-98 have revealed that the local people of Chhattisgarh have rich traditional knowledge about medicinal plants in Chhattisgarh. This survey was conducted in 6 purposively selected districts of Chhattisgarh including Raipur, Bilaspur, Durg, Rajnandgaon, Bastar and Sarguja. The survey revealed that large number of villagers, specially elder villagers, were aware of medicinal potential of not only the common plants but also common insects and birds. This survey also revealed that 50 percent of folk doctors are specialized in treatment of woman troubles whereas 20% in venereal diseases, 15% in bone setting and 7.5% in snake bite (Oudhia et al., 1999a). Due to increasing urbanisation and ndustrialization in Chhattisgarh, farmers specially the younger generations are attracting towards the nearby cities for jobs. They are leaving the villages and traditional agriculture. The result is that the older farmers are available for agriculture. From last decade this problem in becoming a serious problem in Chhattisgarh. A survey conducted by the Department of Agronomy, IGAU, Raipur during 1998-99, titled 'Problems perceived by rural youths working in nearby cities' have revealed that due to rapid industrilization in the region, the rural youths are now shifting from traditional way of earning income (i.e. through agriculture) to earning from nearby developed cities. This survey was done with the help of specially prepared questionaire using 500 respondents. The survey revealed that rural youths daily travel great distances in search of job. Majority of respondents regularly travel more than 16 kms (maximum 30 kms, one side) by bicycle. Majority of respondents (77.2%) were preferred jobs in city because of higher wages.
The survey indicated that the rural youths of Chhattisgarh have become addicted to some narcotics and bad habits after coming in contact of urban environment. All respondents were of opinion that agriculture is a profitable business (if resources are properly utilized) (Oudhia et al., 1999b). Many such studies and surveys' conducted at Chhattisgarh region have clearly suggested that there is a strong need to start and integrated rural development programme at village level in order to create new employment opportunities for rural youths and also to improve the existing crop cultivation practices and to introduce more profitable new crops in the existing cropping systems. In these conditions, medicinal and aromatic plants seems to be a boon for the farmers of Chhattisgarh. Many studies and surveys conducted by Department of Agronomy, IGAU, Raipur have proved that there is a tremendous scope of cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants in the Chhattisgarh. Many natural factors are favourable for cultivation The southern plateau of Chhattisgarh, Bastar is rich in bio-diversity. It is one of the unexplored areas of the world. In world's biodiversity map Bastar holds a significant position. About 300 rare and useful medicinal plants have been reported from this region. In the North Eastern hilly region of Sarguja, the temperature goes very low in winter. In this part of Chhattisgarh, different type of rare plants grow in abundant.
From last two decades due to heavy exploitation of natural medicinal plants, there availability is continuously decreasing (Oudhia and Joshi, 2000). Rauvolfia, Gloriosa, once in abundance, now they have became rare plants in these regions. The availability of Safed moosli is also continuously deceasing in these regions. In order to reduce the tremendous pressure on forests generated due to heavy demand of these plants in national and international markets, cultivation of medicinal plant has became a need of the day. Due to continuous efforts of many environmental agencies like TRAFFIC India, now government is also planning to impose a ban on collection of medicinal plants from its natural habitat. Although a plant collected from the wild -may fetch, three times as a cultivated variety, by strict legal regulations, now farmers are trying to cultivate the medicinal plants. It is a plus point for the farmers of Chhattisgarh that the produce resulted from the cultivation of medicinal plants in crop fields are not much different to produce collected from the forests, this is due to the favourable situation and environment of the Chhattisgarh region. The study conducted by the author with the help of Raipur based non-governmental organisation SOPAM (Society for Parthenium Management) revealed that the differences in alkaloides content of major medicinal plants are negligible when the contents of cultivated and natural products were compared. In Chhattisgarh, many medicinal plants grow as weeds. Many studies conducted by the Department of Agronomy, IGAU, Raipur have revealed that useful weeds specially medicinal weeds are a boon for the farmers. In present discussion equal emphasis is given on medicinal plants found as weeds in crop fields, bunds and wastelands and medicinal plants found in natural forests. In first part details of medicinal weeds and in second part details of forest medicinal plants are discussed.
Medicinal Weeds of Chhattisgarh
[see all tables]Weeds are always considered as unwanted plants. Weeds compete with crops for moisture, light and nutrients and harbour diseases and insects. Since, inception of agriculture, weeds have been recognised as potential pests. Weeds, in general, reduce crop yield by31.5%. For Ayurvedists and Pharmacologists most of the weeds are valuable medicinal plants. It is written in our ancient vedas that every plant on this earth is useful for human beings, crops and animals. It is an ignorance of human beings that they have classified few plants as useful and others as unwanted (Oudhia et al., 1999c). Keeping this thought in mind, an innovative concept was developed by the agricultural scientists that after identifying the traditional and modern uses of different parts of weeds, these so called unwanted plants can be utilized for the benefit of the farmers. As weeds create problems for farmers, weed management is essential part of good crop management. The use of hazardous herbicides is being very popular now-a-days for weed control. Global usage of herbicides account for 43.6%'agrohemicals. Indian share of herbicides among agrochemicals is 13% and there has been a growing demand for herbicides in the last two decades. The growth rate of herbicide production is 24.8%. In many experiments conducted around the world it was found that herbicides are hazardous and dangerous not only for beneficial soil micro organisms and plants but also for ground water, human and animal health. Due to increase in labour cost weed management through popular and ecofriendly method, Hand weeding, is becoming very costly day by day. By utilizing themedicinal weeds after hand weeding and selling it to drug retailors through village level co-operative societies, farmers can recover the cost of hand weeding and also can earn an additional income for their livelihood. Weed in general have the capacity to produce vigorous growth and higher number of viable seeds (Table 2 and 3). Also they are resistant to diseases and insects. These important properties of weeds can be exploited with the help of this innovative concept.
Series of studies and surveys were conducted by Department of Agronomy, IGAU, Raipur to find out the suitability of this 'innovative concept' in context to Chhattisgarh farmers. The results of some important studies and surveys are discussed below.
Medicinal Weed flora of Ambikapur
[see all tables]An ethnobotanical survey was conducted during 1993-94. The survey revealed that 36 weed species of more than 10 families constituted the weed flora of targeted villages. Of these weeds Xanthium strumarium was found most abundant in crop as well as bunds and wasteland. Heavy flushes of Celosia and Ageratum were found in upland. In this survey the ethnobotanical uses of 9 weeds have been collected. These weeds were Achyranthes aspera, Leucas aspera. Cassia tora, Xanthium strumarium, Sida acuta, Cyperus rotundus, Phyllanthus niruri, Scoparia dulcis and Oxalis sp. (Table 4 and 5) (Oudhia and Dixit, 1994).
Medicinal Weed flora in Raipur and Durg Regions
[see all tables]A weed survey was done in 12 villages including Berpeladih, Tarra, Funda, Jamgaon, Bhansuli, Khudmudi, Labhandi, Mathpuraina, Cherikedi, Baroda, Atari and Raipura. The survey was conducted by the Department of Agronomy, IGAU, Raipur during 1995-96. The survey revealed that more than 86 weed species infest the crop fields, bunds and wastelands of these regions. Out of these 87 weed species, more than 50 species possess medicinal values and out of 'these medicinal species, more than 18 species were used by farmers to treat their health problems (Table - 6 and 7). Few weeds like lpomoea aquatica, lpomoea reniformis. Cassia tora etc.
were found already in use as pot herbs (Table - 8). It was also noted that local drug retailors were exporting some weeds and their parts to foreign countries for medicinal and industrial utilization (Table - 9, 10,11 and 25). The survey suggested that by increasing the supply of these medicinal weeds to retailors in processed form, the weed population in fields and 'bunds can be reduced and the cost of manual weeding can be recovered (Oudhia and Tripathi, 1999a).Medicinal Weed Flora Of Bagbahera
[see all tables]A detailed flonstic survey using multi stage random sampling was conducted in Chamra nallah watershed area in rainy season 1999. The survey was conducted under National Watershed Development Project for Rainfed Areas (Department of Land and Water Management, IGAU, Raipur). The targeted villages were Phoolvari, Maulimuda, Kassibahera, Navadih, Basaladabri, Bhadrasi, Bihajhar, Basti Bagbahera, Kalyanpur, Tendukona, Mongrapali, Saraipali, Bhaluchuah, Littiadadar, Khairat, Kulia, Kasekera, Kusmara, Kumharimuda, Bagurpali and Pandarikha. The ltudy revealed that more than 56 weed species infest the wastelands in the region. Out of these 56 weed species, over 28 weed species were found in abundant. These species belong to more than 8 families (Table 12). In this survey, 16 species were identified as potential species that can provide an additional income to the farmers. These weeds include Cassia, Sida, Cyperus rotundus, Thysanolaena, Xanthium, Eclipta, Ocimum, Solanum, Asparagus, Achyranthes. Tephrosia.Euphorhia, Calotropis, Datura and Phyllanthus. Various medicinal, allelopathic (Table - 13) and industrial uses of these weeds are well documented in available literatures. It was also noted that in national and international drug markets, there is a heavy demand of these weeds and there is a tremendous possibilities of utilization of these weeds in order to provide an additional income to the farmers. Asparagus sp., a valuable medicinal plant, was found growing as weed in the region.
Exceptionally high population of this valuable medicinal plant was observed in wastelands of Bhadrasi, Basti Bagbahera and Littiadadar villages. It was noted that many village level drug purchasers (or middlemen) were collecting these valuable weeds at very low rates from villagers. For example, the rate of Gondla (Cyperus sp.), a potential source of an additional income for villagers during free periods in May-June, changes 50 paise to Rs. 1/kg. dried nuts at village level to Rs. 25/kg dried nuts at national market. By selling the Gondla at very low rate farmer families are earning Rs. 1000-1500 per day (on average) up to 3-4 weeks. The survey indicated that villagers can earn even much more if they sell it directly to the national market (Flow-chart-1). Due to lack of information regarding its uses and potential market, villagers are unable to earn much. It was noted that I about 95% villagers were not aware of potential uses of GondIa. They are just collecting this abundant weed from the nallah and selling it to traders in Tendukona village (relatively a big village). According to the traders of Tendukona, they send the nuts of GondIa to Saharanpur and Kannoj (U.P.) where large numbers of perfumery industries are situated. Some traders are selling these nuts to Ayurvedic pharmacies situated in U.P. and Delhi. Generally, the traders of Tendukona prefer to sell the nuts to Bagbahera and Mahasamund market. It reaches to national market from these district places at fairly high rates (Oudhia & Pal. 2000).
Besides, these surveys, crop wise surveys were also conducted in Chhattisgarh. These surveys were conducted by the Department of Agronomy, IGAU, Raipur during 1997-2000 in more than 40 popular crops of Chhattisgarh. Medicinal weed flora of some popular crops are discussed below. These detailed surveys were conducted in Raipur, Bilaspur, Durg, Rajnandgaon, Bastar and Sarguja districts. From each block, random sample of four villages was taken. A proportionate sample of villagers from each selected villages was taken to make the total sample size as 1000 respondents.
Medicinal Weed Flora In Rice Fields
[see all tables]The survey revealed that more than 50 weed species infest the rice fields of Chhattisgarh. Of these, more than 35 species have been reported in ancient Indian literatures as medicinal plants. The survey also showed that Chhattisgarh farmers use more than 25 species of medicinal weeds to solve their health problems. The medicinal uses of some problematic weeds are shown in Table -14 (Oudhia 2000a).
Medicinal Weed Flora In Chickpea Fields
[see all tables]The survey revealed that out of 21 problematic weeds in chickpea fields of Chhattisgarh, 18 were possessing valuable medicinal properties. The medicinal properties of these 18 weeds have been well documented in the literature. Some of the important medicinal properties of these weeds are given in Table - 15. The study revealed that of these 18 medicinal weeds, the villagers were using 9 weeds to treat health problems. Of a total 21 weeds, 5 weeds were identified as having the potential to provide an additional income to the farmers. These weeds were Chenopodium album, Sphaeranthus indicus, Cyperus rotundus, Melilotus alba / indica and Blumea lacera (Oudhia, 1999a).
Medicinal Weed Flora In Groundnut Fields
[see all tables]The survey revealed that out of 42 problematic weeds (belonging to more than 16 families) in groundnut fields of Chhattisgarh, 37 weeds possessed valuable medicinal properties. The medicinal properties of these 37 weed species have been found well documented in the literatures. Details of these medicinal seeds are given in Table-16. It also revealed that of 37 medicinal weeds, the villagers were using more than 16 to treat their health problems. Out of 42 weeds, 10 were identified as having the potential to provide an additional income to farmers. These weeds were Abutilon indicum, Achyranthes aspera, Boerhavia diffusa, Cyperus rotundas. Eclipta alba, Euphorbia hirta, Leucas aspera, Oxalis latifolia, Phyllanthus niruri and Sida cordata. Personal communication made with more than 300 national and international drug having company representatives revealed that these weeds are in heavy demand in national and international drug markets. During the study it was also noted that different graded and processed parts of weeds were more in demand as compared to crude parts. The study also suggested that there is a tremendous
scope for generating employment opportunities at village (Oudhia, 1999b)Beside these, the surveys were conducted in Lathyrus (Oudhia, 2000b), Sesamum (Oudhia et. al., 1999d), Kodo (Oudhia, 2000c), Soybean (Oudhia, 2001) etc. crops (Table-16)
Medicinal Plants Suitable For Cultivation In Chhattisgarh
[see all tables]Although presently not much land is under cultivation of medicinal plants, but increasing interest of farmers shows that in future the area will definately increase. The climatic and edaphic conditions of Chhattisgarh are suitable for cultivation of more than 250 plants but the conditions are most suitable for cultivation of Safed moosli. Aloe, Ratanjot, Ashwagandha, Bach, Sarpagandha. Kalmegh, Kewanch, Satavar etc.Safed moosli is in top position in present list. It is one of the most profitable medicinal crop but it requires very high input too. Let us first discuss about this valuable medicinal plant.
Safed Moosli
[see all tables]Safed moosli belongs to Liliaceae family. The scientific name of Safed Moosli is Chlorophytum borivilianum (Chloros-Green. Phytum-Plant). More than 175 species of Chlorophytum have been reported in the world. In other parts of the world, Chlorophytum is used as ornamental plant. Only in India, it is treated as medicinal plant. Chlorophytum is originated from South Africa and introduced in India accidentally. Total 13 species of Chlorophytum have been reported in India. All these species are totally different in medicinal properties but due to lack of correct information all species are known as Safed Moosli in Indian drug market. In the reputed books of Ayurveda the plant mentioned as Safed Moosli is Chlorophytum borivilianum. Other Indian species of Chlorophytum are C. arundinaceum, C. tuberosum, C.laxum, C. breviscapum etc.Chlorophytum is a perennial plant, in nature, it propagates through its fleshy roots.
These fleshy roots are the only part of economical importance, in natural conditions, it rarely reproduce through sexual reproduction (i.e. through seeds). Its seeds are similar to Onion seeds, black and angular. These seeds are having very low germination percentage. The author has visited the natural habitat of Chlorophytum several times. He has found that in natural condition Chlorophytum prefers the soil having high organic matter. It requires bright sunlight for good growth. Chlorophytum is not new to the tribal of Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Rajasthan. They are using this medicinal plant from centuries. They use the fresh leaves of Chlorophytum as potherb. During his visit to Bastar region of India, and old Adivasi (Hindi word for Tribal) has told the author that ten years ago they were not aware of increasing demand of Chlorophytum in national and iunternational markets. At that time they were giving a kilogram of dried fleshy root in exchange of one Roti (Chapati). Now. They have became aware and claiming very high rates for this forest product. At present, the rate of dried roots of Chlorophytum is between 600 to 1800 Ks. per kilogram (IUS $=48 Rs. approx). The rate of Chlorophytum borivilianum is even in higher side. Because of lack of information, Indian dealers are purchasing C. arundinaceum (inferior one) at the rate of C. borivilianum (superior one ).
Although in India, state governments have banned the direct selling of Safed moosli to the dealers but illegal supply is still on. According to the reports on chemical analysis, dried Chlorophytum contains 42% carbohydrate, 8-9% protein, 3-4 % fibres and 2-17 % saponin. Different research works on Chlorophytum in India and abroad have revealed that the Saponin is actually responsible for the medicinal properties of Chlorophytum. Higher the Saponin content, higher will be the medicinal properties. It is also mentioned in some prominent books of Ayurveda. the quantity of saponin depends upon many factors. Generally the Chlorophytum roots collected from forest are rich in saponin. It was also observed that under cultivation the saponin content goes down. The Chlorophytum roots having higher saponin content are having high demand in international drug market. According to one survey the average foreign demand of Chlorophytum roots is 300-700 tons annually. This heavy demand is creating a problem.
As earlier stated, in nature Chlorophytum is propagated through roots and roots are the useful part. Once the root is harvested from any place, the whole plant dies and reseeding never occurs at that place. A senior forest officer of Bastar informed the author that due to commercial exploitation the availability of Chlorophytum is decreasing and obnoxious weeds like Parthenium and Lantana are taking its place.
Many farmers of Chhattisgarh have started the commercial cultivation of this valuable medicinal plant. (Oudhia. 2000d).Major - constraints identified in cultivation of Safed moosli in Chhattisgarh (Oudhia and Tripathi, 2000a & b)
(1) High cost of planting material and other inputs: Due to high input particularly the high cost of planting material, farmers specially the poor farmers are not adopting this crop for cultivation preferably. Last year the rate of planting material was Rs. 30,000 / quintal. This year it has gone to Ks. 55.000 / quintal. This is due to monopoly of certain seed suppliers. Also. there is a need to regularize the cost of these planting material.
(2) Lack of knowledge about cultivation : Due to lack of technical informations on cultivation of medicinal plants including Safed moosli. farmers are in dilemma. Rich farmers have started experimenting in their own fields but it is not possible for small farmers.
(3) Lack of knowledge about market : Farmers are not aware of proper market of Safed moosli. In Gulf countries , there is a heavy demand of Safed moosli. The rate of moosli varies between Rs. 600-1800 / kg (dry). Due to lack of information most of the farmers are selling it in Rs. 600-700 / kg rate.
(4) Unavailability of HYV : Unavailability of high yielding varieties is also a major constraint . Most of the moosli growers are using the wild collected (Moosli roots collected from nearby forests) as planting material. This planting material is resulting in irregular growth. This is the reason why farmer's product is not fetching good prices in local, national and international markets. In Chhattisgarh, no systematic work has been done. For collection and selection of different locally available Safed moosli species. There is a strong need of establishment of research center of the state in order to help the farmers in constructive ways. Dr. Bordia of Rajasthan Agricultural University. Udaipur have done a lot of work in the field of Safed moosli cultivation. He has developed many improved varieties of moosli for commercial cultivation. There is a need to evaluate the suitability of these varieties in Chhattisgarh. Chhattisgarh fanners are not aware of these varieties.
(5) Increasing infestation of insects and diseases : Initially there is no problem of insect pest and diseases in Safed moosli crop but now from last two three years, many root rotting fungus and tuber eating insects have started attacking on Safed moosli crop. As organically grown Safed moosli fetches very high rates, farmers are not using any synthetic chemicals for pest management. Due to lack of information about ecofriendly way of managing these pests, farmers are unable to save their crops. The cultivation practices of some other important medicinal plants are given in Table-24.
Which Medicinal Crop Should Be Grown?
[see all tables]Generally farmers ask this question. The suitability of any crop for any farmers mainly depend oil 3 major factors. These factors are discussed in brief below.
(1) Type of Land : Type of land farmers are having is one of the major factor. It is true that any plant can grow in any type of soil but it is also true that every plant cannot perform best in every type of soil. So, selection of any crop, mainly depend upon the type of land available for cultivation. It is a general rule that tuber crops or crops having economically important underground parts need well drained sandy loam or sandy soil for development of roots. Similarly, the plants having economically important aerial parts, clay type soils are best for them. For example, for the cultivation of Safed moosli. Aloe and Gloriosa sandy loam to sandy soils are essential whereas for the cultivation of-Jatropha, Mucuna etc. clay type soils are essential. The soil conditions suitable for cultivation of important medicinal plants are given in Table 17. It is always advisable to go for soil test before the cultivation of any crop particularly medicinal crops. Prefer research institution for soil analysis in order to get accurate results. Soils having highland low pH are harmful to medicinal crops and can alter the alkaloid content of plant parts. In Kargiroad (Distt. Bilaspur) one farmer have started the cultivation of Safed moosli in acidic soil (pH 6.0) without any treatments. The acidic condition of soil resulted in poor growth and also reduces the size and weight of the tubers drastically (Oudhia and Tripathi. 2000b).
(2) Availability of basic facilities in farm : The information on availability of basic facilities in farm also help in selection of crops. Farms having well developed irrigation facilities can manage three crops of Safed moosli in a single year. In farms having rainfed situations, it is hard to take a single good crop of moosli. Fencing of farms is also a major problem. If farm is well fenced, farmers can go for any type of crops. If it is opened farm, you have to limit your choice and have to go for the crops that are not preferred by the cattles like Catharanthus., Aloe, Jatropha etc..
(3) Investment capacity : If farmers want to go for highly profitable crops, they have to invest much money in cultivation, for example, the single crop of Safed moosli require atleast 1.5-2.0 lakhs Rs/ha. which is beyond the reach of average hhattisgarh farmers. Presently, there is not a single crop which can give maximum output in minimum input (in terms of money). We have categorised some plants according to the investment capacities of the farmers. (Table-18) (Oudhia and Tripathi. 2000b)
Some Important Tips For The Beginners
[see all tables](1) Select the crop having heavy demand in national and international drug markets: Presently, in national and international drug markets there is a heavy demand of following medicinal plants (in descending order)
(1) Safed moosli
(2) Aloe vera
(3) Jatropha
(4) Catharanthus
(5) Ashwagandha
(6) Sarpagandha
(7) Kalmegh
(8) Mucuna.
Fortunately, the conditions of Chhattisgarh are suitable for cultivation of these plants. As earlier stated, in national and international drug markets there is a heavy demand of locally available weeds also. Farmers can go for the commercial cultivation of common weeds like Jatropha in Chhattisgarh. As a weed Jatropha is performing very well in Chhattisgarh. In Gujarat and Rajasthan. Jatropha is under cultivation in hundreds of acres. By giving the proper fertilizer and with the help of other cultural practices, the commercial cultivation of Jatropha can be done successfully. With the help of existing rates of different medicinal plants in national and international drug markets, farmers can select the crops. National rates of some medicinal plants are given in Table-19, 20, 21, 22 (Oudhia and Tripathi, 1998e).
(2) Go for Organics : In international drug market there is a heavy demand of organically grown products. Although not much work has been done on organic farming of medicinalcrops but with the help of literature on other crops, medicinal crops can be managed successfully. In Bastar, one Safed moosli grower is using aqueous extract of commonly available weeds to manage the pests. He is also using cow urine for the same purpose, in the standing crop of Gloriosa. he sprays the neem oil every week in order to repell away all the insects and diseases. In many parts of India, farmers are using heavy doses of synthetic chemicals in medicinal plants and cheating the exporters that they are not using any agrochemicals. Be aware!! There are well developed laboratories in big cities of India and in abroad. With the help of sophisticated instruments like HPLC, traces of chemicals can easily be detected. As earlier mentioned, the medicinal product from plant growing in nature fetches three times higher price than the cultivated one. If farmers spray the chemicals in cultivated one, its price will go even lower to the organically cultivated one. A study conducted by the author with the help of Raipur based non-overnmental organisation SOPAM have revealed that use of chemicals reduces the saponin content of Safed moosli (Table-23).
(3) Put large area under one crop (Prefer specialized farming) : It is very essential to cultivate the crop in large areas. In national and international drug markets, dealers need at least truck load of product. So. take single crop in at least 10 acres. If it is not possible then adopt co-operative farming or group farming. Form a group of farmers that can take that crop in their fields. After harvest, collect the produce and market this bulk produce through co-operative societies. A farmer of Jhabua district is cultivating Musk dana (Ambrette Seed) in 100 acres with the help of small farmers.
(4) Adopt the best agriculture practices : It is general belief that medicinal crops do notrequire much care. It is not true. Like other commercial crops, medicinal crops also require a lot of attention and best management practices. For package of practices, farmers may contact concerning scientist in nearby research stations. If there is no available information, farmers may write directly to national level research centers like CIMAP (Central Institute for Medicinal and Aromatic Plants), Lucknow etc. If farmers live near the forests where medicinal plants grow in natural condition, they can learn alot from nature's experimentation. By regular visits to its natural habitat they can understand the best conditions require for the growth and development of that particular medicinal plant.
Suggestions for Future Work
[see all tables]Above mentioned results of surveys and studies have clearly revealed that there is a tremendous scope of cultivation of medicinal plants in Chhattisgarh. By adopting the following suggestions that can help the farmers in constructive ways. There is a strong need -
(1) To establish a regional research center for medicinal and aromatic plants in Chhattisgarh.
(2) To provide a technical guidance to the farmers.
(3) To develop cultivation packages for all categories of farmers.
(4) To identify the suitable markets for potential medicinal plants.
(5) To evaluate the suitability of different released varieties in Chhattisgarh and also to start variety development programme in the region according to the local needs.
(6) To conduct a detailed flouristic survey of the state and to document the ethnobotanical knowledge.
(7) To identify the suitable medicinal crops which can be readily fit in existing popular cropping systems.
(8) To increase the participation of local people and non-governmental organisations in this process.
(9) To develop a low input processing methods.
Literatures Cited
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Oudhia. P. and Joshi, B.S. (2000). The decreasing availability of natural medicinal plants in Chhattisgarh : A study. In : Abstract. VI
National Science Conference, Mahatma Gandhi Gramoday Chitrakut Vishwavidyalaya, Chitrakut (India) :18. .
Oudhia P. and Pal. A.R. (2000). Rainy season medicinal weed flora in wastelands of Chamra nallah watershed area. Bagbahera (India). Asian Seminar on Indigenous system of Medicine, Bhartiya Chikitsa Aevam Shodh Sansthan, Rajgir, Nalanda (India) 5-7 Feb:2000.
Oudhia. P. and Tripathi. R.S. (1997). Allelopathic potential of Calotropis gigantea R. Br. World Weeds 4 : 109-119.
Oudhia. P. and Tripathi, R.S. (1998a). Allelopathic potential of Datura stramonium L Crop. Research 16(1) : 37-40.
Oudhia, P. and Tripathi, R.S. (1998b). Allelopathic effects of Calotropis gigantea R. Br. on germination and seedling vigour of linseed. Bhartiya Krishi Anusandhan Patrika. 13(3/4) : 141.144.
Oudhia, P. and Tripathi. R.S. (1998c). Allelopathic potential of lpomoea carnea Jacq. Agril. Biol. Res. 14(3&4) :l-8.
Oudhia. P. and Tripathi. R.S. (1998d). Allelopathic effects of Parthenium hysterophorus L. on kodo, mustard and problematic weeds. Proc. First International Conference on Parthenium Management (Vol-II). UAS. Dharwad (India) 6-8 Oct, 1997:136-139.
Oudhia P. and Tripathi. R.S. (1999a), Medicinal weeds of Raipur and Durg (Madhya Pradesh) region. Proc. National Conference on Health care and development of Herbal Medicines. IGAU. Raipur (India) 29-30 Aug. 1997 : 71-78.
Oudhia, P. and Tripathi, R. S. (1999b). Allelopathic effects of Parthenium hysterophorus, Lantana camara and Ageratum conyzoides on germination and seedling vigour of wheat and problematic rabi weeds. In Abstract : Second World Congress on Allelopathy. Lakehead University. Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada 9-13 Aug. 1999 : 42.
Oudhia, P. and Tripathi, R.S. (1999c). Allelopathic effects of Lantana camara L. on rice. Agric. Sci. digest 19(1) : 43-45.
Oudhia, P. and Tripathi, R. S. (2000a). Problems perceived by Safed moosli (Chlorophytum borivilianum) growers of Chhattisgarh (India) region : A study. National seminar on Frontiers of Research and Development in Medicinal Plants held at CIMAP, Lucknow (India) 16-18 Sept., 2000.
Oudhia, P. and Tripathi, R. S. (2000b). Prospects of cultivation of Medicinal plants in Chhattisgarh , India. Vol. 5 - Crop Improvement, production Technology, Trade and Commerce, SCITECH PUB. USA, 211-236 pp.
Oudhia, P. and Tripathi, R.S. (2000c). Germination of mustard as affected by allelopathy of Datura stramonium. Agric. Sci. Digest (In press).
Oudhia, P. and Tripathi, R.S. (2000d). Allelopathic effects of Beshram (Ipomoea carnea) on germination and seedling vigour of chickpea. In : abstract. VI National Science Conference. Mahatma Gandhi Gramoday Chitrakut Vishwavidyalaya, Chitrakut (India) : 18.
Oudhia P. and Tripathi, R. S. (2000e). Allelopathic effect of Lantana camara L. on germination of kodo (Paspalum scrobiculatum L). Agric. Sci. Digest (In press).
Oudhia P. and Tripathi, R. S. (2000f). Allelopathic effects of Lantana camara L. on germination and seedling vigour of mustard. Bhartiya Krishi Anusandhan Patrika (In press)
Oudhia. P. Kolhe. S.S. and Tripathi. R.S. (1996a). Allelopathic effect of Datura stramonium L. on linseed. Agril. Biol. Res. 12 (1&2) : 12-17.
Oudhia. P. Kolhe. S.S. and Tripathi. R.S. (1996b). Allelopathic effect of Ageratum conyzoides L. on paddy. International Symposium on Rainfed Rice for Sustainable Food Security. CRRI. Cuttack (India) 23-25. Sept. p.95.
Oudhia. P.. Kolhe. S.S. and Tripathi. R.S. (1997a). Allelopathic effect of Calotropis gigantea R. Br.on germination and seedling vigour of chickpea. Legume Research 28 (2): 133-136.
Oudhia. P.. Kolhe. S.S. and Tripathi, R.S. (1997b). Allelopathic effect of White top Parthenium hysterophorus L. on chickpea. Legume Research. 20(2) : 117-120.
Oudhia P. Kolhe, S.S. and Tripathi, R.S. (1997c). Allelopathic effect of Parthenium hysterophorus L. on germination of linseed. Indian J. Plant Physiol. 2(4) : 327-329.
Oudhia, P. Kolhe, S.S. and Tripathi, R.S. (1997d). Allelopathic effect of Blumea lacera L. on wheat. Indian J. Weed Sci. 29(1&2) : 4-7.
Oudhia, P. Kolhe, S.S. and Tripathi, R.S. (1997e). Germination and seedling vigour of mustard as affected by allelopathic of Blumea lacera L. Agric. Sci. Digest 18(3) : 183-186.
Oudhia, P. Kolhe, S.S. and Tripathi, R.S. (1998a). Germination and seedling vigour of chickpea as affected by allelopathy of Datura stramonium L. International Chickpea and Pigeonpea Newsletter 5:22-24
Oudhia. P.. Kolhe. S.S. and Tripathi. R.S. (1998b). Allelopathic effect of Calotropis gigantea R. Br. on wheat. III International Congress on Allelopathy in Ecological Agriculture and Forestry. UAS . Dharwad (India), 18-21 Aug. p. 151.
Oudhia. P. Kolhe, S.S. and Tripathi, R.S. (1998d). Germination and seedling vigour of mustard as affected by allelopathy of Blumea lacera L. Agric. Sci. Digest. 18(3) : 183-186.
Oudhia. P. Kolhe, S.S. and Tripathi, R.S. (1998c). Allelopathic effect of Blumea lacera L. on rice and common kharif weeds. Oryza. 35(2) : 175-177.
Oudhia. P.. Tripathi. R.S. Puri. S. and Chandel, D.S.(1999a). Traditional knowledge about medicinal weeds in Chhattisgarh. Vasundhara The Earth 1(1) : 12-15.
Oudhia, P., Jain B.C. and Tripathi, R.S. (1999b). Problems perceived by rural youths of Chhattisgarh working in nearby cities : A study . 59th Annual Conference of Indian Society of Agricultural Economics. JNKVV. Jabalpur (India), 1-3 Dec : 434-43.
Oudhia. P..Tripathi,R.S. and Katiyar. P. (1999c). Weed management through Green Allelochemicals : An eco friendly approach towards sustainable agriculture. National Seminar on Chemistry of Environmental Pollution with special Emphasis on Pesticides. Govt. DB Girls PG College, Raipur (India) 28-29 Jan. p-22.
Oudhia. P.. Tripathi. R.S.. Chandel. D.S. and Bajpai. R.K. (1999d). Medicinal weed flora in sesamum (Sesamum indicum) fields of Chhattisgarh (India) : A potential source of an additional income for small farmers. In : Abstract, New Millenium Seminar on Medicinal Plant Cultivation : Problems. Packages, Practices and Marketing. Center for Biodiversity and Biotechnology, St. Xavier's College. Tirunelveli (India) 3-5 Feb.. 2000 : 22-23.
Oudhia. P.. Kolhe. S.S. and Tripathi. R.S. (1999e). Germination and seedling vigour of rice var Mahamaya as affected by allelopathy of Datura stramonium L. Crop Research 18(1): 46-49.
Oudhia. P.. Kolhe. S.S. and Tripathi. R.S. (1999f). Negative (stimulatory) allelopathy of Lantana camara L. on linseed var. Kiran.
International Symposium on Microbial Biotechnology for Sustainable Development and Productivity. RDU, Jabalpur (India) 14-16 Nov. p.64.
Oudhia. P.. Tripathi. R.S.. Choubey. N.K. and Lal. B. (2000). Parthenium hysterophorus : A curse for the bio-diversity of Chhattisgarh plains. Crop. Research 19(2) : 221-224.