Everything you need to know about cultivating medicinal plants in India. Learn about how to cultivate:- 1. Daruhaldi 2. Annatto 3. Isapgol 4. Vidang 5. Senna 6. Phyllanthus 7. Guggul 8. Davana 9. Calamus 10. Stevia.
Contents:
- How to Cultivate Daruhaldi?
- How to Cultivate Annatto?
- How to Cultivate Isapgol?
- How to Cultivate Vidang?
- How to Cultivate Senna?
- How to Cultivate Phyllanthus?
- How to Cultivate Guggul?
- How to Cultivate Davana?
- How to Cultivate Calamus?
- How to Cultivate Stevia?
1. How to Cultivate Daruhaldi?
Synonyms:
Darvi, Rasavanti, Berberis, Chitra, Indian burbery.
Source:
This consists of the dried root bark or extract of plant, Berberis aristata DC belonging to family Berberidaceae.
Geographical Source:
It is found in Assam, Bihar and Himalayas and also in Nilgiri Hills.
Cultivation Parameters:
Climatic Conditions:
Climate:
It grows well in temperate climate. It flourishes better under moist and humid climatic conditions. The plant does not tolerate hot climate.
Altitude:
It grows well at higher altitude between 2000 – 3000 metres from sea-level.
Temperature and Humidity:
A range of temperature from 15°C to 30°C appears to be well suited to the plant.
Rainfall:
Well distributed rainfall in the range of 60-75 cm it mainly grows as rainfed crop.
Type of Soil:
It grows on variety of soils, ranging from sandy alluvial loam to red lateritic loam or even dark loam soil is suitable for its growth.
Cultivation Details:
Type of Propagation:
Self-sown seeds are the major propagation source in nature. It can be successfully propagated vegetatively by stem cuttings. The method of raising seedlings on nursery bed and then transplanting can also be practiced.
Time of Cultivation:
Propagation is carried out during spring season.
Total Duration of Crop:
Two years.
Preparation of Land:
The land to be prepared for planting is deep-ploughed twice, and cleared off the weeds and forest growth, then it is supplied with farmyard manure at the rate of 9-10 tonnes per hect. and ploughed again finally leaving pits at 60 x 60 cm spacing.
Propagation by Seeds:
Convenient atmosphere for its germination is in spring season, when the atmosphere is moist and humid.
Vegetatively:
It can be successfully propagated vegetatively by stem cuttings. Nursery beds are raised with proper soil and FYM mixture. The selected stout cuttings are planted at a depth of 15 cm for raising them in nursery. Proper soil moisture is maintained for better rooting. The plants are kept in nursery for 7-8 months and during spring i.e. March-April, the rooted cuttings are transplanted in field at a spacing of 60 x 60 cm followed by light irrigation.
Irrigation:
At regular interval, the transplanted seedlings are irrigated till they establish. Although, berberis is cultivated under rainfed conditions, during dry season, it is supplied with lifesaving irrigation for better yield.
Fertilizers/Manures:
Plants respond well to the application of farm yard manure, applied at the time of ploughing. Application of nitrogenous fertilizer or NPK is preferred, if required, depending upon the requirement of the soil.
Weeding and Thinning:
Due to slow initial plant growth, plantation has to face weed competition during initial stages, which may result in plant growth reduction, hence plantation needs to be kept weed free. Periodical weeding at an interval of 20-30 days keeps weeds under check.
Thinning of plants during initial stages of growth is carried out, which leads to even growth of plants.
Plant – Protection and Pesticides:
It is hardy plant, hence is not affected by disease or pest of any serious nature.
Harvesting:
The plants are ready for harvesting after two years of plantation. The root bark is removed after its maturity. It is cut into small pieces, sun dried and stored in well closed container in dry place.
Chemical Constituents:
Root and wood contain a yellow alkaloid- berberine. Bark is reported to contain two alkaloids, Palmatine chloride and palmline and a berberine chloride mixture. It also contains tetrahydropalmitine, oxyberberine.
Uses:
It mainly possesses anti-inflammatory and antibiotic activity. It is also used as antipyratic, the plant extract is valuable in malarial fever. It is used as purgative in children; also used as blood purifier, tonic and febrifuge.
The plant extract Rasaut is used externally in eye diseases and also for washing piles and swellings.
Rate of Daruhaldi:
Rs. 40-50/kg of bark.
Marketed Products:
Ayurvedic Formulations:
Darvyadikwath, Dashang lep, Gadantak Ras, Mahamanjishthadi kadha, Dravadileha.
Patented Medicines:
Sinol, Tono-liver, Femiplex pills, Kofol pills, COLIBIL-S.
2.
How to Cultivate Annatto?
Introduction:
Annatto dye is a non-toxic natural product, used as colouring agent for various food products. Due to increased demand for natural colour dye, the cultivation of Annatto has gained prominence in recent years.
Synonyms:
Arnotta, Annotta, Shendri.
English- Lipstic pods
Marathi- Shendari
Source:
It consists of dried seeds of a shrub or small plant Bixa orellana belonging to family Bixaceae.
Geographical Source:
It is native of tropical America and West Indies. It is cultivated in Peru, Jamaica, Mexico, Kenya and Brazil. It is naturalised to India and is cultivated in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Orissa, Assam, West Bengal and Maharashtra.
Climatic Conditions:
Climate:
It is a tropical plant, hence requires warm, dry climate. It cannot tolerate wet and foggy climate.
Type of Soil:
It is stout shrub. An average soil with moisture-holding capacity is suitable for its growth, water logging soil or rocky sub-soil should be avoided for cultivation.
Temperature:
Average temperature ranging from 30-35°C is suitable for its growth.
Altitude:
It is grown upto 1500 metres.
Type of Propagation:
It can be propagated well by seeds or vegetatively by using cuttings of stem.
Selection of Seeds:
Annatto seeds, used for sowing should be wisely selected as the yield depends upon their quality. The seeds collected should be healthy and without any injury or damage.
Time of Cultivation:
It is raised in nursery beds prior to transplanting. The best suited period for raising nursery is between April-May, before monsoon. The one year old healthy seedlings are transplanted in field at the onset of monsoon.
Total Duration of Crop:
It is a perennial crop.
Preparation of Land:
The land is ploughed well and levelled; pits of 35 x 35 x 35 cm size at a distance of 3 x 3 metres are prepared and filled with manure, fertilizer and soil.
Raising Nursery Beds:
Seedlings are raised in the nursery beds and then transplanted in the fields. For raising nursery, polythene bags containing mixture of fertilizer, good soil and manure are prepared, seeds are sown in these bags and irrigated regularly. Within 8-10 days, seeds germinate. When they attain height of 1 foot they are transplanted in the main field.
Transplanting:
At the onset of monsoon, in first or second week of June, the seedlings are transplanted, and irrigated lightly, immediately after planting. On an average, 430 seedlings/acre can be planted.
Irrigation:
The plants are irrigated well, so as to ensure their good growth. If possible, drip irrigation is installed, which may help to meet the need of irrigation.
Interculture:
The weeds around the main plant and in the fields are removed whenever they appear. Light digging in the pits after every weeding is carried out.
Plant – Protection and Pesticides:
Since it is a hardy crop, it is rarely attacked by any disease or pest of serious nature.
Prunning:
The plants start flowering in the first or second year after planting. For getting good crop and better yield in subsequent years (as it continues to yield for about 15 to 20 years) the flowers are plucked off during the first and second year.
Flowering and Fruiting:
Generally, the plant flowers in the last week of August and continues till the end of October. Though, the time of flowering differs with the form of species, the plants bearing fruits after 2.5 to 3 years of planting are reported to be of good quality. Within 25 to 30 days flowering, capsules begin to bear on the trees. These capsules mature and dry up in the next 3 to 4 months.
Harvesting:
The dried capsules are harvested when following changes are noticed:
(i) After maturity the fruit capsules make rattling sound.
(ii) At maturity, there is formation of a crack at stigmatic end of capsule.
If the capsules are not harvested at this stage, they burst out and there is heavy loss of seeds.
Collection:
The harvested capsules are collected, packed in gunny bags and kept closed for some days followed by exposure to sunlight. After proper drying the seeds are separated from capsules by beating them with sticks, the seeds are again sun-dried, cleaned and packed in gunny bags.
Yield:
The plants start bearing fruits after three years of plantation and continue to give economic yield until the age of 25 years. On an average, 3 years old plant yields about 1/2 kg of seeds and 1.5 to 2 kg/tree/year thereafter for 20 to 25 years.
The yield of seed from a hectare plantation is around 220 to 230 kg from 2 years old plants and about 500 kg to 900 kg, from three years onwards till 25 years.
Chemical Constituents:
The main constituent of Annatto seeds is bixin, a carotenoid carboxylic acid, responsible for yellow colour and orellin a water soluble yellow colour. It also consists of ishwarene, a tetracyclic sesquiterpene, ellagic acid and three new flavone bisulphates identified in leaves. The roots consist of tomentosic acid.
Uses:
Annatto dye is natural and non-toxic hence, widely used for colouring various edible materials. Dye is also used in floor polishes, shoe polishes and hair oils, in coating tablets, pills and granules. The seeds are used with poultry feed to deepen colour of egg-yolk.
3. How to Cultivate Isapgol?
Introduction:
These are bushes of 30-35 cm in height. The seeds, as well as, husk of seeds, are used in medicine since 18th century. In India, about 10 species of the drug are available.
Synonyms:
Isapghula, Isabgul, Indian psyllium, Flea seeds.
Source:
These are the dried seeds of Plantago ovata, belonging to family Plantaginaceae.
Varieties:
RI – 87, RI – 89, GI – 1, GI – 2, HI – 1, HI – 2, HI-5, MIB-121.
Geographical Source:
The plant is cultivated in Gujarat, Punjab, South Rajasthan and in Maharashtra.
Cultivation Parameters:
Climatic Conditions:
Climate:
It needs cool and dry weather. It is a Rabi crop.
Altitude:
From 1400 to 1800 metres above sea level.
Temperature:
Ranging between 30°C to 35°C.
Rainfall:
The rainfall in the range of 40-60 cm.
Type of Soil; pH of Soil:
It requires loamy soil; well drained with low moisture content. pH ranging between 7.5 to 8.5 is suitable for its growth.
Cultivation Details:
Type of Propagation:
Seeds are propagated by broadcasting method.
Time of Cultivation:
Usually during the month of November.
Total Duration of Crop:
120 days.
Seed Treatment:
Before sowing seeds are treated with any mercurial seed-dresser at rate of 3 gm/kg of seed, to protect from the attack of damping off.
Preparation of Land:
The land is well prepared by two-three ploughings followed by harrowing, field is made free of weeds and clods. About 8-10 tonnes of FYM is mixed into soil at the time of last ploughing. Then, the field is divided into suitable plots of convenient size. The seeds are sown by broadcasting method. Since the size of seeds is very small, they are mixed with sufficient quantity of sand and FYM before sowing.
The seeds are broadcasted in lines at definite spacing, the seeds are lightly swept with a broom so as to cover them with thin layer of soil immediately, followed by light irrigation. Generally, after 7-8 days, the seeds start germinating after sowing. If germination is delayed, it should be stimulated by another watering treatment. About 6-10 kg of seeds are required for a hectare.
Irrigation:
Heavy rains and cloudy weather effect the yield of crop. It requires proper irrigation as the roots are shallow. Irrigation is provided about 7 to 8 times. Generally, after three weeks of sowing, the seeds and thereafter on 50th and 65th days of growth irrigation is provided. Later on, as and when required, irrigation is given at the time when maximum number of spikes shoots up. For good productivity, regular irrigation is required.
Manures/Fertilizers:
Ammonium sulphate is used as fertilizer for the good yield of the crop; about 25 kg of fertilizer is sufficient for a hectare of land. The nitrogenous fertilizers NPK (50: 25: 30) give maximum yield. Application of full dose of phosphorus and potassium alongwith half dose of nitrogen, given as basal dose at time of sowing, and second dose of nitrogen applied as top dressing after one month of sowing give good yield.
Interculture:
The crop should be kept weed free to increase its yield. First weeding is done after 15-20 days of sowing. Usually, 2-3 weeding’s in two months of sowing are preferred to keep the weeds under control.
Plant – Protection and Pesticides:
Spray of 5.0% Aldrin on soil controls root eaters. Aerofungin is used to control mid-dew.
Harvesting/Collection:
The crop is harvested in March or mid\April. Generally, after 50-60 days of planting, the crop, flowers and after 120 days, seeds mature for collection. The plant is cut above the ground, converted into sheaves and dried. Thrashing is done and the material is winnowed and sieved.
Yield:
Average yield of seeds per hectare is 6 to 7.5 quintals.
Constituents:
The seeds and husk contain mucilage which is of major importance. Chemically, it consists of pentosan and aldobionic acid. On hydrolysis, it produces xylose, arabinose, galacturonic acid and rhamnose. Fixed oil and proteins are other important constituents of drugs.
Uses:
The seeds, as well as, husk are used as demulcent, laxative, emolient and in the treatment of chronic constipation, amoebic and bacillary dysentery. The crushed seeds are used in the form of poultice for rheumatic pain.
The mucilage of Isapgol is used in preparation of tablets, as a stabilizer in ice-cream industry and also in certain cosmetic formulations.
Adulterants:
Isapgol seed are adulterated with seeds of Plantago Lanceolata.
Marketed Products:
Ayurvedic Formulations:
Nature care, Isabbel.
Patented Medicines:
Trifalco, Peglef, Spogel compound.
4. How to Cultivate Vidang?
Introduction:
This climbing shrub is known for its medicinal values since the period of charaka and Sushruta. It is widely used for its anthelmintic property.
Synonyms:
Embelia, Bidang, Wauding, Briberang.
Source:
These are the fruits of the plant Embelia ribes, belonging to family Myrsinaceae.
Geographical Source:
It is distributed in hilly parts of India, found in Assam, Bihar, Bengal, Orissa, Chhatisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and throughout northern parts of India. It is also found in Sri Lanka.
Cultivation Parameters:
Climatic Conditions:
Climate:
It grows in temperate to tropical regions. It needs moist soil and partial shady region for favourable growth. It can be grown under different agro-climatic conditions.
Altitude:
It grows well upto altitude of 900 to 1700 metres.
Temperature and Humidity:
Temperature ranging from 25°C to 30°C is suitable for its growth.
Rainfall:
In the range of 50-150 cm is favourable for cultivation.
Type of Soil:
It thrives well on variety of soil ranging from black cotton soil to sandy or rocky soils. Moist soil with rich organic matter is preferable for its healthy growth.
Type of Propagation:
It is propagated by using seeds (nursery raising).
Total Duration of Crop:
2.5 years.
Time of Cultivation:
Nursery beds are raised during the month of May-June. Suitable climatic condition for its cultivation/transplantation is at onset of monsoon.
Preparation of Land:
The land is prepared by deep ploughing, 2-3 times. The soil is well mixed with compost manure, made free of weeds and levelled. The pits of 30 x 30 cm size are prepared or rows are prepared at distance of 60 cm.
Raising Nursery Beds:
Nursery beds are raised by using mixture of sand, soil and compost manure or farm yard manure. The seeds are sown at regular intervals during May-June. They are lightly watered after sowing. About 5 kg of seeds are required for preparing 10,000 plants, which are
required for planting in one acre of land.
The nursery beds, are watered at regular interval till the seedlings are grownup enough for transplanting in the fields. Usually, after a period of 5 to 6 months, the seedlings are ready for transplanting process.
Transplantation:
The seedlings are transplanted in heavily manured fields at a distance of 60 x 60 cm. After transplanting, seedlings are lightly irrigated. About 10,000 plants are planted in one acre of land.
It is a moisture loving plant and needs irrigation at regular intervals. To keep the soil moist; usually they are irrigated at an interval of 15 days. During rainy season, irrigation schedule be cut down, so as to avoid water logging in the soil.
Usually organic manure is preferred. Farm yard manure or compost manure is used to make soil rich in organic content, though nitrogenous fertilizers like NPK may be used, if necessary, depending upon the soil fertility.
Weeding/Hoeing:
It is a perennial crop. The weeds are kept under check by periodic weeding and thinning. Weeding is carried out at an interval of 15 to 30 days during the initial stage of growth and once the plants are well established then, according to the growth of weeds they are removed. Thinning of plants may be done as and when required.
Plant – Protection and Pesticides:
No serious diseases or pest is found to attack the crop; regular watering at an interval of 15 to 20 days keeps the crop healthy.
Harvesting:
After two years of plantation, the crop is ready for harvesting. Generally, after two years, it bears fruits during August – September. When the fruits attain maturity (ripes), they are harvested manually in the months of December – January.
The harvested fruits are sun-dried or dried in shade carefully, avoiding the attack of fungal infection.
On an average, yield of dry fruits is about 15 to 20 q/h at the end of second year of plantation.
It consists of embelin, raponone, homoembelin, quercitol, christembeline, etc. Vidangin and fatty ingredients are also found.
Uses:
It is widely used as an anthelmintic in children and as a general tonic for gastrointestinal disorders, in constipations, as carminative and stimulant. It is also used against recurrent upper respiratory tract infection.
Storage:
The dried fruits are stored in clean and porous fruits bags in dry place.
Marketed Products:
Ayurvedic Formulations:
Vidang- adichurna, Vidangaarishtha, Vidanga lauha, Vidanga taila.
Patented Formulations:
Diarex tablets, gases tablets.
5. How to Cultivate Senna?
Introduction:
These are small shrubs of 1.5 m height, known from very old days for laxative property and were included in unani medicine. It is now, well accepted in allopathic drug system too.
Synonyms:
Senai-ki patti, Tinnevelly senna, Cassia senna, Sennae folium, Senna leaf sonamukhi.
Source:
It consists of dried leaflets of Cassia augustifolia vabl, belonging to family Leguminosae. It contains not less than 2% of anthracene derivatives.
Varieties:
Improved variety ‘sona’ and ALFT-2.
Geographical Source:
It is native of South Arabia and West Asia. In India, its cultivation is widely done in Tinnevelly, Madurai, Ramnathpuram districts of Tamilnadu and also in Kutch and Rajasthan to limited extent. At present, about 25000 hectares of land is under cultivation of senna in India and approximately 22500 tonnes of leaves and 7500 tonnes of fruits are being produced every year.
Cultivation Parameters:
Climatic Conditions:
Climate:
Dry summer with moderate temperature is, ideal for cultivation. It cannot survive at very low temperature.
Altitude:
It can be grown upto an altitude of 600 to 900 metres.
Temperature and Humidity:
Ranging between 30° to 35°C.
Rainfall:
An average distributed rainfall between 25 to 40 cm is sufficient.
Type of Soil; pH of Soil:
Generally, red loamy or coarse gravelly soil is selected but can also be grown in alluvial loamy soil. pH of soil should be 7.0 to 8.5.
Cultivation Details:
Type of Propagation:
By using seeds (propagation by broadcasting method).
Time of Cultivation:
In the month of February-March in northern India and in Southern India, during October – November i.e. after rains.
Total Duration of Crop:
Nine months.
Preparation of Land and Cultivation:
Before sowing, the land is ploughed twice, harrowed and levelled. Normally, sowing is done by broadcasting method. The seeds are sown thinly in lines, 30-40 cm apart and at 1.5 to 2.0 cm depth. Soil moisture must be enough for germination, even though it is grown in dry fields.
Germination is completed within a week. Delay in sowing of seeds reduces the vegetative phase and ultimately, affects the yield of drug. The plants are allowed to grow for about five months till the growth of flower stalk occurs.
Treatment of Seeds:
Seeds are treated with fungicide before sowing for early germination. Also, the seed surface is abased or triturated with sand.
Irrigation and Interculture:
It is grown as semi-irrigated or light irrigated crop, though 5-6 irrigations increase the herb yield. About 2-3 weeding’s in the beginning are sufficient to raise the crop.
Fertilizers:
Though, it is a leguminous plant, due to lack of root nodules, it is unable to fix atmospheric nitrogen. Hence, to increase yield of senna, nitrogenous fertilizers are beneficial. The recommended dose is 80: 40: 20 kg/hectare of NPK. The nitrogen application dose is splitted, each after thinning, 1st picking and second picking operations. It thrives well on residual nutrients of previous cereal crop.
Plant – Protection and Pesticides:
Spraying of chemical fungicides on leaves, should be preferably, avoided. For leaf spots by Phyllostica sp. or Corcospora sp. and dry rot by Macrophomina phaseoli, 0.5% Diathene M 45 can be used. To control green leaf eating caterpillar and pod borer 0.25% carbaryl may be used.
Harvesting:
Younger leaves and pods contain high sennoside content, hence to obtain desired level of biomass, picking is done after 2-3 months of sowing. Harvesting of leaves is done in three stages. The first plucking is done when the leaflets are thick, full grown and greenish in colour.
After one month of this collection, second plucking is done and last plucking is carried out after 4-6 weeks of second collection. The entire plants are uprooted after third plucking. It is observed that the content of sennosides in leaves is maximum, when they are fully grown and goes on decreasing along with maturation of pods.
Crop Rotation:
Senna crop is taken after cereal crop usually rice, which gives best yield.
Collection:
After collection, leaflets are dried in well ventilated drying shade or indoor by spreading them in thin layers. Within 7-10 days drying take place and the leaves show yellowish green colour.
Yield:
Under irrigated and better management practice 1200 kg of dried leaves and pods per hectare are obtained.
On rainfed land, an average of 500 to 700 kg of drug per hectare is procured.
Constituents:
It contains anthracene glycosides, sennoside A (0.3 to 0.4%); sennoside B (0.3 to 0.5%), sennosides C and sennoside D, aglycones rhein, aloe emodin, flavonidkaempferol, etc.
Adulterants:
Tinnevelly senna is found to be adulterated with Dog senna, Palthe senna and Mumbai, Mecca and Arabian senna.
Uses:
It is used as purgative in habitual constipations. It is also used for liver complaints, spleen enlargement, jaundice, etc.
Storage:
They are packed into bales under hydraulic pressure. They should be protected from light. But, generally drug does not lose potency at least for 5 years.
Marketed Products:
Ayurvedic Formulations:
Yashtyadi churna, Avipattikar churna, Shataskar churna, etc.
Patented Medicines:
Kayam churna, Livobin, surakta, EUCOAL, spolax.
6. How to Cultivate Phyllanthus?
Introduction:
It is a small annual herb, known since the ancient period of Charaka for its medicinal use. The fresh juice of whole plant is found to be useful in various liver disorders.
Synonyms:
Phyllanthus amara, Bhuiamla, Hazardana.
Source:
All aerial parts of the plant, Phyllanthus niruri belonging to family Euphorbiaceae are used.
Indian variety available is Phyllanthus fraternus.
Geographical Source:
The plant is found growing abundantly throughout India, mainly in the states of Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Bihar, Orissa, Andhra Pradesh and some parts of Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka and Bengal. Also found in Sri Lanka.
Cultivation Parameters:
Climatic Conditions:
Climate:
It grows well under tropical climatic conditions. However, very dry temperature or very low temperature conditions are hot preferred.
Altitude:
It can grow upto 700 to 800 metres from sea level.
Temperature and Humidity:
Suitable temperature ranging from 25 to 40°C. Average humidity is desired.
Rainfall:
Well distributed rainfall in the range of 40-50 cm.
Type of Soil and pH of the Soil:
Adapted to wide variety of soil, preferably well drained rich organic and light textured soils. It also grows well on sandy loam to calcareous soil. Soil pH should be alkaline to acidic. Even water logging soil does not show adverse effects on its growth.
Cultivation Details:
Type of Propagation:
Propagated well through seeds or by raising seedlings and transplanting.
Time of Cultivation:
Nursery raising is carried out during the month of April/May and transplanting of seedlings on field during the onset of monsoon i.e. month of June.
Total Duration of Crop:
One year.
Preparation of Land:
The land is ploughed well, pulverised, deep ploughings are given so as to remove all weeds. Then, it is mixed with farmyard manure during last ploughing, the land is levelled and rows at distance of 15 x 15 cm are prepared for transplanting the seedlings.
Raising Nursery Beds:
For raising seedlings, seeds are sown in nursery beds. Beds are prepared using sand, soil and mixing decomposed farm yard manure with top layer of soil. Since, the seeds are minute, they are mixed with sand for uniform distribution in nursery bed during sowing.
Once the seeds are spread in the nursery bed, they are covered with thin layer of soil, followed by light irrigation to maintain moisture. Within 4 to 5 days, the seeds germinate. During their growth, the nursery beds are kept moist by regular watering.
On an average, 1 to 1.5 kg seeds are sufficient for growing seedlings for a hectare of land.
Transplantation:
At the onset of monsoon; when the seedlings are 20-30 days old, they are transplanted in the well prepared land at a distance of 15 x 15 cm, followed by appropriate irrigation.
Irrigation:
For proper growth of this plant, regular irrigation is necessary. The locations which receive frequent rainfall (southern parts) need no irrigation during rainy season while locations with inadequate rainfall require regular irrigation on every alternate day, so as to keep the land moist.
Fertilizers:
Most of the times crop does not require specific manure/fertilizer treatment. As it also grows as weeds in the field. The application of compost farm yard manure or nitrogenous fertilizers in appropriate quantities, were found to be better for healthy and higher herb yield.
Weeding’s:
The land should be kept weed free. As it is a small herb, regular hand weeding at an interval of 15 to 20 days is preferred to keep the crop weed-free, promoting its healthy growth. Commercial weedicide sprays are avoided.
Intercropping:
The plants can be easily intercropped with various crops.
Plant – Protection and Pesticides:
No disease or pest of serious kind is reported to attack the crop.
Harvesting:
The plants mature within 3 to 4 months. They are usually harvested after rainy season is over, when the amount of green leaves is in abundance. Since the active constituent is present in leaves, higher leaf mass is expected during harvesting. For harvesting, the whole plants are uprooted.
Collection and Storage:
The collected whole plants are cleared of external matter and are allowed to dry in shade. The fresh juice of plant is also used in medicine.
Yield:
Total yield of fresh herb per hectare is about 2 to 3 tonnes.
Constituents:
It contains, leucodelphimidin alkaloids, flavonoids as quercetin, astralgin, quercitrin, isoquercitrin and rutin. It also contains phyllanthine and hypophyllanthine.
Uses:
The drug is used as a hepato-protective mainly, used in the treatment of viral hepatitis and various other liver disorders. It is also used as diuretic in oedema. Externally, it is used to relieve inflammation. Also, used as good appetizer.
Marketed Products:
Ayurvedic Formulations:
Churna (dry powder).
Patented Formulations:
Vimliv, Nirocil.
7. How to Cultivate Guggul?
Introduction:
Guggul is one of the noted drugs from Ayurveda and Unani system. It is well known in India, as well as in UK for its use in rheumatoid arthritis and obesity. It is woody tree and shows spinescent branches on pale yellow to brownish stem. It grows upto 2-3 metres. It bears compound leaves with ovate sub sessile leaflets, serrated with smooth upper surface.
Synonyms:
Gum guggul; Scented Bdellium.
Source:
Guggul is oleo-gum resin obtained by making deep incisions at basal part of stem of Commiphora weightii belonging to family Burseraceae.
Varieties:
Mahishaksha, Mahanneel, Padama Marusudha and Kanak guggul.
Geographical Source:
It is native of Africa especially in its arid zones like Ethiopia, Somalia, Kenya, Zaire and Zimbabwe. In India, it is found mainly in Gujarat and Rajasthan state. Ajmer and Jaisalmer district of Rajasthan are the prominent habitats.
Climatic Conditions:
Climate:
Arid or semi-arid regions. It is considered as drought and salinity resistant plant. It can be grown in warm region and on hills preferring hard rockey soils.
Altitude:
It can be grown upto an altitude of 600 to 1100 metres from sea level.
Temperature and Humidity:
After monsoon with high to relative humidity with temperature ranging between maximum of 30°C to 37°C and minimum 20°C to 25°C.
Rainfall:
Average rainfall ranging between 100 mm to 400 mm is sufficient.
Type of Soil; pH of Soil:
Sandy loam soils with more gypsum content, coarse textured, slopy well drained highly degraded lands are generally preferred. pH of soil ranging between 7.5 to 9.
Cultivation Details:
Type of Propagation:
Propagated by seeds and stem cuttings.
Time of Cultivation:
For seeds, July-September when the viability of seeds is more, by stem cutting planting is done either in June or October-November.
Total Duration of Crop:
It is a perennial crop.
Preparation of Land:
By Seeds:
Seeds are the natural mode of propagation, sloppy well drained highly degraded lands are preferred for cultivation. They are sowed after monsoon when the humidity is relatively high. Matured seeds are sown and seedlings raised through nursery bed and then transplanted after six months. The rate of seed germination is very poor i.e. 5.0% only, but seedlings produced by seed germination are healthier and can withstand high velocity wind.
Treatment of Stem:
The cuttings are treated with IBA and NAA before planting.
By Cutting Method:
For vegetative propagation, stem cuttings are raised on nursery bed during June or October- November. The 25 to 30 cm long cuttings are placed at a depth of 15 cm for raising. The rooting starts after 21 days. The plants are kept in nursery for 6-10 months and during next monsoon, the rooted cuttings are transplanted in the fields at a space of 2 x 2 metres.
Irrigation and Weeding:
After establishment in the fields, it requires meager irrigation; but, when the plant attains maturity i.e. at the age of 6-7 years, it requires irrigation during summer and winter, at least twice in the season.
Proper weeding is beneficial in the months of September and December.
Fertilizers:
Soil with more gypsum content is adequate for the growth. But it has been observed that dose of 400 ml ethaphon (2-chloro-ethyphosphoric acid) thrice a year enhances secretion of guggul several folds.
Plant – Protection and Pesticides:
It is often affected by termites causing severe damage to plant.
Control measures are as follows:
Termitarium can be checked by using kerosene and calcium disulphate; use of mercuric chloride (0.25%) or copper sulphate (0.55%) in aqueous solution or use of alderine (5%) in water can also help in pest control. Again dusting of gammaxene 250 gm in the soil of each pit is useful.
Collection/Tapping of Gum Resin:
After attaining complete maturity of plant, it is tapped from main stem. Tapping is carried out during December – February. The resin ducts occur in the bark portion near cambial layer. Plant attaining 7.5 cm diameter is suitable for tapping.
Usually 1.5 cm deep circular incisions are made. Guggul oozes out as yellowish white aromatic latex like matter and slowly solidifies. It is collected manually or with spear. The collection is done at an interval of 10-15 days.
The collected gum resin is graded according to its purity as follows:
(i) Collected from thick branches, translucent is best grade.
(ii) Second grade with dull colour and mixed with particles of sand.
(iii) Third grade is usually collected from ground which is mixed with sand and some other foreign matter.
Adulterants:
It is adulterated with resins of various Commiphora species like Commiphora abyssinica, Commiphora roxburghii, Commiphora molmol and also with Boswellia serrata.
Yield:
Starting from the sixth year, yield of Oleogum resin increases from 200 to 400 gm per plant. The total yield after 5 years is 1000-2000 gm per plant corresponding to 3200 kg/hectare for healthy plants.
Profitability:
Keeping the rate of guggul gum at Rs. 65/kg, estimated profit is-
3200 x 65 = 2,08,000 after 10 years.
If cost of cultivation is kept as 10,000 to 12,000/hectare/year, still profitability of Rs. 50,000/hect./year can be accepted.
Constituents:
The gum resin portion of guggul contains steroids, diterpenoids, carbohydrates and aliphatic esters. It also contains z. guggulosterone and e. guggulosterone. The volatile oil of guggul contains myrcene and caryophylline.
Uses:
It is extensively used in ayurvedic preparation as antiinflammatory, antirheumatic, hypolipidemic, hypocholestermic drug.
Marketed Products:
Ayurvedic Formulations:
Yoagraj guggul, Triphalaguggul, Rasnadiguggul, Maharasnadiguggul, Lakshadiguggul and Chandraprabhavati.
Patent Formulations:
Myron, Ruma heal, Guggulipid.
8. How to Cultivate Davana?
Introduction:
Davana is small flowering herb. This 50-60 cm herb bears characteristic leaves and tiny yellow flowers. Leaves are much divided (dissected) throughout, bluish green while under surface is pale in colour and has delicate aroma. The seeds of herb are also sweet smelling. The volatile oil obtained from the herb to used as natural flavouring agent in various consumer products, hence now-a-days it is cultivated on commercial basis.
Source:
It consists of dried leaves and flowers of herb Artemisia pallens wall ex. Dc belonging to family Compositae, Crinum asiaticum, family Amaryllidaceae.
Varieties:
Nagdavana and Dhordavana, for commercial cultivation Dhordavana is used on large scale.
Geographical Source:
It is found and cultivated in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Tamilnadu. On commercial basis davana oil is produced in Kolar and Chittoor districts of Karnataka.
Cultivation Parameters:
Climatic Conditions:
Climate:
It is temperate plant, which grows well in cold climate but does not tolerate snow fall. Oil content in the plant is found higher when grown in temperate region. The extremes of tropical and subtropical climate reduce its oil content.
Altitude:
100-300 m above sea level.
Temperature:
Temperature ranging between 25°C to 30°C is suitable for its healthy growth.
Rainfall:
Well distributed rainfall.
Type of Soil:
It is adapted to wide variety of soil, though sandy loam soil with rich organic matter and having well drained property is more suitable for its proper growth.
Cultivation Details:
Type of Propagation:
It is propagated from seeds. Seedlings are raised on nursery beds and then transplanted to the main farm during appropriate climatic conditions.
Time of Cultivation:
Since oil content depends on the weather conditions. It is cultivated during winter i.e. September to get maximum oil content.
Duration of Crop:
One year.
Preparation of Land:
Two to three deep ploughings are given, land is made weed free, and levelled. While ploughing soil is well mixed with 5-7 tonnes of compost farm yard manure.
Nursery Bed Raising:
Nursery beds of 2 m long and 1 m breadth with a mixture of soil and compost farm yard manure (about 10-15 kg) are prepared. Since seeds are very light they are mixed with sand, so as to spread uniformly over the bed. Then they are covered with thin layer of soil. The beds are watered regularly, within 4-5 days seeds germinate.
After one week of planting 0.1% solution of urea is spread over it so as to facilitate its growth. After a period of 5-6 weeks the seedlings are ready for transplantation. On an average 1000 to 1500 gm of seeds are sufficient to raise seedlings for one hectare of land.
Seed Treatment:
To encourage seed germination seeds are mixed with 4-5 times their weight with soil (i.e. 1 kg seeds to 4 kg soil) wrapped in muslin cloth, and kept moist for 48 hours. Such seeds, used for nursery raising germinate quite earlier.
10 kg of 5% BHC powder per hectare is applied to prevent the seeds from ant menace.
Transplanting:
Transplanting of seedlings is carried out during Oct.-Nov. When the seedlings attain height of 15-20 cm they are ready for transplanting. These seedlings are planted at a distance of 7.5 cm from each other with a distance of 15 cm between rows. The land is irrigated gently after planting. It is found that oil content of the herb is more in the transplanted seedling than the crop grown by direct sowing of seeds.
Irrigation:
The crop is irrigated regularly so as to keep soil moist till the crop is well established. Once it stands well it is cut down at spacing of 8 to 10 days; for rest of duration of crop.
Fertilizers:
Davana responds well to organic as well as inorganic fertilizers. Hence, before planting soil is mixed with 5-7 tonnes of FYM. Application of nitrogenous fertilizers or NPK in a ratio of 120: 40: 40 is applied. The entire quantity of potash and phosphorous, (i.e. 40: 40 kg) along with 40 kg of nitrogen is applied at the time of planting and the remaining quantity of nitrogen is top dressed in two parts, first after 15 days of planting 40 kg and next 40 kg after further 15 days. The crop responds well to such fertilizer management.
Interculture:
To get maximum oil content the crop is kept weed free 3-4 weeding’s are carried out during the crop duration.
Plant Protection and Pesticides:
Caterpiller, termites and mites are the common insect pests known to affect the crop badly. Termites can be controlled by using 10% Aldrex spray; 0.2% spray of metacid over leaves can prevent the crop from the attack of caterpillar.
Spray of 0.05% monocrotophos destroys the sucking insects from the crop.
Harvesting and Collection:
4-5 months after cultivation, when the herb starts flowering it is harvested. Harvesting is done twice, first after 110-115 days of planting i.e. if crop is planted in October becomes ready for harvesting at the end of February or first week of March. For harvesting the plants are cut at their base with knife leaving 6-7 cm stem for sprouting.
After harvesting, the crop is again supplied with top dressing of nitrogen and irrigated so that at the end of March it regenerates. Davana cannot resist hot summer and if oil content of crop is less, second crop is avoided.
Yield:
A well maintained crop of davana, grown under favourable conditions gives 13-14 tonnes of fresh herbage per hect. The collected herbs are shade dried for two days and stored well. It contains about 0.2% to 0.3% of volatile oil with an average yield of about 9 to 12 kg per hectare.
Oil of Davana:
The volatile oil is obtained by steam distillation of flowering herb. It takes about 5-6 hrs. for oil extraction. The oil is yellowish brown in colour with sweet odour. The flowers have higher content of oil.
Constituents:
Davana oil contains sesquiterpenes called davanone (55%), artemone and non-davanone. It contains Davana furans which are responsible for its aroma. The oil also contains minor constituents in form of cineon, borneol, geraniol, linalool, eugenol etc.
Uses:
It is used as high grade perfume. Flavouring agent in cakes, pastries and also for flavouring tobacco. It is a natural flavouring agent of choice in various food products.
Storage:
It is stored in well closed (air-tight) containers protected from light in cool and dark place.
9. How to Cultivate Calamus?
Introduction:
Acorus calamus a drug of ancient medicines is now-a-days popularly used in various Ayurvedic formulations. Actually calamus is listed as a endangered species, taking into consideration its growing medicinal utilisation and rapid extinction, it must be considered under cultivation of medicinal plants on large scale. At present the total production of calamus in the country is about 6000 quintals per annum.
Synonyms:
Calamus, Bach, Vaj, Sweet flag.
Source:
These are the dried rhizomes of the plant known as Acorus calamus Linn, belonging to family Araceae.
Geographical Source:
The plant is native of Eastern Europe also found wild in England. It is chiefly collected in Holland, North America and in Central Asia. In India it is found wild as well as cultivated in Himalayas, Sikkim. Now-a-days it is widely cultivated in the district of Tumkur in Karnataka and same parts of Southern Gujarat.
Cultivation Parameters:
Climatic Conditions:
Climate:
It grows well in tropical and sub-tropical climate. It cannot tolerate dry weather it is a water intensive crop.
Altitude:
It is found growing upto an altitude of 2000 metres above sea-level.
Temperature:
Ranging from 25°C to 30°C is suitable.
Rainfall:
Well distributed rainfall similar to paddy.
Type of Soil:
It can be grown in variety of soils from well drained sandy loamy soil with sufficient moisture holding capacity and rich in organic contents.
Cultivation Details:
Type of Propagation:
Usually vegetative propagation using rhizomes (growing tops or live ends), collected during harvesting.
Time of Cultivation:
It is best cultivated before onset of monsoon i.e. during the month of March-April.
Duration of Crop:
It is a perennial crop.
Preparation of Land:
Since it is a perennial crop land is well prepared giving three cross ploughings followed by harrowing, weeds are removed. The soil is manured with 10 to 15 tonnes of FYM during ploughing. It is also mixed with green leaf manure to facilitate for impounding water land is levelled and pits of 30 x 30 cm at a spacing of 1.5 m leaving 15-20 cm furrow space as channel for irrigation are prepared similar to paddy fields.
Nursery Raising:
Normally the planting material is obtained from, cutting growing tops or live ends of the previous crop during harvesting. The rhizome cuttings are reared in nurseries so as to enhance rooting. Cuttings are kept in high moisture trenches for about two to three weeks till the root formation.
Transplanting:
After a period of 15-20 days the sprouted fleshy rhizomes are transplanted in the field during kharif season (March-April) at a distance of 30 x 30 cm and 5 cm deep.
Approx. 40,000 to 45,000 seedlings are cultivated in one acre of land.
Irrigation:
Since it is water loving plant adequate irrigation is required. During initial stage i.e. after transplanting for proper establishment, plants are provided with flood irrigation keeping 5 cm deep water level. Usually during monsoon (well distributed) no additional irrigation is required after rains crop should be irrigated at an interval of 5-6 days.
More attention is to be paid during hot (summer) season providing irrigation every 3 to 4 days. 21 days before harvesting the crop water requirement is raised and almost every day irrigation is necessary.
Fertilizers:
Since it is a perennial crop nutrient requirement should be balanced successfully by additional nourishment through fertilizers. Depending upon the soil fertility an average 15 tonnes of FYM at the time of land preparation is sufficient.
Application of NPK for healthy growth is recommended with basal dose of 30 kg nitrogen, 30 kg phosphorous and 30 kg potash per hect. should be applied and two top dressing of 25 kg N per hect. should be done i.e. one after planting and the next after the interval of 3 months.
Interculture:
The crop is kept weed free as weeds cause reduction in plant growth. They are kept under check by weeding per month for the first 4-5 months. There after once the crop attain maturity weeding after interval of 2 months is preferable.
Plant Protection and Pesticides:
No serious insects, pests and diseases have been reported to attack the crop. Though no chemical pesticides or insecticides are used since they may interfere with the bioactive ingredients of the plant.
Harvesting:
After a period of 11-12 months when the crop attains maturity it is harvested for rhizomes. When lower leaf-tip begins to turn yellow, crop is harvested. At the time of maturity the rhizomes are 30-50 cm long. Generally during second week of February or in month of March, rhizomes are collected by uprooting, usually mechanical methods are avoided.
Collection:
Rhizomes are collected during autumn when volatile oil content is maximum. The fresh rhizomes are 30-50 cm long are cut into pieces of 5-10 cm length. They are cleaned and washed then later they are shade dried, beaten and rubbed. The process of rubbing is continued 2-3 times till the fibrous roots are removed.
Yield:
The expected yield is upto 2.5 to 3 tonnes per hect. However, its average yield can be raised by performing better agronomic practices.
Constituents:
The plant contains 1.5 to 3.5% volatile oil. Starch, resin and tannins, volatile oil contains asaraldehyde. The other contents of oil are asarone and eugenol. It also contains a bitter principle acorine.
Uses:
It is used as carminative, vermifuge. Calamus is also used as insect repellant and in perfumery. It is also used for preservation of food grains, in ancient medicines it is mainly used in epilepsy and depression.
Storage:
It is stored in well closed containers in cool-dry place.
Marketed Products:
Ayurvedic Formulations:
Sarasvatarishta, Brahmi Rasayana.
10. How to Cultivate Stevia?
Introduction:
Stevia natural sweetener is also symbolised as honey plant. Due to its high potency sweetening property, in future stevia is likely to be superior to chemical and synthetic sweetener, as well as sugar too. Its real wonder herb which is 300 times sweeter than sugar along with calorie free property. Definite efforts need to be taken to conserve such a sweet herb and increase its production efficiently to meet its increasing demand worldwide.
Synonym:
Worm seed.
Source:
These are dried roots and leaves of plant Stevia rebaundiana Bertoni belonging to family Asteraceae (Compositae).
Varieties:
Black seeds, tan seeds.
Geographical Source:
It is native of Paraguay (also known as sweet herb of Paraguay) and Brazil. Now cultivated in Canada, China, Japan, USA, Mexico, Indonesia, Korea and also to some extent in India.
Cultivation Parameters:
Climatic Conditions:
Climate:
Subtropical climatic conditions are favourable for its growth. High temperature during day time and semi humid condition promotes its faster growth.
Altitude:
Grows well upto an altitude of 200 to 250 metres from sea-level.
Temperature:
Minimum 10°C during night and between 30°C to 35°C during day time.
Rainfall:
Well distributed rainfall ranging between 100 to 150 cm is favourable for its growth.
Type of Soil and pH of Soil:
It doesn’t tolerate saline soil with water logging. Hence, should be grown on red laterite or calcareous soil with rich organic matter and well drained property with a pH between 4-5.
Cultivation Details:
Type of Propagation:
It can be propagated either by seeds or vegetative by using rooted plantlets. But due to poor seed germination (only 10%) vegetative propagation is preferred.
Duration of Crop:
Stevia is a perennial crop.
Time of Cultivation:
Usually cultivated at the onset of monsoon (June-July) since the active glycoside content increase when days are long.
Preparation of Land:
One month before transplant the land is prepared thoroughly. It is ploughed twice or thrice and made weed free. About 8-10 tonnes per hectare of compost farm yard manure is added, again ploughed and leveled. After a month transplanting is carried out.
Seed Treatment:
To increase the rate of seed germination they are treated with dilute sulphuric acid, and even fluorescent light treatment is also useful to some extent.
Nursery Raising:
Transplanting material is obtained from either plant cutting raised on nursery bed or raising seedlings from treated seeds. But since seed germination is not economical plant cuttings are preferred.
Nursery beds with mixture of fertilizers (hydrated lime, superphosphate, urea, potassium sulphate), farm yard manure and sand are raised. Cuttings are planted at a distance of 8 cm keeping 2 cm space in between shoots, it is irrigated so as to keep the soil moist. After a period of 30-40 days roots are well developed and they are ready to transplant. These sprouted cuttings give better yield.
Or stevia plant can be divided into separate plant cuttings and these can be readily transplanted to the field. But this method is not practised usually as it is not feasible.
Transplanting:
At the onset of monsoon, with appropriate atmospheric conditions the sprouted cuttings are transplanted at a spacing of 45 cm x 22 cm in well prepared field followed by light irrigation.
About 30-45 thousand seedlings or sprouted cuttings are planted in an acre of land.
Irrigation:
Since it is a moist loving plant and does not tolerate dry weather condition, irrigation at an regular interval is necessary. Heavy irrigation as well as water stagnation should be avoided.
Fertilizers:
For good yield of crop proper fertilization is required. 8-10 tonnes of compost FYM is mixed at the time of ploughing along with it NPK in divided doses is applied. Fertilizer mixture of dolomitic lime, urea and hydrated lime is also used.
Interculture:
Since it is a perennial crop weeds should be kept under check to increase yield of crop, two to three weeding’s per crop. Earthing up before rains and after harvesting is beneficial to prevent excessive moisture in soil and better soil-root contact.
Plant Protection and Pesticides:
Diseases known to affect the crop are Septoria steviae (small dark spots on leaves); Alternaria steviae (large black spots on lower leaves), Phizoctonia solani (withering of leaves), Sclerotium rolfsii (white silk) (on the soil around the stem). Herbicide trifluralin spray is found to be useful in controlling disease along with it proper nutrient management and earthing up is essential for plant protection.
Harvesting and Collection:
After 2-3 months from transplanting it starts bearing flowers. The appropriate timing for harvesting this herb, is period just before it starts flowering, when the active constituents are at their maximum in the leaves. The plants are cut at their base leaving 10 to 15 cm stem for regeneration of the crop.
After first harvesting, the crop is again supplied with top dressing of nitrogen and irrigated. The procedure is repeated after every harvest. The crop is then ready after 45 days of first harvest. In this way harvesting can be carried out after every 45 days for three consecutive years.
Whole plant is dried in shade for 3-4 days. Then the leaves are separated from the plant. Which are used for preparation of powder.
Constituents:
Total sweet glycoside concentration as Stevioside (5-10%); Rebaudioside-A (2-4%), Rebaudioside-C (1-2%), Dulcoside – A (0.4- 0.7%). Amongst these stevioside is the major component, besides these it also contains good amount of sterols, triterpenes, flavonoids, tannins and also negligible amount of volatile oil.
Yield:
Depending upon the number of plucking the leaves (3 to 6 times in a year) 2000 to 4000 kg leaves.
Uses:
Several therapeutic uses of stevia are reported amongst them anti-diabetic is the major. Along with it also shows antibacterial, antifertility, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic properties. It is also used as digestive tonic. It has shown good results in clearing up skin problems like, acne, seborrhea, dermatitis, eczema etc.
Storage:
Dried leaves and powdered leaves be stored in well closed containers in cool and dry place.
Rate:
Dry stevia leaves are sold at the rate of Rs. 50 to 60 per kg.