Rare therapeutic plants in India
At the department of pharmacology of SEI «ATSMU» 07.05.25 year, an open lesson was held on the topic of “Rare therapeutic plants in India” with the participation of the head of the department – Urunova M.V., assistant of the department – Kasymova P.V. and other teachers of the department and students of the 11th group of the 2nd year of bachelors (teacher – Kasymova P.V).
Presentation was prepared by Kuzhikkandathil Anagha.
IMPORTANCE
• Integral to Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani systems
• Found in biodiversity hotspots like Himalayas & Western Ghats
• Source of bioactive compounds (e.g., anti-cancer, antidiabetic drugs)
• Support pharmaceutical research & herbal industries
• Hold cultural and spiritual value in local traditions
• Crucial for ecological balance & rural livelihoods
• Urgent need for conservation due to overharvesting
Nothapodytes nimmoniana
Common name: Tree of Life 
Medicinal use:
• Source of camptothecin, a key compound in anticancer
drugs like irinotecan and topotecan.
• Treats cancers like colorectal, ovarian, and small-cell lung cancer.
Region: Western Ghats (Karnataka, Maharashtra, Kerala)
Conservation status: Vulnerable (overharvested for pharmaceutical use).
Rauvolfia serpentina
Common name: Sarpagandha
Medicinal use:
• Contains reserpine, used to treat high blood pressure, anxiety, and insomnia.
• Historically used in Ayurveda and traditional medicine for mental disorders.
Region:Himalayan foothills, Northeast India
Conservation status: Threatened due to overcollection.
Saussurea costus
Common name: Kuth
Medicinal use:
• Used to treat asthma, respiratory disorders, ulcers, and inflammation.
• Also used in perfumery and incense.
Region: Alpine zones of Jammu & Kashmir Conservation status: Critically endangered.
Podophyllum hexandrum
Common name: Indian Mayapple
Medicinal use:
• Produces podophyllotoxin, an active compound in anti-cancer and antiviral medications.
• Used for treating skin conditions and as a purgative in traditional medicine.
Region: Western Himalayas (Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir)
Conservation status: Endangered
Gloriosa superba
Common name: Flame Lily
Medicinal use:
• Contains colchicine, used in treating gout, rheumatism, and inflammation.
• Poisonous if misused, but highly valued in controlled medicinal applications.
Region: Western Ghats, Eastern India, Tamil Nadu
Conservation status: Threatened due to unregulated harvesting.
THULSI (THULASI)
scientifically known as Ocimum sanctum or Ocimum tenuiflorum, is one of the most revered and widely used medicinal plants in India, particularly in Ayurveda. Though it's not classified as rare, its therapeutic importance is immense.
MEDICINAL USES
RESPIRATORY HEALTH:
• Treats cough, cold, asthma, and bronchitis.
IMMUNITY BOOSTER:
⚬ Contains antioxidants like eugenol, rosmarinic acid, and apigenin.
STRESS AND ANXIETY
Adaptogenic properties help the body manage stress.
Effective against common bacterial and viral infections.
ANTIBACTERIAL & ANTIVIRAL:
Diabetes management.
Skin disorders.
Department of pharmacology