Gudmar, scientifically known as Gymnema sylvestre, is a perennial, evergreen, woody climber celebrated for its extensive medicinal properties. Commonly referred to as Australian cowplant in English, Gurmar in Hindi, and Madhunashini in Kannada and Sanskrit, this plant is particularly renowned for its benefits in managing diabetes and obesity. Gudmar is commonly found growing wild in various deciduous forests across India. It is particularly prevalent in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Punjab, Haryana, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Karnataka, Bihar, and Bengal.
Growth Habit and Economic Part
Gudmar is a perennial plant characterized by its laticiferous and pubescent nature. As an evergreen woody climber, it thrives in various climatic conditions. The primary economic part of the plant is its leaves, which are harvested for their significant medicinal properties. These leaves are the cornerstone of numerous herbal preparations used in traditional medicine.
Medicinal Uses
The leaves of Gudmar are highly valued in traditional medicine for their multifaceted health benefits:
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Anti-diabetic: Gudmar leaves are known for their ability to regulate blood sugar levels, making them a natural remedy for diabetes.
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Anti-obesity: The leaves help in reducing body weight by inhibiting the absorption of sugar in the intestines.
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Astringent: Gudmar has properties that can help tighten tissues and reduce secretions.
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Stomachic and Tonic: It aids in improving digestion and provides a tonic effect that boosts overall health.
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Heart and Circulatory System: Gudmar leaf powder stimulates the heart and circulatory system, enhancing overall cardiovascular health.
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Diuretic: It increases the secretion of urine, aiding in the detoxification of the body.
Herbal Preparations
Several herbal preparations are derived from Gudmar, including:
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Gudmar Leaf Powder: Commonly used for its anti-diabetic properties.
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Gudmar Kwath: A decoction made from Gudmar leaves.
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Gudmar Churna: A fine powder of Gudmar leaves used in various medicinal applications.
Cultivation Practices
Gudmar thrives in tropical and sub-tropical climates as well as dry areas. It prefers regions with high or medium well-distributed rainfall and grows best in red sandy loam or medium deep black soil.
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Varieties: There are no named varieties of Gudmar.
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Climate: It prefers tropical and sub-tropical climates.
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Soil: Red sandy loam or medium deep black soil is ideal.
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Propagation: Gudmar can be propagated through seeds (2-3 kg/ha) or rooted stem cuttings. Seeds are typically raised in nurseries and transplanted to the main field after 40-50 days. Mature stem cuttings of about 15 cm, raised in polybags, are transplanted into pits after 90 days, with a spacing of 2.5 x 1.8 m. The best season for planting is June-July.
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Manuring: It is recommended to use 10 kg of Farm Yard Manure (FYM) per pit to nourish the plant.
Harvesting and Yield
Harvesting of Gudmar leaves typically begins one year after planting. On average, a 3-4-year-old vine can produce 5-6 kg of dried leaves per plant, translating to about 11-12 tonnes of dried leaves per hectare. This significant yield makes Gudmar a viable and profitable crop for farmers.
Economic Value
The average market price for dried Gudmar leaves is approximately Rs 128 per kg. This high market value, combined with the plant's relatively low maintenance requirements, makes it a lucrative crop for agricultural producers. Its widespread medicinal use further enhances its economic importance.
