The Eastern Himalayan region is referred to as – “Cradle of Flowering Plants” and the region boasts of having more than 400 species of medicinal plants. The geographical features like ecology, altitude, topography, and climate conditions are primarily responsible for the region’s rich repository in diversity in plant life. Himalayan Medicinal plants play an imperative role in the local culture and economy in the region. People living in this region used these plants to treat common ailments.
Here are some Medicinal plants found in the Himalayan region:
Aconitum Ferox: Abundant in the highest point of Darjeeling Hills, West Bengal, it is one of the most popular and powerful medicinal plants in India. It is used as an antidote for poison. Apart from treating poisons, it is also used for relieving all types of body pain, anxiety, breathing problems and also in reducing fever. Partly effective in curing ailments like – gout, asthma, diabetes, it further gives quick relief from all your health issues.
Clematis Buchananiana: A usual garden plant that is basically used to treat sinus inflammation, toothache, headache, and indigestion. It is known for producing beautiful, bright yellow fragrant flowers, which makes the plant look different than the other medicinal plants in the Himalayas. From the roots of this plant, a paste is prepared that helps in reducing inflammation. Its juice, if applied to the wounds, can give quick relief from pain.
West Indian Chickweed: Commonly known as Drymaria Cordata, it is just as interesting as its name. Its leaves are used for treating clogged sinuses and inflammation in the nasal cavity is treated by wrapping its leaves in banana leaves. In China, its leaves are used for treating snake bites and such is the reason that people of China consider this plant as a magical herb. Other medicinal purposes of this plant include its use as a laxative and stimulant. It is seen in almost all regions of the Himalayan region.
Rhus Semialata: Though it grows in abundance as a deciduous tree in the Northeastern part of India, it is also found in the foothills of Northeastern Himalayas near Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Known for its huge medicinal properties, its fruit is used by the inhabitants of the Himalayan region, to cure diarrhea and dysentery.
Hemp Agrimony: This one grows all across the world but the ones growing in the Himalayan region hold a different significance as a medicinal plant. Its properties like – cathartic, diuretic, and anti-scorbutic, make it a good remedy for purifying blood. The extract of this plant in this region is applied as a poultice for cuts and bruises. The juice of this plant can also be applied to stop bleeding. Tea and tincture prepared from the leaves of this plant cure influenza within a short span of time.
