RARE MEDICINAL PLANTS IN AYURVEDA AND THEIR PROPERTIES OF THERAPEUTIC IMPORTANCE

Dr. Kamini Harish Chandra Singh Rajput* and Dr. Pandhari Uttamrao Ingle

ABSTRACT

Ayurveda and ancient science of medicinal plant described several species and plants which are very rare but possesses enormous therapeutic benefits. Rare drugs in Ayurveda refer to medicinal drugs that are not frequently used because of their unique properties and exclusive habitat. Rare herbs are superior pharmacological aids and are very precious because they cure complicated health ailments. Climate change, overharvesting and habitat degradation have put many of these uncommon medicinal plants in danger of extinction. Their sustainability depends on conservation methods. These herbs are essential for creating successful therapies according to Ayurvedic Pharmacopeia; hence it is imperative that they should be preserved for future generations. The some of the examples of these herbs/plants are Kshirkakoli, Kakoli, Jeevak, Mahameda, Meda, Rishbhak, Vridhii and Ridhhi, etc. Most of them are distributed mainly in the Himalayas. This review article discusses the medicinal value and characteristics of such rare drugs of traditional system of medicine.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Apurva Dravya, Astavarga, Endangered, Rare Medicine.