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VOLUME 11 (1): JAN – JUNE 2024
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Review Article
A systematic review of medicinal plants used by indigenous tribal communities of Arunachal Pradesh against diabetes and hypertension
Bibhuti Bhashan Das
Department of Botany, Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills, Doimukh, 791112, Arunachal Pradesh, India.
Email: bibhutibhashan.das@rgu.ac.in
2North Eastern Institute of Ayurveda & Folk Medicine Research, Pasighat- 791102, Arunachal Pradesh, India.
Article No.: BBDJBR70; Received: 01.08.2023; Revised: 19.02. 2024; Accepted: 25.03.2024; Published: 31.03.2024
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10989628
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: Medicinal plants have been proven crucial for the treatment of several ailments. Despite the advent of modern medicines, majority of the global populations continue
to rely on plant-based medicines for addressing primary healthcare needs in the rural localities. The different ethnic tribes of Arunachal Pradesh are reported to be a rich repository of
ethnomedicinal knowledge and traditional healthcare practices. The indigenous medicinal knowledge system prevalent among the tribal communities could play a pivotal role in discovery of novel
phytotherapeutic compounds effective against diabetes and hypertension. This systematic review aimed at identifying the medicinal plants used by the tribes of Arunachal Pradesh for the treatment of
diabetes and hypertension. Present review analysed the data of 17 ethnobotanical papers published on 9 tribes of Arunachal Pradesh and shortlisted medicinal plants used for the treatment of diabetes
and hypertension. Analysis revealed 16 medicinal plant species against hypertension and 44 medicinal plant species against diabetes used by the ethnic communities of Arunachal Pradesh. The highest
cultural importance index value of 0.75 was recorded for Clerodendrum colebrookeanum Walp. which is used by the Adi, Apatani, Galo, Nyishi and Tagin communities. One way analysis of variation revealed
significant variation in medicinal plants use with a P-value of 0.02 and F-value of 2.33. Among the 44 medicinal plant species reported against diabetes, the highest cultural importance index value
was recorded for Solanum americanum Mill. (0.20) used by Adi, Galo, Nyishi and Tagin tribe. The present analysis results suggested for detailed phytochemistry and pharmacological investigation to
unveil the therapeutic potential of the selected medicinal plants reported to be traditionally used against diabetes and hypertension.
Keywords: Medicinal Plants; Ethnic Communities; Hypertension; Diabetes; Systematic Review; Arunachal Pradesh
Research Article
Extended distribution record of two threatened species of Impatiens from Arunachal Pradesh, India
Krishna Chowlu1 and Souravjyoti Borah2*
2Department of Botany, Gauhati University, Assam, India 781014
1Botanical Survey of India, Arunachal Pradesh Regional center, Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, India 791 111
Corresponding email ID: souravjyotiborah@gmail.com
Article No.: SBJBR74; Received: 01.11.2023; Revised: 15.0 2. 2024; Accepted: 26.02.2024; Published: 31.03.2024
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10989611
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: Two threatened species of Impatiens namely I. sikkimensis and I. tuberculat a were re corded here as a new record for the flora of Arunachal Pradesh, India.
Both the species were earlier known only from Sikkim in India. Detail description from live material and coloured illustrations for easy identification are
provided.
Keywords: Balsam Impatiens New record T hreatened species; Arunachal Pradesh
Research Article
Three new additions to Orchid Flora of Assam, India
Khyanjeet Gogoi1 and Jintu Sarma2*
1 TOSEHIM, Regional Orchid Germplasm Conservation and Propagation Centre, Daisa Bordoloi Nagar, Talap, Tinsukia- 786156, Assam, India.
2Department of Botany, Guwahati College, Guwahati- 781021, Assam, India.
*†Corresponding author email: drjintusarma@gmail.com
Article No.: JSJBR76; Received: 02.03.2024; Revised: 18.03.2024; Accepted: 26.03.2024; Published: 31.03.2024
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10989639
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: Three new orchid species viz. Cyrtosia nana, Dendrobium parcum and Spathoglottis affinis are reported first time for the state of Assam from Dima Hasao district. The present paper enumerates all the three species with brief descriptions, habitat, distribution range,
photos and illustrations.
Keywords: Cyrtosia, Dendrobium, Spathoglottis, New record, Dima Hasao, Assam
Research Article
Ethnomedicinal plants used by traditional healers of Bodo community in Udalguri district of BTAD, Assam for treatment of Jaundice
Jenima Basumatary, Abhaya Prasad Das, Hui Tag*
Higher Plant Systematics and Ethnobotanical Research Laboratory, Department of Botany, Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills, Doimukh-791112, Arunachal Pradesh, India.
*Corresponding Author email: huitag2008rgu@gmail.com
Article No.: JBJBR77; Received: 02.09.2023; Revised: 13.12.2023; Accepted: 15.12.2023; Published: 31.03.2024
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.11081560
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: Bodo community of Assam has been using plants as medicine since an unknown past. The traditional Bodo-healers, ‘Ojha’ are reported to have good knowledge in preparation of herbal medicines
for curing several ailments of man and domesticated animals. Ethnomedicobotanical study in 40 villages of Udalguri district of Bodoland Territorial Area District (BTAD) of Assam during 2021 – 2022 and
interaction with Ojhas and other knowledgeable people recorded 44 species of plants from 30 families and five formulations they use to treat Jaundice. The herbal formulations used to treat jaundice
were found innovative and unique but the practitioners decline to share their detailed protocols to others. However, majority of the recorded plant species they use are commonly growing in the study area.
Keywords: Bodo-tribe; Jaundice; Herbal medicine; Traditional healers; Udalguri; BTAD; Assam
Research Article
Ethnobotany of wild edible plants used by Rabha community of Goalpara district in Assam, India
Sangeeta Deka1, Jayshree Das2*, Ajitabh Bora2, Om Prakash Tripathi3, Rigzen Angmo2, Neeraj Das2
1Department of Botany, Pandit Deendayal Upadhaya Adarsha Mahavidyalaya, Amjonga, Goalpara - 783124, Assam, India.
2Defence Research Laboratory, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Ministry of Defence, Tezpur - 784001, Assam, India.
3Department of Environmental Sciences, Mizoram University, Aizawl - 796004, Mizoram, India.
*Corresponding author email: jdas.drl@gov.in
Article No.: JDJBR61; Received: 25.06.2023; Peer-reviewed: 24.11.2023; Revised and Accepted: 15.02.2024; Published: 31.03.2024
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.11081548
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: The Rabha community of Assam is known to have a close association with nature since time immemorial. They mostly dwell in the periphery of forests and utilize natural resources in the form of various provisioning services such as food,
fuel, medicine etc. Locally available vegetation is an integral part of their regular diet and traditional dishes. Although extensive studies on wild edible plants (WEPs) consumed by various tribes
from different parts of the state have been previously accomplished by several authors, there is a meagre information on the WEPs consumed by the Rabha community. The present study documented WEPs
from the selected region of Rabha in Goalpara district of Assam, based on standard ethnobotanical field method and literature review. The study recorded 51 species of WEP belonging to 45 genera
and 30 families. Plant parts such as fruit, leaf, seed, tuber, flower, rhizome, shoot, stem, root or the entire plant are consumed. The most widely consumed plant parts harvested were noted to
be fruit (17 species) and the least was stem and frond (1/each). WEPs are consumed in different modes such as vegetables, fruits and other forms such as spices, condiments, nuts etc.
The plants are mainly consumed either cooked (55%) or raw (14%), while others are traditionally processed (10%). A few species (2-10%) had a bi or tri-modal form of consumption. The findings emphasized
the significance of reinforcement to food security and conservation of the plant-based knowledge of the Rabha community for ensuring a sustainable diet source from the wild botanicals.
Keywords: Sesamum indicum; Biodiesel; Catalyst; Compression Ignition; Alkyl ester; Transesterification.
Research Article
Optimization of culture media for micropropagation of Phaius tankervilleae (Banks) Blume, a terrestrial orchid native to Arunachal Pradesh.
Tadu Yaniya and Rajiv Kumar Singh*
Department of Botany, Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills, Doimukh 791112, Arunachal Pradesh, India.
*Corresponding author email: rajiv.singh@rgu.ac.in
Article No.: TYJBR78; Received: 05.01.2024; Peer-reviewed: 26.02.2024; Revised and Accepted: 16.03.2024; Published: 31.03.2024
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.11318436
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: TPhaius tankervilleae (Banks) Blume is a terrestrial sympodial orchid native to Arunachal Pradesh. It thrives
in dense moist tropical forests at altitudes ranging from 1000 to 2000 meters. The orchid holds economic significance in floriculture, natural dye production,
and traditional medicine. However, it faces threats to its survival due to various anthropogenic activities, and low seed germination (only 5%) in natural conditions.
In the present study, we aimed to formulate a suitable medium for the micropropagation of this orchid. Our findings revealed that for in vitro asymbiotic seed
germination, protocorm formation, and seedling development, both full strength and ½ strength Murashige and Skoog (MS) were better basal media in comparison
to ¼ strength MS, Knudson C, Vacin and Went, and Heller medium, although embryo swelling occurred after 7 weeks of culture (WOC) on all of them. Among the
organic additives screened for media supplementation, peptone emerged as a superior option compared to coconut water or yeast extract on whose supplementation
at 2 g/l into both full MS and ½ MS media resulted in early embryo swelling (4 WOC), along with high seed germination (51.5%) and protocorm formation (44.7%)
after 10 WOC.
Keywords: Orchid cultivation; Tissue Culture; Asymbiotic seed germination; Protocorm formation; Media formulation; Peptone supplementation.
Research Article
Enumeration of some wild edible plants used by the Galo tribe of Lower Siang District of Arunachal Pradesh, India.
Pakgam N. Lendo and Hui Tag
Department of Botany, Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills, Doimukh 791112, Arunachal Pradesh, India.
*Corresponding author email: huitag2008rgu@gmail.com (Hui Tag); ngulompakgam@gmail.com (Pakgam N Lendo)
Article No.: Article No.: PNLJBR76; Received: 15.09.2023; Peer reviewed: 14.10.2023; Revised and Accepted: 20.11.2023; Published: 31.03.2024
DOI:https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.11396554
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: The Galo tribe of Arunachal Pradesh is reported to be rich in traditional food knowledge. Present stud
y deal s with traditio nal uses of wild edible plants(WEP) species popularly harvested and used among the Galo tribe of Lower Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh. Ethnobotanical invest igation involving 56
local residents of age group ranging between 25 85 years from 25 villages of Gensi and Sibe circles have unveiled 10 0 species of wild edible plants belonging
to 83 genera and 55 plant families . The herbaceous species were found to be dominant which is followed by tree s , shrub s and climber s . These wil d edible
species have been enumerated with their habit, habitat and types of plant part s harvested by the local residents The ethnobotanical novelties, local
traditional uses of each WEP species for food security , their commercial viabilities and liveliho od potential are also reported and discussed .
Keywords: Wild Edible Plants; Food Security; Ethnobotanical Novelties; Livelihood Potential; Galo Tribe; Lower Siang; Arunachal Pradesh
Research Article
Ethnobotany of wild vegetable species used by Apatani and Nyishi tribes in Lower Subansiri district of Arunachal Pradesh, India
Likha Rido, Pokhaw Khangam, Tailang Taba, Sumpam Tangjang, Tonlong Wangpan*
Department of Botany, Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills, Doimukh 791112, Arunachal Pradesh, India.
*Corresponding author email: twangpan@gmail.com
Article No.: Article No.: LRJBR37; Received: 07.05.2023; Peer-reviewed: 04.03.2024; Revised and Accepted: 15.03.2024; Published on 31.03.2024
DOI:https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.11407361
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: The Galo tribe of Arunachal Pradesh is reported to be rich in traditional food knowledge. Present stud
y deal s with traditio nal uses of wild edible plants(WEP) species popularly harvested and used among the Galo tribe of Lower Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh. Ethnobotanical invest igation involving 56
local residents of age group ranging between 25 85 years from 25 villages of Gensi and Sibe circles have unveiled 10 0 species of wild edible plants belonging
to 83 genera and 55 plant families . The herbaceous species were found to be dominant which is followed by tree s , shrub s and climber s . These wil d edible
species have been enumerated with their habit, habitat and types of plant part s harvested by the local residents The ethnobotanical novelties, local
traditional uses of each WEP species for food security , their commercial viabilities and liveliho od potential are also reported and discussed .
Keywords: Wild Edible Plants; Food Security; Ethnobotanical Novelties; Livelihood Potential; Galo Tribe; Lower Siang; Arunachal Pradesh
Research Article
Effect of Mimosa pudica L. (Fabaceae) as Organic Nitrogen supplementing material on the growth and yield of Oyster Mushrooms (Pleurotus spp.)
Tenya Rina* and Rajiv Kumar Singh
Department of Botany, Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills, Doimukh 791112, Arunachal Pradesh, India.
*Corresponding author email: tenyarina2017@gmail.com
Article No.: TRJBR73; Received: 13.12.2023; Peer-reviewed: 18.02.2024; Revised and Accepted: 14.03.2024; Published: 31.03.2024
DOI:https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.11416974
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: The sundried biomass of Mimosa pudica L. (Fabaceae) was applied as organic nitrogen supplementing material (MP) @3:1 along with basal substrate,
paddy straw (PS+MP) on dry weight basis for cultivation of four popular commercial species of oyster mushrooms viz: Pleurotus sajor-caju, P.sapidus, P. flabellatus and P. citrinopileatus to
determine its effect on the biological efficiency of mushroom mycelia, its ability to efficiently utilize the basal substrate and mushroom yields. The study was conducted for three different
growing months, viz: November, January and March in an outdoor, semi-technical mushroom house at Rajiv Gandhi University, Arunachal Pradesh. Paddy straw (PS) was used as the control substrate.
Each treatment was kept with 5 replicates (n=5). Inoculation of ready substrates was done using 2-3 weeks old whole wheat grain spawn @3% by layering method. From the study, the mean biological
efficiency (BE) value for all species of Pleurotus on supplemented substrates (PS+MP) was recorded at 103.1% which was significantly higher than the BE of 94.2% on untreated substrate paddy
straw (PS). Also, a comparatively higher mushroom yield (fresh weight) was recorded from supplemented substrates over unsupplemented substrate paddy straw. The results indicate that
supplementing the basal substrate paddy straw with M. pudica@3:1 is a better substrate giving enhanced biological efficiency and best mushroom yields (p<0.001) on these species of
oyster mushrooms.
Keywords: Oyster mushrooms; Substrate; Supplementation; Biological Efficiency; Yield
Research Article
Traditional uses of edible flowers among the native tribal communities of Kohima district, Nagaland, India
Ruokuonuo Kuotsu*, Pallavi Sharma, Phejin Konyak, Limasenla
Department of Botany, Nagaland University, Lumami- 798627, Nagaland, India
*Corresponding author email: aruokuokuotsu@gmail.com
Article No.: RKJBR64; Received: 27.07.2023; Peer-reviewed: 30.10.2023; Revised and Accepted: 25.01.2024; Published: 31.03.2024
DOI:https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.11468451
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: Edible flowers have been reported to play a significant role in human sustenance throughout history, serving multiple purposes such as culinary use,
ornamental value, medicinal applications, decorative arrangements, essential oil production, nutraceutical support and being utilized in various religious rituals. This study aims to create a
comprehensive record of the traditional use of edible flowers by the indigenous tribal communities residing in Kohima district of Nagaland, India. Traditional knowledge of plants holds immense
importance in local culture and belief systems of various ethnic groups worldwide and preserving this knowledge system in written form is crucial given the rapid erosion of plant based traditional
knowledge in recent decades. The present research documents flower bearing edible plants of Kohima district of Nagaland, and providing valuable insights into their medicinal significance. A total
of 51 edible flower bearing species from 22 different plant families were documented through random interview and focused group discussions with traditional practitioners, field guides and local
village elders. Plants samples collected were identified using online literatures, regional floras, monographs and other botanical references. Notably, the plant families with highest number of
edible flowers bearing species were documented from Amaryllidaceae, Zingiberaceae, Brassicaceae and Apiaceae. Present findings have provided valuable insights into edible flowers and phytochemical
studies could unveil some important compounds of medicinal and nutraceutical significance.
Keywords: Edible Flowers; Indigenous Tribes; Traditional Knowledge; Kohima; Nagaland
Research Article
Optimization of physical parameters for cellulase production by Fomitopsis meliae under Solid state fermentation
Gegam Jini and Rajiv Kumar Singh*
Department of Botany, Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills, Doimukh 791 112, Arunachal Pradesh, India
*Corresponding author email: rajiv.singh@rgu.ac.in
Article No.: GJJBR79; Received: 15.02.2024; Peer-reviewed: 10.02.2024; Revised and Accepted: 20.03.2024; Published: 31.03.2024
DOI:https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.11318516
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: Cellulose, a major component of the most abundant lignocellulosic biomass on the Earth, can be broken down by the enzyme cellulases into
simple sugars, which can then be converted into biofuel and other value-added products. Cellulases are in high demand due to their extensive applications in various industries. Brown rot fungi, a
type of wood-rotting fungi, efficiently degrade the polysaccharide (cellulose and hemicellulose) present in the wood. In the present study, we cultivated Fomitopsis meliae (Underw.) Gilb., a
facultative brown rot fungus, both under submerged fermentation (SmF) and solid state fermentation (SSF) on wheat bran, and quantified the yield of cellulases (CMCase, FPase and β-glucosidase).
Cellulases were produced in higher quantity under SSF. Various physical parameters for SSF were optimized through One-factor-at-a-time (OFAT) approach, and their best level for higher
cellulase production by F. meliae were found as: fermentation temperature - 32‒36 °C, initial substrate pH – 4.0, substrate moisture ratio - 1:3, inoculum age - 4‒6 days old culture,
inoculum dose - 4 culture discs, substrate quantity – 5.0 g, and substrate size 0.85‒2.00 mm. The fungus consistently produced very high quantity of CMCase followed by β-glucosidase than FPase.
Keywords: Brown rot fungus, CMCase, FPase, β-glucosidase, Submerged fermentation, Media optimization
Research Article
An investigation on soil-plant-AMF relationships in lateral transitional zones of a Riverine Island
Mariyom Dai and Oyi Dai Nimasow*
Department of Botany, Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills, Doimukh 791 112, Arunachal Pradesh, India
*Corresponding author email: oyidai.nimasow@rgu.ac.in
Article No.: MDJBR81; Received: 23.01.2024; Peer-reviewed: 18.02.2024; Revised and Accepted: 16.03.2024; Published: 31.03.2024
DOI:https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.11318567
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: Riverine floodplains, characterized by heterogeneous physico-chemical soil characteristics represent a challenging environment for plants to grow.
In these areas, lateral zonation is shaped by flooding events. Plants growing in riverine floodplains can benefit from their association with Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF), as these fungi help in
alleviating the stresses associated with such environments. The present study investigated the vegetation, soil characteristics and mycorrhizal associations in three different lateral transitional zones viz.
Emergent zone (EZ), Ecotone zone (ECZ), and Core zone (CZ) within Daying Ering Wildlife Sanctuary, a riverine island of one of the big rivers in Arunachal Pradesh. Sampling was done by belt transect
method and vegetation cover, soil properties, AMF diversity, infective propagules in soil, spore density population, and host root infection were assessed in these zones. Physico-chemical properties
of soil except moisture content, varied significantly across the zones. Soil nutrients and moisture were highest in the CZ while pH and bulk density was more in the EZ. Root infection by AMF, the
number of infective propagules in soil, and the AMF spore population were highest in the CZ. The ECZ exhibited the highest values for both the Simpson and Shannon Diversity indices. The study
highlights the complex interactions between soil properties, plant community composition, and mycorrhizal associations in different lateral transitional zones of the river island.
Keywords: Riparian ecosystem, Daying Ering Wildlife Sanctuary, mycorrhizal fungi
Research Article
Optimization of culture conditions for laccase production by Ganoderma gibbosum (Blume & T. Nees) Pat. under solid-state fermentation
Junmoni Das, Marjum Badak and Rajiv Kumar Singh*
Department of Botany, Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills, Doimukh 791 112, Arunachal Pradesh, India
*Corresponding author email: rajiv.singh@rgu.ac.in
Article No.: JMDJBR80; Received: 21.01.2024; Peer-reviewed: 10.02.2024; Revised and Accepted: 09.03.2024; Published: 31.03.2024
DOI:https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.11318393
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: Fungal laccases have gained significance in diverse industrial, biotechnological and environmental applications.
Wood degrading White Rot Fungi (WRF) of the phylum Basidiomycota are an important source of laccase. Optimization of culture conditions for solid state fermentation
is reported to enhance laccase production. In the present study, optimization of the physical and biochemical factors was carried out using one factor–at–time (OFAT)
approach to maximize laccase production by Ganoderma gibbosum collected from nearby sub-tropical forest. Under unoptimized conditions, the fungus showed ~186 U/L
laccase activity. Maltose/fructose, NaNO3, and Polysorbate 60 were found to be the most effective carbon source, nitrogen source, and surfactant, respectively,
enhancing the laccase yield. With the incorporation of 10 mM ethanol and 0.5 mM CuSO4 to the growth medium, laccase yield increased approximately 4-fold and 8-fold,
respectively. These findings may be utilized for further optimization of laccase production by G. gibbosum.
Keywords: White Rot Fungi; Lignolytic Enzyme; OFAT, Carbon and Nitrogen Source; Inducer; Surfactant
Short Review Article
Plant curiosities – Stinging nettle and nature’s cure
Inderdeep Kaur1, Heikham Evelin2,3*
1Department of Botany, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Khalsa College, University of Delhi, Delhi – 110 007, India.
2 Department of Botany, Rajiv Gandhi University, Doimukh – 791112, Arunachal Pradesh, India.
3Department of Life Sciences (Botany), Manipur University, Canchipur – 795003, Manipur, India.
E-mail: inderdeepkaur@sgtbkhalsa.du.ac.in; heikham.evelin@rgu.ac.in
Article No.: HEJBR66; Received: 06.08.2023; Peer-reviewed: 03.01.2024; Revised and Accepted: 18.03.2024; Published: 31.03.2024
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.11468537
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: Though the relationship between nettle (Urtica dioica) and dock (Rumex obtusifolius) plants is not obligatory,
yet it may be said to be peculiar. Both grow as early colonizers near each other on soils which may not be too fertile. While nettle is known for its sting, dock lessens
the effect and relieves the pain due to the sting. They are a perfect match and dock leaves have helped many generations of people to counter the effects of nettle stings.
In the recent years, scientific investigations have reported that both Urtica dioica and Rumex obtusifolius are bestowed with healing properties against various illnesses.
The present short communication highlights the relationship between the two plants. It also draws attention to the fact that, awareness and documentation of traditional
knowledge is important. It also brings focus on the potential of these common weeds as commercial plants with many applications.
Keywords: Histamine; Placebo; Remedy; Stinging Nettles; Trichomes; Urtification
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