Description

The pursuit for good health has been a continuous process for human beings since ages. This knowledge is mainly gathered by the people in the form of traditions and experiences and is inherited over the centuries to the future generations. It is extremely important to save this traditional knowledge of biological heritage and explore new resources. However excessive and unsystematic use of bio-resources for medicinal purposes by the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and perfume industries have caused their depletion and threatened many valuable plant resources. Study areas, in the Northwest Himalaya were selected based on the fact that these were least explored and have rich biodiversity still present in the natural form and the climatic conditions of these areas support the survival of flora and its magnificent nature. In the area, potential herbs of medicinal interest need to be systematically explored for their scientific, aesthetic and applied value. Therefore it is worthwhile to undertake comprehensive, systematic studies to identify the potential herbs of medicinal value and it has become extremely important to regenerate, protect, maintain and conserve this vulnerable asset.