Scientific Research and Essays

  • Abbreviation: Sci. Res. Essays
  • Language: English
  • ISSN: 1992-2248
  • DOI: 10.5897/SRE
  • Start Year: 2006
  • Published Articles: 2767

Full Length Research Paper

Studies on natural resources, trade and conservation of Kutki (Picrorhiza kurroa Royle ex Benth., Scrophulariaceae) from Kumaun Himalaya

Deepshikha Arya1, Deepika Bhatt1, Ravi Kumar1, Lalit. M. Tewari2*, Kamal Kishor2 and G. C. Joshi1
1Regional Research Institute of Himalayan Flora, CCRAS, Tarikhet, Ranikhet-263663, India. 2Department of Botany, DSB Campus, Kumaun University, Nainital-263 001, India.
Email: [email protected]

  •  Accepted: 05 March 2013
  •  Published: 11 April 2013

Abstract

The present study deals with populations, trade and conservation aspect ofPicrorhiza kurroa. It is a rare and endangered medicinal plant useful in curing many diseases. The study reveals poor relative density of the species in almost all the populations, suggesting the need of careful and immediate conservation of the plant. It is dubious that the species can perform well ex-situ, due to its narrow ecological range, and therefore in-situ conservation is the best option.

 

Key words: Picrorhiza kurroa, conservation, population.