August 25, 2014 07:18 IST
Source: http://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/health/medicine-and-research/scientists-say-himalayan-herb-is-modernday-sanjeevani/article6348112.ece
Scientists wonder if it is the end to the quest for sanjeevani, the mythical herb that gave renewed life to Ram’s brother Lakshman in the epic Ramayana
In the high, hostile peaks of the Himalayas where sustaining life is a
challenge in itself, scientists say they have found a “wonder herb” that
can regulate the immune system, help adapt to the mountain environment
and, above all, protect from radioactivity.
Rhodiola, a herb found in the cold and highland climate, has led the
country’s leading scientists to wonder if it is the end to the quest for
sanjeevani, the mythical herb that gave renewed life to Ram’s brother Lakshman in the epic Ramayana.
Locally called ‘Solo’ in Ladakh, the qualities of Rhodiola were largely
unknown so far. The leafy parts of the plant were used as vegetable by
locals. However, research by the Leh-based Defence Institute of High
Altitude Research (DIHAR) is exploring the therapeutic values of the
herb.
“Rhodiola is a wonder plant that has immunomodulatory [enhancing
immune], adaptogenic [adapting to difficult climatic condition] and
radio-protecting abilities due to presence of secondary metabolites and
phytoactive compounds unique to the plant,” R.B. Srivastava, Director,
DIHAR, told IANS.
Mr. Srivastava said the herb can mitigate the effects of gamma radiation
used in bombs in biochemical warfare. The Leh-based lab of the DRDO,
the world’s highest agro-animal research laboratory, has been studying
this wonder plant for more than a decade. “While its adaptogenic
qualities can help the soldiers in adjusting to the low pressure, low
oxygen environment, the plant has also been found to have
anti-depressant and appetiser properties,” said Mr. Srivastava.
Keywords: Himalayas wonder herb, immune system, Rhodiola, Defence Institute of High Altitude Research
Source: http://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/health/medicine-and-research/scientists-say-himalayan-herb-is-modernday-sanjeevani/article6348112.ece
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