National Botanical Research Institute

Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, has gained renewed attention in recent years due to its holistic approach to health and well-being. As Ayurvedic principles intertwine with modern nutritional science, the development of Nutri-Ayur products has emerged as a fascinating intersection. Innovations in Ayurvedic nutrition have brought about exciting developments in improving the bioavailability of Nutri-Ayur products. From nanotechnology to phytochemical synergies, these advancements are not only bridging the gap between traditional wisdom and modern science but also ensuring that individuals can reap the maximum benefits of Ayurvedic formulations. As the field continues to evolve, the synergy between Ayurveda and modern technology holds great promise for the future of holistic well-being and nutritional health. This chapter delves into the innovative strides made in enhancing the bioavailability of Nutri-Ayur products, ensuring that the body efficiently absorbs and utilizes the rich blend of Ayurvedic herbs and nutrients for the health and pharmaceutical benefits.

Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) is a major global natural fiber crop used in the textile industry. Although white colored cotton remains the most popular form of cultivated cotton, colored varieties could replace chemically dyed fibers and provide more environmental friendly alternatives. In order to investigate the role of miRNAs in fiber color, we selected white and brown cotton varieties for comparative investigations. Through small RNA sequencing, a number of known miRNA families were discovered (74 in white cotton and 61 in brown cotton, with 44 shared) in which 11 miRNA families were significantly elevated in brown cotton variety. Functional enrichment and network analysis of target genes of these miRNAs revealed their regulatory role in secondary metabolite biosynthesis pathway, particularly the flavonoids pathway, which are known to be associated with fiber coloration. Pigmentation and developmental-related miRNA members such as miR396e-5p, miR167l, and miR1446 were also significantly enriched. Real-time PCR results suggest the regulatory role of miRNAs in these two cotton varieties. Furthermore, 30 and 25 novel miRNAs were also identified in white and brown cotton, respectively. Our findings also show miRNAs associated with fiber coloration and development through the intricate networks of miRNA and targets. Understanding these systems may provide novel insights on improving the fiber color and quality.

The present paper deals with the identification of six species of lichenized fungi as new distributional record to India collected from Similipal Biosphere Reserve, Odisha. The species include Anisomeridium consimile, A. truncatum, Graphis litoralis, G. neoelongata, Pyrenula rubrojavanica, and Trypethelium luteolucidum. A brief morpho-taxonomic description of each species is described and illustrated.

The names Calamagrostis elatior and C. littorea var. tartarica are lectotypified on the specimens deposited at K. The taxonomic status of endemic grass C. elatior is clarified and discussed, especially in comparison with the C. scabrescens-C. lahulensis complex. An amended circumscription of C. elatior is given and a new distributional area is updated. In addition, based on morphological evidence, we propose to treat C. littorea var. tartarica as a taxon under C. pseudophragmites distinct to C. pseudo-phragmites var. pseudophragmites.

Wahlenbergia peduncularis (Wall. ex A.DC.) Hook.f. & Thomson (Campanulaceae) has been recollected after a gap of 45 years from Pindari Valley, Uttarakhand, India. This species has remained nearly anonymous due to the lack of recent collections.A detailed description and photographic documentation based on live plant material are provided to facilitate its identification.Additionally, a lectotype is designated for the name W. peduncularis.

Quality control is crucial in Ayurvedic formulations, and chemotaxonomic studies help in quality regulation and identification of superior-quality raw material. The present study deals with chemotaxonomic studies of Solanum xanthocarpum Schrad. & Wendl. collected from different locations of Central India on the basis of five steroidal alkaloid contents quantified by a validated high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) method. The separation of metabolites was done in mobile phase containing n-propanol:ethyl acetate:10% glacial acetic acid in water (4:8:3, V/V) for solasonine, solamargine, and khasianine and toluene:ethyl acetate:diethylamine (6:2:0.3, V/V) for solasodine and diosgenin. The standards were separated efficiently at RF values 0.15 ± 0.01, 0.22 ± 0.02, and 0.31 ± 0.02 for solasonine, solamargine, and khasianine, respectively; and 0.38 ± 0.04 and 0.50 ± 0.03 for solasodine and diosgenin, respectively. The developed method was linearly calibrated at 0.2‒1 µg/spot. The limits of quantification and detection ranged from 0.029 to 0.16 µg and 0.009 to 0.053 µg, respectively. Recovery of analytes varied from 98.41% to 100.34%, and the method precision (i.e., intraday and interday) was within the limit specified by the International Council for Harmonisation guidelines. The maximum contents of solamargine, solasodine, and diosgenin were found in NBSx-32, whereas NBSx-20 and NBSx-27 had the highest content of solasonine and khasianine. Principal component analysis (PCA) and unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) cluster analysis showed NBSx-32 as an elite chemotype for four biomarker compounds, but not for khasianine. This study explores high-metabolite-containing S. xanthocarpum chemotype(s), facilitating the sourcing of quality raw material for herbal industries. This study also provides leads for quality planting material of S. xanthocarpum for location-specific cultivation.

Characterizing flavour-related metabolites of Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze is essential for enhancing tea quality and understanding the biochemical foundations of its distinctive taste and aroma. Metabolites like catechins, polyphenols and flavonoids not only contribute to the sensory appeal of tea but also offer multiple health benefits. Comprehensive profiling of these metabolites in indigenous tea germplasm – an underexplored genetic resource –offers valuable insights into their genetic diversity and potential application in breeding programs to develop new cultivars with tailored flavour profiles. In this context, a study was conducted to characterize flavour-related metabolites, including pigment, total polyphenols, catechins and their derivatives, caffeine, tannins and antioxidant activity, across 169 ancient tea germplasm of Assam. Comparative analysis among Assam, China and Cambod-type like varieties revealed significant differences, with F-values highly significant at 0.001. Quantification using RP-HPLC identified catechins, caffeines and gallic acid in the following order of abundance: (-)-Epigallocatechingallate > Caffeine > (-)-Epicatechin > (-)-Epicatechingallate > Gallic acids > (-)- Epigallocatechins > ( +)- Catechins, with Epigallocatechingallate as the predominant contributor. Notably, Cambod-type germplasm exhibited higher metabolite concentrations compared to Assam and China types. High heritability (h²b) values for all measured traits indicated minimal environmental influence. Additionally, a strong correlation between pigment, catechins and their derivatives, caffeine likely explains the astringent and bitterness properties of tea. Moreover, high antioxidant activity can boost tea’s market value. The findings could not only enhance the understanding of tea’s flavour profiles but also pave the way for development of higher-quality tea and improved breeding material for future research programmes.

This study explores the synergistic application of diverse bioremediation strategies to effectively eliminate soil organic pollutants. The generation of persistent and toxic wastes has led to severe consequences in environment. While conventional methods have been employed, their limitations, particularly associated costs, necessitate exploring alternative approaches. Bioremediation techniques have exhibited promising results, but the current paradigm advocates integration of various strategies to enhance degradation rates and reduce overall remediation time. The interdisciplinary nature of this issue calls for amalgamation of knowledge from different bioremediation techniques to achieve more efficient outcomes. This research aims to provide valuable insights into coupling different bioremediation strategies, emphasizing their combined potential for eradicating soil organic pollutants. The study advocates integrated methods to yield synergistic effects, fostering enhanced performance in remediation of contaminated sites. The ultimate goal is to contribute to the development and maintenance of metabolic robustness in degradative microbes within the soil environment.

Phycoremediation is emerging as an innovative approach for the remediation of different types of wastewater rich in nutrients, dyes, pharmaceuticals, as well as other organic and inorganic pollutants. Different microalgal species (Chlorella, Chlamydomonas, Scenedesmus, etc.) have been employed for remediation of various kinds of wastewater, such as domestic, industrial, and municipal wastewater. Phycoremediation provides advantages over conventional treatment methods because it does not negatively impact the environment, and the complete removal of pollutants is also evidenced in many studies. However, several factors, like temperature, pH, light, etc., may impact the efficacy of the removal process, with the best removal found at optimum conditions, which may vary for each strain. Furthermore, the treatment process is accompanied by high-biomass production that can be used commercially in the biofuel, nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and biofertilizers industries. This chapter, therefore, aims to provide insights into the bioremediation potential of microalgae with various value-added products linked with generated biomass. Microalgae-mediated contaminant removal from different wastewater, the impact of culture conditions on the remediation efficiency and the mechanisms (biodegradation, biosorption, bioaccumulation) governing remediation have been discussed. Potential commercial applications of the generated microalgal biomass are also discussed.

Monotypic genera are those that include a single species and, as representatives of distinct phenotypic and molecular diversity, are of particular importance for conservation. In this study, threat assessment of the monotypic Indopiptadenia was carried out, along with potential habitat distribution in its native range. Threat status of I. oudhensis has been assessed as ‘Endangered’ B2ac(ii,iii,iv) + D1. Nineteen bioclimatic and one terrain variables were used to predict the potential habitat of I. oudhensis using the MaxEnt tool. Four major bioclimatic variables determining the habitat distribution were bio13 (precipitation of wettest month), bio9 (mean temperature of driest quarter), bio4 (temperature seasonality), and bio6 (minimum temperature of coldest month), which contributed 36.7%, 13.9%, 13.6%, and 12.1%, respectively for model prediction. The most affecting variable bio13 ranged between 419.60–859.44 mm. The suitable areas were predicted mainly in the Champawat (Uttarakhand) and Pilibhit (Uttar Pradesh) in India and adjacent regions in Nepal, with a total occupancy of 18,637.92 km². High, moderate, and low suitable habitats were estimated 2629.88 km², 5304.48 km², and 10,703.56 km², respectively. The predicted suitable areas can be utilized for the in-situ conservation of this threatened monotypic species. The protected forest areas in this region, which are under the suitable habitat in prediction analysis, could be the best location for its conservation and further management.

The tree bean (Parkia timoriana (DC). Merr) is an underutilized legume and is abundantly found in Southeast Asia. It is valued for its nutritious pods and cultivated for food and timber. Despite of the presence of several nutrients, the regulatory networks involved in secondary metabolite biosynthesis in the tree bean remain largely unexplored. Recent studies have highlighted that consumption of its pods provides numerous health benefits, including antioxidant, α-glucosidase inhibitory, antibacterial, antidiabetic, and insecticidal activities. To elucidate the biosynthesis of specific metabolites in this plant, a comparative metabolite and transcriptomic analysis of the leaf and root tissues of P. timoriana was carried out. The study revealed that P. timoriana leaf and root tissues contain varying levels of phenolics, flavonoids, and terpenoids. ¹H nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H NMR) analysis identified 16 significant metabolites in the leaf and root tissues, including sugars, amino acids, and organic acids. L-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-DOPA), an amino acid derivative and precursor to dopamine, was detected for the first time in the seeds. Additionally, the presence of pinitol in P. timoriana was also confirmed. De novo RNA-sequence analysis identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in both the tissues. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis identified pathways associated with shikimate pathway, such as phenylpropanoid and flavonoid biosynthesis. MapMan pathway analysis revealed a high number of transcripts related to phenylalanine, tryptophan, tyrosine, and condensed tannin biosynthesis. The research conducted identified secondary metabolites in P. timoriana, and their probable biosynthetic pathway which can be used for medicinal and nutritional purposes.

Chlorophyll concentration is one of the important biochemical properties of vegetation as it relates to photosynthetic activity and health. The amount of chlorophyll in a vegetation canopy indicates the physiological status or the health condition. Compared to other terrestrial ecosystems, mangroves are highly productive, so there is a need for a better understanding of the dynamics of carbon sequestration by monitoring their health and nutrition status for ecological conservation and restoration processes. In spite of many ecosystem services, limited research has been conducted concerning mangrove chlorophyll assessment due to the challenges of field sampling. The majority of the chlorophyll assessments in mangroves are being executed with the help of remote sensing data-derived vegetation indices (VIs). However, they are site or species-specific, which prohibits a universal adaptation. Our study quantifies leaf chlorophyll concentration (LCC) distribution using the Airborne Visible InfraRed Imaging Spectrometer—Next Generation (AVIRIS-NG) hyperspectral imagery and field observed dataset for the Bhitarkanika National Park (BNP), a mangrove ecosystem of India. This study aims to predict the LCC utilizing absorption features such as absorption band depth (ABD) as a predictor variable. This was calculated using continuum removal techniques and further predicted using machine learning (Random Forest, RF). This study identifies the red-edge region (676–722 nm) as the prominent part of the electromagnetic spectrum that is useful for predicting LCC. Our model achieved an acceptable accuracy (R2 = 0.82, RMSE = 0.34) and comparable validation statistics (R2 = 0.44, RMSE = 0.38), despite on-field logistic constraints in LCC measurements. This study demonstrated a protocol for a rapid estimate of biochemical variables using (AVIRIS-NG) hyperspectral imagery.

Wood apple ( Limonia acidissima L., Rutaceae) is a medium to large-sized semideciduous tree native to Indian subcontinent. The Indian systems of medicine recognized this tree for its medicinal properties and nutritional fruit. The present study evaluates chemotypic diversity by using HPTLC method for identification of elite genotypes among 96 accessions of wood apple leaves collected from diverse populations across 16 states of India. Here, the multivariate analysis, including the extent of variation, broad sense heritability, genetic advance, correlation of mean value of each replicate were assessed with respect to four target bioactive molecules (quercetin, stigmasterol, psoralen and niloticin) extracted from leaves of wood apple. The results showed that the analysis of variance revealed significant variabilities for all the four biomolecules analysed. The hierarchical clustering grouped all the accessions into eight clusters. Out of which, cluster II and VI contained a maximum of 20 and 18 genotypes, respectively. Cluster VIII consisted of only three genotypes. The intra-cluster distance ranged from 0 (cluster II to VIII) to 6.83 (cluster I). The highest inter-cluster distance was found between clusters V and VII (22.52). Positive correlation was found between chemotypic traits at both the genotypic and phenotypic level. The broad sense heritability was recorded highest for quercetin (97.7%). The high genetic advance was noticed for niloticin (217.4). This study detected significant chemotypic variation among the accessions. The elite accessions identified in this study could be utilized to enhance the quality, efficacy and economic value of medicinal products.

Betula utilis subsp. jacquemontii (Spach) Ashburner & McAll. is a medicinally and ecologically important tree species in the Western Himalayan Region (WHR) of India. Estimation of genetic variability and population structure of 11 populations of B. utilis subsp. jacquemontii in the WHR were carried out using 15 ISSR and 10 DAMD markers. The cumulative analyses of the markers (ISSR + DAMD) revealed a moderate level (49.47%) of polymorphism at the species level. Khilanmarg, Gangotri, and Khaliya top populations showed the highest polymorphism, while the Bhyundar Valley and Chatru-Kaza road populations showed the lowest polymorphism across 11 populations. Mantel test revealed a positive correlation between pair-wise genetic and geographical distances in wild populations of B. utilis subsp. jacquemontii in the WHR. The AMOVA analysis showed that majority of variation of the species exists among populations (54%), followed by within populations (20%). The clustering pattern obtained from UPGMA, PCoA, and STRUCTURE analyses revealed that 11 natural populations of B. utilis subsp. jacquemontii separated into two distinct genetic clusters. The genetic differentiation is notably high (GST = 0.74) among populations with a low gene flow (Nm = 0.16), which could be attributed to geographic isolation, high mountain ranges, regional climatic conditions, and habitat destruction in the WHR. The genetically diverse populations recognized in this study could be a valuable genetic resource for conservation and management of this important timberline tree species.

Nano remediation shows great potential as an effective approach for addressing environmental restoration, specifically in the treatment of persistent pollutants such as pesticides, chlorine-based solvents, halogen-containing chemicals, and toxic heavy metals. In general, nanotechnology is revolutionizing different environmental contexts, such as the purification of water and wastewater, the restoration of soil and sediment, and the process of bioremediation. Nanomaterials, particularly metal oxides, carbon nanotubes, and biopolymers, possess the capability to purify water and assimilate pollutants. Nanoparticles possess the capacity to efficiently and economically eliminate pollutants; yet their long-term safety and sustainability remain questionable. Monitoring the utilization of nanoparticles in environmental remediation is essential to prevent exacerbation of the pollution situation. In this review we highlight the types of nanoparticles and their characterisation mechanism. Besides, that the review also emphasis the role of nanoparticles in environment, agriculture and human health areas. Moreover, we also discuss the inherent toxicity of nanoparticles, and the challenges associated with their recycling and regeneration, can result in escalated treatment expenses and negative environmental consequences. Graphical abstract

The family Lamiaceae includes the genus Lavandula, which is widely cultivated throughout the Mediterranean region, including France, Spain, and Italy. The plant forms dense clumps that are roughly 40-60 cm tall. The reference genome for "Jingxun 2," an excellent cultivar of Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) was created by a research team in China. Lavandula which contains tannins, phytosterols, coumarins, herniarins, ursolic acid, sugars, valeric acid, glycolic acid, coumaric acid, anthocyanins, minerals, and essential oils. Lavender oil can also help with many kinds of health problems because it has many bioactive ingredients, such as linalool, lavandulol, anthocyanins, geraniol, ursolic acids, linalyl acetate, valeric acid, 1,8-cineole, borneol, lavandulyl acetate, terpinen-4-ol, camphor, phytosterols, coumaric acid, and glycolic acid. The genus Lavender exhibits various biological activities, including antioxidants, antiparasitic, and neuroprotective properties. Recent studies have demonstrated the numerous biological activities of Lavandula, but we still need to develop new medications that harness the components of this plant to treat a variety of illnesses. This study covers various recent advancements in the use of Lavender and its phytochemicals by using various search engines, including Scopus, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science.

Background Combination therapy with polyphenol-rich natural spices has gained acceptance as a proactive approach for modulating human health owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, bioavailability is a significant hurdle in determining the actual potential of any herbal drug. Aim & Objective To improve the absorption of herbal drugs and to enhance their ability to affect the immune system, phospholipid complexes were developed for accommodating Curcumin with extracts of commonly found dietary spices like Piper longum, Piper nigrum, and Zingiber officinale aiming to have an effective immunomodulatory phytoformulation subduing the bioavailability limitation of Curcumin and delivery hurdle of phytoextracts for combination therapy. Since combination therapy with polyphenol-rich natural spices had surfaced as an effective mode of immunomodulation, phospholipid complexes were designed for encapsulating polyphenol-rich natural spices and Curcumin together and assessed for the most efficient phospholipid complexes with improved invitro therapeutic outcomes. Method A quick and easy procedure for assessing the developed formulation using High- Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) was developed. Antioxidant potential was measured by DPPH and Lipid peroxidation. Further immunomodulation was assessed in macrophages by NO inhibition assay and phagocytosis capacity. Result The results showed that polyherbal phospholipid complexes exerted 2-fold enhanced antiradical properties (DPPH radical scavenging and inhibition of lipid peroxidation) as compared to Curcumin and significant inhibition of ROS in H2O2-induced human macrophages. Moreover, these polyherbal formulations were more effective in promoting macrophage proliferation, inhibiting LPSinduced NO production in macrophages, and enhancing phagocytosis in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusion Thus, phospholipid complexes offer a practical approach for developing nutraceuticals with augmented bioactivity of herbal components.

This work deals with the development of a greener RP-HPLC method and chemical pattern recognition for the identification of Acorus calamus L. collected from different natural sources and samples traded as ‘ Vacha ’ in Indian herbal drug markets.

Impatiens linnaei , a new species of Impatiens sect. Annuae (Balsaminaceae) from the southern part of Western Ghats, India is described here. The taxon shows morphological similarities with I. diversifolia and I. saulierea , an endemic species of Western Ghats, but it is distinct in many attributes. Detailed notes on morphology, distribution and phenology as well as colour photographs are provided along with a taxonomic key for its easy identification.

Microgreen cultivation has gained significant attention in the agricultural sector due to its potential as a nutrient-dense, flavourful, and visually appealing food source. However, the conventional practices of microgreen production often pose challenges in terms of sustainability and productivity. To address these challenges, a new era in sustainable microgreen cultivation has emerged through the application of microbial consortia. Microbial consortia represent a novel approach that leverages the synergistic interactions between diverse microbial species, including bacteria, fungi, and algae. These microbial consortia help to optimize nutrient uptake, improve plant growth, and enhance resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. Through strategic manipulation of microbial communities, sustainable microgreen cultivation can be achieved. The application of microbial consortia minimizes the reliance on synthetic fertilizers and agrochemicals and promotes ecological balance and soil health. They open new avenues for the development of eco-friendly and resource-efficient farming practices, which fosters a more resilient and robust agricultural ecosystem. The present chapter discusses the fundamental mechanisms underlying the efficacy of microbial consortia in promoting sustainable microgreen cultivation. It highlights the intricate interplay between microbial diversity, plant-microbe interactions, and the physiological responses of microgreens. Furthermore, the chapter emphasizes the multifunctional role of microbial consortia as well as the interaction of microbes with each other within the consortium. Overall, the adoption of microbial consortia represents a transformative shift towards a greener and sustainable approach to microgreen production, heralding a promising future for the agricultural industry.