Arogyapacha- A Miracle Plant

Context: 

Scientists from the University of Kerala have decoded the genetic make-up of Arogyapacha (Trichopus zeylanicus), a highly potent medicinal plant endemic to the Agasthya hills.

Things to know about this plant:

- Arogyapacha is known for its medicinal use and is endemic to Agastya hills of Kerala. 

- Because of its medicinal use it is known as a Miracle Plant.

- Traditionally it is used by Kani tribal community to combat fatigue.

- Studies have also proved its varied spectrum of pharmacological properties such as anti-oxidant, aphrodisiac, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, immuno-modulatory, anti-tumour, anti-ulcer, anti-hyperlipidemic, hepatoprotective and anti-diabetic.

Things to know about Kani tribes: 

- Constitution of India has recognized tribal communities in India under 'Schedule 5' of Constitution, and hence the tribes recognized by constitution is known as 'Scheduled Tribes'.There are about 645 distinct tribes in India.

- Kani is a tribal community living in the Western Ghats area of Kerala, India. Their use of the forest plant arogyapacha (trichopus zeylanicus) as a key ingredient in a herbal remedy called Jeevani was noted by visiting scientists.

- Kani has a rich tradition of using wild plants found in the region for health reasons. The tribal physicians, known as Plathi – are the exclusive holders of the traditional medicinal knowledge of the tribe.

-According to Kani tribal customs, only the Plathi have the right to transfer and disseminate their traditional medicinal knowledge.

Things to know about Agasthya hills: 

- Agasthya hill is a 1,868-metre (6,129 ft) tall peak within Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, situated in region of  Western Ghats of Kerala. This peak lies on the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu and is a part of the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve, which lies on the border between the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

- The Thamirabarani River which is a perennial river, originates from the eastern side of the range and flows into the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu.

- Agastya is considered as the father of the Tamil language and the compiler of the first Tamil grammar called Agattiyam. 

- Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve is among 20 new sites added by UNESCO to its World Network of Biosphere Reserves in March 2016.

Model Questions for Prelims 2020:

Q.1) Which of the following is correct about ‘Jeevani’.

         (a)It is a health program launched by The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

         (b)It is a herbal remedy used by Kani Tribes of Kerala.

         (c)It is a Health assistance program of Odisha.

         (d)None of the above

Q.2) Consider the following statements: 

         (1) ‘Arogyapacha’ is endemic to the Agastya hills, and is known for its medicinal properties.

      (2) ‘Arogyapacha’ is known for its traditional use by the Kani tribal community to combat fatigue.

         (3)'Arogyapacha' is used as an aphrodisiac or love drug.

Select the correct statement/s

          (a) Both 1 and 2 only

          (b)Both 1 and 3 only

          (c) All are correct

          (d) None

Q.3) Consider the following statements:

          (1) Tribal physicians of Kani Tribes are known as Plathi.

          (2) Plathi only have the right to transfer and disseminate the traditional medicinal knowledge of the tribe.

 Select the correct statement/s

           (a) Only 1

           (b) Only 2

           (c) Both 1 and 2

           (d) None

Answer: 1-b, 2-c, 3-c