Abstract

VRKSAYURVEDA AND CONVENTIONAL TECHNIQUES TO ENHANCE RAUWOLFIA SERPENTINA SEED GERMINATION

*Dr. Sonal Singh Kushwaha and Dr. Suman Panwar

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Abstract

India, renowned as the "Medicinal Garden" and "Botanical Garden of the World," boasts a rich tradition of utilizing plants for healthcare. Among these, Rauwolfia serpentina (Sarpagandhā) is particularly notable for its medicinal properties, especially in treating mental illness, hypertension, and insomnia. However, the plant faces conservation challenges due to its high demand and endangered status. This review examines the potential of integrating traditional Vṛkṣāyurveda methods with modern seed treatments to enhance the germination rates of Sarpagandhā. Vṛkṣāyurveda, the ancient Indian science of plant life, offers holistic and eco-friendly approaches using natural substances like milk, cow dung, and herbal mixtures. These methods align with sustainable agricultural practices and are rooted in centuries-old Ayurvedic principles. Modern techniques, including seed priming and the use of growth regulators, provide precision and efficiency in overcoming seed dormancy and enhancing germination rates. A comparative analysis reveals that combining these traditional and modern approaches can optimize seed vitality and plant health, offering a sustainable solution for the cultivation and conservation of Rauwolfia serpentina. This integrated approach holds promise not only for meeting the growing medicinal demand but also for preserving this valuable species for future generations. Future research should focus on refining these methods to ensure their practical applicability and long-term sustainability in agriculture.

Keywords: Rauwolfia serpentina, Vrksayurveda, Germination rates, Sarpagandha.