Three Medicinal Plant Species Added To IUCN Red List Of Threatened Species:
Three medicinal plant species (Meizotropis pellita, Fritillaria cirrhosa, Dactylorhiza hatagirea) found in the Himalayas have been added to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species following a recent assessment.
Key Highlights of these Species:
Meizotropis pellita:
- It is commonly known as Patwa, is a perennial shrub with a restricted distribution that is endemic to Uttarakhand.
- The study stated that the species is listed as ‘critically endangered’ based on its limited area of occupancy (less than 10 sq. km).
- The species is threatened by deforestation, habitat fragmentation and forest fires.
Fritillaria cirrhosa:
- It is commonly known as Himalayan fritillary, is a perennial bulbous herb.
- Considering the rate of decline, long generation length, poor germination potential, high trade value, extensive harvesting pressure and illegal trade, the species is listed as ‘vulnerable’.
- In China, the species is used for the treatment of bronchial disorders and pneumonia. The plant is also a strong cough suppressant and a source of expectorant drugs in traditional Chinese medicine.
Dactylorhiza hatagirea:
- It is commonly known as Salampanja, is a perennial tuberous species endemic to the Hindu Kush and Himalayan ranges of Afghanistan, Bhutan, China, India, Nepal, and Pakistan.
- It is threatened by habitat loss, livestock grazing, deforestation, and climate change, the species is listed as ‘endangered’.
- It is extensively used in Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani and other alternative systems of medicine to cure dysentery, gastritis, chronic fever, cough and stomach aches.
