b) Both (i) and (ii) are correct
d) Wheat
Rice, Wheat, Maize.
a) Assertion is correct, Reason is wrong
c) India
Cereals provide a comprehensive range of nutrients essential for human health and nutrition. These include carbohydrates, which serve as the primary source of energy, proteins necessary for growth and tissue repair, dietary fibres important for digestive health, vitamins including B-complex vitamins and vitamin E, and minerals such as iron, zinc, magnesium, and phosphorus. This nutritional profile makes cereals a fundamental component of balanced diets across the world.
d) Brazil
b) Tamil Nadu
- Major Cereals. Eg. Rice, Wheat
- Minor Cereals. Eg. Millet’s, Sorghum
a) A is correct, B is wrong
d) Hevea brasiliensis
- Processed wheat flour is called Maida.
- It is used in making Parota, Naan and Bakery products.
a) Lamiaceae
d) Salem Mango
- Flaked rice (Aval)
- Puffed rice (Pori) are used as breakfast cereal (or) snack food in India.
a) Tropical African region
a) Palmyra
Millets are a variety of very small-seeded grasses that were originally cultivated by ancient people in Africa. They are nutritionally valuable crops with several health benefits, being naturally gluten-free and possessing a low glycemic index, making them suitable for individuals with celiac disease or those managing blood sugar levels. Millets are drought-resistant crops that can thrive in marginal lands and are increasingly recognized as important nutritional security crops.
d) G. barbadense
a) Vitamin A, C and E
- Rich in calcium
- Staple food of south hilly regions in India.
- Ragi is made into porridge and gruel.
- Ragi malt is a nutrient drink
- It is the source of fermented beverage.
c) Both are correct
b) Africa
- It is used to feed poultry, birds, pigs, cattle.
- Source of fermented alcoholic beverage.
b) Dye: Lawsonia inermis
c) Ethiopia
- Strengthens heart
- Improves eye sight
- Thinai porridge is given to lactating mother.
c) Both statements are correct
c) Turmeric
- It is a good diuretic
- It cures constipation
- It reduces obesity, blood sugar, blood pressure.
c) Both statements are correct. Statement I is correct because Siddha medicine, one of the traditional Indian medicine systems, utilizes diverse drug sources including plants, animal parts, ores, and minerals. Statement II is also correct because minerals are indeed used in the preparation of drugs that have extended shelf-life and stability compared to plant-based preparations alone.
b) Erode
Red gram (Pigeon pea) Cajanus cajan is the only pulse native to south India.
Uses:
* Major ingredient of Sambar
* Roasted, salted, unsalted seeds are snacks.
* Young pods are cooked and consumed.
c) Marijuana
b) 90
Vegetables are rich sources of essential nutrients including potassium, which is important for cardiovascular health and electrolyte balance, dietary fibre for digestive health, folic acid necessary for cell division and DNA synthesis, vitamin A for vision and immune function, vitamin E as an antioxidant, and vitamin C for immune support and collagen synthesis. These nutrients make vegetables vital components of a balanced and healthy diet.
c) Stevecide – Natural sweetener
a) Kerala
Molecular farming plants and natural medicinal plants differ significantly in their production methods and scale of operation. Molecular farming is a biotechnological method that involves the production of valuable pharmaceutical products from transgenic plants engineered to produce specific compounds. This approach enables large-scale production at relatively cheaper costs but requires biotechnological expertise, specialized facilities, and trained personnel for implementation. In contrast, natural medicinal plants rely on traditional methods of extraction and cultivation of medicinal plants without genetic modification. While this natural method is simpler and does not require advanced biotechnology, it cannot produce medicines on very large scales due to limitations in manpower, land availability, and higher production costs. Molecular farming thus offers advantages in terms of production efficiency and cost-effectiveness for large-scale pharmaceutical production, whereas natural medicinal plant cultivation remains important for traditional medicine systems and biodiversity conservation.
d) Zea mays
b) Aloe
Coimbatore, Dharmapuri, Vellore.
Aloe vera has extensive cosmetic applications due to its multiple beneficial properties. Aloe gel is used as a skin tonic with cooling and moisturizing characteristics, making it a key ingredient in the preparation of creams, lotions, shampoos, shaving creams, and after-shave lotions. The gel is particularly valuable in gerontological applications for rejuvenation and anti-aging treatments of aging skin. Products prepared from aloe leaves possess multiple therapeutic properties including emollient effects for skin softening, antibacterial properties that help prevent infections, antioxidant activity that protects against free radical damage, antifungal properties for treating fungal infections, and antiseptic qualities that promote skin hygiene. Aloe vera gel is widely incorporated into various skin care cosmetics due to these combined benefits, making it one of the most popular natural ingredients in the cosmetic industry.
d) Jasmine
- Temperate Eg. Apple, Pear, Plum
- Tropical fruits Eg. Mango, Jack, Banana.
- These are foods that are prepared and eaten as whole grain. Eg. quinoa (தினை) is a seed from Chenopodium quinoa plant. It belongs Amaranthaceae family.
- It is gluten free, whole grain carbohydrate.
- It is a whole protein with a essential amino acids.
- Taken for 6000 years in Andes hills.
c) Cissus
Mango (Mangifera Indica)
Origin and area of cultivation.
* Native of southern Asia, Burma and Eastern India.
* Mango producing states are Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat and Karnataka.
* Salem, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri are major mango producing districts of Tamil Nadu.
Teak wood is considered the ideal type of wood for making household furniture due to its superior qualities and durability. Teak wood is highly durable and exhibits great resistance against the attack of termites and fungi, which are common causes of wood deterioration. Moreover, teak wood does not split or crack easily, even under varying humidity and temperature conditions, making it stable and long-lasting. Additionally, teak wood is carpenter-friendly, meaning it is easy to work with during the manufacturing and finishing processes. These combined properties make teak wood the preferred choice for furniture that requires longevity, aesthetic appeal, and resistance to environmental damage.
a) Ocimum – Antiseptic
Alphonsa, Banganapalli, Neelam, Malgova.
Henna is the best alternative dye.
* It is in North Africa, South west Asia. It is in Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Rajesthan.
* Orange dye henna is from leaves and shoots of
Lawsonia inermis.
* Principal colouring matter is ‘lacosone’
* It is harmless causing no skin irritation.
* It is u sed to dye skin, hair and finger nails.
a) Chilly
Dry fruits with hard shells and edible kernels, commonly known as nuts, are excellent sources of antioxidants. Nuts provide a comprehensive range of health-promoting nutrients including healthy fats such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, dietary fibre for digestive health, proteins for muscle maintenance and repair, vitamins including vitamin E and B-complex vitamins, minerals such as magnesium, zinc, and selenium, and antioxidants that help protect cells from oxidative damage and reduce inflammation. These nutritional properties make nuts valuable additions to a healthy diet.
According to Ayurveda, the three humors responsible for the health of human beings are Vatam, Pittam, and Kapam. These three doshas or constitutional elements are believed to maintain the physiological balance in the body. When these humors are in equilibrium, the body remains healthy. Any imbalance among these three humors is considered to be the cause of disease or illness in Ayurvedic medicine.
d) Cissus
The plants ideal for the extraction of commercial sugar are Sugar Cane and Palmyra. Sugar cane is the most widely cultivated plant for sugar production globally, as it contains high concentrations of sucrose in its stems. Palmyra is also an important source, particularly in tropical regions, where the sap from its inflorescence is rich in sugars and can be processed to obtain commercial sugar.
- Alternative agricultural system.
- Plants and crops are cultivated in natural ways, by using biological inputs.
- It helps to maintain soil fertility and ecological balance.
- It minimizes pollution, wastage.
d) Andrographis paniculata – Turmeric
Sugar is the generic name for sweet-tasting soluble carbohydrates that are composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms. Sugars are monosaccharides or disaccharides that dissolve readily in water and provide a sweet taste. They are widely used in food and beverages as sweetening agents, as energy sources in various food products, and in the preparation of confectioneries, jams, and other food items. Sugars also serve as important substrates in fermentation processes for the production of alcohol and other industrial products.
Andrographis paniculata is called as King of Bitters. Andrographis is a potent hepatoprotective agent and is widely used to treat liver disorders. Concoction of Andrographis paniculata and eight other herbs (Nilavembu Kudineer) is effectively used to treat malaria and dengue.
a) A-4, B-3, C-l, D-2
The sources of sugar are diverse and include the roots of sugar beet, which accumulate high concentrations of sucrose; the stems of sugar cane, which are the primary commercial source of sugar; the fruits of apple and other fruits, which contain natural sugars like fructose and glucose; and the sap of palmyra, which is rich in sugars and can be fermented or processed to obtain commercial sugar products.
Bio-medicines and botanical medicines are two distinct categories of medicinal products derived from plants. Bio-medicines are medicinally useful molecules or active compounds that are extracted, isolated, and purified from plants and then marketed as pharmaceutical drugs. These are standardized products with specific dosages and are regulated as medicines. Botanical medicines, on the other hand, are medicinal plants that are marketed in their relatively unprocessed or minimally processed forms, such as powders, decoctions, infusions, tinctures, or other modified forms. They contain the whole plant material or plant parts rather than isolated active compounds. Botanical medicines are often used in traditional medicine systems and are marketed as herbal remedies or dietary supplements rather than as standardized pharmaceutical drugs.
a) Black gram
Cultivated Saccharum officinarum has evolved through repeated back crossing of Saccharum officinarum from New Guinea with wild Saccharum spontaneum. This hybridization and selective breeding program was undertaken to combine the desirable traits of both species, such as the high sugar content of cultivated Saccharum officinarum with the disease resistance and vigor of the wild Saccharum spontaneum, resulting in improved commercial varieties.
Origin and area of cultivation of Green Gram.
* Native of India
* Archaeological evidence is in Maharashtra.
* Cultivated in Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
Origin and area of cultivation of Red Gram
* The only pulse native of South India.
* Grown in Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh,
Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Gujarat.
a) A-4, B-3, C-2, D-l
Toddy is an alcoholic beverage produced by fermenting the sap obtained from the inflorescence of the Palmyra palm tree. The sap is collected from the unopened flower buds and is allowed to ferment naturally through the action of microorganisms, primarily yeast and bacteria. This fermentation process converts the sugars present in the sap into alcohol, producing toddy, which is consumed as a traditional beverage in many tropical regions.
Millet’s: Small seeds cultivated by ancient people of Africa, Asia. Gluten-free with the less glycemic index.
Finger Millet (Ragi) (Eleusine coracana)
Came to India from East Africa. It is rich in calcium.’
Uses:
* Staple food in South Indian hills.
* Made into porridge, gruel.
* Ragi malt is a nutrient drink.
* Source of fermented beverages.
Sorghum vulgare.
Native of Africa. Major millet of the world with calcium, iron
Uses:
* Feed to poultry, birds, pigs, cattle
* Alcoholic beverage source.
Fox tail Millet (Setariaitalica)
Oldest traditional millet of India. Domesticated in China about 6000 years.
Uses: Strengthens heart, eye sight, lactation.
Kodo Millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum)
From West Africa.
Uses:
* Flour for pudding
* Diuretic, cures constipation.
* Reduce obesity, blood sugar, blood pressure.
d)Banana – National fruit of India
- Essential oil
- Vegetable, fatty oil
Drinking a cup of coffee daily can indeed offer several health benefits, primarily due to its active compound, caffeine. Coffee is known to stimulate the central nervous system, leading to increased alertness and improved cognitive function. It acts as a mild diuretic, promoting the excretion of excess fluid from the body. Furthermore, caffeine can enhance the release of acetylcholine in the brain, a neurotransmitter crucial for memory and learning, thereby improving overall efficiency. Research suggests that regular coffee consumption may also contribute to a lower risk of developing fatty liver diseases, cirrhosis, and certain types of cancer. Additionally, it has been linked to a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. However, moderation is key, as excessive consumption can lead to negative side effects.
d) (A) correct; (R) correct; (R) explains (A)
Essential oils are volatile organic compounds extracted from plants that have the characteristic property of evaporating or volatilizing readily when exposed to air at room temperature or when heated. Due to this volatile nature, they are also called volatile oils. They are responsible for the characteristic aroma and fragrance of plants and are used in perfumery, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food flavoring industries.
Turmeric is one of the most important and ancient Indian spices and used traditionally over thousands of years for culinary, cosmetic, dyeing and for medicinal purposes. It is an important constituent of curry powders. Turmeric is used as a colouring agent in pharmacy, confectionery and food industry. Rice coloured with turmeric (yellow) is considered sacred and auspicious which is used in ceremonies. It is also used for dyeing leather, fibre, paper and toys.
Curcumin extracted from turmeric is responsible for the yellow colour. Curcumin is a very good anti-oxidant which may help fight various kinds of cancer. It has anti-inflammatory, anti- ‘ diabetic, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral activities. It stops platelets from clotting in arteries, which leads to heart attack.
a) Tamil Nadu
The sources of essential oils include the flowers of jasmine, which yield fragrant essential oils used in perfumery; the fruits of orange and other citrus plants, which contain essential oils in their peel; and the roots of ginger, which contain aromatic essential oils. Other important sources include leaves of mint and eucalyptus, seeds of cardamom and fennel, and bark of cinnamon, all of which are rich in volatile aromatic compounds.
Traditional System of Medicines (TSM)
It is classified into
* Institutionalized (documented) system
* Non-institutionalized (oral) system
Institutionalized system:
* It includes Siddha, Ayurvedha
* It is practiced for 2000 years.
* Text with symptoms, diagnosis, drugs, preparation of drugs, dosage, diet regimen.
Non-Institutionalized system:
* Do not have any records
* Practiced by rural, tribal people of India.
* Knowledge is in oral form.
Focus of TSM:
* Healthy lifestyle
* A healthy diet for good health
* Disease reversal.
Siddha system
* Siddha is the most popular, widely practiced and culturally accepted systm in Tamil Nadu.
* Siddha is principally based on the pancabute philosophy
* This system specializes in using minerals for preparing drugs with a long shelf-life.
* This system uses about 800 herbs as source of drugs.
* Great stress is laid on disease prevention, health promotion, rejuvenation and cure.
Ayurveda system:
* Ayurveda supposed to have originated from Brahma.
* The core knowledge is documented by charaka, sushruta and vagbhata in compendiums written by them.
* This system uses more of herbs and few animal parts as drug sources.
* Plant sources include a good propertion of Himalayan plants.
* The Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia of India lists about 500 plants used as source of drugs.
Folk system of medicine
* Major tribal communities in Tamil Nadu who are known for their medicinal knowledge indued Irulas, Malayalis, Kurumbas, paliyans and kaanis.
* Folk system survive as oral traditions among innumerable rural and tribal communities of India.
b) Karnataka
Vegetable oils are non-volatile oils, also known as fixed oils, which do not evaporate or volatilize when exposed to air at room temperature. Unlike essential oils, they remain stable and do not readily evaporate. Vegetable oils are obtained from whole seeds or the endosperm of plants such as groundnut, sunflower, coconut, and mustard. These oils are used in cooking, food preparation, and various industrial applications including the manufacture of soaps, cosmetics, and lubricants.
Nuts have multiple culinary and nutritional uses. Cashews are commonly used for garnishing sweets or curries, providing an aesthetic appeal and textural contrast. They are also ground into a paste that forms the base of sauces for curries and various sweet preparations, adding richness and flavor. Roasted and raw cashew kernels are consumed as nutritious snacks and are rich in proteins, fats, and minerals. Almonds are similarly used as garnishes, in confectioneries, and as snacks. Coconut nuts provide both the kernel for consumption and oil for cooking. Walnuts and other nuts are used in desserts, baked goods, and as standalone snacks. Nuts are valued for their high nutritional content, including proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, making them important components of balanced diets.
a) Turmeric
Spices are aromatic plant products derived from various parts of plants such as seeds, fruits, bark, roots, and leaves. They possess sweet or bitter taste characteristics and are used primarily to add flavor, aroma, and improve the palatability of food. Spices enhance the sensory qualities of dishes, making them more appealing and appetizing. Common examples include pepper, turmeric, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cloves. Beyond culinary uses, many spices have been traditionally used for their medicinal and preservative properties in food storage.
Role of Jasminum in perfuming:
* Used in India for worship, ceremonial purposes, incense, fumigants.
* For making perfumed hair oil, cosmetics and soaps.
* Essential oil for soothing relaxing, antidepressant qualities.
* Blends with other perfumes.
* Used in modern perfumery and cosmetics.
* Popular in air fresheners, antiperspirants, talcum powder, shampoo, and deodorants.
Rose:
The average oil yield is a little less than 0.5 g from lOOOg of flowers.
Uses:
* Rose oil is largely used in perfumes, scenting
soaps, flovouring soft drinks, liqueurs, and certain types of tobacco, particularly snuff of chewing tobacco.
* In India, water is much used in eye lotions
and eyewashes.
* Rosewater (panner) containing much of phenyl ethyl alcohol and other compounds in dissolved confectioneries syrups and soft drinks.
* In addition, it is sprinkled on guests as a ceremonial welcome.
b) Rutaceae
Condiments are flavouring substances with sharp, pungent taste that enhance the palatability of food. They are typically added to food after cooking to impart distinctive flavours and aromas. Examples include curry leaves, which are widely used in Indian cuisine, as well as other spices and aromatic plant materials that provide characteristic tastes and smells to various dishes.
A) Medical importance of Keezhanelli (Phyllanthus amarus): The primary active principle found in Phyllanthus amarus is phyllanthin, along with other related lignans. This herb is highly valued for its hepatoprotective properties, meaning it helps protect the liver from damage. It has been traditionally used in Tamil Nadu and other regions for the treatment of jaundice and various liver disorders. Scientific studies have indicated its effectiveness against the hepatitis B virus, further supporting its medicinal significance in liver health. B) Nilavembu (Andrographis paniculata), often referred to as the 'King of Bitters', contains active compounds called andrographolides. These compounds are responsible for its potent medicinal properties, particularly its strong hepatoprotective effects, making it effective in treating a range of liver disorders. In traditional medicine, a decoction known as Nilavembu Kudineer, prepared from Andrographis and eight other herbs, is widely used to manage symptoms of malaria and dengue fever, showcasing its antiviral and anti-inflammatory capabilities.
a) Hepatitis-B
Tamarind is commonly referred to as the dates of India. The name tamarind is derived from the Arabic word Tamarindus, where 'Tamar' means taste and 'Indus' refers to India. This nomenclature reflects the plant's significance in Indian cuisine and its use as a souring agent in traditional Indian cooking, making it an important economically useful plant in the Indian subcontinent.
Rice (Oryza sativa) is a globally significant cereal crop, serving as a staple food for a large portion of the world's population, particularly in Southern and North-East India. It is highly valued for being an easily digestible source of carbohydrates, providing essential calories for energy. Beyond its primary use as a food grain, rice is processed into various popular products. Flaked rice, known as 'Aval', and puffed or parched rice, called 'Pori', are commonly consumed as breakfast cereals or snack foods across India. The by-product of rice milling, rice bran, is a valuable source of rice bran oil, which finds extensive use in culinary applications due to its health benefits and in various industrial purposes. Furthermore, rice husks, the outer covering of the grain, are utilized as a combustible fuel source and are also incorporated into the manufacturing of packing materials and fertilizers, highlighting the comprehensive economic utility of the rice plant.
d) Phyllanthus
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a principal psychoactive constituent of cannabis and has significant medicinal applications. One notable use of THC is in the treatment of glaucoma, a condition characterized by increased intraocular pressure which can lead to vision loss. THC helps to reduce this pressure, thereby protecting the optic nerve. Additionally, THC is employed to alleviate nausea and vomiting experienced by cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Its antiemetic properties can greatly improve the quality of life for these individuals. Furthermore, THC is recognized for its efficacy as a pain reliever, particularly for chronic pain, and has also been shown to help reduce hypertension, although its use in this context requires careful medical supervision due to potential side effects.
The Siddha system of Medicine is the system widely practiced and culturally accepted in Tamil Nadu. This ancient medical tradition is based on the teachings and texts attributed to the 18 Siddhars, whose knowledge and practices are documented in the form of Tamil poems. The fundamental philosophy of Siddha medicine revolves around the Pancabuta theory, which posits that the universe and the human body are composed of five basic elements: earth, water, fire, air, and ether. Health is understood as a balance of three humors or doshas: Vatam (wind), Pittam (bile), and Kapam (phlegm). Imbalances in these humors are believed to cause diseases. The therapeutic agents in Siddha medicine are derived from plant parts, animal products, marine organisms, and minerals. Minerals are particularly important for preparing drugs that have a long shelf life. Approximately 800 herbs form the source for many Siddha drugs. The system emphasizes disease prevention, health promotion, rejuvenation of the body, and cure of ailments.
d) millets
Phytochemicals or drugs from some of the plants alter an individual’s perceptions of mind by producing hallucination are known as psychoactive drugs.
* Marijuana: Marijuana is obtained from Cannabis sativa. The active principle in Marijuana is trans – tetrahydrocannabinol (TCH). It is used as pain killer and reduce hypertension. It is also used in the treatment of Glaucoma, cancer radiotherapy and asthma, etc.
* Opium: Opium is obtained from the exudates of the fruits of papaver somniferum (poppy plants). It is used to induce sleep and relieve pain. Opium yields morphine which is used as a strong analgesic in surgeries.
b) Palmyra
Queen of Spices: Cardamom (Elettaria Cardamomum)
Origin and area of cultivation:
* Indigenous to Southern India and Sri Lanka.
* Main cash crop in the Western Ghats, North-Eastern India.
Uses:
* For flavouring confectionaries, Bakery products, beverages.
* Seeds are used in curry powder, pickles and cakes.
* Medicinally, a stimulant and carminative (a drug for flatulence)
* Chewed as mouth fresheners.
King of Spices: Black Pepper (Piper nigrum)
Origin and area of cultivation:
* Indigenous to western ghats.
* Black gold of India.
* Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu are top producers in India.
* Pungency is due to alkaloid piperine.
* 2 types (Black pepper, white pepper)
Uses:
* Flavouring sauce, soup, curry, and pickles
* Aromatic stimulant for salivary gastric secretions as a stomachic.
* Pepper enhances the absorption of medicines.
c) 44%
Preparation of Organic Pesticide:
Step 1: Mix 120 g of hot chilies with 110 g of garlic or onion. Chop them thoroughly.
Step 2: Blend the vegetables together manually or using an electric grinder until it forms a thick paste.
Step 3: Add the vegetable paste to 500 ml of warm water. Give the ingredients a stir to thoroughly mix them together.
Step 4: Pour the solution into a glass container and leave it undisturbed for 24 hours. If possible, keep the container in a sunny location. If not, at least keep the mixture in a warm place.
Step 5: Strain the mixture. Pom- the solution through a strainer, remove the vegetables and collect the vegetable-infused water and pour into another container. This filtrate is the pesticide. Either discard the vegetables or use it as a compost.
Step 6: Pour the pesticide into a squirt bottle. Make sure that the spray bottle has first been cleaned with warm water and soap to get rid it of any potential contaminants. Use a funnel to transfer the liquid into the squirt bottle and replace the nozzle.
Step 7: Spray your plants with the pesticide. Treat the infected plants every 4 to 5 days with the solution. After 3 or 4 treatments, the pest will be eliminated. If the area is thoroughly covered with the solution, this pesticide should keep bugs away for the rest of the season.
12th Bio Botany Guide Economically Useful Plants and Entrepreneurial Botany Additional Important Questions and Answers
I. Choose the correct answer:
a) Nilavembu
a) 30,000 to 50,000
d) 6000
b) foxtail millet
a) Tamil Nadu
c) Banana and d) plum
d) Above all
d) Neem
a) Black pepper
d) Palmyra
b) Black pepper
a) Aloe
c) Henna
d) all the above
d) jute
a) Green gram
II Two Marks
- G. hirsutum
- G. barbadense
- G. arboreum
- G. herbaceum
- Pseudocereal can be eaten as wholegrain.
- These are botanical outliers from grasses.
- Eg. Seed from the Chenopodium quinoa (Family: Amaranthaceae)
- Gluten-free, whole grain carbohydrate, whole protein with all essential amino acids.
- Eaten for 6000 years in Andes hill region.
Cotton has numerous important uses across various industries. It is extensively used in the manufacturing of textiles, including fabrics for clothing and household items. Cotton is also utilized in the production of hosiery products such as socks and undergarments. Additionally, cotton is employed in making toys and other consumer goods. In hospitals, cotton is used for medical purposes including wound dressing, swabs, and other clinical applications due to its absorbent and sterile properties.
- Adaptability and colonisation on every type of habitat.
- Ease of cultivation.
- Tillering property gives high yield per unit area.
- Compact dry grains are easily handled, transported, stored without spoilage.
- High-calorie value provides energy.
- Corchorus capsularis (Indo – Burmese origin)
- Corchorus olitorius (African origin)
- Neem tree leaves are plucked.
- Put chopped leaves in 50 litre container half-filled with water. Leave it for 3 days to brow.
- Strain the mixture and spray on plants.
- 100 ml of cooking oil is added to make the repellent stick to the plants.
- Soap water is added to break down the oil.
- A stewed leaf mixture can be composted around the base of the plant.
Vulcanization is a chemical process in which rubber is heated with sulphur under pressure at approximately 150°C. This process overcomes several defects inherent in natural rubber, such as stickiness in hot weather and brittleness in cold conditions. Vulcanization creates cross-links between rubber polymer chains, resulting in improved elasticity, durability, and resistance to temperature changes. The term vulcanization is derived from Vulcan, the Roman god of fire, reflecting the heat-intensive nature of the process.
- Wood of Melia azadirachta.
- Neolamarkia chienensis
- Cauarinaspe, Eucalyptus spe.
Mango (Mangifera indica) belongs to the family Anacardiaceae
Origin and area of cultivation.
* Native of southern Asia, Burma and Eastern India.
* Andhra, Bihar, Gujarat and Karnataka are mango producing states.
* Salem, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri are mango producing districts of Tamil Nadu.
* Major cultivars of Mango are Alphonsa, Banganapalli, Neelam and Malgova.
Uses:
* Major Indian table fruit.
* Rich in beta carotenes.
* Used as dessert, canned, dried, preserves in Indian cuisine.
* Unripe mangoes are used in chutney, pickle, side dishes, eaten raw with salt, chilli.
* Pulp is made as jelly
* Aerated, non aerated soft drinks are prepared.
- Authentic records of dyeing is in the tomb painting of ancient Egypt.
- Colouring of mummy cements (wrapping) included saffron and indigo.
- Found in rock paintings of India.
Sugarcane, botanically known as Saccharum officinarum and belonging to the Poaceae family, is a vital economic crop with numerous applications. Its primary use is as the principal raw material for the production of white sugar, a globally consumed sweetener. This industry directly supports large-scale sugar mills dedicated to refining raw sugar. Furthermore, sugarcane is a crucial feedstock for distilleries, which produce liquor-grade ethanol, an important biofuel and industrial solvent. The manufacturing of jaggery, an unrefined sugar product popular in many parts of the world, also relies heavily on sugarcane. Beyond these processed products, raw sugarcane juice itself is extracted to create a refreshing and nutritious beverage, particularly popular in tropical regions. A significant by-product of sugar processing is molasses, which serves as a key raw material for the production of ethyl alcohol through fermentation, further underscoring the multifaceted economic importance of sugarcane.
- Orange dye henna is from the leaves and shoots of Lawsonia intermis.
- The colouring matter Lacosone is harmless and causes no skin irritation.
- This dye is used for skin, hair and finger nails.
- It is used for colouring leather for tails of horses and in hair dyes.
The State Tree of Tamil Nadu is the Palmyra palm, scientifically named Borassus flabellifer, belonging to the Arecaceae family. While native to tropical Africa, Asia, and New Guinea, it is widely cultivated and found throughout Tamil Nadu, particularly in the coastal districts where it thrives. The Palmyra palm is exceptionally versatile, with almost every part of the tree being useful. An exudate collected from its inflorescence can be processed to yield palm sugar, a natural sweetener. The sap tapped from the inflorescence is a healthy and refreshing drink, and when processed, it yields palm sugar. Fermentation of this sap produces toddy, an alcoholic beverage. The endosperm of the palm's fruit serves as a nutritious and cooling food, especially during summer. Additionally, the elongated embryo found within the germinating seeds is also edible, adding to the tree's extensive utility.
The people of South India have a rich traditional knowledge of using plant-based materials for skin and hair care. Turmeric is widely used for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties in skincare preparations. Green gram powder is employed as a natural exfoliant and cleansing agent. Henna is traditionally applied for hair conditioning and natural colouring. Sigaikai and usilai are natural plant materials traditionally used for cleansing and conditioning hair. These natural ingredients form an integral part of South Indian beauty and personal care practices.
Chilli, or red pepper, scientifically known as Capsicum annuum and belonging to the Solanaceae family, is a widely cultivated plant with significant culinary and medicinal uses. The species Capsicum annuum encompasses a variety of peppers, including less pungent cultivars and the large, sweet bell peppers. Long fruit cultivars, often referred to as ‘Cayenne Pepper’, are particularly valued for their heat. These are typically crushed and powdered to be used as a potent condiment and spice, adding flavour and pungency to dishes. Chilli peppers are also key ingredients in the preparation of sauces, curry powders, and pickles. Medicinally, the active compound capsaicin, responsible for the heat, possesses pain-relieving properties and is used in topical applications for pain management. Furthermore, Capsicum annuum is an excellent source of essential vitamins, notably vitamins A, C, and E, contributing to its nutritional value.
- ‘Perfume’ is a word derived from Latin.
- Per (through) and fumus (to smoke) means through smoke.
- Age old tradition of burning scented woods at religious ceremonies.
Rubber, derived from the tree Hevea brasiliensis of the Euphorbiaceae family, is a plant that contributes significantly to global production, with Asia being a major contributor, although the question implies a specific plant contributing 90% of world production by Asia, which might be a slight misstatement as rubber itself is native to Brazil but widely cultivated in Asia. Kerala is the largest producer of rubber in India. The primary use of rubber, consuming about 70% of the world's production, is in the manufacturing of tyres and various automobile parts. Beyond the automotive industry, rubber is essential for producing a wide array of products including footwear, wire and cable insulation, raincoats, household goods, hospital supplies like gloves and catheters, shock absorbers, industrial belts, sports equipment, erasers, adhesives, and rubber bands. Hard rubber, a vulcanized form, finds applications in electrical and radio engineering. The latex, the milky sap of the rubber tree, is used to manufacture items such as gloves, balloons, and condoms. Foamed latex is utilized in the production of comfortable and supportive materials for cushions, pillows, and life belts, demonstrating the extensive industrial and commercial importance of this plant.
The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) is the primary drug law enforcement and intelligence agency of India. It is responsible for combating drug trafficking, preventing the abuse of illegal and controlled substances, and enforcing drug-related laws across the country. The NCB works to regulate the production, distribution, and consumption of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, playing a crucial role in maintaining public health and safety by controlling the misuse of plant-derived drugs and other narcotics.
- Ayurveda system of Medicine
- Core knowledge is documented in compendium of Charaka, Sushruta and Vagbhata.
- It is based on 3 humor principles Vatha, Pitha, Kapha.
- Herbs, few animal parts are drug sources.
- Himalayan plants are plant sources.
- Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia of India list 500 plant sources.
Yes, new business ventures can be created using plant resources through the application of entrepreneurial botany. Entrepreneurial botany is the study and practice of developing innovative business ideas and enterprises based on plant resources and botanical knowledge. It involves identifying economically viable plant products, developing value-added products, and creating sustainable business models that utilize plant-based materials for commercial purposes, thereby generating employment and economic growth.
The Folk system of Medicine is the system of medicine that survives as an oral tradition, particularly within rural and tribal communities. This knowledge, passed down through generations without formal written documentation, represents a rich repository of information about medicinal plants and their uses. Recognizing the importance of preserving this indigenous knowledge, the Ministry of Environment and Forest, Government of India, launched a significant initiative. This initiative resulted in the creation of the All India Co-ordinated Research Project on Ethnobiology. Through this project, a comprehensive document was compiled, detailing the plants used by various ethnic communities for medicinal purposes. This documentation effort has recorded approximately 8000 species of medical plants. Major tribal communities known for their extensive medicinal knowledge include the Irulas, Malayalis, Kurumbas, Paliyans, and Kaanis, among others, who hold invaluable insights into traditional healing practices.
Entrepreneurship is the process of developing and implementing innovative ideas to create new business ventures and enterprises. It involves identifying opportunities, taking calculated risks, and mobilizing resources to establish new economic activities. Entrepreneurship is particularly important among young people as it fosters innovation, self-employment, and economic independence. It encourages the creation of new products and services, generates employment opportunities, and contributes to economic development and social progress.
- One of the largest exported fibre of India.
- Used for safe packaging of natural, renewable, bio degradable, Eco-friendly products.
- Used in bagging, wrapping textile.
- 75% is used to prepare sack, bag.
- Manufacture of blanket, rag, curtain
- Used in textiles recently.
- One who works to create a product or service that people will buy
- He builds an organization to support the sales.
- Organic farming is an alternative agricultural system in which plants / crops are cultivated in natural ways by using biological inputs to maintain soil fertility and ecological balance thereby minimizing pollution and wastage
- Indians were organic farmers by default until the green revolution came in to practice.
- Use of bio-fertilizers is one of the important components of integrated organic farm management, as they are cost effective and renewable source of plant nutrients to supplement the chemical fertilizers for sustainable agriculture.
- Several microorganisms and their association with crop plants are being exploited in the production of bio-fertilizers.
- Organic farming is thus considered as the movement directed towards the philosophy of Back to Nature.
- It is an active component of chillies.
- It has pain relieving properties.
- It gives pungency or spicy taste to chillies.
- Pungency is measured in Scoville Heat Unit (SHU)
- Eg. Naga piper is the hottest chilly of India with 1,349,000 SHU.
- Melia azadirachta
- Neolamarkia chinensis
- Casuarina spe
- Eucalyptus spe
Purified dissolving pulp has several important industrial applications. It is used in the manufacture of rayon and artificial silk through the viscose process, which is the most common method of rayon production. Dissolving pulp is also employed in the production of various fabrics and textile materials. Additionally, it is used to manufacture transparent films such as cellophane and cellulose acetate films, which have applications in packaging and other industries. Purified dissolving pulp is further utilized in the production of plastics and other cellulose-based materials.
- Madurai Malli is the second GI Tag.
- It has thick petals, long stalk.
- Distinct fragrance is due to chemicals like jasmine, alpha terpineol.
The major tribal communities in Tamil Nadu known for their extensive medicinal knowledge are the Irulas, Malayalis, Kurumbas, Paliyans, and Kaanis. These indigenous communities have preserved traditional knowledge of medicinal plants and their therapeutic applications over generations. Their understanding of local flora and its medicinal properties represents valuable ethnobotanical knowledge that has been developed through long-term interaction with the natural environment and traditional healing practices.
- Archeo botanical evidence show the presence of black gram 3500 years ago.
- India gives 80 % of global production.
- Black gram is grown in Uttar Pradesh, Chattisgarh and Karnataka.
Fruits are rich sources of essential nutrients that contribute significantly to human health and nutrition. They contain potassium, an important mineral that helps regulate blood pressure and supports cardiovascular function. Fruits are excellent sources of dietary fibre, which aids in digestion and promotes gastrointestinal health. They also provide folic acid, a B vitamin essential for cell division and DNA synthesis. Additionally, fruits are abundant in various vitamins including vitamin C for immune function and vitamin A for vision, making them nutritionally dense foods.
- Rayon is purified dis solving pulp is used as a basic material in the manufacture of rayon or artificial silk, fabrics, transport films (cellophane), cellulose, acetate films), plastics.
- This viscose process of making rayon is the most common process.
Sustainable development of agriculture refers to farming practices that meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It involves balancing economic viability, environmental stewardship, and social equity. One of the most important components of integrated organic farm management, crucial for achieving sustainable agriculture, is the use of biofertilizers. Biofertilizers are cost-effective and renewable sources of plant nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, which can be used to supplement or replace chemical fertilizers. By enhancing soil fertility naturally and reducing reliance on synthetic inputs, biofertilizers contribute to long-term soil health, minimize environmental pollution, and promote a more resilient agricultural system, thereby supporting sustainable development.