The current investigation deals with the study of phytochemical screening, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities of Pelatantheria insectifera, an endangered epiphytic orchid species. Four different fractions i.e. Metahnol, n-Hexane, Butanol, and Dichloromethane (DCM) of the leaf, stem, and root of P. insectifera were considered for bioactivity test following standard protocol. The qualitative test for alkaloid and ten other secondary metabolites of this orchid showed positive results for alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, steroids, coumarins, and terpenoids. Antioxidant activity of the Butanol-1 fraction of leaf showed the highest scavenging activity of 98.95% at concentration 250 μgml-1 compared with the highest scavenging activity of Ascorbic acid (99.69% at concentration 250 μgml-1). On the other hand, the antiinflammatory activity of P. insectifera was evaluated using heat-induced albumin denaturation assay and the experiment revealed that the DCM fraction of root showed the highest inhibition measuring 73.50%, whereas Aspirin, a standard anti-inflammatory drug showed 52.12% inhibition against egg albumin denaturation. These results indicate that orchid species may prove as a promising source of bioactive agents which can be used for treating several kinds of ailments related with inflammatory complexity.
Shimla hills are part of NorthWestern Himalayas and are well known for their diverse habitats, climatic conditions, and rich biodiversity; this area has mainly evergreen forests including dry sub-tropical forests and moist temperate evergreen forests. However, only terrestrial orchids have so far been recorded from here. As nature of substratum (soil) is an important factor affecting vegetation in a given area, soil profiles were presently analysed so as to determine the actual ecological preferences of different selected orchid species. It was observed that orchids were distributed from shady, semi-shaded and moisture rich area to dry and open grassland fields along roads or embankments with slightly acidic to alkaline soil pH. Substratum was found to be rich with Carbon, Nitrogen, Potassium, and Calcium and poor with Sodium, Sulphur, and Phosphate contents. After soil profiling a standard nutrient media can also be devised for their successful in vitro species specific asymbiotic seed culture, mass propagation, and conservation.
Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential of Dendrobium moschatum fractions of root, stem, and leaf was investigated. The dried samples of these parts were extracted with Butanol-1, DCM (dichloromethane), n-Hexane, and Methanol fractions. Both Methanol fraction of root [IC50 (inhibition concentration 50 µgml ) = 30.21 µgml ] and leaf (IC50 = 31.54 µgml ) possessed the most efficient antioxidant potential (free radical scavenging assay of DPPH) which was closely followed by DCM fraction of leaf with an IC value of 33.78 µgml-1. The least antioxidant activity (albumin denaturation technique) was seen in the n-Hexane fraction of leaf and IC value was 94.74 µgml-1. The lowest anti-inflammatory potential was shown by n-Hexane fraction of both root (IC = 71.80 µgml-1) and stem (IC = 71.21 µgml-1) while the highest anti-inflammation was demonstrated in root by Methanol fraction with an IC -1 value of 39.01µgml-1 closely follow in leaf by Butanol-1 fraction whose IC50 value was 39.00 µgml , n-hexane fraction (IC50 = 39.21 µgml ), and methanol fraction (IC50 = 39.79 µgml-1). Hence, the results indicated that leaf part showed the most prospective anti-inflammatory activity. From the present study, it may be concluded that the plant has great medicinal potential and further researches are needed to explore its potential.
https://doi.org/10.64873/JOSI.v35.i1-2.19-23
Himachal Pradesh, situated between the latitudes 30°22' to 33°12' N and longitudes 75°4' to 79°4' E, supports natural, unique, and socio- economically important orchids represented by 84 species in 43 genera. Vanda cristata commonly known as Comb Vanda and Comb Trudelia, is an epiphyte with high medicinal and horticultural values. It is used as tonic and expectorant and also to treat fever, cough, bronchitis, tonsillitis etc. It also has anticancerous and antibacterial properties. Because of the over-exploitation for the medicinal properties of this plant, natural populations are declining at a very rapid pace. Keeping this in mind, presently an attempt was made to culture immature seeds procured from green capsules (27 wap) on half and full strength MS (Murashige and Skoog, 1962) nutrient media augmented with different growth hormones such as auxins (NAA- 2.6 µM and 5.3 µM) and cytokinins (BAP- 2.2 µM and 4.4 µM) for its mass propagation. Cent per cent germination was observed in all the nutrient combinations of both half and full strength MS media. ½MS basal medium showed earliest seed germination (9.25±0.25 days), favoured formation of green and healthy protocorms. MS medium supplemented with NAA (5.3 µM) induced early rooting and complete seedling development was observed in 61.25±0.47 days of inoculation. In another experiment, 2-3 leaved shoot buds were subcultured on ½MS medium supplemented with auxins (NAA- 2.6 µM and 5.3 µM /or IAA- 2.8 µM and 5.7 µM) to assess the effect of these hormones on the rooting of V. cristata. ½MS medium augmented with IAA (5.7 µM) was observed as an optimal nutritional combination for early root formation (5.25±0.25 days). The protocol can be successfully utilized for rapid mass multiplication of V. cristata and aid in alleviating the collection pressures on its natural populations.
Orchids, belonging to family Orchidaceae, hold highest position in the evolution of monocots and are well known for their beautiful long lasting flowers and medicinal properties. The orchids exhibit tremendous medicinal properties due to the presence of a wide variety of chemical compounds; however, scientific advancement on most of the medicinal orchids remains largely unstated. The present paper provides an overview of some important medicinal orchids of Indian Himalayan region and suggests that extensive research is required for the characterization, commercial extraction, and purification of a wide range of biologically active compounds, present in orchids. More rigorous scientific validation of medicinal orchids is required, along with standardization of extract preparation method. This will stimulate herbal based novel drug discovery and will extend the scope of therapies using potential orchids of Himalayas. The present paper highlights various conservation issues/options along with the need for developing best package of practices for cultivation, mass multiplication, in vitro production of secondary metabolites, promotion of indigenous species for trade, and inventorization of orchid species both at the regional and national level. These efforts would be beneficial for the conservation of this unique group of plants for sustainable development of Himalayan communities.
The paper describes in vitro culture protocol of floriculturally and medicinally important orchid Rhynchostylis retusa using leaves as explants. Leaf explants from 16-18 wks old in vitro cultures were inoculated on Mitra et al. (1976, M) medium supplemented with growth regulators such as auxins and cytokinins (2 mgl-1 each), both singly and in combinations. The regeneration response frequency and time taken for the development of plantlets varied with the growth stimulus. In the basal medium, the leaf explants remained recalcitrant to regeneration, turned brown, and perished within 40 days. Additional presence of AC in the medium proved effective for initiating regeneration response via callusing and PLBs formation, at the basal end. Presence of IBA, NAA, and IAA+KN in the medium proved ineffective for initiating regeneration response. NAA and KN (2 mgl-1) when used together in the medium, acted synergistically; cent per cent explants initiated regeneration response (8.75±0.25 days) via formation of callus, shoot buds and PLBs at abaxial and adaxial surface of leaf explants. Multiple PLBs were formed when the medium was augmented with KN. Development of PLBs with profuse growth of absorbing hair was observed in medium containing IBA+KN. Based on the present observations, basal medium supplemented with NAA and KN (2 mgl-1 each) is suggested as optimal nutrient medium for initiation, and multiple shoot formation via PLBs and healthy plantlet development.
https://doi.org/10.64873/JOSI.v35.i1-2.47-53
The orchids are highly evolved group of flowering plants known for their immense beauty and utility and are still under active state of speciation. Ban Oak (Quercus oblongata D.Don) forests are rich in orchid resource and exhibit incredible range of diversity in shape, size, and colour of their flowers. They are important aesthetically, medicinally, and also regarded as ecological indicators. Present study has been conducted in the Ban Oak forests of Himachal Pradesh to assess the distribution pattern and indigenous practices of terrestrial orchids. Rapid sampling was done for qualitative analysis and 22 orchids of 18 genera have been found to grow in the Ban Oak forests. The species were analysed for nativity, endemism, indigenous uses, and threat categories. Amongst the species, 1 species was endemic and 7 species were near endemic; 17 and 5 species were native and non-natives respectively, to the Indian Himalayan Region. Four species were used against bronchial, orthopaedic, and urinary disorders, 5 species against cardiovascular and gastroenterological disorders, 2 species against dermatological disorders, 8 against influenza like illness, 3 against immunological, sexual, and neurological disorders, and 1 against mental disorders. But, unfortunately, rapid decline of orchid populations was noticed due to massive anthropogenic pressure causing habitat degradation. Monitoring of habitats, mapping of populations of orchid species, and awareness among the local inhabitants and officials of the Forest Department and conservation are suggested.
Satyrium nepalense, a medicinally important terrestrial orchid, thrives in the Himalayan foothills including Kasauli hills of Himachal Pradesh (NorthWestern Himalayas). Terrestrial orchids are uncommon and vulnerable as they flourish in specialized, sparsely dispersed environments and many important terrestrial species are being destroyed as a consequence of commercial collection pressures and anthropogenic impacts on their specific habitats. Due to its endangered status, mass multiplication protocols were successfully established using in vitro asymbiotic seed germination technique and regeneration potential for this species. Mitra et al., 1976 medium was used for both the experiments of seed germination and regeneration. Auxins [Indole 3 Acetic Acid (IAA), Indole 3 Butyric Acid (IBA), 1-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA)] and cytokinins [Kinetin (KN), Thidiazuron (TDZ), 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP)], each at a concentration of 1 mgl-1, were also employed individually or in combinations. Activated Charcoal was also added to the culture media at concentration 2 gl-1 in order to track its impact on the growth and development of cultures. The mature seeds from ripe and dehisced capsules were used during the present investigation. Early onset of germination was observed within 10.00±0.40 days on medium containing AC+BAP. IBA when used in AC enriched medium, synergistic action was apparent; seeds germinated within 18.50±0.28 days and healthy seedlings were obtained in 70.25±0.47 days. For regeneration, leaves (0.4-0.6 cm long) procured from 16 wks old in vitro grown plantlets were used as explants. Interestingly, regeneration occurred through shoot buds, PLBs and callusing, depending upon the nutrient combination used. The combination containing IAA and AC proved as the optimal nutrient combination for inducing regeneration via both shoot buds and PLBs formation and subsequent development of healthy plantlets with 2-3 tubers (40.25±0.47 days). The main objective of the present study was to ensure better frequency of germination of seeds and reduce the time laps between pollination and sowing of seeds. Leaf explants have been effectively used for in vitro propagation of the presently investigated species, Satyrium nepalense and such studies may be extended to other related orchid taxa.
In the pre-historic and pre-vedic period coinciding with the major centres of the civilization revealed by the remains found in India and Pakistan representing Mohenjodaro-Harappa especially that found at Rakhigarhi had existed as early as seventh-sixth millennium BC. Vaidyaka Shastra- a non-Aryan System of Treatment existed during this period, the antiquity of which could be traced back to Shiva’s period about 5,500 BC. Later, it was merged with Ayurveda, when Ashwani Kumar brothers, Indra, and Divodas (Dhanwantari) had enriched the system. Ashwani Kumar, the Vedic period physicians were the first to discover the Ashtavarga i.e., 8 plant species, which included four orchids, to restore the frail and emaciated body of rishi Chayavan and constituted the well-known Chayavanprash and world’s first ever used nutraceutical by about 4500 to 3500 BC. These four temperate orchid species were Crepidium acuminatum, Habenaria edgeworthii, H. intermedia, and Malaxis muscifera. In India, 116 orchid species are being used as Ayurvedic or ethno- medicines. Commercialization of important medicinal orchids needs several initiatives simultaneously to gain success in this endeavor. However, this activity will benefit society in three ways, employment generation, improving grower’s economy, and providing health care.
Papilionanthe teres was observed to exhibit intraspecific colour variations in its natural populations of West Bengal. Variations were observed in floral parts such as sepals, petals, and lip. The normal floral colour was light pink or purplish and flower lip was purplish red with yellow base and lined with purplish brown colour. The plant that showed variations was observed with flowers having white lip with yellow spur and all other floral parts were comparatively larger in size. Papilionanthe teres was observed to exhibit intraspecific colour variations in its natural populations of West Bengal. Variations were observed in floral parts such as sepals, petals, and lip. The normal floral colour was light pink or purplish and flower lip was purplish red with yellow base and lined with purplish brown colour. The plant that showed variations was observed with flowers having white lip with yellow spur and all other floral parts were comparatively larger in size.
Rhynchostylis retusa, a valuable ornamental, medicinal, and endangered orchid is rich with bioactive compounds which are potential raw
materials for pharmacological utilization. In the present study, application of organic additives for the enhancement of seed germination and
seedling formation in the species was assessed through asymbiotic culture and an efficient protocol for its rapid propagation using
immature seeds procured 8 wks after pollination (wap) was developed. Four different nutrient media namely Mitra et al. (M, 1976), Modified
Knudson C (KC, 1946), Murashige and Skoog (MS, 1962), and Vacin and Went (VW, 1949) were used to investigate the effects of different
organic additives i.e. Yeast Extract (YE; 1 gl-1), Peptone (P; 1 gl-1), Casein Hydrolysate (CH; 1 gl-1), and Activated Charcoal (AC; 2 gl-1)
during asymbiotic seed germination and subsequent seedling development. The seeds of the presently investigated species successfully
germinated in all the nutrient media used. Highest seed germination (88.00%) and early seedling formation (129.50±0.64 days) was
observed in VW medium followed by M (87.25%; 137±0.47 days), MS (79.25%; 148±0.40 days), and KC (73.75%; 157.25±0.47 days)
media respectively. Based on present results, the optimal nutritional combination during germination, growth and subsequent development
into seedlings of R. retusa is suggested as VW medium supplemented with P (1 gl-1). An efficient propagation protocol formulated for the
species may be utilised as a useful guide for similar studies in other related orchids.
https://doi.org/10.64873/JOSI.v35.i1-2.99-107
The present study was conducted to develop a protocol for an efficient in vitro mass propagation of two floriculturally important and threatened wild orchids namely Arundina graminifolia and Cymbidium aloifolium. Seeds were cultured on six different nutrient media, full and half strength MS (Murashige and Skoog, 1962) both in semi solid and liquid form, VW (Vacin and Went, 1949) semi solid medium, and KC (Knudson, 1946) semi solid medium. Maximum germination (89.75%) and early protocorm development (83.00%; 26.80 days) of C. aloifolium were recorded in half-strength MS liquid medium. Maximum germination (89.87%) in A. graminifolia was noticed in half-strength MS semi-solid medium and early and maximum protocorm formation (86.25%; 23.83 days) was first observed in half-strength MS liquid medium.
Orchids comprise one of the largest families of flowering plants covering 10% of the flowering plants in India. Like other parts of the Indian Himalayan Region, Himachal Pradesh also supports unique orchid flora. The location, climate, and topography of Himachal Pradesh are endowed with a rich and diverse life form. In the present investigation, extensive field surveys were conducted during 2018-2020 to study the diversity, indigenous uses, and conservation status of orchids of Kareri lake and Triund hill in Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh. During the exploration of floristic diversity, a total of 10 orchid species under 9 genera {Crepidium, Disnia, Epipactis, Goodyera, Habenaria, Herminium, Platanthera, Satyrium, Spiranthes) belonging to sub-families Orchidoideae and Epidendroideae were recorded from the study area. A major problem with fieldwork is that in the tropics in a given month, only the species (typically between 10 and 20%) are found in the flowering stage. The flowers are essential for us to describe a species, because many orchids may have similar vegetative parts (leaves and stems) while their flowers are highly different. Hence, it is preferable to explore any area for orchids during their flowering time, accordingly. In this communication, geographic distribution along with the detailed description and photographs for the recorded species are provided.
The current study was undertaken to evaluate the phytochemicals (qualitative and quantitative) and antioxidant activity of leaf, bulb, and root extracts of Eria lasiopetala. The qualitative analysis was determined by standard methods and the results confirmed the presence of terpenoids, coumarins, quinines, flavonoids, phenols, and saponins in all the three extracts of this orchid species. Quantitative estimation of total phenol, flavonoid, and tannin contents were ascertained by using standard methods. The maximum amount of phenol, flavonoid, and tannin contents were found in the leaf methanolic extracts as 54.81±7.7 mg GAEg-1, 108±1.70 mg QEg-1 and 80±5.49 mg TAg-1 respectively. DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl) radical scavenging assay was used for determining the antioxidant activity of both methanolic crude extracts and four fractions [DCM (Dichloromethane), n-Hexane, Methanol, and Butanol] of leaf and root. The percentage of scavenging of DPPH free radical was found to be concentration dependent. Amongst all the samples, the most significant antioxidant activity was found in Butanol-1 and DCM extracts of bulb (IC50 value of 19.22 µgml and 23.68 µgml-1 respectively). However, the present investigation showed that the Eria lasiopetala is a reservoir of the phytochemicals and it can be utilized for the development of phyto-therapeutics.
Orchidaceae is one of the families of plant kingdom that requires substantial conservation. Several epiphytic orchids have been found in tea gardens of foot-hills of Himalayan region in West Bengal, India. During the present field study in randomly selected 14 tea gardens of Terai region of West Bengal (New Chamta, Sannayasithan, Singhia Jhora, Kiran Chandra, Naxalbari, Vijoy Nagar, Atal, Hansqua, Gangaram, Dagapur, Sukna, Kamalpur, Gulma, and Mohorgaon), 12 species in 9 genera were recorded. Oraon and Kharia tribal communities are very popular in this region and utilize all these epiphytic orchids as medicine. Different plant parts such as root (6 species), leaf (7 species), pseudobulb/or stem (2 species), flower (3 species), and whole plant (2 species) are used for medicinal purpose. Fidelity level which expressed relative healing potential of medicinal plants was also calculated. Cent per cent fidelity value has been recorded in Bulbophyllum crassipes. According to IUCN Red List of threatened species (Version 2019-3), Dendrobium aphyllum is Least Concern (LC) species. Most of the epiphytic orchid species are facing threats in the tea garden region of Terai due to deforestation of old shade trees and lopping. Host-less epiphytic orchids should be transplanted on proper phorophytes (shade tree) in the tea garden. There is an urgent need to create awareness amongst people of the region about these orchids growing in tea garden of Terai region of West Bengal, India so as to preserve biodiversity and maintain a balance in the ecosystem.
Four species of Dendrobium Sw. i.e. D. indragiriense Schltr., D. salaccense (Blume) Lindl., D. cathcartii Hook.f., and D. haemoglossum Thwaites under its section Grastidium (Bl.) J.J.Sm., known in India are enumerated here. A new subspecies under D. haemoglossum collected from the Similipal forest in Odisha is also described here.