Healing from the Roots: India’s Medicinal Plants, Superfruits, and Sacred Herbs explores India’s rich tradition of plant-based healing, where Ayurveda, folklore, spirituality, and modern science intersect. The book presents carefully curated profiles of medicinal plants, sacred herbs, and nutritionally powerful fruits such as Aak, Ajwain, Aloe vera, Anaar, Aonla, Bel Patra, Brahmi, Brahma Kamal, Barberry, Ber, and others that have long been used in traditional health systems.
Each chapter highlights the botanical identity, cultural and religious significance, phytochemical composition, therapeutic properties, traditional applications, and scientifically supported health benefits of these plants, along with relevant safety considerations. Emphasis is placed on immunity enhancement, digestive health, metabolic balance, mental well-being, cardiovascular support, and disease prevention.
Written in a clear and accessible style, this book serves as a valuable reference for students, researchers, Ayurveda practitioners, healthcare professionals, and readers interested in natural and holistic wellness. It encourages a renewed appreciation of India’s botanical heritage and its relevance in contemporary health and lifestyle practices.
Vikas Sharma: Division of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-J), J&K, India
Shivangi Sharma: Division of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-J), J&K, India
Komal Sudan: Division of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-J), J&K, India
Chapter 1. Aak: The Unexplored Plant
Chapter 2. Ajwain - Treasure of Nature
Chapter 3. Aloe Vera: The Magical Herb
Chapter 4. Anaar: A Food of Gods
Chapter 5. Aonla: A Nature"S Boon
Chapter 6. Apricot - Egg Of The Sun
Chapter 7. Bel Patra - A Deeply Revered Leaf & A Myriad Of Nutrients
Chapter 8. Barberry: A Treasure Trove
Chapter 9. Ber (Indian Jujube): An Ignored Super Fruit
Chapter 10. Bhang: Medicinal Uses & Side Efects
Chapter 11. Bichu Butti - An Extraordinary Herb
Chapter 12. Branker: A Local Shrub
Chapter 13. Brahma Kamal - A Flower of Legends And Lore
Chapter 14. Brahmi: The Holistic Herb
Chapter 15. Buch Plant - A Wonderful Medicinal Herb
Chapter 16. Cobra Lily: A Gift for Holistic Health
Chapter 17. Curry Patta: A Common Medicine
Chapter 18. Gul-E-Khatmi - The Queen of Tropics
Chapter 19. Gul-E-Z of A - The Holy Herb
Chapter 20. Haand: King of the Weeds
Chapter 21. Hansraj - The Majestic Fern
Chapter 22. Harad: The King of Medicines
Chapter 23. Kalazira: A Wonder Spice
Chapter 24. Kali Mirch: King of Spices
Chapter 25. Kalonji: The Miracle Seed Spice
Chapter 26. Karela: Health Perks
Chapter 27. Keeda Jadi: The Himalayan Gold
Chapter 28. Lasoda: A Human Illness Medication
Chapter 29 .Mentha Species: Medicinal Properties
Chapter 30. Mullein – A Tonic for Lungs
Chapter 31. Neem: A Magical Plant
Chapter 32. Ratanjot - A Natural Wonder
Chapter 33. Saffron - The Red Gold
Chapter 34. Sohanjana: The Miracle Tree
Chapter 35. Stevia: The Herbal Sweetener
Chapter 36. Patta: A Favourable Herb
Chapter 37. Thalkudi: A Brain Food
Chapter 38. Timbru: The Divine Plant
Chapter 39. Tulsi: Queen of Herbs
Chapter 40. Zakhm-E-Hayaat: A Rhizomatic Herb