<I>Coptis teeta</I> Wall. - an Important and Valuable Medicinal Plant of Arunachal Pradesh and its Cultivation

Abstract

Coptis teeta Wall.- a small perennial herb popularly known as Coptis or Mishmi tita is an important medicinal plant used for various diseases. The specific name Tita has been derived from its bitter taste. It is found in India only and occurs in temperate regions of five districts of Arunachal Pradesh. Over last few years, its cultivation has been taken up by local people in Arunachal Pradesh and on a limited scale in Nagaland. The Forest Department, Arunachal Pradesh has also taken up its cultivation. It can be cultivated by seedlings raised from seed or from wildings. The crop mature in 6-10 years depending upon source of planting materials. Harvesting is done during winter season. On an average 124 kg dry rhizome per hectare is harvested with a spacement of 30 × 30 cm. The net income from one hectare is obtained around Rs. 16,800/- (Yearly income Rs. 1680/-).