Distribution, Quantification and Selection of Superior Quality Germplasms of <i>Oroxylum indicum</i> (L.) Kurz (Shyonak) in Different Forest Divisions of Uttar Pradesh

Abstract

Oroxylum indicum, an important medicinal native plant (family Bignoniaceae) is distributed throughout the country up to an altitude of 1200 m and found mainly in ravine and moist places in the forests. The species was once distributed throughout the great parts of India but now it is listed amongst endangered species in many areas of the country. An attempt has been made to survey the medicinal plant species in its natural habitat in the state of Uttar Pradesh; mapping of the germplasm distribution and to select the superior quality germplasms by analysis of its active constituents. The survey of plants of O. indicum was carried out during the DST sponsor project period April, 2016 to March, 2018 in elevation between 62 m. amsl to 660 m. amsl. A total of 46 locations were explored in different forest divisions (10). And occurrence of the species was found in 17 locations. The maximum average population per km was found in Behraich Forest Division. On the basis of analysis of active constituents per cent i.e. Chrysin, Baicalein, Oroxylin-A, Six samples (numbered 19, 17, 14, 12, 9 and 18) were found better and therefore screened out from the 15 samples; which will be recommended for further conservation and multiplication in Uttar Pradesh