NISCAIR Online Periodicals Repository Collection: IJTK Vol.04(3) [July 2005]

Traditional technologies in the improvement of breeds of livestock in Tamil Nadu

Tue, 28 Jun 2005 22:58:59 GMT

Title: Traditional technologies in the improvement of breeds of livestock in Tamil Nadu

Authors: Karthickeyan, S M K; Gajendran, K

Abstract: Animal husbandry has been practiced in India since time immemorial. Among different species of livestock kept by farmers, cattle and buffaloes are maintained by maximum numbers in varying combinations. Earlier various methods were used for the improvement of the breeds of livestock. Tamil Nadu is endowed with some recognized breeds of cattle (5), buffalo (1), sheep (8) and goat (1), besides many non-descript domestic animal species. There are certain traditional background in the evolution and existence of these breeds. Selection of animals and planned mating were evolved in earlier days itself. Further, efforts are being made by the farmers to change their sire in the herd / flock for improvement even with out knowing the underlying principles. Indigenous technical know-how used for the improvement of breeds of cattle, buffaloes, sheep and goats and pigs in Kerala have been discussed.

Page(s): 303-306

In vitro antibacterial activity of Takrarishta – An Ayurvedic formulation

Tue, 28 Jun 2005 22:58:59 GMT

Title: In vitro antibacterial activity of Takrarishta – An Ayurvedic formulation

Authors: Bhardwaj, Sandeep; Achliya, Girish S; Meghre, Vijaya S; Wadodkar, Sudhir G; Dorle, Avinash K

Abstract: Takrarishta is an Ayurvedic formulation which contains Go-Takra (buttermilk prepared from curd of cow’s milk), Amla, Harda, Marich, Ajowan, Saindhava namak, Sauvarcala namak, Bida namak, Audbhida namak and Samudra namak and is indicated against haemorrhoids, worm infestation, loss of appetite, irritable bowel syndrome and diarrhoea. In present investigation, Takrarishta formulation has been screened for antibacterial activity against ten bacterial species namely Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhi, Bacillus subtilis (MTCC 441), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MTCC 424), Proteus vulgaris (MTCC 1771), Micrococcus luteus (MTCC 1541), Bacillus cereus (MTCC 430) Escherichia coli (MTCC 739), Shigella flexneri (MTCC 1457) and Clostridium perfringens (NCIM 2677). The formulation as well as individual component exhibited antibacterial activity against different strains. The formulation has been suggested to be useful in gastrointestinal (GI) infections and in the condition of food poisoning.

Page(s): 325-328

Traditional uses of plants in curing jaundice in the Pin Valley National Park, Himachal Pradesh

Tue, 28 Jun 2005 22:58:59 GMT

Title: Traditional uses of plants in curing jaundice in the Pin Valley National Park, Himachal Pradesh

Authors: Sekar, K Chandra; Srivastava, S K

Abstract: The paper provides traditional uses of few plant species in curing jaundice by the local community residing in and around Pin Valley National Park, Lahaul & Spiti in Himachal Pradesh. Their uses along with the dosages and combination with other plants are provided.

Page(s): 314-316

Aesthetic values of selected floral elements of Khatana and Waghai forests of Dangs, western Ghats

Tue, 28 Jun 2005 22:58:59 GMT

Title: Aesthetic values of selected floral elements of Khatana and Waghai forests of Dangs, western Ghats

Authors: Kumar, J I Nirmal; Soni, Hiren; Kumar, Rita N

Abstract: Plants are an integral part of Indian life and culture and are worshipped among various tribes in India. Plant worship has also played an important role in the religious history since time immemorial by the Aryan race in India. The ancient Indian culture flourished in the midst of forests. Since plants of forests are the oldest associates of man, they are offered in worship of several deities. Such plants are used for religious performances among all races of mankind. The present article deals with some important and common plants, such as dicots like Aegle marmelos Correa ex Roxb., Ficus benghalensis Linn., Mangifera indica Linn., Ocimum sanctum Linn., Sesamum indicum Linn., Cocos nucifera Linn. and monocots like Musa paradisiaca Linn., Cynodon dactylon Pers. and Oryza sativa Linn.. These plants are found in wild as well as grown in a close vicinity of tribal folk of Khatana and Waghai forests of Dangs forest, which falls on the extreme northern part of western Ghats of India, one of the biodiversity Hotspots of the world. These plants have some special significance with respect to their description in various old scriptures, folk religions, mythologies, folk songs, etc. These plants are also used in offerings, rites, rituals, traditions, customs and decorations. Some sacred plants with aesthetic values have got particular attention as they are worshipped as symbols of Gods and Goddesses in both the forest areas.

Page(s): 275-286