Investigations on reproductive biology genetic variation and medicinal properties of Saussurea obvallata in Uttarakhand

Abstract

In this thesis, study has been carried out on the reproductive biology, genetic diversity and medicinal properties of Saussurea obvallata (DC.) Edgew. (Brahma Kamal) from Uttarakhand. Saussurea obvallata (S. obvallata) is the State flower of Uttarakhand and is an important species due to various properties. It is used in different traditional medicinal systems. For example, it is used by the local people of Uttarakhand, China, and Tibet for the treatment of various diseases. The plant also holds sacred value in this region as it is offered in different temples like Kedarnath, Badrinath, Triyuginarayan, and others. Exploitation for different purposes has put a lot of pressure on the species and their populations are diminishing in nature. The species is deeply connected to the life of locals of Kedarnath valley. In the present investigation, S. obvallata has been observed as a source of income to the people of this region. The decline in numbers and reduced size of populations of the species in its natural habitat is a matter of urgent concern, and prompted us to undertake this investigation. During this study, data have been generated on phenology, morphology, pollination biology, breeding system, genetic diversity, and medicinal properties, etc. newlineData on phenology, morphology, pollination biology, and breeding system were recorded in the natural habitat of the species in Kedarnath valley. The flowers bloom in July and continue up to the last week of September. May to September, a period of favorable temperature and climate provide optimal conditions for S. obvallata to complete reproduction. Fruiting phase in the form of cypsela follows flowering. The plant body consists of a perennials rhizome and a leafy shoot. There are about 8 to 12 individual capitula in a complex capitulum (inflorescence). Flowers are arranged in a typical capitulum, and contain only hermaphrodites flowers. Within all capitula, peripheral florets open first, followed by the central ones. Within the compound capitulum, the