Ecological Studies of Nardostachys grandiflora: An Endangered Medicinal Plant of Sikkim Himalaya

Abstract

Nardostachys grandiflora is a perennial rhizomatous herb found in the alpine part of Sikkim and is known for its medicinal and aromatic properties. Collected for its rhizome, N. grandiflora is used to cure conditions including neurosis, insomnia, convulsions, epilepsy and heart palpitations. It is also a source of fragrant oil, which is used in high-quality fragrances, incense and as a flavoring ingredient. Popular in local communities, this species is in danger of extinct, due to its over-collection, habitat degradation, and climatic changes. Due to its isolated habitat and small population, research on this species is very low and infrequent. Thus, an attempt was made to understand the population distribution of N. grandiflora in the alpine regions of Sikkim. The study reveals low population densities in all of the sites of observation. However, two studied sites in the North districts and one site in the East district showed very low population densities and importance value index of N. grandiflora. Therefore, urgent action and conservation measures must be taken to protect the highly endangered Himalayan plant.