Taxus wallichiana Zucc.: The Himalayan Yew

Abstract

The Himalayan yew (Taxus wallichiana Zucc) species are found in the forests of the Indian Himalayan region, in which it grows in altitudes from 1800 to 3300 m above mean sea level as a slow-growing understory plant. Several studies have reported the medicinal uses of Himalayan yew. Taxus Wallichiana Zucc has received wide focus within the scientific community, as its leaves and bark have been found to contain high concentrations of “Taxol.” The latter is well-known for its anticancerous properties and proven efficacy in treating several cancers including breast and ovarian cancers. Because of its high commercial value and medicinal application, there are increased demands for this plant. Large-scale deforestation of the Himalayan yew for the production of Taxol has consequently threatened the plant’s existence. Consequently, the Himalayan Yew is now considered endangered on the IUCN red list, and its use for Taxol produced is severely monitored. This chapter reviews the chemistry, biology, and botanicity of the Himalayan yew as well as its benefits and health-promoting properties.