Tree or Shrub Jatropha curcas L.: Biofuel and Potential Herb

Abstract

An attempt was made to update on review available literature on unique and potential herb of Jatropha curcas L. (Jatropha) for augmenting renewable energy source, genetic improvement and production of biodiesel from seed oil. Jatropha. curcas has spread beyond its original distribution because of its low moisture demands, pure hardiness, easy propagation, drought endurance, high oil content, low seed cost, short gestation period, rapid growth, adoption to wide agro-climatic condition, bushy/shrubby nature, tangible and intangible benefits of ecology and environment and it also used as a multifunctional plant for traditional medicine, bio-pesticide, land erosion control, live hedge, oil for lighting and soap making as well as alternative energy sources because it is non-toxic and biodegradable. Due to the concern on the availability of recoverable fossil fuel reserves and the environmental problems caused by the use those fossilfuels, considerableattention has been given to biodiesel production as an alternative to petrodiesel. Indeed, various important roles of Jatropha such as its application, extension, agroforestry systems, carbon sequestration, medicinal properties, agro-industrial solid waste, bio-fuels and by products, income and risks, which needs to be exploited well for its beneficial role in tropical environment. These issues are dealt herewith to observe its future scope to mitigate energy crisis, environmental management and sustainable productions.