Neha Yadav, Ajay Kumar, Mamta Sawariya, Heena Gulia, Naveen Kumar and Sunder Singh Arya
Abstract
Orchids are the largest and most diverse family of flowering plants, with over 25,000 species. They are found in a wide range of habitats, from tropical rainforests to alpine tundra. In India, orchids are found in all climatic zones, from the Himalayas to the deserts. Orchids are economically important plants, both as ornamentals and for their medicinal properties. They are also threatened by habitat loss and over-harvesting. In India, over 250 species of orchids are threatened. This review provides an overview of the diversity, conservation, and medicinal uses of orchids in India. It discusses the different types of orchids found in India, the threats they face, and the efforts being made to conserve them. It also discusses the traditional medicinal uses of orchids in India, and the scientific evidence for their efficacy. The review concludes by calling for increased research on the medicinal properties of orchids, and for more effective conservation measures to be put in place. This article also talks about how orchids were used in traditional medicine, how endangered they are, and how species can be protected where they grow.