Survey, Collection and Conservation of Commiphora wightii (ARN.) Bhandari - an Important Medicinal Plant Heading towards Extinction

Commiphora wightii (Arn.) Bhandari, a balsamiferous woody shrub has remained an important component of many medicinal formulations since 2000 B.C. for the oleo-gum resin Guggulsterone, E and Z, the two important isomers, confer lipid- and cholesterol-lowering, and anti-cancerous properties to guggul gum. Tapping of oleo-gum resin is usually done by local and tribal people adopting unscientific methods which generally results in the deathof plants. Rajasthan, Gujarat and Haryana, three hot spot diversity rich Indian states were covered during survey, exploration and collection assignment of guggul for analyzing the extent of genetic variability as well as their socio-economic importance. A total of 78 accessions, both wild and cultivated, were collected from surveyed regions and 52 of them could be established in the green house by ischolar_mained cutting method. Attempts were also made to establish the species in vitro however limited success could be achieved. During the survey, sizable variations were recorded in morphological and geographical traits in different accessions. Modern as well as traditional potential applicability of this rocky desert medicinal plant was explored and investigated during this mission.