FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK

Hello friends,

The areas of Sunderbans has been my next dream-destination.

Not that i have ever visited the place in my life. But I would definitely like to visit the place for sure.

The Sunderban forest lies in the vast delta on the Bay of Bengal formed by the super confluence of the Hoogly, Padma (both distributries of the Ganges), Brahmputra and Meghna rivers.

Just because of the simple fact that the forest provides habitat to some 453 fauna wildlife, including 290 bird, 120 fish, 42 mammal, 35 reptile and 8 amphibian species.

But the mention of Sunderbans is incomplete without the mention of the Royal Bengal Tiger (Panthera Tigris). As per census in 2011, there are only about 180 tigers that are left in the area.

Covering a total of about 9360 Sq Km spanning both Bangladesh and India, the Indian side has been a UNESCO Heritage Site since 1987.

Not only the region is rich in biodiversity, but it is also important for about four million humans, who reside in the Sunderbans.

However, alarm bells have been ringing. Climate change is affecting the Sunderbans in various ways. Rising sea levels are posing significant threats to this delicate ecosystem. The volume of water in the seas has been increasing due to melting of glaciers due to increased global temperatures. This has been causing the forest areas to be inundated in the water more frequently and for longer periods.

Frequent and persistent flooding also causes coastal erosion, which results in decline of total land area. Events like these cause people to emigrate, causing population pressures in the neighboring areas. The disappearance of islands severely threatens the survival of eclectic mix of biodiversity.

This also pushes the saline water into the rivers, which decreases the saline-fresh water available for agriculture. The area regularly experiences major tropical cyclones, which threaten the habitats of many species.

In nutshell, the climate change has been causing irreversible damages to the delicate eco-system of the Sunderbans.

And unless we take concrete steps to arrest the Climate Change, we will loose many of the species for ever.

That is a Wake-up call.

SUSHIL BHATIA

sush16534@gmail.com

ANNUAL WINTER FLOWERS FOR INDIAN GARDENS

• The most popular type of home gardens in India are annuals, i.e., ones that are raised from seeds, grow, bloom, seed & exhaust themselves during the season.
• These seasonal flowering plants have the advantage of a tremendous variety of color, size & form. They occupy the garden space in less time & can be easily replaced. Annuals can be grown in beds, herbaceous borders, as an edging, for window boxes, pots, etc.
• In India, winter is the best time to grow many different species of beautiful blooming annuals. The seeds of winter flowering annuals are sown in October-November. Some seedlings almost hibernate during the cold months of December & January & start growing as soon as the spring sets in.

Let’s have a look at some of the best winter flowering annual plants that you can grow in your home garden:

1. Alyssum: The low growing plants that branch freely with usually white flowers which are honey scented. The compact plant looks like a carpet of flowers.

2. Antirrhinum (Snapdragon): Branching annuals with numerous flowering spikes, mostly of crimson or white color. Many other colorful varieties of Snapdragon are used for bedding and pot culture.

3. Aster: China Aster is an excellent cut flower. The flower heads come in many different sizes, types & colors.

4. Calendula (Pot Marigold): The flowers vary from straw color to deep orange. This single or double flowering plant is useful for bedding, potting & for window boxes.

5. Clarkia: A hardy annual with slender branches & attractive long spikes of flowers. It can be grown as a pot plant.

6. Dianthus (Sweet William): Double or single fragrant, colorful flowers are born at the top of the branches in rounded clusters. The plant is suitable for beds, borders, rock gardens, or window boxes.

7. Hollyhock: This is a tall majestic annual. The large flowers are born in the axis of leaves all along the length of the stem. Hollyhocks can be used as a background plant, screen, open space shrubbery or annual border.

8. Larkspur: It is a very popular blue/mauve-purple/pink cut flower. The plant is grown in the background or in front of a tall hedge or border & in pots.

9. Pansy: The beautiful butterfly-like flowers are available in almost all shades of colors & their combinations & blotched, variegated, marked and stripped in contrasting colors. These low growing plants thrive well under the shade of other tall plants.\

10. Petunia: The petunias are the most popular, loveliest & a valuable race of garden plants. The flowers are trumpet-shaped & may be small or large. Petunias are classified into many different types of flowers.

11. Phlox: One of the most well known & favorite annuals grown for its brilliant display & long lasting blooming period. Flowers are delicately scented, with a wide range of colors & many are with contrasting ‘eyes.’

12. Salvia: The lost terminal spikes with tubular bright scarlet flowers are borne above the foliage.  Salvia is ideal for growing in mass, in beds, borders, background shrubbery, under trees & semi-shaded places.

13. Sweetpea: This garden climber is valued & widely cultivated for its range of flower colors, elegant form, fragrance, and utility as a cut flower.

14. Verbena: A free flowering, low-growing, spreading plant. Flowers are born in clusters with light mauve, white & pink as common colors.

15. Statice: The flowers of this plant retain their shades for a long time when dried & are used for dry decoration as ‘everlasting’ flowers

Apart from the above, many other seasonal flowering plants can be grown in winter for eg. Candytuft, Carnations, Centoria, Cornflower, Gypsophila, Nasturtium, Nigella, Poppy, etc.

TIPS FOR WINTER FLOWERS:

• As the growth of plants during winters is less, start with proper-sized ones.
• Plant according to the size of the container.
• Place your container in a place where it receives ample sunlight.
• Water your plants cautiously during winter.
• Fertilize regularly.
• Sow the seeds of your favorite flowers right before the winter sets in.
• Flowering plants need soil to be 5 inches deep. So, select an earthen pot of 6-8 inches and bury the seed about 2 inches deep.
• Saplings will emerge in about 6 weeks.
• Sprinkle water as and when required.

D. K. Sharma

            sharmadk.703@gmail.com

EDIBLE FLOWERS AND THEIR MEDICINAL USES (PART 2)

India has a variety of beautiful flowers that bloom across the season and regions. Flowers not only add colours, beauty and fragrance to the garden and surroundings but  there are many flowers that are safe for human consumption too and are widely used as main part of meal, part of salads, herbs or part of  cuisines world-wide, since ancient times. Due to their strong, intoxicating and pleasant fragrance and unique flavours, flowers are used to add aroma to beverages, bakery and confectionery food items. The flowers are used as creative and innovative culinary masterpieces.

Flowers are used to make beverages such as tisanes, vinegar and wines. Flowers are also used as spreads viz: fruit preserves, marinades and dressings.

Flowers are also consumed for sustenance. Some flowers have high nutritive value and are shown to contain high level of polyphenols and antioxidants and are known to possess anti-inflammatory and anti- angiogenic properties and have high medicinal values too

For the best flavours and results, fresh flowers harvested in early morning should be used. Wilted flowers or unopened buds of many species are bitter. Many flowers can be eaten whole while some may have bitter parts.

 If you would like to add some edible flowers to your garden, there are many great options.

Here we will discuss only few the most common and the most popular ones.

ROSE: ROSA

• Rose is a woody perennial flowering plant of genus Rosa, Family Rosaceae. Rose  is mainly grown as ornamental plant in gardens, for their colour, beauty and fragrance but it’s edible, is highly nutritious and has medicinal and cosmetic values too
• Rose petals are rich in vitamin C, are edible raw and are used in jam, jelly, marmalades and sometimes are brewed for tea. Rose petals are also pressed and filtered to make rose syrup which has medicinal and cosmetic values.
• Rose is an important component of Gulkand which is made by special pink rose petals and is good anti- oxidant and very good rejuvenator. Gulkand is also used in pans, desserts, ice creams and confectioneries. Dried rose petals are used in desserts, cuisines and Biryanis to add extra fragrance and flavour.
• Rose petals help the body maintain healthy cholesterol level.
• Rose water has a very distinctive flavour and is used in baked foods, jellies and cocktails. Its also a natural coolant. Flower stems and young shoots are also edible.
• In France, there is much use of Rose syrup most commonly extract of Rose petals.

MORINGA or Drumstick Tree

• Moringa oleifera is a draught resistant tree of family Moringaceae. The plant is native to Indian subcontinent.
• The flowers are rich in nutrients viz: Carbohydrates, fats proteins, vitamins, minerals and micro and macronutrients. Moringa trees are used to combat malnutrition among infants and nursing mothers. It provides the versatile, nutritious food source throughout the year, in various regions of the country.
• Moringa plant has numerous applications in cooking. Edible parts of the plant include whole leaves including stalks and stems, the immature green fruits, the fragrant flowers and the young seeds and roots.
• The young slender fruits commonly known as drumsticks are cooked as culinary vegetables, made use in curries and soups. The fruits are common ingredient of dals, sambhar or lentils soups. Sometimes it’s fried and served as fitters. These fitters have health benefits as they are highly nutritive. Even dried Moringa leaves are also edible and are used  by sprinkling over soups, vegetables, smoothies, yoghurts or salads. Owing to its highly nutritive value it is used as dietary supplement to enrich various food products.
• The bark sap, roots, leaves and flowers are used in traditional medicines as it has anti- viral, anti- fungal and anti- septic properties. Extract from leaves contain various polyphenols which might affect blood lipid profile and insulin secretion.

LOTUS : The Indian National Flower

• Lotus or Nelumbo nucifera is one of the aquatic plants in the family Nelumbonaceae.
• The Lotus plant is widely used in various Indian dishes and cuisines. The Rhizomes or stem of Lotus are consumed as vegetable, in soups or curries, as kebabs or koftas   in Asian countries. They are used in making pickles too.
• Fresh Lotus seeds are nutritious and are used for making desserts but are vulnerable to microbial contamination, especially fungal infection.
• The flower seeds are popped up and are called phool makhana It is used as snacks or in desserts. It has high nutritive value.
• Lotus flower can be brewed into tea which adds to the flavour and is good for maintaining Cardiac health.
• All parts of Lotus are edible with rhizome and seeds being the main consumable parts. Rhizome, leaves and seeds are used in traditional folk medicines Ayurveda and Chinese traditional medicines. The flowers are used for lowering blood sugar levels, fever, cholera, diarrhoea and hyperdipsia.
• Rhizomes are purported to have diuretic, antipyretic, anti-obesity, antioxidant, antidiabetic and anti inflammatory properties.
• Lotus seeds contain high quality proteins and are rich in variety of essential amino acids including high contents of albumin and globulin. They also contain unsaturated fatty acids, carbohydrates, vitamins, calcium, iron, zinc, phosphorus and other trace elements. Lotus seeds also contain large quantities of vitamins, including B1, B2, B6 and Vitamin E. Lotus seeds have also been shown to promote Lymphocytes formation and enhance the immune system.
• 
  Lastly, the most important one. Lotus flower has historical, cultural and spiritual significance too.

BANANA FLOWER: The Super Food

• The Banana flower has unique looks and texture. Though the chopping of banana flower is a tedious job, but once done it makes delicious sabzi, pakoras and cutlets.
• Banana flower is packed with essential nutrients and minerals, rich in proteins, vitamins, iron, phosphorus, calcium, potassium magnesium and copper, vital for several body functions. It helps in weight loss.
• Banana flower seems to be very effective in treating infections in natural ways. The extract in Banana flower has ethanol which prevents growth of pathogen bacteria.
• Cooked banana flower can help in reducing abdominal pain and supports menstrual wellness.
• According to studies banana flower extract promotes glucose uptake which in turn reduces blood sugar levels.
• Banana flower extract contains magnesium which reduces anxiety and boosts the mood. It acts as natural antidepressants.
• Banana flower contains phenolic acid, tannins, flavonoids and various other anti oxidants which neutralise the free radicals, prevent oxidative damage and reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer.
• Banana being rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants reduces stress on cells, slows down aging process and improves overall health.
• The myriads of minerals present in Banana flower stimulate healthy kidney function.
• The high content of Iron present in Banana improves Iron level and reduces anaemia and symptoms associated with it.

PALASH: The Sacred Tree (Butea Monosperma)

• Also known as Flame- of- the-forest, due to its vibrant red colour. It is native to tropical and subtropical part of India and South East Asia It’s commonly known as Tesu too.
• Palash is the tribal food in Satpura and is integral part of many regional cusines. Flowers are also used for making sherbet and are a natural coolant.
• Gum obtained from the tree, known as ‘ kamarkas’ is also used in many traditional medicinal recipes.
• 
  The Palash flowers and leaves are diuretic, astringent, aphrodisiac and increase the flow of blood in pelvic region. The seeds have purgative, diuretic to stimulate the flow of urine and have anti parasitic properties. The seed powder is used in treatment of intestinal parasites.

SUNFLOWER or HELIANTHUS

• Sunflower, genus Helianthus is an annual and perennial flowering plant in family Asteraceae. The round flowers having resemblance to sun hence commonly named Sunflower. The flowers are cultivated in tropical and temperate regions as food crop for human beings, cattle and poultry and as ornamental plant too.
• The seeds and sprouts of common Sunflower have many medicinal uses. These are known to contain many nutrients and antioxidants viz: phenolic acids, flavonoids and vitamins. The antioxidant properties serve as protective functions for cellular damage. The phytochemical constituents which include phenolic acid flavonoids and Vitamin E have many potential benefits. The Sunflower seeds and sprouts have high concentration of Vitamin A, B, C and Vitamin B12. They contain many minerals such as potassium, calcium and Iron. The Sunflower seeds also have antidiabetic and antihypertensive properties.
• Sunflower oil is having anti inflammatory effect and helps to control gastric damage and helps in healing process of microscopical and clinical wounds.

SAFFRON : Crocus Sativus

• Crocus Sativus commonly known as Saffron is a species of flowering plant of genus Crocus in Iris family Iridaceae. It is best known to produce spice Saffron from the filament that grows inside flowers. The cultivation and use of Saffron is traced back to more than 3500 years.
• Saffron is considered to be most expensive spice by weight. 50000- 70000 plants are needed to produce one pound of Saffron. Each flower produces only 3 stigmas and the flowers are to be harvested in mid morning when the flowers are in full bloom.
• Saffron is used in food to add flavour and aroma and as a colouring agent, in desserts, beverages and cuisines.
• Saffron is known to have impressive health benefits. It is a powerful antioxidant that protects cells against free radicals and oxidative stress. Saffron acts as antidepressant. It contains distinct taste and aroma that helps in uplift of mood, improves memory and learning ability. Protects brain cells against oxidative stress and progressive damage.
• It has anti inflammatory properties, helps in reducing appetite and weight loss.
• Acts as anticancer agent, lowers blood cholesterol, prevents blood vessels from clogging, controls blood sugar levels and raises insulin sensitivity.
• It helps to improve eyesight in adults.
• It is also used in treatment of anxiety and Alzheimer disease.

MAHUWA : Madhuca Longifolia

• Mahua or Mahuwa is an evergreen tree belongs to family Sapotaceae. It is adaptable to arid environment and is predominantly found in tropical forests of India. Mahuwa is the most valuable tree as it’s every part is useful.
• Mahuwa flowers are food item for tribals and are used in making syrup for medicinal purposes.
• The flowers contain high amount of sugar and are used for making jams, jelly sherbet, sweets etc. Mahuwa flowers are also used to produce an alcoholic drink called Mahua. The drink is also known to affect animals.
• The seeds are used to produce oil. Fat is used as vegetable butter and in manufacturing of soaps, detergents and in skin care products. The seed cake after extraction of oil is used as a fertilizer.
• The leaves of Mahuwa are fed on by moth which provides tasar silk.
• Leaves, flower and fruits are used as cattle feed too.
• Mahuwa fruit is an essential food of western Odisha.
• The tree has a great cultural significance too and is being worshipped by tribals.
• In some parts of Bihar, Mahuwa flowers are sun dried and ground to make flour.  flour is used for making various types of breads.
• There are many such flowers which are edible and have medicinal values too. These are only few.
• Flowers are traditional, creative centrepieces on our dining table, let us have  it to our dinner plate too.

HEALTHY EATING & HAPPY GARDENING!!

Shailja Mishra

Mishra.shailja6325@gmail.com

HAPPY DEEPAWALI

THE FESTIVAL OF THE LIGHTS

GARDENING IN NOVEMBER

• The lawns will now begin to show the effects of the cold nights and will turn brown. Reduce watering as the grass will be practically dormant.
• As the cold sets in vigorous growth of climbers will appear and should be cut back as necessary.
• Annual beds and borders should be regularly watched and casualties replaced as they occur.
• Planting of all annual flowers and vegetables must be completed this month.
• Strawberries planting should be done with.
• Some varieties of Papaya and Amla are also planted in this month. There are few varieties of Papaya like ‘Pusa delicious’ and’ Pusa Majesty ‘ which are bisexual or female. Some Hawaiian varieties like ‘solo ‘and ‘Sunrise Solo’ are also bisexual.
• Fruits available in November: Custard Apple, grapefruit, guava, mosambi, orange etc.
• Continue with foliar spray and pinching in winter annuals.
• Dahlias cuttings can be planted by the middle of November.
• To ensure a longer period of bloom it is better to plant at an interval of 15 days.

HAPPY GARDENING!!

Rama Tyagi

tyagirama1@gmail.com

HAPPY CHHAT PUJA

DEEPAWALI

THE FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

Perhaps, no other festival of India holds its place in the hearts of Indians, as , other than the festival of Deepawali.

It falls during Hindu Unisolar month of Karthik, between the month of October and November. Diwali symbolises the spiritual victory of “light over darkness, good over evil.” The festival is also associated with the godess Lakshmi, the giver of prosperity.

The Hindu religion has it that this day is celebrated on the day Lord Rama returned to his kingdom Ayodhya with his wife Sita and brother Lakshman, after defeating the evil Kind Ravana in Lanka, while in exile for 14 years.

People celebrate the festival by lighting up Diyas (oil lamps) and decorating their homes with flowers and lights. They perform worship ceremonies of goddess Lakshmi.

Diwali is followed by Govardhan Puja. Some communities mark the last day as Bhai Duj.

By whatever name we call it, every festival in the Indian culture calls for the brotherhood, peace, harmony and prosperity.

So, HAPPY DIWALI TO ALL !

Sushil Bhatia

sush16534@gmail.com

KARTIK MONTH AND PLANTS ASSOCIATED WITH IT

• Kartik Month holds utmost importance in Hinduism. It is the most auspicious and holiest month full of many festivals.
• It is the favorite month of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu and is also referred as PURUSHOTTAM MAAS or DAMODAR MAAS. 
• As per the Gregorian calendar it falls in the month of November and December.
• The word Kartik has been derived from the star named ’Krithika’.
• It marks the beginning of winter season.

INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT KARTIK MONTH

• Offering Tulsi leaves and lightening lamp every day during this month washes off sins and bring us close to God.
• It is believed that Lord Vishnu goes to sleep on Ashadha Suddha Ekadashi and wakes up on Kartik Suddha Ekadashi also known as Dev Uthaan Ekadashi.
• Bathing with chanting Lord Vishnu’s Mantras refreshes all the atomic substance of our body. It is believed that during this month, all the waters are charged with lots of energies and hence bathing becomes very important.
• Jal Abhishek of Lord Shiva is also performed
• Lightening Lamps and diyas with Ghee made out of cow milk brings prosperity, wealth, good health and also burns the material desires.
• According to Skanda Puran, Monday fasts are observed to please Lord Shiva also known as Someshwara who wears the waning moon on his hair.
• Any fast kept during this month even smallest, yields huge results. Fasting purifies our body and soul and brings us closer to deity.

FESTIVALS CELEBRATED DURING KARTIK MONTH

1. Karwa Chauth
2. Ahoi Ashtami
3. Dhanteras
4. Narak Chaturdashi Or Choti Deepawali
5. Deepawali
6. Goverdhan and Annakut
7. Bhaidooj
8. Chatt Pooja

PLANTS WORSHIPPED DURING THIS MONTH

TULSI

Tulsi, also known as Holy Basil is a fragrant perennial plant commonly found in Indian Subcontinent. It is the symbol of purity, holiness and presence of divinity.It is a shrub with hairy stem. Leaves are either green or purple in colour and are petioled and oval in shape.There are seven types of Tulsi namely, Shweta, Shyama, Maruta, Davna, Kudherak, Arjak and Shatapatra.It is widely used as a medicinal herb. It helps in cleaning the blood thereby helping in heart related issues. It treats Kidney stone, fights acne, relieves headache, fever, treats respiratory disorders, treats insect bites, thyroid, diabetes, prevents hair fall and dandruff, weight loss, soothes eyes etc.Tulsi is regarded as a sacred plant in Hinduism. It is believed to be avatar of Goddess Laxmi and hence is treated as partner of Lord Vishnu. No offering to God especially Lord Vishnu is complete without Tulsi leaves. Followers of Hinduism make sure to grow Tulsi at their home. As per Vedas, Tulsi is also called Vaishnavi, HariPriya, vrinda, Vishwapavani etc. 

TULSI AND MYTHOLOGY

As PerDevi Bhagwat Puran, Goddess Laxmi was born as Tulsi to Dharmadhvaja, Son of King Vrishadvaja who was cursed by God Surya that Goddess Laxmi will abandon him. Tulsi went to Badrinath to pray and get Lord Vishnu as her husband. Lord Brahma fulfilled her wish nut asked her to marry King Shankhchuda first. He followed Dharma religiously and after winning the 3 worlds, he out drove Gods and raised a war with Lord Shiva and Vishnu. During the war, Lord Vishnu asked Tulsi to aboandone her earthly presence. In anger, Tulsi cursed Vishnu and made him into stone which resided near river Gandaki. It is believed that River Gandaki is remains of Tulsi and Lord Vishnu turned as stone is called as SHALIGRAM. 

According to some other mythological literature, Tulsi was different from Goddess Laxmi and was born as Vrinda to King Kalanemi. She was pious and devotee of Lord Vishnu. She got married to demon Jalandhar. To destroy Jalandhar, Lord Vishnu disguised as Jalandhar and performed rituals with Vrinda. On knowing the truth, Vrinda cursed Lord Vishnu and transformed him to stone known as SHALIGRAM. Later she immolated herself with her husband’s funeral pyre but Lord Vishnu ensured that she was reborn as Tulsi on earth.

Another mythological text states that Tulsi was born out of the happy tears of lord Vishnu that fell in the Amrit Kalash that came out of churning the cosmic ocean.

TULSI VIVAH is marriage of Tulsi with Shaligram( Lord Vishnu) and is performed anytime between Prabodhni Ekadashi and Kartik Poornima.It resembles any Hindu marriage and fast is observed o the day of marriage. Tulsi plant is dressed as a bride and is offered sari and ornaments. The groom is stone called Shaligram or Lord Vishnu’s idol. They are tied with cotton thread to symbolize their wedding.

AMLA

Amla is derived from Sanskrit word amalika and is known as Indian Gooseberry.Amla is a small to medium deciduous tree with small light green colour leaves set closely to branches. The flower is greenish yellow and the fruit is round in shape and has lots of medicinal properties like immunity booster, rich source of vitamin C, helps in good digestion, improves lever health, good for hair growth, improves kidney health etc.Reference of Amla is found in Buddhist texts too. It is believed that half of it was final gift to Buddhist sangha by the great emperor Ashoka. Also, it is regarded as the tree of enlightenment. Amla can be eaten raw or cooked into various dishes. Sweets can be made like amla candy and murabba.Amla can be used in hair shampoos and oils, hair colour, inks and as a fixer of colours.It holds spiritual significance as well. In Hinduism, Amla is considered sacred and it is believed that Lord Vishnu dwells in it and that is why it is considered to cure most of the ailments.As per some mythological texts, amla tree was germinated out of the tears from the eyes of Lord Brahma while he was praying Lord Vishnu. AMLA NAVMI is celebrated on the ninth day of shukla paksh of Kartik month. It is celebrated 9 days after Diwali. On this day, devotees pray Amla tree and Goddess Laxmi to seek their blessings. It is believed that Goddess Laxmi started worshipping and eating under the Amla tree. Eating under the tree, solves the problem of poverty and fulfills all the wishes of a devotee.

LOTUS

Lotus is an aquatic plant. Its roots are planted in soil of pond and the leaves float on the water above it. In northern hemisphere, its growing season is from April to September. The tubers are not cold resistant but can be saved if roots are safeguarded from the frost.

Lotus’s flower, seeds, leaves and some part of rhizome is used for medicinal purpose. The flower helps in stopping bleeding, decrease swelling, kills cancer bacteria, helps in controlling blood sugar level, aids weight loss, protect heart and blood vessels, etc.

 Lord Buddha is often seen sitting on Lotus symbolizing that he has overcome the pains of material world and is enlightened just like the Lotus grows in dirt and mud and surpasses it to become a beautiful plant. Even Hindu Gods are shown sitting or standing on Lotus flower for the same reason.

Offering Lotus of 108 petals on Diwali to Goddess Laxmi is considered to be very auspicious and brings prosperity and good luck.

According to Hinduism, Lotus depicts eternity, purity, divinity, fertility and symbol of life.

According to Bhagwad Gita , humans should be like Lotus, work without attachment towards material things, dedicate yourself to God and rise like lotus rises in mud.

Goddess Laxmi is said to have emerged from Lotus that grew from the forehead of Lord Vishnu.

Goddess Durga was created by Lord Shiva to fight with the demons and upon winning she was adorned with Lotus garland By Varun Deva.

Goddess Saraswati is associated with White Lotus.

DOOB GRASS

Native to Indian Sub-continent, it is also called as Durva, hariyali, Bermuda grass etc. It grows naturally in India in open grasslands, farms etc.

Doob grass is nutritious, cheap and is commonly used as cattle feed.

It is natural remedy to treat insomnia and fatigue. Its consumption on daily basis relieves stress and cures nervous breakdown

Doob is very dear to Lord Ganesha. According to Hindu texts, after eating whole beast Analasur, Lord Ganesh started feeling burning sensation. To relieve him, Kashyap muni and other sages showered 21 stackes of doob grass and he got relieved. Since then it became lord Ganesha’s favourite herb.

BANANA

A very common fruit, banana is elongated and curved fruit with starchy flesh.

Banana is rich in Vitamin B6 and helps in producing red blood cells, metabolizes carbohydrates, fat and amino acids.

Banana is rich source of Manganese and aids in good skin.

It is rich source of Potassium and its peel water is used to boost flowering and fruits in plants. It is best organic form to provide potassium to plants.

It aids digestion and beat gastrointestinal issues like constipation, stomach ulcers and heatburn.

According to religious texts, banana is regarded as Brihaspati Dev or planet Jupiter.

It is sacred tree and symbolizes Lord Vishnu and is offered to him for healthy and prosperous life.

In Ayurveda, banana flower and stem is used to treat diabetes and the sap is used as astringent to treat leprosy, epilepsy and insects bites.

Banana tree is also associated with fertility and bounty.

In Bengal, during Durga Pooja, Goddesss Durga is made out of banana plant draped in yellow saree with red border and is known as Kola Bau.

Hope the readers get good and some new information about plants and their religious significance. Stay connected and keep reading to know more and more.

Happy Reading n Learning!!

Sugandha Singhania

sugandhacpsinghania@gmail.com

HAPPY BHAI DOOJ

Tales of Trees in Indian Culture

Tree number 3: Coral Jasmine or Parijat

Commonly known as Harshingar or Parijat

Latin Name:  Nyctanthes arbor tristisE

nglish Name: Coral Jasmine

Indian Names: Bengali: Shephalika,Siuli.

Hindi:  Harsingar.

Sanskrit: Parijat.

 Tamil: Parijat ,Paghala

                                                    Family: Oleaceae

• There are many stories and references about the tree in the Puranas and Mahabharat.
• It is said to be one of the five divine trees that came out of Sagar Manthan. Lord Indra then planted it in his garden. It is the only flower that is picked from ground and is offered to God.
• One of the stories from ancient text is:  Princess Parijat was a very beautiful and sensitive princess who fell in love with Surya, the Sun God. She persuaded him to leave heaven and stay with her. But soon Sun got tired of earth and returned to sky. She followed him but intense heat of sun burnt her. Surya turned to Gods for help. The Gods granted her another life and she reincarnated as a tree. From her ashes arose a tree which had pure white flowers with blazing orange hearts. A symbol which was imbedded in her heart. The Sun God visits her during night and flowers are fragrant because they have been kissed by Surya. She still can’t bear the rays of the sun and first stroke of dawn they shed. They shed like tears of pain and spread sweet fragrance all over.
• Another story is from Mahabharat. Once Narad Muni visited Lord Krishna with flowers of parijat from the garden of Indra. With mischief in his eyes, he asked him to give it to his wife Rukmini. Krishna was very pleased and went to Rukmini’s chambers. Narad in the meanwhile, went to Satyabhama and said “I had brought Parijat flowers from Indra ‘s garden .I told lord to give it to his favorite wife. I thought you would enjoy this gift but he has gifted it to Rukmini”. Satyabhama being short tempered wanted the tree now. Lord Krishna had to steal this tree from Indra’s garden as Indrani also loved the tree and at no cost would have parted it with. So in order to please both wives, Lord Krishna got the tree planted in Satyabhama’s garden in such a way that flowers fell in Rukmini’s garden. So Lord Krishna kept both wives happy.

Description & Various Uses of the tree

• Small quick growing deciduous tree.
• The leaves are large and ovate shaped.
• The seven petal flower bloom in a bunch .They are star-like creamy flowers with orange throats and tubes.
• Flowers open in the evening and spread fragrance in the air .They fall off at day break.
• The tree has many medicinal properties. It is anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and antihelmentic. It is used to treat fever, fungal infections, sciatica pain (leaves juice) and also anti dote for snake bites
• The leaves are used as sandpaper too.
• Bark is used for tanning leather.

Rama Tyagi

tyagirama1@gmail.com

TOMATO – APPLE OF PARADISE

• Only about 130 years ago tomato was considered poisonous.  Because of this belief people who suffered from joint problems were advised against eating tomatoes. Later studies revealed that tomatoes have invaluable nutritional and health-giving qualities.
• Tomatoes are high in vitamin A & E and rich in potassium and calcium. They contain high amounts of citric and malic acid and some oxalic acid also.  These organic acids are needed for maintaining optimum metabolic levels. Cooking makes these acids inorganic.
• Tomatoes are a good blood purifier.  A gentle stimulant for kidneys, they wash away the toxins from the body.
• Tomato is very good for urinary disorders.  It restricts the acid value of urine so it reduces the chances of any infection and formation of stones.
• Vitamin A, which is present in tomatoes, helps in eye infections also.
• Good news for over-weight people.  One or two ripe tomatoes taken early morning instead of breakfast, for a few months, will not only supply essential food elements but will reduce fat also.  It is a very safe way of losing weight. 
• Raw tomato juice is very good for the system and has an alkaline effect, but with starch or sugars, it can have a definite acidic effect. Tomato juice enhances the resistance power in the system. Raw juice of tomato has a very beneficial effect on the digestive system. The manganese content of juice helps digestion. A mixture of carrot, spinach and tomato juice will help a great deal in anemia especially in elderly people and small children.
• Its high alkaline properties maintain the alkaline balance in the body. A glass of tomato juice taken early morning will strengthen the liver and help in constipation and digestive disorders.  The juice, mixed with a little honey taken at bedtime is considered highly beneficial for tuberculosis and asthma.

STAY FIT AND HEALTHY!!

Dr Seema Sud,

Diet and Nutrition consultant

Yogacharya and landscaper

Mob.989952149

WINTER CARE OF PLANTS

Many popular houseplants come from tropical regions of the world, so they do well especially when you place them outside during summer to soak up some extra humidity and warmth. But just like it’s best to gradually move them outdoors in spring to avoid problems like sunburn, it’s also important to give your plants a little extra care before you transit them back to indoor life. While some types of plants can cope better with big changes to light and temperature, others may throw the botanical equivalent of a temper tantrum by withering and dropping their leaves. Here’s how to bring your houseplants inside again once temperatures start dropping.

• Give Houseplants Time to Acclimate: Once pests are under control, slowly acclimate your plants to lower light levels by putting them in a shaded spot for a couple of weeks before moving them inside. After that, check them once more for any pests and treat again if needed. If your plants have gotten a little overgrown, now’s also the time to trim them back a little and remove any dead leaves so you can keep the mess outside.

• Cut Back on Water and Fertilizer: Once your plants are back inside, think of winter as their rest period after a busy summer of growing, and maybe even flowering in some cases. While they don’t go completely dormant, many tropical houseplants naturally slow their growth during the colder months. This means they don’t need as much water or fertilizer as they did during the warm growing season. Instead, hold the nutrients until spring and keep your plants watered just enough so they don’t dry out completely.

• Provide Light and Humidity: Even though your houseplants are resting, they still do need bright, indirect light. Because days get very short in winter, you might want to consider supplementing with grow lights. And while your plants don’t need as much watering, they do appreciate a little extra humidity, given that most heated homes have very dry air in winter. Use a humidifier or mist your plants daily, especially if you notice leaf tips turning brown and crispy.

How to Overwinter Tender Garden Plants

Many perennials, shrubs, and vines in your garden or containers can actually be kept alive in your home over the colder months and brought back outside in spring, too. Although most of these plants prefer a cool location during the day and 10 degrees lower at night, they will tolerate warmer indoor conditions. When you bring them inside, cut them back slightly; this helps control size and encourages new growth that will be better adapted to life indoors. Repeat the process in spring when you take the plants back outside, to help them acclimate to being outdoors again. Otherwise, the same tips for bringing in your houseplants apply to the following types of popular plants that you can overwinter indoors.

• Angel’s trumpet (Brugmansia selections)
• Begonia (Begonia selections)
• Citrus (including lemons, calamondins, and kumquats)
• Coleus (Solenostemon selections)
• Geranium (Pelargonium selections)
• Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis varieties)
• Impatiens (Impatiens selections)
• Mandevilla (Mandevilla selections)
• Passionflower (Passiflora selections)
• Pentas (Pentas lanceolata)
• Rosemary(Rosmarinus officinalis)

Rama Tyagi

tyagirama1@gmail.com

THE TEAM BEHIND

“THE HFS TIMES“

Mrs Rama Tyagi            Director HFS

Mr. Som Dutt Tygi          Advisor                          

Gp Capt Sushil Bhatia     Chief Editor

Ms. Vandana Bhatnagar    Editor and Content Provider

Ms Sugandha Singhania Asst Editor

Ms. Shailja Mishra          Editor and Content Provider

Mr. Sandeep Rohilla      Executive & Marketing Editor

Ms. Sonia Agrawal          Creative Editor

Mr. Devraj Singh             Technical Head