Medicinal Roots and Tubers for Pharmaceutical and Commercial Applications

Roots and tubers of medicinal plants are essential for providing mechanical support, producing growth regulators, and storing food. They also contain bioactive compounds that have health benefits, such as antioxidative, antimicrobial, hypoglycaemic, hypocholesterolaemic, and immunomodulatory properties. Roots of many medicinal plants have been used for the treatment of disease and the formulation of drugs, and they are also known for their commercial value. This book provides information on the medicinal properties of roots and tubers and various phytochemicals derived from them, with a focus on their pharmaceutical and commercial applications. It is valuable for scientists, researchers, and students working on medicinal plants, economic botany, chemistry, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and many other interdisciplinary subjects.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 03 November 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Medicinal plants are incredibly valuable for their diverse range of therapeutic properties. One of the most important components of these plants are their roots and tubers, which play crucial roles in supporting plant growth, producing essential growth regulators, and storing food. Moreover, these plant parts contain a wealth of bioactive compounds that have been shown to offer numerous health benefits.

Roots of many medicinal plants have been used for centuries to treat various diseases and formulate drugs. These roots are rich in various phytochemicals that possess potent antioxidant, antimicrobial, hypoglycemic, hypocholesterolaemic, and immunomodulatory properties. For example, the roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice, have been used in traditional medicine to treat respiratory disorders, heart disease, and diabetes. Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, is another well-known medicinal plant with roots that are used in Indian cuisine and traditional medicine to treat inflammation, pain, and digestive problems.

In addition to their medicinal properties, roots and tubers of medicinal plants have significant commercial value. They are used as ingredients in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries due to their therapeutic benefits and unique properties. For instance, the roots of Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, are used in the production of ginger tea, ginger supplements, and topical treatments for inflammation and pain. The tubers of Beta vulgaris, commonly known as beetroot, are used in the production of food coloring, dietary supplements, and beverages.

Furthermore, there is ongoing research into the potential of different roots and tubers for their industrial applications. For example, the roots of Boesenbergia pandurata, commonly known as the horseradish tree, are used in the production of pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and fragrances. The tubers of Houttuynia cordata, commonly known as the snake gourd, are used in the production of textiles, food additives, and herbal remedies.

In conclusion, medicinal plants' roots and tubers are vital components that provide mechanical support, produce critical growth regulators, and store food. These plant parts contain a wealth of bioactive compounds that have been shown to offer numerous health benefits. Roots and tubers of medicinal plants have significant commercial value and are used as ingredients in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Ongoing research into the potential of different roots and tubers for their industrial applications is promising, and there is potential for further development in this field.

Weight: 570g
Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032280387