Agro-techniques for Umbelliferous Medicinal and Aromatic Plants of India

This book has been written primarily for the students of Horticulture/Agriculture, research workers and growers, and provides useful information on Medicinal and Aromatic plants of Umbelliferae to develop improved technology to enhance the productivity or these plants. There are a number of books on Medicinal and Aromatic plants containing general information about their history and importance but they lack in production technology. However, a few books contain research-based information and no doubt these are excellent. The writing of this book was originally undertaken at the invitation of University Grants Commission, New Delhi as a part of their programme for the preparation of university level books by Indian authors. Umbelliferae family comprises about 300 genera and 3000 species of herbs some of which are economically well known. The most important among these are Ajowan (Grachyspermum Ammi L.) Syn. (Carum copticum L.); Cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) Dill seed (Anethum graveolens L.); Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Gearten); Anise (Pimpinella anisum L.); Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Gearten). Anise (Pimpinella anisum L.); Honey plant (Ammi majus L.); Asafoetida (Ferula asafetida L.) and Angelica (Angelica archangelica L.). In the literature, it is reported that the yield of these Plants is very low due to lack of commercial and systematic cultivation of these crops. It is an established fact that cultivation of these plants with improved technology helps in bringing about an overall improvement in production and yield of their oil. Very scantly information is available in the literature regarding production technology of these crops. Besides, whatever information available is generally meager and scattered. An effort has been made to compile the scattered information in this book, which can be used as reference material in the universities and colleges. This book will also provide the latest information on improved cultivation technology to research and extension workers and growers of these crops.