Plants: Faith and Medicine

This book, "Plant, Faith and Medicine" deals with twenty plants, from among many others, regarded as sacred by our sages and revered by Hindus. Various legends and myths associated with them are mentioned along with their symbolism and use in different rituals. Each plant description deals with some early history, its description and distribution, its symbolism, mythology, use in rituals, general use and its use in medicine. Efforts have been made to include information on as many aspects as possible, and material has been gathered from diverse sources which include old treatises, folk tales, religious rituals, and personal contacts. Their uses in daily life and in medicine have also been mentioned. It is hoped that this book will generate a kinship of the readers with plants and trees, and will promote an understanding that will help in preserving the diversity and ecological balance in nature.