Digitalis and Taxus baccata

Medicines From Plants

By Johan Simith

Foxglove leaf and foxglove leaf extract have long been used as a herbal remedy to treat heart problems. Taxol was discovered when scientists representing the National Cancer Institute in the United States performed a survey of plants looking for new chemotherapy drugs. By destroying so many natural habitats around the world humans are almost certainly denying themselves the opportunity to find many new medicines in plants.

Scientists have identified many medicinal chemicals in plants, and there are probably many more still to be discovered. Digitalis, which strengthens and slows the heartbeat, is found in foxgloves. Taxol, which is used as an anti-cancer drug, is found in yew trees.

Digitalis and Foxgloves

Digitalis is obtained from the leaves of the foxglove plant and is a type of cardiac glycoside. Cardiac glycosides are drugs prescribed to treat atrial fibrillation and congestive heart failure. Digitalis is generally prescribed in a form known as digoxin.

The common foxglove has the scientific name Digitalis purpurea. Foxgloves are tall plants with rows of beautiful, tubular flowers ranging in color from purple to white. The flowers frequently bear spots.

Although digitalis is a helpful drug it must be used in the correct dose. It’s dangerous if too much is ingested. In addition to digitalis, foxglove contains other chemicals which are biologically active and are toxic to humans and animals. The entire foxglove plant is poisonous.

How Does Digitalis Work?

In atrial fibrillation, the heartbeat is rapid and irregular. The inefficient pumping of the heart increases the risk of a stroke. Digitalis helps treat atrial fibrillation by increasing the action of the parasympathetic nervous system on the heart. One job done by this division of the nervous system is to slow the heartbeat

In congestive heart failure, the heart is unable to pump enough blood around the body. As a result, blood may back up in the blood vessels, causing fluid to leave the blood and enter the tissues. Fluid may build up in the lungs, the arms and legs, the digestive tract and the liver. This fluid buildup is called edema. Digitalis increases the amount of calcium in the heart cells. Increased calcium leads to a stronger heartbeat. Since digitalis strengthens the contraction of the heart, the heart can pump more blood and edema is reduced.

Digitalis Toxicity

A patient taking digitalis has to be monitored carefully. A dose of digitalis that can cause digitalis toxicity is not much larger than a therapeutic dose. Someone suffering from digitalis toxicity may experience loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. There may be confusion, an irregular heartbeat and vision problems. Vision may be blurred and objects being viewed may have a yellow tinge, a condition known as xanthopsia. The person may also see halos of light around objects. In addition, he or she may experience depression and hallucinations.

Taxol and Yew Trees

Taxol was discovered in the bark of the Pacific Yew tree in the 1960’s. Its name is derived from Taxus brevifolia, the scientific name for the Pacific Yew. Taxol is most abundant in yew bark but is present in the needles as well. Recently taxol has also been found in a number of fungi.

At first the use of taxol was controversial, since removing the bark from yew trees to extract the taxol kills the trees. In addition, Pacific Yew trees are slow growing and new trees cannot quickly replace trees killed for taxol extraction. Nowadays taxol is obtained by a cell culture method that doesn't involve killing yew trees.

How Does Taxol Work?

Taxol is used to treat several different cancers, including breast cancer, ovarian cancer and one type of lung cancer (non-small cell lung cancer). It’s also used to treat AIDS-related Kaposi’s sarcoma. Taxol, which is also known as paclitaxel, is used on its own or it is used in combination with other chemotherapy drugs.

Just before a cell divides its nucleus divides, a process known as mitosis. Structures called microtubules play an important role in mitosis. Microtubules form during mitosis, and once mitosis has finished they break down. Taxol stops microtubule breakdown, thereby interfering with the process of mitosis. When mitosis is inhibited cell division is inhibited too.

Cancer cells multiply rapidly compared to most body cells and so they have a high rate of mitosis. Therefore taxol effectively acts as an anti-tumor drug.

Taxol Side Effects

Unfortunately taxol can also prevent the division of normal cells in the body that divide rapidly, such as the bone marrow cells that produce blood cells. One of the side effects of taxol may be a low red blood cell count (resulting in anemia), a low white blood cell count (which can lead to increased infections) or a low platelet count (which can lead to an increased risk of bruising and bleeding).

There may be additional side effects, but not everyone will experience them, or the side effects may be minor. It’s impossible to predict ahead of time how severe the side effects will be for a particular patient, but quite often people find taxol treatment less unpleasant than other chemotherapy treatments. Additional medications can often relieve the side effects that do appear.

The most common side effects of taxol treatment include low blood counts, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, temporary hair loss (until the taxol treatment is topped), mouth sores, muscle or joint pain, numbness and tingling. Other possible side effects are fluid retention in the feet, ankles or abdomen and nail darkening.

Some people have an allergic reaction to taxol, but this is usually not due to the taxol itself but due to the substance used to dissolve the taxol so that it can enter the bloodstream. Taxol is not water soluble. Doctors generally prescribe steroids to reduce the chance of an allergic reaction when taxol is given to a patient.

Mr. Sheikh Gulzaar is a research writer in Jammu and Kashmir Medicinal Plants Introduction Centre. More details: http://jkmpic.blogspot.com  was established in 1993. The institution also provides planting materils of all herbs, and Taxus baccata, Digitalis purpurea, Ginkgo biloba, Podophyllum hexandrum, Lavatera cashmeriana, Origanum vulgare, Phytolacca acinosa, Rheum emodi, Sambucus nigira, Saussurea costs, Solanum  nigrum, Hyoscyamus niger. 

Pyrethrum-Chrysanthemum cinerariaefolium, plants/seeds for sale

The plant is economically important as a natural source of insecticide. The flowers are pulverized and the active components called pyrethrins, contained in the seed cases, are extracted and sold in the form of an oleoresin.

Pyrethrum (Chrysanthemum cinerariaefolium, Family Asteraceae) is a perennial African plant with daisy-like appearance and white, pink or red flowers. The same species is also known as Pyrethrum roseum, Chrysanthemum coccineum, Tanacetum coccineum, or simply, the Painted Daisy. The flower is good for use as a long-lasting cut flower. The plant will re-bloom in late summer if pruned.

This is applied as a suspension in water or oil, or as a powder. Pyrethrins attack the nervous systems of all insects, and inhibit female mosquitoes from biting. When not present in amounts fatal to insects, they still appear to have an insect repellent effect. They are harmful to fish, but are far less toxic to mammals and birds than many synthetic insecticides and are non-persistent, being biodegradable and also breaking down easily on exposure to light. They are considered to be amongst the safest insecticides for use around food.

Pyrethroids are synthetic insecticides based on natural pyrethrum: an example of one is permethrin. A common formulation of pyrethrin is in preparations containing the synthetic chemical piperonyl butoxide: this has the effect of enhancing the toxicity to insects and speeding the effects when compared with pyrethrins used alone. These formulations are known as synergized pyrethrins.

Pyrethrum plants and seeds are available at:
The Jammu and Kashmir Medicinal Plants Introduction Centre
"Ginkgo House", Azizabad, Via Wuyan-Meej Road, Nambalbal, Pampore PPR JK 192121
Ph: 09858986794/01933-223705
e-mail: jkmpic@gmail.com
home: http://jkmpic.blogspot.com/
 

Salvia officinalis seeds for sale

Sage Seeds-Salvia officinalis :Extrakta has a higher essential oil content (1.5-2%) and is higher yielding than common sage. Use fresh or dried to flavor chicken, sauces and dressings. Perennial plants grow to 2.5 feet tall. They have fragrant gray-green leaves and attractive blue flower spikes in early summer.

Packet is 1/2 gram, about 50 seeds.
Open-pollinated. Untreated. No GMO's

More details: The JK Medicinal Plants Introduction Centre
"Ginkgo House", Azizabad, Pampore PPR JK 192121
Ph: 09858986794/01933-223705
e-mail: jkmpic@gmail.com

home: http://jkmpic.blogspot.com

Salvia sclarea leaves/seeds for sale

Clary has been perceived both as a weaker version of sage (Salvia officinalis) and also as a significant herb in its own right. An antispasmodic and aromatic plant, it is used mainly to treat digestive problems such as wind and indigestion. It is also regarded as a tonic, calming herb that helps relieve period pain and pre-menstrual problems. Owing to its oestrogen-stimulating action, it is most effective when levels of this hormone are low. The whole plant, and especially the leaves, is antispasmodic, appetizer, aromatic, astringent, balsamic, carminative, pectoral and tonic. It is useful in treating disorders of the stomach and kidneys and is a valuable remedy for complaints associated with the menopause, particularly hot flushing. It should not be prescribed for pregnant women. The leaves can be used fresh or dried, for drying they are harvested before the plant comes into flower. The seed forms a thick mucilage when it is soaked for a few minutes in water. This is efficacious in removing small particles of dust from the eyes. The essential oil is used in aromatherapy. Its keyword is "Euphoric".

Propagation of Clary : Seed - can be sown in situ during spring. Alternatively seed can be sown in August/September to overwinter, it will then produce larger plants Thinnings can be transplanted. The seed remains viable for 3 years.

More details about Salvia sclarea leaves/seeds

Head, JK Medicinal Plants Introduction Centre
POB: 667 GPO Srinagar SGR JK 190001
Ph: 09858986794
e-mail: jkmpic@gmail.com
For more details: http://jkmpic.blogspot.com

Lepidium meyenii-Maca seeds for sale

Maca seeds
Latin name: Lepidium meyenii
Synonyms: Lepidium mayenii
Family: Cruciferae
Medicinal use of Maca : Maca is a little known herbal remedy and high energy food. It is growing in popularity due to its energizing effects, fertility enhancement and aphrodisiac qualities. Other traditional uses include increasing energy, stamina and endurance in athletes, promoting mental clarity, treating male impotence, and helping with menstrual irregularities and female hormonal imbalances including menopause and chronic fatigue syndrome.The roots are antifatigue, aphrodisiac, nutritive, immunostimulant, steroidal and tonic. Maca, as with all crucifers, contains glucosinolates and isothiocyanates which have been shown to exhibit anticarcinogenicity by blocking formation of endogenous or exogenous carcinogens and so preventing initiation of carcinogenesis. Naturally occurring and synthetic isothiocyanates are among the most effective chemopreventive agents known. A wide variety of isothiocyanates prevent cancer of various tissues including the rat lung, mammary gland, oesophagus, liver, small intestine, colon, and bladder. Non-published data suggests Maca has this same effect. Surprisingly, there is no apparent traditional use of Maca in the treatment of cancer. In traditional Peruvian herbal medicine, Maca is used as an immunostimulant and in the treatment of anaemia, tuberculosis, menstrual disorders, menopause symptoms, stomach cancer, sterility and other reproductive and sexual disorders as well as to enhance memory. A chemical analysis conducted in 1981 showed the presence of biologically active aromatic isothiocyanates, especially p-methoxybenzyl isothiocyanate, which have reputed aphrodisiac properties. Initial analysis of Maca indicate that the effects on fertility are a result of the glucosinolates. Alkaloids are also present, but have not yet been quantified.(263). There are reports that this plant can cure many problems of infertility.

Habitat of the herb: Barren steppes, tundra and alpine plains, usually in limestone and clay soils, 3800 - 4800 metres.

Edible parts of Maca: Root - cooked. Sweet and pleasantly flavoured. They can be slowly baked. After being dried they are cooked in water to make a sweet aromatic porridge that is called "mazamorra" in S. America. The nutritional value of dried Maca root is high, resembling cereal grains such as maize, rice and wheat. It has 59% carbohydrates, 10.2% protein, 8.5% fibre and 2.2% lipids.(263) It has a large amount of essential amino acids and higher levels of iron and calcium than potatoes.(263) Maca contains important amounts of fatty acids including linolenic, palmitic and oleic acids. It is rich in sterols and has a high mineral content as well. The root resembles a small pear in both size and shape and is up to 8cm in diameter. The dried root contains about 13 - 16% protein and is rich in essential amino acids. The fresh root is unusually high in iodine and iron. The root does also contain small amounts of alkaloids, tannin and saponins. The dried roots store well, 7 year old roots still had 9 - 10% protein. Dried roots are brown, soft and sweet with a musky flavour, they retain their flavour for at least 2 years. Young leaves - raw or cooked. A hot cress-like flavour.

Propagation of the herb: Seed - sow spring in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Division in spring.

Maca Seeds
Our Price: 2500/- 50 seeds per Pack
Availability: Usually Ships in 7 to 10 Business Days
More details:
Jammu and Kashmir Medicinal Plants Introduction Centre
Silk Road (Kashmir China Road), Sonamarag, JK
POB: 667 GPO Srinagar SGR JK 190001
Mob: 09858986794
Ph: 01933-223705
e-mail: jkmpic@gmail.com
More details : Maca seeds

Jalil Ahmad Andrabi

On January 29, 1996, Jaleel Andrabi, a senior lawyer and prominent human rights activist, had just come back from Geneva, where he had spoken out against the rights violations in Kashmir.

The same day, a vehicle had driven up to his house. Two men walked up to the door and said their father had been set afire by the Army at Pulwama, that he had survived and been admitted to a hospital in Srinagar. They said their mother and sister were waiting outside, and wanted to consult him (Jaleel) on what could be done legally.

Andrabi asked them to meet him in the High Court. Just then, his brother Manzoor, who had gone to the doctor, returned. He told Andrabi that the only people waiting outside were three armed men. At this, the men left hurriedly in a taxi. The family made a note of the registration number—JKT 1988.

The next day, the same people came knocking at the door. By now, Andrabi was apprehensive. Andrabi’s wife was the one who went to speak to the men at the door.

As she was telling the men that they should come to court to meet her husband, Andrabi went up to the attic with a camera. The men saw him clicking photographs, and started gesticulating. But neighbours had gathered by now and the men had to flee. The next day, Andrabi released their pictures to the newspapers

In the days following the two visits, Andrabi spent much of his time at the High Court, arguing a case where he had sought to ensure that people detained in the state were not taken to jails outside J&K. The state had appealed the order and it had come up before a division bench of the High Court.

Andrabi had asked his brother Arshid Andrabi to accompany him to court. At lunch, Andrabi pointed to the man sitting on an adjacent table, a “notorious” Ikhwani (surrendered militant working with the security forces) named Sikandar. Andrabi told Arshid the man had been shadowing him for some time. He said if he could be followed to the High Court there was no way he could be safe in the state, he needed to leave for a while.

“He stayed in Delhi for over a month. He met the press, talked to a few embassies, I think he annoyed the

Buy Howthorn seeds

government further,’’ says Arshid. In March, Andrabi came back to the Valley to be with his family for Eid.

On the day of Eid, 8 March, 1996, while heading home with his wife, his Maruti car was allegedly stopped by an Army contingent led by Major Avatar Singh near Parraypora on Airport road.

They seem to have been waiting for Andrabi. There were three vehicles parked there, a one-tonne Army truck that had ferried the 20 or so Armymen accompanying the officer, their officer’s jeep and a private vehicle, the family said.

Andrabi was asked to get out of the car and taken into custody. His wife, who could not drive, was left behind. She waved down an autorickshaw and tried to give chase, but the vehicles were moving too fast. The same evening, a case of abduction was filed at a nearby police station.

The High Court Bar Association moved a petition in the state High Court the next morning. The Army and the BSF filed replies denying Andrabi had been picked up by their men.

On 27 March, 19 days after the abduction, a college student named Abid Hussain, a resident of Kursu Rajbagh, a locality that lies by the Jhelum, went to the banks of the river early in the morning. According to his deposition, he saw a body floating down the river. It got entangled with the lines of two boats anchored ahead and drifted towards the bank. Soon, more people gathered there and pulled the body ashore. The upper half of the torso was covered with sackcloth tied around the waist by a rope. As soon as the sackcloth was removed, most of the men there were able to identify the body—Jaleel Andrabi had lived in that neighbourhood for over a decade at one point of time.

Andrabi had been shot in the head and his body bore marks of injuries that suggested he had been beaten and tortured. The post-mortem suggested he had died about two weeks before the body was found.

Arshid was among the people called to identify the body. Soon after Andrabi’s body was found, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed by the J&K Police; it did not take them long to connect Sikandar Ikhwani to the abduction.

On 5 April 1996, just about a week after Andrabi’s body had been found, seven more bodies were found at Pampore. Among the dead was Sikandar Ganiae, the Ikhwani. When the police spoke to Sikandar’s widow, Hameeda, she told them that Sikandar and his associates had been summoned by another Ikhwani, Muhammed Ashraf Khan alias Umer, to an Army camp in Rawalpora, headed by a man named Major Avtar Singh of 35 Rashtriya Rifles.

Six months later, the police were finally able to trace Umer. His statement was recorded before a magistrate and it implicated Major Avtar Singh in the murder of not just Jaleel Andrabi, but also Sikandar and his associates. According to Umer, in March 1996, Avtar Singh and Sikandar picked up a man dressed in a suit-and-tie and brought him to the camp. They were accompanied by “Suken, Balbir Singh, Waid, Doctor who was an Army Doctor and Mushtaq Haider etc.’’

Umer goes on to state that the man in the suit argued with these men, questioning why he had been abducted and brought to the Army camp. He was beaten up and locked in a room. Shortly after, Avtar Singh came and told Umer that the man they had picked up was a famous advocate named Jaleel Andrabi, who works against the Army. The same evening, Umer said, he heard cries and shouts from the room where Andrabi was confined. Then there was the sound of a gunshot.

For the first few days after Andrabi was shot, Umer said, the Ikhwanis did not turn up at the camp. A worried Avtar Singh sent him along with Suken and Balbir Singh in search of Sikandar. They located him and told him to report to the camp. The next day, Sikandar came to the camp accompanied by three men and a driver. They were told to leave their weapons at the gate on the pretext that the commanding officer was expected on a visit. They sat down to drink with Avtar Singh, and after an hour or so, were asked to come into the dining room. Umer, who claimed to be standing on the verandah, saw Avtar Singh, the Army Doctor and the other men named earlier overpower Sikandar and his colleagues and tie them up with ropes. They then shut the dining room door. The next day Sikandar and his colleagues were found dead.

On 10 April 1997, the SIT set up by the J&K police filed its report before the court, naming Avtar Singh. The court directed the Union government to impound the Major’s passport or prevent him from being issued one. The court also asked for the service files of the Major within four weeks.

In 2000, the SIT finally told the court what should have been verified much earlier—that Avtar Singh was still in Ludhiana. Soon after, despite the court orders, Avtar Singh was able to obtain a passport and leave the country ad settled in California (USA).

Major Avtar Singh left India after allegedly murdering Andrabi in March 1996. He went to America via Canada. He was arrested by police in California in February last year following a complaint of domestic violence by his wife.

Cannabis sativa plant/leafs for sale

Cannabis sativa : C. indica
Regional Syn : (S) Bhang (E) Hashish, Marijuana (H),
(B) & (G) Bhang, Charas, Ganja.(Kashmiri) Bhanga
Part Used : Plant, Leaf.
Constituents : Cannabinol, Cannabidiol, Canbigerol,
Canabidiolic acid, Resin.
Action/Uses : Intoxicating, stomachic, antispasmodic,
narcotic, analgesic, stimulant, aphrodisiac, sedative.
Used in; large doses causes mental exaltation, hallucination, loss of memory. 

Availability of  Seed/Planting material for research purpose only

(The following seeds  and planting material is available for distribution/purchase for R&D institutions, universities, associations and NGOs)

OPEN POLLINATED SEEDS/Non-hybrid

Our seeds are nearly all open-pollinated and so are able to be grown again from seed you save yourself. Open-pollinated seeds are genetically diverse treasures that have been passed on from generation to generation. When you buy and plant open-pollinated seeds you are helping to protect this valuable resource for the future.

No of seeds 25 seeds/per packet

(Dried leaves/plants are also available

For more details:

The Jammu and Kashmir Medicinal Plants Introduction Centre

“Ginkgo House”, Azizabad, Via Wuyan-Meej Road, Nambalbal, Pampore PPRJK 192121

Or

PO Box No: 667 gpo Srinagar SGR JK 190001

R&D Centre’s : Sonamarag, Ramban, Pampore.

Mob Ph: Head (09858986794

Office : 01933-223705

e-mail: jkmpic@gmail.com

home: http://jkmpic.blogspot.com

Asparagus racemosus seeds for sale

Asparagus racemosus
Regional Syn : (S) Shatavari (H) Satavari, Shahakul
(B) Satamuli (G) Satavari (T) Kilwari
(Per) Satavari (Kashmiri) Wan Gaazar.
Part Used : Root, Leaf.
Constituents : Asperagin, Mucilage, Saccharine matter.
Action/Uses : Refrigerant, demulcent, aphrodisiac, galactagogue,
tonic, antidiarrhoeal,antispasmodic.
Used in; Root; worms, applied on maggot wounds.

Availability of  Seed/Planting material for research purpose only

(The following seeds  and planting material is available for distribution/purchase for R& D institutions, universities, associations and NGOs)

OPEN POLLINATED SEEDS/Non-hybrid

Our seeds are nearly all open-pollinated and so are able to be grown again from seed you save yourself. Open-pollinated seeds are genetically diverse treasures that have been passed on from generation to generation. When you buy and plant open-pollinated seeds you are helping to protect this valuable resource for the future.

No of seeds 100 seeds/per packet

Asparagus racemosus root/seed/leaves for available at :

For more details:

The Jammu and Kashmir Medicinal Plants Introduction Centre

“Ginkgo House”, Azizabad, Via Wuyan-Meej Road, Nambalbal, Pampore PPR JK 192121

Or

PO Box No: 667 GPO Srinagar SGR JK 190001

R&D Centre’s : Sonamarag, Ramban, Pampore.

Mob Ph: Head (09858986794

Office : 01933-223705

e-mail: jkmpic@gmail.com

home: http://jkmpic.blogspot.com

Aconitum heterophyllum roots for sale

Buy Aconitum heterophyllum

Aconitum heterophyllum-Atees

Famil : Ranunculaceae

Other name : Patis

Commercial name : Atish

Qashmerian name : Patis

Dogri : Patees

Hindi : Atish/Atis

Balti  : Manglu

English name : Aconite, Monk’s hood, Wolfs bane.

Urdu ; Atees

High altitude perennial, leaves stem clasping, margin toothed. Flowers hreenish purple borne in a spike like cluster.

Distribution : Gilgat, Mirpur (AJK/Pakistan), Kishtwar, Gulmarag, Phalgham, Bani, Poonch, Bhadarwah, Margan top, Sarthal, Bani Chorwan, Machhal

Habitat : Alpine and sub-alpine meadows

Part used : Root/leaves

Chemical constituents : Heterastine, heterophyllisine, heterophylline, heterophyllidine, heterallisine, atisine, atidine, f-dihydroatisine, isoatisine, hetisine, hetidine and hetisinone.

Medicinal use of Aconitum heterophyllum :  The dried root is analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiperiodic, aphrodisiac, astringent, cholagogue, febrifuge and tonic. It is used in India in the treatment of dyspepsia, diarrhoea and coughs. It is also used in Tibetan medicine, where it is said to have a bitter taste and a cooling potency. It is used to treat poisoning from scorpion or snake bites, the fevers of contagious diseases and inflammation of the intestines. The root is best harvested in the autumn as soon as the plant dies down and is dried for later use. This is a very poisonous plant and should only be used with extreme caution and under the supervision of a qualified practitioner.

Availability of  Seed/Planting material for research purpose only

(The following seeds  and planting material is available for distribution/purchase for R& D institutions, universities, associations and NGOs)

Aconitum heterophyllum plants/seeds/roots are available

OPEN POLLINATED SEEDS/Non-hybrid

Our seeds are nearly all open-pollinated and so are able to be grown again from seed you save yourself. Open-pollinated seeds are genetically diverse treasures that have been passed on from generation to generation. When you buy and plant open-pollinated seeds you are helping to protect this valuable resource for the future.

No of seeds 25 seeds/per packet

For more details:

The Jammu and Kashmir Medicinal Plants Introduction Centre

“Ginkgo House”, Azizabad, Via Wuyan-Meej Road, Nambalbal, Pampore PPR JK 192121

Or

PO Box No: 667 gpo Srinagar SGR JK 190001

R&D Centre’s : Sonamarag, Ramban, Pampore.

Mob Ph: Head (09858986794

Office : 01933-223705

e-mail: jkmpic@gmail.com

home: http://jkmpic.blogspot.com

Jammu and Kashmir train/timetable

Crataegus oxyacantha berries for sale

Buy Howthorn berries

Howthorn
Bot. name : Crataegus oxyacantha
Family: Rosaceae (Rose Family)
Habitat : Pulwama, Sonamarag, Gulmarag, Pampore, Kishtwar, Dawar, Naranag (Kashmir Himalaya), Murree (Azad J&K), Gilgat (Pakistan), Afghanistan, IRAN, W. Siberia.
Status : Common
Ecological notes : Prefers open forest areas
Part used : Ripe fruits
Ethnomedicinal uses in Himalaya : Used as a harmless, mild heart tonic, used in making herbal tea, Leaves sometimes used to adulterate tea.
Medicinal use of Hawthorn : Hawthorn is an extremely valuable medicinal herb. It is used mainly for treating disorders of the heart and circulation system, especially angina. Western herbalists consider it a "food for the heart", it increases the blood flow to the heart muscles and restores normal heart beat. This effect is brought about by the presence of bioflavonoids in the fruit, these bioflavonoids are also strongly antioxidant, helping to prevent or reduce degeneration of the blood vessels. The fruit is antispasmodic, cardiac, diuretic, sedative, tonic and vasodilator. Both the fruits and flowers of hawthorns are well-known in herbal folk medicine as a heart tonic and modern research has borne out this use. The fruits and flowers have a hypotensive effect as well as acting as a direct and mild heart tonic. They are especially indicated in the treatment of weak heart combined with high blood pressure, they are also used to treat a heart muscle weakened by age, for inflammation of the heart muscle, arteriosclerosis and for nervous heart problems. Prolonged use is necessary for the treatment to be efficacious. It is normally used either as a tea or a tincture. Hawthorn is combined with ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) to enhance poor memory, working by improving the blood supply to the brain. The bark is astringent and has been used in the treatment of malaria and other fevers. The roots are said to stimulate the arteries of the heart.

Buy Howthorn berries/plants/seeds for cultivation/R&D purpose only at:

The Jammu and Kashmir Medicinal Plants Introduction Centre

"Ginkgo House", Azizabad, (Via Wuyan-Meej Road), Pampore PPR JK 192121
Or
POB: 667 GPO Srinagar SGR Jammu and Kashmir 190001
Ph: 09858986794/01933-223705
e-mail: jkmpic@gmail.com
home :http://jkmpic.blogspot.com

Human rights situation in Kashmir

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HR groups file petition for re-probe into unmarked graves

Srinagar, June 02 : In  Kashmir, two human rights Groups filed a petition in State Human Rights Commission seeking re-investigation in 2,683 FIRs related to unidentified dead bodies buried in different unmarked graves in Kupwara, Baramulla and Bandipora in North Kashmir.

In the petition filed by International Peoples Tribunal on Human Rights and Justice in Kashmir (IPTK) and Association of Parents of Disappeared Persons (APDP), it has been submitted that the HRC should re-investigate these 2,683 FIRs to ascertain how many bodies are buried in the graves as per these FIRS.

“Besides, we have asked that the HRC direct for identifying the places of burial of these unidentified people registered in these 2,683 FIRs registered in 28 different police stations. Ascertain what procedures have been followed for the burial of these unidentified persons and also investigate what identification profile has been maintained for these unidentified persons registered in these 2683 FIRs by the concerned police’, Convener, IPTK, Khurram Parvez, told media men.

He said: “In the report from the inquiry conducted by the Police Investigation Wing of SHRC, the Police have stated that there are only 464 unidentified graves in north Kashmir. However, the records recently acquired through the RTI procedure suggests that there are 2,683 FIRs filed in various Police Stations of Baramulla, Kupwara, and Bandipora.”

It merits mentioning here that, the HRC of  Kashmir, which is also hearing a petition related to unmarked mass graves in occupied Kashmir including Poonch and Rajouri on May 28, gave final opportunity to the authorities to file their reports within a month about the presence of such graves in Poonch and Rajouri areas of the  Kashmir, failing which the Commission shall order an independent and impartial enquiry into the issue by next date.

Unmarked graves in Kashmir

Viola-Odorata seed

Police say 2,683 FIRs about unmarked graves in Kashmir registered

Srinagar, June 02 In Kashmir, after the human rights commission, now police have disclosed to have registered 2,683 FIRs about unidentified bodies in unmarked graves in three districts.

The number of FIRs registered by police is 500 more than the figure given by the human rights commission.

The disclosure was made in response to an RTI (right to access information) application filed by the Association of Parents of Disappeared Persons (APDP) and International People’s Tribunal on Human Rights and Justice in the disputed territory.

“These are damning disclosures,” Khuram Parvez of IPTK said.

He said this shows how the authorities have been sitting on this information for many years, and trying to obfuscate the truth.” The police said that of the 2,683 FIRs, the largest number — 492 — were registered at Handwara police station. This was followed by Kupwara (396), Trehgam (326), Lalpora (298) and Vilgam (155). All these police stations are in Kupwara district.

In Baramulla district, 110 FIRs have been registered in Sopore police station, and 103 in Baramulla.

The number of unidentified bodies given by the police is 527 more than what was revealed in an independent investigation by the commission.

UN deplores India’s response to human rights abuses

Buy Ginkgo bioba plants

Geneva, June 02  The Human Rights Council of the United Nations has deplored that India has been dodging the implementation of the recommendations for repeal and review of the draconian law Armed Forces Special Powers Act.

A statement from the UN said that India’s human rights record was reviewed by the UN Human Rights Council under the mechanism of the Universal Periodic Review, early this week in Geneva.

The review was marked by a general lack of acceptance of human rights challenges in India and a mere reiteration of domestic laws, policies and constitutional provisions by the Indian Government. The statement said answers of the government did not address the critical issues related to gaps in implementation of laws and enjoyment of rights by the people.

Miloon Kothari, the Convenor of the Working Group on Human Rights in India maintained that by employing a defensive and largely self-righteous position at the Human Rights Council the Government of India had once again lost the opportunity to constructively engage with the UN human rights system and in accepting the enormous   human rights challenges it was faced with. Vrinda Grover, a human rights lawyer and member of the Group expressed serious concern at India’s misleading response to the Human Rights Council and said India was   camouflaging the systematic impunity enjoyed by its armed forces for human rights abuse in the Northeast of   the country and Jammu and Kashmir.

Phytolacca acinosa in India

Phytolacca acinosa seed/fruit/whole plant/root/leaf for sale
Family: Phytolaccaceae (Pokeweed Family)

Other Names : Phytolacca decandra, American cancer, American nightshade, American spinach, bear's grape, cancer-root, coakum, garget, inkberry, inkweed, pigeonberry, poke, pokeberry, pokeroot, pokeweed, red-ink plant, skoke berry, Virginia poke.

Medicinal use of Phytolacca acinosa: The root is antiasthmatic, antibacterial, antidote, antifungal, antitussive, diuretic, expectorant, laxative and vermifuge. The plant has an interesting chemistry and it is currently (1995) being investigated as a potential anti-AIDS drug. It contains potent anti-inflammatory agents, antiviral proteins and substances that affect cell division. These compounds are toxic to many disease-causing organisms, including the water snails that cause schistosomiasis. The root is used internally in the treatment of urinary disorders, nephritis, oedema and abdominal distension. Externally, it is used to treat boils, carbuncles and sores. The roots are harvested in the autumn and dried for later use. All parts of the plant are toxic, this remedy should be used with caution and preferably under the supervision of a qualified practitioner.

Habitat of the herb: alleys, hillsides, forest understories, forest margins and roadsides at elevations of 500 - 3400 metres. It is also found in cultivated land houses, moist fertile lands and as a weed.

Edible parts of Phytolacca acinosa : Leaves - they must be cooked, and are then used as a spinach. Only the young leaves should be used since the leaves become toxic with age. The young shoots are used as an asparagus substitute. They have an excellent flavour. Root - cooked. Must be leeched first. Only the white root of the white flowered form (if it exists!) should be eaten. See notes above.

Other uses of the herb : A red ink is obtained from the fruit.

Propagation of Phytolacca acinosa : Seed - sow autumn or spring in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. If you have sufficient seed, it might be worthwhile trying an outdoor sowing in a seed bed in early spring. Grow the plants on in the seedbed for their first year and plant them out the following spring. Division in March or October. Use a sharp spade or knife to divide the rootstock, making sure that each section has at least one growth bud. Very easy, larger divisions can be planted out direct into their permanent positions. We have found that it is better to pot up the smaller divisions and grow them on in light shade in a cold frame until they are well established before planting them out in late spring or early summer.

Cultivation of the herb herb: Valleys, hillsides, forest understories, forest margins and roadsides at elevations of 500 - 3400 metres. It is also found in cultivated land houses, moist fertile lands and as a weed.

Phytolacca acinosa seed/plant/leaves for sale (Open-pollinated.Untreated.NO GMO's

For more details:-
Sheikh GULZAAR
Head
The JK Medicinal Plants Introduction Centre
POB: 667 GPO Srinagar SGR JK 190001
R&D division : Sonamarag (Kashmir)
Ph: (Resi) 01933-223705
Mob: 09858986794
e-mail: jkmpic@gmail.com
home: http://jkmpic.blogspot.com

Salvia sclarea seeds/plants for sale

Clary has been perceived both as a weaker version of sage (Salvia officinalis) and also as a significant herb in its own right. An antispasmodic and aromatic plant, it is used mainly to treat digestive problems such as wind and indigestion. It is also regarded as a tonic, calming herb that helps relieve period pain and pre-menstrual problems. Owing to its oestrogen-stimulating action, it is most effective when levels of this hormone are low. The whole plant, and especially the leaves, is antispasmodic, appetizer, aromatic, astringent, balsamic, carminative, pectoral and tonic. It is useful in treating disorders of the stomach and kidneys and is a valuable remedy for complaints associated with the menopause, particularly hot flushing. It should not be prescribed for pregnant women. The leaves can be used fresh or dried, for drying they are harvested before the plant comes into flower. The seed forms a thick mucilage when it is soaked for a few minutes in water. This is efficacious in removing small particles of dust from the eyes. The essential oil is used in aromatherapy. Its keyword is "Euphoric".

Propagation of Clary : Seed - can be sown in situ during spring. Alternatively seed can be sown in August/September to overwinter, it will then produce larger plants Thinnings can be transplanted. The seed remains viable for 3 years.

Salvia sclarea seeds for sale (Open-pollinated.Untreated. NO GMO's.

For more details about Salvia sclarea cultivation
Head, JK Medicinal Plants Introduction Centre
POB: 667 GPO Srinagar SGR JK 190001
Ph: 09858986794
e-mail: jkmpic@gmail.com
For more details: http://jkmpic.blogspot.com

Saw palmetto seeds for sale

Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) is a low-growing palm like tree with sharp, saw loke leaf stalks and deep red berries that grows in warm climates.

Price Rs. 2500/-50 seeds per packet
Other packages : 100, 200 seeds/per packet

OPEN POLLINATED SEEDS/Non-hybrid

Our seeds are nearly all open-pollinated and so are able to be grown again from seed you save yourself. Open-pollinated seeds are genetically diverse treasures that have been passed on from generation to generation. When you buy and plant open-pollinated seeds you are helping to protect this valuable resource for the future.

 

Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) seeds are available at : 

The Jammu and Kashmir Medicinal Plants Introduction Centre
"Ginkgo House", Azizabad, Via Wuyan-Meej Road, Nambalbal, Pampore PPR JK 192121
Mob: 09858986794
Ph: 01933-223705
e-mail: jkmpic@gmail.com
home: http://jkmpic.blogspot.com

Third Front in Offing in the off-stream camp

SRINAGAR: In a significant development that could shake the political skeletons of Pro-freedom politics in the state of Jammu & Kashmir, Kashmir Media Watch through its reliable sources has learnt that most probably a Third Front’ of pro-freedom camp is quite high on agenda in the off-stream political heads and is likely going to be actualised soon reports Kashmir Media Watch.

Pertinently, these developments come at a time when one of the main factions of Hurriyat (Hurriyat M) is witnessing tremendous internal strife after the controversial statement of Professor Abdul Gani Bhat with reference to United Nations Resolution and its contemporary relevance and applicability to the Kashmir imbroglio.

Kashmir Media Watch has also received inputs that prominent pro-freedom leaders like Azam Inquilabi, Shabir Ahmad Shah, Engineer Hilal Ahmad War, Nayeem Ahmad Khan, Javid Ahmad Mir, Hakeem Rashid, Mohammad Yousuf Naqash et al are going to be the prominent faces of the said ‘Third Front’.

It is to be reminded here that for quiet sometime now, there have been quite hectic political to float a pro-freedom Third Front in Jammu and Kashmir which as per the analysts is a consequence of the inertias of the two Hurriyat Factions and their failures to yield any positive results. The Third Front is hence expected to act as a more dynamic platform than the other two factions of Hurriyat.
 

The political analysts also suggest that finally for the first time in the pro-freedom history of Kashmir the ‘Third Front‘seems to be taking a concrete shape.

Lemon Balm-Melissa officinalis for sale

Buy Lemon Balm

Lemon Balm
Bot. name: Melissa officinalis
Family: Labiatae or  Mint Family
Parts used : Whole plant/Leaves
Chemical composition : The main chemical components are trans-ocimene, cis-ocimene, 3-octanone, methyl hepenone, cis-3-hexenol, 3-octanol, 1-octen-3-ol, copaene, citronellal, linalool, b-bourbonene, caryophyllene, a-humulene, neral, germacrene-D, geranial, geranyl acetate, d-cadinene, y-cadinene, nerol and geraniol.

Common Uses : Beauty , Cardiovascular, Colds, Depression, Herpes, Hypertension, Insect Bites, Nausea, Pregnancy,Sore Throat, Sunburns

Properties : Anodyne, Antispasmodic, AntiViral, Aromatic, Cardic tonic Cordial, Carminative, Diaphoretic/sudorific, Digestive, Emmenagogue, Febrifuge, Hypotensive, Nervine, Sedative, Stomachic, Uterine Tonic,Vermifuge.

Medicinal use of Lemon Balm : Lemon balm is a commonly grown household remedy with a long tradition as a tonic remedy that raises the spirits and lifts the heart. Modern research has shown that it can help significantly in the treatment of cold sores. The leaves and young flowering shoots are antibacterial, antispasmodic, antiviral, carminative, diaphoretic, digestive, emmenagogue, febrifuge, sedative, and tonic. It also acts to inhibit thyroid activity. An infusion of the leaves is used in the treatment of fevers and colds, indigestion associated with nervous tension, excitability and digestive upsets in children, hyperthyroidism, depression, mild insomnia, headaches etc. Externally, it is used to treat herpes, sores, gout, insect bites and as an insect repellent. The plant can be used fresh or dried, for drying it is harvested just before or just after flowering. The essential oil contains citral and citronella, which act to calm the central nervous system and are strongly antispasmodic. The plant also contains polyphenols, in particular these combat the herpes simplex virus which produces cold sores. The essential oil is used in aromatherapy. Its keyword is "Female aspects". It is used to relax and rejuvenate, especially in cases of depression and nervous tension.

Description of the plant
Plant : Perennial
Height : 70 cm (2 feet)
Flovering : June to October
Scent : Scented
Edible parts of Lemon Balm : Leaves - raw or cooked. A pleasant lemon-like aroma and flavour, they are used mainly as a flavouring in salads and cooked foods. A lemon-flavoured tea can be made from the fresh or dried leaves. A bunch of the leaves can be added to china tea, much improving the flavour, the leaves are also added to fruit cups etc. They are used as a flavouring in various alcoholic beverages including Chartreuse and Benedictine.

Other uses of the herb : The growing plant is said to repel flies and ants. It is also rubbed on the skin as a repellent, though the essential oil would be more effective here. An essential oil is obtained from the plant (the exact part is not specified, it is probably the entire plant and especially the flowering stems). It is used medicinally. The whole plant is very pleasantly aromatic, the aroma lasting for a long time after the plant has been harvested. It is therefore a very useful ingredient in pot-pourri.

Propagation of Lemon Balm : Seed - sow spring or autumn in a cold frame. Germination can be slow. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots as soon as they are large enough to handle and plant out into their permanent positions when the plants are at least 15cm tall. If there is plenty of seed it can be sown in an outdoor seed bed in April. Plant out into their permanent positions the following spring. Division in spring or autumn. Very easy, larger clumps can be replanted direct into their permanent positions, though it is best to pot up smaller clumps and grow them on in a cold frame until they are rooting well. Plant them out in the spring. Cuttings in July/August.

Cultivation : Planting is usually 40,000 plants/Ha. with propagation from seed or cuttings. The plants have a life of 10 years but are usually replaced every five years with crop rotation to rejuvenate the soil. Propagation in the northern hemisphere is from April to July.

Harvesting period : In the first year the crop is in August, thereafter two crops are experienced. The first in June and the second in August.

Harvesting methods : Usually by hand on a clear warm day as the leaves will turn black if harvested wet. For good appearance leaves should not be left in the sun.

Pre-Treatment : Weed control is recommended (Pank). It has been reported that, in Egypt, irradiating seeds has an effect on growth, essential oil content and composition. The quantity of herb was reduced but the oil content was increased, with the irradiation dosage varying the proportion of the constituents.

Preservation and Storage : The oil should be stored in filled sealed containers, out of light and kept cool. The oil is subject to oxidation.

Lemon Balm -Melissa Officinalis seeds/leaves are available at :
The Jammu and Kashmir Medicinal Plants Introduction Centre
Meet to us at :"Ginkgo House", Azizabad, Nambalbal, (Via Wuyan-Meej Road), Pampore PPR JK 192121
Or
Jammu and Kashmir Medicinal Plants Introduction Centre
POB: 667 GPO Srinagar SGR JK 190001
Mob: 09858986794
Ph: 01933-223705
e-mail: jkmpic@gmail.com
home: http://jkmpic.blogspot.com

Anti-Cancer and Medicinal Plants

Taxus baccata Linn

Plants (Rare from Kashmir Himalaya)
Available : Size of plant : 10-15 inch
Min. order : 50 plants
Taxus  leaves
Available  : 500/1000/5000 grams
Podophyllum hexandrum
Available :Plants/Roots/Seeds

For more details : http://jkmpic.blogspot.com
The Jammu and Kashmir Medicinal Plants Introduction Centre
"Ginkgo House" Azizabad, Via Wuyan-Meej Road, Nambalbal, Pampore PPR JK 192121
Or
POB: 667 GPO Srinagar SGR JK 190001
Ph: 0193--223705
e-mail: jkmpic@gmail.com

Kashmir Is Killing India’s Military and Democracy

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By Pankaj Mishra
More details: http://www.bloomberg.com
In July 1995, an Islamic fundamentalist group called Al Faran kidnapped six foreign tourists, including two Americans, in Kashmir. For a few weeks, the world’s attention was fixed on the Himalayan valley as the allegedly Pakistan-backed militants negotiated with Indian security officials and foreign diplomats.

Eventually, one of the Americans escaped. Another hostage, a Norwegian, was beheaded. The other four were never found.

“The Meadow: Kashmir 1995 -- Where the Terror Began,” a staggeringly well-researched new book by two respected journalists, Adrian Levy and Cathy Scott-Clark, concludes that the hostages were killed by local mercenaries funded and controlled by Indian army and intelligence.

The authors argue that the drawn-out negotiation, during which Indian intelligence allegedly knew the hostages’ whereabouts, was a charade, part of India’s larger effort to portray Pakistan as a sponsor of Islamist terror, thereby delegitimizing the Kashmiri struggle for freedom.

Certainly, India today no longer needs to highlight the role of the Pakistani army and intelligence in sponsoring extremist groups. It has also succeeded in shifting international attention away from the appalling facts of its counter-insurgency operations in Kashmir -- tens of thousands killed, and innumerable many tortured, mutilated and orphaned. The tallying in 2009 of 2,700 unmarked graves containing the remains of people (often buried in groups) killed by security forces barely provoked any comment in the international media, let alone expressions of concern by Western leaders.

Killers in Khaki
But India’s diplomatic and public relations success has been achieved at considerable costs: the rise of militaristic nationalism, the assault on civil liberties, and a dangerously enhanced role in politics for men in uniform.

Most of the million-plus men and women in the Indian military still manifest what Shashi Tharoor once described as “increasingly rare” qualities in India: “high standards of performance, honesty, hard work, self-sacrifice, incorruptibility, respect for tradition, discipline, team spirit.” As a child, I had myself wanted, like many Indians of my generation and class, to acquire the virtuous glow of an army officer’s uniform, and even attended a military school.

It was therefore shocking and demoralizing to encounter, during a visit to Kashmir in 2000, accounts of extrajudicial killings and torture and rape by Indian soldiers -- stories that, though commonplace in Kashmir, were largely kept hidden from the Indian public by a patriotic media.

But to those who reported from Kashmir in the past decade and a half -- as opposed to the many more who were content to disseminate briefings from Indian army and intelligence officials -- “The Meadow” presents a disturbingly familiar picture.

I was there when, during Bill Clinton’s visit to South Asia in March 2000, Indian army officers allegedly kidnapped and killed five Kashmiri villagers and presented their mutilated corpses to the international news media as the Pakistani killers of the 35 Sikhs who had been murdered by unidentified gunmen just hours before Clinton’s scheduled arrival in India. It has taken 12 years for India’s legal system even to acknowledge this well-documented atrocity: Last week, the Supreme Court gingerly asked the army how it wishes to prosecute the officers suspected of the coldblooded murder.

Since 2000, the number of armed militants has steadily decreased in Kashmir. But the human rights situation has not improved. Under the Armed Forces Special Powers Act in effect in Kashmir and the northeastern states (where the Indian army was first deployed in counter-insurgency), soldiers can kill on the basis of mere suspicion while continuing to enjoy near-total legal immunity.

Regime of ImpunityThe result is a regime of impunity. A coalition of Indian human rights groups in a report to the United Nations this year documented 789 extrajudicial killings in the northeastern state of Manipur alone between 2007 and 2010.

In recent years, the army has also been dragged into Operation Green Hunt, the Indian state’s extraordinarily big, armed offensive against Maoist insurgents in central India. Predictably, the use of scorched-earth tactics once deployed in border areas has undermined the general rule of law in the states of Jharkhand, Chattisgarh and West Bengal.

The widened powers of the military against the new electronic media’s background chorus of hypernationalism have given army officers a public role they never had. Breaking with old protocols, the previous army chief openly speculated about a “limited” war under a “nuclear overhang” with Pakistan.

It is also not at all clear if there is any proper governmental oversight of the Indian intelligence agencies, which, mimicking the doomed Pakistani quest for “strategic depth,” have been trying out potentially useful proxies in Pakistan’s Balochistan province as well as Afghanistan. These adventurist spies and the perennially belligerent men in uniform now seem to constitute as formidable a lobby against peace between India and Pakistan as the Islamic zealots on the other side of the border.

Backed by Hindu nationalist leaders, they even dare to overrule elected politicians such as Omar Abdullah, Kashmir’s chief minister, who has been pleading in vain for a withdrawal of the much-despised special powers act.

Their jingoism, echoed by hawkish think tanks and websites (India’s own military-intellectual complex), goes necessarily together with dubious arms purchases. India is now the world’s biggest arms market; a series of scandals have not stopped spending sprees that, as the recent outbursts of the outgoing army chief reveal, do little to prepare India for any conceivable war.

No Banana Republic
Things are about to get worse. The next Indian army chief comes into office later this month, trailed by allegations of his involvement in an extrajudicial killing in Kashmir. He was also in charge of Indian peacekeeping soldiers accused in 2008 of sexual misconduct in the Congo.

Unlike its Pakistani rival, the Indian army remains firmly under civilian control. A sensationalist recent story in a major Indian newspaper claimed that unauthorized movements of soldiers near New Delhi earlier this year had “spooked” the government. But it is hard to imagine the foolhardy army officers who would attempt a coup in India. Although beset by internal wars and draconian laws and chaotic governance, India is very far from degenerating into, as an exasperated Ratan Tata feared last year, a “banana republic.”

Yet there are plenty of reasons for alarm and dismay over a process that, starting in obscure battles in the northeastern states in the 1960s, was accelerated during the two previous decades in the valley of Kashmir. Levy and Scott-Clark’s book mainly excavates one of the many murky incidents of the 1990s. But its revised draft of history also sheds light on the present -- how a democratic state’s addiction to colonial-style dirty wars has damaged not so much the Kashmiri cause of freedom as India’s frail democracy and one of its last uncompromised institutions.

(Pankaj Mishra, whose new book, “From the Ruins of Empire: The Revolt Against the West and the Remaking of Asia,” will be published in August, is a Bloomberg View columnist, based in London and Mashobra, India. The opinions expressed are his own.)

Today’s highlights: the View editors on bank-capital rules and force-placed insurance; William D. Cohan on e-mails from the fall of Lehman; Albert R. Hunt on congressional elections; Michael Ross on Vladimir Putin’s oil-money machinations.

About Pankaj Mishra
Pankaj Mishra is the author of "Temptations of the West: How to be Modern in India, Pakistan, Tibet and Beyond," "The Romantics: A Novel" and "An End to Suffering: The Buddha in the World."
To contact the writer of this article: Pankaj Mishra at pmashobra@gmail.com.

Crocus bulbs for sale

World's most expensive Saffron bulbs are vailable for trail purpose.
Beset quality.Open-pollinated.Untreated.No GMO's @ 55/per bulb.
Interested buyers can contact us at

Sheikh GULZAAR 
Head
The Jammu and Kashmir Medicinal Plants Introduction Centre
"Ginkgo House". Azizabad, Via Wuyan-Meej Road, Nambalbal, Pampore PPR JK 192121
Ph: 9858986794
e-mail: jkmpic@gmail.com
home: http://jkmpic.blogspot.com

Rudraksha seeds for sale

Elaeocarpus ganitrus -Rudraksha seeds for sale
Botanical Name: Elaeocarpus Ganitrus Roxb.
English name : Woodenbegar
Tamil : Akkamrudrakai
Sanskrit/Hindi/Marathi : Rudraksha
Bengali    : Rudrakaya
Kannada : Rudrakshi
Kingdom : Plantae
Division : Magnoliophyta
Class : Magnolipsida
Family : Eleocarpaceae
Genus : Elaeocarpus
Type : E. serratus Linn, Eganitrus, Roxb, etc.

Distribution : Kashmir, Gilgat, Afghanistan, South Eastern Asian Islands of Java, Sumatra, Borneo, Bali, Iran, Java, Timor (Indonesia) and parts of South Asian Kingdom of Nepal, Sri Lanka, Burma, Myanmar, Tibet, Thailand, Malaysia, India, and northern parts of Australia, New Zealand, New Calidonia, Fiji, Philippines, South China, Japan and Hawaii.

Details : According to Hindu tradition, rudraksha seeds serve as sacred beads that bring peace of mind as well as lower blood pressure and body heat. Each seed has a certain number of sections around a hollow center. The more sections a seed has, the more sacred it is. Mala beads often feature rudraksha seeds because of their sacred reputation and convenient central holes. When fresh, rudraksha seeds sit inside bright blue berries that give the rudraksha tree the name "blue marble tree." The rudraksha tree is a subtropical evergreen with rough grey bark and broad glossy leaves. Though it takes time for the rudraksha to bear fruit, you can grow one of these sacred trees in your home. Just have patience and pay the seeds plenty of attention.According to Hindu tradition, rudraksha seeds serve as sacred beads that bring peace of mind as well as lower blood pressure and body heat. Each seed has a certain number of sections around a hollow center. The more sections a seed has, the more sacred it is. Mala beads often feature rudraksha seeds because of their sacred reputation and convenient central holes. When fresh, rudraksha seeds sit inside bright blue berries that give the rudraksha tree the name "blue marble tree." The rudraksha tree is a subtropical evergreen with rough grey bark and broad glossy leaves. Though it takes time for the rudraksha to bear fruit, you can grow one of these sacred trees in your home. Just have patience and pay the seeds plenty of attention.

Rudraksha seed (Kashmir Himalaya from the original tree grown in our medicinal introduction centra)
FOR SALE. 100's Pack Rs.10,000 only.
For more details:

The Jammu and Kashmir Medicinal Plants Introduction Centre

"Ginkgo House" Azizabad, Pampore PPR Jammu and Kashmir 192121
Ph: 01933-223705
Mob: 09858986794
e.mail: jkmpic@gmail.com
home : http://jkmpic.blogspot.com
Head : Sheikh GULZAAR

NATO is a real threat to Russia: Iranian ambassador

TEHRAN - The Iranian ambassador to Moscow has said that efforts to make it appear that the Islamic Republic is a threat to Russia do not help reduce the real threat posed to the country by NATO.   

Ambassador Mohammad Reza Sajjadi made the remarks during a recent interview with RosBusinessConsulting, which is a Russian information agency, in response to the remarks by Army General Nikolai Makarov, the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Russia, about NATO’s plan to establish a shield against ballistic missiles in Europe. 

In an interview with the RT network on April 25, Makarov was asked if there is a growing nuclear threat from Iran and North Korea, and replied, “The threat is always there.” 

The Russian official added, “We conducted a joint assessment with our U.S. counterparts, which proved that this threat is a realistic one.”  

“The very fact that we agreed to produce a joint anti-missile system implies that we recognize that the threat is there,” Makarov stated. 

Ambassador Sajjadi, according to the Persian service of the Mehr News Agency, said, “I am so sorry that the real threat to Russia’s security by NATO is being compared with such a fake threat.”  

Makarov’s remarks were “a matter of surprise” to Iran, he stated, adding, “Portraying Iran, which is a friend of Russia, as an enemy does not help reduce NATO’s threat to it.” 

BILAWAL BHUTTO INVITED ON WAR’S WEDDING

SRINAGAR: Peoples Political Party (PPP) Chairman, Engineer Hilal Ahmad War has invited Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman, Bilawal Bhutto on his wedding that falls on May 13, 2012 at War’s ancestral residence, in historic Maisuma locality. War, who is also the Chief Patron of Bhutto Memorial Trust sent an invitation card, to Bilawal requesting him to grace the occasion.

“Bilawal is scion of a family that has played a pivotal role in shaping the destiny of Pakistan and making it a Nuclear Power. Late Z.A. Bhutto was my role model and political mentor and Bilawal’s presence at my wedding would give me a feeling that late Z.A. Bhutto’s blessings are with me”, said an emotional Hilal War. (KMW NEWS)

Saffron-Crocus sativus bulbs

Saffron bulbs for sale

Saffron Cultivation
Family: Iridaceae (Iris Family)

Distribution : Native of S. Europe and West Asia.Iran, Spain, Greece, Morocco, Azerbaijan, Spain, and Italy. Cultivated in disputed region of Kashmir and Kishtwar of Himalaya, Greece, Heerat (Afghanistan), The cultivation of saffron also in the Americas was begun by members of the Schwenkfelder Church in Pennsylvania. In recent decades cultivation has spread to New Zealand, Tasmania, and California. Despite numerous cultivation efforts in such countries as Pakistan, India, Austria, England, Germany, and Switzerland, only select locales continue the harvest in northern and central Europe. Among these is the small Swiss village of Mund, in the Valais canton, whose annual saffron output amounts to several kilograms. Microscale cultivation occurs in Tasmania,China, Egypt, France, Israel, Mexico, New Zealand, UAE, Turkey (especially Safranbolu), California, and Central Africa.

Botanical features : Corms of walnut size with fibrous scales remaining upto 30 cm deep in soil. Flowers stalkless with a long slender corolla tube and 6 equal perianth lobes of deep blue-violet colour. Stamens 2; style 3-lobed deep brick-red.

Medicinal use of Saffron:  Saffron is a famous medicinal herb with a long history of effective use, though it is little used at present because cheaper and more effective herbs are available. The flower styles and stigmas are the parts used, but since these are very small and fiddly to harvest they are very expensive and consequently often adulterated by lesser products. The styles and stigmas are anodyne, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, appetizer, carminative, diaphoretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, sedative and stimulant. They are used as a diaphoretic for children, to treat chronic haemorrhages in the uterus of adults, to induce menstruation, treat period pains and calm indigestion and colic. A dental analgesic is obtained from the stigmas. The styles are harvested in the autumn when the plant is in flower and are dried for later use, they do not store well and should be used within 12 months. This remedy should be used with caution, large doses can be narcotic and quantities of 10g or more can cause an abortion.

Other uses : Dye obtained from flower petals is used to flavour and colour food material. Corms/bulbs have been used as a scarcity food. Despite its high cost, saffron has been used as a fabric dye, particularly in China and India. In India It is the favoured colouring for the cloth of Indian swamis who have renounced the material world. It is in the long run an unstable colouring agent; the imparted vibrant orange-yellow hue quickly fades to a pale and creamy yellow. Even in minute amounts, the saffron stamens yield a luminous yellow-orange; increasing the applied saffron concentration will give fabric of increasingly rich shades of red. Clothing dyed with saffron was traditionally reserved for the noble classes, implying that saffron played a ritualised and status-keying role. It was originally responsible for the vermilion-, ochre-, and saffron-hued robes and mantles worn by Buddhist and Hindu monks. In medieval Ireland and Scotland, well-to-do monks wore a long linen undershirt known as a léine, which was traditionally dyed with saffron.In histology the hematoxylin-phloxine-saffron (HPS) stain is used as a tissue stain to make biological structures more visible under a microscope.

There have been many attempts to replace saffron with a cheaper dye. Saffron's usual substitutes in food—turmeric and safflower, among others—yield a garishly bright yellow that could hardly be confused with that of saffron. Saffron's main colourant is the flavonoid crocin; it has been discovered in the less tediously harvested—and hence less costly—gardenia fruit. Research in China is ongoing.In Europe saffron threads were a key component of an aromatic oil known as crocinum, which comprised such motley ingredients as alkanet, dragon's blood (for colour), and wine (again for colour). Crocinum was applied as a perfume to hair. Another preparation involved mixing saffron with wine to produce a viscous yellow spray; it was copiously applied in sudoriferously sunny Roman amphitheatres—as an air freshener.

Edible parts of Saffron :  The flower styles are commonly used as a flavouring and yellow colouring for various foods such as bread, soups, sauces, rice and puddings. They are an essential ingredient of many traditional dishes such as paella, bouillabaisse, risotto milanese and various other Italian dishes. The styles are extremely rich in riboflavin. Water soluble. Yields per plant are extremely low, about 4000 stigmas yield 25g of saffron. Saffron is the world's most expensive spice, it takes 150,000 flowers and 400 hours work to produce 1 kilo of dried saffron. About 25 kilos of styles can be harvested from a hectare of the plant. Fortunately, only very small quantities of the herb are required to impart their colour and flavour to dishes. Because of the cost, saffron is frequently adulterated with cheaper substitutes such as marigold flowers and safflower. The flower styles are used as a tea substitute. Root - cooked. The corms are toxic to young animals so this report of edibility should be treated with some caution.

Propagation of Saffron :  Seed - according to some reports this species is a sterile triploid and so does not produce fertile seed. However, if seed is obtained then it is best sown as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame. Stored seed can be sown in the spring in a cold frame. Germination can take 1 - 6 months at 18°C. Unless the seed has been sown too thickly, do not transplant the seedlings in their first year of growth, but give them regular liquid feeds to make sure they do not become deficient. Divide the small bulbs once the plants have died down, planting 2 - 3 bulbs per 8cm pot. Grow them on for another 2 years in a greenhouse or frame and plant them out into their permanent positions when dormant in late summer. It takes 3 years for plants to flower from seed. Division of the clumps in late summer after the plant has died down. The bulbs can be planted out direct into their permanent positions.

Buy saffron corms, plant them in pots or directly in the soil from June to September and they will bloom in the following October.

Crocus sativus corms/bulbs
The corms are available from June to September (Every Year)
Packaging : 100,200,500,1000 corms

Order them from now on

For more details:
The Jammu and Kashmir Medicinal Plants Introduction Centre
"Ginkgo House" Azizabad, (Via Wuyan-Meej Road), Pampore PPR JK 192121
(Via New Delhi-India)
Mob :+91-9858986794
Ph: +91-1933-223705
e-mail: jkmpic@gmail.com
home: http://jkmpic.blogspot.com