BENGALURU: Protecting the Devadari Hills and forests in Sandur taluk is imperative to ensure availability of Olibanum gum used in medicines for arthritis and joint pains.
Olibanum gum, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, is used in ointments for pain relief. It is extracted from Boswellia serrata plants found in the forests of Sandur taluk and in the Devadari Hills.
Noted environmentalist and retired forest official AN Yellappa Reddy told TNSE that the forests and the native medicinal plant species of the region are in danger because of a proposal for mining there.
“If need be, the forest department and the state government should move courts to protect the region that houses such endemic and native medicinal plant species,” he said.
Reddy was speaking on the sidelines of a function to mark 60 years of ‘My Forests’ in the city on Saturday. Forest, environment and ecology minister Eshwar B Khandre participated in the function.
A senior forest official said, “Not many know that Ballari is a rich forest habitat. It is home to many unique plant species. The area is rich in minerals which support forest produce. The climate is suitable for the soil to be fertile. It’s a rare and unique combination.”
Highlighting the importance of Boswellia serrata plant, Yellappa Reddy said there are 20 other medicinal plant species in the region. The gum extracted from the plant is not only used in pain relief ointments, but also as a flavouring agent.
The region should be protected. Using CAMPA funds, efforts should also be made to create such forests in other areas. It is unfortunate that the region is being deforested. The government should direct the mining companies to revive the forest patches once their mining lease expires, he said