Introduction Bhringraj, scientifically accepted as Eclipta prostrata (L.) L., is a herbaceous species of the daisy family (Asteraceae) widely recognized in traditional medicine and pharmacognosy. Although commonly published as Eclipta alba in older botanical and Ayurvedic literature, current taxonomic authorities…
Introduction The garden strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) is the world’s most economically important strawberry and one of the most extensively cultivated berry crops. Belonging to the family Rosaceae, it originated through hybridization between the Chilean strawberry (Fragaria chiloensis) and the…
Introduction The cocoa plant (Theobroma cacao L.) is one of the world’s most economically important tropical tree species because its seeds form the basis of the global chocolate industry. A member of the Malvaceae family, it is native to tropical…
Introduction Chamaecostus cuspidatus, commonly known as the Insulin Plant, is a perennial herb in the Costaceae distinguished by its widespread medicinal reputation as a glucose-management plant. Native to eastern Brazil, it has achieved far greater horticultural prominence outside its natural…
Introduction Monstera adansonii Schott, commonly marketed as a Swiss cheese plant, is a hemiepiphytic climbing aroid in the Araceae native to tropical Central and South America (POWO 2026). Its most commercially distinctive trait is the perforated mature foliage, produced through…
Introduction Stevia rebaudiana is a perennial herb best known for producing intensely sweet diterpene glycosides, particularly stevioside and rebaudioside A, compounds valued globally as non-caloric natural sweeteners. Commonly known as Stevia, the species belongs to the family Asteraceae and originates…
Introduction Gomphrena globosa, commonly known as globe amaranth, is distinguished by its persistent, papery inflorescences that retain colour long after drying. It belongs to the family Amaranthaceae and is native to tropical regions of Central and South America. The species…
Introduction Dragon Fruit, botanically Selenicereus undatus, is the most commercially important white-fleshed pitaya and among the most widely cultivated climbing cacti in the world. It belongs to the cactus family Cactaceae and is accepted by Kew POWO as native from…
INTRODUCTION Arrowroot, Maranta arundinacea, is a tropical perennial herb best known for its starchy rhizomes, which yield a fine, easily digestible flour widely used in food and medicine. Belonging to the family Marantaceae, it is native to northern South America…
Introduction Passiflora edulis Sims, commonly known as passion fruit or purple passionfruit, is a perennial climbing vine in the family Passifloraceae native to southern Brazil, Paraguay, and northern Argentina. It is distinguished by its aromatic, nutrient-rich berries and intricate flowers…