Miracle Plant ‘Arogyapacha’

• Scientists from the University of Kerala have decoded the genetic make-up of Arogyapacha (Trichopus zeylanicus), a highly potent medicinal plantendemic to the Agasthya hills. This ‘miracle plant’ is known for its traditional use by the Kani tribal community to combat fatigue.

Significance of the Discovery

• Studies have proved its varied spectrum of pharmacological properties such as anti-oxidant, aphrodisiac, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, anti-tumour, anti-ulcer, anti-hyperlipidemic, hepatoprotective and anti-diabetic.
• The genome and annotation data will be a valuable resource to expedite research on Arogyapacha, particularly its secondary metabolism, genetic breeding, and comparative studies.
• The lack of a reference genome that hindered extensive research on ....