“Indian Medicinal Plants,” authored by Lieutenant-Colonel Kanhoba Ranchoddas Kirtikar and Baman Das Basu, is a seminal work first published in the early 20th century. This extensive compilation spans multiple volumes, with the initial two volumes dedicated to detailed textual descriptions and subsequent volumes comprising over 1,000 illustrative plates. The work meticulously documents the rich diversity of India’s medicinal flora, serving as an invaluable resource for botanists, researchers, and practitioners of traditional medicine.

The first volume provides comprehensive information on various plant species, organized systematically by plant families. Each entry includes the plant’s botanical name, morphological characteristics, habitat, and traditional medicinal uses. The authors drew upon extensive literature and collaborated with skilled artists to produce accurate illustrations, enhancing the reader’s ability to identify and understand each species. These visual aids are particularly beneficial for field researchers and practitioners who rely on precise plant identification for medicinal applications.

The second volume continues this detailed exploration, delving deeper into the pharmacological properties and therapeutic applications of each plant. It discusses traditional preparation methods, dosage forms, and the ailments each plant is reputed to treat within various systems of Indian medicine, including Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha. The authors also provide historical context, offering insights into how these natural remedies have been integrated into cultural practices over centuries. This historical perspective underscores the enduring significance of these plants in India’s medical heritage.

“Indian Medicinal Plants” stands as a testament to the extensive knowledge and rich traditions of Indian ethnobotany. By preserving and disseminating this information, Kirtikar and Basu have made a significant contribution to the fields of botany, pharmacology, and traditional medicine. The work not only serves as a scientific reference but also as a cultural document, capturing the symbiotic relationship between the Indian people and their natural environment. For modern researchers and practitioners, this compilation offers a foundational understanding of medicinal plants that continue to influence contemporary natural product research and integrative healthcare practices.