Natural Product Natural Product ChemistryChemistryB.Sc. [Biochem] B.Sc. [Biochem] Course code 212Course code 212

Section ISection I

Section ISection I

Natural Resources of Nepal:Natural Resources of Nepal:Eco-climatic division of Nepal; The biodiversity and Eco-climatic division of Nepal; The biodiversity and its Economic strengthits Economic strength

Species in trade: Plant genera in trade; Species in Species in trade: Plant genera in trade; Species in Export, import; & Re-trade As for example: Swertia, Export, import; & Re-trade As for example: Swertia, Nardostachys, Parmelia, Asparagus, Picrorhiza, Nardostachys, Parmelia, Asparagus, Picrorhiza, Taxus, Daphne, Sapindus, Euphorbia, Zanthoxylum. Taxus, Daphne, Sapindus, Euphorbia, Zanthoxylum. EtcEtc

Challenges in commercialization of plant resources: Challenges in commercialization of plant resources: Quality management [raw material to finished Quality management [raw material to finished products; Opportunity with plant resources]products; Opportunity with plant resources]

Lecture 2Lecture 2

Date: September 09,2005Date: September 09,2005 Topic: Eco-climatic division of Nepal:Topic: Eco-climatic division of Nepal:

Eco-climatic division of Eco-climatic division of NepalNepal

Ecology and climate Ecology and climate of a place is of a place is governed by the fact governed by the fact that where the place that where the place is located.is located.

Factors influencing Factors influencing ClimateClimate

Location: Location: Longitude Longitude LatitudeLatitude

Altitude from sea level Altitude from sea level Mountains aroundMountains around Ocean and sea around the placeOcean and sea around the place Hot and cold water current of air and Hot and cold water current of air and

waterwater

Location of NepalLocation of Nepal

Nepal is located in Asia Nepal is located in Asia between 80°03” E to 88°10” E between 80°03” E to 88°10” E and 26°30”N to 30°26”N. and 26°30”N to 30°26”N.

This geographical location This geographical location encompasses a portion of encompasses a portion of Himalayan range in the north Himalayan range in the north and gangetic plane in south.and gangetic plane in south.

The specific location spreads The specific location spreads its geographical territory on its geographical territory on either side of Himalayan either side of Himalayan range. range.

Districts west to Rasuwa like Districts west to Rasuwa like Manang, Mustang, Dolpa, Manang, Mustang, Dolpa, Mugu, Humla lie in the north Mugu, Humla lie in the north of Himalayas. of Himalayas.

Contribution of MountainContribution of Mountain

These mountains contribute a These mountains contribute a lot to climate of Nepal.lot to climate of Nepal.

Because of its specific Because of its specific location on earth, the country location on earth, the country has wide altitudinal variation.has wide altitudinal variation.

The mountains are too cool The mountains are too cool some part even below -30°c; some part even below -30°c; while the planes are much while the planes are much hotter some places above hotter some places above +30° c.+30° c.

Effects rain and river flow.Effects rain and river flow. Soil composition.Soil composition.

Climate of NepalClimate of Nepal

Rain in NepalRain in Nepal

The rain in Nepal is mainly The rain in Nepal is mainly due to monsoon, which due to monsoon, which originates in Bay of Bengal originates in Bay of Bengal and passes all the way as and passes all the way as lead by the Himalayan range. lead by the Himalayan range. It is cooled due low It is cooled due low temperature of mountains and temperature of mountains and precipitates as rain. These precipitates as rain. These rains are heavy in the eastern rains are heavy in the eastern Nepal and as monsoon Nepal and as monsoon moves west, it becomes moves west, it becomes water deficient and there is water deficient and there is low rain in the western Nepal.low rain in the western Nepal.

Physiographic processesPhysiographic processes These clouds are lead by These clouds are lead by

wind and mountains.wind and mountains. And are also blocked by the And are also blocked by the

mountain range.mountain range. The area trans to blockage The area trans to blockage

falls in rain shadow zone.falls in rain shadow zone. This is why districts west to This is why districts west to

Rasuwa like Manang, Rasuwa like Manang, Mustang, Dolpa, Mugu, Humla Mustang, Dolpa, Mugu, Humla which lie in the north of which lie in the north of Himalayas have low rain.Himalayas have low rain.

These physiographic These physiographic processes have created processes have created different climatic zones in different climatic zones in Nepal.Nepal.

Winter rain directionWinter rain direction

In winter the rain is due In winter the rain is due to returning monsoon.to returning monsoon.

It returns from Palmir- It returns from Palmir- knot in Afghanistan.knot in Afghanistan.

The clouds are more The clouds are more

dry as they move east.dry as they move east.

Hence in winter western Hence in winter western Nepal gets more rain.Nepal gets more rain.

Altitudes & ClimateAltitudes & Climate

Altitudes also play major Altitudes also play major role in climate.role in climate.

Lower altitudes are more Lower altitudes are more hot as they are more hot as they are more closer to equator.closer to equator.

And are affected by hot And are affected by hot land bridge.land bridge.

As the height increases As the height increases pressure decreases, pressure decreases, resulting cooling of air.resulting cooling of air.

Thus high altitudes are Thus high altitudes are cold.cold.

Lecture 3 Lecture 3 CLIMATE TYPES AND ITS SPECIFIC CLIMATE TYPES AND ITS SPECIFIC FEATURE: FEATURE:

1.1. Sub-tropical climate:Sub-tropical climate:

2.2. Warm temperature climate:Warm temperature climate:

3.3. Cool temperate climate:Cool temperate climate:

4.4. Alpine ‘Lekali’ climate:Alpine ‘Lekali’ climate:

5.5. Himalayan desert climateHimalayan desert climate

Sub-tropical climate:Sub-tropical climate:

This climate is seen in southern planes of the country earth at present, This climate is seen in southern planes of the country earth at present, which has an altitude between 60m to 1200m. They include Terai, which has an altitude between 60m to 1200m. They include Terai, Bhawar, Chure, and inner terai; it can also be observed in Besi, Tar, and Bhawar, Chure, and inner terai; it can also be observed in Besi, Tar, and khonch. Some part of the country with low altitudes is too hot, while khonch. Some part of the country with low altitudes is too hot, while others are humid semitropical climate. This climate is found up to 1200m. others are humid semitropical climate. This climate is found up to 1200m. Climatologically speaking this is sub-tropical but for Nepal, this is tropical. Climatologically speaking this is sub-tropical but for Nepal, this is tropical. Summer temperature in this zone ranges from 25°c to 40°c. The climate Summer temperature in this zone ranges from 25°c to 40°c. The climate has hot waves in summer.has hot waves in summer.

Western terai districts like Kanchanpur, Kailali, Bardiya, Banke, valleys of Western terai districts like Kanchanpur, Kailali, Bardiya, Banke, valleys of Dang and Surkhet, Kapilbastu, Rupandehi are among hot compared to Dang and Surkhet, Kapilbastu, Rupandehi are among hot compared to eastern districts like Saptari and Morang and Jhapa.eastern districts like Saptari and Morang and Jhapa.

Rain is due to monsoon, which originates in the Bay of Bengal and enters Rain is due to monsoon, which originates in the Bay of Bengal and enters from east form where it extends to west where upon it gradually from east form where it extends to west where upon it gradually desiccates and western terai has low rain in summer.desiccates and western terai has low rain in summer.

When the monsoon returns from Hinudkush in the winter, the winter rain When the monsoon returns from Hinudkush in the winter, the winter rain prevails. The winter rain is more in west than in the east. prevails. The winter rain is more in west than in the east.

Flora of Sub-tropical Flora of Sub-tropical climate:climate:

The terai has over 200mm rain.The terai has over 200mm rain. Accacia, Adina, Alastonia, Annona, Bombax, Bamboo, cassia, Accacia, Adina, Alastonia, Annona, Bombax, Bamboo, cassia,

ceaselpinea, Cinnamomum, Eagle, Ficus, Hollorhena, Mallotus, ceaselpinea, Cinnamomum, Eagle, Ficus, Hollorhena, Mallotus, melia, Nerium, Oroxylon, Phyllanthus, Sapindus, Shorea, melia, Nerium, Oroxylon, Phyllanthus, Sapindus, Shorea, Dalbergia, Strychnos, Tamarind, Terminalia are the major the Dalbergia, Strychnos, Tamarind, Terminalia are the major the major tree genera of this climate, while Mucuna, Dioscorea, major tree genera of this climate, while Mucuna, Dioscorea, Gloriosa, Gymnema are the major climbers in this climate.Gloriosa, Gymnema are the major climbers in this climate.

Adhatoda, Basil, Cassia, Lantana, Pogostemon, Pandanus Adhatoda, Basil, Cassia, Lantana, Pogostemon, Pandanus constitute the major shrubs and Acorus, Amorphophyllus, constitute the major shrubs and Acorus, Amorphophyllus, Andrographis, Asparagus, Bacopa, Boerhavia, Eclipta, Eulophia, Andrographis, Asparagus, Bacopa, Boerhavia, Eclipta, Eulophia, Phyllanthus Swertia, Vinca, Vetiver Withania are some of the Phyllanthus Swertia, Vinca, Vetiver Withania are some of the typical herbs found in this climatetypical herbs found in this climate. .

Warm temperature Warm temperature climate:climate:

This climate prevails in the Mahabharat range from This climate prevails in the Mahabharat range from 1200m to 2100 m .The summer temperature is ranges 1200m to 2100 m .The summer temperature is ranges between 24°c to 30°c while the winter temperature falls between 24°c to 30°c while the winter temperature falls up to 0°c depending on altitude. River basins are hot up to 0°c depending on altitude. River basins are hot and humid.and humid.

The valleys like Kathmandu fall in a climate where The valleys like Kathmandu fall in a climate where summer days reaches up to 33°c and cool winter night summer days reaches up to 33°c and cool winter night are as low as minus 3°c.are as low as minus 3°c.

In the southern face of the Mahabharat range, there is In the southern face of the Mahabharat range, there is heavy rain up to 125 cm, while on the northern side of heavy rain up to 125 cm, while on the northern side of the range the rain is relatively low only up to 100 cm.the range the rain is relatively low only up to 100 cm.

Flora of Flora of Warm temperature climate:Warm temperature climate:

Accacia, Adina, Bombax, Bamboo, cassia, Accacia, Adina, Bombax, Bamboo, cassia, Cinnamomum, Eagle, Ficus, Mallotus, Phyllanthus, Cinnamomum, Eagle, Ficus, Mallotus, Phyllanthus, Sapindus, Terminalia are the major the major tree Sapindus, Terminalia are the major the major tree genera of this climate, while Mucuna, Dioscorea, are genera of this climate, while Mucuna, Dioscorea, are the major climbers in this climate.the major climbers in this climate.

Basil, Cassia, Lantana, Pogostemon, constitute the Basil, Cassia, Lantana, Pogostemon, constitute the major shrubs and Acorus, Asparagus, Swertia, Vinca, major shrubs and Acorus, Asparagus, Swertia, Vinca, are some of the typical herbs found in this climate.are some of the typical herbs found in this climate.

This is the climate range where most of the This is the climate range where most of the mountainous caste livesmountainous caste lives..

Cool temperate climate:Cool temperate climate:

The Himalayan climate above 2100m to 3300m is quite The Himalayan climate above 2100m to 3300m is quite contrasting to tropical climate of the terai. Various districts that lie contrasting to tropical climate of the terai. Various districts that lie between south of Himalayas and Mahabharat range are in this between south of Himalayas and Mahabharat range are in this climate zone. They include Taplejung, Panchthar, Sankhuwasbha, climate zone. They include Taplejung, Panchthar, Sankhuwasbha, Ramechap, Dolkha, in the East and Rasuwa, Dhadhing, Gorkha, Ramechap, Dolkha, in the East and Rasuwa, Dhadhing, Gorkha, Lamjung, Parbat in the west represent such districts. With the Lamjung, Parbat in the west represent such districts. With the exception of river basin with low altitude and small valley in the exception of river basin with low altitude and small valley in the range the whole of the above districts are in cool temperate range the whole of the above districts are in cool temperate climate zone.climate zone.

The summer temperature in these districts ranges between 15°c The summer temperature in these districts ranges between 15°c to 20°c. They have near zero°c temperature in the winter. They to 20°c. They have near zero°c temperature in the winter. They have snowfall in the winter.have snowfall in the winter.

Rain is mainly due to monsoon but only up to 100 cm. The rain is Rain is mainly due to monsoon but only up to 100 cm. The rain is high in the south and in the east and comparatively lower in the high in the south and in the east and comparatively lower in the north and west. Districts in this climate zone have cool and windy north and west. Districts in this climate zone have cool and windy days and nights in the winter.days and nights in the winter.

Flora of Flora of Cool temperate climate:Cool temperate climate:

The tree species present are Pinus, The tree species present are Pinus, Rhododendron, Quercus, Rhododendron, Quercus, Daphnephyllum, Abies, and Tsuga Daphnephyllum, Abies, and Tsuga

Among the Medicinal plant, several Among the Medicinal plant, several important traded species of Nepal such important traded species of Nepal such as Rhubarb, Aconitum, Asparagus, as Rhubarb, Aconitum, Asparagus, Gaultheria, and Pseudo-panax are Gaultheria, and Pseudo-panax are collected from this climate zone.collected from this climate zone.

Alpine ‘Lekali’ climate:Alpine ‘Lekali’ climate:

1.1. The Himalayan range above 3300m to 5000m is in this climate The Himalayan range above 3300m to 5000m is in this climate zone. This climate is similar to climate of Alps in Europe and zone. This climate is similar to climate of Alps in Europe and there fore called alpine climate. The nine-month of the year is there fore called alpine climate. The nine-month of the year is snow laden. The snow melts in summer months. The summer snow laden. The snow melts in summer months. The summer temperature ranges between 10°c to 15°c. The Rain is below temperature ranges between 10°c to 15°c. The Rain is below 40 cm. 40 cm.

2.2. Tree species of the zone are Cedrus, Junipers, Cuperessus, Tree species of the zone are Cedrus, Junipers, Cuperessus, Larix, Hipophae, and Taxus. Some of the high value medicinal Larix, Hipophae, and Taxus. Some of the high value medicinal plants like Cordyceps, Aconitum, Picrorhiza; Nardostachys, plants like Cordyceps, Aconitum, Picrorhiza; Nardostachys, Ephedra, Onsoma, Rheum, Carum, are collected from this Ephedra, Onsoma, Rheum, Carum, are collected from this climate zoneclimate zone..

Himalayan desert Himalayan desert climate:climate:

The altitude above 5000m i.e. above The altitude above 5000m i.e. above snowline is laden with snow all the year snowline is laden with snow all the year round and are not suitable for any round and are not suitable for any vegetation not even lichen can grow vegetation not even lichen can grow here. Because the typically ice laden here. Because the typically ice laden characters round the year like polar characters round the year like polar region it is also called third pole.region it is also called third pole.

The evolution of earth:The evolution of earth:

The earth was formed from a The earth was formed from a solar cloud of Hydrogen solar cloud of Hydrogen under gravitation. Earth’s first under gravitation. Earth’s first rock was formed over 3500 rock was formed over 3500 million year ago.million year ago.

Different continent of the Different continent of the earth was a single landmass earth was a single landmass by that time. This single by that time. This single landmass; according to landmass; according to continental drift theory of continental drift theory of Alfred Wagener (1915) split Alfred Wagener (1915) split into Laurasia and gondwana into Laurasia and gondwana land. The Gondwana land land. The Gondwana land further split into India, further split into India, Antarctica and Australia.Antarctica and Australia.

Formation of Ocean, Mountains Formation of Ocean, Mountains

and rivers:and rivers: The sediments of shallow sea The sediments of shallow sea

“Tethys Sea” between Africa and “Tethys Sea” between Africa and Tibetan plateau raised due to drift Tibetan plateau raised due to drift of India and Africa northward. of India and Africa northward. The Himalayan range emerged The Himalayan range emerged due to this drift.due to this drift.

A radical idea of plate tectonics A radical idea of plate tectonics assumes that the earth is made assumes that the earth is made of series of rigid crusts called of series of rigid crusts called plates. These plates are moved plates. These plates are moved by convection current within the by convection current within the surface of earth. These plates surface of earth. These plates diverge and converge along diverge and converge along margins, which is marked by margins, which is marked by earthquakes and volcanoes. earthquakes and volcanoes. Molten lava within pushes plates Molten lava within pushes plates up, by which mountains and up, by which mountains and ranges are formed.ranges are formed.

The soil:The soil:

The formation of mountains The formation of mountains and ridges took years. and ridges took years.

The rain and other denudation The rain and other denudation processes went on. The soft-processes went on. The soft-top soils were carried and top soils were carried and deposited at riverbeds. deposited at riverbeds.

The terai of to day is made up The terai of to day is made up of such alluvial soils brought of such alluvial soils brought and deposited by river and deposited by river Ganges and its sisters. Ganges and its sisters.

Moreover, whole of terai Moreover, whole of terai except Dang, and Chitwan is except Dang, and Chitwan is made up of such alluvial soilsmade up of such alluvial soils

The soil:The soil:

Sub Himalayan basin /dunSub Himalayan basin /dun of of northern Dang, Northern rauthat, northern Dang, Northern rauthat, Northern Sarlahi is made of Alluvial Northern Sarlahi is made of Alluvial soils brought by respective rivers.soils brought by respective rivers.

Lesser Himalayan FluvialLesser Himalayan Fluvial soils of soils of Kathmandu valley and northwestern Kathmandu valley and northwestern Tanahun are conglomerates and Tanahun are conglomerates and lacustrine clay.lacustrine clay.

Lower part of sivaliksLower part of sivaliks in Kanchanpur, in Kanchanpur, Kailali, and peripheral Dang is made Kailali, and peripheral Dang is made up of marine shells and limestone up of marine shells and limestone and fluvial soils.and fluvial soils.

South of Salyan, Rolpa, Pyuthan, South of Salyan, Rolpa, Pyuthan, North of Palpa, Nawalaparashi are North of Palpa, Nawalaparashi are mainly shallow marine sediments mainly shallow marine sediments phyllites, sandstone, and quartzite.phyllites, sandstone, and quartzite.

The soil:The soil:

Soils of Myagdi, Kaski, and Soils of Myagdi, Kaski, and Lamjung are flyschoid Lamjung are flyschoid sequences of bedded schist, sequences of bedded schist, phyllites and Meta sandstone.phyllites and Meta sandstone.

Several mountain districts are Several mountain districts are rich in rich in high-grade metamorphic high-grade metamorphic rocksrocks; these districts include ; these districts include Dolkha, north Ramechap, Solu Dolkha, north Ramechap, Solu and other eastern districts.and other eastern districts.

Thus, what we see that the Thus, what we see that the soils of Nepal are made up of soils of Nepal are made up of various types of rocks, which in various types of rocks, which in course of time denudated course of time denudated contributed to the formation of contributed to the formation of different soil structures of the different soil structures of the country.country.

Impact of Impact of soilsoil on flourishing on flourishing of individual plant species.of individual plant species.

The difference lies not only in The difference lies not only in names of its component rocks names of its component rocks but also in its chemical but also in its chemical compositions and presence or compositions and presence or absence of micro-absence of micro-components like individual components like individual elements. They also elements. They also contribute to water holding contribute to water holding capacity of the soils. capacity of the soils.

The soil composition has The soil composition has immense impact on growth or immense impact on growth or flourishing of individual plant flourishing of individual plant species.species.

Impact of Impact of soilsoil on flourishing on flourishing of individual plant species.of individual plant species.

If a soil structure is If a soil structure is suitable for a species suitable for a species of plant, it may or of plant, it may or may not provide may not provide enough nutrients to enough nutrients to other plant species.other plant species.

Lecture 4Lecture 4BIODIVERSITYBIODIVERSITY

Biodiversity = Bio [= plants animals] + Biodiversity = Bio [= plants animals] + diversity [= variances, multiplicity, diversity [= variances, multiplicity, difference, dissimilarity]difference, dissimilarity]

Ecosystem levelEcosystem level Species level Species level Genetic level [Chemo-type level]Genetic level [Chemo-type level]

Ecosystem level:Ecosystem level:

In our earlier lectures, we talked on how the In our earlier lectures, we talked on how the physiography of Nepal has significant impact on physiography of Nepal has significant impact on its climates; and how the origin of the mountain its climates; and how the origin of the mountain ranges and river-system created different soil ranges and river-system created different soil condition within small area of the country.condition within small area of the country.

These differences in climate, water availability, These differences in climate, water availability, soil composition and the soil moisture, create soil composition and the soil moisture, create different ecosystem in the different part of the different ecosystem in the different part of the country.country.

Species level Diversity :Species level Diversity :

Living beings capable of breeding mutually are called species. Living beings capable of breeding mutually are called species. Species diversity means number and frequency of different species Species diversity means number and frequency of different species in an area. The earth is expected to in habit from 5,000000 to 3 in an area. The earth is expected to in habit from 5,000000 to 3 0,000000 species of living beings (Wilson, 1988).0,000000 species of living beings (Wilson, 1988).

Richness in diversityRichness in diversity means total number of different species in means total number of different species in particular area while particular area while

The term relative abundance indicates availability of one species The term relative abundance indicates availability of one species compared to the other.compared to the other.

The The dominant speciesdominant species means the species which out numbers other means the species which out numbers other species.species.

Example cited from Class / village.Example cited from Class / village. Community forest where tree species having timber values are kept Community forest where tree species having timber values are kept

and other bushy and thorny species are taken out cannot be and other bushy and thorny species are taken out cannot be considered rich in diversity. considered rich in diversity.

Thus, Thus, Richness in diversity implies proportionate growth of all Richness in diversity implies proportionate growth of all potential species in the area.potential species in the area.

EcosystemEcosystem

Stainton (1972) classified the country in to Stainton (1972) classified the country in to seven different ecosystem as follows:seven different ecosystem as follows: Terai and Bhawar. Terai and Bhawar. Siwalik, and Dun valley.Siwalik, and Dun valley. Mahabharat.Mahabharat. Mid landsMid lands Himalyas.Himalyas. Inner Himalayas Inner Himalayas

Arid zonesArid zones

EcosystemEcosystem

Terai and Bhawar. Southern part of the country Terai and Bhawar. Southern part of the country adjoining Indian Territory in the south and siwalik range adjoining Indian Territory in the south and siwalik range in the north is called Terai. Its altitude varies from 60 m in the north is called Terai. Its altitude varies from 60 m from sea level to 300 m. Forest zone called “charkose from sea level to 300 m. Forest zone called “charkose jhari” in the area was once very rich and diverse in jhari” in the area was once very rich and diverse in tropical plant diversity.tropical plant diversity.

Siwalik, and Dun valley. This lies between north of terai Siwalik, and Dun valley. This lies between north of terai and south of Mahabharat range.The altitude of this and south of Mahabharat range.The altitude of this ecosystem is between 300 m to 1500 m. The range is ecosystem is between 300 m to 1500 m. The range is wide in the western Nepal and less wider in the east. wide in the western Nepal and less wider in the east. Chitwan,Dang and trijuga are inner terai valley of Chitwan,Dang and trijuga are inner terai valley of Nepal. They are sloppy and fertile.Nepal. They are sloppy and fertile.

EcosystemEcosystem

Mahabharat. Mahabharat is the range spread east to Mahabharat. Mahabharat is the range spread east to west in north of Siwalik and south of mid land. The west in north of Siwalik and south of mid land. The altitudes ranges from 1500 m to 2700 m. River like altitudes ranges from 1500 m to 2700 m. River like Bagmati, Babai flow through it.Bagmati, Babai flow through it.

Mid lands: this ecosystem prevails in the north of Mid lands: this ecosystem prevails in the north of Siwalik and Mahabharat and south of Himalyas. Siwalik and Mahabharat and south of Himalyas. Altitude ranges from 600m to 3500 m. Kthmandu, Altitude ranges from 600m to 3500 m. Kthmandu, Pokhara, Banepa are located in this zone. This is Pokhara, Banepa are located in this zone. This is densely populated next to terai. The climate here is densely populated next to terai. The climate here is more appropriate and land is fertile.more appropriate and land is fertile.

EcosystemEcosystem

Himalyas. High mountains like Saipal, Lhotse, Himalyas. High mountains like Saipal, Lhotse, Machpuchre, Annapurna, Choyu, Manaslu, Makalu, , Machpuchre, Annapurna, Choyu, Manaslu, Makalu, , Sagarmatha, Kanchanjungha range are located here. Sagarmatha, Kanchanjungha range are located here. The altitudes above 5500 m are snow laden and are The altitudes above 5500 m are snow laden and are devoid of flora.devoid of flora.

Inner Himalayas: The trans Himalayan districts like Inner Himalayas: The trans Himalayan districts like Humla, Jumla, Manang, Mustng, can also be Humla, Jumla, Manang, Mustng, can also be considered inner Himalayas. Plants species like Taxus, considered inner Himalayas. Plants species like Taxus, Abies, Tsuga, and Rhododendron are found here. Abies, Tsuga, and Rhododendron are found here.

Arid zones: Some part of Dolpa, Manang, and Mustang Arid zones: Some part of Dolpa, Manang, and Mustang are part of Tibetan plateau and the climate here is arid.are part of Tibetan plateau and the climate here is arid.

Plant Diversity of NepalPlant Diversity of Nepal

Genetic level:Genetic level:

Gene is the smallest entity present in DNA that carries Gene is the smallest entity present in DNA that carries parental character to the progeny. Genetic diversity parental character to the progeny. Genetic diversity indicates differences in arrangement of genes in the indicates differences in arrangement of genes in the chromosomes. This leads to differentiation of brothers chromosomes. This leads to differentiation of brothers and sisters from among their sisters.and sisters from among their sisters.

Example: there are different types of rice in Nepal such Example: there are different types of rice in Nepal such as Kuriya, Basmati, Anandi, Thapchininya, Marsi, as Kuriya, Basmati, Anandi, Thapchininya, Marsi, Chomrong etc. Chomrong etc.

This not only creates morphological variances among This not only creates morphological variances among the progenies but also its content and composition. the progenies but also its content and composition.

To a chemist the genetic variation is significant To a chemist the genetic variation is significant because it differentiates the chemical composition from because it differentiates the chemical composition from among the plant of same speciesamong the plant of same species

ARTEMISIA SPECIES IN ARTEMISIA SPECIES IN NEPALNEPAL

Artemisia albida Willd.ex Ledeb.Artemisia albida Willd.ex Ledeb. Artemisia biennis Willd.Artemisia biennis Willd. Artemisia caurifoliaArtemisia caurifolia Artemisia capillaris Thunb.Artemisia capillaris Thunb. Artemisia dubia Wall.Artemisia dubia Wall. = vulgaris= vulgaris Artemisia gmelinii var. vestita (Wall.ex DC.)Artemisia gmelinii var. vestita (Wall.ex DC.) = Artemisia vestita (Wall.ex DC.)Artemisia = Artemisia vestita (Wall.ex DC.)Artemisia

gmelinii var. minor (Ledeb.)= gmelinii var. minor (Ledeb.)= Artemisia Artemisia sacrorum Ledeb.sacrorum Ledeb.

ARTEMISIA SPECIES IN ARTEMISIA SPECIES IN NEPALNEPAL

Artemisia indica =vulgarisArtemisia indica =vulgaris Artemisia indica var. canadensis BesserArtemisia indica var. canadensis Besser Artemisia indica var. orientalis (Pamp.) H.HaraArtemisia indica var. orientalis (Pamp.) H.Hara Artemisia indica Willd.Artemisia indica Willd. Artemisia japonica Thunb.Artemisia juncea Artemisia japonica Thunb.Artemisia juncea

Kar. & Kir.Artemisia maritima Linn.Artemisia Kar. & Kir.Artemisia maritima Linn.Artemisia moorcroftiana Wall.Artemisia moorcroftiana Wall.Artemisia myrianthArtemisia parviflora Buch.-Ham.ex myrianthArtemisia parviflora Buch.-Ham.ex Roxb.Artemisia roxburghiana Bess.Roxb.Artemisia roxburghiana Bess.Artemisia Artemisia siversiana Ehrh.ex Willd.siversiana Ehrh.ex Willd.Artemisia vulgaris Artemisia vulgaris Burm.f. = indicaBurm.f. = indica

Lecture 5Lecture 5

We have seen that in a small area of Nepal, we We have seen that in a small area of Nepal, we have quite good number of plant species as have quite good number of plant species as high as 62834 plants (so far known), stay alive.high as 62834 plants (so far known), stay alive.

These species are in continuous threat of These species are in continuous threat of extinction due to changes in ecology, Climate extinction due to changes in ecology, Climate and human intervention. and human intervention.

In the late twentieth century, it was realized In the late twentieth century, it was realized that if no attention is paid on these changes, that if no attention is paid on these changes, existence of future generation will be existence of future generation will be impossible.impossible.

Convention of Convention of BiodiversityBiodiversity

At the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, world At the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, world leaders agreed on a comprehensive strategy for leaders agreed on a comprehensive strategy for "sustainable development" -- meeting our needs while "sustainable development" -- meeting our needs while ensuring that we leave a healthy and viable world for ensuring that we leave a healthy and viable world for future generations. future generations.

One of the key agreements adopted at Rio was the One of the key agreements adopted at Rio was the Convention on Biological Diversity. This pact among Convention on Biological Diversity. This pact among the vast majority of the world's governments sets out the vast majority of the world's governments sets out commitments for maintaining the world's ecological commitments for maintaining the world's ecological underpinnings as we go about the business of underpinnings as we go about the business of economic development. economic development.

The Convention establishes three main goals:The Convention establishes three main goals:

three main goals Of CBDthree main goals Of CBD

Conservation of biological diversity,Conservation of biological diversity, Sustainable use of its components, Sustainable use of its components, Fair and equitable sharing of the benefits Fair and equitable sharing of the benefits

from the use of genetic resources.from the use of genetic resources.

Representatives of 155 countries agreed Representatives of 155 countries agreed this document to achieve the common this document to achieve the common goal of sustainable development. goal of sustainable development.

CBD articlesCBD articles

There are 21 articles in the document. There are 21 articles in the document. These articles are further sub articles. These articles are further sub articles. These article explain the process by These article explain the process by which the world can achieve the above which the world can achieve the above goals. goals.

Nature Conservation & Nature Conservation & IUCN NepalIUCN Nepal

International Union of Conservation Nature [IUCN] Nepal enlisted International Union of Conservation Nature [IUCN] Nepal enlisted all the plant and animal species, which are under threat or at the all the plant and animal species, which are under threat or at the verge of extinction in its “red list”. It has also published some verge of extinction in its “red list”. It has also published some books such as “Rare and endangered plants of Nepal” and books such as “Rare and endangered plants of Nepal” and "National Register of Medicinal plants " second edition."National Register of Medicinal plants " second edition.

These books enlist plants, which are under threat, and especially These books enlist plants, which are under threat, and especially the "National Register of Medicinal plants " second edition tried to the "National Register of Medicinal plants " second edition tried to enlist are which has been traditionally used in Nepal.enlist are which has been traditionally used in Nepal.

The book claims to serve the purpose of Article 15,16 and 19 of The book claims to serve the purpose of Article 15,16 and 19 of “Convention Of Biological Diversity [CBD]”. Hence, we have tried “Convention Of Biological Diversity [CBD]”. Hence, we have tried to aware our colleagues on CBD Article 15,16 and 19.to aware our colleagues on CBD Article 15,16 and 19.

Article 15 Article 15 [[Access to genetic resources]Access to genetic resources]

1. Recognizing the 1. Recognizing the sovereign rightssovereign rights of States over their natural resources, of States over their natural resources, the authority to determine access to genetic resources rests with the the authority to determine access to genetic resources rests with the national governments and is subject to national legislation.national governments and is subject to national legislation.

2. Each Contracting Party shall endeavor to create conditions to 2. Each Contracting Party shall endeavor to create conditions to facilitate facilitate access to genetic resourcesaccess to genetic resources for environmentally sound uses by other for environmentally sound uses by other Contracting Parties and not to impose restrictions that run counter to the Contracting Parties and not to impose restrictions that run counter to the objectives of this Convention.objectives of this Convention.

3. For the purpose of this Convention, the genetic resources being 3. For the purpose of this Convention, the genetic resources being provided by a Contracting Party, as referred to in this Article andprovided by a Contracting Party, as referred to in this Article and

Articles 16 and 19 are only those that are Articles 16 and 19 are only those that are provided byprovided by Contracting Parties Contracting Parties that are that are countries ofcountries of origin of such resources or by the Parties that have origin of such resources or by the Parties that have acquired the genetic resources in accordance with this Convention.acquired the genetic resources in accordance with this Convention.

4. Access, where granted, shall be on 4. Access, where granted, shall be on mutually agreed termsmutually agreed terms and subject and subject to the provisions of this Article.to the provisions of this Article.

Article 15Article 15

5. Access to genetic resources shall be subject to 5. Access to genetic resources shall be subject to prior informed prior informed consentconsent of the Contracting Party providing such resources, unless of the Contracting Party providing such resources, unless otherwise determined by that Party.otherwise determined by that Party.

6. Each Contracting Party shall endeavor to develop and 6. Each Contracting Party shall endeavor to develop and carry out carry out scientific research based on genetic resources scientific research based on genetic resources provided by other provided by other Contracting Parties with the full participation of, and where Contracting Parties with the full participation of, and where possible in, such Contracting Parties.possible in, such Contracting Parties.

7. Each Contracting Party shall take legislative, administrative or 7. Each Contracting Party shall take legislative, administrative or policy measures, as appropriate, and in accordance with Articles policy measures, as appropriate, and in accordance with Articles 16 and 19 and, where necessary, through the financial 16 and 19 and, where necessary, through the financial mechanism established by Articles 20 and 21 with the aim of mechanism established by Articles 20 and 21 with the aim of sharing in a fair and equitable waysharing in a fair and equitable way the results of research and the results of research and development and the benefits arising from the commercial and development and the benefits arising from the commercial and other utilization of genetic resources with the Contracting Party other utilization of genetic resources with the Contracting Party providing such resources; Such sharing shall be upon mutually providing such resources; Such sharing shall be upon mutually agreed terms.agreed terms.

Lecture 6 Lecture 6 Article 16: Access to and transfer of Article 16: Access to and transfer of technologytechnology

1. Each Contracting Party, recognizing that technology 1. Each Contracting Party, recognizing that technology includes biotechnology, and that both access to and includes biotechnology, and that both access to and transfer of technology among Contracting Parties are transfer of technology among Contracting Parties are essential elements for the attainment of the objectives essential elements for the attainment of the objectives of this Convention, undertakes subject to the provisions of this Convention, undertakes subject to the provisions of this Article to provide and/or facilitate access for and of this Article to provide and/or facilitate access for and transfer to other transfer to other Contracting Parties of technologies Contracting Parties of technologies that are relevant to the conservation and sustainable that are relevant to the conservation and sustainable useuse of biological diversity or make use of genetic of biological diversity or make use of genetic resources and do not cause significant damage to the resources and do not cause significant damage to the environment.environment.

Article 16: Article 16: Access to and transfer of Access to and transfer of technologytechnology

Access to and transfer of technology referred to in paragraph 1 above to Access to and transfer of technology referred to in paragraph 1 above to developing countries shall be provided and/or developing countries shall be provided and/or facilitated under fair and most facilitated under fair and most favorable terms,favorable terms, including on concessional and preferential terms where mutually including on concessional and preferential terms where mutually agreed, and, where necessary, in accordance with the financial mechanism agreed, and, where necessary, in accordance with the financial mechanism established by Articles 20 and 21. In the case of technology subject to patents and established by Articles 20 and 21. In the case of technology subject to patents and other intellectual property rights, such access and transfer shall be provided on other intellectual property rights, such access and transfer shall be provided on terms, which recognize and are consistent with the adequate and effective terms, which recognize and are consistent with the adequate and effective protection of intellectual property rights. The application of this paragraph shall be protection of intellectual property rights. The application of this paragraph shall be consistent with paragraphs 3, 4 and 5 below.consistent with paragraphs 3, 4 and 5 below.

3.Each Contracting Party shall take legislative, administrative or policy measures, 3.Each Contracting Party shall take legislative, administrative or policy measures, as appropriate, with the aim that Contracting Parties, in particular those that are as appropriate, with the aim that Contracting Parties, in particular those that are developing countries, which provide genetic resources are developing countries, which provide genetic resources are provided access to and provided access to and transfer of technology which makes use of those resources,transfer of technology which makes use of those resources, on mutually agreed on mutually agreed terms, including technology protected by patents and other intellectual property terms, including technology protected by patents and other intellectual property rights, where necessary, through the provisions of Articles 20 and 21 and in rights, where necessary, through the provisions of Articles 20 and 21 and in accordance with international law and consistent with paragraphs 4 and 5 below.accordance with international law and consistent with paragraphs 4 and 5 below.

Article 16: Article 16: Access to and transfer of Access to and transfer of technologytechnology

4. Each Contracting Party shall take legislative, administrative or 4. Each Contracting Party shall take legislative, administrative or policy measures, as appropriate, with the aim that the private policy measures, as appropriate, with the aim that the private sector facilitates access to, joint development and transfer of sector facilitates access to, joint development and transfer of technology referred to in paragraph 1 above for technology referred to in paragraph 1 above for the benefit of both the benefit of both governmental institutions and the private sector of developing governmental institutions and the private sector of developing countriescountries and in this regard shall abide by the obligations included and in this regard shall abide by the obligations included in paragraphs 1, 2 and 3 above.in paragraphs 1, 2 and 3 above.

5. The Contracting Parties, recognizing that 5. The Contracting Parties, recognizing that patents and other patents and other intellectual property rightsintellectual property rights may have an influence on the may have an influence on the implementation of this Convention, shall cooperate in this regard implementation of this Convention, shall cooperate in this regard subject to national legislation and international law in order to subject to national legislation and international law in order to ensure that such rights are supportive of and do not run counter to ensure that such rights are supportive of and do not run counter to its objectives.its objectives.

Article 19: Article 19: Handling of biotechnology and distribution of its Handling of biotechnology and distribution of its benefitsbenefits

1. Each Contracting Party shall take legislative, administrative or 1. Each Contracting Party shall take legislative, administrative or policy measures, as appropriate, policy measures, as appropriate, to provide for the effective to provide for the effective participation in biotechnological research activitiesparticipation in biotechnological research activities by those by those Contracting Parties, especially developing countries, which Contracting Parties, especially developing countries, which provide the genetic resources for such research, and where provide the genetic resources for such research, and where feasible in such Contracting Parties.feasible in such Contracting Parties.

2. Each Contracting Party shall take all practicable measures to 2. Each Contracting Party shall take all practicable measures to promote and advance priority promote and advance priority access on a fair and equitable basisaccess on a fair and equitable basis by Contracting Parties, especially developing countries, to the by Contracting Parties, especially developing countries, to the results and benefits arising from biotechnology based upon results and benefits arising from biotechnology based upon genetic resources provided by those Contracting Parties. Such genetic resources provided by those Contracting Parties. Such access shall be on mutually agreed terms.access shall be on mutually agreed terms.

Article 19: Article 19: Handling of biotechnology and distribution of its Handling of biotechnology and distribution of its benefitsbenefits

3. The Parties shall consider the need for and modalities of 3. The Parties shall consider the need for and modalities of a a protocol setting out appropriate procedures, protocol setting out appropriate procedures, including, in including, in particular, advance informed agreement, in the field of the safe particular, advance informed agreement, in the field of the safe transfer, handling and use of any living modified organism transfer, handling and use of any living modified organism resulting from biotechnology that may have adverse effect on the resulting from biotechnology that may have adverse effect on the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity.conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity.

4. Each Contracting Party shall, directly or by requiring any natural 4. Each Contracting Party shall, directly or by requiring any natural or legal person under its jurisdiction providing the organisms or legal person under its jurisdiction providing the organisms referred to in paragraph 3 above, provide any available referred to in paragraph 3 above, provide any available information about the use and safety regulations required by that information about the use and safety regulations required by that Contracting Party in handling such organisms, as well as any Contracting Party in handling such organisms, as well as any available information on the potential adverse impact of the available information on the potential adverse impact of the specific organisms concerned to the Contracting Party into which specific organisms concerned to the Contracting Party into which those organisms are to be introduced.those organisms are to be introduced.

NTFP policy 2061, has recently been released by HMG NTFP policy 2061, has recently been released by HMG Department of Plants Resources [Kantipur Bhadra 2061] Department of Plants Resources [Kantipur Bhadra 2061]

CITES AND NTFPs OF CITES AND NTFPs OF NEPALNEPAL

The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, or CITES, came into effect in 1975. The Wild Fauna and Flora, or CITES, came into effect in 1975. The United Nations Environment Program administers the Convention United Nations Environment Program administers the Convention and 150 countries are a Party to the Convention. and 150 countries are a Party to the Convention.

The Convention was established with the aim of controlling and The Convention was established with the aim of controlling and monitoring the international trade in plants and animals monitoring the international trade in plants and animals considered being threatened, or likely to become threatened, and considered being threatened, or likely to become threatened, and affected by such trade. Generally, the Convention does not affected by such trade. Generally, the Convention does not prohibit the international trade in listed species, but seeks to prohibit the international trade in listed species, but seeks to prevent the unsustainable exploitation of wild populations of plants prevent the unsustainable exploitation of wild populations of plants and animals. and animals.

The Convention consists of a text setting out the main "rules" and The Convention consists of a text setting out the main "rules" and three Appendices, or lists, of plants and animals. Trade in species three Appendices, or lists, of plants and animals. Trade in species included in these Appendices is controlled and monitored by included in these Appendices is controlled and monitored by means of a permit system. In CITES terms, "trade" means means of a permit system. In CITES terms, "trade" means movement across international borders. movement across international borders.

CITES AppendixCITES Appendix

Appendix: 1Appendix: 1 All parts and derivatives subject to control, including live plants, hybrids, seeds, and herbarium All parts and derivatives subject to control, including live plants, hybrids, seeds, and herbarium

and spirit material.and spirit material. 1.Saussurea costus1.Saussurea costus 2.Vanda coerulea 2.Vanda coerulea Appendix 2Appendix 2 All parts and derivatives subject to control, including live plants, hybrids, herbarium and spirit All parts and derivatives subject to control, including live plants, hybrids, herbarium and spirit

material, but not seeds (except seeds of Mexican Cactaceae originating from Mexico), spores material, but not seeds (except seeds of Mexican Cactaceae originating from Mexico), spores and pollen (including pollinia), in vitro cultures unless otherwise annotated.and pollen (including pollinia), in vitro cultures unless otherwise annotated.

1. Aloe spp.1. Aloe spp. 2. Cyathea spp. 2. Cyathea spp. 3. Cycadaceae spp.3. Cycadaceae spp. 4. Dioscorea deltiodea 4. Dioscorea deltiodea 5. Euphorbia spp. 5. Euphorbia spp. 6. Hedychium philippinense 6. Hedychium philippinense 7. Nardostachys grandiflora 7. Nardostachys grandiflora 8. Orchidaceae spp.8. Orchidaceae spp.

CITESCITES

9. Panax ginseng [Panax pseudoginseng]*9. Panax ginseng [Panax pseudoginseng]* 10. Picrorhiza kurroa* 10. Picrorhiza kurroa* 11. Podophyllum hexandrum* 11. Podophyllum hexandrum* 12. Pterocarpus santalinus 12. Pterocarpus santalinus 13. Rauvolfia serpentina 13. Rauvolfia serpentina 14. Taxus wallichiana 14. Taxus wallichiana Appendix 3 Appendix 3 Controls = As appendix 2Controls = As appendix 2 1. Gnetum montanum 1. Gnetum montanum 2. Magnolia liliifera var. obovata 2. Magnolia liliifera var. obovata 3. Meconopsis regia 3. Meconopsis regia 4. Podocarpus neriifolius 4. Podocarpus neriifolius 5. Tetracentron sinense 5. Tetracentron sinense

Lecture 7Lecture 7

Economic Strength of Bio-diversity Economic Strength of Bio-diversity Again we will limit our self to plant diversity because the animal are not Again we will limit our self to plant diversity because the animal are not

the primary sources of secondary metabolite and also because by the primary sources of secondary metabolite and also because by definition secondary metabolites are products of plant origin. definition secondary metabolites are products of plant origin.

Past tradePast trade Present tradePresent trade Future trade Future trade Past trade:Past trade: In the past, several species of plants were lost due to human In the past, several species of plants were lost due to human

intervention and popular use of plants.intervention and popular use of plants. To enlist few of them here: To enlist few of them here: Santalum albumSantalum album Pterocarpus santalianus Pterocarpus santalianus Aqularia agalochaAqularia agalocha Strychnos nuxvomicaStrychnos nuxvomica Many others have become sparseMany others have become sparse

Past tradePast trade

Melia indica, Ficus hamiltony, and Melia indica, Ficus hamiltony, and perhaps several species of Ficus like perhaps several species of Ficus like religiosa, benghalensis, and Eagle religiosa, benghalensis, and Eagle marmelos, Madhuca butyracea, Alstonia marmelos, Madhuca butyracea, Alstonia scholaris, which are, now listed, as scholaris, which are, now listed, as religious plants can be included in this religious plants can be included in this list.list.

Several of these species are sources of Several of these species are sources of novel secondary metabolites.novel secondary metabolites.

Present day trade:Present day trade:

Present day trade:Present day trade:

Present day trade:Present day trade:

Present day trade:Present day trade:

Present day trade:Present day trade:

Lecture 9 Lecture 9 Price InformationPrice Information

Price InformationPrice Information

Sources of price information:Sources of price information: Primary source are the Primary source are the

traders dealing the item; traders dealing the item; Secondary sources are price Secondary sources are price

bulletin like daily and weekly bulletin like daily and weekly magazines ex Economic magazines ex Economic Times [Multi Commodity Times [Multi Commodity exchange ] exchange ]

Alternatively, specialty Alternatively, specialty reporters like Public ledger reporters like Public ledger are the sources of information are the sources of information for prices.for prices.

TOP 10 Herbs Traded from TOP 10 Herbs Traded from NepalNepal

Export of NTFPs and their Export of NTFPs and their derivativesderivatives

Lecture 10Lecture 10

Challenges in commercialization of Challenges in commercialization of plant resources:plant resources:

Let me explain you the case with an Let me explain you the case with an instance by a clip from to-days Kantipur: instance by a clip from to-days Kantipur: [October 31st, 2004][October 31st, 2004]

Remedy of gastricRemedy of gastric & Indra Bahdur shrestha & Indra Bahdur shrestha

Translation by Author:Translation by Author: Kantipur reporter: -Sarlalhi, 14 Kartik – A couple dies by Kantipur reporter: -Sarlalhi, 14 Kartik – A couple dies by

eating an herbal drug being sold by himself as a remedy eating an herbal drug being sold by himself as a remedy of gastric.Indra Bahdur shrestha and his wife man maya of gastric.Indra Bahdur shrestha and his wife man maya shrestha of karmaiya VDC ward no 1 died by eating an shrestha of karmaiya VDC ward no 1 died by eating an herbal drug called Nirmashi.According to family sources herbal drug called Nirmashi.According to family sources the couple ate 3 pieces of the drug before bed.When the the couple ate 3 pieces of the drug before bed.When the trouble increased they were brought to Ekta Nursing trouble increased they were brought to Ekta Nursing Home.Man Maya was declared dead on arrival to the Home.Man Maya was declared dead on arrival to the hospital.Indra Bhadur was refered to Birgunj Hospital the hospital.Indra Bhadur was refered to Birgunj Hospital the he doed.According to Govind bahadur mainali a local he doed.According to Govind bahadur mainali a local health worker the drug taken was Bish [poison].Indra health worker the drug taken was Bish [poison].Indra bahadur used to sale the same drug as bahadur used to sale the same drug as nirmashi.According to Deepak Rana Bhat the took the nirmashi.According to Deepak Rana Bhat the took the drug clear the bowel toxicity. drug clear the bowel toxicity.

Remedy of gastricRemedy of gastriccont….cont….

The above instance The above instance explains how our explains how our knowledge on identity & knowledge on identity & the activity of Herbal the activity of Herbal crude drug of regarding crude drug of regarding is fatal to us:is fatal to us:

Similar knowledge has Similar knowledge has caused near death of caused near death of Herbal trade.Herbal trade.

Knowledge, the first Knowledge, the first barrierbarrier

First barrier to commercialization First barrier to commercialization therefore is true identity of the material. therefore is true identity of the material.

Majority herbs are traded in crude form. Majority herbs are traded in crude form. And the exact identity; And the exact identity;

and the quality requirements for the and the quality requirements for the products are not definedproducts are not defined

WHO and Crude drugs tradeWHO and Crude drugs trade

The plant material, crude drugs are used through out the developed and developing countries The plant material, crude drugs are used through out the developed and developing countries as home remedies, over the counter drug products and raw material for the pharmaceutical as home remedies, over the counter drug products and raw material for the pharmaceutical industries and represent a substantial proportion of the global market. It is therefore essential industries and represent a substantial proportion of the global market. It is therefore essential to establish internationally recognized monographs and analytical guidelines. to establish internationally recognized monographs and analytical guidelines.

The World health Assembly –in its resolution WHA 31.33[1978], WHA 40.33[1987] and WHA The World health Assembly –in its resolution WHA 31.33[1978], WHA 40.33[1987] and WHA 42.43[1989 has emphasized the need to ensure the quality of medicinal plant products by 42.43[1989 has emphasized the need to ensure the quality of medicinal plant products by using modern quality control techniques and applying suitable standards.using modern quality control techniques and applying suitable standards.

International pharmacopoeia provides information on selected medicinal plants that are International pharmacopoeia provides information on selected medicinal plants that are included in model list, besides many countries has their herbal pharmacopoeia.included in model list, besides many countries has their herbal pharmacopoeia.

The WHO monographs are available for a number of globally accepted plant materials though The WHO monographs are available for a number of globally accepted plant materials though while monographs are not available for regionally traded medicinal plant materials.while monographs are not available for regionally traded medicinal plant materials.

These pharmacopoeias and monograph have testing procedures for the test of medicinal plant These pharmacopoeias and monograph have testing procedures for the test of medicinal plant materials. materials.

The testing and set standards are optional in Nepal but are mandatory for once the country The testing and set standards are optional in Nepal but are mandatory for once the country becomes parties of WTO after 2006. becomes parties of WTO after 2006.

There are ample example of technical barrier that barred Chinese Honey and crude drugs not There are ample example of technical barrier that barred Chinese Honey and crude drugs not complying the standards for entry in European market.complying the standards for entry in European market.

The following list of test is enlisted in “quality control methods for Medicinal plants”.The following list of test is enlisted in “quality control methods for Medicinal plants”.

Quality control methods for Quality control methods for Medicinal plants as per WHO Medicinal plants as per WHO

Standards for Spices and Standards for Spices and Condiments:Condiments:

International Standard OrganizationInternational Standard Organization [ISO] has 191 technical committees out of [ISO] has 191 technical committees out of which ISO /TC 34 is one. ISO /TC 34 has 15 sub committee one of which is ISO which ISO /TC 34 is one. ISO /TC 34 has 15 sub committee one of which is ISO /TC 34 /SC 7. The ISO /TC 34 /SC 7deals with spices and condiments and its /TC 34 /SC 7. The ISO /TC 34 /SC 7deals with spices and condiments and its secretariat is in Bureau of Indian Standards. The ISO /TC 34 /SC 7 has finalized secretariat is in Bureau of Indian Standards. The ISO /TC 34 /SC 7 has finalized over 59 international standards for spices. These standards have included testing over 59 international standards for spices. These standards have included testing procedures also.procedures also.

American Spice Traders Association [ASTA] has cleanliness specification of 29 American Spice Traders Association [ASTA] has cleanliness specification of 29 spices.spices.

ASTA specificationASTA specification effective from 1 January 1990 has minimum permissible limit effective from 1 January 1990 has minimum permissible limit of Whole insect, excreta of mammalian by mg /lb; excreta other by mg/lb; mould % of Whole insect, excreta of mammalian by mg /lb; excreta other by mg/lb; mould % weight; insect defiled % weight and extraneous foreign matter % weight.weight; insect defiled % weight and extraneous foreign matter % weight.

Nepal Standards of common spicesNepal Standards of common spices : Part 50,Number 42 of Nepal Gazette : Part 50,Number 42 of Nepal Gazette section 3 date 2057/10/23 describes standards for Nepal Cardamom [Amomum section 3 date 2057/10/23 describes standards for Nepal Cardamom [Amomum subulatum], fruit, seed, powder; Dried Ginger, Dried ginger powder; Turmeric, subulatum], fruit, seed, powder; Dried Ginger, Dried ginger powder; Turmeric, Turmeric powder; Cumin, cumin powder; Whole pepper, pepper powder; Chilies, Turmeric powder; Cumin, cumin powder; Whole pepper, pepper powder; Chilies, Chilies powder; Coriander and coriander powder.Chilies powder; Coriander and coriander powder.

Standards for Spices and Standards for Spices and CondimentsCondiments

Nepal Standards of common spicesNepal Standards of common spices has defined has defined specification based on moisture %, Volatile oil %, Cold-specification based on moisture %, Volatile oil %, Cold-water soluble extract, alcohol soluble extract Total ash water soluble extract, alcohol soluble extract Total ash Dil HCl insoluble ash and fiber content in some cases. Dil HCl insoluble ash and fiber content in some cases. It does refer CaO in dry ginger, lead chromate and It does refer CaO in dry ginger, lead chromate and curcumin in case of turmeric and fiber content in case curcumin in case of turmeric and fiber content in case of pepper.of pepper.

Part 50; Number 42 of Nepal Gazette section 3; date Part 50; Number 42 of Nepal Gazette section 3; date 2057/10/23 is silent in many other requirements 2057/10/23 is silent in many other requirements required globally. It also does not talk on testing required globally. It also does not talk on testing procedure. Similarly it is also silent on Zanthoxylum .procedure. Similarly it is also silent on Zanthoxylum .

Thus, we can infer that quality management and Thus, we can infer that quality management and certification is one of the major certification is one of the major