A REVIEW ON AN ENDANGERED HIMALAYAN MEDICINAL AROMATIC PLANT - CHORAKA (ANGELICA GLAUCA EDGEW)

Abstract

Choraka is a highly valued aromatic plant endemic to the Himalayan region. Angelica glauca is a perennial herb of Umbelliferae family. It is very commonly used as a spice and for treating stomach ailments. Its es-sential oil is highly valued and has broncho-relaxant, antimicrobial, antifungal, anxiolytic and antioxidant activity. Its chemical constituents are mainly (Z)-ligustilide, (Z)-butylidenephthalide, and (E)-butyl ideneph-thalide. It has been in use since the period of Arthashastra and references can also be seen in Brihatrayi and various Nighantus for Mukha and Nasa roga chikitsa. Ruthless uprooting of the plant from its natural habitat for its sale in the market has led to a considerable decline in its availability. This article deals with its distribution, its uses in Ayurveda with classical references, researches on its extracts, controversies and the threats faced by the plant.