India with 15 agro-climatic zones is one of the richest countries in the world in terms of biodiversity. Out of about 17000-18000 species of flowering plants, more than 7000 are estimated to have medicinal usage in folk and documented systems of medicine like Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha & Homoeopathy (AYUSH).

      Medicinal plants are not only a major resource base for the traditional medicine and herbal industry but also provide livelihood and health security to a large segment of Indian population. It is estimated that more than 242 species in India are having commercial value. The domestic and industrial demand of medicinal plants is increasing day-by-day.