Sanjeevani booti - A majestic and elusive all curing divine herb in epic Ramayana

Abstract

It is the well-known fact that most of the plants species exist in nature possess medicinal properties. Sanjeevani booti is one among such plants species, which is known for its majestic effects from ancient time. Sanjeevani (a group of herbs) is the most elusive in Indian mythology whose existence and identity are still controversial. According to Hindu mythology, Sanjeevani booti has potential of reviving a person and returning him to consciousness. In Valmiki Ramayana, it is mentioned in Yudhakandprakaran that when Lakshman got injured and fell unconscious, the Royal physician Susena asked Hanuman to step Dronagiri hills and bring four plants i.e. Mritasanjeevani, for reviving a life, Vishalyakarani, for removing arrows, Sandhanakarani, for restoring damaged skin and Suvarnyakarani for restoring skin colour. Just after smelling the revitalizing medicinal herb, Lakshmana gained consciousness. This is a majestic herb which has capability of resurrecting life. Recent research claims Saussurea gossypiphora and Pleurospermum candollei as Mritasanjeevani. Several plants those have been considered as affirmable candidates for the sanjeevani plants are including Selaginella bryopteris, Dendrobium plicatile, Cressa cretica and Rhodiola rosea. Since ages, people have been talking about the magical effects of these plants. Truly, Sanjeevani are the herbs of great importance to the society as a whole, and these should be studied thoroughly.