Trichopus zylanicus

Trichopus zylanicus C.K. Paul

Trichopus zylanicus is a fascinating and rare plant with distinct medicinal properties Arogya Pacha has been in use for centuries by the Kaani tribal community of the Agastya Koodam ranges in Kerala, for its medicinal properties. It was an accidental discovery made a team lead by Scientists of TBGRI during the Ethnomedico-Botanical exploration to the Agastyar valley areas of Thiruvananthapuram District, Kerala, India, which is located in the southern most part of the Western Ghats that this plant has restorative and anti-fatigue properties. The discovery of the unique property of the plant was based on the leads obtained from disclosures by the Kani tribe people who accompanied the group as Porters and Guides.
Synonyms: Trichopodium zeylanicum, Trichopodium travancoricum, Trichopus malayanus

Botanical Details
• Scientific Name: Trichopus zylanicus
• Family: Dioscoreaceae
• Genus: Trichopus
• Species: zylanicus
• Order: Dioscoreales
Malayalam name: Arogya pacha
Tamil name: Arogyapachai
Medicinal Uses:
The primary uses of Trichopus zylanicus revolve around its rhizomes, which are rich in bioactive compounds. It is commonly used in traditional medicine for its adaptogenic properties, meaning it helps the body resist physical, environmental, and emotional stress.
o Anti-fatigue: The rhizomes are believed to increase energy levels and stamina. It has been used to combat chronic fatigue and general weakness.
o Enhancing Vitality: It is known for boosting overall vitality and immunity.
o Cognitive and Physical Performance: It is used to improve cognitive function and mental clarity, as well as to enhance physical performance, especially in people experiencing mental and physical exhaustion.
o Tonic for General Health: It is also used as a general tonic to promote overall health and wellness.
• Ayurvedic and Folk Medicine: The plant is particularly valuable in Ayurveda and traditional herbal medicine in South India. The rhizomes are sometimes prepared as powder or extract and consumed for rejuvenation and strengthening the body’s defenses.
• Conservation and Sustainability: Due to its rarity, Trichopus zylanicus is also the subject of conservation efforts, as it is found in the Western Ghats of India and faces the threat of habitat loss and over-harvesting.
6. Conservation Status
• Trichopus zylanicus is considered rare and endangered in the wild due to habitat destruction, deforestation, and its high demand for medicinal purposes. Efforts are being made to conserve this plant through in-situ and ex-situ conservation methods.
________________________________________