Status of Plants as Depicted in Oṣadhisūkta of the Ṛgveda Saṁhitā: IKS Perspective

Abstract

Plants have status of divine mother as stated by the Vedic seers. Plants and herbs serve as the medicine to overcome diseases. Indian Knowledge System (IKS) division of the Government of India initiates research on traditional wisdom. Regarding protection of plants many initiative have been taken care by many global level organizations in the modern age. In Vedic age, the seers were well-conscious on the protection of plants and herbs. So, plants are worshiped as the divine Gods who protect mankind from diseases. Āyurveda’s use of plants for medicinal and nutritional purposes dates back more than five millennia. Over this long period of time, it has recognized that every plant has potential medicinal value. Its long-standing tradition has led to a deep understanding of plant properties. The thoughts developed on plants in the oṣadhisūkta of the Ṛgveda Saṁhitā are significant. So, this present study humbly attempts to discuss the status of herbs and plants from IKS perspective.