New population report of the ‘Critically Endangered’ Golden Himalayan Spike Phlomoides superba (Magnoliopsida: Lamiales: Lamiaceae) from Samba and Udhampur districts of Jammu & Kashmir, India
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11609/jott.9069.17.12.28125-28130Keywords:
Conservation, Eremostachys superba, gajar moola, ornamental plant, threatened species, veterinary, women infertilityAbstract
The present study reports four newly discovered populations of the critically endangered Phlomoides superba (Royle ex Benth.) Kamelin & Makhm. from the Shiwalik region of Samba and Udhampur districts in Jammu & Kashmir, India. The species holds significant ethnoveterinary importance, particularly its roots, which are traditionally used to treat mastitis and enhance milk production in cattle. However, excessive utilisation for these purposes (82.4%) and a strong competition from the invasive weed Lantana camara L. (14.7%), have contributed to a marked decline in its natural populations. To mitigate these threats, informants recommended in situ conservation interventions such as controlling Lantana camara invasion and adopting sustainable usage of root tubers. The discovery of new populations not only broadens the known range of Phlomoides superba but also enhances its survival prospects by increasing genetic diversity and diminishing the species’ susceptibility to extinction. Furthermore, comprehensive phytochemical and pharmacological studies are strongly recommended to scientifically validate its traditional medicinal uses, isolate and characterize bioactive constituents, and assess its potential for the development of novel therapeutic agents in the future. These scientific assessments, combined with conservation-focused utilisation, are crucial for ensuring the long-term preservation and sustainable use of this valuable ethnomedicinal species.
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