Herb with anti-HIV properties

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Jalandhar, Jan 22 (UNI) A rare herb 'Argemone Mexicana' (Swarnkshiri), now gaining wide popularity for its anti-HIV properties, has been discovered in Himachal Pradesh, claims Aromatic Plant Growers Association of India (APGAI) and Herbs Antique Research Botanical (HARB) Society president R S Guleria.

Talking to reporters here today, Mr Guleria said that the rare herb, which is being eagarly studied by the global scientific community for achieving a viable anti-AIDS medicine, is prevalent in America and was believed to have died out in India.

However, the plant has been re-discovered in Shahpur tehsil area of Kangra district in Himachal Pradesh and its identity confirmed scientifically as Argemone Mexicana, Mr Guleria said.

The herb called 'Hirvi' found in Jammu and Kashmir, is also believed to be the same Argemone Mexicana.

Mr Guleria said that the plant is 2 to 4 feet in height with thorns, yellow flowers and secretes yellow milk-like substance when punctured.

Various parts of the plant have been traditionally used in these states for treating various kind of ailments, he said.

''The seed-oil is beneficial in skin problems, the herb soaked in lime juice solution and consumed as a drink to cure malaria, roots are believed to be beneficial for treating scorpion bites whereas its juice with milk is used to treat leprosy patients.