The Ministry of AYUSH, which stands for Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy, has initiated a nationwide campaign titled “AYUSH AAPKE DWAR”. This campaign was launched simultaneously from over 45 locations across India, marking a significant step towards promoting traditional medicine systems. The initiative focuses on the distribution of medicinal plants to encourage people to incorporate these plants into their daily lives for better health and wellness.
Objectives of the Campaign
“AYUSH AAPKE DWAR” aims to connect the general public with the health benefits of traditional medicinal plants. The campaign’s primary goal is to distribute medicinal plants to 75 lakh households throughout the country within the span of one year. By doing so, the Ministry of AYUSH intends to raise awareness about the importance of these plants in preventive healthcare and to encourage people to nurture and use them in their homes.
Distribution of Medicinal Plants
During the launch of the campaign, more than 2 lakh saplings of various medicinal plants were distributed to individuals and communities. This act of distribution is not only a symbolic gesture but also a practical step towards achieving the larger goal of the campaign. The government has actively called upon people to adopt these plants and take responsibility for their care, thereby ensuring that the benefits of the plants are realized.
Varieties of Medicinal Plants Distributed
The selection of plants for distribution under the “AYUSH AAPKE DWAR” campaign includes a diverse range of species known for their medicinal properties. These plants have been carefully chosen based on their utility in the traditional systems of medicine and their adaptability to different climatic conditions across India. The list of distributed plants includes:
– Tejpatta (Bay Leaf)
– Stevia (a natural sweetener)
– Ashoka (an important plant in Ayurveda)
– Jatamansi (Spikenard)
– Giloy/Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia)
– Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
– Kumari (Aloe vera)
– Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus)
– Lemongrass (Cymbopogon)
– Guggulu (Commiphora wightii)
– Tulsi (Holy Basil)
– Sarpagandha (Rauwolfia serpentina)
– Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata)
– Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri)
– Amla (Indian Gooseberry)
These plants are renowned for their health-promoting properties and are commonly used in various Ayurvedic preparations.
Encouraging Traditional Healthcare Practices
By promoting the cultivation and use of medicinal plants, the Ministry of AYUSH seeks to reinforce the value of traditional healthcare practices. The campaign highlights the role of these plants in maintaining health and preventing diseases, especially in the context of the increasing burden of lifestyle-related disorders. It also emphasizes the ecological benefits of planting medicinal herbs, which contribute to biodiversity and environmental sustainability.
Impact on Society and Healthcare
The “AYUSH AAPKE DWAR” campaign has the potential to make a significant impact on society by fostering a culture of self-care and natural wellness. By bringing medicinal plants into homes, the initiative hopes to integrate traditional knowledge with modern lifestyles. Additionally, it can potentially reduce healthcare costs by providing natural and affordable remedies readily available to the public.
In summary, the “AYUSH AAPKE DWAR” campaign represents a concerted effort by the Indian government to revive and promote traditional medicinal systems through the widespread distribution of medicinal plants. It encourages the public to embrace these natural resources for health and wellbeing, while also preserving the rich heritage of Indian traditional medicine.
