USEFUL WEEDS OF WEST BENGAL

RICE FIELDS

S. C . DATTA AND A . K . BANERJEE ~

Out of 158 weed species collected from rice fields of Hooghly and Midnapore districts
of West Bengal, 124 possess economic importance in one way or other. The various uses
of these weeds may aid dealers in crude drugs, manufacturers of plant products, or persons
interested in the beneficial aspects of plants.

During cultural operations in rice fields,
many weeds are uprooted and thrown away.
It would be of interest to find out whether
such weeds could be profitably used else-
where. The object of this study is to com-
pile such information on these weeds and to
show that most of them have beneficial prop-
erties. Maiti ( 9 ), while surveying paddy fields
in West Bengal, came across 48 plant species
utilized in indigenous systems of medicine. It
is evident from the present review that there
are uses of weeds other than in medicine.
In a comprehensive survey of rice-field
weeds in the districts of Hooghly and Midna-
pore, West Bengal, during 1969-1974, we
collected, identified, and preserved 158 spe-
cies. The economic qualities of these weeds
have been ascertained from Watt (15), Kir-
tikar and Basu (7), Tadulingam and Venka-
tanarayana (13), Biswas and Calder (1), van
Steenis (14), Wealth of India (16), Chopra,
Bhadwar, and Ghosh (3), Chopra, Nayar, and
Chopra (4), Gamble ( 6 ), Bor ( 2 ), Dastur ( 5 ),
Subramanyam (12), Maheshwari and Singh
(8), Sculthorpe (10), and Sharma (11).
Hereafter, the names of these 15 groups of
informants are abbreviated as W, KB, TV,
BC, VS, WI, CBG, CNC, G, B, D, Su, MS,
Sc, and Sh respectively. The families are ar-
ranged in the sequence of Engler's system;
the species, alphabetically. Following the
scientific name and local name (if available)
of each weed is a list in parenthesis of inform-
ants, indicating the volume number and/or
page number of relevant literature. Next the
use or uses are given.
APONOGETONACEAE
Aponogeton natans (L.) Engl. & Krause
(Su: 92; WI, 1: 88)
The stoloniferous rootstock is edible.
HYDROCHARITACEAE
Hydrilla verticillata (L.f.) Royle
( Jhangi )
(BC: 72; Sc: 521; Su: 55; VS, 5: 387; WI,
5:145 )
The plant, used as fodder, is a potential
green manure. A good oxygenator, it is suit-
able for outdoor and indoor aquaria. Some
kinds of fish eat it.
Ottelia alismoides (L.) Pers.
( Parmikalla )
(Sc: 520; VS, 5: 398; WI, 7: 194)
The plant is said to be a rubefacient. In
aquaria, it serves as fish food. The fruits are
eaten by children. For their excellent aroma,
the leaves are used as a vegetable.
GRAMINEAE

~Department of Botany, University of Calcutta, Alloteropsis cimieina (L.) Stapf

Calcutta 700019, India.
Submitted for publication November 12, 1975; (B: 276)
accepted for publication February 12, 1976. The plant is grazed by cattle.

ECONOMIC BOTANY 32: 297-310. July-September, 1978 297

I~) 1979 The New York Botanical Garden
Published for The Society for Economic Botany
Apluda mutica L.
(B: 94; MS: 13)
Young plants are a source of fodder.
Brachiaria reptans (L.) Gard. & C. E. Hubb.
(B: 285)
The plant is a source of fodder.
Chloris inflata Link.
(B: 465; WI, 2: 130)
The plant is a source of fodder prior to
flowering but is not relished by cattle later.
It is not suitable for hay or silage because
the loss of weight when dry is tremendous.
Chrysopogon aciculatus (Retz.) Trin.
( Chor-kanta )
(B: 115; CNC: 63; MS: 40; WI, 2: 151)
The plant can withstand heavy grazing.
Eaten by cattle before flowering, it is not
palatable later. It is suitable for lawns if it
is mowed frequently. In Indonesia, the culms
are woven into cigarette cases. They may
also be used for brushes.
Coix lachryma-jobi L,
( Gurgar, Sankru )
(B: 264; CNC: 73; D: 85; KB, 2: 1363; W,
2: 499; WI, 2: 305)
The foliage can be turned into ensilage.
Mature leaves and straw furnish thatch. The
grains are used for ornamental purposes. De-
hulled, they can be fed to poultry. They are
a good substitute for rice because of their
high protein content. They are made into
a beverage in Japan and are used by the
Nagas for preparing a light beer, "dzu." The
roots are administered in strangury and men-
strual complaints by the Santals.
Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.
( Durba, Dhub )
(B: 57; CNC: 88; KB, 2: 1376; MS: 54; TV:
323; W, 2: 679; W1, 2: 421)
The plant is a valuable pasture grass and
can be fed green or made into hay. It can
poison livestock by release of hydrocyanic
acid in hot dry weather. One of the best
grasses for soil binding, it is recommended
for checking erosion. A preparation of the
298
plant is considered diuretic, being useful in
treatment of anasarca and dropsy. The ex-
pressed juice, astringent, is employed in
hysteria, insanity, epilepsy, diarrhoea, dysen-
tery, cuts, and wounds.
Dactyloctenium aegyptium (L.) Beauv.
( Makra )
(B: 58; CNC: 89; KB, 2: 1379; MS: 55; W,
3: 236)
The plant is a nutritious fodder, being
considered suitable for fattening and milk
producing. It can poison livestock by release
of hydrocyanic acid in hot dry weather. The
grains are a famine food. Parched grains are
administered to women who suffer from
stomachache after childbirth. The herba-
ceous parts are applied externally to treat
ulcers. A decoction of the seed is used to
relieve kidney pains.
Dichanthium annulatum (Forsk.) Stapf
( Loari )
(B: 133; MS: 58; WI, 3: 55)
A wild fodder, it can be fed green both
before and during flowering.
Digitaria sanguinalis ( L. ) Scop.
(B: 304; WI, 3: 62)
A fodder, it can be used either green or
dry.
Echinochloa colonum (L.) Link.
( Sami-dhan, Sanwal )
[B: 308; MS: 62; W, 6(ia): 7; WI, 3: 124]
A quick-growing fodder, it is liked by
cattle at all stages. Its nutritive value is in-
creased when in grain. The grains are a
famine food. In Indonesia, the young shoots
are eaten.
Eleusine indica (L.) Gaertn.
( Mal-ankuri )
(B: 493; CNC: 106; MS: 63; W, 3: 241; WI,
3:166 )
The plant is valued as a fodder in Austra-
lia and North America. The leaves are re-
puted to be strongly cyanogenic, especially
when wilted. The grains are a famine food. In
the Philippines, the culms are made into hats.
ECONOMIC BOTANY
Eragrostis coarctata Stapf apud Hook. f.
( Jinkua )
(WI, 3: 183)
The plant is used as fodder.
E. diarrhena (Schult.) Steud.
(WI, 3: 183)
The plant is grazed by cattle.
E. gangetica (Roxb.) Steud.
(WI, 3: 183)
Prized as fodder, the plant is fed both
green or as hay. It is used for making brooms
in parts of Madhya Pradesh.
E. tenella (L.) Beauv. ex Roem. & Schult.
(W, 3: 255; WI, 3: 182)
The grass is fed either green or as hay to
cattle. The grains are said to be nutritious.
E. uniloides ( Retz.) Nees ex Steud.
( Koni )
(WI, 3: 183)
The grass is eaten by horses and cattle.
It is ploughed in as a green manure when
growing profusely in rice fields.
Eriochloa procera (Retz.) C. E. Hubb.
(WI, 3: 189)
The plant is a good cattle feed.
Hemarthria compressa (L.f.) R. Br.
( Pansheru )
(B: 161; WI, 5: 31)
The plant is esteemed as a fodder in Aus-
tralia and Africa.
Imperata cylindrica (L.) Beauv.
( Ulu, Dabh )
(CNC: 140: D: 128; MS: 86; W, 4: 336; WI,
5:169 )
While the tender and succulent shoots are
palatable to livestock, mature leaves are not
relished and the saw-like margins cause sores
in the mouths of animals. The rhizomes are
consumed by pigs.
The grass provides mulch for some crops.
In the Philippines, it prevents development
of the sugarcane parasite Aeginetia indica.
In Sumatra, tobacco fields become infested
USEFUL WEEDS OF W E S T B E N G A L RICE FIELDS
with the grass, which harbours the bacterium
Pseudomonas solanacearum; burning the
grass is considered a boon to the tobacco
crop.
Considered appropriate for reclaiming dry
and desert regions, the grass acts as a soil
binder, being important for coastal sand dunes,
dams, embankments, and river banks.
In Malaysia, a type of beer is prepared by
fermenting an infusion of the rhizomes. Sugar
is made from the rhizomes after elimination
of bitter constituents.
The flossy inflorescence is used to stuff
pillows and cushions. The leaves are a dur-
able thatch. The dried grass serves as fuel
in South China. In Uganda, it is used for
firing pottery together with stems of elephant
grass (Pennisetum purpureum). The grass
is woven into plates and baskets and made
into brushes, cowry bags, mats, and ropes.
In India, it has been tried as a raw material
for paper pulp.
When taken internally, the fruiting spikes
are considered sedative in the Philippines.
The seeds are considered vulnerary, being
used to stop bleeding. The rhizomes are
used as a fumigant for piles in Cambodia as
well as a tonic, antipyretic, and restorative in
China. A preparation from the rootstock is
administered to patients suffering from gonor-
rhoea, diarrhoea, or dysentery.
Ischaemum rugosum Salisb.
( Moraro )
(MS: 88; W, 4: 532; WI, 5: 272)
The plant is a good fodder. The grains
are consumed by poorer classes in parts of
Madhya Pradesh.
Leers& hexandra Sw.
( Jungli dhan )
(MS: 95; W, 4: 620; WI, 6: 59)
The [,iant, highly prized as a fodder in
Australia, can be fed either green or as hay.
Leptoch!oa chinensis (L.) Nees
I W, 4: 630; WI, 6: 74)
The plant is a good fodder. The grains
are a famine food in East Mrica.
Oplismenus burmannii ( Retz. ) Beauv.
(MS: 115; W, 5: 489; WI, 7: 99)
299
 An excellent fodder, the plant can be fed
either green or as hay. It is suitable for
lawns in areas of abundant rainfall. An
extract of the plant is used in Indonesia
during pregnancy.
Panicum austroasiaticum Ohwi
( WI, 7: 230)
The plant provides good forage for cattle.
P. psilopodium Trin.
(WI, 7: 231)
The plant is a useful fodder. In Assam,
the grains are used in preparing an alcoholic
beverage.
P. repens L.
[B: 330; MS: 118; TV: 325; W, 6(ia): 15;
WI, 7: 228]
The plant can be fed to cattle either green
or as hay. It is a good soil binder. In Indo-
nesia, the rhizome is useful to treat abnormal
menstruation.
P. trypheron Schult.
(B: 331; WI, 7: 231)
The plant is highly regarded as a fodder.
The grains, resembling white Italian millet
(Setaria italica ), are a famine food.
Paspalidium flavidum ( Retz.) A. Camus
(W, 5: 9; WI, 7: 268)
The grass is considered a useful fodder,
although the roots and leaves are stated to
be slightly cyanogenic. The grains are re-
ported to be used by people in times of
scarcity.
P. punctatum (Burm.) A. Camus
( Peti-nar )
( WI, 7:268 )
The plant is useful as a fodder.
Paspalum scorbiculatum L.
( Khodoadhan, Koda )
]B: 340; CBG, 2: 935; CNC: 186; MS: 119;
W, 6(ia): 111; WI, 7: 270]
The grass, when young, and the straw are
a suitable feed for livestock. It is of use as
manure for alkaline soils. The grains, recom-
300
mended as a diet for diabetic patients, are
cooked like rice and are made into bread.
However, immature or newly harvested grains
contain toxic elements. The husk is some-
times used as fuel. The sap of the plant is a
cure for scorpion sting.
Perotis indica (L.) O. Ktze.
(WI, 7: 314)
The plant is reported to be a good fodder,
and is liked by livestock at all stages.
Saccharum spontaneum L.
( Kash, Kans)
[B: 214; CNC: 217; D: 183; MS: 140; W,
6(ii): 11; WI, 9: 103]
The plant is a favourite fodder for buf-
faloes and is fed to elephants. It is a sand
binder. The leaves are used for making
ropes, for thatching roofs, and for paper pulp
and fuel. The plant, considered aphrodisiac
and laxative, is reported to be effective in
cases of strangury, phthisis, blood diseases,
biliousness, vesicat calculi, painful urination,
and burning sensations.
Setaria glauca (L.) Beauv.
[B: 361; MS: 145; W, 6(6); 546; WI, 9: 305]
This is a fodder, the grains being also
edible. In Russia, the grains are used for
preparing alcohol and as poultry feed. The
plant is reported to be a lawn grass.
Sporobolus diander ( Retz. ) Beauv.
( Bena-joni )
(MS: 146)
The plant is a fodder grass.
Urochloa helopus (Trin.) Stapf
( Jal-ganti )
(G, 3: 1230)
The plant is a fodder grass. The grains
are eaten by poorer classes.
Vetiveria zizanioides ( L. ) Nash
( Khas-khas )
(CNC: 254; D: 219; MS: 165)
The grass is made into board and paper.
The roots are woven into baskets, curtains,
fans, and mats and yield an essential oil used
ECONOMIC BOTANY
in cosmetics, soaps, and perfumes and to
flavour sherbets. A paste of the roots is ef-
fectual in swellings.
CYPERACEAE
Cyperus iria L.
( Bara choncha )
(CNC: 88; MS: 54; W, 2: 685)
Mats are made from the culms. The plant
is astringent, stimulant, stomachic, and tonic.
C. kyllinga Endl.
( Swet gothubi )
(CNC: 148; KB, 2: 1353; W, 4: 569; WI,
5:331 )
The sedge is fed to cattle but is harmful
in the seeding stage. The roots, stems, and
nutlets are reported to be weakly cyanogenic.
The plant is a panacea against measles in
Celebes and diarrhoea in Malaysia. It is a
remedy for fistula, tumours, and pustules as
well as intestinal and stomach complaints.
The spikes are used as a poultice for gathered
nails. The rhizome decoction is considered
demulcent, diuretic, refrigerant, sudorific,
and tonic. The root serves as an antidote
for poisoning.
C. rotundus L.
( Motha )
(D: 91; KB, 2: 1355; MS: 54; TV: 317; W,
2: 686; WI, 2: 424)
Dry tubers are used in perfumery and in
making incense sticks. The tubers are con-
sidered astringent, providing relief to people
afflicted with bowel irritations and stomach
disorders.
C. triceps Rottb.
(CNC: 148; KB, 2: 1353; WI, 5: 332)
The root extract is used in diabetes and
to relieve thirst in fevers.
Fimbristylis annua (All.) Roem. & Schult.
( Bara nirbishi )
(WI, 4: 41)
In the Maldives, the stems are made into
mats.
USEFUL WEEDS OF W E S T B E N G A L RICE FIELDS
F. dichotoma Vahl
(WI, 4: 41)
The roots are highly aromatic, probably
from the presence of an essential oil.
F. falcata ( Vahl ) Kunth.
(CNC: 120; W, 3: 363; WI, 4: 42)
The roots are said to be used in dysentery
by the Santals.
F. littoral& Gand.
( Bara javani)
(WI, 4: 41)
A fodder, this weed is readily devoured
by cattle.
Scirpus articulatus L.
( Pappati chickha )
(CNC: 224; KB, 2: 1358; WI, 8: 258)
Dried plants are used for thatching. The
tubers are effective against diarrhoea and
vomiting.
S. grossus L.f.
( Bara kesuria )
(CNC: 224; KB, 2: 1358; Sc: 520; Su: 106;
WI, 9: 257)
Dried plants are used as roof covers.
Green plants and rhizomes find use as fodder.
The culms are woven into baskets, bags, and
mats. The highly nutritious tubers have
astringent, cooling, diuretic, laxative, and
tonic properties.
ARACEAE
Pistia stratiotes L. var. cuneata Engl.
( Tokapana, Jalkhumbi )
(CNC: 224; KB, 2: 1358; Sc: 520; Su: 106;
WI, 8: 123)
The plants are used as food for ducks,
fishes, ostriches, and pigs and provide manure
in Southeast Asia and tropical Africa. Young
leaves, cooked, are consumed by the Chinese.
The leaves are used in the treatment of dysen-
tery, haemorrhoids, asthma, coughs, and skin
diseases.
301
 COMMEHNACEAE
Commelina diffusa Burm.f.
(CNC: 74; WI, 2: 313)
The leaves serve both as fodder and a
vegetable. Bruised plants are applied for
boils, burns, and itches.
Cyanotis axillaris Roem. & Schult.
(CNC: 86; KB, 2: 1309)
The plant is applied externally in cases of
ascites and is a remedy for tympanites.
Murdannia malabarica ( L. ) Brueckner
( Kandule )
(CNC: 18)
The plant is used to treat leprosy.
PONTEDERIACEAE
Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms
( Kachuri-pana )
(BC: 57; VS, 4: 259; Sc: 521; Sh: 51; Su:
70; TV: 307)
The plants have been used mainly as fer-
tiliser, mulch, and compost; as fodder, silage,
and food for horses, pigs, cattle, sheep, and
fish; as raw material for paper, plastics, ink,
upholstery, soap, etc.; and as a source of
gases, protein, potash, etc.
POLYGONACEAE
Polygonum hydropiper L.
( Packurmul )
[CBG, 2: 733; CNC: 200; KB, 2: 1077; W,
6(tb): 318; WI, 8: 198]
The plant can be used as a fish poison
and to dye wool yellow. The fresh plant is
so toxic that animals do not touch it normal-
ly. The bruised leaves and seeds are used
externally and as a substitute for mustard
poultice in indigenous medicine.
P. plebejum R. Br.
( Chikni-sag )
[CNC: 200; KB, 2: 1074; W, 6(~b): 319; WI,
8:201 ]
302
The plants are eaten by horses and are
used as vegetables. The rootstock is given
for bowel complaints; and the powdered herb
for pneumonia.
AMARANTHACEAE
Achyranthes aspera L.
( Apang, Chichira )
(CNC: 4; D: 10; KB, 2: 1061; TV: 267; VS,
4: 88; WI, 1: 24)
The plant, rich in potash, can be used as
a cheap green manure. In the Moluccas, the
young leaves are used as spinach. The plant
decoction, useful in renal dropsy, is reputed
to be diuretic. The flowering spikes or seeds
are used externally for insect bites.
Alternanthera sessilis ( L. ) DC.
( Chanchi )
(CNC: 14; KB, 2: 1063; VS, 4: 92; WI, 1: 64)
The plant is used as a potherb, the young
shoots being nutritious and containing pro-
tein and iron. It is eaten in Sri Lanka by
mothers to increase milk flow. It is valued
as a febrifuge, as a wash for the eyes, as a
cooling hair wash, as a remedy against in-
testinal cramps, and as a cure for snakebite.
Amaranthus gracilis Desf.
(CNC: 15; TV: 265; VS, 4: 76)
The plant is used as a vegetable. The
leaves are an emollient in scorpion sting, and
the plant is useful in snakebite.
Celosia argentea L.
( Swet moragphul )
(CNC: 57; KB, 2: 1056; TV: 257; VS, 4: 73;
WI, 2: 113)
The plant is used as a potherb, although
an inferior one. The seeds are used by the
Chinese for adorning cakes. They are also
considered useful for diarrhoea, blood dis-
eases, mouth sores, and eye troubles.
Digera alternifolia ( L. ) Asch.
( Luta mahauria, Gungatiay)
(CNC: 96; MS: 58; TV: 261; W, 3: 112; WI,
2: 59)
ECONOMIC BOTANY
 The plant is eaten by cattle. The tender
shoots and inflorescences are used as a vege-
table. The flowers and seeds are considered
efficacious for urinary discharges.
AIZOACEAE
Glinus lotoides L.
(CNC: 168; KB, 1: 614; TV: 149; W, 5: 255;
WI, 4: 136)
The tender shoots are edible. The dried
plant is a helpful purgative in abdominal dis-
orders, and the juice is given internally to
weak children.
G. oppositifolius (L.) A. DC.
[CBG, 1: 428; CNC: 246; KB, 1: 613; MS:
160; TV: 143; VS, 4: 274; W, 4(iv): 77]
The leaves and stems are consumed as a
vegetable, but such consumption is accom-
panied by toxic effects like diarrhoea and
paralysis. The plant extract is a cure for
rheumatism and is an antidote for alcoholic
poison. The roots, reported to be irritant
and cathartic, are used to induce abortion.
PORTULACACEAE
Portulaca oleracea L.
( Bara laniya )
[CNC: 202; KB, 1: 135; TV: 77; W, 6(?o):
330; WI, 8: 219]
With caution, the plant can be used as
food for pigs, cattle, and sheep. The young
shoots are eaten as a vegetable. Having
astringent and detergent properties, the juice
can be used to relieve burning sensations and
prickly heat. The seeds are effective against
bladder, kidney, and lung diseases.
CARYOPHYLLACEAE
Polycarpon prostratum (Forsk.) Asch. &
Schwein.f.
( Gima, Sureta )
(WI, 8: 189)
The plants are used as a vegetable. In
Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, an infusion of
U S E F U L W E E D S O F WEST BENGAL RICE FIELDS
roasted leaves is given for coughs following
fever in measles.
NYMPHAEACEAE
Nymphaea stellata Willd.
( Nilpadma )
(BC: 10; KB, 1: 72; MS: 112; Sc: 520; WI,
7: 72)
The tender leaves, flower peduncles, and
rhizomes are edible. The seeds are a famine
food; their extract is considered an invigorat-
ing tonic. An infusion of rhizomes is re-
garded as diuretic and emollient; the powdered
rhizome is administered in cases of piles, dys-
pepsia, and diarrhoea. The leaves are pre-
scribed in erysipelas in Malagasy.
PAPAVERACEAE
Argemone mexicana L.
( Bara sheal-kanta )
(CBG, 1: 143; CNC: 23; D: 34; KB, 1: 79;
MS: 14; TV: 63; VS, 5: 117; WI, 1: 116)
The plant is cultivated as an ornamental
in Malaysia. It is used in Uttar Pradesh to
reclaim "usar" land. The seed oil serves as
an illuminant and lubricant. It is used in
skin diseases for external application and as
an aperient in the West Indies. The yellow
juice, exuding from the plant when injured,
is used externally in scabies and opthalmia.
The bruised fresh root is effective against
scorpion sting. The seeds are considered de-
mulcent, emetic, expectorant, laxative, and
nauseant.
CAPPARIDACEAE
Polanisia viscosa (L.) DC.
(Hurhuria, Kanphuti )
(KB, 1: 98; MS: 44; TV: 71; W, 2: 370)
The seeds are used in curries. The leaf
juice is applied to ear and forehead to re-
lieve earache and headache respectively. In
Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, the whole
plant is used for counterirritation and blister-
ing. The seeds, carminative and anthelmintic,
are given in diarrhoea and fevers.
303
 DROSERACEAE
Drosera burmannff Vahl
( Mukha-jali )
(CBG, 1: 375; CNC: 101; W, 3: 195; WI,
3: 113)
The plant is not eaten by cattle since it
has powerful rubefacient properties on ac-
count of napthaquinone. It yields an orange
colour suitable for dyeing silk.
LEGUMINOSAE
Aeschynomene aspera L.
( Sola )
(BC: 15; D: 18; MS: 5; Su: 14; WI, 1: 35)
The leaves are edible. The pith-like stem
of the plant is converted into sun hats, toys,
models, artificial flowers, swimming belts,
rafts, fishing floats, and bottle plugs. The
pith is used for embedding plant parts for
cutting free-hand sections in the laboratory.
A. indica L.
( Bhath-sola )
(D: 18; MS: 5; WI, 1: 35)
The stem -- not so soft as that of A. aspera
and cheaper--is used for "sola" hats, fishing
floats, elephant pads, and floats for people
crossing rivers. The wood is employed as
fuel for firing pottery. Charcoal made from
the plant is utilised for making fireworks and
gunpowder.
Alysicarpus vaginalis DC.
(WI, 1: 66)
In the Philippines, the plant is a good for-
age. In Malaysia, it is cultivated as a cover
crop in rubber plantations. In Indonesia, the
root decoction is reportedly used for coughs.
Desmodium triflorum (L.) DC.
( Kuddalia )
(CNC: 94; KB, 1: 429; MS: 57; W, 3: 84;
WI, 3: 42)
Highly suited for dry rocky soils, the plant
is grown as a soil binder. It is useful for lawn
or pastures and has been tried as a cover
crop in rubber estates or as a green manure
304
crop in coconut plantations but is not proper
for tea plantations. A paste of the bruised
leaves is applied to itches and indolent sores.
Fresh leaves are used as a galactagogue and
for diarrhoea, abscesses, and wounds.
Sesbania cannabina (Retz.) Pers.
( Daincha )
[KB, 1: 418; W, 6(ii): 542; WI, 9: 293]
The plant is a fodder for cattle, sheep,
and goats. Popular as green manure for
coconut, cotton, rice, sugarcane, and wheat,
it is efficacious in reclamation of alkaline and
saline soils. It yields a useful cordage fibre.
The seeds are a famine food.
Smithia sensitiva Ait.
( Nala-kashina, Oda-brini )
[CNC: 229; W, 6(iii): 255; WI, 9: 368]
The plant makes good hay and cattle
browse on it. The leaves are a vegetable. In
Malagasy, the plant is used as a lotion for
headache. In Java, the herb is boiled and
given for gravel as well as difficulty in
micturition.
OXALIDACEAE
Biophytum sensi'tivum DC.
( Lak-chana )
(KB, 1: 237; WI, 1: 187)
The leaves are considered diuretic and are
used to allay thirst in bilious fevers. The
root decoction is given in lithiasis and gonor-
rhoea. The powdered seeds are applied to
wounds. The plant is said to be used for
chest complaints and its ash for stomachache.
EUPHORBIACEAE
Chrozophora rottleri ( Geis. ) Juss. ex Spreng.
(Khudi-okra, Souballi)
(CNC: 62; CBG, 2: 774; KB, 2: 1159; TV:
300; W, 2: 621; WI, 2: 142)
As it is an acrid and poisonous plant, her-
bivorous animals do not browse on it. The
sterns are used as fuel, and the bark forms a
strong fibre. The leaves are regarded as de-
purative. Ashes of the roots are administered
ECONOMIC BOTANY
to children in cases of cough. The seeds are
utilized as a purgative.
Croton bonplandianum Baill.
( Kukurshuka )
(TV: 297; WI, 2: 383)
Since the plant is rich in nitrogen and pot-
ash, it is good for composting. The seed oil
has drying properties. The oil cake can be
used as a form of manure.
Euphorbia hirta L.
( Bara-kerui, Dudhi )
(CNC: 113; CBG, 2: 784; TV: 289; WI, 3:
225 )
The plant serves in gargles and as a poul-
tice. It is useful in dysentery and colic, as a
vermifuge, and in genito-urinary diseases.
E. parviflora L.
(CNC: 114; CBG, 2: 785; KB, 2: 1121; W,
3: 296; WI, 3: 225)
Dry leaf infusion of the plant, being weak-
ly narcotic and astringent, is used in diar-
rhoea, dysentery, leucorrhoea, menorrhoea,
and sometimes colic.
E. thymifolia Burm.
( Swet-kerui, Chota-dudhi )
(CNC: 114; CBG, 2: 787; KB, 2: 1124; W,
3: 300; WI, 3: 227)
Dried leaves and seeds--astringent, an-
thelmintic, laxative, and stimulant - are given
to children in bowel complaints. The juice
serves as a cure for ringworm. The plant
yields a green essential oil that has an irritat-
ing and pungent smell and is used as a vermi-
fuge for dogs and farm foxes, as a spray to
keep off mosquitoes and flies, and in medici-
nal soaps for treatment of erysipelas.
Phyllanthus fraternus Webster
(CNC: 191; KB, 2: 1143; TV: 295; WI, 8: 34)
The milky juice is applied to offensive
sores and ulcers. The roots are used for
treating camels suffering from digestive
troubles. The fresh root is a suitable remedy
for jaundice. The leaves are considered
stomachic. An infusion of young shoots is
given in dysentery, and stem juice mixed with
oil, in opthalmia.
USEFUL WEEDS OF W E S T B E N G A L RICE FIELDS
P. simplex Retz.
[CNC: 191; KB, 2: 1142; W, 6(ia): 223; WI,
8:361
The plant is reported to have antiseptic
properties. The leaf juice is used in eye dis-
eases in the Philippines. The root is an ex-
ternal application for mammary abscess. The
fresh leaves, bruised and mixed with butter-
milk, serve as a cure for children's itch.
P. urinaria L.
( Hazarmani )
[CNC: 191; CBG, 2: 799; KB, 2: 1142; W,
6(ia): 224; WI, 8: 36]
The plant is a fish poison and the leaves
are consumed by cattle. Medicinally, the
plant is used to treat gonorrhoea and other
genito-urinary troubles. The root is given
to sleepless children.
TILIACEAE
Corchorus aestuans L.
( Titapat )
(CNC: 76; WI, 2: 326)
The plant yields a fibre. The seeds are
used in pneumonia and are regarded as a
stomachic.
MALVACEAE
Sida acuta Burro.
( Kureta )
(CNC: 226; KB, 1: 170; MS: 146; WI, 9: 322)
The stem yields a cordage fibre. In Mex-
ico, it is cultivated as a substitute for jute.
Considered as astringent, cooling, and tonic,
the roots are used in urinary and nervous dis-
eases as well as disorders of bile and blood.
The leaves serve as an abortifacient in Africa
and for making a poultice for sores in the
Philippines.
S. rhomboidea Roxb.
( Lal berela )
[CBG, 1: 206; CNC: 227; KB, 1: 172; W,
6(ii): 681 ]
The stem yields a good fibre. In Europe,
the plant is used in rheumatism and pulmo-
305
nary tuberculosis. The leaves are applied on
swellings. The stem mucilage is used as a
demulcent and emollient. The plant is a cure
for snakebite.
STERCUHACEAE
Melochia corchorifoia L.
( Tiki-okra )
(CNC: 164; MS: 104; W, 5: 226; WI, 6: 333)
The leaves are used in soups and as a
vegetable. The stem yields a strong fibre for
making fishing lines and for tying bundles of
rice plants. The stems are also used for hori-
zontal ties in hut roofs. The leaves are used
for swellings and sores of the abdomen. A
decoction of leaves and roots are given in
cases of dysentery. The stem and leaves,
boiled in oil, are applied as a relief from the
bites of water snakes.
LYTHRACEAE
Ammannia baccifera L.
( Dadmari )
(CBG, 1: 391; CNC: 15; KB, 1: 564; WI,
1: 68)
The plant, highly acrid, emits a strong
muriatic odour. The fresh leaves are applied
as a rubifacient in skin diseases. The plant
juice is given internally in cases of spleen
enlargement.
ONAGRACEAE
Ludwigia adscendens ( L. ) Hara
( Kesara-dam )
(Sc: 520; Su: 19; WI, 5: 311)
The plant is applied in poultices or as a
paste for skin diseases and ulcers.
L. perennis L.
(WI, 6: 117)
The plant is boiled in oil and applied ex-
ternally to reduce fever.
UMBELLIFERAE
Centella asiatica (L.) Urban
( Thankuni )
306
(CBG, 1: 435; KB, 1: 618; MS: 37; VS, 6:
117; W, 4: 312; WI, 2: 116)
In Malaysia, the raw or steamed leaves
are eaten with rice. Fresh leaves eaten daily
are regarded as having the property of pro-
longing life. When leaves are used as fodder,
they increase secretion of milk in cows. The
plant is stated to have insecticidal properties
and is a beneficial cover crop in rubber and
tea plantations. It is considered alterative,
diuretic, and tonic, being used to cure mad-
ness and as an antidote for cholera. In India
and Malagasy, an infusion of the plant is used
to treat leprosy.
Seseli diffusum (Roxb. ex Sm. ) Santapau &
Wagh
( Ban-jowan )
[CNC: 226; KB, 1: 26; MS: 145; W, 6(ii):
545; WI, 9: 303]
The fruits are considered stomachic and
stimulant and are used to expel roundworms.
The seeds are reported to be carminative and
are used as cattle medicine.
GENTIANACEAE
Centaurium roxburghii (Don) Druce
( Gima, Charayatak )
(CNC: 58; KB, 2: 846)
The plant, considered powerfully bitter,
is used by the Santals in fever. It is a substi-
tute for "chiretta" (Swertia chirata ) in fevers.
Nymphoides cristatum (Roxb.) O. Ktze.
( Panchuli, Tagarmul )
(MS: 113; W, 4: 641; WI, 6: 114)
The leaves, stems, and fruits are consumed
after boiling or in curry. The plant is a sub-
stitute for "chiretta" in jaundice and fevers.
The seeds are said to be anthelmintic. The
leaves and stalks are pulverised with oil and
applied to insect bites and ulcers; a decoc-
tion is used as a wash for skin parasites.
APOCYNACEAE
Lochnera pusilla K. Schum.
[ KB, 2: 783; W, 6( iv ): 243 ]
The plant is reported to cause cattle
poisoning. In case of lumbago, a decoction
ECONOMIC BOTANY
of the dried plant, boiled in oil, is rubbed on
the loins.
CONVOLVULACEAE
Ipomoea aquatica Forsk.
( Kalmishak )
(BC: 36; CNC: 142; KB, 2: 880; MS: 87; Sc:
520; Su: 27; VS, 4: 473; W, 4: 477; WI,
5:237 )
As green fodder, the plant is relished by
pigs and cattle. It is also utilized as fish food.
Young terminal shoots are used as a vege-
table, the roots, as a famine food. The plant
is regarded as wholesome for women suffer-
ing from nervous and general debility. In
Burma, the plant juice is used as an emetic
in cases of arsenical or opium poisoning. The
dried juice is considered to be purgative. In
Cambodia, the plant is applied as a poultice
in febrile delirium. The buds are used for
treating ringworm; the plant, for piles.
Merremia emarginata ( Burm.f. ) Hall.f.
(KB, 2: 879; VS, 4: 444; WI, 6: 347)
The plant is a potherb. It is considered
as alterative and deobstruent. In the Philip-
pines, a decoction of tops and leaves is some-
times employed as a diuretic. The plant juice
is dropped into the ear to cure sores. In Java,
the plant is prescribed in coughs. It is also
used in neuralgia and rheumatism.
HYDROPHYLLACEAE
Hydrolea zeylanica (L.) Vahl
( Kasschra, Isha-langulia )
(CNC: 137; KB, 2: 855; Sc: 520; Su: 27; VS,
4: 207; W, 4: 315; WI, 5: 147)
The young leafy tops of the plant are
edible. The leaves, with cleaning and anti-
septic properties, are applied in poultices on
calluses and neglected ulcers.
BORAGINACEAE
Coldenia procumbens L.
( Tripunkhi )
(W, 2: 503; WI, 2: 307)
USEFUL WEEDS OF W E S T B E N G A L RICE FIELDS
The fresh leaves are applied on rheumatic
swellings. The plant is used externally to
cause suppuration of boils.
Heliotropium indicum L.
( Hatisura )
(CBG, 1: 57; CNC: 131; KB, 2: 865; TV:
200; W, 4: 215; WI, 5: 29)
The leaves dye an impermanent black
black colour. They and the stems contain
tannin and probably an alkaloidal principle.
The plant is astringent and bitter, having
diuretic, emollient, and vulnerary properties.
It is used locally for gumboils, sores, ulcers,
wounds, etc. A leaf decoction is used in urti-
caria and fevers; a root decoction, in fevers
and coughs; and a fruit decoction, in asthma,
leprosy, and other diseases. The flowers are
abortifacient in large doses and emmenagogue
in small doses.
H. ovalijblium Forsk.
( Naga-phuli )
(WI, 5: 30)
The plant is reported to be poisonous,
causing diarrhoea and vomiting. It is used
externally for syphilitic ulcers in Africa and
is sometimes administered internally.
VERBENACEAE
Phyla nodiflora (L.) Greene
(Bhui-okra, Bhuri okra)
(CNC: 155; KB, 2: 987; W, 78; WI, 6: 142)
In Egypt, the plant is considered suitable
for lawns. In Sri Lanka, the leaves are eaten.
In the Philippines, an infusion of the leaves
is taken as tea. The plant possesses cooling,
diuretic, and febrifuge properties. An infu-
sion of leaves and tender stalks is given to
women after delivery and to children suffer-
ing from indigestion. In Maharastra, the
plant is used as a demulcent in gonorrhoea
cases. A paste made from the plant is ap-
plied as a suppurant for boils, chronic indo-
lent ulcers, and swollen neck glands.
LABIATAE
Leucas cephalotes Spreng.
(Bara halkusa, Dhurpi sag)
307
(CNC: 153; CBG, 2: 709; KB, 2: 1044; MS:
96; W, 4: 633; WI, 6: 79)
The leaves are eaten. The seeds are used
as an auxiliary in dye extraction from Rubia
sikkimensis and yield an oil for illumination
purposes. The plant is pungent to the taste
and is stated to be anthelmintic, antiseptic,
diaphoretic, insecticidal, laxative, and stimu-
lant. The flowers are used for coughs and
colds.
SCROPHULARIACEAE
Bacopa monnieri (L.) Pennell
( Adha-birni, Safed chamni )
(BC: 30; CNC: 32; KB, 2: 930; Sc: 520; W,
4: 226; WI, 1: 143)
The whole plant is employed in indigenous
medicine as a nerve tonic, being a specific
for hysteria, insanity, and epilepsy. In Pondi-
cherry, the plant is considered an aphrodisiac.
In Sri Lanka, it is given in fevers. The leaves
and stems are used in snakebite.
Limnophila indica (L.) Druce
( Karpur )
(CNC: 154; KB, 2: 930; MS: 96; Sc: 520; Su:
30; WI, 6: 116)
The leaves are eaten as a potherb. The
plant has an agreeable odour suggestive of
oil of camphor or oil of lemon and is thus
endowed with antiseptic properties. In the
Philippines, an infusion of leaves is given
for dyspepsia and dysentery. The plant
juice is rubbed over the body in pestilent
fevers. A liniment made from the plant is
used in elephantiasis.
Lindernia cordi)blia (Colsm.) Merr.
(WI, 6: 118)
The plant is a remedy for gonorrhoea. It
is employed as a substitute for L. crustacea
(see below) in Malaysia.
L. crustacea (L.) F. Muell.
(WI, 6: 118)
The plant is said to possess a bitter prin-
ciple. In Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, it is
used for dysentery and bilious affections. It
is also used in poultices for boils.
308
ACANTHACEAE
Hygrophila auriculata ( Schum. ) Heine
( Kuliakhara, Kantakulika )
(CNC: 29; KB, 2: 955; MS: 16; Sc: 520; Su:
39; TV: 237; W, 4: 317; WI, 1: 133)
The roots, leaves, and seeds are considered
diuretic in Indian medicine. They have been
used for anasarca, dropsy, rheumatism, jaun-
dice, and genito-urinary diseases.
Justicia quinqueangularis Koen.
(WI, 5: 313)
The leaves are consumed as a potherb.
Rungia pectinata ( L. ) Nees
( Pindi )
[CNC: 217; KB, 2: 981; W, 6(tb): 592; WI,
9:931
The leaf juice is considered to be aperient
and cooling, being given to children suffering
from smallpox. Bruised leaves are applied
to contusions to relieve pain and diminish
swelling.
RUBIACEAE
Borreria articularis (L.f.) F. N. Will.
( Madanghanti )
(CNC: 39; WI, 1: 207)
The leaves are a famine food, and the
seeds are used as a coffee substitute. The
root decoction is employed as an alterative.
The seeds are considered a stimulant.
Dentella repens L.
( Bhuipat )
(CNC: 93; WI, 3: 35)
In Malaysia the plant is used for poulticing
sores.
Oldenlandia corymbosa L.
( Khet-papra, Dhaman-papar )
(CNC: 180; KB, 1: 665; Su: 6; W, 5: 480; WI,
5: 15)
The plant is given in cases of fever, jaun-
dice, and diseases of the liver.
O. heynei Br.
(CNC: 180)
ECONOMIC BOTANY
 The plant is a remedy for snakebite. The
leaves are used in the treatment of asthma,
fever, and rheumatism.
CAMPANULACEAE
Lobelia alsinoides Lam.
(W, 5: 87; WI, 6: 161)
In Chotanagpur (Bihar), the leaves are
used as a potherb. They are a famine food
in Maharastra.
Sphenoclea zeylanica Gaertn.
(Jhill-mirich)
(VS, 4: 27)
In Java, young plants and tips of older
plants are steamed and eaten with rice. They
impart a slightly bitter taste.
COMPOSITAE
Eclipta prostrata ( L. ) L.
Kesut, Babri )
CNC: 104; KB, 1: 686; TV: 173; W, 3: 201;
WI, 3: 127)
In some parts of India, the leaves are used
in chutneys; in Java, as vegetables. The plant
is used in tattooing the skin bluish black.
The leaf juice, boiled in coconut or sesamum
oil, is used for anointing the head to render
the hair luxuriant. The plant is a tonic and
deobstruent, being used in skin diseases as
well as in hepatic and spleen enlargement. In
combination with aromatics, the juice is given
in cases of catarrhal jaundice. The leaf juice,
mixed with honey, is a specific for catarrh in
infants. The fresh plant is rubbed on the gums
in toothache and applied with a little oil for
relieving headache and with sesamum oil in
elephantiasis. The leaf is a remedy for scor-
pion sting. The root is given to relieve urine
scalding.
Enhydra fluctuans Lour.
( Hincha, Harhuch )
(BC: 22; CNC: 107; KB, 1: 685; W, 3: 244;
WI, 3: 173)
The leaves are eaten as a vegetable or in
salads. Stated to be antibilious, demulcent,
USEFUL WEEDS OF WEST BENGAL RICE FIELDS
and laxative, they are used in skin, liver, and
nervous diseases.
Gnaphalium indicum L.
(WI, 4: 157)
In Bihar, the leaves are eaten as a potherb.
Grangea maderaspatana Poir.
( Namuti, Mastaru )
(CNC: 127; KB, 1: 675; TV: 161; WI, 4: 252)
The leaves are considered antispasmodic,
deobstruent, and stomachic. They are used
in the treatment of earache and irregular
menses as well as in antiseptic and anodyne
fomentations.
Xanthium strumarium L.
( Ban-okra )
[CBG, 1: 502; CNC: 259; KB, 1: 683; TV:
165; W, 6(iv): 318]
The plant is reportedly poisonous to cattle
and pigs in Australia and America. The
flowering tops and two leaves immediately
below, boiled in "khar water," are eaten as a
potherb by the people of Assam. The leaves
serve as the source of a yellow dye. The seeds
yield an oil for illumination purposes. The
fruit is used medicinally, being considered
demulcent, diaphoretic, sedative, sudorific,
and sialagogue. It is given in smallpox. In
South India, the prickly involucre is applied
to the ear or tied in a bunch to an ear ring
to cure hemicrania.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION
In this work, 124 species are included. The
34 other species that we found in rice fields
but whose virtues have not yet been discovered
are as follows:
Ammannia multiflora, Berg& ammanoides, Centran-
thera tranquebarica, Cyperus difformis, C. haspan,
C. niveus, C. squarrosus, C. umbellatus, Digitaria
stricta, Eleocharis caribaea, Eriocaulon odoratum,
E. sieboldianum, Evolvulus nummularius, Fimbristy-
lis barbata, F. dipsacea, F. /erruginea, Gnaphalium
pulvinatum, Hemigraphis hirta, Hygrophila difformis,
H. polysperma, Limnophila sessiliflora, Lindernia cili-
ata, Mitrasacme alsinoides, Myriophyllum indicum,
M. tuberculatum, Oldenlandia nudicaulis, Oryza sa-
tiva v a r . fatua, Rotala densiflora, R. indica, Seirpus
pauciflorus, S. supinus, Scoparia dulcis, Utricularia
flexuosa, a n d U. inflexa v a r . stellaris.
309
As they grow in rice fields and have the po-
tentiality to survive, it is imperative that all
these plants are properly analysed.
Most of the weeds have valuable medicinal
and therapeutic properties, e.g., as follows:
Achyranthes aspera, Alysicarpus vaginalis, Bacopa
monnieri, Centella asiatica, Centaurium roxburghii,
Corchorus aestuans, Cyanotis axillaris, Cynodon dac-
tylon, Cyperus rotundus, Dactyloctenium aegypti-
urn, Eclipta prostrata, Enhydra fluetuans, lmperata
cylindrica, Nymphaea stellata, Oldenlandia corym-
bosa, Pistia stratiotes var. cuneata, Polygonum hy-
dropiper, Scirpus articulatus, Sida acuta, S. rhom-
boidea, and Trianthema portulacastrum.
The following, however, are dreaded for their
poisonous principles:
Chrozophora rottleri, Cyperus kyllinga, Drosera bur-
mannii, Eleusine indica, Heliotropium ovalifolium,
Lochnera pusilla, Paspalidium flavidum, Phyllanthus
urinaria, Xanthium strumarium, etc.
A number of weeds are consumed as food
by the poorer classes of people during times
of scarcity or as a source of edible greens,
e.g., as follows:
Aeschynomene aspera, Alternanthera sessilis, Ama-
ranthus gracilis, Coix lachryma-jobi, Echinocloa
colonum, Glinus lotoides, Ipomoea aquatica, Lepto-
chloa chinensis, Polyearpon prostratum, Ottelia
alismoides, Setaria glauca, etc.
The forage and fodder value of some weeds
is of no less importance. Almost all of the
Gramineae and a few of the Amaranthaceae,
Portulacaceae, Convolvulaceae, Leguminosae,
and Umbelliferae belong to this category.
The following species of weeds are utilized
as sand binders:
Cynodon dactylon, Desmodium triflorum, Panicum
repens, and Saccharum spontaneum.
Those used as green manure and cover
crop include:
Eichhornia erassipes, Eragrostis uniloides, Pistia
stratiotes var. euneata, Sesbania cannabina, etc.
The following are regarded as suitable for
reclaiming arid tracts:
Argemone mexicana, and lmperata cylindrica.
Those which yield useful products for art
and industry are as follows:
Aeschynomene aspera, A. indica, Chrysopogon aci-
culatus, Cyperus iria, Eragrostis gangetica, Melochia
eorchorifolia, Sesbania cannabina, etc.
The foregoing gives an indication that the
rice fields of West Bengal are a good source
of potentially useful species. Most of these
plants contain valuable chemical substances
310
that may be employed in the Unani system of
treatment or may be a source of Allopathic,
Ayurvedic, or Homoeopathic medicines.
Hence, local raw-drug sellers may find rice
fields a good place to collect plants during
weeding operations by farmers. Besides, rice-
field weeds may supply emergency food for
animals and humans and may be put to a
variety of other uses.
LITERATURE CITED
1. Biswas, K. and C. C. Calder. 1936. Hand-Book
of Common Water and Marsh Plant~ of India
and Burma. Health Bull. No. 24.
2. Bor, N. L. 1960. Grasses of Burma, Ceylon.
India and Pakistan. Pergamon Press, London.
3. Chopra, R. N., R. L. Badhwar and S. Ghosh.
1949-1956. Poisonous Plants of lndia. Vols. 1-2.
Indian Council of Agricultural Research, New
Delhi.
4. Chopra, R. N., S. L. Nayar and l. C. Chopra.
1956. Glossary of Indian Medicinal Plants.
Council of Scientific & Industrial Research, New
Delhi.
5. Dastur, J. F. 1962. Useful Plants of India and
Pakistan. 6th ed. D. B. Taraporevala Sons &
Co., Bombay.
6. Gamble, J. S. 1957. Flora of the Presidency of
Madras. Vols. 1-3. Reprinted ed. Botanical Sur-
vey of India, Calcutta.
7. Kirtikar, K. R. and B. D. Basu. 1918. Indian
MedicinalPlants. Vols. 1-2. Panini Office, Bhu-
waneswari Asram, Bahaduganj, Allahabad.
8. Maheshwari, P. and Umrao Singh. 1965. Dic-
tionary of Economic Plants in India. Indian
Council of Agricultural Research, New Delhi.
9. Malti, R. K. 1968. Medicinal plants of Ayur-
vedic value in the paddy fields of Bengal. Bull.
Botan. Soc. Bengal 22: 69-77.
10. Sculthorpe, C . D . 1967. The Biology of Aquat-
ic Vascular Plants. Edward Arnold ( Publishers ),
London.
11. Sharma, A. 1971. Eradication and utilization of
water hyacinth-- a review. Curr. Sci. 40: 51-55.
12. Subramanyam, K. 1962. Aquatic Angiosperms.
Council of Scientific & Industrial Research, New
Delhi.
13. Tadulingam, C. and G. Venkatanarayana. 1932.
A Hand Book of Some South Indian Weeds.
Govt. Press, Madras.
14. Van Steenis, C. G. G . J . 1948-1958. Flora Ma-
lesiana. Vols. 4-5. N. V. N o o r d h o f f - K o l f f ,
D jakarta.
15. Watt, G. 1889-1899. A Dictionary of the Eco-
nomic Products of India. Vols. 1-6. Dept. of
Revenue & Agriculture, Govt. of India, Calcutta.
16. Wealth of India. 1948-1972. Raw Materials.
Vols. 1-9. Council of Scientific & Industrial
Research, New Delhi.
ECONOMIC BOTANY