Government of India encourages the cultivation of ‘sea buckthorn’. What is the importance of this plant?
- It helps in controlling soil erosion and in preventing desertification:
- It is a rich source of bio-diesel.
- It has nutritional value and is well-adapted to live in cold areas of high altitudes.
- Its timber is of great commercial value.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2012 Prelims]
(a) 1 only
(b) 2, 3 and 4 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (c)
Explanation:
- Seabuckthorn is a plant with notable medicinal properties and the ability to boost immunity.
- It is commonly found in cold desert and dry temperate regions across India, including Himachal Pradesh, Ladhak, Uttrakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh.
- In addition to its medicinal properties, Seabuckthorn can also aid in preventing soil erosion and nitrogen fixation in colder and desert regions.
- The fruit and leaves of Seabuckthorn contain a wide range of vitamins and antioxidants, including vitamin C, A, E, K, carotenoids, polyphenols, and sterols.
- Due to its numerous uses in medicine and herbal industries, Seabuckthorn timber is highly valuable commercially.
