Why in the News?

In a remarkable botanical discovery, a team of researchers from the Department of Life Sciences at Manipur University and Kwaklei and Khonggunmelei Orchids Pvt. Ltd. has unveiled a hitherto unknown plant species named "Curcuma kakchingense."

About Curcuma Kakchingense:

• Recently identified flowering plant species in Manipur, belong to the Zingiberaceae family.
• Member of the angiospermic family Zingiberaceae, which includes well-known plants like turmeric, gingers, and cardamom.
• Plant Characteristics: Robust plant reaching a height of eight feet, characterized by large terminal inflorescence.
• Natural Habitat: Thrives along the banks of the Sekmai River in the Kakching District of Manipur.
• Resemblance to Other Species: Bears a striking resemblance to local "Yaingung" (Curcuma longa) and Curcuma phrayawan from Thailand.
• Distinguished by lemon-yellow rhizomes with a notably bitter taste.
• IUCN Red List Classification: Classified as "Data Deficient" (DD) under the IUCN Red List category.

Importance of Curcuma Plants:

• Culinary and Traditional Uses: Various Curcuma species, including turmeric (Curcuma longa), play a vital role in cuisines, traditional medicines, spices, and dyes.
• Biological Activities: Curcumin and curcuminoids found in Curcuma species are nontoxic polyphenolic compounds with diverse biological activities.
• Pharmacological Properties: Essential oil of Curcuma species possesses pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory, anti-cancerous, anti-diabetic, and anti-microbial effects.
• Versatile Applications: Widely utilized in cosmetics, perfumes, and as ornamental plants, contributing to various industries and daily life.