The demand for natural products derived from medicinal plant is increasing in national and international market. The sudden increases in demand of the pharmaceutical industries of Indian system of medicine has led to deforestation because of which some plant species have been endangered such as Kutki, Jatamansi, Ativisha, Vatshanabh etc. Vidarikand (Pueraria tuberosa DC) is one of them. “Vidarikand” is a perennial herb is in high demand. Its tubers carry many therapeutic potentials and are part of many important formulations like Chawanprash, Indrokta rasayan, Brimhani gutika, Sukumar tail, Vidaryadi ghrita etc. in Ayurveda. Its important habitats are Himalaya, Sikkim, Mount Abu, Punjab, Western Uttar Pradesh and Central India. Its increasing demand in the pharmaceutical industry and simultaneous uncontrolled exploitation of natural habitat has decreased the availability of authentic drug. This has eventually led to adulteration and substitution. It is therefore necessary to promote cultivation of Vidarikand which is largely required by the herbal drug industry. Under the scheme of National AYUSH Mission during 12th plan its cultivation is eligible for 50% subsidy. The yield of tubers is reported to be about 5 – 7.5 tons per hectare. It is utmost necessary to promote shifting of Vidarikand from forests to the cultivated source for its long term stability and prevent adulteration and substitution.
