Date of Visit: July 5, 2025
Location: Medicinal Plant Garden for Research and Extension, Pallekele, Kundasale, Kandy District, Central Province
Time Duration: 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Participants: Second BSMS students(39th BSMS)
Organized by: Faculty of Siddha Medicine, Department of Materia Medica
Guided by: Dr. (Mrs.) V. Sathiyaseelan, Dr. (Mrs.) V. Milano Prasad.
Demonstrators: Mr. J. Eugin Benat, Ms. A. Mayoori
1. Introduction
As part of the curriculum for 2nd year BSMS students under the subject Mooligaiyiyal-II, this field visit was organized. It was arranged with the aim of identifying medicinal plants, gaining comprehensive knowledge about them, and enhancing practical exposure to research. The session was conducted during the academic field hours of the 2nd year BSMS students, guided by the academic staff and temporary demonstrators of the Department of Gunapadam.
2. Objective
The objective of this visit was to identify and document the medicinal plants growing in a specific area, along with their therapeutic uses, life cycle, toxic properties, and the medically useful parts.
3. Land Type and Climatic Season
The Medicinal Plant Garden at Pallekele spans approximately 3 acres. It is situated in the Central Province, characterized by a fertile and humid environment favorable for the cultivation of a wide variety of medicinal plants. During the time of visit, the region was experiencing the Southwest Monsoon season, contributing to moderate rainfall and high humidity—conditions ideal for herbal growth and conservation.
4. Main Observations
During the walk, we observed and documented nearly 100 varieties of medicinal herbal plants. We identified their botanical names and plant families, noted the parts of the plants used in medicine, and studied the ecological and medicinal significance of various species used in the Siddha healthcare system. We also noted botanical features (such as leaf shape, flowers, and bark), and their habitats. Notable examples of rare and significant species identified during the visit include:
- 1. Adividam
- 2. Maramanjal (Tree turmeric)
- 3. Kokain (Cocaine plant)
- 4. Eli Amanakku
- 5. Venkodiveli
- 6. Sengodiveli
- 7. Perungumizh
- 8. Andhu
- 9. Kacholam
- 10. Sirukurincha
- 11. Vishamullikizhangu
- 12. Mudkala
- 13. Pranajeeva
- 14. Bakhmi
- 15. Ashoka
- 16. Agmedia
- 17. Alubo
- 18. Anichai
- 19. Karunochchi
- 20. Inno
In addition to these, various other species were studied. Their botanical names and plant families were identified, and detailed information was provided by an on-site guide regarding their characteristics, uses, and cultivation practices.
5. Conclusion
The visit to the Pallekele Medicinal Plant Garden provided an enriched understanding of medicinal plant identification and documentation. The field experience deepened our knowledge of plant diversity and enhanced experiential learning in medicinal botany, contributing significantly to our academic and practical skills.
