[Kanika Khanna]

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Trees are a major processor of solar energy for the survival of the earth. Medicinal plants are of great value right from the Vedic period. Hindu devotees are mostly vegetarians. They believed that the nine forms of Goddess Durga appeared from the nine kinds of plants. It is collectively called “Nabapatrika”.

Fruit-bearing trees are always given importance in our Sanatan Dharma. Some of them are elaborated here:

1. Tulsi: It is a medicinal plant that has a great fragrance. Its scientific name is ‘Ocimum sanctum’ which means holy place. This plant is found in almost every household. It is an earthly form of Tulsi mata. She is considered an incarnation of the goddess Lakshmi. In Vrindavan, Tulsi is considered as the main director of performing various Ras Leelas. She is the messenger of Lord Krishna in Kunja reform and scholar in Ayurvedic scriptures. She is also known as ‘Bhakti Devi’, a giver of devotion.

2. Neem Tree: It is also known as Margosa tree. It has several medicinal properties. Neem is considered as a form of mother Durga. It is also called ‘Nimari Devi’.This tree has been in India for many centuries and worshiped by devotees.

3. Bael or Wood apple tree: It is considered a form of Lord Shiva. It is believed that Lord Shiva resides in its roots and its three leaves. Together, they are called ‘Tridev’.Bael tree is found in many parts of the world.

4. Peepal or Bodhi tree: The Peepal tree is considered to be the abode of Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. This tree has great importance and is considered Lord Shiva. Visiting this tree is considered equivalent to visiting Lord Mahesh.

5. Kadali (Banana plant): It is used in prayers in Hinduism for worshiping Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. In Durga Puja and Ganesh Puja, this plant has a special importance. The ceremony of Durga Puja starts with ‘Nabapatrika’ snan. The nine plants are :

Kadali – banana

Mankachu – colocasia

Haldi – turmeric

Bael – wood apple

Dalim – pomegranate stem

Ashoka stem

Jayanti stem

Twigs of white Aparajita plant

Dhanya – rice plant.

These Nine plants collectively signify nine special aspects of the goddess Durga.

6. SHAMI TREE: In Ramayana, Lord Rama worshipped this tree before the conquest of Lanka. In Mahabharata, the weapons of Pandavas were hidden in a Shami tree in the last year of their exile. During Durga Puja, this tree is worshipped. The wood of this tree is considered sacred for Havan.

7. Dalim or Pomegranate plant: It is believed that this tree produces positive vibrations. It is considered important among the five fruits that are offered for puja. This plant has many medicinal qualities.

8. Ashoka tree: This tree is considered sacred and beneficial for Hinduism. Planting this tree brings auspicious time. A person can be freed from all kinds of exploitation. It may act against cancer. It may be used for bacterial problems and ulcers. It can even cure depression. It may protect the heart and reduce blood sugar levels. It also helps in relieving pain. This tree also helps in bringing good luck and prosperity.

9. Narkel (coconut ) tree: This tree is considered an important part of Hindu rituals. Narkel is placed on the top of Kalash and filled with water. It is a symbol of Mangal. It is also offered to most of the Gods.

We should plant more and more trees and save environment.

 

 

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