Tripura - Ceylon Ironwood, Indian Rose Chestnut

Botanical Name: Flower of Mesua ferrea

Local Name: Nagesar in Bengali, Naga Kesar in Hindi

'Flowers of Mesua ferrea, Kaziranga Tiger Reserve, Assam, India',

by A. J. T. Johnsingh, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

Uses

The oily seeds are edible when well cooked, and both the seeds and the flowers are used locally in traditional medicine.

The stamens, the male reproductive part a flower are used to treat stomach disorders, asthma, cough, fever, dysentery, bleeding piles and leprosy. Cobra’s Saffron or Naga Kesar produced from the stamens is a very popular drug in our traditional medicinal system. The volatile oil from the flowers has antibacterial properties and it is useful in curing indigestion and cough.

Bibliography

https://www.britannica.com/plant/Ceylon-ironwood

https://www.newindianexpress.com/lifestyle/health/2018/apr/18/aphrodisiac-stamens-that-help-treat-leprosy-1802856.html

http://bsienvis.nic.in/State_flower/Tripura%20State%20Flower%20-%20Final%20-%2010.12.2013.pdf

Uttarakhand - King of the Himalayan Flower

Botanical Name: Saussurea Obvallata

Local Name: Known as Brahma Kamal in Hindi

'Bramha Kamal', by Rajesh Dangi, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

Reason for being the state flower

King of the Himalayan Flower is native to the Himalayas, Uttarakhand and some parts of China and Burma. It is grown exclusively in the state of Uttarakhand and found along the higher portions of the Himalayan range in the state. It is extensively used by the local population.

Symbolic Meaning, Religious Significance and Local Beliefs

It is a sign of luck and prosperity. It is known as Brahma Kamal named after God Brahma; the deity who is believed to have created the universe in Hinduism. It is considered that if you pray when the flower is blooming your wishes get fulfilled. It is a local belief in Uttarakhand that the flower protects one from evil eyes and that it should always be gifted rather than being bought or sold. It is also believed that Brahma Kamal is adored by deities hence it is a part of religious offerings. The flower is mentioned in Hindu scriptures and is part of religious offerings at holy shrines, including Kedarnath, Badrinath and Tunganath.

Uses

The flower is highly valued in Tibetan medicine and Ayurveda for its healing properties. The leaves, flowers and rhizomes are used for treatment of cold, cough, bone ache, intestinal ailments and urinary tract problems. The rhizomes in particular has antiseptic properties and is used for healing cuts and bruises.

Bibliography

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/259308185_Brahma_Kamal_-_the_spiritually_revered_scientifically_ignored_medicinal_plant

https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/watch-rare-brahma-kamal-flower-bloom-in-uttarakhands-snow-clad-chamoli-2308096

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/travel/destinations/you-are-a-lucky-tourist-if-you-see-brahma-kamal-flower-blooming-inuttarakhand/

as77296265.cms#:~:text=Brahma%20Kamal%20has%20been%20named,the%20state%20flower%20of%20Uttarakhand.&text=Brah

ma%20Kamal%20is%20offered%20in,like%20Kedarnath%2C%20Badrinath%20and%20Tunganath.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saussurea_obvallata

West Bengal - Night Jasmine

Botanical Name: Nyctanthes arbor-tristis

Local Name: Known as Shiuli/Shefalika in Bengali

'Parijaat Flower', by Navendulad, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

Reason for being the state flower and Cultural Significance

The night blooming Jasmine is unique in its property. The flowers close during the day and only bloom during the nights. The Shiuli has cultural importance and is associated with Durga Puja in West Bengal. It blooms expansively during the autumn season when its time for Durga Puja. For the people of Bengal the fragrance of Shiuli flowers is an indicator of festive period.

Symbolic Meaning and Religious Significance

It symbolises love, purity, feminine powers, sensuality, modesty, hospitality, community, inspiration, and spiritual ascension.

Night Jasmine is also known as Parijat. Parijat is particularly mentioned in Hindu mythology as one of the trees that emerged as an outcome of Samudhra Manthan.

Uses

Night Jasmine oil is used in aromatherapy to relieve stress and anxiety. It helps by increasing the serotonin levels in the brain and regulating mood. Its leaves are boiled in water and consumed once a day to reduce any kind of pain and swelling in the body.

Bibliography

https://www.pressreader.com/india/hindustan-times-gurugram-city/20181013/282157882210578

https://m.timesofindia.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/amazing-health-benefits-of-night-jasmine-raat-ki-rani/amp_articleshow/87467929.cms

https://dengarden.com/gardening/Night-Blooming-Jasmine-Cestrum-Nocturnum

https://www.cityflowers.co.in/blogs/news/west-bengal-state-flower-night-flowering-jasmine