Abstract

THE DEBATE OVER TALISHPATRA: UNVEILING CONTROVERSIES AND MISCONCEPTIONS

Dr. Neha Thakkar* and Dr. Dharmendra Jani

ABSTRACT

Background: This study focuses on an in-depth examination of the controversial botanical sources of Talishpatra (Abies spectabilis (D. Don) Mirb.). Materials and Methods: A comprehensive review was conducted using various literary sources and digital platforms to gather data concerning the diverse botanical origins of Talishpatra. The perspectives of multiple authors regarding Talishpatra's botanical source were analysed, including their rationales. Emphasis was placed on vernacular names, habitat, geographical distribution, macroscopic characteristics, and toxicity. Observations and Results: The controversy arises due to mistranslations, vernacular names, and morphological resemblances. Specifically: Flacourtia cataphracta Roxb. appears to be a mistranslation by authors as Talishpatra. Rhododendron anthopogon, Rhododendron campanulatum, and Rhododendron lepidotum are considered controversial sources due to vernacular names. However, their morphology differs significantly from the classical description of Talishpatra leaves. Cinnamomum tamala Nees & Eberm is an established source of Tamalapatra. Abies pindrow shares morphological similarities with Abies webbiana and occupies the same geographical distribution, making it a controversial source, yet it is not Talishpatra. Taxus baccata is sold in markets as Talishpatra due to its morphological resemblance, but it is not recognized as Talishpatra by all established authoritative sources. Conclusion: Abies spectabilis (D. Don) Mirb. is identified as the most probable botanical source of Talishpatra.

Keywords: Talishpatra, Abies spectabilis (d.don) Mirb., controversy.