Borthekera

Context: In recent studies, the medicinal plant commonly called Borthekera in Assamese was found to have cardioprotective potential.

About  Borthekera:

• Garcinia pedunculata, commonly called ‘Borthekera’ is  a medicinal plant found in  Assam.
• The tree is endemic to the south-eastern regions of Asia such as parts of Myanmar and north-eastern parts of India.
• It is traditionally forbidden for raw consumption.
• It has been found to protect from heart diseases.

Uses of Borthekera :

• The administration of the dried pulp of its ripe fruit reduces cardiac hypertrophy indicators, oxidative stress, and heart inflammation.
• The sun-dried slices of the ripe fruit are used for culinary and medicinal purposes and are known to have therapeutic properties like anti-inflammatory, anthelmintic, antibacterial, antifungal, antidiabetic, hypolipidemic, nephroprotective, and even neuroprotective activity.
• Borthekera is a rich source of antioxidants.
• In Assam, such slices are used for preparing delicacies like “tenga diya masor jol” meaning Assamese sour fish curry.

Source: PIB

Previous Year Questions

Q.1) Which of the following are nitrogen-fixing plants? (2022)

1. Alfalfa
2. Amaranth
3. Chickpea
4. Clover
5. Purslane (Kulfa)
6. Spinach

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

1. 1, 3, and 4 only
2. 1, 3, 5, and 6 only
3. 2, 4, 5, and 6 only
4. 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6

Q.2) In nature, which of the following is/are most likely to be found surviving on a surface without soil? (2021)

1. Fern
2. Lichen
3. Moss
4. Mushroom

Select the correct answer using the code given below

1. 1 and 4 only
2. 2 only
3. 2 and 3
4. 1, 3 and 4

Q3. Why is there a concern about copper smelting plants? (2021)

1. They may release lethal quantities of carbon monoxide into the environment
2. The copper slag can cause the leaching of some heavy metals into the environment
3. They may release Sulphur dioxide as a pollutant

Select the correct answer using the code given below

1. 1 and 2 only
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. 1, 2 and 3