An account of the Gymnospermic flora of Himachal Pradesh and different uses in daily life of peoples

Abstract

Himachal Pradesh, the mountainous state of Indian Himalayan region is famous for its religious culture, traditions and its unique flora and fauna. Gymnosperms have different uses like lumber, paper production, resin, soap, varnish, nail polish, food, fuel, religious, gum, essence and perfumes. In this, 20 species, 13 genera and 6 families have been described with their different uses. Due to overexploitation, habitat destruction, urbanization and climatic changes, gymnosperms are decreasing day by day. The present study helps to understand the utilization of gymnosperms by different ways and there is urgent need to aware the peoples to protect the plants for future.