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Sanjivani Booti of Ramayana - Research on its survival instincts


Sanjivani Booti – which Lord Hanuman brought to save the life of Lord Ram's brother Lakshman – is being researched upon by scientists for its survival instincts. Sanjeevani means ‘one that infuses life.’ The Sanjeevani plant is well known for its medicinal properties and is mentioned in Ayurveda and other ancient texts.

National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI) is trying to identify the gene that helps Sanjivani Booti to survive severe droughts. The plant existed before 300 million years and comes under a group of plants which were the first vascular plants on earth.


When there is no moisture the plant curls up and assumes the form of a brown crust. Sanjivani Booti regains its original form when it comes in contact with water or moisture. The plant is found throughout India and it grows in rocks and arid lands.

The plant, famous after its mention in the Ramayana, is credited to have the power to cure all physical ailments. In the epic, Lord Rama’s brother, Lakshman is cured using the healing powers of the plant after he was struck by the Brahmastra.

According to the Ramayana, Dronagiri range of Himalayas, located near the Chinese border, included the mountain on which the plant grew.

Please note that Selaginella bryopteris is sold in the market as sanjeevani booti.