Nagaland University, Assam Down Town University Conduct First Scientific Study on Endangered Medicinal Plant

Lumani: The first-ever thorough scientific study on Goniothalamus simonsii Hook. f. Thoms., an endangered and endemic medicinal plant indigenous to Meghalaya’s forests, has been carried out by researchers from Nagaland University and Assam Down Town University.

The plant has long been used by the local population to treat conditions like typhoid, malaria, throat irritation and gastrointestinal issues, but its pharmacological potential has never been investigated scientifically. G. simonsii is a rich source of bioactive phytochemicals with strong antioxidant, antimicrobial and anticancer properties, according to the new research, which also validates these traditional uses. The researchers used sophisticated analytical and computational tools to show how the plant’s compounds interact with proteins linked to cancer, offering fresh ideas for creating therapeutic medications based on nature.

The study, led by Dr Mayur Mausoom Phukan, faculty at Nagaland University, along with his student Samson Rosly Sangma, was published in Chemistry and Biodiversity (October 2025 issue). The research team also included Dr Dhrubajyoti Gogoi of Assam Down Town University, Dr Pranay Punj Pankaj and Vahshi Chongloi from Nagaland University.

Speaking about the achievement, Prof Jagadish K Patnaik, Vice Chancellor of Nagaland University, said: “Nagaland University, in collaboration with Assam Down Town University, have undertaken the first comprehensive scientific study on Goniothalamus simonsii Hook. f. Thoms., an endangered and endemic medicinal plant native to the forests of Meghalaya. Through this study, our researchers are not only contributing to the conservation and understanding of a rare plant species but are also helping to bridge the gap between traditional knowledge and modern science.”

He further added, “I commend the research team for their dedication and innovative approach, and I am confident that this work will open new pathways for sustainable utilisation of our rich biodiversity. Nagaland University remains committed to promoting excellence in research and fostering collaborations that contribute to the scientific, cultural, and ecological advancement of the region.”