Page 56 - Volt Elevate The World Around Us Book 4

Uses of Other Plant Parts

Let’s also learn about the uses of other plant parts.

y Plants give us grains, pulses, fruits, vegetables, nuts, oils and spices for food.
y Many plants are also used as medicines. For example, tulsi leaves help cure cough
and cold, neem leaves are used for skin problems and aloe vera is good for digestion

and hair care.
y Turmeric is both a spice and a medicine because it heals wounds and increases
immunity.

y Plants are also a natural source of dyes. For example, indigo was once used to dye
cloth blue, turmeric is used for a yellow dye and henna gives a natural red-brown
colour for hair and hands.

Rituals Related to Plants in India

Plants hold a very special place in Indian culture and religion. Many plants are considered
sacred and are worshipped in temples and homes.

y Tulsi (holy basil) is one of the most worshipped plants in Hindu homes. It is believed
to bring health, happiness and purity, and people light a lamp near it every evening.
y The peepal tree is considered holy and people tie sacred threads around it while
praying for blessings.

y The banyan tree is also respected and is worshipped during festivals like Vat Savitri.

y Banana leaves are used during pujas to serve food and as offerings.
y Mango leaves are tied at the entrance of homes during festivals and marriages to
bring good luck.

y Lotus flowers are offered to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu, while hibiscus is
offered to Goddess Kali.

Mind Refresh

Plants are made up of ____________ main systems – the root system and the shoot system.
____________ grow below the soil and can be of two types: taproots such as ____________ and
radish, and ____________ roots found in crops like rice and ____________. They hold the plant
firmly, absorb ____________ and minerals, prevent soil ___________ and in some cases store
____________. The ____________ system includes the stem, leaves, flowers, fruits and seeds.
The stem supports the plant, carries ____________ from roots, transports ____________ from
leaves, and may also store food and water in plants like ____________ and cactus. Leaves are the

____________ factories of plants as they prepare food with the help of air, ____________ and
sunlight. They also release ____________ which is essential for life.
Apply

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