Alpinia zerumbet is an important medicinal, aromatic, and ornamental plant belonging to the family Zingiberaceae. The crop possesses significant economic and therapeutic value due to the presence of essential oils and bioactive compounds such as 1,8-cineole, terpinen-4-ol, and methyl cinnamate. The cool climate, humid conditions, fertile soils, and partial shade environment of the Yercaud hills provide highly favourable conditions for its cultivation. The plant can be propagated through rhizomes and cultivated with comparatively low maintenance under hill agroforestry systems. Apart from its medicinal uses in traditional healthcare for antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antihypertensive, and relaxing properties, the crop also has commercial importance in perfumery, cosmetics, herbal teas, aromatherapy, and nutraceutical industries. Its adaptability to mixed cropping systems, soil conservation ability, and climate resilience make it suitable for sustainable hill agriculture. The cultivation and value addition of Alpinia zerumbet can provide additional income opportunities, support rural entrepreneurship, and promote eco-friendly agricultural development in the Yercaud region.
Alpinia zerumbet, Promising Ornamental, Aromatic crop, Medicinal Tree Crop, Yercaud Hills
