Caralluma edulis: An Endemic, Edible, Medicinal and threatened plant species of Indian Thar Desert

Caralluma edulis is a rare and endemic plant of Thar Desert and knows for its medicinal and edible properties especially for its high anti-oxidants properties. The natural habitat of Caralluma edulis is destructed due anthropogenic activities; degradation of rangelands due to high grazing pressure and changes in land use pattern has threatened its existence since last two decades. At the same time, Plant has very slow natural propagation and grazed whole plant prior to its reproductive maturity restrict its propagation by sexual means. Plant needs to urgent attention for its protection and re-establish to its natural habitat.