हिन्दू संस्कृति में पेड़-पौधों का धार्मिक, आध्यात्मिक एवं वैज्ञानिक महत्व
The life of entire universe is governed by the five great elements (Panch Mahabhutas) which includes Earth, Water, Fire, Sky and Air which are existed in nature. All living things are composed from these five great elements. This fact is mentioned in various Hindu Holy Scriptures such as Vedas, Puranas, Ramayana, Mahabharat, Manusmrirti, Shrimad Bhagvat Gita etc. All living and non living things are existed in nature are entirely interconnected or interdependent to each other. Presence of sufficient living and non living things make sound and sustainable ecosystem. Therefore our ancient sages and hermits linked natures components such as plants, animals, rivers, mountains, forests etc to the worship in Hindu religion for sustainable utilization and conservation for generation to generation. The forests are regarded as 'Lungs of Earth' and 'Living Oxygen Cylinders' and provide fresh air, water, clean and green environment, maintain food chain and food web etc and also full fill all basic requirements such as food, medicine and shelter. But now due to the various anthropogenic factors, the forests are depleting fast from the nature, while importance of plants/forests has been described by ancient sages and hermits in various Holy Scriptures of Hindu religion. Importance of plants has been proved by modern research. In the present communication, the details are given.