The Sanjeevani plant of the Ramayana.

In the trans-Himalayan region, three interconnected mountains—Kailasha, Rishabha, and Mahodhaya (also known as Oshadhi or Aushadhi) mountains—are situated. On the southern slope of Oshadhi, a dense forest thrived, housing plants renowned for their healing properties. These plants emitted a radiant and fragrant quality, enveloping the entire area with a delightful scent. There was an abundance of medicinal flora in this region.

According to the Ramayana epic, a pivotal moment unfolded during the battle between Ravana's forces and Rama's army. Lakshmana sustained severe injuries and lost consciousness. Upon the advice of Ravana's medical expert, Sushena, Hanuman swiftly journeyed to the Dronagiri hills. There, he sourced four specific plants: Mrita sanjeevani, capable of reviving the deceased; Vishalyakarani, adept at extracting projectiles and healing weapon-inflicted wounds; Suvarnakarani, which restored the original skin complexion; and Sandhani, the potent herb that could mend severed limbs and fractured bones. Due to Hanuman's inability to distinguish the exact plant, he uprooted the entire Dronagiri Mountain and transported it to Lanka.

The legendary Sanjeevani herb, mentioned in the narrative, could potentially belong to three identifiable species: Cressa cretica (also known as Rudravanti or Rudanti), Selaginella bryopteris (referred to as Bhooti Sanjeevini), and Flickingeria fimbriata (referred to as Jeevanti or Jeevaka).

There is still a mystery surrounding the famed Sanjeevani bhooti. If found with its healing properties validated, it could well be a life saver.