Question:

The ____of Dioscorea deltoidea yield diosgenin used in synthesis of sex hormone.

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Yams are known for their underground parts. Whenever you see Dioscorea, think of Tubers. Diosgenin is the "mother" of modern birth control and hormonal therapy drugs.
  • Bark
  • Wood
  • Leaves
  • Tubers
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
This is a question about medicinal forest plants. It asks which part of the plant Dioscorea deltoidea (medicinal yam) contains the active chemical diosgenin.
Detailed Explanation:

• Dioscorea deltoidea is a climbing herb found in the North-Western Himalayas.

• It is prized for its high concentration of a steroid sapogenin called Diosgenin.

• Diosgenin is the starting material for the commercial synthesis of various steroid hormones, including cortisone, progesterone, and testosterone (sex hormones).

• The plant stores its energy and bioactive compounds in underground storage organs known as Tubers (or rhizomes).

• These tubers are harvested, dried, and processed to extract the sapogenins.

• Because of over-exploitation for the pharmaceutical industry, this species is now considered endangered in many parts of its natural range.

Step 2: Final Answer:

The tubers of Dioscorea deltoidea are the source of diosgenin.
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