Abstract
Sida is a large genus with about 200 species distributed throughout the world. This genus is of great
importanc in the Indian traditional system of medicine and this is perhaps the most widely used raw
drug in the production of different Ayurvedic formulations. It is known as ‘Bala’ in Sanskrit. The correct
identity of Bala remains controversial as the terminology used is quiet confusing due to the prevalence
of several synonyms for the same plant and several forms having similar names.