In early times, which types of plants were classified ?

Options

A. (a) medicinal
B. (b) economical
C. (c) aesthetic value
D. (d) ecological value

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Plant Classification**:
- In early times, plants were classified based on their physical characteristics and their uses. The classification was primarily focused on practical applications.

2. **The Role of Theoprastus**:
- The first significant classification of plants was done by Theoprastus, a Greek philosopher known as the "Father of Botany." He laid the groundwork for plant classification.

3. **Basis of Classification**:
- Theoprastus classified plants based on their morphology (structure and form) and their practical uses.

4. **Medicinal Use of Plants**:
- During early times, one of the primary practical uses of plants was for medicinal purposes. Many plants contain phytochemicals that have therapeutic properties, making them valuable in medicine.

5. **Historical Context**:
- Traditional medicinal systems, such as Ayurveda, emphasize the use of these phytochemicals to treat various diseases, both internal and external.

6. **Global Classification of Medicinal Plants**:
- According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), there are approximately 15,000 medicinal plants classified worldwide, highlighting the importance of this category.

7. **Evaluating the Options**:
- Given the options provided:
- A) Medicinal - This is correct as it aligns with the historical classification based on practical use.
- B) Economical - Incorrect, as this was not the primary focus in early classification.
- C) Aesthetic - Incorrect, as aesthetic value was not a primary reason for classification.
- D) Ecological - Incorrect, as ecological aspects were not the main criteria for early classification.

8. **Final Answer**:
- Therefore, the correct answer is **A) Medicinal**.