There are two varieties of Musli which are used for medicinal purpose, Safed Musli and Kali Musli. Both are Rasayan drug of Ayurveda and used to cure weakness, fatigue and as a tonic.

Safed musli is white in colour and is obtained from various plant species including Chlorophytum borivilianum.

Kali or Krishna musli (Talamuli) is brownish-brown roots of a stemless perennial herb Curculigo orchioides.

Like Shvet Musli, Kali musli is also used to increases potency and to treat seminal weakness, STDs such as syphilis, gonorrhea and menstrualderangements. It is mainly used for diseases of the urogenital system in both males and females.

Kali musli is tonic for health and cures general weakness. It is also prescribed in treatment of piles, jaundice, asthma, diarrhea and gonorrhea. It is present in several herbal formulations for gynecological problems and sexual weakness of males. Kali musli is bitter, appetizer, nervine, adaptogenic, sedative, anticonvulsive, androgenic and anti-inflammatory drug.

General Information

Kali Musli is tuberous and wrinkled root of plant Curculigo orchioides. This plant is small herb up to 30 cm high.

Roots of plant are tuberous about 4 inches long with bitter and mucilaginous taste. Rootstock is straight, cylindrical, tuberous, 5-22 cm long, 0.5-0.8 cm thick, brownish surfaces marked with closely spaced prominent transverse wrinkles in the upper or basal half. It bears a few stout lateral roots of 5 or more cm long. Lateral roots are dull white in colour and spongy externally. The fresh cut surfaces of the rootstock has a starch white colour and mucilaginous. A few fibrous roots also occur.

Leaves are sessile or short petiolate with sheathing bases, 15-45x1.2-2.5 cm size, linear or linear lanceolate, membranous, glabrouus or sparsely softly hairy and plicate in bud. The leaf tips when contacts the soil, develops roots and produce adventitious buds.

Inflorescence is axillary, scapose racemose, the scape very short and hidden among the bases of leaves underground, clavte, flattened with the pedicels, bracts and the ovary concealed in the leaf sheaths.

The lower big flowers on the scape are mostly bisexual and the upper small ones staminate. Flowers are epigynous bright yellow, bisexual or unisexual with lanceolate, membranous bract. Perianth gamophyllous, rotate and six lobed, locate at the top of a slender sterile long extension of the ovary by means of which the perianth is exposed above the ground. Perianth lobes similar, elliptic oblong 1.2-1.6 cm long, 0.2-0.3 cm broad, outer lobes hairy on the back, inner ones sparsely hairy along nerves.

Stamens are 6 in number, filamentous filiform, short 2mm long, adnate to the base of the perianthlobes, Anthers linear or linear lanceolate, basifixed and sagittate. Ovary inferior, hidden among the leaves usually below the ground, tricarpellary syncarpous, lanceolate and trilocular with a fairly long slender beak or extension -the stipe.

Ovules many in each cell attached by a distinct long funicle. Style short columnar, 2mm with a 3 lobed stigma. Lobes are elongate, erect and appressed.

Fruit is a capsule about 1.5-2cm long, 8mm broad, oblong, glabrescent with a slender beak and spongy septa.

Seeds 1 to many, oblong, black, shiny with crustaceous testa grooved deeply in wavy lines.

Floweringandfruiting occur mostly from October to January, rarely throughout the year.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Siyah / Kali / Black Moosli is Curculigo orchioides. It belongs to plant genus Curculigo and family Amaryllidaceae / Hypoxidaceae.

Below is given detailed taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom - Plantae
• Subkingdom - Tracheobionta
• Superdivision - Spermatophyta
• Division - Magnoliophyta
• Class - Monocotyledon
• Subclass - Liliidae
• Order - Liliales
• Family - Amaryllidacae
• Genus - Curculigo
• Species - orchiodes
• Scientific Name: Curculigo orchioides Gaertn. – Golden eye-grass
• Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Roots / Rhizomes
• Planttype: Herb
• Distribution: Assam, Bengal, Kumaon eastwards, ascending up to 1830 m in Khasi hills, Manipur and the Eastern Ghats, also in Konkan southwards. Also in Sri Lanka, Japan, Malaysia and Australia.
• Habitat: Grows in moist and humus rich soil of shady forests of Asia
• Origin: Forests of India
• Status: endangered

Usedtotreat: Weakness, Impotence, Nervous diseases

Unaniproperties: Hot 2 degree, Dry 2 degree, Tonic, Aphrodisiac

Vernacular names /Synonyms

1. Latin Name: Curculigo Orchioides
2. Sanskrit: Talamuli, Bhumitila, Krishna Mushali, Taalpatri
3. Hindi: Kali Mooslie, Kali Musli, Syahmusali, Muslikand
4. Assamese: Talmuli, Tailmuli
5. Bengali: Talmalu, Tallur, Talamuli
6. English: Brahmin Ginseng, Golden Eye-Grass, Black Musli, Black Musale, Black Musalie
7. Kannada: Neltal, Neltathigodde, Nelatale, Nelatelegadde
8. Malayalam: Nilappenea, Nilappanai, Nelpana, Nilappana, Nilapanai Kilangu
9. Marathi: Kali Musali, Bhuimaddi
10. Oriya: Talamuli
11. Punjabi: Syah Musali, Musali Safed,
12. Tamil: Nilappanai, Nilappanaikkilhang
13. Telugu: Nel Tadigadda, Nallatadigudda, Nelatadi, Nelatatigaddalu, Nilaptaligaddal
14. Urdu: Musali Siyah, Kali Musali
15. Unani: Moosli Siyah, Musali Siyah

Constituents of Curculigo orchioides

• Mucilage 8%-9% (Glucose, mannose, xylose and glucuronic acid, glycoside)
• Saponins (curculigenin A, B and C; curculigosaponins A-F, curculigosaponins G, H, I and J, Yuccagenin)
• Glycosides (Phenol and Flavonoids)
• Aliphatic compounds
• Fatty acids (palmitic, oleic, linolenic linoleic, arachidic and behenic acid)
• Alkaloid (Lycorine)
• Steroids (Hentriacontanol, sitosterol, stigmasterol, cycloartenol, bita sitosterol)
• Elements (Potassium, copper, calcium, Zinc)
• Esters and others (tannin, starch, resin and hemicellulose etc.)

Ayurvedic Properties and Action

Kali musli is heating, aphrodisiac, appetizer, useful in the treatment of piles, fatigue, blood related disorders. It strengthens semen, muscles and bones. It cures vitiation of Vata and Pitta Dosha.

It improves complexion and treats skin diseases. Kali musli is prescribed in impotence, seminal weakness and loss of libido. It is used in Ayurvedic formulation which improves fertility of males.

It is Madhur or Sweet Vipak which means it digests into sweet. Sweet is heavy, nourishing and moistening to the tissues. It slows tissue metabolism and build Dhatus.

• Rasa (taste on tongue): Madhura (Sweet), Tikta (Bitter)
• Guna (Pharmacological Action): Guru (Heavy), Picchila (Slimy)
• Virya (Action): Ushna (Heating)
• Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Madhura (Sweet)

Action

• Shramahara- take away of fatigue or shrama
• Pittahara – anti-bilious
• Vrishya - aphrodisiac
• Rasayana - tonic
• Pushtiprada - nourishes body
• Balaprada - gives strength
• Shukral - increase the quantity and improve the quality of the Shukra dhatu (included the male semen and the female egg, as both are essence of all of the other dhatus (tissues) of the body)
• Mutral - diuretic

Few Ayurvedic Formulations

1. Dhatupaushtik Churna
2. Organic India Oh-Boy! Formula

Important Medicinal Properties

Kali musli is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

• Aphrodisiac: Stimulates sexual desire.
• Alterative: Alter favorably the course of an ailment.
• Appetizer:Improves appetite.
• Antipyretic/antifebrile/febrifuge: Effective against fever.
• Anticonvulsant / antiepileptic: Preventing or arresting seizures
• Androgenic: Stimulates activity of the accessory male sex organs, encourages development of male sex characteristics.
• Anticancer: Used against or tending to arrest or prevent cancer.
• Antineoplastic: Acting to prevent, inhibit or halt the development of a neoplasm (a tumor).
• Anti-inflammatory: Reducing inflammation by acting on body mechanisms.
• Demulcent: Relieving inflammation or irritation.
• Diuretic: Promoting excretion of urine/agent that increases the amount of urine excreted.
• Fattening: liable to make a person overweight.
• Hypoglycemic: Reducing level of the sugar glucose in the blood.
• Sedative: Promoting calm or inducing sleep
• Nervine: Used to calm the nerves.
• Tonic: Restore or improve health or well-being.
• Uterine stimulant: Uterotonics, medications given to cause a uterus to contract, or to increase the frequency and intensity of the contractions.

Main indications of Kali Musli

Kali / Siyah musli is mainly indicated in following conditions:

1. Impotence
2. Erectile dysfunction
3. Urinary problems (polyurea, dysuria)
4. Gonorrhea, syphilis
5. Menorrhagia, leucorrhoea
6. Geriatric tonic

Health Benefits of Kali Musli / Black Musli

1. It is rejuvenating and aphrodisiac herb.
2. It is a Rasayana or tonic to all functions of the body.
3. It is antioxidant and adaptogenic.
4. It reduces stress.
5. It increases weight.
6. It is a sexual tonic.
7. It promotes sperm count.
8. It increases testosterone level.
9. It stimulates male sex hormones.
10. It gives strength to muscles and bones.
11. It increases libido and physical strength in men.
12. It reduces blood pressure.
13. It stimulates production of breast milk.
14. It is diuretic and promotes urine secretion.
15. It protects liver.

Medicinal Uses of Black Musli / Kali Musli

Kali musli is used in Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani for treatment of variety of diseases. It is indicated in bronchitis, difficult breathing, ophthalmia, piles, vitiation of Vata Dosha, biliousness, indigestion, fatigue, diseases of blood, vomiting, diarrhea, lumbago, gonorrhea, pain in joints and general weakness.

As a restorative tonic, to cure weakness, sexual debility

1. The juice of fresh roots are taken in dose of 1-2 teaspoonful for treating weakness and as general tonic.
2. Intake of this powder in dose of 5 grams with milk, for one month cures weakness.

Aphrodisiac, Premature ejaculation, better performance, impotence

Prepare a powder by mixing, Ashwagandha + Shatavari + Kali musli, in equal amount. Take this powder in dose of 5-10 gm with cow milk twice in a day for one month.

Low sperm count, impotence, general body weakness, loss of stamina and vigor

Take root powder in dose of 5-10 grams.

To gain weight

Take root powder in dose of 5-10 grams with milk.

Hyperpigmentation

Kali musli paste with goat's milk is applied.

For itches and skin diseases

The poultice of root is used.

Bleeding, wounds, acne, pimples

The powder of roots is applied.

Skin Allergy

The paste of leaves is applied externally.

Swelling of glands

The paste of roots is applied externally.

Piles

Application of root paste on pile mass gives relief in pain and burning sensation.

Cough, cold and asthma

The smoke produced from the roots is inhaled.

Dosage of Curculigo orchioides

• Adult usage levels: 5-10 gram
• 5-16 years: ½ adult usage levels
• 1-5 years: ¼ adult usage levels

Side-effects

• It promotes weight gain.
• It has Oxytocic effects (induces labor by stimulating contractions of the muscles of the uterus).
• In the recommended dose, no adverse reactions have been reported.

The Latin name of Tumbru or Toothache tree is Zanthoxylum alatum. As the common name of the tree suggests it is used traditionally to get relief from toothache. It has numbing effect on teeth and gums. In Ayurveda, it is used for skin diseases, loss of smell, heaviness and pain in head, chronic coryza and arthritis.

In Unani the fruits, seeds and bark are used as a carminative, stomachic and anthelmintic.

Von Kenraiz - Eigenes Werk, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=18494072

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General Information

Tumburu is a medicinal plant native to NorthAmerica. It is a smallthornytree or shrub, up to 6 m high, with dense foliage and mainly found in the valleys of the Himalayas at an altitude of 1000 to 2100 m, in Khasi hills at 600 to 1800 m, and in the Ghats in peninsular India. Its branches have nearly straight prickles up to 1.2 cm long.

Leaves are distinctively trifoliate with the leaf-stalk winged. Leaflets are stalk less, 2.0-7.5 × 1.0-1.7 cm, ellipticto ovate-lace like, entire to slightly toothed, sharp tipped, base sometimes oblique.

Minute yellow flowers arise in leaf axils. Flowers have 6-8 acute sepals. Petals are absent. Male flowers have 6-8 stamens and large anthers because of which the flowers look yellow. Female flowers have 1-3 celled ovary, 3 mm in diameter, pale red, splitting into two when ripe.

The fruits of tree are reddish-brown, sub-globose and contains a single seed in follicle. Seeds are globose, glabrou and shiny black. They are about upto 0.5 cm long, and about 0.3 cm wide. The aromatic seeds tastepungent.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Tumburu / Toothache Tree is Zanthoxylum alatum. It belongs to plant family Rutaceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
• Subclass: Rosidae
• Order: Sapindales
• Family: Rutaceae – Rue family
• Genus: Zanthoxylum L. – pricklyash
• Species: Zanthoxylum alatum

Synonyms

1. Zanthoxylum armatum DC.
2. Zanthoxylum planispinum Siebold & Zucc

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: fruit, bark and stem

Plant type: Shrub, aromatic, prickly, dioecious

Distribution: North East India, Kashmir to Bhutan. Also found in most of China, Taiwan, Nepal,

Philippines, Malaysia, Pakistan and Japan at altitudes of 1,300-1,500 m.

Native to: North America

Floweringperiod: from March to April

Otheruses: Seeds used as spice

Common names /Synonyms

1. Latin name: Zanthoxylum alatum
2. Sanskrit: Tumburu, Tejovati (Bark), Tejovali, Tejohva, Tejbatee
3. Assamese: Tejovati
4. Bengali: Tejovati, Nepali Dhania, Gaira
5. English: Tooth ache tree, Nepal Pepper
6. Gujrati: Tejbal
7. Garhwal: Tezbal, Tezmal;
8. Hindi: Tejbal, Nepali Dhaniya, Timura, Darmar
9. Kannada: Tejapatri, Tumburu, Tejovanti
10. Malayalam: Thumboonal, Thumbooni
11. Marathi: Tejbal, Tejobalee
12. Oriya: Tejbal
13. Punjabi: Tirmira, Tundopoda
14. Tamil: Thejyovathi
15. Telugu: Tumburl
16. Urdu: Kabab-e-Khanda (Miswak)
17. Unani: Faaghir, Kabaab-e-Khandaan
18. Siddha: Tejyovathi
19. Arabic: Fagrieh
20. Nepal: Prumo, Prumu, Tebun, Tejbal, Tejphal, Timur, Yerma
21. Philippines: Chi-it, Sibit-paklauit
22. Thailand: Mak kak

Constituents of Zanthoxylum alatum

The root contains magnoflorine, xanthoplanine, skimmianine, dictamine and gamma-fagarine.

Seeds contain flavonoids tambulin and tambulol.

The essential oil from dried fruits contains linalool (64%), linalyl acetate, citral, geraniol methyl cinnamate, limonene and sabinene.

Dried bark and branches contain lignans—sesamin, fargesin, eudesmin, a lactone pulviatide, dictamine, 8-hydroxydictamine and gamma-fagarine, magnoflorine and xanthoplanine.

Leaves contain rnethyl-n-nonylketone, linalyl acetate, sesquiterpenehydrocarbons and tricosane.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action

Tumbru (Nepali Dhaniya) seeds are bitter and pungent in taste (Ras) and dry, sharp and light in action (Guna). Its taste after digestion (Vipak) is Katu or Pungent. It aggravates pitta and alleviates aggravated Vata / Vayu and Kapha.

It cures krimi (parasitic infection), low appetite and durgandhya (foul smell coming out of the body). It mainly acts on excretory, circulatory, digestive and respiratory system.

Rasa (taste on tongue): Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter)

Guna (Pharmacological Action): Laghu (Light), Tikshna (Sharp), Ruksha (Dry)

Virya (Action): Ushna (Heating)

Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Katu (Pungent)

Action

Dipan (promote appetite but do not aid in digesting undigested food)

Krimighna (destroys worms)

Kapha-Vatahar (Remover of the Humor of Kapha-Vata)

Pachan (assist in digesting undigested food, but do not increase the appetite)

Ruchikarak (improve taste)

Important Ayurvedic Formulations

1. Hingvadi Taila
2. Madusnhi rasayan
3. Dantmanjan

Important Medicinal Properties

Tumburu is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

1. Astringent, Antibacterial and Antiseptic
2. Antiplaque: Acting to prevent or remove plaque
3. Carminative: Preventing the formation or causing the expulsion of flatulence.
4. Diaphoretic: promote sweating.
5. Hypoglycemic: Reducing level of the sugar glucose in the blood.
6. Stomachic: stimulates gastric activity.
7. Tonic: Restore or improve health or well-being.
8. Vermifuge: destroys or expels parasitic worms (anthelmintic)

Medicinal uses of Tumburu / Toothache tree

Tumburu is a medicinal tree. Its leaves, roots, and seeds are used for medicinal purpose. In Ayurveda, the seeds are used in treatment of digestive impairment, piles, heart diseases, hiccups, cough, throat disorders, asthma, and dental diseases.

Stem bark is used in cough, asthma, difficult breathing, and rheumatism.

1. Asthma, difficult breathing

Chewing few seeds of tree are useful.

2. Arthritis, joint swelling, pain in joints

Prepare a decoction, by boiling 5 grams of fresh leaves or 10 grams of dried leaves in one glass water till water reduces to one fourth. Filter this and drink once-twice a day.

3. Boils

The fine faste of roots is applied externally.

4. Cough

Prepare decoction of seeds and drink once-twice a day.

5. Cholera (Vishuchika in Ayurveda)

The decoction of bark is used traditionally to treat cholera.

6. Ear ache

Tumburu + Sonth + Hing are cooked in mustard oil to prepare medicated oil. This is used an ear drop.

7. Gum bleeding

Bark powder mixed with honey, massaged on gums give relief in gum bleeding.

8. Mouth-freshener

The fruits of plant are chewed.

9. Skin diseases, Eczema, vitiation of blood

Prepare a decoction, by boiling 5 grams of fresh leaves or 10 grams of dried leaves in one glass water till water reduces to one fourth. Filter this and drink once-twice a day.

10. Swelling

The poultice of warm leaves is applied topically.

11. Stomatitis

Prepare decoction and use as gargle.

12. Roundworms

The decoction of seeds or intake of seeds in any form helps to expel roundworms.

13. Toothache

Crush the seeds and put under aching tree.

The bark of tree is chewed to get relief from tooth ache.

14. Tooth powder

Mix powder of (in equal amount) Tumbru seeds + Amal + Haritaki + Vibhitaki + Haldi + Sendha Namak to make a Tooth powder.

15. Teeth cleaning

Use twig of tree as Datun.

16. Ulcers, drying up and healing old wounds

The powdered bark is applied topically.

Dosage of Zanthoxylum alatum

• The seeds can be consumed in dose of 2-4 grams.
• 5-16 years: ½ adult usage levels
• 1-5 years: ¼ adult usage levels
• Stem bark 10-20 grams for preparation of decoction.

Caution, Side effects, Warning

• It is hot in potency.
• Hot potency medicines should not be used in pregnancy.
• Fruits of plant are emmenagogues (emmenagogs) and stimulate blood flow in the pelvic area and uterus. It can stimulate menstruation.
• It is rough, hot and irritant.
• It may cause burning sensation in abdomen.
• It increases sweating.

Gloriosa superba is a medicinal plant native of Indian forests. In Ayurveda, Kalihari or Agnishikha is kept in the Upvish varg category. It is one of the seven minor poison. The seven minor poisonous plants of Upvisha Varga are Aak (Madar), Sehund (Thuhar), Kaner, Gunja (Ratti), Afeem (Opium), Dhatura and Kalihari / Langli. Flame lily, Kalihari, Langlika, Langli, Agnishikha, Kalikari, Vishalya are few common names of Gloriosa superba. Gloriosa superba is the state flower of Tamil Nadu and the national flower of Zimbabwe.

Challiyan at ml.wikipedia [CC BY 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

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The rhizomes are capable of causing abortion and therefore they are also called Garbhaghatini (destroyer of Garbha / Pregnancy). Traditionally, Langli is used in treatment of piles, swollen joints, parasitical affections of skin, and for stimulating labor pains. In some parts of country, the roots are administered to cattle affected by worms.

The tubers are used both internally and externally. Externally, it is safe to use.

How the Kalihari tubers are used?

In Ayurveda, two varieties of Gloriosa superba are considered. In one variety, root branches and this type is called male plant. But in other variety, the root does not divide at all and it is considered female plant.

For internal use, the male roots are collected during the flowering season. They are cut in thin slices and soaked in butter-milk added with little salt. It is soaked by night and dried by the day, for four or five days. It is eventually dried well and preserved. By this process, the poisonous properties are said to be removed. For cobra poison, thus Shodhit / purified roots are administered as antidote.

General Information

Kalihari (Gloriosa superba) is an herbaceous tall glabrous branching climber. This is a rainy season plant and sprouts well in warm, humid and tropical conditions.

Rootstock is thick, arched, solid, fleshy-white, almost cylindrical or slightly laterally flattened, occurringin pieces of 15-30 cm long and 2.5 - 3.8 cm thick, often bifurcated with tapering ends, resembling a plough-share, one arm generally more than double the length of the other, brownish externally and yellowish internally, fracture, short, taste, acrid and bitter.

Leaves are alternate, opposite or trinately whorled, lanceolate, strongly nerved, with a long spiral tendril like apex. Flowers are large, showy, axillary, solitary, pedicels reflexed at the tip. Perianth petaloid, persistent. Segments 6, subequal, spreading or reflexed, the margins often undulate. Stamens 6, hypogynous, filaments filiform, anthers linear, dorsinxed, versatile, dehiscing extrorsely.

Ovary 3-celled, ovules numerous in each cell, style filiform, deflexed, with 3 subulate arms stigmatose within. Fruit a large coriaceous septicidal capsule. Seeds subglobose, testa spongy, wing like.

Gloriosa superba is distributed throughout tropical India and in Andaman islands. It is often cultivated in tropical and South Africa, Madagascar, Indonesia, Malaysia and Myanmar.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Flame lily is Gloriosa superba. It belongs to plant family Liliaceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Liliopsida – Monocotyledons
• Subclass: Liliidae
• Order: Liliales
• Family: Liliaceae – Lily family
• Genus: Gloriosa L. – flame lily
• Species: Gloriosa superba L. – flame lily

Synonym

1. Gloriosa abyssinica A. Rich.
2. Gloriosa rothschildiana O'Brien.
3. Gloriosa homblei De Wild.
4. Clinostylis speciosa Hochst.

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Rhizomes, leaves and seeds (for extraction of Thiocolchicoside and Colchicine)

• Distribution: Tropical Asia and Africa
• Habitat: Throughout tropical India, up to 2350 m on the hills.
• Type: Climber herb
• Duration: Perennial
• Group: Monocot
• Status: Endangered
• Toxicity: Poisonous plant

Vernacular names/Synonyms

• Latin name: Gloriosa superba
• Ayurvedic: Langali, Langaliki, Langalaki, Langlahva, Indrapushpi, Agnishikha, Ananta, Vishalya, Visalya, Halini, Sirikrama, Shukrapushpika, Vahnimukhi, Garbhapatani, Kalihari, Kalikari, Shakrapushpi, Garbhaghatini
• Siddha: Kalappaik Kizhangu
• English: Glory Lily, Super Lily, Tiger’s Claws, Climbing Lily
• Bengali: Bisalanguli, Bishalanguli
• Gujarati: Khadiyanag, Dudhiya vachnag
• Hindi: Kalihari
• Kannada: Kolikutumana Gade, Nangulika
• Malayalam: Mathonni, Menthonni
• Marathi: Karianag
• Oriya: Dangogahana
• Punjabi: Kariyari, Kariari
• Tamil: Kalappoi Kizhangu, Akkinichilam
• Telugu: Potthidumpa, Adavinabhi
• Myanmar: Si - mee - dauk

In Ayurveda, Costus specious is also used as Kalihari.

Constituents of Gloriosa superba

Flowers, leaves and tubers contain colchicine, superbin, N-formyl deacetyl colchicine, demethylcolochicine and lumicolchicine. Tubers also contain gloriosine.

Leaves also contain chelidonic acid, 2-hydroxy 6-methoxy benzoic acid and b-sitosterol glucoside.

Uses in Allopathy

In Allopathy, Thiocolchicoside (THC) is used clinically as musclerelaxant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and Colchicine as anti-gout. THC is used for the treatment of painfulmusclespasms, neurologicdisorders, orthopedic, traumatic and rheumatologicdisorders. Both are extracted from the seeds of Gloriosa superba.

Thiocolchicoside is a semi-synthetic sulfur derivative of colchicoside, a naturally occurring glucoside present in the plant Gloriosa superb seeds in the process of producing Colchicine. It is a pale Yellow Powder.

THC has a selective affinity for g-amino-butyric acid (GABA) receptors and acts on the muscular contracture by activating the GABA-nergic inhibitory pathways thereby acting as a potent muscle relaxant. It is less sedating compared to other centrally acting muscle relaxants.

Oral, parenteral and topical formulations of thiocolchicoside are available in India. Many medicines such as Myoril Sanofi-Aventis and TDP (Thiocolchicoside and Diclofenac) Aamorb contain THC. Dosage of Thiocolchicoside for adult is 8-16 mg. The maximum recommended oral dose is 8 mg every 12 hours for no more than 7 consecutive days. The maximum intramuscular dose should be 4 mg every 12 hours, for up to 5 days. Topical application can be used many times a day.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action

The Kalihari rhizome is pungent, bitter, acrid, heating, anthelmintic, laxative, alexiteric, and abortifacient. It is astringent, bitter and pungent in taste (Rasa), pungent after digestion (Vipaka), and is hot in effect (Virya). It aggravates pitta and alleviates aggravated Vata / Vayu and Kapha.

• Rasa (taste on tongue): Kashaya (Astringent), Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter)
• Guna (Pharmacological Action): Tikshna (Sharp), Sara (Unstable)
• Virya (Action): Ushna (Heating)
• Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Katu (Pungent)

Action

• Garbhapatan: Causes abortion
• Kaphahhar: Balances Kapha
• Vatahar: Balances Vata

Important Ayurvedic Formulations

1. Mahavishgarbh taila
2. Nirundi taila
3. Rumalaya cream
4. Langali Gutika
5. Chitrakadi Taila

Important Medicinal Properties

Gloriosa superba is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it. For example, it has abortifacient action and must not be used in pregnancy.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

1. Abortifacient: induces abortion.
2. Anti-inflammatory: reducing inflammation by acting on body mechanisms.
3. Anthelmintic: expel parasitic worms (helminths) and other internal parasites from the body.
4. Alexeteric: Counteracts an infection or toxin.
5. Laxative: tending to stimulate or facilitate evacuation of the bowels.
6. Pustulant: Causing the formation of pustules.
7. Rubefacient: produces redness of the skin on topical application by causing dilation of the capillaries and an increase in blood circulation.

Medicinal Uses of Kalihari / Langali / Agnishikha (Gloriosa superba)

In Ayurveda, Agnishikha tubers are useful in chronic ulcers, leprosy, inflammation, scrofula, hemorrhoids, pruritus, piles, abdominal pain, itching, thirst, bowel complaints, dyspepsia, helminthiasis, flatulence, intermittent fevers and to remove the placenta from the uterus.

The flowers are used for fever and thirst. The root is given internally as an effective antidote against cobra poison. A paste of the root is also used as an anodyne applications in bites of poisonous insects, snake bites, scorpion sting, parasitic skin diseases and leprosy.

1. Asthma, arthritis

Tuber powder and roasted common salt in the ratio of 1:2 is orally taken in a dose of 2 gm for asthma and arthritis.

2. Foreign object in the skin (like nail, glass), splinter

Make a paste of tuber by rubbing on stone and apply on affected place.

3. Lice

The juice of the ground leaves is used for topical application.

4. Poisonous snake bite, scorpion sting, parasitical affections of the skin

The paste of tuber is applied on affected place.

For snake bite, Shodhit (treated as above) tuber slice is chewed thrice a day.

5. Promoting labor pains

The root, powdered and reduced to a paste is applied to the navel, supra-pubicregion and vagina with the object.

6. Paralysis

Shodhit / purified tuber slice is chewed thrice a day. This is done for 15 days.

7. Retained placenta

Paste of the root is applied to the palms and soles and powdered nigella seeds and long pepper are given internally.

8. Rheumatism

Shodhit (treated as above) tuber slice is taken twice a day for 15 days.

9.Spot baldness

The paste of tuber is applied on affected place.

Dosage of Gloriosa superba

125-250 mg. of purified drug.

Always remember, this is a toxic plant. So please do not take internally as a self-medication. It can be lethal.

Inform the children about the poisonous nature of the plant.

Caution, Warning, Side effects

This plant has poisonous effect to environment and livestock. The toxic properties are due to presence of alkaloids chiefly colchicine.

1. Colchicine can kill.
2. Flowers and tuber can cause abortion.
3. It is bad for sperms (anti-spermatogenic).
4. It must not be used in pregnancy, breastfeeding, ulcer and kidney disease.
5. The roots are never used without purification.
6. It is a gastrointestinal irritant and may cause vomiting and purging when taken internally.
7. Symptoms of poisoning include tingling and numbness of the lips, mucous membrane irritation, severe vomiting, diarrhea, colic, hypotension, convulsions, and respiratory failure.

Dendrophthoe falcata is known as Banda, Vanda, Vrikshdani, Vrikshruha and Vriksha-Bhaksha (Vriksha= tree, Bhaksha=one that eats). It is a much branched, bushy flowering hemi-parasitic plant classified as mistletoes. Though it photosynthesizes but depends on host plant for water, nutrients and minerals. It sucks the tree by penetrating through xylem and phloem using a special structure, the haustorium.

The parasitic infestation reduces the growth, vigour and productivity. It causes malformation of woody tissues. Dendrophthoe falcata lives on wide variety of host plants.

Vanda is indigenous to India, Srilanka, Thialand, Indo-china, Australia. It is used medicinally in Ayurveda. Its bark has narcotic properties. The leaves are used in wounds, urinary troubles, menstrual disorders, and asthma. The bark is also used as a substitute for betel-nut. The disease for which Vanda is used depends on the host plant as it draws water and minerals from the host plant. For example, the plant which grows on Tamarindus indica / imli is used to treat impotency. One which grows on Aegle marmelos is for intermittent fever, and on Goolar for female infertility.

General Information

Dendrophthoe falcata / Banda is a branched and glabrous shrub. It is a parasitic plant and grows on variety of trees. Stem is thick, erect, flattened at the nodes and arise in clusters at the point of attack. Tumor like growth is formed at the point where the parasite penetrates the tissues of the host tree and absorb nutrients from it.

Leaves are simple, leathery, entire, thick, persistent, sessile or semi sessile, 7.5 – 18 by 2 – 10 cm, petiolate, exstipulate, alternate or in whorls of three or opposit, and evergreen.

Flowers are large, tubular, bisexual and bright red colored, develop in clusters and are arranged in spike.

Fruits are pseudocarp, where ovary got fused with receptacular cup developing a berry like fruits which are single seeded.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Banda is Dendrophthoe falcata. It belongs to plant family Loranthaceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

1. Kingdom: Plantae
2. Subkingdom: Viridaeplantae
3. Phylum: Tracheophyta
4. Subphyllum: Euphyllophytina
5. Class: Magnoliopsida
6. Subclass: Rosidae
7. Superorder: Santalanae
8. Order: Santalales
9. Family: Loranthaceae
10. Genus: Dendrophthoe
11. Species: falcata

Synonyms:

Loranthus falcatus Linn. f.

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Whole plant

Plant type: Angiospermic epiphyte (plant that derives its moisture and nutrients from the air and rain and grows usually on another plant / a parasite)

Habitat: It grows on tress like Mango, Bargad, Bakayan, Sirish etc.

Distribution: In tropical and sub-tropical region, found throughout India on waste lands and forest trees

Vernacular names /Synonyms

1. Latin name: Dendrophthoe falcata (L) Ettingsh var. Coccinia
2. Sanskrit: Bandaka, Samharsha, Vrikshadani, Vrikharuha
3. Bengali: Maandaa, Bandha, Pharulla
4. English: Mistletoe
5. Gujrati: Baando
6. Hindi: Bandaa
7. Kashmiri: Ittikkanni, Itil
8. Malayalam: Baandagul, Banda
9. Marathi: Vrudhongo
10. Punjabi: Pulluri
11. Tamil: Baadanikaa, Jiddu
12. Telugu: Jeevakamu

Constituents of Dendrophthoe falcata

Flavonoid, quercetin, kempferol, rutin11, tannins, β-sitosterol, stigmasterol, β-amyrin, oleanolic acid

Ayurvedic Properties and Action

Vanda is astringent, bitter, sweet in taste (Rasa), pungent after digestion (Vipaka), and is cool in effect (Virya). It is light and dry in action. It is a Sheet Virya herb. Sheet Virya or Cool potency herb, subdues Pitta (Bile) and Vata (Wind). Sheet Virya herb gives nourishment to body and steadiness. It supports building of body fluids.

• Rasa (taste on tongue): Kashaya (Astringent), Madhura (Sweet), Tikta (Bitter)
• Guna (Pharmacological Action): Laghu (Light), Ruksha (Dry)
• Virya (Action): Shita (Cooling)
• Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Katu (Pungent)

Action

• Grahi - inspissants are medicines which from their stomachic, digestive and heating qualities dry the fluids of the body
• Kaphahara - pacifies Kapha Dosha
• Pittahara - pacifies Pitta Dosha
• Vatahara - pacifies Vata Dosha
• Rasayana - Tonic
• Vrishya - increases the quantity of semen
• Vishaghna - poison-destroying
• Vranaropana - Wound healing
• Rakshoghna - Anti-bacterial
• Shramahara - Antifatigue

Banda is used in treatment of variety of diseases, such as

1. Ashmari - Calculi
2. Arsha - Piles
3. Kantharoga - Diseases of throat
4. Mutraghata - Retention of urine
5. Mutrakricchra - Difficult urination
6. Mutraruja - Dysuria
7. Netraroga - Diseases of eyes
8. Raktapitta - Bleeding disorders
9. Shlipada - Filariasis
10. Vatarakta - Gout
11. Vatavikara - Diseases due to vitiation of Vata
12. Vrana - Wound
13. Mutrasharkara - Sugar in urine
14. Garbhasrava - Discharge from uterus
15. Amatisara - Diarrhea
16. Vishamjvara - Intermittent fever

Important Medicinal Properties

Vanda is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it. For example, it has Contraceptive effect. It reduces testosterone level, sperm motility and density. It has significant diuretic effect and increases excretion of volume of urine and electrolytes.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning

• Antioxidant: Neutralize the oxidant effect of free radicals and other substances.
• Anti-hyperlipidemic: Promoting a reduction of lipid levels in the blood.
• Antimicrobial: Active against microbes.
• Antinociceptive: Reducing sensitivity to painful stimuli.
• Anthelmintic: Expel parasitic worms (helminths) and other internal parasites from the body.
• Anticancer: Used against or tending to arrest or prevent cancer.
• Contraceptive: Prevent pregnancy.
• Diuretic: Promoting excretion of urine/agent that increases the amount of urine excreted.
• Hepatoprotective: Prevent damage to the liver.
• Narcotic: Addictive drug affecting mood or behavior.

Medicinal Use of Banda

Banda or Dendrophthoe falcata, is used as a folk medicine to treat variety of diseases due to its bitter, astringent, cooling, narcotic and diuretic properties.

Vanda is useful in urinarydiseases and calculi as diuretic. It helps in prevention of stone in kidney and bladder. It is given in diarrhea, dysentery, and menstrual disorder, hemorrhage due to cooling and astringent action. This parasitic host is also used in Ayurveda for insanity, epilepsy, cardiac troubles, convulsions and nervine complaints.

1. Arthritis, osteoporosis, gout

1. The dried leaf powder is taken in dose of 1-2 grams.
2. Warm leaves are tied externally on affected joints.

2. Bone fracture, weakened bones

1. Dry the leaves, twigs and Tumor of the plant and ground to make powder. Take this powder in dose of 1-3 grams, twice a day.
2. The smear leaves with mustard oil and warm. Tie these warm leaves on affected bones.

3. Bleeding, diarrhea, excessive bleeding during periods

The leaves of tree are ground to extract juice. Intake of this juice in dose of 10-15 ml helps to stop the bleeding, discharge from body due to astringent action.

4. Coughing

The dried leaf powder is taken in dose of 1-2 grams with honey.

5. Spermatorrhoea

The powder of leaves and bark is given.

6. Skin disorders

Paste of fruits is applied.

7. Toothache

The leaves and flowers of plant are chewed and gargled.

Dosage of Dendrophthoe falcata

• Leaf powder: 1-3 grams.
• Juice of leaves: 10-15ml

Warning

1. It should be taken only in recommended doses.
2. In high doses it can be toxic.
3. The decoction of plant has anti-fertility action.

Shorea robusta or Sal tree is a large, deciduous tree found in India, Myanmar and Nepal. It is a medicinal tree and used in Ayurveda for thousands of years to treat variety of diseases including piles, leucorrhoea, gonorrhea, skin disorders, ulcers, wounds, diarrhea, dysentery, burning sensation, seminal weakness etc.

The resin obtained from the tree is known as Sal damar, Bengal Dammar, Laldhuna Ral, Rhal or Dhoom. It has carminative, stomachic and astringent properties. It gives relief in skin disorders, pain in nerves, burn injury, fever, enlargement of spleen, abnormal discharge from body (menorrhagia, leucorrhoea), diarrhea, and bleeding piles. It is also given in gonorrhea and for weak digestion. In Siddha, it is suggested for ulcers, wounds and menopausal disorders.

General Information

Sal is a deciduous tree with a dark brown bark.

Leaves are simple, alternate, 10—30 cm long, 5—18 cm broad, ovate-oblong, acuminate, tough, thinly coriaceous, glabrous and shining when mature, cordate or rounded, lateral nerves 12—15 pairs, petioles 12—2 cm long, stipules 7.5 mm long, pubescent and deciduous.

Flowers are regular, bisexual. Axillary racemose panicles 7.5—23 cm long. Petals are 5, narrow-oblong or lanceolate, silky tomentose outside. Calyx-tube is very short (not enlarged in the fruit) adnate to the torus, lobes 2.5 mm long, ovate, grey tomentose outside, imbricate, unequally enlarged in the fruit and closely embracing it.Stamens are numerous, shorter than petals, connectives withsubulate bearded appendages, minutely 3-fid at apex; ovary superior, 3-locular with two ovules in each loculus, style subulate. Fruits are ovoid.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Shal is Shorea robusta. It belongs to plant family Dipterocarpaceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Super division: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
• Subclass: Dilleniidae
• Order: Theales
• Family: Dipterocarpaceae – Meranti family
• Genus: Shorea Roxb. ex C.F. Gaertn. – shorea P
• Species: Shorea robusta C.F. Gaertn. – sal tree P

Nativity: Indian Subcontinent

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Resin exuded from the tree, Heartwood, flowers

Plant type: Large tree

Distribution: Grows in the jungles of tropical Himalaya, Assam, Khasia Hills and Central India, up to 1700m.

Habitat: Dense moist deciduous forests, on hill slopes and flat grounds where the soil is deep

Flowering & Fruiting: March – April

Economic Importance: Timber tree. Its wood is strong, durable and resistant to fire. It is used for housebuilding, telephone and electrical poles, sleepers and boats, and for furniture and other carpentry works.

• Resin is used in paints and varnishes, and for sealing the joints or seams in boats.
• Oil obtained from resin is known as Chua oil. It is used for ear troubles and skin diseases.
• Leaves are widely used for making leaf plates and cups.
• Seed oil is used locally for lightening and cooking.

Vernacular names /Synonyms

Latin name: Shorea robusta

Sanskrit: Agnivallabha, Ashvakarna, Ashvakarnika, Chiraparna, Dhanya, Dirghaparna, Dirghashaka, Divyasara, Jaladashara, Jaranadruma, Kaushikahva, Kushika, Lalana, Latashankha, Latataru, Rala, Ralakarya, Sala, Salaniryas, Salaveshta, Sarja, Sarjakarya, Sarjarasa, Sarjjaka, Sasyasambara, Sasyasamvera, Shankataru, Shankurriksha, Shasyasambara, Shura. Sidhaka, Sureshtaka, Tarkshyapravasa, Vallivriksha, Vansha, Vastakarna, Yakshadhupa

English: Indian Dammer (Oleoresin), Sal tree

Hindi: Sakher, Sakhu. Sakhua, Sakob, Sal, Sala, Salwa, Shal, Swet Dhuna (Ral, Shal, Resin)

Tamil: Attam, Kungiliyam, Shalam

Unani: Raal (resin)

Siddha: Kungilyam

Constituents of Shorea robusta

Heartwood contains a chalcone, glycoside 4'hydroxychalcone- a' -O-beta-D-glucopyranoside, apolyphenol-hopeaphenol, leucoanthocyanidin.

Bark contains ursonic acid and oleanane, Shoreaphenol.

Oleoresin, contains triterpenoids, the derivatives of ursonic, oleanane and a triterpene acid.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action

Sal is astringent, bitter, sweet in taste (Rasa), pungent after digestion (Vipaka), and is cool in effect (Virya). It is a Sheet Virya herb. Sheet Virya or Cool potency herb, subdues Pitta (Bile) Vata (Wind) and increases Kapha (Mucus). Sheet Virya herb gives nourishment to body and steadiness. It supports building of body fluids.

Rasa (taste on tongue): Kashaya (Astringent), Madhura (Sweet)

1. Guna (Pharmacological Action): Ruksha (Dry), Ushna (Heating)
2. Virya (Action): Shita (Cooling)
3. Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Katu (Pungent)

Important Medicinal Properties

The resin obtained from the tree is stomachic, astringent, antidysenteric, styptic, antiseptic, and antigonorrhoeic. The bark and leaves are cooling, astringent, acrid, anthelmintic, pain-relieving, constipating, urinary astringent, tonic and purifying.

• Analgesic (resin): Acting to relieve pain.
• Antipyretic (resin): Effective against fever.
• Anti-inflammatory (leaves decoction): Reducing inflammation by acting on body mechanisms.
• Antinociceptive (leaves): Inhibits nociception, the sensation of pain
• Antibacterial (flower decoction):
• Anti-Obesity (leaves): Reduces obesity
• Antiulcer (resin): Tending to prevent or heal ulcers.
• Immunomodulatory (bark): Modifies the immune response or the functioning of the immune system.
• Woundhealing: Heals the wound.

Dosage of Shorea robusta

• Powder 3-5 grams
• Decoction 50-100 ml
• Gum-resin 1-3 grams

Medicinal Uses

1. The resin exuded from the tree is used for dysentery, weak digestion, gonorrhea and as an aphrodisiac.
2. For Asthmatic attacks, cough, fumes of gum-resin are inhaled.
3. For burn injury, in one liter Sesame oil, 250 grams of Ral / resin is heated for 20 minutes. This is made into fine paste by grinding. This paste is applied on affected body part, 4-5 times a day for one to two weeks.
4. In Bloody diarrhea, bleeding piles, urethral discharges gum-resin is taken internally.
5. On ulcers, infected wounds and skin eruptions, the gum-resin is applied.
6. In leucorrhoea and metrorrhagia, heartwood powder / gum resin, is given.
7. For polyuria, emaciation, anemia due to loss of blood, goiter and diseases due to vitiated blood, the powdered flowers or heartwood is used.
8. For typhoid, the bark of tea is prepared like tea and taken orally for five days.
9. In leucorrhoea, 1g resin per day for 30 days gives significant relief.

Marjoram / Marua (Origanum majorana) is an aromatic plant native to Southern Europe, Asia Minor and North Africa. We all know it as culinary flavoring. It is used as a kitchen herb and ornamental plant. The fresh or dried leaves of plant are used as condiment for food seasoning. Scientific name of this plant is Origanum majorana, Majorana majorana or Majorana hortensis and it belongs to Mint family. It is should not be confused with Origanum vulgare or Oregano, which is a different plant.

Marjoram is a healing herb and used traditionally for anxiety, flatulence, menstrual pain, female complaints, colds, fevers and insomnia. The seeds are also used therapeutically. The tea prepared from the leaves give relief in indigestion and flatulence. It has camphor-like and tannic properties. The oil extracted from the plant is used on chest congestion, muscle aches, arthritis, sprain, bruise and toothache. Chewing few leaves helps in tooth ache, gum problems and bad breath. It is also used to reduce sexual libido.

In homeopathy, Sweet marjoram tincture is given as effective remedy for sexual addiction, masturbation and excessively aroused sexual impulses in women. It acts on nervous system and gives good better results in anxiety, headaches and insomnia. For preparing the tincture, fresh, finely chopped aerial parts in flower are steeped in alcohol.

Vernacular names/Synonyms

1. Latin name: Origanum majorana
2. Sanskrit: Fanijjaka, Phanijjaka, Sukhaatmaka, Marubaka
3. Hindi: Marubaka, Murva, Murwa, Marawaa, Maruvam
4. Kannada: Maruga
5. Bengali: Muru
6. Malayalam: Maruvamu
7. Kumauni: Bantulsi
8. Deccan: Murwa
9. Tamil: Maruvu, Marukkolundan
10. Unani: Marzanjosh
11. Common names in India: Maruae, Marua, Maruvaka
12. English: Sweet marjoram, Knotted marjoram
13. French: Marjolaine
14. German: Marjoran
15. Italian: Maggiorana
16. Spanish: Mejorana

General Information

Marjoram is a perennial plant with creeping roots, branched woody stems and opposite, petiolate and hairy leaves. It is cultivated as a biennial in colder climates. It has small, elliptical, velvety, green-gray leaves. The plant reaches height of 1-2 feet. The plant propagates from the seeds.

There are at least 61 species of 17 genera belonging to six families are mentioned under the name oregano. The Greek legends say the sweet aroma of plant comes from the touch of the goddess Aphrodite, who first cultivated the flower.

The name of plant is derived from the Greek words oros, mountain and hill, and ganos, ornament.

Marjoram and Orgeno are closely related but are different plant species. Both are essential ingredients in Greek, Italian and French cuisine and used in folk medicine to treat colds, coughs, gastrointestinal problems and a variety of other conditions.

Oregano (Origanum vulgare): Origanum vulgare Linn. is known as Wild Marjoram, Jangali Marua, Marzanjosh and Oregano. It has classic pungent, hot and spicy oregano flavor. In India, it is mainly found in Shimla hills and in Kashmir valley. It is a perennial runner spreading plant. It has leaves which are oval, smaller toward the top, acute, with generally entire margins. The inflorescence is multiply compound. Corolla is purple-red, pink or purple.

Oregano is main Pizza spice and sprinkled on baked pizza to enhance taste. It is also used in meat, sausages, salads, stewing, dressings and soups. Oregano oil and oregano resin are used in foods, beverages and cosmetics. The leaves of plant contains significant amounts of vitamins E, B6, vitamin C, riboflavin, niacin, folate, pantothenate and biotin. Oregano is also rich in mineral elements such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, manganese, iron, copper, Sulphur, chlorine, iodine and selenium. Its sodium content is low.

Oregano leaves are also used medicinally to treat respiratory (as expectorant and spasmolytic agent) and gastro-intestinal disorders (as choleretic, digestive, eupeptic and spasmolytic agent) due to presence of phenolic compounds carvacrol and thymol. They have antifungal, antioxidant, antibacterial, insect-repelling and anti-biotic action.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Marua is Origanum majorana. It belongs to plant family Labiatae / Lamiaceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

1. Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
2. Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
3. Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
4. Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
5. Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
6. Subclass: Asteridae
7. Order: Lamiales
8. Family: Lamiaceae – Mint family
9. Genus: Origanum L. – origanum P
10. Species: Origanum majorana L. – sweet marjoram
11. Synonym: Majorana hortensis Moench

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Leaves

Plant type: Perennial herb

Origin: Found in regions bordering the Mediterranean Sea.

Habitat: wild in the Mediterranean area and in Asia.

Flowers: purple, pink or white

Leaves colour: Green to gray green

Chief Action: Digestive, antispasmodic, antiseptic, expectorant and pain relieving

Types of Origanum

The genus Origanum consists of over 44 species, 6 subspecies, 3 botanical varieties and 18 naturally occurring hybrids, and includes several types of oregano.

1. Origanum vulgare subsp. hirtum (Greek oregano)
2. Origanum vulgare subsp. gracile (Russian oregano)
3. Origanum vulgare subsp. glandulosum (Algerian oregano)
4. Origanum majorana (Sweet marjoram)
5. Origanum dictamnus (dittany of crete, hop marjoram)
6. Origanum xmajoricum (Italian oregano/Hardy sweet marjoram)
7. Origanum onites (Turkish oregano/Rigani)
8. Origanum syriacum (Syrian oregano/Za’atar)

Constituents of Origanum majorana

Marjoram contains about 3% volatile oil comprising sabinene hydrate, sabinene, linalool, carvacrol, estrogole, eugenol and terpenes, flavonoids including luteolin-7-glucoside, diosmetin- 7-glucoside, apigenin-7-glucoside, rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid, and triterpenoids such as ursolic acid, oleanolic acid, sterols.

Marjoram Oil

Marjoram essential oil or oil of sweet Marjoram is obtained from the dried leaves and flowering tops of Origanum majorana by steam distillation. The fresh leaves of plants contain about 0.3-0.5% oil. In dried plant upto 1 % oil is present.

The colour of oil ranges from pale yellow to amber. It tastes bitter and have penetrating aroma.

Marjoram oil is antiseptic and antiviral. It is diuretic and stimulates secretion of urine. The oil is mainly used in flavoring food items. This essential oil is rubbed externally on sprain, bruises, muscles stiffness and aching tooth.

Important Medicinal Properties

Marua is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it. For example, it has emmenagogue action and increases blood flow to pelvic area. Emmenagogue are used to stimulate menstrual flow when menstruation is absent for reasons other than pregnancy, such as hormonal disorders or conditions.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

1. Allergenic: having the capacity to induce allergy
2. Analgesic: Relieve pain.
3. Antibacterial: Active against bacteria.
4. Anticancer: Against cancer.
5. Astringents: Constrict tissues, styptic.
6. Antispasmodic: Used to relieve spasm of involuntary muscle.
7. Anticonvulsant: Prevent or reduce the severity of epileptic fits or other convulsions.
8. Antipyretic/antifebrile/febrifuge: Effective against fever.
9. Antiviral: Antibacterial: Active against viruses.
10. Carminative: Preventing the formation or causing the expulsion of flatulence.
11. Digestive: Digestant.
12. Diuretic: Promoting excretion of urine/agent that increases the amount of urine excreted.
13. Emmenagogue: Stimulates or increases menstrual flow.
14. Expectorant: Promotes the secretion of sputum by the air passages, used to treat coughs.
15. Sedative: Promoting calm or inducing sleep

Medicinal uses of Sweet Marjoram / Marua

1. It is a digestant and appetizer herb.
2. It helps in fever, flatulence, cough and viral infections.
3. It is sedative, tranquillizer and neurotonic.
4. It stimulates periods.
5. For migraine the leaf juice is extracted and put in each nostril in dose of 4 drops.
6. The chutney prepared from the leaves is helpful in intestinal parasites.
7. The tea is taken in respiratory and gastrointestinal disorders.
8. The oregano essential oil is rubbed on painful-swollen joints.
9. For bad breath, the leaves of plant are chewed.
10. For cough, boil the leaves, ginger and black pepper in water for few minutes. Filter and drink lukewarm.
11. For muscular pain in body, boil fresh leaves of oregano 3 grams, dry ginger powder 2 grams and Ashwagandha 2 gram in 400 ml water till water reduces to one fourth. Filter and drink.
12. For flatulence the chutney or decoction of plant is taken.
13. The leaves are also used as insect repellent.

The tea prepared from the leaves is used to cause sweating in high temperature. They are effective in cold-cough, bronchitis, inflammations of the throat and fever. The tea is sweet, warm and have flavor resembling a blend of thyme, rosemary, and sage. It stimulates menstruation and given in menstrual irregularities. The leaf paste is applied for skin diseases, insect bite and earache.

How to Brew Infusion or Tea of Marjoram (Origanum Majorana)

The infusion of Marjoram fresh or dried leaves has calming effect on mind and emmenagogue action. It has as a warm, sweet, slightly oily taste. This simple preparation is useful in:

1. Hysteria, insomnia, indigestion
2. Improving digestion
3. Stimulating appetite
4. Flatulence, constipation, acidity
5. Constipation
6. Symptoms of cold and flu
7. Dry cough
8. Runny nose
9. Bladder disorders, dropsy
10. Nausea, Motion sickness
11. Nervous headaches

Externally the infusion is used to wash for treating eczema, inflammation and wounds. It can be used as gargle in tonsillitis and gum swelling.

Preparation of Tea

• Take 2 teaspoons of fresh herb, or 1 teaspoon of dried herb.
• Soak in one cup boiling water for ten minutes or more (as per taste).
• Filter and drink.
• This should be taken thrice a day.

Dosage of Marjoram

• Few leaves for chewing.
• For infusion, use 10-15 grams of leaves in one cup boiling water.
• Tincture: 0.5–1 teaspoon, upto thrice a day.

Warning / Contraindications

• The herb is not suited for extended use.
• Do not take in pregnancy, it has emmenagogue action.
• Avoid during breastfeeding.
• Do not give to children below the age of 12.
• Not to be taken by those who suffer from allergy to mint family plant.

Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana) is native to Europe and Asia (southern Russia, eastern Ukraine). It is naturalized in North America can be found growing along roadsides. In America and Europe, it is cultivated and processed as food. Horseradish is mainly used as appetizing spice and condiment. It belong to mustard family and the roots of plant contain oil with strong pungent odour and biting taste. It is added to sauces for flavoring.

By Anna reg - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=9740114

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Horseradish is high in vitamin C and cure deficiency of this water soluble vitamin. Horseradish is good source of vitamin C, fibers, manganese, magnesium, potassium, and zinc. It is good for digestive system. The leaves of plant are used in salads and sandwiches.

In India, horseradish is not much cultivated and mainly grown in gardens in North India and hill stations of South India.

Horseradish is a medicinal herb and used traditionally for healing many disorders. The leaves and roots were used extensively as medicine in Europe during the Middle Ages.

General Information

Horseradish is perennial herb with cylindrical thick, fleshyroots. The plant reaches a height of 2–3 feet. The stem of plant is branched. The basalleaves are large, oblong and long stalked with serrate margin. The stemleaves are narrow and smaller. The plant bears aromaticwhiteflowers arranged in compound terminal panicle. The seeds of plant are notviable and the plant propagates by root division with a section of the crown attached which is cut off when the roots are harvested.

This herb requires temperature between 5 and 19°C with an annual rain fall of 50–170 cm and a soil pH of 5.0–7.5. It prefers moist, semi-shaded environments of the north-temperate regions.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Horseradish is Armoracia rusticana. It belongs to plant family Brassicaceae / Cruciferae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
• Subclass: Dilleniidae
• Order: Capparales
• Family: Brassicaceae ⁄ Cruciferae – Mustard family
• Genus: Armoracia G. Gaertn., B. Mey. & Scherb. – armoracia
• Species: Armoracia rusticana G. Gaertn., B. Mey. & Scherb. – horseradish

Synonym

• Cochlearia armoracia Linn.
• Armoracia lapathifolia Gilib.
• Nasturtium armoracia (L.) Fr.
• Radicula armoracia (L.) B.L. Rob.
• Rorippa armoracia (L.) Hitchc.

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Leaves and roots

Plant type: Herb

Habitat: All parts of Europe and North America. Grown in North India and hill stations of South India.

Known for: Sharp flavored condiment

Constituent of roots

Main constituent of roots are essential oil, calcium, sodium, magnesium, vitamin C (302 mg / 100 gram) and many enzymes.

The oil is pungent, acrid and volatile. Presence of isothiocyanates (Sulfur containing compounds) gives intense pungency and aroma to horseradish. Isothiocyanates are released from the glucosinolate sinigrin and 2-phenylethylglucosinolate by the enzyme myrosinase in presence of water.

Vernacular names/Synonyms

• Latin: Armoracia rusticana
• English: Horseradish, Red Cole, Creole Mustard, German Mustard, Horse-Radish Root (Archaic) And Red Horseradish
• German: Moutarde des allemands

Important Medicinal Properties

Horseradish is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it.

For example, it has diuretic action and should be avoided in diseases where use of diuretic is restricted. It depresses thyroid functions. Horseradish was also used traditionally to cause abortion.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

1. Abortifacient: Induces abortion.
2. Allergenic: causing allergic sensitization.
3. Antiscorbutic: Curing or preventing scurvy.
4. Antibacterial: Active against bacteria.
5. Antiseptic: Capable of preventing infection by inhibiting the growth of infectious agents.
6. Appetizer: Improves appetite.
7. Decongestant: Decreases congestion.
8. Diaphoretic: Promote sweating.
9. Diuretic: Promoting excretion of urine/agent that increases the amount of urine excreted.
10. Digestive: Digestant.
11. Expectorant: Promotes the secretion of sputum by the air passages, used to treat coughs.
12. Hypothyroidism: Depress thyroid function
13. Rubefacient: Produces redness of the skin on topical application by causing dilation of the capillaries and an increase in blood circulation.
14. Stimulant: raises levels of physiological or nervous activity in the body.

Medicinal Uses of Horseradish

For medicinal purpose the roots of plant, either fresh or dried are used. The roots of plant are diuretic, mild laxative and expectorant. They have rubefacient property and on topical application produces redness of the skin by causing dilation of the capillaries and an increase in blood circulation. The roots are used in treatment of flu, fever, weakness, infection of urinary tract, venereal diseases, cancer, asthma, coughs, colic, scurvy, respiratory infections, gout, rheumatism, arthritis, and joint pain.

1. It stimulates digestion.
2. It lowers fever by increasing sweating.
3. It cures deficiency of vitamin C.
4. It increases passing of urine.
5. Chewing root piece promotes the secretion of saliva (sialagogue).
6. For lung strengthening, clearing sinuses, the fresh roots are used in combination with honey and raw apple cider vinegar. The roots are minced and mixed with equal parts raw honey, raw apple cider vinegar and stored in fridge.
7. For hoarseness, the roots are cooked in milk and given with honey.
8. For dandruff, 5 ml of mother tincture is mixed in 50 ml of water and applied on the scalp at bedtime and left overnight. The next morning it is washed with a non-medicated shampoo and process is repeated for three consecutive days.
9. Its topical application increases circulation.
10. For Joint pain, rheumatism, stimulating flow of blood, poultice of roots is applied externally.
11. For infected wounds, poultice of roots is applied due to its antibacterial and antiseptic action.

Dosages of Horseradish

1. 1 -2 tablespoon of horseradish
2. 1.5–3 grams of dry root
3. 2–3 ml tincture thrice a day

Contraindications, Interactions, and Side Effects of Horseradish

1. It is safe to take as natural seasoning and flavoring.
2. It may cause irritation, blister or rashes on topical application in people with sensitive skin.
3. It should not be consumed in excess as it can irritate digestive system, cause bloody vomiting, diarrhea, or the development of an allergic response.
4. It use should be discontinued if any side-effect such as night sweating, diarrhea occur.
5. It lowers the blood pressure.
6. It should not be given to children below the age of 4.
7. Do not use in pregnancy, during breastfeeding, in young children, and people suffering from gastrointestinal diseases.
8. Avoid use three days before taking blood in stool test as it may cause false positive.
9. It may depress thyroid function.
10. It interacts with Levothyroxine.
11. It should not be taken with thyroxine.
12. Do not consume in Low thyroid function and Kidney diseases.

Black caraway (Siyah Zeera) are the seed obtained from the plant Carum bulbocastanum. They are dark in colour compared to cumin seeds and have astringent, and very bitter taste. These aromatic seeds are rich in essential oil and consumed like a condiment and medicine. They are widely used as a spice, for flavoring dishes.

Black caraway, is used in Ayurveda for many digestive disorders. It considered as a stimulant. It has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-spasmodic, carminative, and lactation stimulant properties. They are used in treating diarrhea, dyspepsia, fever, flatulence, stomachic, hemorrhoids and hiccoughs. Black caraway is especially useful in diabetes, as it not only controls the elevated blood sugar level but also reduces bad cholesterol. It protects against diseases of heart and brain.

By Sanjay Acharya - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=4583654

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General Information

Black Caraway is a perennial aromatic spice found in dry temperate regions of northwest Himalayas, alpine areas of Himachal Pradesh and Kashmir and Uttaranchal. The plant is branched, tuberous. Leaves 2–3 pinnate, finely dissected. Flowers white, borne on compound umbels. Fruit vicid, ridged, vittae 3– 5 mm long, brown to dark brown.

Difference between Kala Jeera and Kalonji

In Ayurveda, three types of cumin seeds are mentioned

1. Jeerak

2. KrishnaJeerak

3. Kaarvi (also known as Sthula Jiraka, Upakunchika, Sushavi).

Jeerak is seeds of plant Cuminum cyminum belonging to family Apiaceae. It is commonly known as Cumin, Jeera, Jeraka, Jira, Zeera, Zira or Safed Jeera. Cumin or Safed Jeera is antimicrobial, anti-diabetic, antiepileptic antifertility, anticancer, antioxidant and immunomodulatory due to the presence of various pharmacologically active substance. It contains 2.5 to 4.5% volatile oil, 10% fixed oil and proteins. Volatile oil mainly consists of 30 to 50% cuminaldehyde, small quantities of a-pinene, b-pinene, phellandrene, cuminic alcohol, hydrated cuminaldehyde and hydro cuminine.

As Krishna Jiraka, the seeds of two species are used, namely Carum bulbocastanum (Syn Bunium persicum) and Carum carvi.

Carum carvi and Carum bulbocastanum have similar properties and both are used as Krishna Jiraka in Ayurveda. They have similar medicinal uses. In India Carum carvi, cultivated as cold season crop in plains of India and as summer crop in hilly areas of Kashmir, Kumaon, Garhwal and Chamba is more commonly used asKala jeera or Black Caraway.

Kaarvi, also known as Kalaunji, Mangaraila, Black Cumin (sometimes referred as Black caraway) are the seeds of Nigella sativa. In Bengali, it is known as Mota Kalajira and Kalajira.

Kala Zeera and Kalounji are structurally and botanically totally different from each other. But both are known as and available as Black Cumin.

Kalounji (Nigella sativa) belong to plant family Ranunculaceae (buttercup or crowfoot family) whereas Kala Jira belong to Apiaceae, the Parsely / Carrot family. Kala Zira (Carum bulbocastanum) are smaller than regular cumin but have similar appearance. Nigella seeds are black, flattened, funnel shaped and do not even look like cumin seeds.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of is Carum bulbocastanum W. Koch.. It belongs to plant family Umbelliferae / Apiaceae (the Parsley family). Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
• Subclass: Rosidae
• Order: Apiales
• Family: Apiaceae / Umbelliferae – Carrot family
• Genus: Bunium L. – earth-nut
• Species: Bunium bulbocastanum L. – earth-nut

Synonyms

1. Bunium persicum (Boiss.) Fedts.
2. Bulbocastanum linnaei Schur

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Seeds, fruits

Plant type: Herb

Distribution: Cultivated in the hills and plains of North India and in the hills of South India.

Habitat: Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Afghanistan, and Iran.

Propagation: By bulbs or seeds

Siyah Zeera Oil: The essential oil obtained from the seeds of Siyah Zeera is brown-black in colour and used as condiment.

Vernacular names / Synonyms

1. Scientific name: Carum bulbocastanum
2. Ayurvedic: Krishna jiraka, Kashmira jirak
3. Unani: Jira Siyah, Kamoonarmani, Zeeraa Siyah, Kamoon, Kamoon-roomi
4. Siddha: Shemai-shiragam, Pilappu-shiragam
5. English: Black Caraway, Black cumin, Black jeera, Imperial cumin, Kashmiri jeera, Wild cumin
6. Persia: Jira-shak
7. Nepal: Himali jira, Kalo jira
8. Pakistan: Kala Jira
9. Iran: Zire Kermani

Constituents of Carum bulbocastanum

The seeds contain 40-60 percent volatile oil. The principal constituents of the essential oil are cuminaldehyde (45.4%) and p-cymene (35%). Carvone, limonene, a- pinene, ß-pinene, cymene and terpinene are the minor constituents. Flavonoids, mainly quercetin derivatives, polysaccharides and calcium oxalate are also present.

Important Medicinal Properties

Carum bulbocastanum is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

• Antispasmodic: Used to relieve spasm of involuntary muscle.
• Antimicrobial: Active against microbes.
• Carminative: Preventing the formation or causing the expulsion of flatulence.
• Digestive: Digestant.
• Expectorant: Promotes the secretion of sputum by the air passages, used to treat coughs.
• Emmenagogue: Stimulates or increases menstrual flow.
• Galactagogue: Promotes or increases the flow of a mother's milk.
• Stomachic: Stimulates gastric activity.
• Uterine disinfectant: Disinfects uterus.

Medicinal Uses of Siyah Zeera (Krishna Jirak / Kala Jira / Black Caraway)

Krishna Jirak or Zeera Siyah, like other cumin seeds are good for digestive system. They support digestion, give relief in flatulence, and indigestion. They removes toxins from uterus and given after delivery. They are used as a medicine in diarrhea, dyspepsia, fevers, inflammations, indigestion, cough, intestinal catarrh and all types of anorexia.

Black Caraway is effective in treatment of following ailments

1. Appetite loss
2. Bronchitis
3. Cough
4. Common cold
5. Diabetes
6. Fever
7. Liver and gall bladder diseases
8. Obesity
9. Swelling of throat / mouth

Black caraway Health Benefits

1. It stimulate appetite and digestion.
2. It stimulates menstruation.
3. It gives relief in gas.
4. It reduces bloodsugarlevel.
5. It helps to reduce weight.
6. It lowers bad cholesterol LDL.
7. It is good for cardiovascular health.
8. It pacifies Vata, Pitta, and Kapha Dosha.
9. It is stomachic, carminative, and tonic.
10. It soothes uterine muscles, alleviates menstrual cramps.
11. It increases lactation.
12. For indigestion and diarrhea, the seeds are crushed and taken with water.
13. For Stomach ache and Gastric problem, powdered cumin seeds are taken with lemon juice.

Dosage of Siyah Zeera

The powder Kala Zeera can be taken in dose of 1-3 grams for obesity, digestive disorders, low appetite, respiratory ailments etc.

Contraindications, Interactions, Side-effects and Warnings

1. Hazards and/or side effects not known for proper therapeutic dosages.
2. Do not take in inflammation of the kidneys.
3. It may reduce the effectiveness of allopathic hypertension medicine if taken in high amounts.

Jaiphal (Nutmeg) and Javitri (Mace) both are obtained from an aromatic, evergreen tree Myristica fragrans belonging to family Myristicaceae. The seed of the tree is known as nutmeg and the aril of the seed is called Mace or Jaivitri. Indonesia is one of the largest supplier of this medicinal herb. In India it is cultivated in the Nilgiris, Kerala, Karnataka and West Bengal. Nutmeg is used for adding flavor and also for medicinal purpose. All around the globe, it is used as folk remedy for treating ailments especially related to digestive system.

By Ramesh NG (Flickr: Three maces of Nutmegs) [CC BY-SA 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

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Nutmeg has antioxidant, anti­diarrhoeal, stimulant, carminative, astringent, aphrodisiac and abortifacient (causing abortion) properties. It is used for treating colic, indigestion, loose motion, gas, nausea, rheumatism etc. Mace or Javitri is used for treating chronic intestinal disorders, fever, cholera and intestinal worms. It is aromatic, anthelmintic, appetizer, anti-emetic and carminative.

General Information

Nutmeg is a small evergreen tree, with alternate, oblong ovate, acute, entire, smooth dark green leaves. The leaves are 7.5-8.8 cm long, lanceolate shaped, coriaceous with shiny portion. The flowers are small and pale yellow.

Its fruits are oval, lustrous, smooth, small, scented, and brownish in color. The cover of fruit is hard, oval to ovoid, and enclose mace, the outer covering on the nutmeg seed (Jaiphal). On ripening the fruit is bifurcated and reddish covering nutmeg is exposed. The orange-yellow papery material which separates from the seed on drying is called Mace (Javitri in Hindi). Javitri and Jaiphal, both are used as Indian Spice. On cutting the kernel dark veins can be seen which are due to the presence of aromatic oils.

The name nutmeg is misleading as it is not a nut. In nuts, fruit consist of a hard or tough shell around an edible kernel.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Nutmeg is Myristica fragrans. It belongs to plant family Myristicaceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

1. Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
2. Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
3. Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
4. Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
5. Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
6. Subclass: Magnoliidae
7. Order: Magnoliales
8. Family: Myristicaceae – Nutmeg family
9. Genus: Myristica Gronov. – nutmeg
10. Species: Myristica fragrans Houtt. – nutmeg

Synonyms

1. Myristica officinalis L. f.
2. Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Seeds and
3. Plant type: Tree
4. Duration: Perennial
5. Nutmeg Oil: Used as stimulant. It is rubbed on the temples for headache.

Vernacular names / Synonyms

1. Scientific name: Myristica fragrans
2. Ayurvedic: Jaiphal, Jatiphala, Jatiphalam, Jatikosha, Jatipatri, Jatipatra, Jatishasya
3. Unani: Jauzbuwaa (seed), Bisbasa (Mace / Javitri)
4. Siddha/Tamil: Jaathikkai, Saadikai (nutmeg)
5. Assamese: Jaiphal, Kanivish
6. Bengali: Jaiphala, Jaitri
7. English: Nutmeg
8. Gujrati: Jaiphala, Jayfar
9. Hindi: Jaiphal
10. Kannada: Jadikai, Jaykai, Jaidikai
11. Kashmiri: Jafal
12. Malayalam: Jatika
13. Marathi: Jaiphal
14. Oriya: Jaiphal, Jaifal, Jaifar
15. Punjabi: Jaiphal
16. Tamil: Sathikkai, Jathikkai, Jatikkai, Jadhikai, Jadhikkai, Adipalam, Attigam
17. Telugu: Jajikaya
18. Urdu: Jauzbuwa, Jaiphal
19. Arabic: Jeeyansiben

Constituents of Nutmeg

The main constituents are essential oil and fixed oil. Nutmeg contains 16 % and mace 11–15% essential oil. The essential oil is used to prepare soap and scented detergents.

Chief Phytochemicals in Nutmeg

1. Elemicin
2. Furfural
3. Myristic-Acid
4. Myristicin
5. Safrole

Nutmeg contains fixed oil 24–30 per cent of fatty oils, known as Nutmeg Butter. Nutmeg butter is used in massage for arthritis, paralysis, rheumatism, sciatica, and sprains. It is also used as an external stimulant in hair lotions, ointments, and plaster.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action

Nutmeg is known as Jatiphala in Ayurveda and said to have saffron-like activity. It is pungent, bitter in taste (Ras) and light in action (Guna). Its post-digestive effect (Vipak) is pungent. It is an Ushna Virya herb. Ushna Virya or hot potency herb, subdues Vata (Wind) and Kapha (Mucus) and increases Pitta (Bile). It has property of digestion, vomiting and purging, and gives feeling of lightness. It is considered bad for fetus. It has a special effect on the nervous system and given in weakness of nerves.

Rasa (taste on tongue): Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter)

Guna (Pharmacological Action): Laghu (Light), Tikshna (Sharp)

Virya (Action): Ushna (Heating)

Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Katu (Pungent)

Nutmeg gives relief in Vata and Kapha and increases pitta. It is carminative, antiemetic and thermogenic. It is useful in indigestion, low appetite, nausea and piles.

Action on Body

Jatiphal is used in Ayurveda for Atisara, shvasa, Chardi, Kasa, Pinasa, Grahani, Mukharoga, shukrameha.

1. Deepana: Promote appetite but do not aid in digesting undigested food
2. Grahi: Inspissants are medicines which from their stomachic, digestive and heating qualities dry the fluids of the body
3. Vrishya: Increases the quantity of semen
4. Kaphahara: Pacifies Kapha Dosha
5. Vatahara: Pacifies Vata Dosha

Important Ayurvedic Formulations

1. Jatiphaladi Churna
2. Puga Khanda
3. Khadiradi vati

Important Medicinal Properties

Nutmeg is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it. For example, it has abortifacient action and causes miscarriage when taken in medicinal doses. It is heating and thermogenic which increases heat in body.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

1. Aphrodisiac: Stimulates sexual desire.
2. Abortifacient: Induces abortion.
3. Allergenic: Causes allergy.
4. Analgesic: Relieve pain.
5. Antibacterial: Active against bacteria.
6. Anticancer: Used against or tending to arrest or prevent cancer
7. Anti-inflammatory: Reducing inflammation by acting on body mechanisms.
8. Antiseptic: Preventing the growth of disease-causing microorganisms.
9. Carminative: Preventing the formation or causing the expulsion of flatulence.
10. Digestive: Digestant.
11. Expectorant: Promotes the secretion of sputum by the air passages, used to treat coughs.
12. Emmenagogue: Stimulates or increases menstrual flow.
13. Hallucinogen: Causes hallucinations
14. Hypocholesterolemic: Lowers levels of cholesterol in the blood
15. Narcotic: dulls the senses, relieves pain, and induces profound sleep but in excessive doses causes stupor, coma, or convulsions.
16. Stimulant: Raises levels of physiological or nervous activity in the body.

Medicinal Uses of Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) and Mace

Nutmeg and mace are known as Jaiphal and Javitri respectively. Nutmeg is hot in potency and used as stimulant, aphrodisiac, astringent, carminative and narcotic. It helps in rheumatism, sciatica, anorexia, colic, diarrhea, dyspepsia, dysentery, bronchial troubles, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, loose motions, delirium, insomnia, senile debility and sexual weakness.

Mace is used therapeutically for indigestion and intermittent fevers. Roasted nutmeg is used internally for leucorrhea.

Nutmeg has sedative and CNS depressant effects. It has relaxant effect on smooth muscles of the intestine.

1. Dysentery

1. Nutmeg has confirmed anti-diarrhoeal activity.
2. Take a pinch of powdered nutmeg with a cup of hot milk.

2. Diarrhea

Mix a pinch of nutmeg powder in 1/4 teaspoon of ginger paste. Mix in one glass buttermilk and drink.

3. Loose motion, colic pain

Mix nutmeg powder (1/8 teaspoon) with gur or jaggery and 1 tsp ghee and take for curing loose motion.

4. Dehydration due to diarrhea, loose motion, cholera

Take half nutmug. Soak in one glass water for 3 hours. Mix this water with coconut water in equal amount. Drink 2­3 times a day.

5. Itching, fungal infection, ringworm

Rub one nutmeg on a stone with some water and make fine paste. Apply on the affected parts.

6. Stomach ache

Powdered nutmeg mixed with ghee is given once a day.

7. Sleeplessness

A pinch of jaifal powder is mixed in luke warm milk and consumed in the night.

Dosage of Nutmeg

• Nutmeg powder (Jatiphala) is taken in dose of 500 mg to 1 gram.
• Mace (Javitri) is taken in dose of 250 mg to 1 gram.
• Children of age group 5-16 years are given half of the adult dose.
• Contraindications, Interactions, Side-effects and Warnings (Nutmeg)
• It is safe in small recommended dosage.
• It is unsafe to use nutmeg in pregnancy. It must not be used in pregnancy.
• In high doses (one to three whole seeds or 5 to 15 g) it is very toxic and has narcotic effect. It can cause euphoria, a sensation of floating, flushed skin, vomiting, circulatory collapse, and visual or auditory hallucinations, within one to six hours.
• In excessive dose body shows symptoms of delirium, epileptic convulsions, giddiness, weak pulse and feeling of heaviness in chest.
• In clinical study the nutmeg oil has shown decreasesfertility in rats.
• The seed extract cayuses anxiety.

Botanical name of Arabian or French lavender is Lavandula stoechas. It is a perennial ornamental and medicinal plant. French lavender bears beautiful flowers which are bright purplish-pink. The flower blooms from mid-spring to autumn. French lavender is used for a folk medicine in many countries. The extract of flowers has antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant properties.

I, Drow male [GFDL (http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html) or CC BY-SA 4.0-3.0-2.5-2.0-1.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0-3.0-2.5-2.0-1.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

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In Unani medicine it is known as Ustukhuddus and used in treatment of variety of diseases. In Unani literature, it is considered antiseptic, deobstruent, demulcent, phlegmagogue, nervine tonic, antianxiety and anticonvulsant. It removes black bile from the brain, gives strength and improves the intellect and hence called Jaroobe dimagh which literally means broom of brain. It is also used to treat headache and diseases due to the nervine weakness.

General Information

There are about 32 species of Lavandula which are distributed from the Canary Islands, Madeira, Mediterranean Basin, North Africa, South West Asia, Arabian Peninsula, and India.

Lavandula stoechas is a native of the Mediterranean region. The plant grows to 0.8 m (2ft 7in) by 0.8 m (2ft 7in). Flowers are hermaphrodite having both male and female organs. They are pollinated by insects. The dried plant and flowers are used for medicinal purpose. The flowers have camphor like smell.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Common lavender is Lavandula stoechas. It belongs to plant family Lamiaceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
• Subclass: Asteridae
• Order: Lamiales
• Family: Lamiaceae / Labiatae – Mint family
• Genus: Lavandula L. – lavender
• Species: Lavandula stoechas L. – French lavender

Synonyms

Stoechas officinarum

• Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Leaves, flowers
• Plant type: compact subshrub
• Distribution: Canary Islands, Madeira, Mediterranean Basin, North Africa, South West Asia, Arabian Peninsula, and India
• Habitat: Dry hills, garigue and open woods on limestone and granite soils

Vernacular names / Synonyms

• Scientific name: Lavandula stoechas
• Common Name: Spanish Lavender, French Lavender, Arabian Lavender
• English: Common lavender, French lavender
• Unani: Ustukhuddus, Ustikuus
• Hindi: Dharu, Alphagandharu
• Spain: Romero Santo
• Arabic: Anisul arwah, Mumsikul arwah

Few Unani Formulations

• Majoon-e-najah
• Itrifal Ustukhuddus

Constituents of Lavandula stoechas

Lavandula stoechas contains organic, inorganic substances and essential oil (0.77-1.2%). Linalyl acetate (15.26%), linalool (10.68%), 1-8 cineole (10.25%), terpinene (11.2%) and camphor (11.25%) are present in essential oil of the dried flower.

Important Medicinal Properties

1. Mus-hil Balghem (Phlegm Purgative)
2. Musaffi Dam (Blood purifier)
3. Mufatteh (Deobstruent)
4. Muqavvi Aasab (Nervine tonic)
5. Munzij Balghem (Phlegm concoctive)
6. Munzij Sauda (Melancholic concoctive)
7. Murr, Talkh, (bitter)

Medicinal Uses of Ustukhuddus / Arabian or French lavender

1. It is used in Unani for treating brain disorders.
2. It is a brain tonic and improves the intelligence.
3. It removes confusion of mind.
4. It enhance memory.
5. It manages depression and anxiety.
6. It strengthens mind and cures mental fatigue.
7. It is used in combination with other herbs for depression, headaches, migraine.
8. It is given to cure cough and chronic catarrh.
9. It is effective in sinusitis.

Dosage of Lavandula stoechas

1. The recommended dose is 3-6 grams.
2. Contraindications, Interactions, Side-effects and Warnings Lavandula stoechas
3. It should not be taken in excess in pregnancy.
4. Lavender oil in large doses is a narcotic poison.
5. Frequent intake can cause abdominal pain.
6. It interact with diuretic and blood pressure lowering medicines.

Cymbopogon jwarancusa is medicinal plant belonging to grass family. It is found in temperate and tropical areas of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Iraq and many other countries. An essential oil with mint smell is present in the plant in low amount. In India, few common names used for this plant include Lamajja, Lamajjaka (Sanskrit), Vilaamichhan (Siddha) and Izkhar Makki (Urdu).

Cymbopogon jwarancusa is used in treatment of diseases of the blood, skin, burning sensations, leprosy, biliousness, thirst, vomiting, unconsciousness and fever. It is cooling, bitter, digestible, alexiteric, appetizer, stomachic and astringent. Externally, it is applied on applied to abdominal tumor.

In Unani, whole plant is known as Izkhar Makki, roots as Bekhe Izkar and flowers as Shagofa Izkher. The plant is used as an ingredient of many Unani medicines.

General Information

It is a tall grass, up to 1.8 m. high with aromatic roots. Leaves are flat up to 60 cm long and 5 mm broad, narrowly linear, filiform above and ending in a long capillary tip.

Description: Culm erect, about 1 m high, nodes often swollen (Fig 5). Leaf-sheath glabrous, more of less curled. Leaf-blade whitish, glabrous. Spathate panicle erect, 15-40 cm long. Raceme 13-22mm long; lowermost pedicel and lower raceme-base not swollen and not fused. But flat/rachisinternodes and pedicels densely pilose along the margins and the back. Sessile spikelet 4.5-5.5mm long, lower glume lanceolate, 0.8 mm wide, sharply keeled, shallowly concave on the backglabrous, nerveless or 1-2 nerved; awn 7-10 mm long. Pedicelled spikelet 6 mm long; lower glume lanceolate, 0.8-1 mm wide, 3-7 nerved.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of plant is Cymbopogon jwarancusa. It belongs to plant genusCymbopogon and familyPoaceae / Gramineae. Many plants belonging to this family are used for commercial and medicinal uses. They are high in essential oil content.

The name of genus, Cymbopogon is derived from Greek word kymbe = hallow boat like-vessel and pogon = beard. It Species name is jwarancusa, which is probable derived from Sanskrit word jwar=fever and Cusa / Kusha= grass, or Ankusha=breaker as this grass traditionally used to treat fever. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Liliopsida – Monocotyledons
• Subclass: Commelinidae
• Order: Cyperales
• Family: Poaceae / Gramineae – Grass family
• Genus: Cymbopogon Spreng. – Lemon grass
• Species: Cymbopogon jwarancusa (Jones) Schult.

Synonyms

• Andropogon jwarancusa Jones.
• Andropogon himalayensis Gandoger

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Whole plant, especially roots and shoots

Plant type: Grass, weed

Distribution: Outer hill zone of the Kumaon, Garhwal, Peshawar, Jodhpur and Jaisalmer, Sind, Bihar

Duration: Perennial

Group: Monocot

Vernacular names / Synonyms

1. Scientific name: Cymbopogon jwarancusa
2. Sanskrit: Amrinala, Avadahaka, Avadataka, Dirghamula, Ishthakapathika, Jalashaya, Laghu, Lamajjaka, Laya, Nalada, Sevya, Shighra, Sunala, Sunila
3. Hindi: Bur, Ghatyari, Ibharankusha, Karankusha, Khavi, Khawi, Khoi, Lamjak, Panni, San, Solara
4. Bengal: Gandhavena, Ibharankusha, Karankusa
5. Gujarati: Jalavalo, Khadajala, Pilovalo
6. Arabic: Izkhir
7. Persian: Gurgiyah
8. Chinese: Mei guicao
9. Japanese: Jamaroosa, Jamaroosagurasu.
10. French: Herb de Citron, Citronnelle en herbe
11. German: Zitronengras
12. Ayurvedic: Jwarankush, Lamajja, Lamajjaka
13. Siddha: Vilaamichhan
14. Unani: Izkhar Makki (Plant), BekheIzkar (Root) and Shagofa Izkher (flower)

Constituents of Cymbopogon jwarancusa

Major constituent of the essential oil is piperitone, 65% others include borneol, cadinene, camphene, camphor,farnesene, geraniol, alpha-and beta-pinene. The antibacterial activity is attributed to piperitone.

Important Medicinal Properties

Cymbopogon jwarancusa is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it. Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

Antioxidant: Reduces damage due to oxygen, such as that caused by free radicals.

Anti-rheumatic: Counteracting rheumatism and rheumatoid disease.

Blood purifier: Detoxifies.

Bechic: Remedy for a cough.

Carminative: relieving flatulence.

Diuretic: Causing increased passing of urine.

Emmenagogue: Stimulates or increases menstrual flow.

Lithontriptic: Dissolving or destroying stone in the bladder or kidneys

Medicinal Uses of Cymbopogon jwarancusa

Cymbopogon jwarancusa / Izkhar is used in treatment of variety of diseases due to its antimicrobial, antioxidant, astringent, cooling, expectorant, digestive, carminative and blood purifying properties.

It is used to purify blood. It is used as tonic in dyspepsia, especially that of children, stimulant and diaphoretic. It is also used in treatment of gout, rheumatism and fever.

Unani Properties

Muqavvi Meda wa Ama (Gastric and intestine tonic): Tone up the gastric and intestine, improve the liver function by various ways

Hazim (Digestive): Help in digestion either by tone up gastric or by toning intestine

Unani Formulations

Arq-E-Amber: Used as a general tonic.

Arq Maullehem Mako Kasni wala: Having Mohallil Auram Shikam (Resolvant of inflammation of stomach) action and used in treatment of Liver and other abdominal disorders.

Dawaul Kurkum Sagheer: Having Muqavvi Gurda (Renal tonic), Muqavvi Masana (Urinary bladder tonic) and Muqavvi Jiger (Liver tonic) properties and used in treatment of liver and Spleen disorders.

Majun-E-Dabid-Ul-Ward / Majun Dabeedulvard: Having Mudirr-e-Baul (Diuretic), Mohallil-e-Waram (Antiinflammatory) properties and used in treatment of Waram-e-Jigar (Hepatitis), Waram-e-Meda (Gastritis), Waram-e-Rahem (Uteritis), Zof-e-Jigar (Weakness of liver) and Zof-e-Meda (Weakness of stomach).

Recommended Dose of plant

1. The powder is taken in dose of 3-5 grams.
2. This plant has emmenagogue action and therefore should not be used in pregnancy.

Lemongrass is indigenous to India. Its aromatic stem and leaves are commonly used in fresh or dried form in Asian cuisine. It is used in preparation of teas, soups, and curries. In cosmetic industry, the essential oil is added to soaps and hair care products.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/hulagway/8313631600

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Lemongrass is medicinal plant. It is used both internally and externally. It is effective against catarrh, cough, asthma, bladder disorders, febrile conditions, flatulence and fever. It has rubefacient (causes dilation of the capillaries and increases blood circulation) action and used externally for chronic rheumatic ailments, lumbago, and sprains.

Lemongrass tea, prepared from the leaves of plant is good for digestive disorders and catarrhal conditions. It gives relief from bloating, gas cramps, pain after eating and stomach acidity. Lemongrass tea eases the pain during periods and reduces swelling in body.

General Information

Lemongrass is a tall tufted perennial grass cultivated in various parts of India.

Description of plant

• Leaf: Leaves are glaucous, linear, parallel veined, about 90 cm in length, 2 to 3 cm in width, conspicuous midrib present, apex pointed, margin entire, with sheathing base and a ligule at its base. The leaf has aroma of lemon with bitter taste.
• Stem: It is pale yellow-light green, hollow, 4 to 10 cm in length, 1 to 3 cm in diameter.
• Rhizome: The rhizomes are irregular, dark brown in colour, narrow internodes present 4 to 9 cm in length, 1.5 to 2 cm in diameter.
• Root: Fibrous roots are adventitious, 5 to 10 mm in length, 0.2 to 0.7 mm in thickness.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Lemongrass is Cymbopogon citratus. It belongs to plant genus Cymbopogon and familyPoaceae / Gramineae. The name of genus, Cymbopogon is derived from Greek word kymbe = hallow boat like-vessel and pogon = beard. Many plants belonging to this family are used for commercial and medicinal uses. They are high in essential oil content.

Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Liliopsida – Monocotyledons
• Subclass: Commelinidae
• Order: Cyperales
• Family: Poaceae ⁄ Gramineae – Grass family
• Genus: Cymbopogon Spreng. – lemon grass
• Species: Cymbopogon citratus (DC. ex Nees) Stapf – lemon grass

Synonyms

1. Andropogon citratus DC.
2. Andropogon citriodorum Desf.
3. Andropogon roxburghii Nees.

Vernacular names / Synonyms

1. Scientific name: Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Staph
2. Common names: Lemon Grass, Barbed Wire Grass, Silky Heads, Citronella Grass, Cha De Dartigalongue, Gavati Chaha, Hierba Luisa, Fever Grass
3. Sanskrit / Ayurvedic: Rohisham, Jambira truna, Atigandha, Badhira, Bhutrinah, Jambiratrinah, Guhybija, Bhutika, Gochhalaka, Guchhala, Guhyabija, Gundardha, Jambukapriya, Karenduka, Kutimbaka, Malatrinaka, Punsvavighraha, Putigandha, Rohisha, Samalambi, Shringaroha, Sugandha, Kattrina
4. Bengali: Gandhatrun, Gandhabenaa
5. English: Lemon grass
6. Gujrati: Lilichaa
7. Hindi: Gandhatrun, Harichaaya, Gandhatrina
8. Kannada: Majjigahullu
9. Malayalam: Chennanampullu, Incippullu, Vasanappullu
10. Marathi: Hirvaa Chahaa, Olaa Chahaa, Paatichahaa
11. Punjabi: Gandhatrun, Sharbaan
12. Telugu: Nimmagaddi, Vasana gaddi
13. Tamil: Karpurappillu, Vasanappillu
14. Sri Lanka: Sera
15. Siddha: Elumitchai Pul

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Leaf, Stem, Oil

Plant type: Grass, herb

Distribution: Found throughout India

Habitat: Warm climate

Group: Monocot

Lemon grass essential oil: It is a yellow or amber liquid with antiseptic properties. It is effective against most strains of fungal and bacterial infections.

Main indications of Lemongrass

Intake of lemongrass powder or tea is beneficial in following conditions.

1. Catarrh, Congestion, Cough, Cold
2. Indigestion, gas, abdominal pain
3. Flu, Fever, Swelling
4. Painful periods
5. Headache, sleeplessness
6. High blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol
7. Ringworm, Fungus, Candida, Yeast, Scabies (Topical use)

Constituents of Cymbopogon citratus

The lemongrass contains a volatile oil with citral (about 70%), Citral, Citronellal, Citronellol, Geraniol, Geranyl-Acetate and Myrcene.

The essential oil obtained from the plant contains citral.

Citral has Anti-allergic, Antibacterial, Anticancer, Anti-parasitic, Expectorant, Sedative and Teratogenic (can disturb the development of an embryo or fetus, may cause a birth defect in the child) properties.

An insulin-like principle (neither an alkaloid nor a glucoside) has been isolated from the plant.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action

Lemongrass is considered bitter, pungent in taste (Rasa), pungent after digestion (Vipaka), and is cool in effect (Virya). It is used in Ayurveda, for treatment of Shvas (Asthma), Bhuta Badha (mental diseases), Burning sensation, dadru (ring- worm), Kasa (Cough, Bronchitis), Krimi (Worms), Kushtha (Skin diseases), Udara (Abdominal disorders), Arochaka (loss of appetite, taste, or anorexia), Santap (Heat), Vami (Vomiting) etc.

Due to Katu and Tikta Rasa, it stimulates digestion. Tikshna and Ruksha Guna, makes it expectorant and helps to cure Kapha. It is cooling and helps to reduce high body temperature. It cures Visha (poisoning).

• Rasa (taste on tongue): Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter), Amla (Sour)
• Guna (Pharmacological Action): Laghu (Light), Tikshna (Sharp / Penetrating), Ruksha (Dry)
• Virya (Action): Sheeta (Cooling)
• Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Katu (Pungent)
• Dosha: Reduces Vata, Pitta and Kapha; But increases Vata when taken in excess
• Srota (Channel): Digestive, Respiratory, Female reproductive, Urinary, and Sweat

Action

1. Amapachana: Toxin digester
2. Deepana: Promote appetite but do not aid in digesting undigested food
3. Cakshushya: Good for eyes
4. Mukhasodhana: Purification of mouth
5. Rechana: Purgation
6. Ruchikarak: Improve taste
7. Stanyajana: promote the secretion of milk
8. Shitaprasamana: Pacify cold
9. Kaphahara: Pacifies Kapha Dosha
10. Pittahara: Pacifies Pitta Dosha
11. Vishaghna: Poison-destroying
12. Vamihara: subsides vomiting
13. Jwaraghna: Alleviates fever

Important Medicinal Properties

Cymbopogon citratus is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it. For example, it should be taken during pregnancy due to emmenagogue, abortifacient and teratogenic properties.

Studies show, the plant causes apoptosis or programmed cell death in cancer cells but the normal cells are unharmed. Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.The plant has anti-cancer properties.

1. Abortifacient: abortion causing.
2. Antioxidant: Neutralize the oxidant effect of free radicals and other substances.
3. Analgesic: Acting to relieve pain.
4. Antiseptic: Capable of preventing infection by inhibiting the growth of infectious agents.
5. Antispasmodic: Used to relieve spasm of involuntary muscle.
6. Carminative: Preventing the formation or causing the expulsion of flatulence.
7. Depurative: Purifying agent.
8. Diaphoretic: Promote sweating.
9. Digestive: Digestant.
10. Diuretic: Promoting excretion of urine/agent that increases the amount of urine excreted.
11. Emmenagogue: Stimulates or increases menstrual flow.
12. Expectorant: Promotes the secretion of sputum by the air passages, used to treat coughs.
13. Stimulant: Raises levels of physiological or nervous activity in the body.
14. Tonic: Restore or improve health or well-being.

Medicinal Uses of Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)

Lemongrass is an Indian plant. It is used in treatment of many digestive diseases such as abdominal pain, cramps colic, vomiting, gas, cholera, indigestion etc. It stimulates appetite and digestion but does not increase Pitta. It has carminative action and gives relief in pain due to gas. It directs the flow of Vata (wind) downwards.

1. Due to expectorant and diaphoretic properties, it is effective in reducing fever by inducing sweating. It is also used in malarial fever.
2. It helps to stimulate menstruation and gives relief in pain during menses. It has galactagogue action and improves milk production.
3. Intake of Lemongrass tea, helps to improve appetite and digestion. This helps to gain weight. This also reduces phlegm and fever. It is a tonic for uterus.
4. The essential oil is used externally on sprain, gout, joint pain, lumbago, myalgia, chronic rheumatism and similar other ailments.
5. It is applied topically on athlete's foot (tinea pedia), ring worms and other fungal infections of skin.

Dosage of Cymbopogon citratus

• The dried powder of plant is taken in dose of 3-9 grams.
• Contraindications, Interactions, Side-effects and Warnings Cymbopogon citratus
• This herb is very safe to take.
• It has abortifacient action. The rhizome of plant is boiled and taken to cause miscarriage.
• Intake of herb in high amount (10-15grams) can cause upset stomach and diarrhea.
• It has emmenagogue action and stimulates menstruation.

Common Yarrow, is a powerful healing herb. The Latin name of the plant is Achillea millefolium and theword Achillea, is derived from the legend of Greek hero Achilles who healed the wounds of his fellow soldiers with yarrow. He learned the use of yarrow for healing wounds from the centaur Khiron / Chiron before the siege of Troy, and he taught this science to his friend Patroclus. Millefolium means "a thousand leaves," and refers to yarrow's finely cut foliage. Yarrow was used in ancient Greece and Rome for medicinal purpose and to drive out the evils from the body of possessed.

Yarrow is extremely useful in respiratory ailments such as catarrhs, cold and cough. It increases sweating and helps to lower the body temperature. Yarrow opensthepores of body. It is also used in influenza, nervousdebility and as a tonic. It is an astringent that stops internal or external bleeding. It is great promoter of sweating and circulation. It is used in liver and chest complaints, retention of urine, amenorrhea, inflammatory conditions and as an antidote for scorpion stings.

German Commission E has approved the use of Yarrow in treatment of loss of appetite, dyspeptic complaints and liver/gallbladder issues.

General Information

Yarrow is a perennial, medium-sized, stoloniferous, slightly floccose-pilose, feathery bitter aromatic plant. It has a rough and angular stem. It reaches upto height of 1-2 foot. Leaves are green or greyish-green, faintly pubescent on the upper surface and more pubescent on the lower surface, 2–3 pinnately divided with linear lobes and a finely pointed whitish tip, alternate, clustered at the base of the stem. They are cut into very fine segments. Floweringheads (capitula) in a flat-topped corymb (3–5 cm in diameter), small, pedunculate, varying in colour from white to pink, magenta and red; involucral bracts in few rows, the outer somewhat shorter than the inner, with a scarious margin. Outer florets in each capitulum usually 5, female, ligulate with more or less 3-dentate, patent ligules; inner florets hermaphrodite, 5-lobed, with compressed corolla tube and a receptacle scale at the base. Ray flowers are white, sometimes pink. Fruit a compressed achene, oblong or obovate, without pappus.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Yarrow is Achillea millefolium. It belongs to plant family Asteraceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
• Subclass: Asteridae
• Order: Asterales
• Family: Asteraceae – Aster family
• Genus: Achillea L. – yarrow P
• Species: Achillea millefolium L. – common yarrow

Synonym

Achillea lanulosa Nutt

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Whole plant, Flower heads

Plant type: herb

Geographical distribution: Native to Asia, Europe and North America. Now widely distributed and cultivated in the temperate regions of the world. In India, it is found in Himalayas from Kashmir to Kumaun at the altitude of 1050-3600 meter. It is found growing wild in temperate regions of Europe and United States.

Habitat: Very common in Pasture and meadow lands of Europe and America.

Main Uses: As food, medicine and ornamental plant.

Edibility: Leaves are edible and tastes bitter.

Contraindications: Known allergy, pregnancy, breast feeding, gall bladder disease, ulcers, bile duct blockage

Safety profile in pregnancy: It affects hormones in body and may stimulate uterus. Therefore it is UNSAFE to use this herb in pregnancy.

Overall clinical safety: The medicinal use of yarrow can be considered safe. Only the reported hypersensitivity reactions may present a risk.

Few medicines containing Yarrow

1. Himalaya Bonnisan
2. Himalaya Liv 52
3. Himalaya Geriforte
4. Arq Brinjasif
5. Arq Maullehem Mako Kasni wala

Vernacular names / Synonyms

1. Scientific name: Achillea millefolium. N.O. Compositae
2. English: Milfoil, Nosebleed, Thousand-leaf, Old Man's Pepper, Knight's Milfoil, Soldier's Woundwort, Devil's Plaything, Blood wort, Hemming and Sewing, Staunch weed, Carpenter's Weed, Thousand Seal, Sanguinary
3. Unani: Biranjaasif
4. Folk name in India: Gandana, Rojmari
5. Arabic: Al-Biranjaasf
6. Persian: Biranjaasp, Palangasp, Buye-rnaaderaan

Constituents of Achillea millefolium

Over 120 compounds have been found in Common Yarrow. Some of them are given below:

• Glycoalkaloid (achilleine)
• Flavonoids (luteolin, apigenin, kaempferol, quercitrin)
• Volatile oil 0.2–1.0% (containing cineol, azulene, eugnol, pinene, thujone, camphor, camphene, sabinene, achillin)
• Tannins, aconitic and isovalerianic acids
• Resins, tannins, salicylic acid and coumarins

Action of important phytochemicals:

1. Tannin, terpineol and cineole: antiseptic
2. achillein and achilletin are coagulants: coagulants
3. azulene, chamazulene, camphor, eugenol, quercetin, rutin and salicilic acid: anti-inflammatory, analgesic and demulcent

Ayurvedic Properties and Action

Yarrow is not indigenous to India and its description is not found in ancient classical Ayurvedic texts. Here, it is mainly used in preparation of Unani medicines. Yarrow is astringent, bitter, and pungent in taste (Rasa) pungent after digestion (Vipaka), and is warming in effect (Virya).

• Rasa (taste on tongue): Kashaya (Astringent).Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter)
• Guna (Pharmacological Action): Guru (Heavy)
• Virya (Action): Shita (Cooling)
• Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Katu (Pungent)

Unani Properties of Brinjasif / Biranjasif

• Dafe Huma (Antipyretic): Reduce the temperature.
• Mufatteh (Deobstruent): Remove the obstruction in form of thick or sticky secretion or any other form.
• Mulattiff (Demulcent): Break the matter into pieces and make humor more liquid by their mild hotness.
• Munzij Sauda (Melancholic concoctive): Act on humor melanchole and prepare it for elimination.
• Muhallil-e-Auram (antiinflammatory): Reduces swelling.
• Mudir-e-Bol-wo-Haiz (diuretic & emmenagogue): Increases urination and blood flow to pelvic.
• Musakkin-e-Alam (analgesic): Gives relief in pain.
• Muqawwi-e-Dimagh (brain tonic): Tonic for brain.
• Musaffi Khoon (blood purifier): Purifies blood.
• Habise-Dam (haemostatic): Causes bleeding to stop.
• Hazim (carminative): Relieving flatulence.

Important Medicinal Properties

Achillea millefolium is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it. For example, this herb has emmenagogue and abortifacient action and therefore it is unsafe to take Yarrow during pregnancy.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

1. Abortifacient: Causes abortion.
2. Astringents: Constrict tissues; styptic.
3. Antibacterial: Active against bacteria.
4. Antispasmodic: Relieve spasm of involuntary muscle.
5. Antimicrobial: Active against microbes.
6. Anti-inflammatory: Reducing inflammation by acting on body mechanisms.
7. Cholagogue: Bile flow stimulant
8. Diuretic: Promoting excretion of urine/agent that increases the amount of urine excreted.
9. Digestive: Digestant.
10. Diaphoretic: Promote sweating.
11. Expectorant: Promotes the secretion of sputum by the air passages, used to treat coughs.
12. Styptic: Capable of causing bleeding to stop when it is applied to a wound.
13. Tonic: Restore or improve health or well-being.
14. Wound healing: Heals the wound.

Main Indications of Yarrow

1. Colds, catarrh
2. Fever, influenza
3. Indigestion
4. Inflammation of the bowel, IBS
5. Loss of appetite
6. Liver and Gallbladder complaints
7. Menstrual disorders, heavy menstrual bleeding, fibroid tumours, menopausal hot flushes
8. Ulcers, piles
9. Varicose veins
10. Wounds

Healing Benefits of Common Yarrow

Yarrow is excellent herb for digestive, respiratory, circulatory and gynecological disorders.

1. Digestive System

• Yarrow improves appetite, digestion and assimilation. It is a bitter digestive tonic.
• Yarrow gives relief in colic, indigestion and flatulence. It is recognized for its relaxant property on smooth muscles, thus may aide with the relief of stomach cramps. It protects gut and reduces swelling and helps in ulcers, gastritis and colitis.
• It is effective in treating bile, liver, gall bladder and stomach complaints. It has antispasmodic action and helps to relax the muscles of the digestive tract.
• Yarrow is effective for hepatitis as it protects the liver from poisons. It is a liver cleanser. It may assist in the alleviation of fullness and constipation.

2. Gynecological Problems

• Yarrow balances hormones and helps to flush excess estrogen.
• It regulates the periods. As an antispasmodic, it is helpful in menstrual cramps and also in inflammation of the uterus.

3. Respiratory System

Yarrow is very effective in curing cough, cold, congestion, fever and flu. It opens the pores of body and increases sweating. This helps to bring down the temperature. Yarrow removes congestion.

4. Circulatory system

Internal use of Yarrow, improves circulation and is useful in varicose veins. It improves sweating and reduces fever. It detoxifies blood. It promotes tissue repair and blood circulation. Yaroow lowers high blood pressure.

5. Other Benefits

Yarrow is diuretic and increases passing of urine. It cleanses the kidneys.

It calms nervous system and cures nervous weakness. It has wound healing properties. It stops the both internal and external bleeding. It is used for internal hemorrhages of the lung, uterus, anus, bladder, nose, hemorrhoids.

Medicinal Uses of Achillea millefolium (Common Yarrow)

1. Common yarrow is mainly used in treatment of acute catarrh, coryza, cold, cough, fever and influenza. The infusion or decoction of plant/flowers, is used as a medicine in influenza, fever, cold, catarrh and cough.
2. For fever, the decoction of flower heads or of the whole plant is prescribed. It stimulates diaphoresis and promotes perspiration.
3. The whole plant is also used as a liver tonic. It is one of the ingredient of well-known and scientifically proven liver tonic, Himalaya's Liv 52.
4. The capsules prepared from yarrow are prescribed for restoring hormonal balance in women.
5. In varicosity and rheumatism, the yarrow tea can be used both internally and externally.
6. In toothache, the leaves of plant are chewed.
7. Externally, it is used to stop bleeding. The ointment prepared from the herb is used on burns, varicose veins, ulcer, fistula and wounds. The infusion of plant is used as vaginal douche, an eyewash, and a skin lotion.

Dosage of Achillea millefolium

4.5 g of cut herb (flowering top) per day, or 3.0 g cut flowers for teas (infusions) and other preparations.

Infusion: Put 1–2 g of dried yarrow leaves and flowers in 150 ml boiling water. Steep for 10–15 minutes. Strain and sweeten with honey. This can be taken three times daily between meals.

Succus (pressed juice from fresh herb): 5 ml (1 teaspoon), three times daily between meals.

Fluid extract 1:1 (g/ml): 1–2 ml, three times daily between meals.

Tincture (1:5 g/ml): 5 ml, three times daily between meals.

External sitz bath: 100 g per 20 litres of warm or hot water.

Contraindications, Interactions, Side-effects and Warnings Achillea millefolium

1. Long term use can increase skin's photosensitivity.
2. It can cause allergic reactions (rhinitis, asthma and urticaria symptoms). People who are allergic to yarrow and other Compositae / Asteraceae plants (arnica, chamomile flowers or marigold), should not use it.
3. It must not be used in pregnancy. It is reputed to be an abortifacient and to affect the menstrual cycle, and the volatile oil contains trace amounts (0.3%) of the abortifacient principle thujone. Excessive use should be avoided during lactation.
4. It turns urine dark brown but it is not harmful.
5. The use in children under 12 years of age has not been established due to lack of adequate data.
6. In lab study, alcohol extract stopped the production of sperms in mice.
7. If the symptoms worsen during the use of the medicinal product, a doctor or a qualified health care practitioner should be consulted.
8. It stimulates secretion of bile and hence may increase the pain of gallbladder stones.
9. It is contraindicated in hypersensitivity to the plant, pregnancy, Gastric and duodenal ulcer, occlusion of the bile duct and gallbladder disease.
10. Excessive doses may interfere with or augment anticoagulant, blood pressure, diuretic, and sedative medications.

Guarana, Pasta Guarana or Brazilian cocoa is a South American woody climber belonging to Soap-nut or Soapberry family. Soap nut family contains a number of economic plants such as Litchi (Litchi chinensis), soap-nut trees (Sapindus mukotossi), Sugar Maple (Acer saccharinum) and many other plants distributed thoughout the tropical and subtropical regions of world.

Guarana is a caffeine rich fruit. The seeds contains about 2.5-7% caffeine (twice the coffee beans) and used to make sports and energy drinks. The concoctions of seeds is also used as aphrodisisac to boost libido. Guarana seeds are collected from wild or cultivated plants. They are roasted to remove the seed coat. Kernels are separated from the shell, broken and made into a paste with water and dried for further use. Guarana is sold as sticks, powder, capsules and extracts.

Due to presence of caffeine, it is central nervous system CNS stimulant and increases the activity in the brain, and causes wakefulness and mental alertness. In Western coutries, Guaraná, is most commonly used in high-energy foods and drinks and dietary supplements.

General Information

Paullinia cupana is a scandent shrub or woody liana up to 5 m long with tendrils.

Stems are obtusely pentagonal, puberulent, with stem cross section exhibiting a single vascular cylinder. Leaves are pinnately 5-foliolate, alternate, chartaceous. Its minute stipules are deltoid, 2-3 mm long, tomentulose, persistent. Petiole and rachis are unwinged, petiole 11-20 cm long and rachis 7-12.5 cm long. The leaflet blades of P. cupana are elliptic or oblong-elliptic, 11 to 30 x 5.7 to 11 cm. The base of distal leaflet is cuneate or attenuate, acute, and obtuse to sub rounded on lateral leaflet. The apex narrows into an acute broad apiculum with rounded tip, and its margins are grossly crenate or sinuate dentate with a glandular tooth. The adaxial surface is glabrous, while the abaxial surface is sparsely, minutely pubescent, having microscopic scurfylike papillae. The tertiary venation is slightly sub-clathrate.

Inflorescences are thyrses, axillary, racemiform, solitary, puberulent, with cincinni sessile, 5-8-flowered. Flowers are unisexual, zygomorphic. The calyx has 5 green sepals, possessing minute glandular hair along the margin. Outer sepals are 2.5-3.2 mm long, while the inner sepals are about 4 mm long, tomentulose. The corolla has 4 white petals, oblong, 4-5.5 mm long., bearing a hoodshaped appendage.

Fruits are pear shaped, orange-red, and 3 sided with three-celled capsules, partially open when ripe, revealing 1-3 black or greenish seeds which are covered at the base with a white aril.

There are 2 varieties of species availabale, P. cupana and P. sorbilis. Cupana differs from var. sorbilis in that it has no tendrils, its folioles are more strongly lobed and its flowers and fruit are bigger.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Guarana is Paullinia cupana. It belongs to plant family Sapindaceae. The name Guarana comes from Guaranis, a tribe of South American Indians and the genus name, Paullinia was taken from a German medical botanist, C.F. Paullini, who 'discovered' the plant. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
• Subclass: Rosidae
• Order: Sapindales
• Family: Sapindaceae – Soapberry family
• Genus: Paullinia L. P
• Species: Paullinia cupana Kunth – guarana

Synonym

Paullinia sorbilis

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Roasted seeds

Plant type: Scandent shrub / woody evergreen climbing plant

Distribution: Amazon Basin in Brazil, Colombia, Uruguay, Venezuela

Habitat: tropical

Main use: For making soft drinks, as medicine

Taken as: Tablets, Drinks

Vernacular Names / Synonyms

1. Scientific name: Paullinia cupana H. B. & K
2. English: Brazilian cocoa, Guarana
3. Brazil: Guarana, Guarana sipo, Guarana uva
4. Dutch: Guarana
5. German: Guarana
6. Peru: Cupana
7. Venezuela: Cupana

Constituents of Paullinia cupana

Guarana contains 2.5–7.0% of caffeine and about 12% tannins.

High amounts of methylxanthines, saponins, starch, polysaccharides, pigments, fats and choline are present in seeds.

Basic composition of Guaraná beans

1. Caffeine 4%
2. Catechutannic acid 5%
3. Catechic acid 0.6%
4. Tannins 12%
5. Starch 30%
6. Protein 15%
7. Oil 0.16%
8. Calcium 0.08%
9. Phosphorus 0.01%
10. Magnesium 0.05%
11. Kalium 0.27%

Essential oil: The essential oil isolated from powdered seeds contain 2 methylbenzenes, a cyclic monoterpene, 2 cyclic sesquiterpene hydrocarbons, 2 methoxyphenylpropenes and 2 alkylphenol derivatives.

Important Medicinal Properties

Paullinia cupana is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

1. Analgesic: Relieve pain
2. Anti-aggregant: Decrease platelet aggregation and inhibit thrombus formation. Such medicines are effective in the arterial circulation, where anticoagulants have little effect.
3. Anti-inflammatory: Reduce inflammation.
4. Aphrodisiac: Stimulates sexual desire.
5. Central nervous system (CNS) stimulant: speeds up physical and mental processes.
6. Diuretic: Causes increased passing of urine.
7. Immunostimulant: Increase motility of the gastrointestinal smooth muscle.
8. Stimulant: Temporarily increase alertness and energy.
9. Thermogenic: Increase the heat in the body.
10. Tonic: Restore, tone and invigorate systems in the body.

Medicinal Uses of Paullinia cupana (Guarana)

Guarana contains 2.5–7.0% of caffeine and has all the effects of caffeine. It is used as a popular remedy for weight loss, loose motion and fatigue. It prevents platelet aggregation. It stimulates gastric acid secreation and thus helps in Dyspepsia. Guarana has diuretic effect which helps the body to get rid water retention. It gives relief in pain and swelling in body. Its analgesic effect is comparable to aspirin. It is used as stimulant, astringent, antipyretic, antineuralgic, antidiarrhoeal and anti-influenza agent.

Guarana is used traditionally in treatment of many disorders including:

1. Boosting energy and alertness
2. Drowsiness
3. Diarrhea
4. Fatigue
5. Headache, Migraine
6. Increasing stamina and libido
7. Neuralgia (intermittent pain along the course of a nerve, especially in the head or face)
8. Obesity
9. Pain
10. Paralysis
11. Urinary tract infections
12. Water Retention

Dosage of Paullinia cupana

• Dried herb is given in dose of 500 mg to 1 gram. The tea prepared from the seeds can be taken three times a day.
• Guarana extract is taken in dose of 200-800 mg before meals, 2-3 times a day.
• The upper limit of Guarana extract is 3 grams. Do not exceed this amount.

Contraindications, Interactions, Side-effects and Warnings Paullinia cupana

1. Hazards and/or side effects not known for proper therapeutic dosages.
2. It is a CNS-stimulant.
3. It should not be used in excess or for longer duration.
4. It contains Caffeine which causes stimulation of vasoconstrictors, thus elevating the blood pressure and increased blood flow. It can produce psychological dependence.
5. Long-term use can may decreased fertility.
6. It may cause nervousness, anxiety, trembling, insomnia, palpitations, urinary frequency, tachycardia, arrhythmias, hyperactivity and irritability.
7. It may interact with CNS stimulants, decongestants, methylphenidate, dextroamphetamine, beta2agonists, contraceptive pills, diabetes therapy, CNS depressants, and theophylline.
8. Avoid its use in glaucoma.
9. This is contraindicated in gastric disease, ulcers, cardiac disease, depression, anxiety, pregnancy and breastfeeding and in children.

Aristolochia indica is a medicinal plant. It is used in India to induce vomiting and to treat poisons, intestinal parasite, swelling, menstrual irregularities, dropsy, low appetite, ulcers and fever. The roots of plant are used as antidote in scorpion sting, bites of poisonous insects and snake bite. This plant is used both internally and externally. For white leprosy, the roots are rubbed with honey. The plant possesses emmenagogue, abortifacient, anti-spermatogenic, anti-fertility, anti-arthritic, anti-inflammatory, antiperiodic, diuretic and anti-bilious properties. The leaves of plant are applied externally in skin diseases.

By Yercaud-elango (Own work) [CC BY-SA 4.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

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General Information

Aristolochia indica is a glabrous, shrubby or herbaceous perennial plant with woody root stock and long, slender, grooved, glabrous branches.

The leaves are variable, fiddle shaped tolinear. They are 2 – 4 inches long, 3-5 nerved at the base. It is glabrous with a slightly undulate margin.

The shape and appearance of flower has close resemblance to a cobra's hood.

The flower is pale green on the outer surface. The rim of the moth is dark purple in colour. Flowers bloom between June and October. Flowers occur in axillary racemes with few flowers. Bracts small, perianth 1-1.5 inches long with a glabrous inflated, lobed base, which is suddenly narrowed, into a cylindrical tube about 0.5 inches long. It terminates in a funnel shaped mouth.

Fruits are 6 valved dehiscent, ribbed capsule, 1.5 – 2 inches long. Seeds are flat triangular and winged all around.

Root is considerably long, cylindrical, a few irregularly bent; 2-10 mm in diameter. Surface is almost smooth with fine longitudinal wrinkles and transverse cracks. External surface is light greyish-brown, inner whitish. Odour is camphoraceous. The taste is strongly bitter.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of is Aristolochia indica. It belongs to plant family Aristolochiaceae. The name is derived from Greek words, aristo (best) and lochia (delivery). The species name indica, indicates it is indigenous to India.

Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

1. Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
2. Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
3. Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
4. Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
5. Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
6. Subclass: Magnoliidae
7. Order: Aristolochiales
8. Family: Aristolochiaceae – Birthwort family
9. Genus: Aristolochia L. – dutchman's pipe
10. Species: Aristolochia indica - Indian Birthwort
11. Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Roots and rhizomes, stem, leaves, seeds
12. Plant type: Climber
13. Distribution: Throughout the low hills and plains of India from Nepal to the south of Konkan. Distributed in tropical, subtropical, and Mediterranean countries.
14. Habitat: Dry and deciduous forests.
15. Flowering: June to October
16. Fruiting: November to March
17. Safety profile in pregnancy: UNSAFE, it has oxytocic, abortifacient and emmenagogue action. It causes abortion.

Vernacular Names / Synonyms

• Scientific name: Aristolochia indica
• Sanskrit: Ahigandha, Arkamula, Garuda, Ishvara, Ishvari, Nakuieshtha, Nakuli, Sunanda, Rudrajata, Ishwari, Naakuli, Arkmuula, Gandhnakuli, Nagadamani
• Siddha: Adagam
• Hindi: Isharmul, Hooka bel
• Assamese: Jarvande
• Bengali: Ishormul, Isheri
• English: Indian Birthwort, Snake root
• Sinhalese: Sapsanda
• Gujarati: Sapsan, Ruhimula, Iswarimool
• Marathi: Sapasan
• Malayalam: Garudakkoti, Garudakkodi, Karaleyan, Cheriya arayan
• Kannada: Isvaberusa, Ishwari Beru, Toppalu
• Konkan: Sapsikaddula
• Oriya: Gopikaron
• Tamil: Adagam, Isadesatti, Isura, Isuramuli, lyavari, Karudakkodi, Kirttikkodi, Neya, Perumarindu, Perumaruntu, Perunkilangu, Sarsugadi, Talaichuruli
• Telugu: Ishveraveru, Esvaraveru
• Urdu: Zarawand Hindi
• Arabic: Zaravande-hindi
• Trade name: Serpent root plant, Indian birth wort

Chinese Aristolochia

Many plants of genus Aristolochia are used as medicine in traditional Chinese medicine. These plants are used interchangeably.

• Aristolochia fangchi (Root) Guang Fang Ji
• Aristolochia manshuriensis (Stem) Guan Mu Tong
• Aristolochia contorta (fruit), Aristolochia debilis (Fruit) Ma Dou Ling
• Aristolochia contorta (Herb), Aristolochia debilis (Herb) Tian Xian Teng
• Aristolochia debilis (Root) Qing Mu Xiang

Constituents of Aristolochia indica

The plant contain aromatic oil (0.5%), coloring material and an alkaloid (aristolochine 0.05-0.07%).

• Aristolochic acid (0.06-0.07%), glycosides and steroids are present in rhizome.
• Aristolochic acids
• Aristolochic acids are a family of carcinogenic, mutagenic, and nephrotoxic compounds commonly found in the birthwort family of plants. It functions as a phospholipase A2 inhibitor, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and bactericidal agent. Aristolochic acid is composed of a 1:1 mixture of two forms, Aristolochic acid I and Aristolochic acid II.

Aristolochic acid I

• IUPAC Systematic Name: 8-Methoxy-6-nitronaphtho[2,1-g][1,3]benzodioxole-5-carboxylic acid
• Chemical formula: C17H11NO7
• Relative molecular mass: 341.27

Aristolochic acid II

• IUPAC Systematic Name: 6-Nitronaphtho[2,1-g][1,3]benzodioxole-5-carboxylic acid
• Chemical formula: C16H9NO6
• Relative molecular mass: 311.25

Aristolochic acid, tested for carcinogenicity in several studies. A study done in mice, and another in rabbits, showed internal administration of this compound induced tumours at multiple sites in body of animals.

The oral administration of aristolochic acid to rats caused a dose- and time-dependent tumour response. Exposure to 50 mg/kg body weight aristolochic acid I for 3 days resulted in neoplastic lesions of the kidney after 6 months.

Rats administered with lower doses over a longer period (1-10  mg/kg body weight for 3–6 months or 0.1 mg/kg body weight for 12 months) developed a variety of benign or malignant tumours, including those of the forestomach, kidney, renal pelvis, urinary bladder, ear duct, thymus, small intestine, and pancreas. Single cases of haematopoietic system, lung, mammary gland, and peritoneal tumours were also reported.

Injecting, 10 mg/kg bodyweight aristolochic acid into rats for 35  daysinduced a low incidence of urothelial carcinomas and fibrohistiocytic sarcomas at the injection site.

Rabbits given intraperitoneal injections of aristolochic acid at 0.1 mg/kg body weight for 17-21 months developed tumours of the kidney, ureter, and of the peritoneal cavity.

Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns against use of herbs containing Aristolochic acid due to their ill-effects on kidneys. It has been associated with permanent kidney damage and kidney failure. Few people have developed certain types of cancers, most often occurring in the urinary tract.

In May 2000, FDA alerted health care professionals and the dietary supplement industry of two patients in the United Kingdom who had experienced serious, permanent kidney damage following the use of botanical products containing aristolochic acid. These cases, along with the ones previously reported from Belgium and France, resulted in FDA imposing an import alert to detain botanical ingredients that are either labeled as "Aristolochia" or, for other reasons, are suspected to contain aristolochic acid.

FDA has advised consumers to stop using any products that may likely contain aristolochic acid.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action

This plant is known by many names in Ayurveda, such as Ishwari, Nakuli, Iswarimoolam, Garudi, Sunanda and Arkamula. It is astringent, bitter and pungent in taste (Rasa), pungent after digestion (Vipaka), and is hot in effect (Virya).

• It is used in Ayurveda for treatment of Visha (poison).
• Rasa (taste on tongue): Kashaya (Astringent), Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter)
• Guna (Pharmacological Action): Laghu (Light), Ruksha (Dry)
• Virya (Action): Shita (Cooling), Ushna (Heating)
• Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Katu (Pungent)

It is an Ushna Virya herb. Ushna Virya or hot potency herb, subdues Vata (Wind) and Kapha (Mucus) and increases Pitta (Bile). It has property of digestion, vomiting and purging, and gives feeling of lightness. It is considered bad for sperms and fetus.

Karma / Action

• Kaphavatashamaka (Pacifies Kapha and Vata)
• Shothahara (Reduces swelling)
• Grahabadhaghna (Destroys pregnancy)

Important Formulations

1. Mahavishagarbha Taila (Massage Oil for Rheumatic complaints)
2. Gorochandi Gutika

Medicinal Uses of Aristolochia indica

In Ayurveda, the root bark of plant is used as antidote for all types of poisons (snake poison, spider poison, scorpion stings etc.).

The tribal people are using this plant from ancient times to treat cobra poison and scorpion stings. The bruised roots are applied to bites of centipedes and scorpion stings. 1.5 inch root is smashed and placed under the tongue for the neutralization of snake venom. In one study, ethanolic extract of plant exhibited protective effect against the red scorpion venom and showed 50% survival benefits in mice.

1. The plant is administered in low doses to treat low appetite, menstrual disorders and to remove toxins from blood.
2. The powdered root with honey is given for dropsy, leukoderma, tonsillitis and chronic dyspepsia.
3. For fever, indigestion, and digestive disorders, one pinch of root powder is taken with warm water.
4. The fresh leaves ground with water are applied in acute and chronic rheumatism.
5. For swelling, the seed paste is applied externally.
6. For headaches, the paste of leaves is mixed with turmeric and applied on forehead, twice a day.
7. For leucoderma, skin diseases, wounds and swelling the paste of leaves is applied topically on affected areas.

Contraindications, Interactions, Side-effects and Warnings Aristolochia indica

1. This plant is included in list of poisonous plants found in India.
2. In large doses the herb acts as a local irritant and provokes nausea, griping pains in the bowels, pain in anus and vomiting. In higher doses, it may prove lethal.
3. This plant contains Aristolochic acid.

In experimental animals, high doses of aristolochic acids administered either orally or intravenously caused severe necrosis of the renal tubules, atrophy of the spleen and thymus, and ulceration of the forestomach, followed by hyperplasia and hyperkeratosis of the squamous epithelium.

Rosemary is an important aromatic, warming, medicinal herb having carminative, antidepressant, antispasmodic, rubefacient, antimicrobial, emmenagogue, anti-inflammatory, carcinogen blocker, liver detoxifier, anti-rheumatic and abortifacient properties. It is used for medicinal, culinary, and cosmetic virtues in Egypt, Mesopotamia, China and Europe since ancient times.

The terminal shoots and leaves of plant are used as spice. The whole plant is valued as functional food. It is a bitter and pungent in taste and hot in potency. It reduces phlegm and wind in body but increases bile. Medicinally, Rosemary plant is used in the form of decoction, infusion (tea), extract for digestive disorders, vaginitis, leucorrhoea, respiratory diseases, varicose vein, heart pain, inflammation and dizziness.

Rosemary is also believed to have magical powers. People place rosemary sprigs under the pillow to ward off evil spirits and nightmares. In ancient times, it was believed that burning rosemary leaves and twigs would scare away evil spirits and disinfect the surroundings. The aroma of plant is believed to have anti-ageing effect. Rosemary is also used as emblem of love, remembrance and friendship.

General Information

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is dense, evergreen, hardy, perennial aromatic herb/shrub found in Mediterranean region. It reaches height of 90–200 cm. Rosemary leaves have a tea like fragrance and a pungent, slightly bitter taste.

Leaves of plant are small (2–4 cm) pointed, sticky, hairy, linear, non-petiolate, coriaceous, with revolute margins and resinous. Upper surface of leaf is dark green and whitish underside. The stem is densely ramified, square and woody. Branches are rigid with fissured bark. Younger shoots are grey-white.

Flowers are small and usually hermaphrodite. They are pale blue, pale violet or white and grow in leaf axis. They appear in cymose inflorescence. Seeds of plant are very small and black in colour.

The plant is propagated by seeds and cuttings. Cutting from the plant (about 10-15cm) are treated with growth hormones for better rooting.

Rosemary is not an Indian plant. It was introduced in India during the 19th century by The British. As the plant requires Mediterranean type of climate with mild summer (temp below 30°C) and frost free winter, it is cultivated mainly in Nilgiris in south India. The plant prefers well drained sandy loam soil. The planting is done during cooler months. The plant can also be cultivated in Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Arunachala Pradesh. Though the plant propagates through both seeds and cutting but it is preferable to grow new plants from the cutting after treating with rooting hormones as the germination rate of seeds is poor and late. Also the growth rate of such seedlings is not good.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Rosemary is Rosmarinus officinalis. It belongs to plant family Lamiaceae.

Lamiaceae (formerly called Labiatae) is the mint family of flowering plants, with 236 genera and more than 7,000 species. The family is particularly important for herb plants useful for flavor, fragrance, or medicinal properties. Few plants belonging to Lamiaceae are lavender (Lavandula officinalis), lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis), Japanese mint (Mentha arvensis), Bergamot (Mentha citrata), Peppermint (Mentha piperita), Spearmint, garden mint (Mentha spicata), Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum) and Oregano (Origanum vulgare).

The word rosemary is derived from the Latin word ros=dew, and marinus= of the sea.

Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
• Subclass: Asteridae
• Order: Lamiales
• Family: Lamiaceae ⁄ Labiatae – Mint family
• Genus: Rosmarinus L. – rosemary
• Species: Rosmarinus officinalis L. – rosemary
• Synonyms :Rosmarinus officinalis L. var. prostratus hort.
• Plant type: Perennial, evergreen, scented sub-shrub
• Native to: Mediterranean region
• Propagation: Seeds and cuttings
• Soil Required: Light, warm, dry, well-drained soil of pH 6.5–7.0 with plenty of lime content
• Distribution: Cultivated in Algeria, China, France, Hungary, Italy, the Middle East, Morocco, Portugal, Russia, Romania, Serbia, Spain, Tunisia, Turkey, the USA.
• In India, it is grown in lesser extent in Nilgiri Hills.
• Habitat: Native to the Mediterranean region, it has been naturalized throughout Europe and temperate America and widely grown in gardens in the warmer parts of the U.S. and in Great Britain.

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Leaves, flowering tops, flowers, twigs and Essential oil

Grown as: crop and indoor plant

Essential oil obtained from: Leaves, flowering tops and twigs

Uses of Essential Oil: As a medicine, in aromatherapy and making of perfumes and flavor

Safety Profile in Pregnancy: Unsafe, do not use in pregnancy.

Drug interactions: None

Other Uses: Spice and food flavoring, consumed internally as a tea, or externally as an astringent, Herbal pesticide

Vernacular Names / Synonyms

• Scientific name: Rosmarinus officinalis
• English: Rosemary
• Folk: Rusmari

Constituents of Rosmarinus officinalis

The active ingredients of leaves are 1- 2% essential oil, tannic acid, nicotinic acid, saponins, resin and bitter materials.

• Essential Oil
• Flavonoids
• Phenolic Acids
• Tannins
• Resins

The chief constituents of rosemary oil are camphor (5–31%), 1,8-cineol (15–55%), α-pinene (9–26%), borneol (1.5–5.0%), camphene (2.5–12.0%), β-pinene (2.0–9.0%), limonene (1.5–5.0%), verbenone (2.2–11.1%), β-caryophyllene (1.8–5.1%) and myrcene (0.9–4.5%)

Rosemary Essential oil

The oil is extracted from the leaves, flowering tops and twigs of Rosemary plant using steam or water distillation. Oil content of dried leaves (3%) is more than that of fresh leaves (1%). It is clear, mobile, colorless to pale yellow liquid.

About 90% of oil is collected in first 60 minutes of distillation. It is further distillated for next one hour to extract rest of the oil.

Uses of Rosemary Oil

Rosemary Oil has anti-inflammatory, astringent, antiseptic, antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. It is used in treatment for scabies and lice. In case of swelling, the oil is diluted and rubbed on skin. Few drops of oil are added to bath tub to have a refreshing bath.

Rosemary Oil is considered excellent for hair care. It is useful in dandruff and for promoting hair growth. It also controls greasy hair. Rubbing few drops on scalp controls premature hair fall and helps in alopecia. Rosemary oil, in combination with the essential oil from thyme, lavender and cedar wood, showed improvement in hair growth by 44% after 7 months of treatment for alopecia areata. The oils are massaged into the scalp for a minimum of 2 minutes daily for seven months.

1. It is rubbed into the temples to relieve stress, tension and headaches.
2. It is applied topically on cuts, wounds, sores, chilblains, scalds and burns.
3. It is also used in preparation of soaps, shampoos and hair conditioners, room fresheners, deodorants, perfumes, skin lotions, etc.

Important Medicinal Properties

Rosmarinus officinalis is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it. For example, Rosemary has emmenagogue and abortifacient properties. The aqueous extract of plant causes abortion. Therefore it must not be used during pregnancy.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

1. Abortifacient: Induces abortion.
2. Antioxidant: Neutralize the oxidant effect of free radicals and other substances.
3. Anti-cancer: Used against or tending to arrest or prevent cancer.
4. Anti-implantation: Prevents attachment of the fertilized egg to the uterine lining.
5. Antispasmodic: Used to relieve spasm of involuntary muscle.
6. Antimicrobial: Active against microbes.
7. Chemo preventive: Reverse, suppress, or prevent carcinogenic progression to invasive cancer.
8. Carminative: Preventing the formation or causing the expulsion of flatulence.
9. Cholagogue: Promotes the discharge of bile from the system, purging it downward.
10. Diaphoretic: Promote sweating.
11. Decongestant: Used to relieve nasal congestion.
12. Digestive: Digestant.
13. Emmenagogue: Stimulates or increases menstrual flow.
14. Nervine: Calm the nerves.

Main indications of Rosemary

Rosemary is used in the management of headache, menstrual disorders, nervous menstrual complaints, tiredness, defective memory, sprains, bruise, cold, cough, depression with general debility, sluggish appetite, cardiovascular deficiency and cloudy thinking. It increases concentration and memory by increasing blood flow to brain. Rosemary is warming in effect and gives relief in respiratory ailments and congestion. It supports better functioning of immune, digestive, respiratory, circulatory and nervous system. It strengthens the senses and elevates the mood.

1. Arthritis
2. Cough, colds and Flu
3. Fevers
4. Gastrointestinal Tract Infections
5. Gout
6. Headaches, Migraine
7. Stress
8. Liver Problems
9. Poor Memory and Concentration

Healing benefits of Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary)

Rosemary offers several health benefits. It is an edible plant and has positive effect on whole body. It is full of antioxidant activities. Rosemary has affinity to brain and nervous system and has been used for thousands of years to improve memory. It stimulates circulation of blood to the head, improving concentration and memory, easing headaches and migraine, and encourages hair growth.

1. Anticancer effect

Rosemary has anticancer activity due to presence of carnosol, carnosic acid, ursolic acid, befulinic acid, rosmaridiphenol and rosemanol. It works by preventing binding of carcinogen to body cells and also by increasing the intracellular accumulation of the common chemotherapy drugs and thus increasing their availability for action in body. For anticancer action, extract of whole plant should be used.

Research shows that colon, breast and lung cancer incidence was cut in half for animals ingesting rosemary.

2. Antidiabetic Effect

The infusion of dried rosemary leaves lowers the blood glucose level.

3. Urinary system

The decoction / infusion of Rosemary has diuretic effect. Its intake increases the passing of urine which helps to enhance the removal of wastes from the body.

4. Digestive system

Rosemary is a digester, cholagogue, and calms the stomach. It improves appetite and digestion. It increases flow of digestive juices. It has stimulating action on gallbladder and liver. It improves liver function and detoxifies it.

Due to carminative properties, Rosemary gives relief in flatulence and bloating.

Rosemary helps in better assimilation of nutrients. It is traditionally used in diseases of liver.

5. Nervous system

Rosemary is used to treat many common disorders of brain. It increases blood circulation to brain and supports better concentration, memory, alertness and clear thinking.

It relaxes the mind and helps in migraine nervousness, anxiety, exhaustion, lethargy, depression and insomnia.

6. Respiratory system

Rosemary is used since ancient times for sore throats, colds, flu and chest infections. It is an expectorant that dilutes nasal and respiratory mucus. Rosemary hot tea, reduces the phlegm and congestion. It has relaxant effects on smooth muscle to relieve spasm in the bronchial tubes and helping in difficult breathing and asthma.

Rosemary increases perspiration and helps in lowering body temperature in fevers.

7. Other Uses

The paste of leaves is applied on wounds due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties.

Rosemary has insect, moth, flies, mosquito repellent properties and is used in wardrobes to protect clothing.

Rosemary tea can be used as a douche for vaginal infections. This can also be used as a mouthwash for bleeding gums.

In case of bad breath, infection of gums or teeth, few fresh leaves of plant can be chewed.

The infusion of the plant with borax is used as a hair wash for preventing hair fall.

Dosage of Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosemary can be administered in the form of infusion, decoction, tinctures, powder, liquid or dry extract.

1. The daily dosage for oral use is 4–6 g of herb.
2. Infusion can be prepared by soaking 2–4 g in 150 ml water three times daily.
3. Rosemary Tincture (1:5, 70% ethanol) can be taken in dose of 3–8.5 ml daily.
4. The recommended dose for dry extract is 0.36–0.44 g, three times daily.
5. For external use, boil 50 g of herb in 1 liter of water and add to one full bath.
6. The oil is used for oral, external use and aromatherapy. The daily dosage for oral administration is 1 ml of essential oil. For external use, 6–10% of essential oil in semi-solid and liquid preparations is used.

How to Brew Rosemary Tea

Rosemary tea is very easy to make. It has been used as a therapy for all sorts of ailments, including headaches, indigestion, to relieve flatulence, stimulate the heart, induce sleep, and alleviate depression. It has an astringent and relaxant effect on uterus, relieves cramps and helps regulate periods. Externally, Rosemary Tea can be used as a hair rinse to stimulate hair follicles and also as vaginal douche. It can also be used as a mouthwash.

For preparing flower tea, 1 teaspoon of dried flowers or 3 teaspoons of fresh flowers are added to cup of boiling water. It is steep to taste. For rosemary leaf tea, soak 1/2 teaspoon of dried or fresh herb in one cup of boiling water for few minutes. Little lemon or honey can be added to enhance the taste.

Contraindications, Interactions, Side-effects and Warnings Rosmarinus officinalis

1. It is generally considered safe and does not produce any side-effect if taken in recommended doses.
2. It should only be taken for a few days at a time.
3. In some people allergic reaction such as skin irritation, dermatitis may occur.
4. It has anti-implantation properties.
5. It is contraindicated in cases of hypersensitivity or allergy to the plant material.
6. It should not be used in pregnancy due to abortifacient, emmenagogue, and uterotonic action.
7. Due to the lack of safety data, the use of the crude drug during breastfeeding is not recommended.
8. It should not be used by people suffering from epilepsy due to richness in camphor. As the camphor in the volatile oil may cause convulsions.
9. Rosemary oil should be used with caution in hypertension and insomnia.
10. Excess intake of rosemary can cause kidney irritation, gastrointestinal disturbances, coma, spasm, vomiting and, in some cases, pulmonary oedema.
11. Due to its irritant properties, the essential oil should not be used on the face or mucosa, and contact with the eyes should be avoided. After application of the essential oil, wash hands to avoid accidental contact with the face and eyes. As with all essential oils, do not exceed the recommended dose.
12. Due to the lack of safety data, administration of the crude drug to children under the age of 12 years is not recommended.
13. It can cause harmless red discoloration of the urine.

Ipomoea turpethum / Operculina turpethum is an ornamental and medicinal plant. It is commonly known as Indian Jalap, Trivrit, Turpeth and Nishoth. It has properties, biomedical action and chemical constituent similar to True Jalap which is a cathartic drug.

By J.M.Garg - Own work, GFDL, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=5706086

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Trivrit / Turpeth is used in Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani system of medicine for therapeutic purpose. The roots are thermogenic, purgative, carminative, anthelmintic, expectorant, antipyretic, hepatic, stimulant and are used in treatment of rheumatic and paralytic affections, myalgia (muscular pain), arthralgia (joint pain), pectoralgia (thorax pain), fevers, oedema, jaundice, hepato-splenomegaly, hepatitis, intoxication, abdominal tumors, ulcers, wounds, worm infestation obesity, pruritus, other skin disorders and constipation.

In Ayurveda, the roots of the plant are known as Trivrit, Tribhandi, Rechani, Nishotra, Kumbha, Kala, Shyama and Triputa. The fleshy roots of plant are collected, chopped and dried in sun for a day and then shade dried. The roots are ground and used medicinally. In Unani, the plant is known as Turbud, Nishoth and in Siddha as Karunchivadai.

General Information

Indian Jalap is a stout perennial twining climber with a long twisting pubescent stems. It exudes a milky juice on cutting.

Leaves simple, alternate without stipules, 7-11 cm long, 6.5-10 cm broad, broadly ovate or oblong-cordate, subacute, slightly repand, shallowly cordate at base, margin entire or slightly and undulately lobed, more or less pubescent on both sides, especially when young, minutely reticulate. Petioles 2-8 cm long, slightly pubescent.

The flowers are regular, bisexual rather large, white, campanulate, 4 cm long and as much in diameter, white in simple cymes, 2-5 flowers together, pedicels stout, thickened upwards, pubescent, peduncle 6-8.5 cm lung; bracts large, 2.7 cm long, 1.8 cm broad, oblong-lanceolate, pubescent, apiculate, soon falling off; sepals 5, unequal, imbricate, the two outer 2.5 cm long and as broad, ovate, membranous, mucronate, hairy on both sides, sprinkled over with black dots, becoming much enlarged in the fruit, inner sepals 1.7-2 cmlong, 1 .4-1.7 cm broad, hairy; petals 5, fused into a more or less rotate corolla, 4 cm in diameter, segments obscure, convolute and contorted in bud; stamens 5, epipetaious, filaments dilated at base and hairy; ovary superior, 2 mm long, 2-locular with 2 ovules in each chamber, style simple, 1 .6 cm long, stigma globose: fruit capsule over I .2 cm long, completely enclosed in enlarged, brittle, membranous, fleshy sepals, shortly stalked, depressed, strongly 4-lobed, slightly hairy.

Seeds are large and glabrous.

The roots are usually dull grey, long, slender, fleshy, cylindrical, elongated and bear thin rootlets. They are 1.5-15 cm long, 1-5 cm in diameter. The thicker pieces, sometimes split and show central wood portion. The roots taste slightly acrid and nauseating.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of is Operculina turpethum. It belongs to plant family Convolvulaceae.

Convolvulaceae, commonly referred as morning glory or bindweed family consists of 50-60 Genus and about 1600-1700 of plant species distributed primarily in tropical areas of world. About one-third of the species are included in two major genera, Ipomea and Convolvulus.

Many of the plants are valuable ornamentals, medicinal, and food crops. Some of the other medicinal plants belonging to this family are Argyreia nervosa (Elephant Creeper), Convolvulus pluricaulis Choisy (Sankhapuspi), Ipomoea digitata Linn. syn. Ipomoea paniculata (Giant potato), sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas), Ipomoea aquatica Forsk (Rabbit leaf) etc.

The name of plant family is derived from Latin word Convolvere meaning To Wind. The plants are annual or perennial climbers. The leaves of plants belonging to the family are alternate and simple or compound, heart-shaped and the flower petals are united in the characteristic funnel-shaped / trumpet-shaped corolla. The stems often contain latex. Roots are usually fibrous but sometimes form rootstalks or tubers.

Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
• Subclass: Asteridae
• Order: Solanales
• Family: Convolvulaceae – Morning-glory family
• Genus: Operculina Silva Manso – lidpod P
• Species: Operculina turpethum (L.) Silva Manso – St. Thomas lidpod P
• Variety: Operculina turpethum (L.) Silva Manso var. turpethum – St. Thomas lidpod

Synonyms

Ipomoea turpethum R. Br.

Merremia turpethum (L.) Shah & Bhat

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Roots

Plant type: Perennial twining climber

Distribution: India, China, Sri Lanka, Africa, Australia, throughout the tropics.

Habitat: Throughout India up to 1000 m in damp shady places.

Chief Action: Purgative, laxative

Flowers: During May and November

Safety Profile in Pregnancy: UNSAFE, it is should not be used in pregnancy. It is hot in potency, laxative and purgative. It can cause Abortion due to abortifacient activity.

Vernacular names / Synonyms

1. Scientific name: Operculina turpethum (Linn.) Silva Manso
2. Sanskrit: Ardhachandra, Aruna, Kalameshi, Kalaparni, Kali, Kalingika, Kumbhadhatri, Laghurochani, Malavika, Masuravidala, Masuri, Nandi, Paripakini, Rechani, Rochani, Saha, Sara, Sarana, Sarasa, Sarata, Sarvanubhuti, Shyama, Susheni, Suvaha, Tribhandi, Triputa, Trivela, Trivrit, Trivrittika, Vidala
3. Hindi: Nishothra, Nisotar, Nisoth, Nukpatar, Pitohri, Trivrut, Tarbal, Tarbud, Trabal
4. Bengali: Teudi, Tvuri, Dhdhakalami
5. Gujarati: Kala Nasottara
6. Kannada: Vili Tigade
7. Malayalam: Trikolpokanna
8. Marathi: Nisottar
9. Oriya: Dudholomo
10. Punjabi: Nisoth
11. Tamil: Karum Sivadai, Adimbu, Kumbam, Kumbanjan, Kunagandi, Paganrai, Samaran, Saralam, Sivadai
12. Telugu: Tella, Tegada
13. Urdu: Turbud, Nishoth
14. English: Indian Jalap, Turpeth, Terpeth Root, False Jalap

Constituents of Operculina turpethum

The roots of plant contain the glycosidic resin (about 10%), turpethin andh turpethein. Turpethein is made up of 1-turpethein containing jalapic, ipomoic and tampicolic acids and f-turpenthein. It gives laxative action to the drug.

The active principle glycosidic resin is a mostly concentrated in the root bark.

• Glycosides
• Volatile oil
• Resin

Important Medicinal Properties

Operculina turpethum is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it. For example, it has purgative properties and therefore should not be used in loose motions.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

• Antisecretory: Reduces gastric acid secretion, acidity.
• Anti-inflammatory: Reducing inflammation by acting on body mechanisms.
• Antimicrobial: Active against microbes.
• Anticancer: used against or tending to arrest or prevent cancer
• Abortifacient: Induces abortion.
• Hepatoprotective: Prevent damage to the live
• Laxative: Stimulate or facilitate evacuation of the bowels
• Purgative: Strongly laxative in effect.

Varieties of Trivrit in Ayurveda

Trivrit consists of dried root bark of Operculina turpethum. There are two varieties of Trivrit namely, Aruna or Shweta (whitish or reddish coloured root) and Shyama (blackish root).

1. Aruna or Shweta Trivrit

2. Shyama or Kala Trivrit

The botanical name of Shweta Trivrit is Operculina turpethum (L.) Silva Manso (syn. Ipomoea turpethum), while that of Shyama is Ipomoea petaloides chois.

Shyama Nishoth is also known As Kala, Kala Mesi, Kala Parni, Ardha Chandrika, Susena, Malavika, Masura and Vidala.

The white variety is used as a mild laxative and black variety as violent purgative.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action

Trivrit is purgative in action. It is astringent, bitter, sweet, sharp and pungent in taste (Rasa), pungent after digestion (Vipaka), and is hotin effect (Virya).

• Rasa (taste on tongue): Kashaya (Astringent), Madhura (Sweet), Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter)
• Guna (Pharmacological Action): Laghu (Light), Tikshna (Penetrating), Ruksha (Dry)
• Virya: Ushna (Heating)
• Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Katu (Pungent)
• Dosha: Black variety alleviates Kapha and Pitta
• Dhatu: Blood and Plasma
• Srota (Channels): Circulatory and excretory

Trivrt is used in Ayurveda for treatment of constipation, digestive ailments, fever, anemia, intestinal parasites etc. It is also used as supporting herb for diseases of the nervous system.

Karma (Action)

• Kaphahara: Pacifies Kapha Dosha
• Pittahara: Pacifies Pitta Dosha
• Vatala: Aggravates Vata
• Virechak: Virechaka or purgatives causes bowel
• Jvarahara: Destroys fever
• Sukhavirechan: Safely eliminates the body wastes
• Bhedaniya: Purgative and accumulation-breaking

Important Ayurvedic Formulations

1. Avipattikar Churna
2. Dhatupaushtik Churna
3. Abhayarishta
4. Chandraprabha Vati
5. Danti haritaki lehyam
6. Divya Udaramrit Vati
7. Divya Medohar Vati
8. Kayam Churna

Medicinal Uses of Indian Jalap

Turpeth is known as Indian Jalap and has properties similar to True Jalap. True Jalap is the resin obtained from the roots of a Mexican plant Ipomoea purga (Ipomoea jalapa/Exogonium purga), belonging to Convolvulaceae family and having drastic purgative and hydragogue (causes copious watery discharges from the bowels) properties. Turpeth is regarded as an effective substitute for true Jalap.

The powdered root is given as a purgative. The use of root powder gives relief in habitual constipation, colic and piles. For piles it is given along with Triphala.

It purges pitta and Kapha from the bowel.

Turpeth helps in skin disorders as it expels inflammatory watery accumulations from blood and fat. For skin diseases, it is combined with Manjishtha, Kutki, Punarnava and Neem.

Along with Guggulu, ginger, turmeric, it is effective in high cholesterol and obesity.

Along with ginger, it is particularly beneficial in rheumatic and paralytic affections, anemia, jaundice and inflammations.

It is given in dose of 3 grams with Mishri for jaundice.

The fresh juice of leaves is dropped into the eyes for inducing lachrymation in ophthalmia (severe inflammation of the eye or of the conjunctiva or deeper structures of the eye).

The root paste is applied topically to treat vitiligo, other skin disorders, alopecia, cervical lymphadenitis, hemorrhoids, fistulas, and ulcers.

Dosage of Operculina turpethum

1. The recommended dosage of root powder is 1-3 grams.
2. For therapeutic purgation a maximum 10-12 gm paste of root bark of Trivrit with fermented rice water or milk, is administered in the morning on empty stomach. This dose produces 10 to 30 loose motions.
3. Contraindications, Interactions, Side-effects and Warnings Operculina turpethum
4. It aggravates Vata.
5. It should not be used (Contraindicated) in pregnancy, in children below 12 years of age, in elderly, in physically or mentally weaker persons, and in persons suffering from diarrhea, bleeding per rectum, rectal prolapse, or fecal incontinence.
6. Large doses may lead to serious complications such as loose motions, bleeding per rectum, vomiting, abdominal pain, chest pain, dehydration, hypotension, vertigo, confusion, shock, and unconsciousness.
7. It is always combined with antispasmodic herbs to prevent griping.

Curcuma zedoaria is known as Karchura, Sathi, Wild Turmeric and Karchur in Ayurveda. It is mainly used to reduce kapha / phlegm and increase circulation. It is warming and demulcent.

The rhizomes of plant are prescribed by Charak for cough, difficult breathing, asthma, hiccups, swellings, arthritis, rheumatism, diseases of skin and in low appetite. Traditionally, the decoction of Karchura is given along with Pippali, Dalchini and honey for cold and cough. This preparation has warming effect on body and helps to alleviate cough.

By Meneerke bloem - Norberak egina, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=8489502

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The rhizome of this plant is considered a tonic and carminative. Combined with other astringents it is applied on bruises and sprains. In West, it is known as Zedoary and used as a condiment. Therapeutically, it has carminative and stimulant action.

General Information

Wild Turmeric is biennial herb with a large rootstock of palmately branched, sessile, annulate, biennial tubers, yellow and aromatic within.

Leaves are simple, 22.5—30 cm long, oblong, caudatea cuminate, base deltoid, green, often variegated above, pubescent beneath, petioles 60—90 cm long, green.

Flowering stem appear before or with the leafing stem, as thick as the forefinger, sheathed.

Flowers are somewhat irregular, bisexual, in spikes 15—30 cm long and about 2.5 cm diameter. Flower bracts 3.7—5 cm long, recurved, ovate, cymbiform, tip rounded, pale green connate below forming pouches for the flowers, empty bracts 5—7.5 cm long, red or pink, flowers shorter than bracts. Calyx is tubular. Corolla is pinkish-white with a yellow fragrant lip, tube 2.5 cm long, limb 3-partite, upper half funnel-shaped, lateral segments oblong, upper longer, ovate, concave, overarching the anther. Staminodes are obtuse as long as corolla segments, lip deflexed, orbicular, obscurely 3-lobed. Stamen 1, filament short, adnate to the lateral staminodes. Anther not crested, bases of cells spurred, incurved. Ovary is inferior, 3-locular, many ovuled, style filiform, stigma 2-lipped, lips ciliate.

Fruit is globose, pericarp membranous at length 3-valved. Seeds are ellipsoid with a white lacerate aril.

The root/rhizome occurs in thin, transverse slices, 2 to 5 cm. in diameter, pale brown and wrinkled without, smooth and mealy within, odor camphoraceous, taste pungent and spicy bitter.

Flowering: January and February

Propagation: exclusively from divisions of the rhizomes

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of is Curcuma zedoaria. It belongs to plant family Zingiberaceae.

Zingiberaceae, or Ginger family is one of the largest monocotyledonous families of the plant kingdom distributed mostly in tropical and subtropical areas. They are perennial rhizomatous herbs growing in damp, humid shady places and are characterized by the possession of a tuberous and or creeping rhizome with an aerial shoot (pseudo stem) often covered by sheathing leaf bases. The inflorescence is usually a spike or raceme. The flowers are bisexual, always epigynous and asymmetric.

The plants belonging to this family provide many useful products for food, spices, medicines, dyes, perfume and aesthetics. Some of the important plants belonging to this family are Turmeric (Curcuma longa), Cardamom /Malabar or Mysore Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum), BlackCardamom (Amomum aromaticum), Galanga (Alpinia galanga) and Ginger (Zingiber officinale).

Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Liliopsida – Monocotyledons
• Subclass: Zingiberidae
• Order: Zingiberales
• Family: Zingiberaceae – Ginger family
• Genus: Curcuma L. – curcuma
• Species: Curcuma zedoaria (Christm.) Roscoe – zedoary

Synonyms

Amomum zedoaria Christm.

Curcuma aromatica Salisb

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Rhizome

Plant type: Herb

Distribution: Cultivated more or less throughout India.

Habitat: Found growing in damp shady places. Wild in Eastern Himalaya, central region of Karnataka and Chittagong.

Safety Profile in Pregnancy: It is UNSAFE to take Zedoary in pregnancy.

Other Uses: Provide the Shoti Starch

The starch (Shoti Starch) obtained from the tuber is used as substitute for arrowroot and barley.

Zedoaria Oil: The essential oil obtained from the roots is known as Zedoaria Oil. The oil has antibacterial, antifungal and carminative action. On application, it produces relaxation of smooth muscles. It depresses the heart and causes contraction of blood vessels. It increases amplitude and frequency of respiration. The essential oil contains alphapinene, d-camphor, d-camphene, cineole, sesquiterpenes and sesquiterpene alcohols.

Vernacular names / Synonyms

1. Scientific name: Curcuma zedoaria Rosc. ex Smith
2. Sanskrit: Karchura, Aranyaharidra, Sholi, Sholika, Vanahaladi, Vanaharidra, Vanarishta, Dravida, Palashi, Kachura Gandh-mulaka, Shati, Gandhapalasha, Kacchura
3. Hindi: Ban haldi, Ban haridra, Jangli haldi
4. Tamil: Kasturi-manjal, Kattu-mannal, Kichili, Kizhangu, Kitchiliki Zhangu, Padam Kizhangu
5. Telugu: Kachoramu, Kichili Gadda
6. English: Kua, Zedoary, Cochin Turmeric, Wild Turmeric, Yellow Zedoary
7. Assamese: Katuri
8. Bengali: Ekangi, Kachura, Sati, Shori
9. Gujarati: Kachuro, Shatakachuro
10. Kannada: Kachora
11. Malayalam: Kaeheholam, Kachchurikizhanna, Pulakizhanna
12. Marathi: Kachari, Kachora, Narakachora
13. Oriya: Kachoramu, Gandha Sunthi, Karchura
14. Punjabi: Kachur
15. Sinhalese: Dadakaha, Walkaha
16. Siddha: Kichili Kizhangu
17. Unani: Zaranbad (Neem Kofta), Zarambad, Narkachoor
18. Urdu: Kachur, Zarambad
19. Tehran: Zurunbad
20. Arabic: Uruk-el-kafur, Zurambad
21. Cambodia: Prateal vong preah atit
22. Dutch: Ronde zedoar
23. French: Zedoaire, Zedoaire bulheux1 Zedoire
24. German: Zedoarwurzel, Zittwer
25. Italian: Zedoaria
26. Persian: Kazhui, Urukelkafur
27. Spanish: Zedoaria

Ayurvedic Medicines

1. Agastya Rasayanam is indicated in Respiratory Disorders including allergic cough-cold, intermittent fever, piles etc. As Haritaki is the chief ingredient of this medicine it has laxative properties and helps to cure constipation and gives in piles.
2. Chandraprabha Vati is a good remedy for women who suffers from weakness of uterus. It is good medicine for female disorders such as painful periods, mensturation for long duration like 10-12 days, pain in whole body, low energy, and low appetite. In such condition this medicine should be taken with Ashoka Ghrita or Phala Ghrita.
3. Dhanwantaram Ghritam
4. Takrarishta
5. Yograj Guggulu is warming, digestive, and detoxifying in nature. It has anti-inflammatory, Vatahar and pain reliving action. It shows beneficial effect in arthritis, gout, degenerative diseases of joints due to excess vata, rheumatoid arthritis, back pain etc.

Unani Medicines

1. Arq-e-Amber is an Unani medicine. It is used to strengthen heart, brain, liver and the stomach. It improves general, physical and mental well-being. It has aphrodisiac action and improves vigour and vitality.
2. Habbe Kabid Naushadari
3. Jawarish-e-Zanjabeel
4. Roghan Amla Sada

Constituents of Curcuma zedoaria

Zedoary contains up to 0.1% curcumin. It also contains contain curcumene, curcumol, curdione. Curcumol and Curdione are Antitumor and anticancer. Dehydrocurdione is pain relieving, anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic and fever reducing. Zingiberene possess Antiulcer, Carminative and Insecticidal properties.

1. Curcumol
2. Curdione
3. Dehydrocurdione
4. Zingiberene
5. Few Indication of Zedoary
6. Alzheimer’s
7. Rheumatism
8. Malarial Fevers
9. Flatulence, Vomiting
10. Pharyngeal and Laryngeal Inflammations
11. Discharges from Genital Organs
12. Externally On Skin Affections

Important Medicinal Properties

Curcuma zedoaria is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it. For example it has emmenagogue action and should not be used in heavy periods.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

1. Antipyretic/antifebrile/febrifuge: Effective against fever.
2. Aphrodisiac: Stimulates sexual desire.
3. Anti-aggregant: decrease platelet aggregation and inhibit thrombus formatio
4. Anti-inflammatory: Reducing inflammation by acting on body mechanisms.
5. Carminative: Preventing the formation or causing the expulsion of flatulence.
6. Demulcent: Relieving inflammation or irritation.
7. Diuretic: Promoting excretion of urine/agent that increases the amount of urine excreted.
8. Emmenagogue: Stimulates or increases menstrual flow.
9. Expectorant: Promotes the secretion of sputum by the air passages, used to treat coughs.
10. Stomachic: Stimulates gastric activity.
11. Stimulant: Raises levels of physiological or nervous activity in the body.
12. Tonic: Restore or improve health or well-being.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action

Karchura is the dried pieces of rhizome of Curcuma zedoaria. It is bitter and pungent in taste (Rasa), pungent after digestion (Vipaka), and is hot in effect (Virya).

It is an Ushna Virya herb. Ushna Virya or hot potency herb, subdues Vata (Wind) and Kapha (Mucus) and increases Pitta (Bile). It has property of digestion, vomiting and purging, and gives feeling of lightness. It is considered bad for sperms and fetus.

• Rasa (taste on tongue): Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter),
• Guna (Pharmacological Action): Laghu (Light), Tikshna (Sharp)
• Virya (Action): Ushna (Heating)
• Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Katu (Pungent)

Action

• Deepana: Promote appetite but do not aid in digesting undigested food
• Kaphahar: Reduces phlegm
• Mukhasodhana: Purification of mouth
• Ruchikarak: Improve taste

Medicinal Uses of Curcuma zedoaria

The rhizomes are pungent, bitter, aromatic, heating, appetizer, anthelmintic, antipyretic, alexiteric. It destroys bad breath. Rhizome is useful in leucoderma, piles, bronchitis, asthma, tumours, tuberculous glands of the neck (Galgand), enlargement of the spleen, epileptic seizure and skin diseases. The fresh root is considered cooling and diuretic. It checks leukorrheal and gonorrheal discharges and purifies the blood. The juice of the leaves is given in dropsy. Zedoary is used in same way as ginger.

1. Leucorrhea and gonorrheal discharges

Fresh rhizomes is used.

2. Purifying the blood, antidote to scorpion-venom

The rhizomes are used.

3. Cough, sticky taste in the mouth

The rhizomes are chewed.

4. Colds, fevers, bronchitis

The decoction of the rhizome administered along with long pepper, cinnamon, and honey.

5. After Childbirth

Rhizomes are given as tonic after delivery, thrice a day for 2 weeks.

6. Dropsy

Leaf juice is given.

7. Sprains and bruises

Rhizome is applied as a paste mixed with alum.

8. Dermatitis, sprains, ulcer, and wounds

Paste of rhizomes are applied.

8. Lymphangitis, furunculosis, and adinites

Leaves are used as plasters.

Dosage of Curcuma zedoaria

1. Root powder is used in dose of Powder 1-3 grams/day.
2. Tea / Root Infusion, prepared from the root is taken in dose of 14–28 ml.
3. The extract is taken in form of 300 and 450 mg capsules.
4. Contraindications, Interactions, Side-effects and Warnings Curcuma zedoaria
5. Avoid use in heavy menstrual flow.
6. Do not use in pregnancy.
7. It is hot in potency. Do not take in excess.
8. It increases pitta / gastric acidity.

Cassia occidentalis is known as Kasamarda in Ayurveda, Kasaondi (Kasundi) in Unani and Paeyaavarai, Thagarai in Siddha. In Sanskrit, meaning of Kasa is cough or phlegm and Mardan means to destroy. So one which destroys Kasa is called Kasamarda. As this plant possess expectorant properties, and is effective against cough, asthma and other respiratory ailments it is given the name Kasamarda and Kasari. It cleanses the throat, purifies the blood and improves the digestion.

The leaves, roots and seeds of plant are purgative. Cassia occidentalis, is used externally in skin diseases and poisonous bites. The leaves are applied on scabies, ringworm and other skin diseases. Though it is named Coffee Senna, but it has no relation to coffee.

By J.M.Garg (Own work) [GFDL (http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html) or CC BY-SA 4.0-3.0-2.5-2.0-1.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0-3.0-2.5-2.0-1.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

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General Information

Cassia occidentalis, is a much branched, smooth, half woody herb or shrub about 0.8 to 1.8 m tall.

1. Stem is erect and without hairs.
2. Leaves are lanceolate or ovate-lanceolate, bipinnately compound and about 20 to 25 cm in length. Each pinna has four to seven pairs of leaflets, which are 3 to 9 cm in length and 2 to 4 cm in width and arranged oppositely. Leaflets are ovate or ovate lanceolate in shape with a long, fine pointed tip. Each leaf has a distinct spherical shaped gland, which is located about 0.3 to 0.5 cm from the base of the petiole.
3. Inflorescence is a terminal or axillary raceme. Flowers are yellow coloured and about 2 cm long and 3 to 4 cm wide.
4. Fruit is a pod / legume, compressed, 8 to 12 cm long, 0.7 to 1 cm wide and curved slightly upwards. Each pod contains 20 to 30 seeds, which are ovoid in shape, smooth, shiny and dull brown to dark olive-green in colour.
5. Soil preferred for growth: slightly acidic to neutral soil with high moisture content.
6. Propagation: By seeds from mature pods.
7. Flowering: March, June

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of is Cassia occidentalis. It belongs to plant family Fabaceae ⁄ Leguminosae and genus Caesalpinia L. or Caesalpiniaceae. The genus Caesalpinia (Caesalpiniaceae) has more than 500 species distributed worldwide. The plants of this genus are rich in flavonoids, diterpenes, and steroid and used medicinally throughout the world.

Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

1. Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
2. Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
3. Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
4. Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
5. Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
6. Subclass: Rosidae
7. Order: Fabales
8. Family: Fabaceae ⁄ Leguminosae – Pea family
9. Genus: Caesalpinia L. – nicker
10. Species: Cassia occidentalis

Synonyms

Senna occidentalis

1. Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Roots, leaves, seeds, bark
2. Plant type: herb or undershrub
3. Distribution: Occurs in the tropics including India, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Philippines Islands.
4. Habitat: Wet places
5. Status: Common plant
6. Chiefaction: diuretic, blood purifying, laxative

Vernacular names / Synonyms

1. Scientific name: Cassia occidentalis
2. Sanskrit: Kasamarda, Arimarda, Kasari, Badikasondi, Chakunda, Kasonda, Dipana, Kala, Kalankata, Kanaka, Karkasha, Kasamardaka, Kasari, Kashamarda, Jarana, Vimarda
3. Siddha: Paeyaavarai, Thagarai
4. Unani: Tukhme Kasaondi
5. Hindi: Kasondi
6. Marathi: Kasunda
7. Malayalam: Natrum takara, Ponnaveeram
8. Bengali: Kalakasunda
9. Gujarati: Kasuvayee
10. Tamil: Nattandagarai, Peyavirai, Ponnavirai
11. Telugu: Kasinda
12. English: Coffee Senna, Negro Coffee, Rubbish Cassia, Stinking Weed, fedegoso
13. Maldives: Dhigu thiyara
14. SriLanka (Sinhalese): Penitora

Constituents of Cassia occidentalis

The seeds contain fatty matter, tannic acid, sugar, gum, cellulose, calcium sulphate and phosphate, crysophanic and malic acids, sodium chloride, magnesium sulphate, iron, silica and achrosine. 1, 8-dihydroxy-2- methylanthraquinone, 1, 4, 5-trihydroxy-7-methoxy-3- methylanthraquinone, physcion, its glucoside, rhein, aloe-emodin, chrysophanol, its glycoside, N-methylmorpholine, glucosides of campesterol and ß-sitosterol, and a galactomannan are also present in seeds.

The volatile oil obtained from the leaves, roots and seeds have antibacterial and antifungal activity.

Few medicines containing Cassia occidentalis

1. Himalaya Liv.52 for Liver care
2. Himalaya Bonnisan
3. Himalaya Herbolax Tab for Constipation
4. Himalaya Geriforte
5. Pancha Jeeraka Gudam

Ayurvedic Properties and Action

Kasamardaka is sweet, alleviator of kapha (Kasa=cough, marda=destroy) and vata. It is carminative and cleanses the throat. It specially alleviates pitta. It is bitter, sweet in taste (Rasa), pungent after digestion (Vipaka), and is hot in effect (Virya).

• Rasa (taste on tongue): Madhura (Sweet), Tikta (Bitter
• Guna (Pharmacological Action): Laghu (Light), Ruksha (Dry)
• Virya (Action): Ushna (Heating)
• Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Katu (Pungent)

Kasmarda cures krmi (parasitic infection), pratishyay (rhinitis), Aruchi (anorexia), Shvasa (asthma) and Kasa. It helps in the cleansing of ulcers.

Unani Properties of Kasondi

In Unani the Seeds are used in skin diseases, cough and whooping cough. The Roots are used in fever, neuralgia and dropsy.

Mizaj (Temperament): Hot2 Dry2

Leaf, Root & Seed: purgative

Seed: febrifuge

Root: diuretic and antiperiodic

Important Medicinal Properties

Cassia occidentalis is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it. For example, it has laxative and diuretic properties and therefore should not be used in loose motions and medical condition which restricts use of diuretics.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

1. Antioxidant: Neutralize the oxidant effect of free radicals and other substances.
2. Anti-allergic: Prevents, or relieves an allergy.
3. Anti-inflammatory: Reducing inflammation by acting on body mechanisms.
4. Anthelmintic: Antiparasitic, expel parasitic worms (helminths) and other internal parasites from the body.
5. Anti-lipidperoxidant: against lipid peroxidation / oxidative degradation of lipids which causes cell damage.
6. Diuretic: Promoting excretion of urine/agent that increases the amount of urine excreted.
7. Expectorant: Promotes the secretion of sputum by the air passages, used to treat coughs.
8. Laxative: Tending to stimulate or facilitate evacuation of the bowels.
9. Purgative: Strongly laxative in effect
10. Stomachic: Stimulates gastric activity.
11. Tonic: Restore or improve health or well-being.

Medicinal Uses of Cassia occidentalis

Cassia occidentalis has many medicinal properties and traditionally used as purgative, tonic, diuretic, febrifuge, and anthelminthic agent. It is used as folk medicine in dropsy, rheumatism, fevers, piles, colic pain, snake bite and venereal diseases. It is used topically on ringworm, eczema and other skin diseases.

The seeds of tree are roasted and powdered to prepare strong coffee due to which it is also known as Coffee Senna or Negro Coffee. Roasting destroys the purgative property of seeds. This coffee is given as a substitute to coffee and also as a tonic, cure for asthma and convulsions, hysteria. The seeds are also used in treatment of whooping cough and diseases of heart.

Seeds possess diuretic, febrifugal, emetic, and purgative / cathartic properties.

Leaves are used as vegetable. They have laxative and liver detoxifying properties. They are used as a purgative. Leaf poultice is applied for relief from oedema. Bruised leaf is used in pleurisy and similar inflammatory conditions, both internally and externally.

1. Colic pain

The paste prepared from leaves is taken in dose of 1 gram twice a day for three days.

2. Chicken pox

Kasmarda leaves, Neem leaves, Khus Khus Grass, Sandalwood and Dhamasa (Fagonia cretica) are boiled in water and used as bath.

3. Cutaneous diseases and eruptions

The seed powder is applied externally.

4. Diabetes

Bark infusion is used in diabetes.

5. Tinea/ringworm, scabies

Paste of leaf is applied topically.

6. Fever, liver disorders

Roots are used in intermittent fevers and as a tonic and diuretic in dropsy and liver complaints.

7. Piles

Dry the roots of plant. Ground to make powder. Take in dose of 5 grams.

The seed powder is taken in dose of 2 grams twice day for a week.

8. Snake bite

For snake bite 10 gm root part is chewed three times a day for three days.

Dosage of Cassia occidentalis

1. Leaves are used in dose of 5-10 grams and the seeds in 1-3 grams.
2. Fresh leaf juice can be taken in dose of 10-20 ml.
3. The root bark decoction is taken in dose of 50-100 ml.
4. Contraindications, Interactions, Side-effects and Warnings Cassia occidentalis
5. Do not take in diarrhea.

Though the animal study show oral administration during pregnancy in female Wistar rats did not cause statistically significant changes between control and test groups with respect to fetuses, placentae and ovaries weight, it is better to avoid this herb in pregnancy as it is a hot in potency and has purgative effect.

Acute toxicity test conducted on Cassia occidentalis found that this plant did not show any hazardous symptoms. The leaves are found to be safe with no adverse effect on the liver and kidney functions at the doses administered.

Asparagus possess many medicinal properties and is used for therapeutic purposes since ancient times. It was one of the oldest and most valued medicine of the Romans. The fresh, fleshy fibrous roots and shoots are used as diuretic. The roots exhibit more diuretic properties compared to shoots.

In Homeopathy, Asparagus is especially used in urinary problems. It has marked and immediate action on the urinary secretion. In Unani the seeds are considered Muallid Mani or Semen Procreator. They increase semen or causes production or sperms.

Common Garden Asparagus is mainly cultivated for its tender shoots. It is a European vegetable found in cooler climates and high altitudes. It is believed that asparagus was first cultivated some 2,000 years ago in the eastern Mediterranean Region. Romans and Greeks used asparagus as food and medicine.

The plant has fleshy, long, thick roots from which young shoots emerge. These young shoots are known as spears and are harvested during spring season and eaten as vegetable after boiling or steaming for 10-15 minutes. They are also eaten as salad. The shoots are good source of protein and dietary fiber. The roastedseeds are used as coffee substitute. Asparagus is rich in nutrients, particularly carotenoids and sulfur containing compounds which give the plant its distinctive taste.

General Information

Asparagus is a dioecious (have the male and female reproductive structures on separate plants) perennial plant, with underground fleshy root-stock. Mature plant has fernlike, wispy foliage.

Erect stem of plant can be of 2 meters height. The stalks bear bud clusters of leaves resembling prickly brownish scales.

The plant remains productive for at least 10 years. The spring growth of this plant resembles a cluster of green fingers. Every spring young stems, known as spears, emerge through the ground. They represent the edible part of the plant and are collected daily over a period of about two months. After the harvest period the stems grow and develop branches, covered with stem like cladophylls, while the leaves are reduced to small scales along the stems.

Flowers are small, unisexual and greenish white-yellow, hanging on slender pedicels, 2 or 3 together in the axils of the principal branches, many of them with stamens only. The size of flower depends on gender of plant.

The berries are scarlet, the size of a pea, holding two seeds in each cell. They contain grape sugar and sparganein, a coloring matter. Seeds contain a fixed oil and aromatic resin.

The roots are twisted, black on the outside, white and horny within, mucilaginous when soaked in water. They have sweet taste. In autumn, carbohydrates and nutrients are accumulated in the storage roots.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Asparagus is Asparagus officinalis. It belongs to a monocotyledon of the Liliaceae family. It is believed to be native of eastern Mediterranean region and now naturalized in many countries such as USA, New Zealand.

It is also cultivated and available in India. But the quality of plants, size, and flavor may differ from the European plants.

The genus Asparagus contains more than 200 species and some of them are very well known, for e.g. Shatavari or Asparagus racemosa, which is a boon for gynecological problems. Asparagus racemosus and Asparagus officinalis should not be confused. Both are completely different species.

Below is given taxonomical classification of Asparagus officinalis.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Liliopsida – Monocotyledons
• Subclass: Liliidae
• Order: Liliales
• Family: Liliaceae – Lily family
• Genus: Asparagus L. – asparagus P
• Species: Asparagus officinalis L. – Garden Asparagus
• Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Seeds, shoots and roots
• Plant type: Herb
• Distribution: Cultivated all over the world for edible use
• Habitat: Temperate areas of World; Native to Europe and West Asia.

Common Names

1. English: Common Garden Asparagus, Asparagus Grass, Sparagrass, Sparrow Grass
2. Sanskrit: Dvipantara Shatavari
3. Hindi: Halyun, Marchuba, Paragus, Vilayati Karua, Margiyeh
4. Bengali: Hikua
5. Arabic: Isfarez, Halyan
6. Dutch: Asperge
7. French: Asperge
8. German: Spargel, Schwamerwartz
9. Greek: Asparagia, Asparagonia
10. Italian: Cornudo
11. Persian: Marchubeh
12. Russian: Sparja
13. Spanish: Esparrago
14. Unani: Hilyun (Seed)
15. Tehran: Bikh-i-hallmun (Root)

Main Indication

1. Infections of the urinary tract
2. Kidney and bladder stones
3. Vernacular names / Synonyms

Nutrition of Asparagus Stem per 100 grams (Fresh weight)

1. Moisture 93.0%
2. Carbohydrates 4-5%
3. Protein 2.5%
4. Fat 0.2%
5. Fiber 0.7%

Minerals and Vitamins

1. Phosphorus 62 mg
2. Vitamin C 33 mg
3. Calcium 22 mg
4. Magnesium 20 mg
5. Iron 1.0 mg
6. Vitamin A 540mg
7. Thiamine (B1) 0.18mg
8. Riboflavin (B2) 0.2mg

Constituents of Asparagus

The root contains steroidal glycosides (asparagosides) and bitter glycosides, asparagusic acid and its derivatives, asparagines, arginine and tyrosine, flavonoids, including rutin, kaempferol and quercetrin, polysaccarides and inulin. Asparagine is a strong diuretic source of Folic Acid and selenium.

It also contains sulfur compounds (dimethyl sulphide,), which are responsible for its distinctive taste and smell.

Aerial parts: 2-hydroxyasparenyn 4’trans-2hydroxy-1methoxy-4-5(4methoxyphenoxy)-3- penten-1-ynyl-benzene

Fruits: Capsanthin, capsorubin, capsanthin 5, 6 epoxide 3-O-[a-L-rhamnopyranosyl (1-2);] beta-oglucopyranosyl](25S)spirost- 5-ene-3beta-ol

Roots: Steroids, Sucrose-1-fructosyltransferase, Sarsasapogenin and nine asparagosides A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I

Important Medicinal Properties

Asparagus is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilise this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

1. Antitussive: Prevent or relieve a cough.
2. Antipyretic/antifebrile/febrifuge: Effective against fever.
3. Anticancer: Used against or tending to arrest or prevent cancer.
4. Anti-inflammatory: Reducing inflammation by acting on body mechanisms.
5. Antioxidant: Neutralize the oxidant effect of free radicals and other substances.
6. Cardiotonic: tonic effect on the action of the heart
7. Contraceptive: Prevent pregnancy
8. Demulcent: Relieving inflammation or irritation.
9. Depurative: Purifying agent.
10. Diuretic: Promoting excretion of urine/agent that increases the amount of urine excreted.
11. hair growth stimulator: Promotes hair growth
12. Hypotensive: blood pressure lowering
13. Galactagogue: Promotes or increases the flow of a mother's milk.
14. Laxative: Tending to stimulate or facilitate evacuation of the bowels.
15. Sedative: Promoting calm or inducing sleep
16. Spermicide: Kills sperms.
17. Tonic: Gives feeling of vigour or well-being.

Health Benefits of Asparagus

The shoots are considered aphrodisiac and tonic.

1. It is low in calories with virtually nofat and very lowsodium.
2. It reduces the acidity in blood due to its alkaline nature.
3. It works as body cleanser.
4. It has diuretic properties and stimulates production and passing of urine.
5. It flushes the kidneys and helps prevent formation of kidney stones.
6. It helps in constipation due high fiber content.
7. It is rich in folicacid.
8. It used to increase sexualpotency for both men and women.
9. It has high ascorbicacid (vitamin C) content, about 20 to 38 mg per 100 grams.

Medicinal Uses of Common Garden Asparagus

1. Asparagus roots are used in treatment of variety of diseases including female infertility, rheumatism, gout, arthritis, kidney stones, and urinary problems. For preventing the nutrition loss, it is better to steam the herb as boiling causes loss of important minerals.
2. Asparagus roots have diuretic and laxative properties. It is used in irrigation therapy for inflammatory diseases of the urinary tract and for prevention of kidney stones.
3. The infusion made from roots is used against jaundice and congestive torpor of the liver.
4. Tincture made from the whole plant is used in urinary irritation, rheumatism and gout. The water in which Asparagus has been boiled is beneficial against rheumatism.
5. The roots are used to reduce cramping in menstruation. Like Shatavari, it is also used to stimulate secretion of breast milk.
6. It is an excellent food for strengthening the heart. For weak or enlarged hearts, the freshly expressed juice of shoots is taken with honey.
7. Asparagus along with celery, parsley, holly, and fennel were used traditionally for the treatment of dropsy and gravel.
8. The powdered seeds are used to get relief from nausea.

Dosage of Asparagus

• The recommended doses of dried root powder is 3-6 grams. Children above the age of 5 years can be given half of the adult dose.
• The tender shoot can be taken 20-50 grams.
• Contraindications, Interactions, Side-effects and Warnings Asparagus

Hazards and/or side effects not known for proper therapeutic dosages.

1. Raw asparagus may cause nausea or diarrhea.
2. The fruits / berries are mildly poisonous.
3. It is contraindicated in kidney diseases and oedema because of functional heart.
4. It must not be used in inflammatory kidney disorders.
5. Avoid in goiter, liver and kidney diseases.
6. Do not use in case of excess catarrhal mucus.
7. There are few incidences in which allergic reactions (asthma, anaphylaxis) have occurred on handling the plant or on oral use.
8. It makes urine smelly.