Chironji tree is commercially very useful. It bears edible fruits. The ripe fruits are sweet, nutritious, laxative and useful in fever and excessive thirst. The seed which is present in the fruit is deshelled to get the kernel. The kernel is called Chironji nuts. They are small, brownish and have nutty taste. The kernel contain about 52% oil, which is used as substitute for olive and almond oils. This oil is useful in treating diseases of skin. An adhesive is also obtained from the tree and available as Chironji ki Gond.

Badagnani at en.wikipedia [CC BY-SA 3.0 or GFDL via Wikimedia Commons

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Chironji tree is also used for medicinal purpose. Its leaves, bark and seeds are used to treat numerous ailments. The leaves are cooling, digestive, reduces phlegm, cleanses bowel, aphrodisiac and causes sweating. The leaves are used in treatment of cold, cough, bronchitis, gas, constipation, seminal weakness, skin diseases and burning sensation in body due to heat. The gum of tree is useful in loose motions. The seeds intake gives strength. The kernel is applied topically on skin diseases to cure itching, spots and blemishes on face. The kernel oil is applied on glandular swellings on neck. The seeds are tonic and expectorant.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Chironji is Buchanania lanzan Spreng. and it belongs to the family Anacardiaceae. The synonyms of species are B. latifolia Roxb. and Chironjia sapida. Its taxonomic classification is as given below:-

Description

Evergreen, moderate sized tree, with straight, cylindrical trunk, up to 10-15 m height and tomentose branches. Leaves are thickly coriaceous, broadly oblong with a rounded base. Flower small, greenish-white in color. Flowering starts in the month of November.

Seeds: Seed laterally much compressed, creamish-brown, mottled with darker brown lines, 0.4-0.6 cm long, 0.3-0.5 cm wide, occasionally separate cotyledons also occur, funicle stout, micropyle superior, linear, hilum present at the apex of round edge; slight pressure separates oily cotyledons; odour, pleasant; taste, sweetish-oily.

Bark: Bark occurs in 3 to 11 cm long, and about 1.0 cm thick pieces; external surface greyish-brown, rough due to formation of fissures; internal surface reddish-brown and fibrous; recurved, flat or more or less channelled; fracture, fibrous.

Distribution: dry forests of Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Varanasi and Mirzapur districts of Uttar Pradesh.

Vernacular names

Ayurvedic Properties and Action on body

Chironji tree is known as Priyal in Ayurveda. For medicinal purpose all parts of this tree are used in Ayurveda.

The Seeds: The main constituent of seeds are Albuminoids, Oil and Starch. The seeds oral intake increases strength. It is good for heart. Seeds reduces kapha/phlegm inside body. They also decreases vata and pitta.

The two important formulations which contains Chironji seeds as an ingredient are Puga khand and Priyal Tail.

For therapeutic use, the recommended dosage in Ayurveda is 10gm-20 gm.

The Stem Bark: The main constituent of bark are Alkaloids, Tannins, Saponins, reducing Sugars, Triterpenoids and Flavonoids.

The two important formulations which contains Priyal bark as an ingredient are Ashok Ghrita and Nyagrodhadi churna.

The bark of tree is used to treat fever, bleeding disorders, excessive thirst and bloody dysentery.

For therapeutic use, the recommended, dosage of bark in Ayurveda is 5-10 grams.

Medicinal uses of Chironji

Its leaves contain tannins, triterpenoids, saponins, flavonoids and reducing sugars. They are used as cardiotonic.

The gum of tree is useful in diarrhea and rheumatism.

The roots are acrid, astringent, cooling, depurative and constipating and are useful in treatment of diarrhea.

The oil extracted from kernels is known as 'char' and used for curing skin diseases and removing spots/blemishes from the face. This oil contains palmitic and oleic acids. It is applied to glandular swellings of the neck.

Chironji nuts contains 3.0% moisture and are rich in lipid/fat (59.0%), protein (19.0–21.6%), starch/carbohydrate (12.1%), fibre (3.8%), minerals like calcium, phosphorus, iron and vitamins like thiamine, ascorbic acid/vitamin C, riboflavin, niacin.

Chironji nuts are used as brain tonic. They are good for skin due to their richness in fat, vitamins and minerals. These nuts are antioxidants and improves body immunity to fight infections.

Chironji nuts are used in preparation of many sweet preparations such as halwa, kheer, laddu, paak etc. They are also used as dry fruit in preparation of sweets.

Home Remedies using Chironji nuts

1. Glowing skin, removing blemishes
2. Chironji face-pack: Chironji face pack is useful in making facial skin soft, smooth, and glowing. For making this face pack, ground the nuts adding some gulab jal. The consistency of paste should not very thin. Apply this paste on face till it dries and then remove the pack. Apply this pack daily for one week.
3. Chironji-orange peel powder face pack: Ground Chironji and orange peel powder adding some milk. Apply on face till it pack dries. Then wash with plain water.
4. Sheet-pitt/urticarial/chapaki
5. For Shitpitta, take 20grams Chironji and chew very well. This will gives relief in itching and burning sensation in body.

Safed musli is tuberous root of a plant. The tuberous roots of Chlorophytum borivilianum, Chlorophytum arundinaceum, Chlorophytum tuberosum and Asparagus adscendens are used as Safed Musli. The tubers are white in colour. The dried tuberous roots are powdered and available in markets as Safed Mulsi.

Musli is considered natural Viagra or Indian Ginseng. It is especially used as an aphrodisiac. Because of its popularity as a sex tonic its cultivation is done in number of regions around the world. As per Ayurveda, it is immunity booster, vaajikarak, Rasayan and a general health tonic. It mainly works on reproductive and respiratory system.

Safed musli is ‘Rasayan’ or adaptogen. It is useful in debility (general and sexual), diarrhea, leucorrhea, spermatorrhea, wasting diseases. Animal research shows that it might increase sexual activity and might possibly have effects similar to testosterone. It is given to women during pregnancy and postpartum, for nourishing fetus and increasing breast milk flow. Its use can increase Ama and congestion in body.

Vernacular Name

Part Used:Tuberous root or rhizome

Habitat:Western Himalayas, Punjab, Gujarat, Mumbai, Rajasthan, Central India

Medicinal Properties of White Musli

Chemical Constituents

The main active constituents of the roots are alkaloids, vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbohydrates, saponins, polysaccharides and steroids. It contains carbohydrates (35-45%), fiber (25-35%), alkaloids (15-25%), saponins (2-20%), and proteins (5-10%). Itis a rich source of over 25 alkaloids, vitamins, proteins, carbohydrates, steroids, saponins, potassium, phenol, resins, mucilage, and polysaccharides and also contains high quantity of simple sugars, mainly sucrose, glucose, fructose, galactose, mannose and xylose.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action on body

• Rasa (Taste):Tikta/Bitter, Madhura/Sweet
• Guna (Characteristics):Guru/Heavy, Snigdha/Unctuous
• Virya (Potency):Ushna/Hot
• Vipaka (Post Digestive Effect):Madhura/Sweet
• Action:Balya, sukravriddhikar, Rasayana

Health Benefits of Safed Musli

• It is a rasayan and rejuvenator that improves overall health.
• It has antidiabetic, antioxidant and anti-stress effects.
• It is beneficial in all male sexual problems such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, sexual dysfunction, impotency etc.
• It improves sperm count and semen quality.
• It increases the lactation amongst the feeding mothers. It is useful in treatment of white discharge.
• It improves strength and vigor.
• It cures the knee pains within a week if taken daily with milk.
• It is herbal and has no proven side effects when taken in recommended doses.

Medicinal Uses of Safed musli

Male Sexual Problems:

Safed musli Churna is used in dose of 5 grams with misri and milk twice a day for treatment of premature ejaculation, sexual debility, impotence, and low libido.

Epilepsy:

The Musli powder is given in dose of 12 gm with one glass of milk twice a day for the treatment of epilepsy.

Peptic ulcers:

Fresh juice (Svarasa) obtained from the root of Musli (14 to 28 ml) is given twice a day OR powdered root of Musli 3 to 6 gm given with 100 ml milk twice a day cures peptic ulcers.

Brain tonic:

Equal parts of Svaras (juice) of root of Musli and leaf of Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) is given in dose of 7 to 14 ml with a glass of fresh milk twice a day in loss of memory and lack of confidence.

Edema, skin eruptions:

Powder of equal part of Kapikacchii/Kavanch beej (Mucuna pruriens) and Musli 3 to 6 gm is given with a glass of fresh milk and 25 to 50 gm Misri, twice a day in oedema (excess of watery fluid collecting in the cavities or tissues of the body) and eruptions (spot, rash, or other mark appearing suddenly on the skin).

Bleeding from lungs:

Powder of equal part of roots of Bala (Sida cordifolia Burm) Asvagandha, Musli and Punarnava (Boerhaavia diffusa) 1 to 3 gm is given with one glass milk, twice a day for the treatment of bleeding from lungs and haemoptysis (coughing up of blood).

External uses:

Musli pounded with goat’s milk and honey is applied on face for freckles.

Plant paste is applied for cooling in fever.

Panchatikta Ghrita/Ghrut is polyherbal Ayurvedic formulation. This medicine is prepared from five bitters, Ghee and Triphala. The five bitters are Neem, Patol, Kateri, Vasa, and Giloy. Panchatikta Ghrita balances Vata, Pitta and Kapha. It removes toxins from body. This medicine is especially useful for treating skin diseases.

Here is given more about Panchatikta Ghrita such as indication/therapeutic uses, composition and dosage.

Key Ingredients of Panchatikta Ghrita

Neem has been used for centuries as an effective agent for treating a variety of skin disorders. Internal intake of Neem has liver-supporting properties which can result in a clearer, more radiant complexion. It removes toxins from blood and shows beneficial effect in skin diseases.

Patola leaves are tonic, laxative, expels intestinal parasites, improves digestion, and is good for digestive system.

Giloy is antibacterial, antiviral, blood sugar lowering, live protective, tonic and it is a popular remedy for general debility, diabetes, fever, jaundice, skin diseases, rheumatism, urinary diseases, dyspepsia, gout, gonorrhoea and leucorrhoea.

Kantkari is useful in treating worms, cold, hoarseness of voice, fever, dysuria, enlargement of the liver, muscular pain etc. It is bitter and carminative.

Vasa has anti-allergic, antibacterial, antiviral anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, diuretic, and laxative properties. It is used in treatment of allergy, dermatosis, fever, fungus, gonorrhea, gout, rheumatism and worms.

Triphala is combination of three fruits taken in equal amount viz. Haritaki Teminalia chebula (Outer pericarp only), Baihitaki Teminalia belerica (Outer pericarp only), and Amalaki (Amla) Emblica offcinalis (without seed). It is a laxative that cures constipation, cleanses and tonifies the gastrointestinal tract and also detoxifies the whole body. It is tonic that improves digestion and assimilation. It is laxative, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-allergic properties.

Uses of Panchatikta Ghrita

• Panchatikta Ghrita removes toxins from body and is helpful in curing skin diseases and wounds. It is also effective in treatment of diseases that occur due to vitiation of vata, pitta and kapha.
• Dushta Vrana (Non-healing ulcer), Kushtha (Diseases of skin), Eczema
• Vata Vyadhi (Disease due to Vata dosha)
• Pittavyadhi (Disease of Pitta dosha)
• Kaphavikara (Disorders due to vitiation of Kapha dosha)
• Krimi (Helminthiasis/Worm infestation)
• Arsha (Haemorrhoids)
• Kasa (Cough)

Dosage of Panchatikta Ghrita

The recommended dosage of Panchatikta Ghrita is 6grams, twice a day with warm milk or water on empty stomach. Or take as directed by physician.

Where to buy

You can buy this medicine online or from medical stores.

In Ayurveda, Parwal, Patol or Pointed-gourd(Trichosanthes dioica) plant is used for treating several diseases such as constipation, fever, skin infection, wounds, low appetite and digestion problems. The leaves juice of plant is very effective in treatment of febrifuge, edema, alopecia and in sub acute cases of enlargement of liver. Cooked parval is helpful in improving appetite and digestion.

Parwal, is an extensively climbing herb with edible fruits and leaves. It is found throughout India, in many other Asian countries and Australia. It is mainly cultivated for its edible fruits which are known as parwal, palwal, parmal, patol, and potala in India. They are 5-15 cm long and have tapering ends. They have white and green strips along the length and white-brownish seeds inside.

Parwal is cooked and eaten as vegetable. It belongs to bitter gourd family, Cucurbitaceae. Cucurbitaceae is a very important vegetable family and to this family belongs Karela, Lauki, Tori, Pumpkin,

Cucumber, Bitter apple, and watermelon. The member of Cucurbit family are not only important economically but they are also rich medicinally. Many members of this family exhibit blood sugar lowering properties and used as anti-diabetic drug.

Pointed gourd or Parwal is a very easily available vegetable. We all are familiar with it as food. But it is used as medicine since time immemorial. Its edible leaves contain several important chemical constituent due to which they are used in treatment of skin diseases, liver disorders and accumulation of fluid inside body.

Scientific Classification

• KINGDOM Plantae
• DIVISION Magnoliophyta
• CLASS Magnoliopsida
• ORDER Cucurbitales
• FAMILY Cucurbitaceae
• GENUS Trichosanthes
• SPECIES dioica

VERNACULAR NAMES

• SANSKRIT NAMES:Patola, Kulaka, Tikta, Panduka, Karkashachchhada, Rajiphala, Panduphala, Rajeya, Amritaphala, Beejagarbha, Pratika, Kushthaha, Kasabhanjana, Meki, Pargavi, Parvara
• HINDI:Parwal, Parvar, Palval
• ENGLISH:Wild Snake-gourd, Pointed gourd
• BENGALI:Patol
• GUJRATI:Potala, Patal
• KANNADA:Kadupodavalu, Kaadu-padavala
• MALAYALAM:Patolam, Kattupatolam
• PUNJABI:Palwal, Parwal
• TAMIL:Peyu-padal, Kombu-pudalai
• TELUGU:Adavi-patola, Kommupotla
• ORIYA:Patal
• BHOJPURI, URDU AND AWADHI:Parora
• MAITHILI:Paror
• PAKISTAN:Palwal, Parol, Parwar, Petal
• BANGLADESH:Potol
• UNANI:Parwal

BOTANICAL DESCRIPTION

A dioecious climber with perennial root stock;Leaves are 7.5x5cm in size, ovate-oblong, cordate, acute, sinuatedentate, not lobed, rigid, rough on both surface and with a petiole of 2cm. Flowers are unisexual. Male flowers are not racemed but woolly outside. Calyx tube is 4.5cm long, narrow, teeth linear and erect. Anthers are free. Fruit is 5.9cm long, oblong or nearly spherical, acute, smooth and orange-red when ripe. Seeds are half-ellipsoid, compressed and corrugated on the margin.

Trichosanthes dioica is generally propagated by stem cuttings or root suckers.

DISTRIBUTION

It is extensively cultivated all over the warmer regions of India, particularly in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal and Assam for fruits.

It is also found in tropical Asia and Australia.

PARTS USED

Medicinally:Root, leaf, and fruit.

Food:Fruit

Ayurvedic Properties and Action on body

• Rasa (Taste):Tikta/Bitter
• Guna (Characteristics):Laghu/Light, Ruksha/dry
• Virya (Potency):Ushna/Hot
• Vipaka (Post Digestive Effect):Katu/Pungent
• Effect on Tridosha - Balances Kapha & Pitta

Action on body:Vedanasthapana/pain relieving, Keshya/good for hair, Vranashodhana/wound cleaning, Vranaropana/wound healing, rochan(Improve the taste), Dipana/ deepana (Digestive stimulant), Pachana (digest ama/toxins), Anulomana/downward movement of wind, Rechan/Cathartics, Pittasaraka (promote production of bile juice), Trishnanigrahana/Anti-thirst Krirnighna/anti-parasitic, Raktashodhaka (blood purifier), Hridya/Good for heart, Shothahara/reduces inflammation, Kaphaghna/reduces phlegm, Kushthaghna/ Curing skin lesion, Jwaraghna/curing fever, Balya/ Strength promoter, Vrishya/Improve the potency, Vishaghna/removes toxins from body.

Ayurvedic Medicines containing Parval/Patol

Punarnavadi kvatha (Picrorhiza kurroa, Boerhaavia diffusa, Azadiarchta indica, Tinospora cordifolia, Terminalia chebula, Berberis aristata, Trichosanthes dioica and Zingiber oficinale) is effective in management of viral hepatitis.

Patolavrisha Kwath: Patolvrish kwath is prepared by boiling leaves of patol and adusa. This decocotion is helpful in Hernia (antra-vriddhi).

Patoladi kvatha (decoction of a mixture of Trichosanthes dioica, Citrullus colocynthis, Gentiana kurroo, Terminalia chebula, Terminalia belerica, Emblica oficinalis, Picrorhiza kurroaand, Zingiber oficinale) is effective in treatment of various skin diseases.

Jatyadi ghrita: Jatyadi ghrita contains leaves of Patol plant along with many other ingredients. It is used as an ointment for treating wounds, burn injuries, boils, deep cuts, etc.

Chemical constituents

The fruits contain free amino acids, nicotinic acid, riboflavin, vitamin C, thiamine, 5-hydroxytryptamine;Root conatin Colocynthin, trichosanthin, hentriacontane;Plant and root contain cucurbita-5, 24-dienol.

Medicinal Properties of Roots, Leaves and Fruits

Roots

• Roots are febrifuge and drastic purgative.
• They are useful in jaundice, Anasarca (extreme generalized edema) and ascites.

Leaves

• Leaves have following medicinal properties:
• Febrifuge (reduces fever)
• Laxative (stimulates or facilitates evacuation of the bowels)
• Cholagogue (promotes the discharge of bile from the system, purging it downward)
• Aperient (relieve constipation)
• Expectorant (promotes the secretion of sputum by the air passages, used to treat coughs)
• Anthelmintic, alterative and tonic

The juice of leaves is tonic. Internal administration of this juice removes the blood impurities and thus helps in treatment of skin diseases. The leaves juice is used as febrifuge, in edema, alopecia, and in subacute cases of enlargement of liver. In Charaka Samhita, leaves and fruits are used for treating alcoholism and jaundice.

Fruit

The parwal vegetable, which we buy from market is the fruit of plant. The edible part of fresh Parwal contains about:moisture 92%, protein 2%, fat 0.3%, fiber 3%, carbohydrate 2.2%, minerals 0.5%, vitamin C 29mg/100g, carotene 153 mcg/100g, Magnesium 9mg/100g, sodium 2.6mg/100g, potassium 83mg/100g, copper 1.1mg/100g, and Sulphur 17, mg/100g.

The ripe fruit is sour to sweet, tonic, aphrodisiac, expectorant and removes blood impurities.

Parwal Vegetable has following medicinal properties

• Cooling
• Febrifuge (fever reducing)
• Antibilious (prevent or cure biliousness)
• Cholagogue (promotes the discharge of bile from the system, purging it downward)
• Aperient (mild purgative or laxative effect)
• Cholesterol lowering
• Antacid and anti-ulcer

Health Benefits of Eating Parwal

There are several benefits of eating parwal. Parwal is good source of carbohydrates, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B1 and B2, other nutrients and certain essential trace elements such as magnesium, potassium, copper, sulfur, chlorine, calcium, phosphorus, iron and fiber. It also contains flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides, terpenes and sterols. It is an excellent vegetable with medicinal properties for people with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, gastric ulcer, hyperacidity, and fever.

Parwal helps in lowering cholesterol activity and blood sugar. It also helps in treating alcoholism and jaundice.

• It is rich in fiber. Due to which its intake gives relief in constipation.
• It is low in calories, fat and cholesterol.
• It helps to improves appetite.
• It is helpful in aiding digestion.
• It reduces fever and stimulates liver.
• It has cooling effect on body.
• It is easily digestible.
• It is diuretic in nature.
• It purifies the blood. Due to which it is effective in treatment of diseases of skin.

Parwal is antipyretic, diuretic, cardiotonic and laxative.

Eating parval reduces excess cough and acidity in body.

Traditionally Parval are used in treatment of diarrhea, acid gastritis, obesity, eye diseases, oedema, fever, and sperrnatorrhoea.

Acharya Charak and Sushruta used Parwal as cooked vegetable for treatment of fever, loose motions, urinary diseases, fluid retention in body, skin diseases, internal bleeding, and digestive disorders. The soup of parwal is prescribed for alcoholism.

You can daily eat cooked Parval. But don't make it too spicy. You can make Parwal-Bhujiya or parwal curry with less salt and spices. Regular eating of Parwal vegetable helps to gain weight, immunity, health and gives relief in various abdominal diseases. It also has beneficial effect in heart diseases.

Medicinal Uses of Leaves and Fruits/Parwal

Leaves

• Leaves are used in treatment of enlarged liver and spleen, hemorrhoids, fistula in ano, fevers, leprosy, intrinsic hemorrhage, erysipelas, alopecia, diseases of mouth, inflammations and wounds.
• The juice of leaves is applied on scalp for 21 days to treat baldness.
• In case of excess cough, decoction of leaves is beneficial. It is prepared by boiling Parval leaves 6g and dry ginger powder in one glass water for few minutes. This is filtered and taken twice a day.
• The leaves of plant are boiled in water and this decoction is taken internally for hyperacidity and biliousness.
• In case of boils, wounds, the paste of leaves is applied topically.
• In raktpitta (variety of bleeding disorder that occur due to excessive use of food which has hot, acidic potency), parwal leaves juice should taken in dose of 5-10 ml with honey.
• The decoction of tender shoots with sugar improves digestion.
• The leaf juice is rubbed over the chest in liver congestion and over the whole body in intermittent fevers.
• Dosage of fresh leaves juice:10 – 20 ml per day;Powder:3-6 grams;decoction:25 – 50 ml per day.

Fruits/Parwal/Pointed Gourd

In hyperacidity, take turmeric powder, leaf of pointed-gourd/parwal, and fruit rind of in equal parts and make the powder. A dose of 3 to 6 g should be taken with the fresh juice of ginger and 30 drops of papaya latex twice/day.

The fresh juice of the unripe fruit is often used as a cooling and laxative adjunct to some alterative medicines.

The fruit is used as a remedy for spermatorrhoea.

In bilious fever, a decoction of patola leaves and coriander in equal parts is given. The fruit in combination with other drugs is prescribed in snakebite and scorpion sting.

What Scientific Studies Say

Lowers Blood sugar, total cholesterol, and triglyceride levels

Sharma and Pant have showed influence of alcoholic extract of whole fruit of T. dioica on blood sugar, serum lipids, lipoproteins, and fecal sterols in normal albino rabbits. Effects of oral administration of 2 ml per day of suspension (in water) of alcoholic extract of whole fruit of T. dioica (2%) with basal diet for 4 weeks have been studied in the normal albino rabbits. It was observed that this extract lowered the blood sugar, total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglyceride levels and increased high density lipoprotein cholesterol, phospholipid, and fecal sterol levels.

Cholesterol lowering effect of fruits

Sharmila et al. (2007) observed cholestero llowering activity of the aqueous fruit extract of

Trichosanthes dioica Roxb. in normal and streptozotocin diabetic rats. The administration of extract of whole fruit of Trichosanthes dioica (2%) with basal diet for four weeks lowered the blood sugar, total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and increased the high density lipoprotein cholesterol, phospholipid and faecal sterol levels.

Blood Sugar lowering and Antidiabetic effect of leaves

Rai et al. have showed that in rats with streptozotocin (STZ) induced severe diabetes mellitus, aqueous extract of T. dioica fruits dose of 1000 mg/kg body weight daily once for 28 days reduced the levels of fasting blood glucose, postprandial glucose, asparate amino transferase, alanine amino transferase, alkaline phosphatase, creatinine, urine sugar, and urine protein, whereas total protein and body weight were increased. Sharmila et al. have observed cholesterol-lowering activity of the aqueous fruit extract of T. dioica Roxb. in normal and STZ diabetic rats.

The study proves the leaves of plant is hypoglycemic and are highly antidiabetic.

Useful in Ulcers

Tripathi and Pathak, (1975) evaluated another Patoladi kasaya which consisted of only four herbs namely Sunthi, Patola, Amrta, Kutaki in the 33 case study of duodenal ulcer. It kept the patients symptoms/complication free when given in dose of 40 ml/day in two divided doses. It normalized both hyper & hypoacidity of these patient.

Rai and Tripathi, (1968) showed that Patoladi kasaya a polyherbal formulation, consisted of 11 herbs viz., Patola, Haritaki, Bibhitaka, Amalaki, Kutaki, Cirayata, Amrta, Pittapapada, Sunthi, & Bhrngaraja exhibited complete improvement in 50% cases & partial improvement in 40% cases with peptic ulcer (10 patients case study).

Tripathi and Pathak, (1975) evaluated another Patoladi kasaya which consisted of only four herbs namely Sunthi, Patola, Amrta, Kutaki in the 33 case study of duodenal ulcer. It kept the patients symptoms/complication free when given in dose of 40 ml/day in two divided doses. It normalized both hyper & hypoacidity of these patient.

Aryavansha et al. (1981) studied the efficacy of single herb patola/parwal in 20 patients with duodena lulcer. Effectivity of patola in duodenal ulcer was found 45% excellent response out of 20 cases.

Liver protective

The whole plant has liver protective activities. Ghaisas et al. (2008) showed hepatoprotectiveactivity of aqueous and ethanolic extract of Trichosanthes dioica (whole plant) in ferrous sulphate-induced liver injury. Ethanolic and Aqueous extracts of Trichosanthes dioica at different doses (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) and silymarin (100 mg/kg) were administered orally for 10 days.

The groups treated with 400 mg/kg aqueous and ethanolic extract showed significant reduction in AST, ALT, ALP level.The pretreatment with Trichosanthes dioica extracts showed profound histopathological protection to liver cells as evident from histopathological studies.

Hence it can be concluded that T. dioica Roxb. has significant hepatoprotective activity.

REFERENCES

1. Rai PK, Jaiswal D, Singh RK, Gupta RK, Watal G. Glycemic Properties of Trichosanthes dioica leaves. Pharmaceutical biology. 2008;46:894–9

2. Sharmila BG, Kumar G, Rajasekhara PM. Cholesterol-lowering activity of the aqueous fruit extract of Trichosanthes dioica in normal and streptozotocin diabetic rats. J Clin Dia Res. 2007;1:561–9.

3. Sharma G, Pant MC. Influence of alcoholic extract of whole fruit of T. dioica on blood sugar, serum lipids, lipoproteins and faecal sterols in normal albino rabbits. Indian J Clin Biochem. 1992;1:53–6.

4. 11. Ghaisas MM, Tanwar MB, Ninave PB, Navghare VV, Deshpande T, Hepatoprotective activity of aqueous & ethanolic extract of T. dioica in ferrous sulphate induced liver injury. Pharmacologyonline, 3:127-135, (2008).

5. Sharmila BG, Kumar G, Rajasekhara PM, Cholesterol-lowering activity of the aqueous fruit extract of Trichosanthes dioica in normal and streptozotocin diabetic rats. J Clin Dia Res, 1(4):561-569, (2007)

6. Sharma RK, Chatterji S, Rai DK, Mehta S, Rai PK, Singh RK, Watal G, Sharma B, Antioxidant activities and phenolic contents of the aqueous extracts of some Indian medicinal plants. Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, 3(11):944-948, (2009).

7. Rai DK, Rai PK, Jaiswal D, Sharma B, Watal G, Effect of water extract of Trichosanthes dioica fruits in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. Indian Journal ofClinical Biochemistry, 23 (4):387-390 (2008).

8. Chandrasekhar B, Mukherjee B, Mukherjee SK, Blood sugar lowering effect of Trichosanthes dioica Roxb. in experimental rat models. Int J Cru Drug Res, 26:102– 106, (1988).

9. Hypoglycemic effect of aqueous extract of Trichosanthes dioica in normal and diabetic rats Shalini Adiga, K. L. Bairy, A. Meharban, I. S. R. Punita.

Watermelon is a well-known juicy fruit or vegetable available during summer season. As the name itself suggests it is the melon full of water. It is juicy, refreshing, tasty, nutritious, full of natural anti-oxidants and vitamins. They are the safest natural diuretics. Diuretics are those agents which increase the urinary output and electrolyte excretion. They are useful in various diseases such as high blood pressure, fluid retention, oedema, acute and chronic renal failure, sciatica, kidney stones, lymphatic swelling, liver disorders and many more diseases. Natural diuretics work by stimulating the kidney to produce more urine by reducing the amount of water and salts that the kidney reabsorbs into the bloodstream. This improves the functioning of tissues and organs, and also, prevents fluids from accumulating in tissue matrices.

By Steve Evans (Watermelons) [CC BY 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

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Watermelon belongs to the gourd family (pumpkin/cucumber family) called Cucurbitaceae and the genus Citrullus. They grow on vine that lay on the ground like other members of this plant family. The leaves of plant are used as folk medicine to treat blood vomiting. For this purpose the leaves are ground to make paste or the juice is administrated.

Scientific Classification of Watermelon

Kingdom- Plantae

Division- Magnoliophyta

Class- Magnoliopsida

Order- Cucurbitales

Family- Cucurbitaceae

Genus- Citrullus

Species- C. lanatus

Latin name: Citrullus lanatus

Vernacular names in India

AYURVEDIC: Kalinga

UNANI: Tarbuz

SIDDHA: Poiychaviral, Tharbuzapalam

ENGLISH: Water melon

HINDI: Tarbuj

BENGALI: Tarbuz

MALAYALAM: Thannimathan

TAMIL: Pitcha, Dharbusini

Nutrition in Watermelon

Watermelon contains 96% water, no cholesterol of dietary significance and only a small amount of fat. It is low in calories and sodium. It is good source of vitamin A, Vitamin C and potassium.

About 78% of watermelon fruit is edible. The edible part contains moisture 96%, Protein 0.2%, Fat 0.2%, fiber 0.2%, carbohydrates 3.3%, minerals 0.3%. In per 100 grams, Calcium is 9mg, phosphorus 12mg, iron 7.9mg, magnesium 13mg, sodium 27 mg, potassium 160 mg, copper 0.05mg, Sulphur 42mg, and chlorine 21 mg.

Benefits of Watermelon Seeds

• The seeds of watermelon are good for brain and heart.
• They are excellent sources of protein (both essential and nonessential amino acids) and oil.
• They are cooling, demulcent, diuretic, vermifuge and nutritive.

Recent scientific studies have shown substance extracted from seeds has a definite action in dilating the blood vessels, which results in lowering the blood pressure. Another reason why these seeds are good for heart is their richness in potassium, magnesium and diuretic action.

In high blood pressure, as a home remedy, the seeds kernel of watermelon and poppy seeds are ground separately and they are mixed in equal amount. This powder is taken in dose of 3 grams every morning on empty stomach with water and at night. This reduces blood pressure and headaches. This preparation is also helpful in treating insomnia. It should be taken for 3-4 weeks as required.

The milky juice extracted from the seeds by grinding them and straining with a muslin cloth on oral intake lowers high blood pressure.

Watermelon seeds are also useful for renal calculi/stones due to their diuretic action.

Health Benefits of Watermelon

Watermelon are available during summer season. They are cool in potency and eating them helps to reduce the heat inside body. Eating watermelon helps to replenish the electrolytes which we lose through sweating. It also hydrates body and quenches the thirst. This fruit is fat free but helps in energy production. Watermelon is cooling, diuretic and nutritious. It is good for heart, brain, urinary system and digestive system. Watermelon is helpful in many health ailments that occur during summer season like burning sensation in urine, burning sensations in whole body, excessive thirst, fevers, irritability, summer heat, sunstroke UTI (urinary tract infection) etc.

There are several benefits of eating watermelon. Few of them are given below.

• It has diuretic properties. It is the safest natural diuretic. It stimulates the production of urine and thus gives relief in burning sensation of urine.
• It quenches the thirst and balances pitta inside body. Excess pitta inside body is responsible for burning sensation.
• It regulates the acid-base balance inside body.
• It removes toxins from blood.
• It is rich in carotenoids including lycopene, phytofluene, phytoene, beta-carotene, and lutein.
• It is high in lycopene and thus helps to prevent cancer. It contains anti-oxidants and certain anticancer compounds.
• It is helpful in lowering the cholesterol level.
• It is excellent for all the diseases of the heart.
• In UTI, juice of watermelon with sugar and cumin seeds (jeera) gives beneficial results.
• It is also useful in weight reduction diets as they have high water content with a high satiety value.
• It is good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B6, magnesium and lycopene.

Caution while eating water melon and Side-effects

1. Do not eat watermelon empty stomach in the morning.
2. Never overeat watermelon.
3. Do not drink water after eating watermelon.
4. Excess intake of watermelon cause more urine production but lesser stool output. Watermelon should be avoided by people with weak digestion, asthma, and excessive urination.

Vidang is used in Ayurveda especially for treating intestinal worms. It is the main herb of Ayurveda that effectively treats intestinal parasites (tapeworm, ring worm). The dried mature fruits or seeds are used for this purpose. These seeds look similar to white pepper seeds. They have brownish-black colour and measure about 2-4 mm in diameter. Their surface is warty with a beak like projection at apex. The outer covering or pericarp is brittle and encloses a single seed covered with thin membrane.

Acharya Sushrut described the seeds of Vidang as anthelmintic, alterative and tonic. He recommended their use along with liquorice/mulheti root for the purpose of strengthening the body. Its use for expelling intestinal parasites is also recommended by Acharya Charak and Vagbhatta.

For expelling intestinal worms, the powder of the seeds is given with honey, or as an infusion of the seeds. It is given early in the morning empty stomach followed by some purgative.

Taxonomical classification

• KINGDOM:Plantae
• PHYLUM:Angiosperms
• ORDER:Ericales
• FAMILY:Myrsinaceae
• GENUS:Embelia
• SPECIES:ribes
• BOTANICAL NAME:Embelia ribes Burm. f.
• SYNONYM:Embelia glandulifera Wight, Samara ribes Kurz

Vernacular Names

SANSKRIT Amodha, Amogha, Anthunashana Bhasmaka, Bidanga, Chibatandula, Chitra, Chitrabija Chitra-tandula, , Chitratandula, Citratandula, Gahara, Gardabha, Ghosha, J vidangaka, Jantughna, Jantunashaka, Kairala, Kapali, Kevala, Krimighna, Krimiha, Krimikantaka, Krimiripu, Krimishetru, Krmighna, Krmiripu, Mogha, Mrigagamini, Pavaka, Rasayana, Shudratandula, Suchitrabija, Tandula, Tundula, Tunduliyaka, Vara, Vatari, Vella, Vellah, Vidanga, Vidangah, Vidangam, Vrishanashana, Vrishnasana

• HINDI Baba-rang, Baberang, Bhabhiramg, Karkannie, vaividang Vayvidamg, Wawrung
• BENGALI Bhaibirrung, Biranga, vidang
• KANNADA Amogha, Vayi-vulanga, Vayubaliga, Vayuvilanga, Vidanga, Vaayu vilanga, Vilanga, Varana, Vaayu-vilanga, Vayivilanga
• MALYALAM Tiriitticanni, Tiruvittikanni, Pu-valli, Vayivalannam, Vilal, Vayvilankam, Visalam, Vishaul
• MARATHI Ambti, Baavdinga, Karkannie, Karkunnie, Vaavadinga, Vayvarang Vvavadinga, Waiwarang
• ORIYA Vidanga TAMILKattukodi, Vellal, Varnanai Vai vilangam, Vaivitankam, Vayu-vilangam, Vayu-vilamga, Vayivilangam, Vayvilankam PUNJABI Bavidang GUJARAT Bavidang
• TELUGU Potosul, Vaividungalu, Vayivilangamu, Vayuvilangam-chettu, Vellal, Vidangamu, Vilangamu, Vayi-vitangamu, VyivilangamuURDU Baobadang, Baobarang (babrang)
• SIDDHA:Vaayvidangam, Keralam, Vamanai, Vellal
• ENGLISH:Embelia, Embelia fruit

Habitat

Embelia ribes is found in the hilly parts of India, from the central and lower Himalayas down to Konkan, Deccan, Western Ghats and South India. It is commonly seen in places up to the height of 1500 m.

It is also found in Sri Lanka, Singapore, Southern China, south to Indonesia and some parts of Africa.

Botanical Details

A large, Climbing, creeper shrub with long slender, flexible, brittle stem and terete branches;bark studded with lenticels. Leaves simple, alternate, elliptic-lanceolate, gland dotted, short and obtusely acuminate, entire, shiny above;Flowers small, greenish yellow to whitish pink colored;Fruits about the size of white pepper, globose, wrinkled or warty, dull red to nearly black, a short pedicel often present, usually one seeded;outer covering of the fruit is fragile and inside the seed is spotted;single seed is horny with a mildew like appearance due to minute, crystalline powder, depressed at base.

Medicinal Action and Uses

Fruits:Ascaricidal, anthelmintic, purifying, brain tonic, digestive, carminative, antibacterial, stomachic, diuretic, contraceptive, rejuvenating, alterative, stimulant, laxative, sweat causing, and tonic.

They are useful in intestinal worms, skin diseases, leprosy, pruritus, nervous debility, dyspepsia, jaundice, flatulence, colic, constipation, strangury, tumors, asthma, bronchitis, dental caries, difficult breathing, cardiac diseases, psychological disorders, ringworm, fever, emaciation and general debility.

Seeds:They are used as local application in ringworm and other skin diseases.

Roots:They are astringent, stomachic, and useful in toothache, stomach ache, gas, and indigestion. Leaves:They are astringent, purifying, cough reducing. They are useful in skin diseases.

Parts used for medicinal purpose

For medicinal purpose the berries/fruits, leaves and roots of plant are used. The plant is pungent, astringent, hot, and reduces phlegm and pitta. It has action on plasma, blood, excretory and digestive system.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action on body

Rasa (Taste):Tikta/Bitter, Katu (pungent)

Guna (Characteristics):Laghu/Light, Ruksha/Dry, Tikshna/Sharp

Virya (Potency):Ushna/Hot

Vipaka (Post Digestive Effect):Katu/Pungent

Actiom:Krimighna

Doshaghnata:Kapha-vata-shamak

Constituents of dried mature fruits:Benzoquinones, alkaloid (Christembine), tannin and essential oil.

Therapeutic uses:Shula, Krimiroga, Udararoga, Adhman

Dose - 3-5 g of the fruit in powder form.

Traditional Therapeutic Uses

Vidang is used in Ayurveda since ancient time to treat diseases of skin, abdomen, excessive phlegm and intestinal parasites. It has numerous medicinal properties and among them the important ones are anthelmintic, carminative, antibacterial, antibiotic, hypoglycemic, and antifertility properties.

It has anti-implantation, anti-ovulatory, anti-spermatogenic, and anti-androgenic activities. The plant possess anti estrogenic and weak presentational activity in rats and causes a disturbance in the hormonal levels. It have a direct action on the behavioral system which act on hypothalamus and releasing factors thereby interfering the secretion of gonadotropins.

The properties and uses of plant are mentioned in Materia Medica of Ayurveda. According to Bhavaprakasha nighnatu, Vidang is pungent, removes morbidity, improves blood circulation, stimulates appetite, acts against phlegm, makes the body light, and kills worms of all types.

Rajanighantu describes it as pungent, hot, light, enhances balance between wind and phlegm, beneficial in anorexia and improves digestive power.

The powder of Fruit expels tapeworms within 6-24 hours. Fruit powder taken with curd in empty stomach is effective against giardia (intestinal infection caused by a microscopic parasite).

In skin diseases, insect bites, scorpion stings and swelling the paste of fruits is applied externally on affected areas.

Formulation and dosage

Vidanga Churna:2-4 grams twice a day.

Vidangarishtha:10-15 ml with equal amount of water twice a day.

Seed/Fruit powder:2-5 grams, with 5 grams honey for two consecutive days empty stomach in the morning. A suitable purgative such as castor oil should be taken hours after intake of powder.

Side effects if Vidanga

Embelia ribes has following side-effects. Please keep these points in mind while using Vidang or a medicine containing it as an ingredient.

The fruits significantly affects male fertility. It is an antifertility agent. It impairs Spermatogenesis and reduces sperm count to level of infertility. Though anti-spermatogenic changes are found to be reversible without any toxic effects.

The plant parts also show anti-fertility effects in females. It has effects that changes the uterine environment which inhibits the process of implantation. It has anti-implantation and anti-ovulatory effects. It also has oxytocic effects (Hastens or facilitates childbirth, especially by stimulating contractions of the uterus).

• The seeds of plants kills the sperms.
• Embelin, isolated from the berries, shows significant anti-implantation and post-coital antifertility activity.
• Root extract is prescribed as contraceptive.
• Its use can cause abortion.
• The use of this plant and its parts can cause sexual debility.

Isabgol or psyllium husk is commonly used for getting relief from constipation. It is basically a dietary fiber supplement which is a bulk-forming laxative. Psyllium husk is not fermented in the gut but swells by absorbing the water which increases the stool output. It relieves constipation by mechanically stimulating the intestinal peristalsis. The German Pharmacopoeia indicates that ispaghula seeds are capable of absorbing at least 9 times its own weight in water. The British Pharmacopoeia indicates at least 12 times. Psyllium regulates the function of large bowel.

Isabgol is not only beneficial in treating constipation and removing of body toxins but it is also effective in treatment of many other disorders. The studies are now proving other medicinal uses of this plant derived natural product.

Psyllium husk is known as Ashvagola or Ashwakarna in Ayurveda which literally means one which have ears like horse (Ashva=horse;Gola=Round and Karna=Ears). It named so perhaps due to appearance of seeds which are concave and elongated like horse ear. Isabgol is its Persian name (asp=Horse, and Ghol=Round). It is known as Aspaghol in Unani, and Isapppa in Siddha.

Other common names

Hindi:Isabgol, Isabgol Bhusi, Isapagula husk, Ispaghula

English:Spogel Seed husk, Psyllium, Ispagol Psyllium, Plantago ispagol, Blond psyllium

Arabic:Bazre-Qutuna

Persian and Urdu:Aspiyoos, Shikamdarida, Aspghol Aspaghol Musallam, Suboos-e-Aspaghol

Siddha:Isapppa

In Ayurveda, Psyllium is considered cooling, pungent and astringent. It balances all three humors Vata, Pitta and Kapha. It decreases the swelling of digestive tract and gives relief in constipation and piles. But as it high on fiber, initially may cause gas.

About The Plant Plantago ovata

It is a stemless or sub-caulescent soft hairy or woolly annual herb which attains a height of 30-45 cm. Leaves narrowly linear or filiform appearing whorled due to the short terete stem. The spikes are 1.2-4 cm long and about 0.5 cm broad, cylindrical to ovoid in shape and bear between 45-70 flowers.

Flowers are bisexual, tetramerous, anemophilous and protogynous and as such favoring out crossing. The fruits are ellipsoid capsules, about 8 mm long, obtuse, membranous, glabrous, upper half coming off as a blunt conical lid.

Seeds are ovoid-oblong, boat-shaped, smooth, rosy-white being concave on one side and convex on the other. The concave side of the seed is covered with a thin white membrane produced by fusing of outer layer of ovule together with the inner epidermis, forming the seed coat. The seed epidermis is made of polyhedral cells whose walls are thickened by a secondary deposit which is the source of mucilage.

On mechanical milling, the coating of seed provides the husk, a membranous covering of the seed, white to light pink in colour, translucent and odorless.

Parts used:Whole Seeds or Husk of the Seeds.

SCIENTIFIC CLASSIFICATION

Psyllium plant is small, stemless, and grows annually. The plant belong to Genus Plantago and family Plantaginaceae. There are about 200 species in this genus and ovata and psyllium are commercially cultivated for obtaining the psyllium husk.

KINGDOM:Plantae – Plants

SUBKINGDOM:Tracheobionta – Vascular plants

SUPERDIVISION:Spermatophyta – Seed plants

DIVISION:Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants

CLASS:Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons

SUBCLASS:Asteridae

ORDER:Plantaginaceae

FAMILY:Plantaginaceae – Plantain family

GENUS:Plantago L. – plantain P

SPECIES:Plantago ovata Forssk. – Desert Indian wheat

What is Isabgol or psyllium husk

Psyllium/Ispaghula/Isabgol is obtained from a plant called Plantago ovata (Synonym:P. ispaghula). This plant is indigenous to the Mediterranean region specially Southern Europe, North Africa and West Asia.

It is now cultivated in many other countries e.g. West Asia, America, Mediterranean countries and Russia. In India it is mainly cultivated in north Gujarat, south-western Rajasthan, Punjab and Haryana states.

The psyllium husk is derived from the seeds of plant. The outer coat of the seeds is separated by crushing and winnowing.

Composition of Isabgol or psyllium husk

Psyllium husk contains a high proportion of hemicelluloses, composed of a xylan backbone linked with arabinose rhamnose and galacturonic acid units (arabinoxylans). It also contains Carbohydrates, Protein, Tannin, Glycosides, Fixed oil, Linoleic acid, Palmetic acids, Iron, Zinc, Potassium and Sodium.

How Psyllium Husk Works

Psyllium has been found to be practically unaffected by the digestive enzymes of stomach and bacteria and passes unchanged through the intestine.

It pass through the small intestine to large intestine. There the husk absorbs water and swells approximately ten times. This causes formation of soft stool bulk and since it is jelly-like so it moves easily. This further causes normal stimulation for bowel.

It takes about half day to cause motion after consuming husk.

Medicinal Properties of Isabgol or psyllium husk

• Non-habit forming laxative, diuretic
• Nourishing, cooling
• Anti-inflammatory, expectorant, antitussive
• Antihyperglycaemic, Lowers blood sugar absorption
• Anti-peptic ulcer, Antidysentric, Anti-oxidant
• Bad cholesterol lowering
• Blood pressure lowering
• Lipid lowering
• Restores and maintains bowel regularity
• Cleanses the colon

In a study by Anderson (2000), a meta-analysis of 8 clinical studies was done, which included 384 and 272 mild to moderate hypercholesterolemic people receiving either 10.2 grams/day psyllium or cellulose placebo, respectively, over a period of 8 weeksor more, along with a low fat diet. They found that psyllium intake adjunctive to a low-fat diet loweredtotal serum cholesterol by 4% and LDL cholesterol by 7%.

In another meta-analysis of 12 studies, which included a total of 404 mild to moderate hypercholesterolemic people taking 3 g or less of psyllium per day, psyllium intake was found to lower total cholesterol and LDL by 5% and 9% respectively.

The majority of recent clinical studies show psyllium appears to modestly lower total cholesterol levels by anywhere from 3-8% and LDL levels by about 5-13% in mild to moderately hypercholesterolemic patients, with the actual effects depending on the various factors involved in each study.

Health Benefits of Isabgol (psyllium husk)

Laxative, useful in Constipation

It is a gentle natural bulk-forming laxative that promote the regulation of large bowel function and gives relief in constipation. It is high in both fiber and mucilage (10–30%). Mucilage is clear, colourless, gelling agent that absorbs the water and increases in volume. So Isabgol softens the stool and at the same time lubricates the passage for easy removal of feces.

Useful in Diarrhea

It is also beneficial in diarrhea as it slows down the gastric emptying time and colon transit time. In case of diarrhea 2 teaspoonful of husk should be given with cold water mixed with lemon juice.

Blood pressure lowering properties

It shows blood pressure lowering properties and is useful in hypertension.

Study has shown its blood pressure lowering effect in a 6 months trial on hypertensive and obese patients (Cicero et al., 2007). But some other studies have not shown any changes in blood pressure (Bell et al., 1990). More studies are needed.

But such studies do prove that its use is completely safe and poses no health risk if taken while suffering from high blood pressure and diabetes.

Useful in Bowel Diseases

It is useful in treatment and prevention of following bowel diseases:

Diverticulosis (condition in which very small (5 to 10 millimeters) in diameter pouches/diverticula form in the wall of the colon or large intestine)

Irritable bowel syndrome (condition involving recurrent abdominal pain and diarrhea or constipation, often associated with stress, depression, anxiety, or previous intestinal infection.)

Inflammatory bowel disease (group of inflammatory conditions of the colon and small intestine. Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are the principal types of inflammatory bowel disease)

In chronic colitis psyllium should be given in dose of 2 teaspoonful, 3-4 times a day, with buttermilk or curd.

Useful in Piles

It is very useful for dry and bleeding piles. It prevents and cures constipation. It also cures congestion in the liver and have cooling effect on body. In piles you may take about 2 teaspoonful of this husk with water or buttermilk three times a day for four-five months.

Blood Sugar Lowering, Useful in Diabetes

It regulates blood glucose equilibrium and Lowers blood glucose by allowing slow sugar absorption. Intake of psyllium husk in dose of 5 grams twice a day, half an hour before breakfast and dinner is effective in significantly reducing Fasting plasma glucose FBS, and HbA1c (Glycosylated hemoglobin). A person with diabetes can daily take this husk for lowering the sugar level. It is safe, effective and natural.

Lowers Blood Cholesterol Level

It lowers blood cholesterol level (especially LDL cholesterol). It significantly increases high-density lipoprotein/HDL/HDL-cholesterol. HDL cholesterol, is the good cholesterol. It should be more for good health and lowering the risk of heart disease. LDL cholesterol/ low-density lipoprotein is the bad cholesterol. It is important to decrease the bad cholesterol and increase the good cholesterol. Also the consumption of husk significantly decreased the LDL/HDL ratio.

Lipid Lowering

It has blood lipid lowering property. A study (Garvin et al., 1965) show supplementation with 9.6 g psyllium/day for 5 week reduced serum triglycerides by 9%.

It has favorable effect on the lipoprotein profile.

Reducesplasma triacylglycerol

In a study, in men with coronary heart disease after a low-saturated-fat, low-cholesterol diet, the incorporation of psyllium husk significantly reduced plasma triacylglycerol concentrations by 6.7%.

Probiotic, Antioxidant

It has probiotic effect. It promotes the growth of good bacteria in human gut.

Dosage of Isabgol or Psyllium husk

For constipation:

Adult 1-2 teaspoonful 2-3 times a day with a glass of water, milk or curd.

Children Half teaspoonful 2-3 times a day with a glass of water, milk or curd.

The powdered seed husk must be stirred in 150 ml water and be drunk immediately, after consumption, a large amount of water should be consumed.

FDA has recently approved the use of the following statement on psyllium products:“3g to 12g of soluble fiber from psyllium seed husk when included as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease".

Few Important points about Isabgol

It is over-the-counter OTC completely natural bulk laxative.

It can even be taken in pregnancy and breast feeding.

It is safe, well tolersated, in persons with type II diabetes. It improves glycemic control.

It should always be taken in recommended dose and with milk or water . Cholesterol reduction needs higher doses for optimal effects. For constipation lower dose will do.

It is high in fiber and absorbs water so it is important to increase the fluid intake.

Use of Blond Psyllium husk up to six months did not clinically alter vitamin or mineral status in a review of eight human trials. It did not reduce absorption of calcium. (J AmGeriatr Soc, 43, 1995;Am J Clin Nutr, 71, 2000;Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2007.)

Sudden increases in dietary fiber may cause temporary gas and bloating. Start with low dose and one dose per day and increase gradually to allow the gastrointestinal tract to adapt. This also reduces the occurrence of its side-effects.

Possible Side-Effect of Psyllium Supplementation

• It may alter nutrient and drug absorption. To avoid drug interaction it should be taken at least 2 hours before or after other medications.
• It interacts and decreases absorption of Carbamazepine, lithium, warfarin and Iron.
• It may reduce the appetite.
• It reduces the blood glucose level and blood pressure.

It is high in fiber so the its fermentation by anaerobic bacteria in the large intestine and may cause increase bloating and flatulence, abdominal pain, cramping and diarrhea.

Person suffering from severe abdominal pain, infections, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, esophageal stricturing or obstruction, chronic bowel narrowing or obstruction, and bowel surgery should not take psyllium.

Allergic reactions to ingestion or inhalation of Plantago products have been reported, especially after previous occupational exposure to these products.

It should always be taken with sufficient amounts of liquid, e.g. Take 150 ml water/5 g psyllium. Failure to do so may result in swelling of the seed coats and blockage of the esophagus, which may cause choking. Intestinal obstruction may occur if an adequate fluid intake is not maintained.

• It should never be taken in dried powder form as that may cause bowel or oesophageal obstruction.
• If bleeding, or no response and abdominal pain occur 48 h after ingesting the seed coats, treatment should be discontinued and medical advice sought.
• Do not take bulking agents when laying down.
• Do not use with anti-peristaltics.

REFERENCES

1. Anderson JW., et al. Cholesterol-lowering effects of psyllium intake adjunctive to diet therapy in men and women with hypercholesterolemia:meta-analysis of 8 controlled trials. Am J Clin Nutr. 2000;71:472-9.

2. Anderson JW., et al. Long-term cholesterol-lowering effects of psyllium as an adjunct to diet therapy in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. Am J Clin Nutr. 2000;71:1433-1438.

3. Olson BH., et al. Psyllium-enriched cereals lower blood total cholesterol and LDLcholesterol, but not HDL cholesterol, in hypercholesterolemic adults:results of a meta-analysis. J Nutr. 1997;127:1973-80.

4. Tai ES., et al. A study to assess the effect of dietary supplementation with soluble fiber (Minolest) on lipid levels in normal subjects with hypercholesterolemia. Ann Acad Med Singapore. 1999;28:209-13.

5. Davidson MH, et al. Long-term effects of consuming foods containing psyllium seed husk on serum lipids in subjects with hypercholesterolemia. Am J Clin Nutr. 1998;67:367-

6. MacMahon, et al. Ispaghula husk in the treatment of hypercholesterolaemia:a double-blindcontrolled study. J Cardiovasc Risk. 1998;5:167-72.

7. Van Rosendaal GM., et al. Effect of time of administration on cholesterol-lowering bypsyllium:a randomized cross-over study in normocholesterolemic or slightly hypercholesterolemic subjects. Nutr J. 2004;3:17.

8. FDA Talk Paper. 1998.

9. Jenkins DJ, et al. Soluble fiber intake at a dose approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for a claim of health benefits:serum lipid risk factors for cardiovascular disease assessed in a randomized controlled crossover trial. Am J Clin Nutr. 2002;75:834-9.

10. American Diabetes Association (2005) Clinical Practice Recommendations 2005. Diabetes Care 28, S1–S79.

11. Gelissen IC, Brodie B and Eastwood MA (1994) Effect of Plantago ovata (psyllium) husk and seeds on sterol metabolism:studies in normal and ileostomy subjects. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 59, 395-400.

12. Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine. Standardization of single drugs of Unani medicine – part I. New Delhi, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, 1987.

13. European pharmacopoeia, 3rd ed. Suppl. 2001. Strasbourg, Council of Europe, 2000.

14. Kritchevsky D et al. Infl uence of psyllium preparations on plasma and liver lipids of cholesterol-fed rats. Artery, 1995, 21:303–311.

15. Heaney RP, Weaver CM. Effect of psyllium on absorption of co-ingested calcium. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 1995, 43:261–263.

16. WHO monographs on selected medicinal plants, World Health Organization, Geneva, Vol. 1, 1999, 202-206.

17. WHO monographs on selected medicinal plants, World Health Organization, Geneva, Vol. 3, 2007, 268-282.

Khubkalan or Jangli sarson is the seed of plant Sisymbrium irio Linn. belonging to family Brassicaceae. This plant is generally found as an annual or biennial herb in moist soil. In India it is grown in Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana and from Rajasthan to Uttar Pradesh. It is also found in many parts of the world. The English name of this plant is London rocket. It got this name when it became abundant in London after the Great Fire of London in 1666. It is also distributed in Arab, America, South America, Europe, North Africa and Australia.

Khubkalan is the Unani-tibb name of the plant. Unani/Yunani medicine is a form of traditional medicine practiced in countries of the Middle East and South Asia. In Unani, the seeds of plant are prescribed for treating coughs, chest congestion, fever, asthma, loss of voice etc. It is also indicated in typhoid, rheumatism, to detoxify liver and spleen, reduce swelling/inflammation, rheumatism, clean wounds and piles. Its description is not found in ancient classical Ayurvedic texts. Khubkalan seeds have pungent taste and appearance is like mustard plant. It leaves are edible.

General Information

Common names

• ENGLISH:Hedge-Mustard, London Rocket, Desert mustard
• HINDI:Khub Kalaan, Khaaksee, Khaaksi, Khubkala
• MARATHI:Ranteekhee
• PUNJABI:Jangli sarson, Maktrusa, Maktaroosaa
• TELUGU:Jeevakamu
• URDU:Khubakalan, Khaksi, Khaksir, Khub Kalan, Shaba
• UNANI:Khubkalan, Khubkalon, Khaksi
• TIBBI NAME:Khub Kalan
• ARABIC:Jalijan, Khakshi, Khubba
• DENMARK:Esdragon
• SPANISH:ireos, matacandil, oruga leonina, rabanillo amarillo
• SWEDEN:Ampelskara, Dragon, vallsenap

Scientific Classification of Sisymbrium irio ( Khubkalon)

• KINGDOM:Plantae
• PHYLUM:Spermatophyta
• SUBPHYLUM:Angiospermae
• CLASS:Dicotyledonae
• ORDER:Capparidales
• FAMILY:Brassicaceae/Cruciferae (Mustard family)
• GENUS:Sisymbrium
• SPECIES:Sisymbrium irio

Part used:Seeds

Habitat:Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana and from Rajasthan to Uttar Pradesh in moist soils.

DESCRIPTION

Annual or biennial plant reaches 50-80 cm or taller;glabrous or sparsely pubescen;Stems erect, branched proximally and distally, glabrous or sparsely pubescent at least basally;Basal leaves not rosulate;petiole;blade oblanceolate or oblong (in outline);margins runcinate to pinnatisect;lobes oblong or lanceolate, smaller than terminal lobe, margins entire, dentate, or lobed;Cauline leaves similar to basal;distal-most blade smaller, to 2 cm wide, margins entire or 1-3-lobed;Fruiting pedicels divaricate or ascending, slender;Flowers:sepals erect, oblong;petals oblong-oblanceolate;Fruits narrowly linear, straight or slightly curved inward, slightly torulose, slender;ovules 40-90 per ovary;

Seeds more or less ellipsoid, minute, size about a mm, orangish-brown, mucilaginous with warty surface. They have odour, pungent like mustard oil and taste like bitter mustard oil. The powder of seeds is brown, with pungent mustard oil smell and oil globules;aleurone grains containing crystalloids, globoids and sclerenchymatous cells;with ruthenium red mucilage turns pink.

Pharmacological Properties of Seeds

• Expectorant:promotes the secretion of sputum by the air passages
• Anti-tussive:suppress coughing
• Restorative:restores normal health
• Febrifuge:reduce fever
• Rubefacient:topical application produces redness of the skin;useful in pain
• Antibacterial:destroys bacteria or suppresses their growth or their ability to reproduce जीवाणुरोधी
• Aphrodisiac:Having the effect of increasing sexual desire
• Cardio tonic:tonic effect on the action of the heart

Constituents of Seeds

Seed contains a flavonoid, isorhamnetin. Fatty oil from seeds contain linolenic and oleic acids (as chief constituents), along with erucic, palmitic and stearic acids. Ethanolic extract of seeds exhibited marked antibacterial action, also antipyretic and analgesic effects.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action on body

Khubkalan seeds are pungent in taste. They are sticky due to presence of fatty oil. They are hot in potency and heavy on digestion.

• Rasaरस(Taste):Katu (pungent)
• Gunaगुण(Characteristics):Guru/Heavy, Snigdha/Unctuous, Picchila (sticky)
• Viryaवीर्य(Potency):Ushna/Hot
• Vipakaविपाक(Post Digestive Effect):Katu/Pungent

Action on body:

• Vata har (pacifies the Vata/wind) वातहर
• Kapha har (pacifies the Kapha/mucous) कफहर
• Sweadkar (Sweat causing) स्वेदकर
• Shothahara (Anti-inflammatory) शोथहर
• Balya (Strength promoter) बल्य

Therapeutic Uses of Seeds Powder

• Asthma, cough
• Fever, hoarseness of voice
• Diseases due to vitiation of vata
• Diseases due to vitiation of kapha
• Weakness

Dosage of the Seed powder:3-6 g.

Various Medicinal Uses of Khubkala

In treatment of piles the seeds of the plant are dried and powdered. This powder is taken in dosage of 5gm twice a day for three weeks.

• The decoction of seeds is given in case of measles and smallpox.
• For fever the seeds are boiled and given.
• The seeds are administered internally with rose water in cholera.
• In diarrhea, the seeds are given with leaves of Kaasni.
• Externally seeds are used as stimulating poultice.

The leaves of plants are also edible. They can be eaten as salads. They are rich in protein. Leaves also contain vitamins, minerals, fiber and carbohydrates. They contain about 82% moisture, 7% protein, 0.4% fiber, 8% carbohydrate, minerals (calcium, phosphorus, iron), and vitamins (vitamin A/beta-carotene and C).

The infusion of leaves is used in treatment of respiratory ailments, throat affections, cough, and loss of voice.

Nut-grass or Motha can be seen growing as weed in garden, lawn, fields and waste lands. It looks like grass and have tuberous roots underground. It is a perennial plant. Its blackish tuberous roots have distinct smell due to presence of essential oil. These rhizomes roots are rich in medicinal properties and used in Ayurveda for treatment of diseases since time immemorial. They are used fresh and dried. For medicinal purpose the dried powder or decoction of roots are prescribed.

In Ayurveda this plant is known as Mustak or Motha. It is used in treatment of variety of diseases. It is one of the best herb for treating many female disorders like yeast, candida and premenstrual syndrome. It is also used for menopause, menstrual disorders, dysmenorrhea, and breast tumors. Mustak/Nut-grass is used alone or in combination with other herbs for treating digestive disorders, pain in abdomen, low appetite, digestive weakness, indigestion, malabsorption, diarrhea and bleeding dysentery. Animal studies show oral administration of roots breaks the lipids and mobilizes the fat from adipose tissues and thus helps in reducing obesity. Another study shows, the daily intake of Motha root powder (1 gram, three times a day) and Ashwagandha powder (1 gram, two times a day) shows good result in rheumatoid arthritis.

Scientific Classification of Cyperus rotundus

The botanical name of Motha is Cyperus rotundus Linn. and it belongs to the family Cyperaceae.

Cyperaceae or sedge family comprises of monocotyledonous flowering plants. The plants of this family are grass like and found especially in wet regions throughout the world. It is among the 10 largest families of flowering plants, containing about 5, 000 species. In genus Cyperus, there are nearly 650 species.

Cyperus rotundus taxonomic classification is as given below:-

• KINGDOM:Plantae – Plants
• SUBKINGDOM:Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• SUPERDIVISION:Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• DIVISION:Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• CLASS:Liliopsida – Monocotyledons
• SUBCLASS:Commelinidae
• ORDER:Cyperales
• FAMILY:Cyperaceae – Sedge family
• GENUS:Cyperus L. – flatsedge P
• SPECIES:Cyperus rotundus L. – nutgrass

SYNONYMS

• AYURVEDIC:Musta, Mustaa, Mustaka, Abda, Ambuda, Ambhoda, Ambodhara, Bhadra, Bhadra, Bhadramusta, Bhadramusta, Bhadramustaka, Ghana, Jalada, Jaldhara, Meghahva, Nirada, Varida, Varivaha, Payoda, Balahaka, Ganda-Durva
• SIDDHA:Koraikkizhangu
• UNANI:Naagarmothaa, Saad-e-Kufi
• HINDI:Motha, Nagarmotha
• ASSAMESE:Mutha, Somad Koophee
• BENGALI:Mutha, Musta
• GUJARATI:Moth, Nagarmoth
• KANNADA:Konnari Gadde
• MALAYALAM:Muthanga, Kari Mustan
• MARATHI:Moth, Nagarmoth, Motha, Bimbal
• PUNJABI:Mutha, Motha
• TAMIL:Korai, Korai-Kizhangu
• TELUGU:Tungamustalu
• ENGLISH:Coco-grass, Java grass, nut grass, purple nut sedge, purple nutsedge, red nut sedge.
• URDU:Sad Kufi

Part used for medicinal purpose: Rhizome

Habitat:Indigenous to India, and found in tropical, subtropical and temperate regions.

Found throughout the plains of India up to an elevation of 1800 m;grow in waste grounds, gardens and roadsides, and similar places.

DESCRIPTION OF MEDICINAL PART

Drug consists of rhizome and stolon. Rhizomes bluntly conical and vary in size and thickness, crowned with the remains of stem and leaves forming a scaly covering, dark brown or black externally, creamish-yellow internally;odour, pleasant.

MAIN CONSTITUENTS: The major compounds isolated from essential oil and the extracts of C.rotundus rhizome are Alpha-cyperone, Alpha-rotunol, Beta-cyperone, Beta-pinene, Beta-rotunol, Beta-selinene, Calcium, Camphene, Copaene, Cyperene, Cyperenone, Cyperol, Cyperolone Cyperotundone Dcopadiene, D-epoxyguaiene, D-fructose, D-glucose, Flavonoids, Gamma-cymene, Isocyperol, Isokobusone, Kobusone, Limonene, Linoleic-acid, Linolenic-acid, Magnesium, Manganese, C. rotunduskone, Myristic-acid, Oleanolic-acid, Oleanolic-acid-3-oneohesperidoside, Oleic-acid, P-cymol, Patchoulenone, Pectin, Polyphenols, Rotundene, Rotundenol, Rotundone, Selinatriene, Sitosterol, Stearic-acid, Sugeonol, Sugetriol.

The essential oil comprised mostly sesquiterpene hydrocarbons, epoxides, ketones, monoterpenes and aliphatic alcohols. Sesquiterpenes include selinene, isocurcumenol, nootkatone, aristolone, isorotundene, cypera- 2, 4(15)-diene, and norrotundene, as well as the sesquiterpene alkaloids rotundines A-C.

AYURVEDIC PROPERTIES AND ACTION

Mustak or Motha is Pungent, bitter and astringent. It is cold in potency and increases Vata dosha if taken in excess. It pacifies Pitta and Kapha dosha.

The roots on oral intake have action on plasma, blood, muscle, and nerves. It mainly affects digestive, circulatory, female reproductive system. Achrya Charak and Sushrut used Motha in diarrhea, dysentery, digestive disorders, vaginal and uterine diseases.

• Rasa (Taste):Tikta/Bitter, Katu (pungent) kashaya/Astringent
• Guna (Characteristics):Laghu/Light, Ruksha/Dry,
• Virya (Potency):Sheet/ Cool
• Vipaka (Post Digestive Effect):Katu/Pungent

Action on body

• Dipana/ deepana (Digestive stimulant)
• Grahi (Anti-diarrhea, binds stool)
• Pachana (digest ama/toxins)
• Kapha-har (pacifies the Kapha/mucous)
• Pitta-har (pacifies pitta)
• Sthoulya-har (reduces obesity)
• Tvakadosh-har (cures skin diseases)
• Sotha-har (reduces swelling)

IMPORTANT FORMULATIONS

Mustakarishta, Mustakadi Kvatha, Ashokarishta, Mustakadi Churna, Mustakadi Lehya, Piyushavalli Rasa, Gulmakatanala Rasa, Mahalakshadi Taila etc.

THERAPEUTIC USES IN AYURVEDA

• Digestive weakness, Indigestion
• Diarrhea, Dysentery, Malabsorption
• Excess thirst, Rheumatism, Vomiting
• Cold, cough
• Gynecological Disorders
• Intestinal Parasites, painful urination, fever

DOSE OF NUTGRASS

• Dry Powder dose 3-6 grams.
• Decoction (Kwath) prepared from the dry root powder:20-30 ml.
• For preparing decoction boil one tablespoon of Motha root powder in one glass water. Cook till water reduces to 70-50ml. Fitter this using a tea strainer.

Medicinal Properties of Mustak/Nut-grass Rhizome

Motha roots contain several active chemical constituents. Due to presence of these constituents the roots possess following medicinal properties. These properties are scientifically proven by various scientific studies.

• Antioxidant:Strong radic al scavenging action;Prevents free radical damage of cells.
• Anthelmintic:Destroy parasitic worms.
• Antifungal:Effective against fungus.
• Alterative:restoring healthy bodily functions.
• Anti-rheumatic:against rheumatism.
• Antispasmodic:prevents or relieves spasms/cramps.
• Anti-hyperglycemic:lowers the blood glucose levels.
• Aphrodisiac:stimulates sexual desire.
• Astringent:constricts soft organic tissue.
• Carminative:Relieves gas in the alimentary tract (colic or flatulence or griping).
• Diaphoretic:Induces perspiration.
• Diuretic:Increases passing of urine.
• Emmenagogue:stimulate blood flow in the pelvic area and uterus.
• Hepatoprotective:Protects liver and improves liver functions.
• Stimulant:raises levels of physiological or nervous activity in the body.
• Stomachic:promotes the appetite or and assist in digestion.
• Hypotensive:lowers blood pressure.

Medicinal Uses of Nut grass/Cyperus rotundus

For medicinal purpose the tuberous roots of plant are used. They are used internally as well as externally. The decoction of Motha roots with honey is prescribed in diarrhea. In diarrhea with mucus and pain, Motha roots are boiled in milk and given.

Stomach disorder

One or two crushed tubers boiled with about 200 ml cow milk are given in stomach disorder.

Atisaar or Diarrhea

The dried root powder is given in dose of 5 grams with Butter milk 3-4 times a day.

Pravahika or dysentery

Nutgrass improves intestinal absorption and stops diarrhea. The decoction of nutgrass root is taken in dosage of 30ml two times a day.

Jaundice, cold

The decoction of nutgrass is beneficial.

Improving health

The juice of nutgrass is highly health promoting.

Fever

For fever, the decoction of nutgrass root is taken in dosage of 30ml.

Intestinal disorders

The roots are ground and taken with honey in dose of one teaspoon.

Improving breast milk

The paste of fresh roots is applied on breasts.

Sores, Wounds

The root paste is applied on affected places.

Caution, Side-effects and Contraindications of Nagarmotha

It should be taken cautiously in constipation.

It increases vata dosha.

REFERENCES

Khurasani Ajwain/ Khorasni Yavani/Ajwain Khurasaniis the seeds of plant Hyoscyamus niger belonging to nightshade family or Solanaceae. This family consists of about 98 genera and some 2, 700 species of plant. Some of the plants belonging to this family are highly toxic like Datura, Mandragora and Atropa belladonna (deadly nightshade). Khurasani Ajwain is also known as stinking nightshade or black henbane. This plant is also toxic.

By Anneli Salo (Own work)[CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

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Khurasani ajwain is native of Khurasan, Iran. It is used in Ayurveda and Unani medicine system for treatment of variety of diseases. It is also used as substitute of opium because of its hypnotic, hallucinogenic, narcotic, and sedative properties. Every part of Khurasani ajwain plant contains alkaloids. These alkaloid can cause increase in heart rate and respiratory rate, dilation of pupil, excitement, and seizures. It is always used in recommended low dosage only.

Khurasani ajwain is hot in potency and digestive in nature. It has astringent and narcotic effect. Due to its narcotic and sedative effect Khurasani ajwain is used for calming the mind and inducing sleep. In Unani medicine system the seeds of Khurasani ajwain are first detoxified and then used. For this purpose, the seeds are soaked in vinegar for three consecutive night and then dried and powdered. This powder is used for medicinal purpose.

Scientific classification

• Kingdom:Plantae
• Order:Solanales
• Family:Solanaceae
• Genus:Hyoscyamus
• Species:H. niger
• Binomial name:Hyoscyamus niger

SYNONYM

• AYURVEDIC/SANSKRIT NAME:Parasika Yavni, Parseekyavaani, Madkarini, Khurashanika, Khurasani ajwain
• UNANI:Barz-ul-Banj, Bazrulbanj, Khurasani Ajwayin
• SIDDHA:Parsekayavani, Khurasani Omam
• ENGLISH:Indian Henbane, Black Henbane
• BENGALI:Khorasani ajwan
• GUJRATI:Khurasanee ajma, Khurasanee ajmo
• HINDI:Khurasanee ajvayan,
• KANNADA:Khurasanee, Ajawaana
• MALAYALAM:Khurasaanee, Paarasika, Yavaani
• MARATHI:Khurasanee ova
• PUNJABI:Khurasanee ajvain, Bangidewana
• TAMIL:Kuraasanee Yomam
• TELUGU:Kurasanee vamu, Khurasanee omam
• URDU:Ajvayanee Khursanee

HABITAT: Central and southern Europe, Western Asia, Siberia. Main source Baluchistan and Afghanistan.

In India, it occurs in the temperate Himalayas from Kashmir to Garhwal.

CONSTITUENTS

Hyoscyamine, hyoscine, isomeric N-oxides of hyoscyamine (equatorial and axial), hyoscine-N-oxide (equatorial isomer), tropine;16á- acetoxyhyoscyamilactol, daturalactone-4, hyoscyamilactol;cannabisin D, cannabisin G, grossamide, hyoscyamide;rutin;daucosterol, ßsitosterol, myristic, palmitic, stearic, oleic and linoleic acids, 1-O- (9Z, 12Z-octadecadienoyl) glycerol, 1-O-octadecanoylglycerol, 1-O- (9Z-12Z-octadecadienoyl) -3O-(9Z-Octadecenoyl) glycerol, 1-O- (9Z, 12Z-octadecadienoyl) -3-O-nonadecanoyl glycerol, 1-O-(9Z, 12Zoctadecadienoyl)-2-O- (9Z, 12Z-octadecadienoyl) glycerol, N-trans-feruloyl tyramine, 1, 24-tetracosanediol diferulate and vanillic acid.

DESCRIPTION OF SEEDS:

Seeds irregularly reniform or sub-quadrate, slightly over a mm. in size, dark grey, surface concave, odour pleasantly aromatic;taste bitter, mucilaginous and pungent.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action on body

• Rasa (Taste):Tikta/Bitter, Katu (pungent)
• Guna (Characteristics):Guru/Heavy, Ruksha/Dry
• Virya (Potency):Ushna/Hot
• Vipaka (Post Digestive Effect):Katu/Pungent

Action on body:

• Dipana/ deepana (Digestive stimulant)
• Grahi (Anti-diarrhea, binds stool)
• Pachana (digest ama/toxins)
• Pitta-kara (increases pitta)
• Kapha-hara (reduces mucous)
• Vata-har (Reduce vata dosha)
• Madak (intoxicating)
• Nidra-karak (induces sleep)
• THERAPEUTIC USES IN AYURVEDA
• Stones, pain, asthma, gulma, intestinal parasites, intoxicated, nightfall/nocturnal emission, insomnia, joint pain and pain in abdomen.

IMPORTANT MEDICINAL PROPERTIES OF KHURASANI AJWAIN

• Anaphrodisiac:reduces sexual libido/desire.
• Anodyne:pain relieving.
• Anthelmintic:destroy parasitic worms.
• Anti-rheumatic:gives relief in rheumatism.
• Antiseptic:prevents the growth of disease-causing microorganisms.
• Hypnotic:producing hypnosis/ sleep-inducing.
• Sedative/intoxicant:promoting calm.
• Antispasmodic (prevents or relieves spasms/cramps).
• Anticholinergic:Agents that block the action of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the brain. They are used to treat diseases like asthma, incontinence, gastrointestinal cramps, and muscular spasms.
• Carminative:relieves gas in the alimentary tract (colic or flatulence or griping).
• Astringent:constricts soft organic tissue.

Recommended Dosage of Khurasani Ajwain:125-500mg.

Medicinal Uses of Khurasani Ajwain

Insomnia due to stress

Prepare a powder by mixing powder of Amla, Brahmi, Shankhpushpi, Shatavari, Ashwagandha, and Khurasani ajwain in equal amount. Take this powder in dose of 3grams with milk. Take daily for three months.

Pain in ear

Cook seeds of Khurasani ajwain in sesame oil. Let it cool and instill few drops in ear.

Intestinal parasites, roundworm

For parasitic infestation, eat 10gram jaggery empty stomach in the morning. After that eat 200-500mg of its seeds powder.

Urinary problems, stones

The Satva of seeds is given in dose of 12 drops, 3-4 times a day.

Rheumatic pain, joint pain

The seeds are cooked in sesame oil and massaged on affected body area.

Pain in liver

The seeds oil is applied externally on affected area.

CAUTION, SIDE-EFFECTS and CONTRAINDICATIONS

Contraindicated in Tachycardia (Fast Heartbeat), Prostatic Hyperplasia (Noncancerous Enlargement Of The Prostate Gland), Glaucoma (Increased Pressure Within The Eyeball, Causing Gradual Loss Of Sight), Acute Pulmonary Oedema (Excess Fluid In The Lungs) And Stenosis Of Gastrointestinal Tract (Obstruction Of GI Tract).

Overdoses may cause Arrhythmia (Heart Beats with an Irregular or Abnormal Rhythm), Deliria (Disturbance Of Consciousness), Dysuria (Painful Or Difficult Urination), Erythema (Reddening Of The Skin), Hallucinogens, Lethargy, Mania, Mydriasis (Dilation Of The Pupil Of The Eye), Obstipation (Severe Or Complete Constipation), Tachycardia (Abnormally Rapid Heart Rate), Visual Disturbance, Water Retention, And Dry Mouth.

• The high dosage of Khurasani ajwain is harmful for heart. It increases blood pressure and heart rate.
• Khurasani ajwain reduces libido.
• Always take in recommended dose.

Orchis latifolia Linn. is commonly known as Panja, Salam-Panja, Salep, Hath-Panja or Hatajari. It got all these local names due to its hand like roots. The appearance of its root is like a palm with fingers. Salam-panja is found in Himalaya at altitudes of 2, 500-5000m in damp places. It is an orchid plant and bears purple flowers. It has fleshy tuberous roots. These roots are used for medicinal purpose. In Unani, the roots of plant are considered aphrodisiac and nervine tonic. The roots are cooling, emollient, aphrodisiac, rejuvenating and tonic.

By Isidre blanc (Own work)[CC BY-SA 4.0], via Wikimedia Commons

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General Information

Vernacular Names

• Hindi:Salampanja, Salam
• Ayurvedic:Munjataka, Saalam-misri
• Kannada, Malyalam, Telugu:Salamisri
• Marathi:Salum
• Uttarakhand:Hattha jadee
• Kashmir:Salem panja
• Ladakh:Angulagpa
• English:Salep orchid
• Siddha:Silamishri
• Trade name:Salep

Latin Name: Orchis latifolia Linn.

Family:Orchidaceae (orchid family)

Part used: Tuber root

Native to: Indian Himalayan region

Distributed in:India (Jammu and Kashmir, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh), Pakistan, Afghanistan, Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan.

Description:

Perennial herb, up to 60 to 70 cm in height;palmately lobed, Fleshy, tuberous divided root tubers;leaves many, erect, oblong broadly lanceolate arranged more or less along the stem;Flower:dull purple in spikes.

Medicinal Uses of Salep

The roots of plant are used Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani for treatment of many diseases. They are used to cure dysentery, diarrhea, chronic fever, cough, stomachache, wounds, cuts, burns, fractures and general weakness.

The root tubers are rich in starch, mucilage, sugar, phosphate, chloride and glucoside-loroglossin. They yield a 'Salep’ which is used in traditional medicine.

Salep is used as food, expectorant, aphrodisiac and as nervine tonic. The dried and ground root powder is taken with milk to increase vigourness. It is ingredient of many Unani medicines which are used for sexual weakness, low sperm count and spermattorrhoea.

Roots have astringent and aphrodisiac properties. Clinical trial shows that the herb is also used to increase testosterone level and also help to increase sexual desire.

The roots are cooling in nature.

They are tonic, rejuventive and used in treatment of wasting diseases.

Dosage of Root powder

The root powder is used in dose of 3-5 grams. Generally one teaspoon root powder is cooked in one cup milk and given for diabetes, dysentery, diarrhea, weakness and all kind of wasting diseases.

Reference

Badola HK, Aitken S (2003). The Himalayas of India:A treasury of Medicinal plant under siege. Biodiversity, 4:3-13

Baral SR, Kurmi PP (2006). A compendium of medicinal plants in Nepal, Katmandu, Nepal

Samant SS, Dhar U, Palni LMS (1998). Medicinal plants of Indian Himalayan:Diversity, Distribution Potential Values. HIMAVIKAS Publication. No.13, Gyanodaya Prakashan. Nainital, India

Pant S, Rinchen T, Dactylorhiza hatagirea:A high value medicinal orchid. J Med Plants Res, 6(19):3522-4, (2012)

Thakur M, Dixit VK (2007). Aphrodisiac Activity of Dactylorhiza hatagirea (D.Don) Soo in Male Albino Rats. Evid. Based Complement Alternat. Med., 4(1):29-31

Thakur M, Dixit VK, Ameliorative effect of Fructo-Oligosaccharide rich extract of Orchis latifolia linn. on sexual dysfunction in hyperglycaemic male rats. Sex Disabil, 26(1):37-46(2008)

Ved DK, Kinhal GA, Ravikumar K, Prabhakaran V, Ghate U, Sankar RV, Indresha JH (2003). CAMP Report:Conservation assessment and Management prioritization for Medicinal plant of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttaranchal. In:Workshop at Shimla, Himachal Pradesh.

Vij SP, Srivastav RC, Mainra AK (1992). On the occurrence of Dacty

Singh A, Duggal S, Medicinal Orchids - An Overview. Ethnobot Leaflets, 13:399-412, (2009)

Banana is one of the most nutritious and suitable for all fruit. It is available throughout the year. It has added advantage over the other fruits. You need not to wash your hands before eating it. Just peel and enjoy. It is easy to carry and does not require washing prior to eating. Banana is a tropical fruit. It originated in Southeast Asia and the South Pacific. Botanically, banana fruit is a berry and its plant is a giant herb. There are about 1000 varieties of bananas in the world. They are grown in more than 150 countries, producing 105 million tons of fruit per year.

Banana offers numerous health benefits. It regulates bowel, makes blood alkaline, reduces stress and increases brain power. Its intake is beneficial in heart diseases, depression, menstrual pains and anemia. Banana shows beneficial effects in constipation, thirst, hemorrhoids, hypertension, and intoxication. They are rich in potassium. Potassium is an essential mineral required for maintaining normal blood pressure and heart function. Study show mixture of banana and milk significantly reduces the acid secretion. Banana is effective against aspirin-induced damage of gastric mucosa.

Taxonomical classification

India is considered as one of the origin of the banana. The scientific name of banana is Musa paradisiaca and Musa sapientum.

• KINGDOM:Plantae
• DIVISION:Magnoliophyta
• CLASS:Liliopsida
• ORDER:Zingiberales
• FAMILY:Musaceae
• GENUS:Musa
• SPECIES:Musa paradisiaca, Musa sapientum

SYNONYM

• AYURVEDIC:Sakrtphala, Varana, Mocha, Ambusara, Anshumatiphal
• UNANI:Kelaa, Mouz
• SIDDHA:Vaazhai
• ENGLISH:Plantain, Banana
• HINDI:Kela
• BENGALI:Kela, Kala, Kach-kula, Kodali, Kanch-kala
• ORIYA:Kadali, Kadila
• ASSAMESE:Kal, Talha
• GUJARATI:Kela Kannada:Bale, Balenaru, Balehannu, Bale gadde
• MALAYALAM:Vasha, Vashappagnan, Vazha, Pisang, Kadalivala, Ksetrakadali
• MARATHI:Kela, Kadali Punj:Kela, Khela
• TAMIL:Vashaip pasham, Valei, Vazhai, Kadali valai
• TELUGU:Ariti, Anati, Kommu-ariti, Nalla-ariti, Kadali, Arati gadda, Kadalamu
• URDU:Kela:
• ARABIC:Tulhtula, Shajratulmosus, Mous, Mouz
• SINDHI:Kewiro
• PERSIAN:Tulhtula, Mous
• SINGHALESE:Walkaihil, Kehol
• CAMBODIA:Check, Chek chvea, Chek pheh

Nutritional Value of Banana

Banana is full of nutrition. It is excellent source of potassium. One medium size banana contain about 400mg of it. Higher level of potassium in body helps to lower the blood pressure. Moreover it has very low amount of sodium. Eating one banana gives 25% of daily required value of Vitamin B6. Vitamin B6 improves immunity. Banana also contains silicon, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, chromium, iron, fluoride, manganese, selenium, and zinc.

Banana, fresh 1 medium;

Calories:118.00 grams;Glycemic Index:low (GI measures the impact of a food on our blood sugar)

Nutrient	Amount	%Daily Value*
Total Fat	0.5g	1%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	<0.5 mg/100g	0%
Sugars	18g
Protein	1g
vitamin B6	0.43 mg	25
manganese	0.32 mg	16
vitamin C	10.27 mg	14
fiber	3.07 g	12
potassium	422.44 mg	12
biotin	3.07 mcg	10
copper	0.09 mg	10

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2, 000 calorie diet.

Some important Medicinal Properties

Bananas are astringent, emollient, cooling, anthelmintic, aphrodisiac, antiscorbutic, laxative, demulcent and nutrient. They are useful in bleeding disorders, diabetes, gastritis, dyspepsia with flatulence and acidity, chronic dysentery, diarrhea, scurvy, helminthiasis, scabies, pruritus, bronchitis, pharyngeal disorders, nephropathy, strangury, menorrhagia, metrorrhagia and general debility.

• Some of the important beneficial properties of banana are given below.
• Anti-ulcer:ulcers in the stomach and the upper part of the small intestine.
• Antacid:prevents or corrects stomach acidity.
• Antiscorbutic:against scurvy.
• Laxative:encourage bowel movements to relieve constipation.
• Cooling:provides a sensation of coolness or reduces fever.
• Nutritive, tonic:Good for improving general health.
• Heavy, Strengthening, Aphrodisiac
• In Ayurveda, the unripe fruit is acrid, cooling, tonic, astringent to the bowels. It causes vata and kapha. The ripe fruit is sweet, acrid, cooling, tonic, aphrodisiac and demulcent. It is useful in dysentery, leprosy, thirst, bronchitis, consumption, burning sensations, vaginal and urinary discharges, urinary concretions, biliousness and acidity. In diabetes, the unripe fruit is preferred.
• It takes approximately three - four hour for banana to digest completely.

Health Benefits of Banana

Banana is full of nutrition. Eating one banana provides 12% of daily required value of potassium. Potassium protects against cardiovascular diseases and lowers blood pressure. Potassium also helps body to get rid of excess sodium. Banana is also good source of manganese, fiber, and vitamin B6. Banana strengthen bones, improves eyesight, and protects from ulcers. It improves digestion and bowel movements. It reduces acid reflux and heartburn. It is a natural antacid. In pregnancy, it helps to provide nutrition, folic acid and gives relief in morning sickness.

• It is very low-fat food (less than 4% of their calories come from fat). It is rich in carbohydrates, potassium, and vitamins.
• It restores normal bowel function.
• The fully ripen banana is a natural bulk producing laxative. It is rich in water-soluble fiber and helps to cure constipation.
• It has antacid effects and protect against stomach ulcers.
• It reduces the risk of heart diseases and blood pressure due to their richness in potassium.
• As banana are rich in potassium they also prevent muscle cramps.
• It contain amino acid tryptophan which stimulates production of serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter with calming effect on body. This also helps in reducing depression.
• It increase mental alertness and improves brain power.
• It increases iron level and cures anemia.
• It improves the body's ability to absorb calcium.
• It makes blood alkaline.

Eating banana during pregnancy provides folic acid, iron, vitamin B6, potassium and other nutrients. It helps to keep blood pressure normal and also gives energy.

Bananas eating is beneficial in ulcer, irritation in the stomach and hyperacidity. It contain a considerable amount of vitamin B6 and vitamin C, minerals like calcium, magnesium, and trace amounts of iron and zinc. It contains phosphorus which is good for brain. Banana does not contain fat and cholesterol. It has low glycemic index. It breaks down slowly and releases glucose gradually in the bloodstream. The can be eaten safely in diabetes.

Eating Banana for treating common health conditions

• It is beneficial to eat banana in acidity, colitis, ulcerative colitis, insomnia, and for improving weight gain.
• In insomnia/lack of sleep, eating banana with one teaspoon of cumin seed powder is helpful.
• In peptic ulcer and hyperacidity, eating larger greener banana is helpful. For this purpose eat 1-2 banana with one cup milk. It neutralizes excessive acidity.
• For constipation, eating banana empty stomach in the morning is very helpful. Please note, use the fully ripen yellow banana for constipation. Also it is important to drink plenty of water. Otherwise the fiber present in banana will worsen the constipation.
• In mouth ulcer and nose-bleed/ nakseer, eating banana is helpful. For nose-bleed eat banana daily.
• For hiccups, eat a grain of hing and with banana.
• The banana face mask application on face tightens the facial skin and gives glow. It moisturizes, softens, soothes and nourishes the skin. It has anti-wrinkle properties. This mask specially suits to dry and normal skin.
• For preparing the mask, take one ripe banana and mash it. Add one teaspoon honey and mix well. Apply this face-mask for 15-20 minutes. Wash off with plain water.
• Rub the inner peel of banana on insect bite or mosquito bites to get relief from itching.

Banana pacifies pitta dosha but aggravates kapha dosha. So if in case of excess mucous in body it is better to avoid banana. Avoid eating banana immediately after having meal. Do not drink water for one hour after eating banana. Goiter patients should avoid banana.

Lac/Lakh or Laksha is resin and wax mixture secretion from a scale insect as a hard protective covering. It is a natural commercial resin of animal origin. It has a reddish or dark-brown colour with a disagreeable smell.

Lac has been used in India from thousand years. The detailed habit and behavior of Lac insect is given in Atharva Ved. In Mahabharata, Kauravas built a palace of Laksha, the Laksha Griha लाक्षा गृह (Laksha=Lac;Griha=Home) as a conspiracy to kill Pandavas. Lac has diverse uses. It is used for making dyes, filling the hollow gold and silver ornaments, making of bangles etc. The fluid lac dye obtained by dissolving the crushed stick-lac in water is called Alakta अलक्तः or Alta. This dye is applied by Indian Hindu women on hands and sole of feet.

From the stick-lac (twigs encrusted with lac), shellac is obtained after purification. Shellac is used as coating for medicines.

SYNONYM

SANSKRIT:Laksha HINDI:Lakh ENGLISH:Shellac BENGALI:Gala GUAJARATI:Lak TELUGU:Kommolakka, lakka

TAMIL:KomburrkiMALAYALAM:Arakku, Ambalu ARABIC:Luk

In Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani system of medicine Lac is used for treatment of variety of diseases.

In Ayurveda, Lac is considered astringent (Ras/taste), cool (Veerya/potency), and Pungent (Vipaka/post-digetsive effect). It balances pitta-kapha dosh and promotes strength.

The purified Lac is used in Ayurveda for treatment of hiccups, cough, coughing up blood or blood stained mucus and dhatu-gat fever.

Lakshadi guggul/Laksha Guggul, contains Lac along with guggul, hathjod, arjun, ashwagandha and Nagbala. This medicine is indicated in fracture of bone, improper bone alignment and ostealgia/Pain in a bone. Another important formulation is Chandan Bala Laxadi Tail. This medicated oil is used in treatment of chronic fever, remittent fevers, lumbago, myalgia, epilepsy and hysteria.

In Unani, Lac is considered tonic for liver, stomach and intestine. It is haemostasis (causes bleeding to stop), resolvent of obstructions, jaundice, dropsy, kidney, and to reduces fat.

Lac is used in Unani medicine system to make medicine 'Safoofe muhazzil' an anti-obesity drug. Some other Unani medicines which contain Lac as ingredient are Dwaul Luk, Dwaul zarishk, Qurse ambar baris and Qursz Luk.

How Lac is obtained?

Lakh is secretion of an insect (Laccifer lacca family Coccoidea;scale insects) which feeds on a ficus, croton, and ber tree. Its common host tree include Banyan, Peepal, Khadira/Acacia catechu, Ber/Zizyphus mauritiana and Palas/Butea monospema.

The host tree of age 8-10 years is selected and is properly pruned to stimulate production of new branches. After that inoculation or infection is done (introduction of live insect larvae on tree). For this purpose broodlac containing larvae, are tied on to branches of the tree. Larvae emerge from the brood within a week or ten days.

After one week of settling, the larvae start secreting lac from glands distributed under the cuticle all over the body, except the mouth parts, the two breathing pores and the anus. A hard-coating develops around the insect. When it matures, the twigs are cut. These twigs are dried in the shade. The wood shrinks, leaving the lac as hollow tubes, but some of the wood still adheres. The sticklac is heated and processed to remove the impurities. The purified lac is known as shell lac or shellac.

In India, lakh is mainly produced in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Asam, Orissa, Maharasthra, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.

Green lac or sticklac Composition

The major constituent of sticklac is the resin (70-80%);sugars, proteins, and soluble salts - 2-4;colouring matter - 1-2;wax – 4 –6;sand, woody matter, insect bodies and other extraneous matter– 8-12;a volatile oil is present in traces. Lac contains a water soluble red dye.

Medicinal Properties

• Lac is used in Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani medicine system for treatment of variety of diseases due to its following medicinal properties.
• Anti-obesity, anti-inflammatory, anti-bilious
• Deobstruent (Removing obstructions;power to clear or open the natural ducts of the fluids and secretions of the body)
• Liver tonic, emmenagogue
• Lipid lowering
• Antifertility/contraceptive
• Aphrodisiac

Medicinal Uses of Lac

For medicinal purpose the purified sticklac is used. This is known as Shellac.

• It is used for reducing weight.
• It reduces heart rate.
• It is used for strengthening the bones.
• It is used to cure pain in bones.
• In case of the vomiting of blood, finely powdered Shell lac mixed with honey is given.
• In dentistry, it is used to make dentures and other dental products.
• It is used for coating the medicines.

References:

• The Wealth of India – CSIR Publications
• A Monograph on LAC – B. Mukhopadhyay and M.S. Muthana
• Lac Cultivation – Shellac export promotion Council, Kolkatta
• Industrial use of Lac – RN Banerjee Secretary, SEPC, Kolkatta
• Baitar IZAA, Al Jami Li Mufradat Al Advia Wal Aghzia, Vol. IV. New Delhi:Urdu translation by CCRUM, 253-254 (2003)
• Maghrabi AI. Kitab Al Fath Fi Al Tadawi (Urdu Translation by Dept. of AYUSH), 1 st ed. New Delhi:
• NCPC printers., 42, 138-39 (2007).Aisha Perveen.
• Evaluation of Luk for its antifertility activity in rat model. Dissertation. Rajiv Gandhi University
• of Health Sciences (RGUHS) in Ilmul Advia (Pharmacology). Bangalore, Karnataka, India (2013).

Indian borage (Trichodesma indicum) or Andhahuli is medicinal plant that is found as a common weed throughout the India. It is an annual plant with pale blue flower. For medicinal purpose, whole plant is used. In Ayurveda, leaves and roots of plant are used to treat arthritis, anorexia, dysentery, skin diseases, poisoning and for wound healing. The paste of roots is applied on joint swelling. Scientific study show the aerial parts of plant have significant diuretic activity which may be useful in the treatment of acute pulmonary oedema, chronic heart failure, ascites, nephrotic syndrome, and renal failure.

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By J.M.Garg (Own work)[GFDL or CC BY-SA 4.0-3.0-2.5-2.0-1.0], via Wikimedia Commons

General Information

The botanical name of Andhahuli/Indian borage is Trichodesma indicum R. Br. (=Borago indica). It belongs to plant family Boraginaceae.

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose:whole plant

Plant type:Annual prostrate herb/ common weed.

Distribution: Throughout India, along the dry wastelands, roadsides upto 1500 m.

Habitat:The greater part of India in the plains. Also found in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Philippines, Mauritius, and Africa.

Status:Common

Vernacular names

1. Ayurvedic:Adah-pushpi, Adhomukha, Gandhapushpika, Andhaka, Andhpushpi अंधःपुष्पी, अन्धपुष्पी
2. Siddha/Tamil:Kalhudaitumbai
3. Folk:Andhahuli
4. Hindi:Andhahuli, Chotta-kulpha अन्धाहुली, छोटा कुलफा
5. Kannada:Athomukhi, Kattetumbesoppu
6. Malyalam:Kilukkamtumpa
7. Telugu:Guvvagutti
8. Other common names:Handusi booti, Nila karaji
9. English:Indian Borage

Plant Description

Annual herb. Stems 15-40 cm high, much branched, with spreading, not very dense hairs. Leaves sessile, oblong, lanceolate or lanceolate-oblong, lower leaves 5-8 by 0.8- cm, upper leaves 2-4.5 by 0.3-1.2 cm, base in lowermost leaves narrow, in the others broadly rounded, semiamplexicaulous, apex acute or obtusish, midrib distinct, sometimes also a few other nerves visible, hairs spreading-antrorse, arising from groups of mineralized cells on upper side, loose, crispulate on lower side. Inflorescences terminal on stem and branches, leafy, flowers axillary;pedicels 0.8-1.8 cm, curved downwards in fruit, with long, dense, spreading hairs. Calyx c. 1 cm long in flower, up to cm in fruit, cleft to the base into narrowly triangular, basally sagittate lobes 1.2 mm wide in flower, 2 mm wide in fruit, hairs loose, spreading from mineralized cells. Corolla funnel-shaped, lilac, tube c. 5 mm long, limb 1.3-1.5 cm in diam., lobes broadly rounded-acuminate, 7 mm long and wide. Nutlets oblong ovoid, 5 mm long, 2-3 mm wide, smooth, whitish. Pistil:style as long as calyx. Stamens:anthers oblong, sterile, twisted apex 4-5 mm long, densely woolly.

Constituents of Indian borage

The seeds gave linoleic, linolenic, oleic, palmitic and stearic acids. Hexacosane, ethylhexacosanoate, 21, 24-hexacosadienoic acid ethylester have been isolated from the leaves.

Medicinal Properties

The plant possess following medicinal properties. These properties are also supported by modern lab studies.

1. Alexeteric:Counteracts an infection or toxin.
2. Anodyne:Relieves pain without causing loss of consciousness.
3. Antidote:Counteracts a poison
4. Anti-dysenteric:Relieving or preventing dysentery.
5. Anti-inflammatory:Reducing inflammation by acting on body mechanisms.
6. Carminative:Preventing the formation or causing the expulsion of flatulence.
7. Constipating:To cause constipation.
8. Diuretic:Promoting excretion of urine/agent that increases the amount of urine excreted.
9. Depurative:Purifying agent.
10. Emollient:Soothing and softening effect on the skin or an irritated internal surface.
11. Antipyretic/antifebrile/febrifuge:Effective against fever.
12. Thermogenic:Heating
13. Ophthalmic:Pertaining to the eye.
14. Wound healing:Heals the wounds.

Medicinal uses of Andhahuli/Indian borage

1. In Ayurvedic system of medicine, this plant is used in vitiated condition of Kapha/phlegm and Vata/wind.
2. It is indicated in diarrheas, dysentery, joint swelling, eczema, and wounds.
3. The leaves and roots of plant are pounded and applied to swelling of joints and wounds two-three times a day for 3-4 days.
4. For wounds, the paste of roots is applied externally.

REFERENCES

Periyanayagam JB, Sharma SK, Pillai KK. Evaluation of Antidiarrhoeal potential of Trichodesma indicum root extract in rats.

Srikanth K, Murugesan T, Anilkumar CH, Suba V, Das, AK, Sinha S, Arunachalam G, Manikandan . Effect of Trichodesma indicum extract on cough reflex induced by sulphur di oxide in mice. Phytomedicine 2002;Vol(1):75-77.

Periyanayagam JB, Sharma SK, Pillai KK. Anti-inflammatory activity of Trichodesma indicum. J Ethnopharmacol 2006;Vol. (104) 3(6):410-14.

Kirtikar KR., Basu BD. INDIAN MEDICINAL PLANTS, 2nd Edn, Vol.III, Lalit Mohan Basu Publisher:Allahabad:1672-1673, 1691-1695, (1975).

Chopra RN, Chopra IC, Handa KL, Kapur LD. Indigenous Drugs of India, U.N. Dhur & Sons Pvt. Ltd:Calcutta:528, (1958).

Spondias pinnata is commonly known as Amra/Amda आमड़ा in India. It is native to Southeast Asia and found in India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, China, Malaysia and Thailand. The fruits of Spondias pinnata tree are sour and tasty. Mainly they are used for making pickles, jams and chutney. Amra tree is also a medicinal tree. Its various parts are used in treatment of diarrhea, ear aches, wounds, and hyperacidity.

In Ayurveda, it is known as Amrataka अम्रातकः. Its stem bark is rich in Tannin and Starch. The bark increases kapha and pitta and decreases vata.

The leaves of tree are astringent. They are used to prepare decoction which is used as an eye lotion. The unripe fruits are sour, astringent, and aphrodisiac in nature. The ripe fruits are sweet, astringent, cooling, emollient, tonic and constipating. The ripe fruits are used in diarrhea and burning sensation. The juice of fruit is used for treating fever and as a diuretic.

The bark of tree is used in joint swelling and leprosy.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Amda/Amra is Spondias pinnata (Linn. f.) Kurz SYNONYM Spondias mangifera Willd., Spondias acuminata Roxb. non Gamble.

It belongs to plant family Anacardiaceae (cashew family). The genus Spondias consists of 17 described species, seven of which are native to the Neotropics and about ten are native to tropical Asia. They are commonly named hog plums/Spanish plums. About ten species of this genus bear edible fruits and have been domesticated for fruit production. The fruits of genus are edible and tastes like mango.

Below is given taxonomical classification of Spondias mangifera.

• KINGDOM-Plantae
• SUBKINGDOM -Tracheobionta
• SUPERDIVISION -Spermatophyta
• DIVISION -Magnoliophyta
• CLASS -Magnoliopsida
• SUBCLASS- Rosidae
• ORDER- Sapindales
• FAMILY -Anacardiaceae
• GENUS- Spondias L.
• SPECIES- Spondias pinnata (L.f.) Kurz

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose:Stem, bark, leaf and fruits.

Plant type: Tree.

Distribution:found throughout the India, ascending upto an altitude of 1500 m in the Himalayas, and also distributed in Andamans.

Habitat:Occurring wild or grown throughout the country for edible fruits.

Vernacular names

• SANSKRIT:Amrataka अम्रातकः, Amratakah, आम्रातक, पीतन, कपितन, अम्बाड़ा, आमड़ा Kapitana
• ENGLISH:Hog-Plum, Wild Mango.
• AYURVEDIC:Aamrataka, Aamrata, Aamada, Madhuparni, Kundalini, Kapitana, Markataamra
• SIDDHA:Mambulichi, Kattuma
• FOLK:Jangali Aam, Amda
• ASSAMESE:Amda
• BENGALI:Amda
• GUJARATI:Jangali Ambo, Ambeda
• HINDI:Ambada, Amra, Jangli Aam जंगली आम, अमरा Amra, अम्बाड़ी Ambaraअम्बाड़ा
• KANNADA:Ambate, Amatemara
• MALAYALAM:Mampusli, Ambalam, Ambazham, Mampuiti, Ampozham Njettikuzhiyan mavu
• MARATHI:Ambada अमडा
• ORIYA:Aabada
• TAMIL:Mampulecci, Mampulicci, Pulicha kaai, Narimangai
• TELUGU:Ambalamu
• OTHER COMMON NAMES:Amaro अमारो, Ambado आंबाडो, अमडा, आंबाडे

Tree Description

Aromatic deciduous tree up to 27 m tall;Bark smooth;Sap white, rapidly turning black;

Leaves compound, imparipinnate, alternate and spiral, leaflets elliptic, and apex acuminate, base acute, often asymmetrical, with distinct marginal vein, margin entire. Midrib flat above, secondary veins obtuse, widely parallel, tertiary veins reticulate. Stipules are absent. Leaves 30-40 cm long, compound with 5-11 opposite leaflets. Leaflets stalked, ovate-oblong to elliptic-oblong, 7-12 cm long, 4-5 cm wide, papery. Leaf base is wedge- shaped to rounded, often oblique, margin toothed or entire, with a tapering tip.

Inflorescences or flowers:Polygamous tiny white to cream flowers are borne in panicles at the end of branches, 25-35 cm long. Flowers are stalkless, white. Sepals are triangular, about 0.5 mm. Petals are ovate-oblong, about 2.5 × 1.5 mm, pointed.

Fruits:Ellipsoid to elliptic-ovoid, yellowish orange at maturity, 3.5-5 × 2.5-3.5 cm. Inner part of endocarp is woody and grooved, outer part is fibrous. Ripen fruits have pleasant fragrance. Seeds are stony.

Constituents of Spondias pinnata or Amda

Aerial parts contain lignoceric acid, 24-methylenecycloartanone, stigmast-4-en-3-one, beta-sitosterol and its glucoside.The fruit contains beta-amyrin, oleanolic acid, amino acids—glycine, cystine, serine, alanine, leucine and polysaccharides.

Nutritive and mineral potential of ripe fruits of Amra or Spondias pinnata (Purohit, V.K et al., 2010)

Medicinal Properties

The various scientific studies done Spondias pinnata show its significant antioxidant, antimicrobial and thrombolytic (breakdown/lysis of blood clots) activities. It also possess good to moderate antioxidant, cytotoxic and antibacterial activities.

It also possess several other medicinal properties.

• Astringent (Leaf, Fruit, Bark):Constrict tissues;styptic.
• Antimicrobial:Prevents the growth of microorganisms.
• Anti-dysenteric (Leaf, Fruit, Bark):Relieving or preventing dysentery.
• Antiseptic:Capable of preventing infection by inhibiting the growth of infectious agents.
• Antiscorbutic (fruits):Curing or preventing scurvy.
• Pustulant:Causing the formation of pustules.
• Tonic (fruits):Restore or improve health or well-being.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action

Ayurvedic Properties and Action of dried stem of Spondias pinnata

• Rasa (taste on tongue):Kasaya (Astringent), Amla (Sour)
• Guna (Pharmacological Action):Guru (Heavy)
• Virya:Ushna (Heating)
• Vipaka (transformed state after digestion):Katu (Pungent)

Therapeutic Uses of stem powder:Burning sensation, vitiation of blood, diarrhea, and dysentery.

Dose of stem powder: 1-3 gram of powder.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action of dried Stem Bark of Spondias pinnata

• Rasa (taste on tongue):Kasaya (Astringent), Amla (Sour)
• Guna (Pharmacological Action):Guru (Heavy), Sara (Unstable)
• Virya:Ushna (Heating)
• Vipaka (transformed state after digestion):(Pungent)
• Action:Kapha-kara, Vata-har, Pitta-kara, Kanthya, Amadoshhar.

Dosage of stem bark for medicinal purpose:Stem bark 5-10 g powder for decoction;1-3 g powder.

Uses of Spondias mangifera/Amra/Amda

Spondias mangifera is a tree with variety of uses. The leaves of tree are aromatic, acidic and astringent. They are edible and used in flavoring of dishes. The flowers are sour and used in curry as a flavoring and also eaten raw. All parts of Amra tree are of medicinal importance. Leaves, bark, stem, fruits and roots are used for treatment of variety of diseases. The fruits are very nutritious and rich in vitamin C, minerals and iron content. The ripe fruits are sweet and tasty. Unripe fruits are used to make chutney, jam and pickle. The timber is used for making furniture.

• The leaves juice is put in the ears and applied externally for earache.
• In diarrhea and dysentery, the powder of dried leaves is used. The decoction of the stem bark is also used for same purpose.
• The juice of fresh, tender leaves is given for stomach troubles.
• In hyperacidity, the tender fresh leaves are given with misri/raw sugar candy.
• For wounds the paste of fruit is applied externally.
• The bark paste is applied topically in sprain and rheumatism.
• The decoction of the bark is given in gonorrhea.
• The root is considered useful in regulating menstruation.
• The young leaves and flowers are used in preparation of curries.

Boneset or Thoroughwort (Eupatorium perfoliatum) is a medicinal plant native to eastern United States. It has hairy stem and many, loose flat topped white flowers. For medicinal purpose, the leaves and flowering tops are used. Boneset is used in form of cold infusion, tea and tincture. The herb is indicated in influenza, swine flu, acute bronchitis, nasal inflammation, rheumatism, fluid retention, fever, typhoid, yellow fever, malaria and dengue. It is beneficial in all conditions with pain in bones.

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Eupatorium perfoliatum is used traditionally for treatment of break-bone fever or dengue and hence it named boneset. It is used in Homeopathy for treatment of flu, fever, pain in bones, fracture etc. Homeopathic medicine Eupatorium perfoliatum in potency of 30, 200 is indicated in cold, sore throat, malaria and dengue.

Other common Names

Boneset, Ague-Weed, Crossword, Feverwort, Indian Sage, Sweating Weed, Thoroughwort, Wild Isaac, Tea-Gel, Vegetable Antimony.

Plant description of Boneset

Upright perennial herb;erect stout, cylindrical hairy stem, 2 to 5 feet tall;leaves opposite, fuzzy, toothed, sessile and lanceolate in shape with acuminate tip, the opposite leaf pairs adjoining at their bases and encircling the stem node (perfoliate);Large, branching, flattened, white flower clusters with small cylindrical flower heads;Flower parts are indistinguishable;Stem often purple or purple-spotted;

Plant family:Asteraceae (aster);Sunflower family.

Native to:US wetlands.

Habitat:very common and familiar plant in low meadows and damp ground in North America, extending from Nova Scotia to Florida.

Plant type:Flowering perennial herb.

Bloom period:August – September.

Parts used for medicinal purpose:whole plant.

Constituents:volatile oil, some tannic acid, and Eupatorin, a bitter glucosidal principle, also resin, gum and sugar.

Therapeutic indications of boneset (eupatorium perfoliatum)

• Fever accompanied by aching bones and muscles
• Dengue, malaria, typhoid, yellow fever
• Rheumatoid and gouty arthritis
• Nasopharyngeal catarrh
• Congestion of the respiratory mucosa, acute bronchitis
• Colds and influenza
• Influenza with deep aching, and Pain in bones

Medicinal Properties of Boneset

• Antibacterial:effective against bacteria.
• Anti-inflammatory:Reducing inflammation by acting on body mechanisms.
• Antipyretic/antifebrile/febrifuge:Effective against fever.
• Antiperiodic:preventing periodic returns of disease.
• Antitussive:prevent or relieve a cough.
• Antiviral:effective against viruses.
• Aperient:used to relieve constipation.
• Diaphoretic:inducing perspiration.
• Diuretic:causing increased passing of urine.
• Emetic:causing vomiting.
• Expectorant:promotes the secretion of sputum by the air passages, used to treat coughs.
• Hepatoprotective:protects liver.
• Immunostimulant:stimulate the immune system by inducing activation or increasing activity of any of its components.
• Tonic:give a feeling of vigour or well-being.

Medicinal Uses of Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum)

Boneset has some important medicinal properties such as diaphoretic (sweat causing), stimulant (raises levels of physiological or nervous activity in the body), laxative (loosen stools and increase bowel movements), diuretic (causing increased passing of urine), Expectorant, emetic (high doses), immune-stimulant. Internal intake of Boneset improves digestion and works as tonic for gastrointestinal tract.

Boneset show beneficial effects in intermittent fever, typhoid, yellow fever, influenza, malarial fever and dengue fever. The infusion prepared from leaves has tonifying effect on liver and gall bladder. The leaves infusion is useful in indigestion and fever. The leaves infusions is given early stages of colds and fevers, kidney problems and weakness.

1. In low dose, boneset has tonic effect. For dengue, Eupatorium perfoliatum, is used as preventive and treatment medicine. It has no side effects.
2. The hot tea or infusion induces sweat. The tea prepared from dried leaves of Boneset is used to treat cold, flu and fever. The tea has laxative action.
3. The cold infusion is stimulant and tonic in small dose.
4. The whole plant is applied topically for headaches and fevers.
5. For broken bones, the plant is given internally and poultice is applied externally.

Dosage of Boneset plant

For internal administration, dried herb in given in dose of 1-2g three times daily in form of infusion/tea;2–4 teaspoon of fresh herb and 1–4 ml tincture (1:5 in 45% alcohol) three times a day.

Traditionally for making tea, one tablespoon leaves are soaked in one cup hot water for fifteen water. It has bitter taste. When taken hot, this preparation causes sweat. The cold infusion is tonic for stomach, liver and respiratory system.

Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum) has a long history of documented medicinal use. It shows few or no side effects. Although in large doses it is emetic and purgative.

Contraindications of Boneset

• Large doses of herb can cause vomiting and loose motion.
• The use of this herb should be avoided in pregnancy.
• Herb should not be used for more than one week.
• Boneset plant may cause contact allergic dermatitis in persons hypersensitive to Asteraceae.

Agaru, Agar, Akil, Eaglewood are few common names of evergreen tree Aquilaria agallocha. It is found at altitude of 1500 m above the sea level. In India, Agarwood is mainly found in East Himalayas, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Tripura and Assam. The heartwood of Agar tree has economic and medicinal significance.

Hafizmuar at en.wikipedia[CC BY-SA 3.0 or GFDL] from Wikimedia Commons

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The mature heartwood of the tree is aromatic. The aroma is result of fungal pathogenesis. When the wood of tree is infected by fungi at wounds, it develops patches filled with resin and becomes aromatic. These resin filled patches are scattered. It takes several years to form resin inside the wood. To obtain the resinous part of wood, the trees are cut down due to which this species of tree is critically endangered.

Agru wood is chief ingredient of Agarbatti or incensed sticks. In Ayurveda, Agarwood is used as perfume, stimulant, cholagouge, and deobstruent (clear or open the natural ducts of the fluids and secretions of the body). It is used as an ingredient in preparation of many Ayurvedic medicines which are nervine tonic, carminative and stimulant. The wood is used both internally and externally. The paste of wood is applied on skin diseases and headaches. The essential oil obtained by distillation of wood is applied on wounds, ulcers, ringworms and other chronic skin diseases. The powder of Aguru wood is mixed with honey and given to treat cough. The incense of Aguru gives relief in asthma. In asthmatic attacks, the essential oil of Aguru wood given in dose of 1-2 drops with paan ki patti (leaf of Piper betle).

General Information

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Eaglewood is Aquilaria agallocha Roxb. Its synonym is A. malaccensis Lamk. It belongs to plant family Thymelaceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom:Plantae
• Phylum:Tracheophyta
• Class:Magnoliopsida
• Order:Malvales
• Family:Malvaceae
• Genus:Aquilaria
• Species:A. agallocha

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose:Aromatic resin filled heart wood.

Description of Heart-wood: Drug available in cut pieces, dark brown to nearly black;fracture, hard;

Plant type: large evergreen tree.

Distribution: Assam, North East part of India;also found in Bhutan, Sumatra, Myanmar, Malaya, Malaysia and Philippines.

Habitat: humid, subtropical climate with rainfall 1800-3500 mm annually.

Status: vulnerable, critically endangered.

Vernacular names/Synonyms

• Sanskrit:Aguru, Lauha, Krimija
• Assamese:Agaru
• Bengali:Agaru, Agarkashtha, Agar Chandan
• English:Eagle Wood, Agar wood, Aloe wood,
• Malayan Agar wood, Agallochum;
• Gujrati:Agar
• Hindi:Agar
• Kannada:Krishna Agaru
• Malayalam:Akil
• Marathi:Agar
• Punjabi:Ooda, ooda, pharsi
• Tamil:Akil kattai
• Telugu:Agaru
• Urdu:Ood Hindi, Agar

Constituents of Agarwood/Eaglewood

Agarwood contain aquilochin, liriodenine (an alkaloid), gmelofuran, agarol (novel sesquiterpenes) and chromone derivatives, Agarospirol. The essential oil yields a number of agarofurans, sesquiterpene alcohols and spirosesquiterpene alcohols.

Dosage of Heartwood

1-3 grams in powder form;Oil 1-5 drops;tea 10-40 ml.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action

• Rasa (taste on tongue):Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter)
• Guna (Pharmacological Action):Laghu (Light), Tikshna (Sharp), Snigdha (Unctuous)
• Virya:Ushna (Heating)
• Vipaka (transformed state after digestion):Katu (Pungent)
• Action:reduces phlegm, reduces vata, increases pitta, cures headaches, skin diseases and vomiting.
• Therapeutic uses:Respiratory ailments, diseases of ear, diseases of skin, snakebite.

Medicinal properties

• Anodyne:Relieves pain without causing loss of consciousness.
• Antispasmodic:used to relieve spasm of involuntary muscle.
• Antiemetic:useful in the treatment of vomiting.
• Constipative:causes constipation.
• Stomachic:stimulates gastric activity.
• Sedative:promoting calm or inducing sleep.
• Tonic, nutritive, tissue-builder.

Medicinal Uses of Agarwood (Aquilaria agallocha)

Agar wood powder is used in treatment of excessive thirst in fever, vomiting, cough, headaches, low appetite, indigestion and diarrhea.

Cough

Taking 1-3 grams of powder of Agar heartwood with dry ginger powder and honey is helpful.

Vomiting/Chardi

Take 1-3 grams of Agar wood powder.

Anorexia, low appetite

Take 1-3 grams of Agar wood powder with honey.

Puerperal disorder

Prepare tea of Agarwood and give in dosage of 10-20 ml.

Diseases of skin

Prepare paste of the heartwood and apply at affected body parts.

Snakebite

Apply the paste of wood at affected body part.

Nux-vomica is also known as Vishtinduka (Visha means poison), Vishamushthi, and Poison-nut due to its poisonous properties. It is a powerful poison in large doses, producing convulsions and even death. In Ayurveda, this tree is included in Upvisha Varg (sub poisonous group).

The seeds of Kuchala are used in Ayurveda only after proper shodhan or purification. The detoxified seeds of Kuchla are used in treatment of neuralgia, facial palsy, hemiplegia, arthritis, gout, muscle pain, nerve pain etc. in low recommended dosage only. The seeds are nervine tonic and digestive.

Nux-vomica gives relief in excessive vata and pain. It strengthens and stimulates nerves. It is a good appetizer, digestive and cures indigestion.

General Information

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Kuchla/Kupilu/ Vishatinduka is Strychnos nux-vomica Linn. It belongs to plant family Loganiaceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom:Plantae
• Subkingdom:Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision:Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division:Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class:Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
• Subclass:Asteridae
• Order:Gentianales
• Family:Loganiaceae – Logania family
• Genus:Strychnos L. – strychnos
• Species:Strychnos nux-vomica L. – strychnine tree
• Part(s) used for medicinal purpose:mainly seeds.
• Plant type:Tree.

Vernacular names/Synonyms

• Ayurvedic:Kapilu, Kakatinduka, Kakendu, Kakapiluka, Vishamushtikaa, Vishamushti, Vishatinduka, Kuchila, Ksuchala
• Unani:Azaraaqi, Kuchla.
• Siddha:Yettikkottai
• Assamese:Ajraki, Habbul gurab, Kucila
• Bengali:Kuchila
• English:Poison-nut tree, Nux vomica, Strychnine tree, Snake-wood
• Gujrati:Konchala, Jher Kochla, Kuchla, Zer Kochalu
• Hindi:Kuchala, Kuchila, Bish tendu, Bailewa, Chibbige, Chilbinge, Kajra
• Kannada:Kanjihemushti, Manjira, Hemmushti, Ittongi, Kasarkayi
• Malayalam:Kajjl, Kanniram
• Marathi:Kajra, Kuchla
• Punjabi:Kuchla
• Tamil:Yettimaram, Kakotee, Ettikottai, Ettikkai
• Telugu:Mushti, Mushini
• Urdu:Azaraqi, Kuchla
• Arabic:Izaragi, Khanek-ul-kella
• Persian:Fulusmahi, Izaraki

BOTANICAL DESCRIPTION

A deciduous tree, upto 30 m high, often with sharp axillary spines;Leaves broadly elliptic, 7.5-15 x 4.5 -7.5 cm, 5-nerved, glabrous, shining;Flowers greenish white, in terminal, pedunculate, compound cymes;Fruit globose, 2.5 - 7.5 cm in diameter, orange-red when ripe;Seeds greenish-grey to grey, extremely hard, silky to touch with a satiny sheen;disc-shaped, almost flat, umbonate but a few seeds somewhat irregularly bent, 10 to 30 mm in diameter, 4 to 6 mm thick, margin rounded or depressed;when cut open, endosperm found to be horny, having a central cavity in which the embryo is situated with two small, thin, cordate, leafy cotyledons with 5 to 7 veins and a terete radicle;odourless.

DISTRIBUTION

Nux-vomica is found throughout tropical India up to an altitude of 360 m, in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Orissa, Coromandel coast, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. It is most common in the forests along the western coast.

Constituents of Nux-vomica seeds

Alkaloids, Indole Alkaloids, Strychnine & Brucine, Monoterpenoid Glycoside (Loganin), α, β -Colubrine, Vomicine.

Strychnine C₂₁H₂₂N₂O₂ is poisonous alkaloid. It is bitter in taste and slightly soluble in water. It affects affecting the cerebro-spinal system.

AYURVEDIC PROPERTIES

Kuchla is used in treatment of Vata diseases. It is nervine tonic and central nervous system CNS stimulant. It reduces kapha. In Ayurveda, the seeds of tree are used only after proper detoxification. It is a powerful poison.

In Ayurveda, the following properties and action of Nux-vomica are described.

1. Rasa (taste on tongue):Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter)
2. Guna (Pharmacological Action):Laghu (Light), Tikshna (Sharp), Ruksha (Dry)
3. Virya:Ushna (Heating)
4. Vipaka (transformed state after digestion):Katu (Pungent)
5. Action:Shoth-har, Vedanasthapana, Uttejaka, Nadibalya, Deepana, Pachan, Grahi, Hriday-uttejak, Kaphaghna, Kasa-har, Vajikaran, Balya, Kushthaghna, Kandughna, Jantunashana, Vranshodhana.

Therapeutic uses:indigestion, piles, itching, Gastro Enteritis, wounds, paralysis, nerves weakness, sciatica, arthritis.

Medicinal Properties

1. Abortifacient:abortion causing.
2. Antiperiodic:preventing periodic returns of disease.
3. Convulsant:producing sudden and involuntary muscle contractions.
4. CNS stimulant:speed up physical and mental processes.
5. Emmenagogue:stimulates or increases menstrual flow.
6. Sedatives, anodynes, tonic
7. Stomachic:promoting the appetite or assisting digestion.
8. Nervine tonic:acts therapeutically upon the nerves, particularly in the sense of a sedative that serves to calm ruffled nerves.
9. Poison
10. Respiratory stimulant:increase in respiratory rate and tidal volume
11. Nux vomica is also used as rat poison due to presence of alkaloids strychnine and brucine.

Medicinal Uses of Nux vomica

The root bark is bitter, tonic, febrifuge. It is useful in cholera, snakebite and intermittent fever.

The leaves are applied as poultice in the treatment of chronic wounds and ulcers.

The seeds are bitter, nervine, tonic, alexiteric, aphrodisiac, appetiser, antiperiodic, anthelmintic, emetic, digestive, febrifuge, emmenagogue, purgative, stimulant and stomachic. They are useful in anemia, asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, diabetes, colic, intermittent and malarial fevers, insomnia, skin diseases, nervous debility, dyspepsia, diarrhea, dysentery, hysteria, mental emotions, epilepsy, chronic constipation, gout, chronic rheumatism, hydrophobia, spermatorrhoea, opium or lead poisoning, paralysis and weakness of limbs.

Warning:

• Nux vomica is UNSAFE.
• The seed contains the toxic alkaloid strychnine.
• Strychnine is also found in roots, wood, bark, fruit pulp and hard fruit shells.
• The strychnine can cause liver damage.
• Due to presence of alkaloids and chemicals, Nux vomica seeds affects the brain and cause muscle contractions. This can lead to convulsions and death.
• Small amount of Strychnine can be stored in body with continued use, especially in people with liver disease. This can cause death in a period of weeks.
• It increases menstrual flow and causes abortion.
• Lethal dose of seeds is 1-2 grams of seeds.

Oleander is found all over India. It is an ornamental plant and commonly seen in gardens and on road sides. There are three common varieties of oleander plant available (with white, yellow, red flowers) and all are poisonous. The leaf intake causes vomiting, lightheadedness, and heart block. It is known as Ashwamarak in Sanskrit which means one that kills horse. The intake of only fifteen grams of fresh leaves of this plant can kill a horse.

All parts of Oleander plant produce poisonous latex. The kernel possess nearly seven times as much glycosides as leaves, stems, flowers or fruit pulp. The roots and bark also contain glycosides. The glycosides of plant have direct effect on heart. It produces a fall in right arterial pressure and a rise in cardiac output.

"Starr 060916-8882 Thevetia peruviana" by Forest & Kim Starr. Licensed under CC BY 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

In Ayurveda, white Oleander is used in treatment of functional disorders of the heart, in cardiac insufficiency and skin diseases.

General Information

Kaner/Oleander is a large glabrous, evergreen, woody shrub with milky juice, found throughout the year in upper Gangetic plains, Himalayas from Nepal to Kashmir upto 2000 m, Central and Southern India;also cultivated near the temples and gardens.

Scientific Classification

The white and red-flowered varieties are equated with Nerium indicum, Synonym:Nerium oleander;both possess similar properties. The yellow-flowered variety is equated with Thevetia peruviana.

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:Gentianales
• Family:Apocynaceae – Dogbane family
• Genus:Nerium L. – oleander
• Species:Nerium oleander L. – oleander

SYNONYM:

Yellow-flowered variety

• Latin name:Thevetia peruviana (Pers.)
• English:Yellow Oleander.
• Ayurvedic:Pita-Karavira, Ashvaghna, Divyapushpa.
• Siddha/Tamil:Pachiyalari.
• Hindi:Kaner
• White-flowered and red-flowered varieties
• Latin name:Nerium oleander;Synonym:Nerium indicum Mill.;Nerium odorum Aiton.
• English:Red Oleander, Rose Bay, Rose Laurel.
• Unani:Surkh Kaner.
• Sanskrit:Karavirah, Ashvamarak, Hayamara

Vernacular names of Kaner in India

• Hindi:Karavira, Kaner
• Bengali:Karabi, Karbbe, Karbee
• Malayalam:Arali, Kanaveeram
• Tamil:Sivappu, Arali, Sevvarali, Alari, Aatrulari
• Kannada:Kanagilu, Kharjahar, Kanigale, Kanagile
• Assamese:Diflee, Sammulhimar
• Gujarati:Kaner
• Marathi:Kanher
• Punjabi:Kanir
• Telugu:Kastooripatte, Errugumeru, Ganneru
• Urdu:Kaner

DESCRIPTION

Ornamental shrub or small, densely branched tree, 1 to 10 m tall in the Dogbane family Apocynaceae. Leaves are in pairs of three or whorled, very green, leathery, narrowly elliptic to linear entire. Flowers grow in clusters in terminal branches, each 2.5 to 5 cm, funnel-shaped with five lobes, fragrant, various colors from pink to red, white, peach, and yellow.

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose:roots, leaves and bark of Nerium oleander.

Plant type:Shrub.

Distribution:All over India. Native to Mediterranean region. It is distributed from Mediterranean to Western China.

Constituents of Nerium oleander

The leaves and roots gave a number of active principles including glycosides, terpenoids, sterols and other compounds.

Cardiac steroids, isolated from the leaf, include oleandrin, gentiobiosyl oleandrin, odoroside.

The stem contained alanine arginine, aspartic acid, cysteine, glutamic acid, glycine, histidine, leucine, isoleucine, lysine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, threonine, tryptophan, tyrosine and valine. A polysaccharide containing galacturonic acid, rhamnose, arabinose and galactose has been isolated from leaves.

Poisonous plant:Toxic cardiac glycosides, oleandrin, oleandroside, nerioside, digitoxigenin, thevetin, and thevetoxin are present in all parts of plant.

Symptoms of Oleander Poisoning

Ingestion of any part of plant causes nausea, vomiting, cramping, bloody diarrhea, irritation to the mucosal membranes, resulting in burning around the mouth and increased salivation, confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, weakness, visual disturbances, cardiac abnormalities, ventricular dysrhythmias, tachyarrhythmias, bradycardia, and heart block.

Medicinal properties of Oleander

• Abortifacient:causes abortion.
• Adaptogen:help the body adapt to stress.
• Analgesic:acting to relieve pain.
• Anticancer:used in the prevention or treatment of cancer.
• Anti-inflammatory:used to reduce inflammation.
• Antibacterial, Antiseptic, Antiulcer
• Bradycardic:slows heart rate.
• CNS Depressant:slow brain activity.
• Cyanogenic:capable of producing cyanide.
• Emetic:causing vomiting.
• Emmenagogue:stimulates or increases menstrual flow.
• Negative Chronotropic:decrease heart rate.
• Poison:capable of causing the illness or death of a living organism when introduced or absorbed.
• Spasmogenic:inducing spasm
• Fungicide, Insecticide, Larvicide, Parasiticide, Rodenticide (-cide=kills)

Medicinal Uses of White oleander

In Ayurveda, the roots, leaves and bark of Karvira/Nerium oleander are used for medicinal purpose. These are used in very precise dosage. The dried roots powder in dosage of 30-125 mg, is used for head ache, parasites, inflammation, itching and diseases of skin.

The dried leaf powder in dosage of 30-125 mg, is used for diseases of heart, fever, parasites, diseases of skin, diseases of eyes, wounds and asthma. The leaves are first detoxified as per Ayurvedic treatise.

An Ayurvedic medicine, Karanjadi Taila contains Kaner as an ingredient. This oil is useful in various kinds of skin infections, including ringworm (dermatophytes). It consists of seeds of karanj (Pongamia pinnata), kuth, chitrakmul (Plumbago zeylanica), chameli puspa (Jasminum sp.), and Kaner (Nerium oleander).

Below is given few remedies using Nerium oleander/Kaner. These are given just for information purpose. Always remember all parts of oleander plant are poisonous. Always wash your hands after touching any part of plant.

Face pack

The paste of flowers can be applied on face.

Hemorrhoids

The paste of roots are applied externally on the hemorrhoids.

Joint pain

The paste of leaves is mixed with oil and applied on the affected joints.

Skin diseases

The decoction of white flowered Kaner is boiled in 'Rai ka tel' to make medicated oil. This oil is applied at affected body areas.

Itching

The medicated oil prepared from the leaves paste of Kaner is applied externally.

Pain in ear

Juice prepared from the stem bark is boiled with gingelly oil and two drops are poured into ear to treat ear pain.

Leprosy, scorpion sting, snake bite, ulcers, Diseases of skin

The paste of roots is applied externally.

Swelling ulcers on penis

The decoction of leaves is used to wash the affected areas.

Venomous bite

Externally apply the juice of leaves.

Warning/Caution

• All parts of this plant are poisonous.
• Accidental and therapeutic use of leaf has resulted in partially fatal poisonings.
• Overdoses may cause arrhythmia, bradycardia, cardiodepression, confusion, cyanosis, diarrhea, headache, hyperkalemia, nausea, neurodepression, stupor, and vomiting.
• 15–20 g fresh leaf can kill a horse, 1–5g a sheep.
• Ingesting a handful of flowers is lethal.
• Most symptoms from oleander poisoning are cardiac and gastrointestinal in nature and appear four hours after the ingestion.
• Oleander poisoning can be fatal with relatively small amounts ingested.
• Wash hands carefully after touching the leaves, flower and latex.
• Educate children about the poisonous properties of plant.

REFERENCES

1. Frohne DP, Fander HJ. A colour Atlass of poisonous plants. London:Wolfe Publishing LTD;1984.
2. Ansford AJ, Morris H. Fatal oleander poisoning. Med J Aust. 1981;1:360–1.
3. humaik GM, Wu AW, Ping AC. Oleander poisoning:Treatment with digoxin- specific Fab antibody fragments. Ann Emerg Med. 1988;17:732–5.
4. Behcet Al, Yarbil P, Dogan M, Kabul S, Yildirm C. A case of non-fatal oleander poisoning. BMJ Case Reports.

Sharapunkha herb is used in Ayurveda specifically for treating diseases of liver and spleen. Its oral intake improves the function of liver. It is used in treatment of liver diseases like hepatitis, cirrhosis from ancient time. This herb promotes regeneration of liver tissues. It removes obstruction of kidney. Sharapunkha is also used in treatment of many other diseases such as bronchitis, asthma, fever, jaundice, ascites, dropsy etc.

General Information

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Sharpunkha is Tephrosia purpurea. Shwet Sharapunkhaa (stems:covered with white hair;flowers:pale pink or pale violet) is equated with T. villosaPers.

This herb belongs to plant family Fabaceae (pea family). Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

1. Kingdom:Plantae
2. Sub kingdom:Tracheobionta
3. Superdivision:Spermatophyta
4. Divison:Magnoliophyta
5. Class:Magnoliopside
6. Sub class:Rosidae
7. Order:Fabales
8. Family:Leguminosae (fabaceae)
9. Subfamily:Papilonaceae
10. Genus:Tephrosia Pers.
11. Species:Tephrosia purpurea (Linn) Pers.
12. Synonym:T. hamiltonii Drumm

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose:entire plant;decoction of whole plant, root powder and root juice, leaf juice, leaf powder.

Plant type:wasteland weed.

Distribution:All over India;also grown as green manure and as cover crop.

Vernacular names/Synonyms

• Ayurvedic:Sharapunkha, Vishikha-punkha, Sarphoka, Surpunkha, Plihaa-shatru, Plihaari
• Unani:Sarponkha, Sarphuka.
• Siddha:Kattu-kolingi, Kolingi, Paavali, Mollukkay, Kollukkayvelai.
• Sanskrit:Sarapunkah, Sarpunkha, Sarpankha
• Hindi:Sarphomka, Sarphonk, Sarpunkha, Sarpankha
• Bengali:Bannilgach
• Malayalam:Kattamari, Kozhinjil
• Tamil:Kattukkolincai
• Kannada:Phanike
• Gujarati:Unnali
• Rajasthani:Masa
• Punjabi:Jhojro
• Marathi:Untoali
• English:Purple Tephrosia, Fish poison, Wild indigo
• French:Bois nivre
• Persian:Barg sufar
• Urdu:Sarfonka
• Sinhalese:Pila, Kavilai, Kolinchi
• Hawaiian:Auhuhu, Auhola, Hola

BOTANIC DESCRIPTION

Tephrosia purpurea is a small shrub that grows up to 1.5 meters tall. It has bi-pinnate leaves with 7 to 15 leaflets, the terminal leaflet being solitary. The leaflets are 10 to 32 mm long and 5 to 11 mm wide. The peas like flowers are white to purple and arranged in inflorescences that are up to 25 cm long. The individual flowers have corolla parts that are between 2 to 3 mm long. The pods are straight and somewhat up curved at the terminal end and may range from 20 to 45 mm in length and 3 to 5 mm breadth. When dry, the pods split along two valves to reveal 2 to 9 black rectangular seeds 2.5 to 5 mm long and 1.8 to 3 mm wide.

Constituents of Sarpunkha

The plant contain flavonoids such as rutin, purpurin, purpurenone and purpuritenin and quercetin, retenoids like deguelin, elliptone, rotenone, tephrosin and sterols such as sitosterol. .The major constituents are Rutin, quercetin, retenoids deguelin, elliptone, rotenone, tephrosin and lupeol.

Important Medicinal properties of Purple Tephrosia (Tephrosia Purpurea) Sharpunkha

• Anthelmintic:expel parasitic worms (helminths) and other internal parasites from the body.
• Antipyretic/antifebrile/febrifuge:Effective against fever.
• Anti-hyperglycemic:counteracting high levels of glucose in the blood.
• Deobstruent:Removing obstructions;having power to clear or open the natural ducts of the fluids and secretions of the body.
• Diuretic:Promoting excretion of urine/agent that increases the amount of urine excreted.
• Depurative:Purifying agent.
• Hepatoprotective:prevent damage to the liver.
• Immunomodulatory:modifies the immune response or the functioning of the immune system.
• Laxative:tending to stimulate or facilitate evacuation of the bowels.

How to Use Sarpunkha plant

For medicinal purpose whole plant is used in form of juice, paste, decoction and powder.

Paste:The leaves, flowers and tender twigs are washed and ground to form a paste.

Leaf juice:The leaf juice is extracted by pounding leaves and then squeezing through clothes. Dosage:14-28 ml.

Dry powder of plant:For making power of plant, the plant parts are cleaned, cut and dried in the sun.

The dried parts are then ground to get the powder. Dosage:3-5 grams.

Decoction:For making decoction, five to ten grams of dried powder of whole plant is taken and boiled in one glass of water. It is cooked till volume reduces to one-fourth. It is filtered and taken.

Medicinal Uses of Sharpunkha

In Ayurveda, whole plant of Sharpunkha is used for medicinal purpose. All parts of the plant have tonic and laxative properties. The dried plant is deobstruent and diuretic. It is used in treatment of bronchitis, obstructions of the liver, spleen and kidneys.

Sharpunkha dry powder is also used in removing toxins from the blood. It works like a blood purifying agent and is useful treatment of boils, pimples and other skin diseases.

The decoction of the fruit is indicated in intestinal parasites.

Sharpunkha plant has property to heal all types of wounds (Sarva vranvishapaka).

Liver cirrhosis, jaundice, and other Diseases of liver, Spleen diseases

1. Prepare decoction of plant and drink twice a day.

2. Fresh juice (14-28 ml) of whole plant is given twice daily.

3. Powder (1-3 gram) of whole plant is given with one cup milk.

Enlargement of spleen, Diseases of spleen and liver

1. Paste of root (1 to 2 gram) is given with butter milk/Chach, twice daily.

2. Drink decoction of plant.

Dropsy

Fresh juice (14-28 ml) of whole plant is given twice daily.

Angina pain, heart palpitation

Prepare decoction by boiling Sharpunkha panchang (5 gram), Arjun bark (5 gram) and Clove (2-3) in one glass water. Cook till initial volume reduces to one-fourth. Filter and drink. Take twice a day.

Excessive cough, coughing, Kasa

Prepare decoction by boiling Sharpunkha panchang (panchang means all five parts of plant viz. leaves, stem, flowers, fruits and roots) (5 gram), tulsi patti (7 leaves) and dry ginger powder (2-3 gram) in one glass water. Cook till initial volume reduces to one-fourth. Filter and drink.

Hyperacidity

Drink decoction of Sharpunkha panchang.

Abdominal pain, flatulence

Drink decoction of Sharpunkha panchang.

Removing toxins from blood, blood purifying, diseases of skin, boils

Prepare decoction of Sharpunkha plant with few Neem leaves and drink.

Malarial fever, Visham Jwar

Prepare decoction by boiling Sharpunkha panchang (5 gram), and giloy powder (5 gram) in one glass water. Cook till initial volume reduces to one-fourth. Filter and drink. Give twice a day.

External Uses

Toothache

The leaves of the plant are pounded to make a paste which is applied on teeth for ½ hours/day for three days.

Non-healing wounds

Boil Sharpunkha and few neem leaves in water and Wash the affected area.

Swelling, inflammation

Prepare poultice of plant and tie at the affected area.

Reference

• Khatri A, Garg A, Agrawal SS. Evaluation of hepatoprotective activity of aerial parts of Tephrosia purpurea L. and stem bark of Tecomella undulata. J Ethnopharmacol 2009;
• Rangama BNLD, Abayasekara CL, Panagoda GJ. Antibiotic activity of Tephrosia purpurea (fabaceae)
• and Mimusops elengi (sapotaceae) against some clinical bacterial isolates. Proc Peradeniya Univ Res
• Sess. 2007;
• Damre AS, Gokhale AB, Phadke AS, Kulkarni KR, Saraf MN. Studies the immunomodulator activity of flavonoidal fraction of Tephrosia purpurea. Fitoterapia 2003;74:257.61.