Ayurveda the divine science of life -14

Ayurveda the divine science of life

Constituents: A´svagandha¯ contains steroidal compounds

of great interest to researchers, including

ergostane type steroidal lactones, including withanolides

A-Y, dehydrowithanolide-R, withasomniferin-A,

withasomidienone, withasomniferols A-C, withaferin A,

withanone and others. Other constituents include the

phytosterols sitoindosides VII-X and -sitosterol, as

well as alkaloids (e.g. ashwagandhine, cuscohygrine,

tropine, pseudotropine, isopelletierine, anaferine),

a variety of amino acids, including tryptophan, and

high amounts of iron (Mills & Bone 2000, Williamson

2002, Yoganarasimhan 2000).

Medical research:

● In vitro: antifungal (Choudhary et al 1995), antibacterial

(Arora et al 2004), anti-angiogenic

(Mohan et al 2004), cholinergic (Schliebs et al

1997), GABA-nergic (Mehta et al 1991)

● In vivo: adaptogenic (Bhattacharya & Muruganandam

2003), anti-oxidant (Archana & Namasivayam

1999), anti-inflammatory (al Hindawi et al

1989), neuroprotective (Parihar & Hemnani

2003), neuroregenerative (Kuboyama et al 2005),

immunostimulant (Davis & Kuttan 1999, Dhuley

1998b, Ziauddin et al 1996), anti-oxidant

(Bhattacharya et al 1997, Dhuley 1998a), hypoglycaemic

(Hemalatha et al 2004), anti-ischaemic

(Chaudhary et al 2003), cardioprotective (Gupta

et al 2004, Mohanty et al 2004), anti-angiogenic

(Mohan et al 2004), chemoprotective (Davis &

Kuttan 1998, Diwanay et al 2004, Jena et al 2003,

Kuttan 1996), myeloprotective (Davis & Kuttan

1999), radioprotective (Mathur et al 2004), antitumour

(Christina et al 2004, Devi 1996, Devi

et al 1995, Kaur et al 2004, Leyon & Kuttan 2004,

Menon et al 1997, Sharad et al 1996), antiwithdrawal

(Kulkarni & Ninan 1997)

● Human trials: A´svagandha¯ demonstrated hypoglycaemic

and hypolipidaemic effects in non-insulindependent

diabetic and hypercholesterolaemic

patients (Andallu & Radhika 2000); a herbal formulation

containing Withania somnifera root,

Boswellia serrata stem, Curcuma longa rhizome and

zinc (Articulin-F) was found to promote a significant

drop in severity of pain and disability in

osteoarthritic patients, with minimal side-effects

(Kulkarni et al 1991); a proprietary formulation

(Immu–25) containing A´svagandha¯ was found to

promote a significant decrease in viral loads and an

increase in CD4counts in patients with HIV (Usha

et al 2003).

A´svagandha¯, ‘smelling like a horse’

BOTANICAL NAME: Withania somnifera, Solanaceae

OTHER NAMES: Ashgandh (H); Amukkira (T); Winter Cherry (E)

A´svagandha¯, ‘smelling like a horse’ 169

Toxicity: A´svagandha¯ appears to be very safe, with

an LD50 of a 50% alcohol extract determined to be

1000 mg/kg in rats (Aphale et al 1998, Williamson

2002).

Indications: Anorexia, bronchitis, asthma, consumption,

leucoderma, oedema, asthenia, anaemia,

exhaustion, ageing, insomnia, ADD/ADHD, infertility,

impotence, repeated miscarriage, paralysis, memory

loss, multiple sclerosis, immune dysfunction,

immunodeficiency, cancer, rheumatism, arthritis,

lumbago.

Contraindications: Caution should be used with

patients on anticonvulsants, barbiturates and benzodiazepines

due to its GABA-nergic and sedative properties.

A´svagandha¯ is traditionally avoided in

lymphatic congestion, during colds and flu, or symptoms

of a¯ma (Frawley & Lad 1986).

Medicinal uses: A´svagandha¯ is often considered the

Indian equivalent to Ginseng (Panax ginseng), but

unlike Ginseng, A´svagandha¯ has a ‘sedative’

(nidra¯janana) rather than stimulant action on the

central nervous system, making it a superior medicine

for exhaustion with nervous irritability. A´svagandha¯

is a useful nervine, taken before bed to relax and nourish

the body in deficiency diseases, but is only seen to

be efficacious when taken on a sustained basis – it is

not a sufficient sedative to treat acute insomnia. For

poor memory, lack of concentration and in the treatment

of ADD/ADHD A´svagandha¯ may be used in

equal proportions with Bra¯hmı¯ and Ling zhi

(Ganoderma lucidum). A´svagandha¯ is widely used in

any debility, emaciation or consumptive condition, in

both adults and children (Kirtikar & Basu 1935,

Nadkarni 1954). One rejuvenating preparation can be

made by mixing A´svagandha¯ with 10–15% Pippalı¯,

taken with one half part ghr. ta and one part honey on

an empty stomach, morning and evening. As its name

‘smelling like a horse’ suggests, A´svagandha¯ is an

important vajı¯karan. a dravya, indicating the sexual

potency of a stallion, used in the treatment of infertility,

impotence and ‘seminal depletion’ (Nadkarni

1954). When mixed with equal parts ´Sata¯varı¯, it is an

appropriate treatment for female infertility and frigidity,

useful in threatened miscarriage, and is an excellent

post-partum restorative. In the treatment of

uterine prolapse a paste prepared from equal parts

A´svagandha¯, Vaca¯, Kus.

t.

ha, Haridra¯, Marica and

Nı¯lotpala is recommended by the Cakradatta to

restore uterine tone (Sharma 2002). In the treatment

of infertility in both sexes a simple decoction of A´svagandha

¯ in milk is indicated, taken with ghr.ta as an

anupa¯na (Sharma 2002). Similarly, a medicated

taila called A´svagandha¯di taila is prepared

by decocting A´svagandha¯, ´Sata¯varı¯, Kus.

t.

ha,

Jat.

a¯ma¯msı¯ and Br. hatı¯ in sesame oil, massaged into

the breasts and genitalia to make them stronger and

larger (Sharma 2002). Mixed with equal parts

Vr.ddhada¯ruka, A´svagandha¯ cu¯rn.

a is allowed to sit

in a pot with ghr. ta for a few days, and is then administered

in doses of 12 g taken with milk as

a vajı¯karan. a rasa¯yana (Srikanthamurthy 1984).

In the treatment of consumptive conditions the

Cakradatta recommends a decoction of equal parts

A´svagandha¯, Gud.u¯cı¯, ´Sata¯varı¯, Da´samu¯la, Bala¯,

Va¯saka, Pus.karamu¯la root and Ativis.a¯, taken in

conjunction with a diet of milk and meat broth

(Sharma 2002). A more recently developed formula

by the Hospital of Integrated Medicine in Madras is

A´svagandha¯di lehya, used in dosages of 6–12 g in

milk to strengthen the body, and promote fertility and

long life (India 1978). For poor eyesight A´svagandha¯

powder is mixed with equal proportions of

Yas.t.

imadhu powder and the fresh juice of A¯malakı¯

(Nadkarni 1954). Nadkarni (1954) mentions

that A´svagandha¯ is used in the treatment of antiinflammatory

joint disease, but it may facilitate the

production of a¯ma (Frawley & Lad 1986), and thus an

eliminative regimen is best implemented prior to using

this herb. Likewise, A´svagandha¯ is an appropriate

remedy in the treatment of asthma and bronchitis

(Kirtikar & Basu 1935), but should be used concurrently

with dravyas that have a dı¯panapa¯cana property

to avoid the production of a¯ma. Warrier et al

(1996) mention that a paste made of the roots and

bruised leaves may be applied to carbuncles, ulcers

and painful swellings. Based on its traditional use and

the experimental data A´svagandha¯ appears to be an

excellent choice to support the health of patients

undergoing conventional cancer treatment or suffering

from immunodeficiency, to protect against injury

and infection, improve immune status, and enhance

recovery. Combined with Yas.t.

imadhu and used in

sufficient doses A´svagandha¯ may be used to wean a

patient off corticosteroid therapy, or may be used in

place of it.

170 PART 2: A¯ yurvedic materia medica

Dosage:

● Cu¯rn.

a: 3–15 g b.i.d.–t.i.d.

● Kva¯tha: 1:4, 60–120 mL b.i.d.–t.i.d.

● Tincture: fresh root, 1:2, 95% alcohol; dried root,

1:3; 35% alcohol; 1–15 mL b.i.d. t.i.d.

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Andallu B, Radhika B 2000 Hypoglycemic, diuretic and hypocholesterolemic

effect of winter cherry (Withania somnifera,

Dunal) root. Indian Journal of Experimental Biology

38(6):607–609

Aphale AA, Chhibba AD, Kumbhakarna NR et al 1998 Subacute

toxicity study of the combination of ginseng (Panax ginseng)

and ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in rats: a safety

assessment. Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology

42(2):299–302

Archana R, Namasivayam A 1999 Antistressor effect of Withania

somnifera. Journal of Ethnopharmacology 64(1):91–93

Arora S, Dhillon S, Rani G, Nagpal A 2004 The in vitro antibacterial/

synergistic activities of Withania somnifera extracts.

Fitoterapia 75(3–4):385–388

Bhattacharya SK, Muruganandam AV 2003 Adaptogenic activity

of Withania somnifera: an experimental study using a rat

model of chronic stress. Pharmacology, Biochemistry, and

Behavior 75(3):547–555

Bhattacharya SK, Satyan KS, Ghosal S 1997 Anti-oxidant activity

of glycowithanolides from Withania somnifera. Indian Journal

of Experimental Biology 35(3):236–239

Chaudhary G, Sharma U, Jagannathan NR, Gupta YK 2003

Evaluation of Withania somnifera in a middle cerebral artery

occlusion model of stroke in rats. Clinical and Experimental

Pharmacology and Physiology 30(5–6):399–404

Choudhary MI, Dur-e-Shahwar Z, Parveen A et al 1995 Antifungal

steroidal lactones from Withania coagulance. Phytochemistry

40(4):1243–1246

Christina AJ, Joseph DG, Packialakshmi M et al 2004

Anticarcinogenic activity of Withania somnifera Dunal against

Dalton’s ascitic lymphoma. Journal of Ethnopharmacology

93(2–3):359–361

Dash B 1991 Materia medica of Ayurveda. B. Jain Publishers, New

Delhi, p 59

Dash B, Junius M 1983 A handbook of Ayurveda. Concept

Publishing, New Delhi

Davis L, Kuttan G 1998 Suppressive effect of cyclophosphamideinduced

toxicity by Withania somnifera extract in mice.

Journal of Ethnopharmacology 62(3):209–214

Davis L, Kuttan G 1999 Effect of Withania somnifera on cytokine

production in normal and cyclophosphamide treated mice.

Immunopharmacology and Immunotoxicology

21(4):695–703

Devi PU 1996 Withania somnifera Dunal (Ashwagandha): potential

plant source of a promising drug for cancer chemotherapy

and radiosensitization. Indian Journal of Experimental Biology

34(10):927–932

Devi PU, Sharada AC, Solomon FE 1995 In vivo growth inhibitory

and radiosensitizing effects of withaferin A on mouse Ehrlich

ascites carcinoma. Cancer Letters 95(1–2):189–193

Dhuley JN 1998a Effect of Ashwagandha on lipid peroxidation in

stress-induced animals. Journal of Ethnopharmacology

60(2):173–178

Dhuley JN 1998b Therapeutic efficacy of Ashwagandha against

experimental aspergillosis in mice. Immunopharmacology and

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Diwanay S, Chitre D, Patwardhan B 2004 Immunoprotection by

botanical drugs in cancer chemotherapy. Journal of

Ethnopharmacology 90(1):49–55

Frawley D, Lad V 1986 The yoga of herbs: an Ayurvedic guide to

herbal medicine. Lotus Press, Santa Fe, p 160

Gupta SK, Mohanty I, Talwar KK et al 2004 Cardioprotection from

ischemia and reperfusion injury by Withania somnifera:

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Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry 260(1–2):39–47

Hemalatha S, Wahi AK, Singh PN, Chansouria J 2004

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172 PART 2: A¯ yurvedic materia medica

Botany: Sida cordifolia is a small highly branched

shrub covered in a woolly pubescence. The leaves are

2.5–5 cm long, cordate, crenate, borne on long petioles

up to 3.8 cm long. The yellow flowers are solitary

or found in pairs in the leaf axils, the calyx 6–8 mm

long, the corolla slightly extending beyond the calyx.

The fruit is a schizocarp, 6–8 mm in diameter, containing

7–10 carpels. Bala¯ is found in tropical and

subtropical regions in both hemispheres, often as an

invasive weed of tropical pastures (Kirtikar & Basu

1935).

Part used: Root and leaves.

Dravygun. a: root

● Rasa: madhura

● Vipa¯ka: guru

● Vı¯rya: ´sita

● Karma: purı ¯s.asangrahan. iya, jvaraghna, ka¯sahara,

raktaprasa¯dana, hr . daya, balya, medhya, vajı¯karan. a,

jı ¯vanı ¯ya, br . mhan. a, va¯tapittahara (Dash 1991,

Srikanthamurthy 2001, Warrier et al 1996).

Constituents: Researchers have isolated an acylsteryglycoside

sitoindoside from Bala¯, as well as small

amounts of the alkaloid ephedrine, ecdysteroids (glyceryl–

1-eicosanoate, 20-hydroxy,24-hydroxymethylecdysone),

-sitosterol and other phytosterols, palmatic,

stearic and hexacosanoic acids, and resins. The seeds are

stated to contain upwards of four times the amount of

ephedrine as the rest of the plant (Darwish & Reinecke

2003, Kapoor 1990, Yoganarasimhan 2000).

Medical research:

● In vitro: anti-oxidant (Auddy et al 2003), antimalarial

(Banzouzi et al 2004, Karou et al 2003),

antibacterial (Islam et al 2003)

● In vivo: anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and hypoglycaemic

(Kanth & Diwan 1999), chemoprotective

(Jang et al 2003).

Toxicity: No data found.

Indications: Arrhythmia, congestive heart failure,

paralysis, sciatica, neuritis, neuralgia, epilepsy,

rheumatism, asthma, anorexia, fatigue, impotence,

spermatorrhoea, gonorrhoea, cystitis, leucorrhoea,

urinary frequency, diabetes, diarrhoea, dysentery,

haemorrhoids, chronic fever.

Contraindications: kaphakopa, a¯ma (Frawley &

Lad 1986). Use with caution in hypertension due to

the presence of ephedrine.

Medicinal uses: Like many other species in the

Malvaceae, Bala¯ is used in A¯ yurveda for its soothing

and mucilaginous qualities, but unlike the similar

Marshmallow (Althea officinalis), Bala¯ contains small

amounts of ephedrine, making it a mild bronchodilator

with vasoconstrictive properties (Duke 1999,

Nadkarni 1954). Although remedies that promote

sympathetic innervation typically aggravate va¯ta,

Bala¯ is in fact a rejuvenative to va¯ta, and whatever

adrenergic activity the plant has is offset by its other

qualities. Bala¯ has an affinity for diseases of the nervous

system and can be used in a wide variety of conditions

where va¯ta is the main pathogenic factor

(Frawley & Lad 1986). It provides a gentle stimulus

while remaining a nourishing br. mhan. a dravya. In

cases of paralysis a milk decoction of Bala¯ root is

taken along with equal parts A´svagandha¯ root and

Kapikacchu¯. This preparation can also be applied topically,

the steam funneled off from the decoction is

directed onto the affected area by a hose (na¯d. ı¯ sveda).

An excellent taila can be prepared from the root of

Bala¯, useful in abhyan . ga to treat paralysis and

frozen shoulder, and is used externally for tinnitus.

Bala¯, ‘strength’

BOTANICAL NAME: Sida cordifolia, Malvaceae

SIMILAR SPECIES: S. acuta, S. rhombifolia, S. spinosa

OTHER NAMES: Bariar, Barial, Jamglimedhi (H); Arivalmanaippundu,

Kuruntotti (T); Country Mallow (E)

Bala¯, ‘strength’ 173

A liniment made from equal parts of the Bala¯ root

and the formula Da´samu¯la can be used in the treatment

of sciatica (Nadkarni 1954). The Cakradatta

mentions Bala¯ as a useful remedy for diseases of the

heart, used with equal parts Na¯gabala¯ and Arjuna,

and one quarter part Yas.t.

imadhu, decocted and prepared

as a ghr. ta (Sharma 2002). In cases of asthma

Bala¯ can be very useful, but should be used with pungent

tasting botanicals such as Pippalı¯ or Ela¯ to offset

its strong kapha-promoting qualities that may contribute

to bronchial catarrh. In cases of urinary tenesmus

Bala¯ is most useful as a soothing diuretic, taken

along with Kava (Piper methysticum) or Pa¯rasikayava

¯nı¯ as an antispasmodic. The leaves of Bala¯ are

mucilaginous and cooling and may be used internally

as a demulcent in chronic bronchitis, tracheitis, cystitis

and bleeding haemorrhoids (Nadkarni 1954). In

the treatment of Parkinsonism, Bala¯ may be effective

to manage symptoms when taken along with

Kapikacchu¯ (Mucuna pruriens), A´svagandha¯ and

Pa¯rasikayava¯nı¯. There are several similar species in

the Sida genus, including S. acuta, S. humilis,

S. indicum, S. rhombifolia and S. spinosa. Most of these

are generally identified by the suffix ‘bala¯’, such as

Atibala¯, Maha¯bala¯, Na¯gabala¯, etc., but unfortunately

there is no general agreement as to which is

which. Kirtikar & Basu (1935) describe S. spinosa as

Na¯gabala¯ and S. rhombifolia as Atibala¯. According to

Srikanthamurthy (2001) Bala¯ is S. cordifolia,

Maha¯bala¯ is S. rhombifolia, Atibala¯ is a related member

of the Malvaceae called Abutilon indicum, and

Na¯gabala¯ is Grewia hirsuta (Tiliaceae). The

Bha¯vapraka¯´sa mentions Maha¯bala¯ specifically in

dysuria, and as a laxative, whereas Atibala¯ taken

with milk is stated as a treatment for diabetes

(Srikanthamurthy 2001). The Madanaphala

nighan.t.

u mentions Na¯gabala¯ as a treatment for

rakta pitta, a condition characterised by bleeding

from different parts of the body (Dash 1991).

Dosage:

● Cu¯rn.

a: 1–5 g b.i.d.–t.i.d.

● Kva¯tha: 1:4, 30–90 mL b.i.d.–t.i.d.

● Tincture: 1:3, 35% alcohol, 3–5 mL b.i.d.–t.i.d.

REFERENCES

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activity of three Indian medicinal plants, traditionally used for

the management of neurodegenerative diseases. Journal of

Ethnopharmacology 84(2–3):131–138

Banzouzi JT, Prado R, Menan H et al 2004 Studies on medicinal

plants of Ivory Coast: investigation of Sida acuta for in vitro

antiplasmodial activities and identification of an active constituent.

Phytomedicine 11(4):338–341

Darwish FM, Reinecke MG 2003 Ecdysteroids and other constituents

from Sida spinosa L. Phytochemistry

62(8):1179–1184

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Delhi, p 64

Duke J accessed 1999 Chemicals and their biological activities. In:

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Islam ME, Haque ME, Mosaddik MA 2003 Cytotoxicity and antibacterial

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Bangladesh. Phytotherapy Research 17(8):973–975

Jang DS, Park EJ, Kang YH et al 2003 Compounds obtained from

Sida acuta with the potential to induce quinone reductase and

to inhibit 7, 12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene-induced preneoplastic

lesions in a mouse mammary organ culture model.

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Press, Boca Raton, p 303

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Sida acuta Burm. f. (Malvaceae) and Pterocarpus erinaceus

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89(2–3):291–294

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Nadkarni. Popular Prakashan PVP, Bombay, p 1135, 1137

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Chaukhamba, Varanasi, p 306

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Krishnadas Academy, Varanasi, p 250

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Nadu. Self-published, Bangalore, p 497

174 PART 2: A¯ yurvedic materia medica

Botany: Bhalla¯taka is a moderate sized semideciduous

tree, with grey bark that exfoliates in small

irregular flakes. The leaves are simple, alternate, obovate-

oblong, rounded at the apex, glabrous above and

pubescent below. The greenish fruits are ovoid to

oblong drupes that are attached to a swollen, fleshy

receptacle that sits below it and turns yellow when ripe.

Although some sources indicate that Bhalla¯taka

was brought to India from South America by the

Portuguese, it is clearly mentioned and described in

both the Su´sruta and Caraka sam. hita¯s, texts which

antedate the Portuguese by more than a millennium.

S. anacardium is now cultivated all over the world as

a food, in moist tropical forests, and in the subcontinent

ranging from the sub-Himalayas and Assam in

the north, to the coast of Kerala in the south (Kirtikar

& Basu 1935, Warrier et al 1996).

Part used: Pericarp of the nut, a by-product of the

cashew industry.

Dravygun. a:

● Rasa: ka´sa¯ya, madhura

● Vipa¯ka: madhura

● Vı¯rya: us.n.

a, laghu, snigdha, tiks.n.

a

● Karma: dı ¯panapa¯cana, bhedana, jvaraghna,

kr . mighna, ka¯sahara, sva¯sahara, kus.t.

haghna, medhya,

vajı ¯karan. a, va¯takaphahara

● Prabha¯va: The As.t.

a¯ ñga Hr . daya (7th century CE)

considers Bhalla¯taka fruit to be ‘ . . . like fire in

property’ (Dash 1991, Nadkarni 1954,

Srikanthamurthy 1994, 2001; Warrier et al 1996).

Constituents: Bhalla¯taka has been shown to contain

the phenolic glucoside anacardoside and derivatives

of anacardic acid that include a sub-class of

compounds called the bhilawanols. Flavonoid constituents

include semecarpuflavanone, semecarpetin,

jeediflavone, galluflavanone and nallaflavanone.

Bhalla¯taka also contains an assortment of minerals,

vitamins, amino acids and a fixed oil (Gil et al 1995,

Premalatha 2000, Yoganarasimhan 2000).

Medical research:

● In vitro: antifungal (Sharma et al 2002), antiinflammatory

(Selvam & Jachak 2004, Tripathi &

Pandey 2004), antitumour (Chakraborty et al

2004), anti-oxidant (Tripathi et al 2004b).

● In vivo: anti-oxidant (Ramprasath et al 2005,

Shukla et al 2000, Tripathi & Singh 2001, Tripathi

et al 2004, Vijayalakshmi et al 1997b), antiarthritic

(Ramprasath et al 2005, Vijayalakshmi

et al 1997a,b), anti-inflammatory (Ramprasath et

al 2004, Saraf et al 1989, Selvam & Jachak 2004,

Selvam et al 2004), antitumour (Arathi et al 2003,

Indap et al 1983, Premalatha & Sachdanandam

1999, 2000 a–c, Sujatha & Sachdanandam 2002),

anti-atherosclerotic (Sharma et al 1995), hypoglycaemic

(Arul et al 2004), hypolipidaemic (Tripathi

& Pandey 2004).

Toxicity: A toxicological study carried out in rats

administered a Siddha milk extract of Semecarpus anacardium

nuts showed that acute (72 hours) and subacute

(30 days) treatment did not produce mortality at

any dose level given (75–2000 mg/kg body weight),

nor any marked adverse alterations in haematological

and biochemical parameters (Vijayalakshmi et al

2000). The sap of the tree has been shown to be quite

toxic, with one reported case in the literature of severe

dermatitis, anuria and renal cortical necrosis from skin

exposure (Matthai & Date 1979). Preparations of

crude Bhalla¯taka are toxic and should be avoided.

Indications: Dyspepsia, constipation, parasites, haemorrhoids,

cough, asthma, leprosy, syphilis, vitiligo,

Bhalla¯taka, ‘piercing like a spear’

BOTANICAL NAME: Semecarpus anacardium, Anacardiaceae

OTHER NAMES: Bhela, Bhilawa (H); Senkottai, Erimugi (T); Marking Nut, Cashew (E)

Bhalla¯taka, ‘piercing like a spear’ 175

rheumatoid arthritis, sciatica, neuritis, diabetes, dysmenorrhoea,

amenorrhoea, infertility, weakness,

fatigue, cancer, hepatocarcinoma (aflatoxin-induced).

Contraindications: Pregnancy, lactation, pittakopa.

Medicinal uses: Bhalla¯taka has long been considered

an important remedy in the treatment of a variety

of complaints including rheumatism, arthritis,

neuritis, liver disorders and haemorrhoids, considered

‘. . . equal to mercury in action’ (Nadkarni

1954). It is also considered an important remedy in

the treatment of asthma, and in skin diseases such as

psoriasis, and was even highly valued in syphilis. It is

one of the more important remedies, along with

Yogara¯jaguggulu, in the treatment of a¯mava¯ta

(rheumatoid arthritis). The pericarp contains a variety

of toxic principles that can precipitate a skin rash

and renal failure if the dose is too large or if the remedy

is prepared incorrectly. Prepared properly, however,

Bhalla¯taka has been shown to be remarkably

non-toxic and very safe (Vijayalakshmi et al 2000).

Among the many preparations that contain

Bhalla¯taka is a rasa¯yana mentioned by the

Cakradatta (12th century CE) called Amr. tabhalla

¯taka. To prepare this remedy 2.56 kg of ripe

Bhalla¯taka fruit is boiled in four times the volume of

water (10 litres), and reduced to 2.56 litres. The fruits

are then removed, and four times the volume of milk

is added (10 litres), along with one quarter part

ghr. ta (640 g), and is slowly reduced over a low heat

until all the milk has evaporated and only the original

volume of ghr. ta is obtained (i.e. 640 g). An equal

weight of gud.a is then added (640 g) to the preparation,

mixed well, and then set aside for a week. The

Cakradatta states that the dose is according to the

‘ . . . digestive power’, mentioning that this preparation

is the ‘king of all rasa¯yanas’, and may be used

on an ongoing basis to promote strength and

longevity (Sharma 2002). The English name ‘marking

nut’ refers to its usage by dhobis (washermen) to

mark laundary items, special marks that allow them

to keep track of a dizzying number of items and who

they belong to.

Dosage:

● Amr. tabhalla¯taka: 2–5 g, b.i.d.–t.i.d., taken with

four times the volume of milk, as an anupa¯na.

REFERENCES

Arathi G, Sachdanandam P 2003 Therapeutic effect of Semecarpus

anacardium Linn. nut milk extract on carbohydrate metabolizing

and mitochondrial TCA cycle and respiratory chain

enzymes in mammary carcinoma rats. Journal of Pharmacy

and Pharmacology 55(9):1283–1290

Arul B, Kothai R, Christina AJ 2004 Hypoglycemic and antihyperglycemic

effect of Semecarpus anacardium Linn. in normal and

streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Methods and Findings in

Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology 26(10):759–762

Chakraborty S, Roy M, Taraphdar AK, Bhattacharya RK 2004

Cytotoxic effect of root extract of Tiliacora racemosa and oil of

Semecarpus anacardium nut in human tumor cells.

Phytotherapy Research 8(8):595–600

Dash B 1991 Materia medica of Ayurveda. B. Jain Publishers, New

Delhi, p 99

Gil RR, Lin LZ, Cordell GA 1995 Anacardoside from the seeds of

Semecarpus anacardium. Phytochemistry 39(2):405–407

Indap MA, Ambaye RY, Gokhale SV 1983 Anti tumor and pharmacological

effects of the oil from Semecarpus anacardium Linn. f.

Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology 27(2):83–91

Kirtikar KR, Basu BD 1935 Indian medicinal plants, 2nd edn, vols

1–4. Periodical Experts, Delhi, p 667

Matthai TP, Date A 1979 Renal cortical necrosis following exposure

to sap of the marking-nut tree (Semecarpus anacardium).

American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene

28(4):773–774

Nadkarni KM 1954 The Indian materia medica, with Ayurvedic,

Unani and home remedies, revised and enlarged by A.K.

Nadkarni. Popular Prakashan PVP, Bombay, p 1120

Premalatha B 2000 Semecarpus anacardium Linn. nuts–a boon in

alternative medicine. Indian Journal of Experimental Biology

38(12):1177–1182

Premalatha B, Sachdanandam P 1999 Semecarpus anacardium L.

nut extract administration induces the in vivo anti-oxidant

defence system in aflatoxin B1 mediated hepatocellular carcinoma.

Journal of Ethnopharmacology 66(2):131–139

Premalatha B, Sachdanandam P 2000a Stabilization of lysosomal

membrane and cell membrane glycoprotein profile by

Semecarpus anacardium linn. nut milk extract in experimental

hepatocellular carcinoma. Phytotherapy Research

14(5):352–355

Premalatha B, Sachdanandam P 2000b Potency of Semecarpus

anacardium Linn. nut milk extract against aflatoxin B(1)-

induced hepatocarcinogenesis: reflection on microsomal biotransformation

enzymes. Pharmacological Research

42(2):161–166

Premalatha B, Sachdanandam P 2000c Modulating role of

Semecarpus anacardium L. nut milk extract on aflatoxin B(1)

biotransformation. Pharmacological Research 41(1):19–24

Ramprasath VR, Shanthi P, Sachdanandam P 2004 Anti-inflammatory

effect of Semecarpus anacardium Linn. Nut extract in

acute and chronic inflammatory conditions. Biological and

Pharmaceutical Bulletin 27(12):2028–2031.

Ramprasath VR, Shanthi P, Sachdanandam P 2005 Evaluation of

anti-oxidant effect of Semecarpus anacardium Linn. nut

extract on the components of immune system in adjuvant

arthritis. Vascular Pharmacology 42(4):179–186

Saraf MN, Ghooi RB, Patwardhan BK 1989 Studies on the

mechanism of action of Semecarpus anacardium in

rheumatoid arthritis. Journal of Ethnopharmacology

25(2):159–164

176 PART 2: A¯ yurvedic materia medica

Selvam C, Jachak SM 2004 A cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitory

biflavonoid from the seeds of Semecarpus anacardium. Journal

of Ethnopharmacology 95(2–3):209–212

Selvam C, Jachak SM, Bhutani KK 2004 Cyclooxygenase inhibitory

flavonoids from the stem bark of Semecarpus anacardium

Linn. Phytotherapy Research 18(7):582–584

Sharma PV 2002 Cakradatta. Sanskrit text with English translation.

Chaukhamba, Varanasi, p 648

Sharma A, Mathur R, Dixit VP 1995 Hypocholesterolemic activity

of nut shell extract of Semecarpus anacardium (Bhilawa) in

cholesterol fed rabbits. Indian Journal of Experimental Biology

33(6):444–448

Sharma K, Shukla SD, Mehta P, Bhatnagar M 2002 Fungistatic

activity of Semecarpus anacardium Linn. f nut extract. Indian

Journal of Experimental Biology 40(3):314–318

Shukla SD, Jain S, Sharma K, Bhatnagar M 2000 Stress induced

neuron degeneration and protective effects of Semecarpus

anacardium Linn. and Withania somnifera Dunn. in hippocampus

of albino rats: an ultrastructural study. Indian

Journal of Experimental Biology 38(10):1007–1013

Srikanthamurthy KR 1994 Va¯gbhat.

a’s As.t.

a¯ñga Hr. dayam, vol 1.

Krishnadas Academy, Varanasi, p 100

Srikanthamurthy KR 2001 Bha¯vapraka¯´sa of Bha¯vami´sra, vol 1.

Krishnadas Academy, Varanasi, p 196

Sujatha V, Sachdanandam P 2002 Recuperative effect of

Semecarpus anacardium linn. nut milk extract on carbohydrate

metabolizing enzymes in experimental mammary carcinomabearing

rats. Phytotherapy Research 16 Suppl 1:S14–18

Tripathi YB, Singh AV 2001 Effect of Semecarpus anacardium nuts

on lipid peroxidation. Indian Journal of Experimental Biology

39(8):798–801

Tripathi YB, Pandey RS 2004 Semecarpus anacardium L, nuts

inhibit lipopolysaccharide induced NO production in rat

macrophages along with its hypolipidemic property. Indian

Journal of Experimental Biology 42(4):432–436

Tripathi YB, Reddy MM, Pandey RS et al 2004 Anti-inflammatory

properties of BHUx, a polyherbal formulation to prevent atherosclerosis.

Inflammopharmacology 12(2):131–152

Vijayalakshmi T, Muthulakshmi V, Sachdanandam P 1997a Effect

of milk extract of Semecarpus anacardium nuts on glycohydrolases

and lysosomal stability in adjuvant arthritis in rats.

Journal of Ethnopharmacology 58(1):1–8

Vijayalakshmi T, Muthulakshmi V, Sachdanandam P 1997b

Salubrious effect of Semecarpus anacardium against lipid peroxidative

changes in adjuvant arthritis studied in rats.

Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry 175(1–2):65–69

Vijayalakshmi T, Muthulakshmi V, Sachdanandam P 2000

Toxic studies on biochemical parameters carried out in rats

with Serankottai nei, a siddha drug-milk extract of

Semecarpus anacardium nut. Journal of Ethnopharmacology

69(1):9–15

Warrier PK, Nambiar VPK, Ramankutty C (eds) 1996 Indian

medicinal plants: a compendium of 500 species, vol 5. Orient

Longman, Hyderabad, p 98–102

Yoganarasimhan SN 2000 Medicinal plants of India, vol 2: Tamil

Nadu. Self-published, Bangalore, p 493

Bhr.n . gara¯ja, ‘ruler of the hair’ 177

Botany: Bhr.n . gara¯ja is an erect or prostrate annual

branching herb, often rooting at the nodes, the stem

and branches covered with short white strigose trichomes.

The leaves are sessile, 2.5 to 7.5 cm long,

oblong-lanceolate, acute to subacute, the base tapering,

and strigose. The flower heads are 6–8 mm in

diameter, solitary or with two on unequal axillary

stalks. Involucral bracts, about eight to ten in number,

strigose, ray florets ligulate and white, disk flowers

tubular, the corollas often four-tubed. Flowers give

way to compressed achenes. Bhr.n . gara¯ja is distributed

throughout Southeast Asia, from the Punjab

south to Sri Lanka, and eastwards into Burma and

Malaysia (Kirtikar & Basu 1935, Warrier et al 1994).

Part used: Aerial parts, seeds, roots.

Dravygun. a:

● Rasa: kat.u, tikta

● Vipa¯ka: madhura

● Vı¯rya: us.n.

a, ru¯ks.

a

● Karma: dı ¯panapa¯cana, bhedhana, kr . mighna,

jvaraghna, sva¯sahara, ka¯sahara, kus.t.

haghna,

raktaprasa¯dana, ´son. itastha¯pana, mu¯travirecana,

vis.aghna, medhya, rasa¯yana, tridos.aghna

(Srikanthamurthy 2001, Warrier et al 1994).

Constituents: Bhr.n . gara¯ja contains the triterpenoid

saponins eclalbasaponins I–VI, XI and XII, ecliptasaponin

C and D, eclalbatin, the flavonoids apigenin and

luteolin, as well as the coumestans wedelolactone,

demethylwedelolactone, isodemethylwedelolactone

and strychnolactone. Alkaloids include 25--hydroxyverazine

and ecliptalbine, as well as small amounts of

nicotine (0.078%) in the aerial portions. Other constituents

are -formylterthienyl, -terthienyl, 16

related polyacetylenic thiophenes, dithienylacetyline

esters I, II, and III, -sitosterol, stigmasterol, daucosterol,

stigmasterol–3-O-glucoside, nonacosanol, stearic

acid, lacceroic acid, 3,4-dihydroxy benzoic acid,

-amyrin, ursolic acid and oleanolic acid (Abdel-Kader

et al 1998, Han et al 1998, Upadhyay et al 2001,

Yoganarasimhan 2000, Zhang & Chen 1996, Zhang &

Guo 2001, Zhang et al 1997, 2001).

Medical research:

● In vitro: antifungal (Abdel-Kader et al 1998),

antimyotoxic/antivenomous (Melo et al 1994)

● In vivo: hepatoprotective (Saxena et al 1993,

Singh et al 2001), immunoprotective (Liu et al

2000), antimyotoxic/antivenomous (Melo et al

1994), immunomodulant (Jayathirtha & Mishra

2004), analgesic (Sawant et al 2004).

Toxicity: No data found for oral doses.

Indications: Dyspepsia, dysentery, haemorrhoids,

hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, cholelithiasis, jaundice,

cirrhosis, cough, bronchitis, asthma, skin diseases,

ophthalmic disorders, premature greying, alopecia,

odontalgia and odontopathies, oedema, anaemia,

mental disorders, menorrhagia, insect, snake bites.

Contraindications: Pregnancy; severe chills

(Frawley & Lad 1986).

Medicinal uses: Bhr.n . gara¯ja is a bitter-tasting herb

that is in many respects similar to hepatic tonics such

as Dandelion (Taraxacum officinalis root) (Nadkarni

1954), but combines this with a concomitant activity

on the mind and senses, making it somewhat similar

to Man.d.

u¯kaparn.

ı¯ (Frawley & Lad 1986). Although

Bhr.n . gara¯ja is generally listed in the older A¯ yurvedic

nighan.t.

us as being useful to reduce vitiations of both

kapha and va¯ta, a few modern texts indicate that it

can reduce all three dos.as, and some even mention it

Bhr.n . gara¯ja, ‘ruler of the hair’

BOTANICAL NAME: Eclipta alba, E. erecta, E. prostrata, Asteraceae

OTHER NAMES: Ke´sara¯ja (S); Bungrah (H); Kaikeshi (T); Eclipta (E); Han lian cao (C)

178 PART 2: A¯ yurvedic materia medica

as a rasa¯yana to pitta (Dash & Junius 1983, Frawley

& Lad 1986). Traditional uses for E. prostrata include the

treatment of cough, asthma, parasites, skin diseases,

oedema, hepatosplenomegaly, dyspepsia, anorexia,

wounds, ulcers, hypertension, pruritis, odontalgia

(fresh root chewed or rubbed on gums), otalgia (as an

ear oil in karn.

a tarpan.am) and headache (Nadkarni

1954, Warrier et al 1994). The Mandanapala

nighan.t.

u recommends E. alba in the treatment of

obstinate skin diseases and in diseases of the eyes and

head (Dash 1991). Both the Cakradatta and the

´Sa¯ran . gadhara sam. hita¯ recommend a medicated oil

called Bhr.n . gara¯ja taila, prepared with the juice of

Bhr.n . gara¯ja mixed with a paste of Triphala, Nı¯lotpala,

Sa¯riva¯ and powdered iron oxide in the treatment

of dandruff, premature greying, itching and

alopecia (Sharma 2002, Srikanthamurthy 1984).

This taila may also be used as an anti-inflammatory

and vulnerary in cases of psoriasis and eczema, and

finds special application when applied on the head to

improve memory and mental function. A simpler

preparation can be made by decocting one part

Bhr.n . gara¯ja juice or powder in four parts ghr. ta and

16 parts water until all the water has evaporated, after

which the oil is cooled and filtered. This preparation

finds special utility in diseases of the eye, and is used in

netra vasti, a method by which a mixture of wheat or

bean paste is used to form a wall around the eye

socket, and the oil applied over the closed eye and

allowed to sit for 20–30 minutes. Internally, the

Cakradatta mentions a simple formula comprising

Bhr.n . gara¯ja juice, mixed with the powders of

A¯

malakı¯ and Tila (Black sesame seed) in the treatment

of alopecia and premature ageing, and to rejuvenate

the senses (Sharma 2002). In cholelithiasis

Bhrigara¯ja may be used along with appropriate antispasmodics

such as Wild Yam (Dioscorea villosa) and

carminatives such as Ajamoda¯ (Nadkarni 1954). The

expressed juice of both E. alba and E. erecta is given to

infants in doses of 2–10 gtt., taken with honey for respiratory

catarrh (Kirtikar & Basu 1935, Nadkarni

1954). Externally the leaves may be used as a poultice

in glandular swellings, haemorrhoids and wounds to

reduce inflammation and act as a drawing agent

(Nadkarni 1954). Bensky & Gamble (1993) describe

Eclipta prostrata as having the ability to ‘ . . . nourish

and tonify the liver and kidney yin’, specific for

‘ . . . liver and kidney yin deficiency with dizziness,

blurred vision, vertigo and premature graying of the

hair.’ Additionally, it is used within Chinese traditional

medicine to ‘ . . . cool the blood and stop bleeding’ and

for ‘ . . . yin deficiency patterns with bleeding due to

heat in the blood, with such symptoms as vomiting or

coughing up blood, nosebleed, blood in the stool, uterine

bleeding, and blood in the urine’ (Bensky &

Gamble 1993).

Dosage:

● Cu¯rn.

a: dried leaves, 3–5 g b.i.d.–t.i.d.

● Svarasa: 10–15 mL, b.i.d.–t.i.d.

● Pha¯n.t.

a: dried leaves, 1:4, 30–90 mL b.i.d.–t.i.d.

● Tincture: dried leaves, 1:4, 50%; 3–5 mL

b.i.d.–t.i.d.

● Taila: 2–5 gtt. in nasya; ad libitum in

abhyan . ga, ´sirovasti, kavalagraha etc.

REFERENCES

Bensky D, Gamble A 1993 Chinese herbal medicine materia medica

revised edn. Eastland Press, Seattle, p 365

Dash B 1991 Materia medica of Ayurveda. B. Jain Publishers, New

Delhi, p 82

Dash B, Junius M 1983 A handbook of Ayurveda. Concept

Publishing, New Delhi, p 137

Frawley D, Lad V 1986 The yoga of herbs: an Ayurvedic guide to

herbal medicine. Lotus Press, Santa, Fe p 163

Han Y, Xia C, Cheng X et al 1998 Preliminary studies on chemical

constituents and pharmacological action of Eclipta prostrata

L. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi 23(11): 680–682, 703

Jayathirtha MG, Mishra SH 2004 Preliminary immunomodulatory

activities of methanol extracts of Eclipta alba and Centella asiatica.

Phytomedicine 11(4): 361–365

Kirtikar KR, Basu BD 1935 Indian medicinal plants, 2nd edn, vols

1–4. Periodical Experts, Delhi, p 1361, 1362

Liu X, Jiang Y, Zhao Y, Tang H 2000 Effect of ethyl acetate extract of

Eclipta prostrata on mice of normal and immunosupression.

Zhong Yao Cai 23(7): 407–409

Melo PA, Do Nascimento MC, Mors WB, Suarez-Kurtz G 1994

Inhibition of the myotoxic and hemorrhagic activities of crotalid

venoms by Eclipta prostrata (Asteraceae) extracts and

constituents. Toxicon 32(5): 595–603

Nadkarni KM 1954 The Indian materia medica, with Ayurvedic,

Unani and home remedies, revised and enlarged by

A.K. Nadkarni. Popular Prakashan PVP, Bombay, p 469, 472

Sawant M, Isaac JC, Narayanan S 2004 Analgesic studies on total

alkaloids and alcohol extracts of Eclipta alba (Linn.) Hassk.

Phytotherapy Research: PTR 18(2): 111–113

Saxena AK, Singh B, Anand KK 1993 Hepatoprotective effects of

Eclipta alba on subcellular levels in rats. Journal of

Ethnopharmacology 40(3): 155–161

Sharma PV 2002 Cakradatta. Sanskrit text with English translation.

Chaukhamba, Varanasi, p 486, 625

Singh B, Saxena AK, Chandan BK et al 2001 In vivo hepatoprotective

activity of active fraction from ethanolic extract of Eclipta

alba leaves. Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology

45(4): 435–441

Bhr.n.

gara¯ja, ‘ruler of the hair’ 179

Srikanthamurthy KR 1984 ´Sa¯ran . gadhara sam. hita¯: A treatise on

Ayurveda. Chaukhamba Orientalia, Varanasi, p 131

Srikanthamurthy KR 2001 Bha¯vapraka¯´sa of Bha¯vami´sra, vol 1.

Krishnadas Academy, Varanasi, p 266, 267

Upadhyay RK, Pandey MB, Jha RN, Pandey VB 2001 Eclalbatin,

a triterpene saponin from Eclipta alba. Journal of Asian

Natural Products Research 3(3): 213–217

Warrier PK, Nambiar VPK, Ramankutty C (eds) 1994 Indian

medicinal plants: a compendium of 500 species, vol 2. Orient

Longman, Hyderabad, p 350–353

Yoganarasimhan SN 2000 Medicinal plants of India, vol 2: Tamil

Nadu. Self-published, Bangalore, p 207

Zhao YP, Tang HF, Jiang YP et al 2001 Triterpenoid saponins from

Eclipta prostrata L. Yao Xue Xue Bao 36(9): 660–663

Zhang M, Chen Y 1996 Chemical constituents of Eclipta alba (L.)

Hassk. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi 21(8): 480–1, 510

Zhang JS, Guo QM 2001 Studies on the chemical constituents of

Eclipta prostrata (L). Yao Xue Xue Bao 36(1): 34–37

Zhang M, Chen YY, Di XH, Liu M 1997 Isolation and identification

of ecliptasaponin D from Eclipta alba (L.) Hassk. Yao Xue Xue

Bao 32(8): 633–634

180 PART 2: A¯ yurvedic materia medica

Botany: Bhu¯nimba is an erect, branched annual,

30–110 cm in height, with four-angled branches. The

leaves are simple, glabrous and lanceolate, acute at

both ends, up to 8.0 cm long and 2.5 cm broad. The

small white flowers are borne in panicles or terminal

racemes, giving way to linear-oblong capsules that

contain numerous seeds. Bhu¯nimba is found wild

and weedy in the plains throughout India and in the

undergrowth of forests, from the Himalayan foothills

southwards into Sri Lanka. It is also distributed in

other locations in Southeast Asia, and has since naturalised

in some areas of Central America (Kirtikar &

Basu 1935, Warrier et al 1994).

Part used: Whole plant.

Dravygun. a:

● Rasa: kat.u, tikta

● Vipa¯ka: kat.u

● Vı¯rya: ´sita

● Karma: dı ¯pana, bhedana, kr . mighna, jvaraghna,

chedana, raktaprasa¯dana, da¯hapra´samana,

kus.t.

haghna, sandha¯nı ¯ya, lekhana (Warrier et al

1994).

Constituents: Chemical research on Bhu¯nimba

leaves has yielded a variety of bitter tasting diterpene

lactones called the andrographolides, as well as the

non-bitter neoandrographolide, diterpene dimers,

bis-andrographolides A–D, andrographosterol, andrographane,

andrographone, a wax, and two esters containing

hydroxyl groups. Bhu¯nimba roots have

yielded apigenin–7,4′-di-O-methyl ether, andrographolide,

5-hydroxy–7,8,2′,3′-tetramethoxyflavone,

a monohydroxy-trimethylflavone, andrographin,

a dihydroxy-dimethoxyflavone, panicolin, and -sitosterol

(Matsuda et al 1994, Saxena et al 1998,

Yoganarasimhan 2000).

Medical research:

● In vitro: immunomodulant (Panossian et al 2002,

Puri et al 1993, Shen et al 2002), antitumour

(Matsuda et al 1994); hepatoprotective (Visen et al

1993), antithrombotic (Amroyan et al 1999), antiinflammatory

(Batkhuu et al 2002), antispasmodic

(Burgos et al 2001), antimalarial (Najib et al 1999)

● In vivo: antidiabetic, antihyperglycaemic (Zhang &

Tan 2000a,b, Zhang et al 2002), hepatoprotective

(Kapil et al 1993; Rana & Avadhoot 1991; Shukla

et al 1992), antihypertensive (Zhang & Tan 1996,

Zhang et al 1998), negatively chronotropic (Zhang

et al 1998), cardioprotective (Guo et al 1996),

chemopreventative (Shen et al 2000), anti-inflammatory

(Shen et al 2000, Wang et al 1997), antimalarial

(Najib et al 1999)

● Human trials: significant improvement over

placebo in the reduction of symptoms in upper respiratory

tract infection (Gabrielian et al 2002,

Melchior et al 2000); andrographolide isolated

from Andrographis paniculata was demonstrated to

promote an increase in CD4lymphocyte levels in

HIV–1 infected individuals (Calabrese et al 2000);

compared to cotrimoxazole and norfloxacin

Andrographis paniculata reduced the incidence of

urinary tract infection post Extracorporeal Shock

Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) in the treatment of renal

stones less than 3 cm (Muangman et al 1995).

Toxicity: No data found for oral doses. The powdered

extract of Andrographis paniculata leaves was determined

to have no effect on blood progesterone in pregnant

rats (Panossian et al 1999).

Indications: Dyspepsia, bilious colic, hepatic sluggishness,

diarrhoea, dysentery, intestinal parasites,

Bhu¯nimba, ‘ground nimba’

BOTANICAL NAME: Andrographis paniculata, Acanthaceae

OTHER NAMES: Kira¯tatikta¯ (S); Charayetah, Kiryat, Kalamegh, Kalpath (H);

Nilavempu, Shiratkuchi (T); Green Chiretta (E); Chuan xin lian (C)

Bhu¯nimba, ‘ground nimba’ 181

haemorrhoids, fever, upper respiratory tract infection,

cough, bronchitis, pruritis, inflammatory skin

conditions, leprosy, intense thirst, burning sensations,

wounds, ulcers, acute and chronic malaria.

Contraindications: va¯takopa, pregnancy.

Medicinal uses: Bhu¯nimba (‘ground nimba’) derives

its name from Nimba, the leaves of Azadirachta indica,

an intensely bitter remedy that is used primarily to

treat paittika disorders. Thus, Bhu¯nimba finds

application in a similar range of conditions as Nimba.

It is considered synonymous with Kira¯tatikta¯ in its

actions, and is used to treat sannipa¯ta jvara, a type

of feverish condition in which all three dos.as are vitiated.

It is also used for more straightforward paittika

conditions such as daha (burning sensation), jvara

(fever), vrana (ulcers), and tr.s.

n.

a¯ (extreme thirst), as

well as kaphaja conditions such as kasa (cough,

bronchitis), svasa (asthma), and ´sotha (oedema).

Thus Bhu¯nimba combines its profoundly bitter, cooling

and anti-inflammatory properties with the activity

of lekhana, which dries up excessive moisture in the

body. Bhu¯nimba has proved to be an important remedy

in hepatic dysfunction, and given its antiviral

properties, constitutes an exceptionally important

remedy in viral hepatitis, as well as other forms of hepatitis

induced by drugs such as acetaminophen, or

accidental mushroom poisoning. Kirtikar & Basu

(1935) state that the fresh juice can be extracted and

taken alone or with the powders of Ela¯, Tvak bark or

Lavan . ga fruit in the treatment of poor appetite, colic,

flatulence and diarrhoea, and as a treatment for intestinal

parasites. Such formulations that have

dı¯panapa¯cana components guard against va¯ta

aggravation. In the treatment of malabsorption,

abdominal enlargement, jaundice and diarrhoea the

Cakradatta recommends Bhu¯nimba¯dya cu¯rn.

a,

composed of one part each of Bhu¯nimba, Kat.uka,

Trikat.u, Mustaka, and Indrayava, two parts

Citraka and 16 parts Kut.aja (Sharma 2002).

Bhu¯nimba is a popular remedy to strengthen the

body during influenza epidemics or cold and flu season,

to keep the immune system strong. In Chinese

medicine Bhu¯nimba is combined with Isatis tinctoria

and Taraxacum officinalis in the patent formula Chuan

Xin Lian, which is used for the acute onset of colds and

flus, especially with fever, sore throat, and lymphadenopathy.

Nadkarni (1954) reports success with

the use of Bhu¯nimba in treatment of malaria, in which

it was considered ‘superior to quinine’. The potent cooling

and anti-inflammatory properties of Bhu¯nimba

have long made it an important remedy in snake and

insect bites in both A¯ yurvedic and Chinese medicine.

Dosage:

● Cu¯rn.

a: dried leaves, 2–3 g b.i.d.–t.i.d.

● Pha¯n.t.

a: dried leaves, 1:4, 30–60 mL b.i.d.–t.i.d.

● Tincture: dried leaves, 1:4, 50%; 1–3 mL

b.i.d.–t.i.d.

REFERENCES

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effect of andrographolide from Andrographis paniculata on

PAF-induced platelet aggregation. Phytomedicine.

6(1):27–31

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in activated macrophages in vitro and ex vivo by

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Burgos RA, Aguila MJ, Santiesteban ET et al 2001 Andrographis

paniculata (Ness) induces relaxation of uterus by blocking voltage

operated calcium channels and inhibits Ca(2) influx.

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andrographolide in HIV positive patients and normal volunteers.

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placebo-controlled study of Andrographis paniculata fixed

combination Kan Jang in the treatment of acute upper respiratory

tract infections including sinusitis. Phytomedicine

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myocardial ischemia and reperfusion injury. Journal of Tongji

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Association of Thailand 78(6):310–313

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Unani and home remedies, revised and enlarged by

A.K. Nadkarni. Popular Prakashan PVP, Bombay, p 102

182 PART 2: A¯ yurvedic materia medica

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of extracts of Malaysian medicinal plants. Journal of

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27(5–6):358–363

Bibhı¯taka, ‘intimidating’ 183

Botany: Bibhı¯taka is a large deciduous tree with

a buttressed trunk, thick brownish-grey bark with

shallow longitudinal fissures, attaining a height of

between 20 and 30 m. The leaves are crowded around

the ends of the branches, alternately arranged, margins

entire, elliptic to elliptic-obovate, rounded tip or

subacute, midrib prominent, pubescent when young

and becoming glabrous with maturity. The flowers

are pale greenish-yellow with an offensive odour,

borne in axillary spikes longer than the petioles but

shorter than the leaves. The fruits are ovoid drupes,

grey in colour, obscurely five-angled when dry, containing

a kernel within. Bibhı¯taka is found growing

wild throughout the Indian subcontinent, Sri Lanka

and SE Asia, up to 1200 m in elevation, in a wide

variety of ecologies. Bibhı¯taka is also commonly cultivated,

planted along roadsides in large cities

(Kirtikar & Basu 1935, Warrier et al 1996).

Part used: fruit, bark.

Dravygun. a: Fruit

● Rasa: amla, ka´sa¯ya, madhura

● Vipa¯ka: madhura

● Vı¯rya: us.n.

a, ru¯ks.

a, laghu

● Karma: chardinigrahan. a, pa¯cana, bhedhana (unripe

fruit), purı ¯s.asangrahan. iya (mature fruit), kr . mighna,

jvaraghna, chedana, ka¯sahara, sva¯sahara, kus.t.

haghna,

mu¯travirecana, ´sotahara, ´son. itastha¯pana, caks.us.ya,

romasañjanana, vedana¯stha¯pana, a´smaribhedana,

madaka¯rı¯ (kernel), rasa¯yana, tridos.aghna.

● Prabha¯va: Bibhı ¯taka is called ‘intimidating’

because disease shrinks in the face of its power to

heal. Its synonym Aks.a (eye) indicates

Bibhı¯taka’s utility in diseases of the eye (Dash

1991, Nadkarni 1954, Srikanthamurthy 2001,

Warrier et al 1996).

Constituents: Bibhı¯taka contains several triterpenoids,

including belleric acid, -sitosterol, and the

saponin glycosides bellericoside and bellericanin. Other

constituents include polyphenols (gallic acid, ellagic

acid, phyllembin, ethyl galate, and chebulagic acid),

lignans (termilignan, thannilignan, hydroxy-3′,

4′-[methylenedioxy] flavan, anolignan B), and a fixed

yellow oil (Kapoor 1990, Nandy et al 1989, Row

& Murthy 1970, Valsaraj et al 1997).

Medical research:

● In vitro: anti-HIV–1 (el-Mekkawy et al 1995,

Valsaraj et al 1997), antimalarial (Valsaraj et al

1997), antimutagenic (Padam et al 1996), antifungal

(Valsaraj et al 1997), antibacterial (Aqil et al

2005, Rani & Khullar 2004).

● In vivo: hepatoprotective (Anand et al 1997),

hypocholesterolaemic, anti-atherosclerotic (Shaila

et al 1995).

● Human trials: anti-asthmatic, antispasmodic,

expectorant, antitussive (Trivedi et al 1979).

Toxicity: No data found.

Indications: Dyspepsia, flatulence, haemorrhoids,

constipation (unripe fruit), chronic diarrhoea and

dysentery (dry fruit), hepatosplenomegaly, intestinal

parasites, cholelithiasis, fever, sore throat, pharyngitis,

laryngitis, cough, catarrh, bronchitis, asthma,

skin diseases, oedema, ophthalmia, alopecia and premature

greying, headache.

Contraindications: va¯takopa (Frawley & Lad 1986).

Medicinal uses: Bibhı¯taka is a celebrated constituent

of Triphala, along with Harı¯takı¯ and

Bibhı¯taka, ‘intimidating’

BOTANICAL NAME: Terminalia belerica, Combretaceae

OTHER NAMES: Aks.a, ‘eye’ (S); Bahera (H); Tanni, Tanrikkai (T);

Belleric Myrobalan (E)

 

Om Tat Sat

                                                        

(Continued...) 

(My humble salutations to   Sreeman Todd Caldecott, Elsevier’s Health Sciences and others other eminent medical scholars and doctors   for the collection)