- Jamnagar, Gujarat, India
- Experienced and accomplished teacher with over twenty two years of professional experience looking to leverage extens... moreExperienced and accomplished teacher with over twenty two years of professional experience looking to leverage extensive background in developing quality education, research and patient care in Ayurveda. Acknowledged for planning, time management, quick decision-making, persuading and negotiating, leadership skills, problem-solving skills, organizing capability, team working, spoken and written communication, language and computing skills and capable of working under pressure.edit
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Chirabilvadi Yoga is a combination of four drugs Chirabilva, Arjuna, Jyotishmati and Kakanasa in powder form, each of these ingredients has solid base of previous experimental studies for their individual analgesic activity. Bhavana... more
Chirabilvadi Yoga is a combination of four drugs Chirabilva, Arjuna, Jyotishmati and Kakanasa in powder form, each of these ingredients has solid base of previous experimental studies for their individual analgesic activity. Bhavana (trituration) is an important Samskara (process) mentioned in Ayurvedic classics by which drug may be made very potent to produce a positive results. Till date no data available on this combination Bhavita Chirabilvadi Yoga triturated seven times with Chirabilva Patra Swarasa and made dried powder. Present study is to screen the differences in pharmacognostical and pharmaceutical profile of the Chirabilvadi Yoga before and after Bhavana. After Bhavana significant changes were found in the pharmacognostical parameters like deformated rosette crystals and cluster crystal of Arjuna and broken stone cells of Arjuna, which are rarely found before Bhavana of the drug and also evaluate the differences in the pharmaceutical profile before and after Bhavana like ...
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Rasashastra, a branch of Ayurvedic system of medicine, deals with the pharmaceutical procedures of drugs of metallic, mineral and poisonous origin. These drugs are processed by some unique prescribed pharmaceutical techniques including... more
Rasashastra, a branch of Ayurvedic system of medicine, deals with the pharmaceutical procedures of drugs of metallic, mineral and poisonous origin. These drugs are processed by some unique prescribed pharmaceutical techniques including Shodhana (purification process), Jarana (incineration) and Marana (calcination) that renders them fit for internal administration. Some specific groups of drugs of herbal origin viz. Marak gana (group of calcifying herbs), Dugdha varga (group of latex bearing plants), etc. are used for these procedures which primly include medicinal plants.Arka, (Calotropis procera Ait. and Calotropis gigantea L.R.Br.) one of such plant from the semi-poisonous group finds manifold usage in these purification procedures and incineration techniques for many Rasaushadhis. Still, single hand information on the collective information regarding the use of Arka in various processing techniques in Rasashastra is deficient. Hence, a thorough review from available 37 texts rela...
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Research Interests: Biology and Dendrobium
Objective: Ayurveda recommends the use of Danti root after Shodhana (Processing/Purification) where the powder Pippali ( Piperlongum Linn .) fruit, honey and Kusha ( Desmostachya bippinata Stapf . ) leaves are being used. But the additive... more
Objective: Ayurveda recommends the use of Danti root after Shodhana (Processing/Purification) where the powder Pippali ( Piperlongum Linn .) fruit, honey and Kusha ( Desmostachya bippinata Stapf . ) leaves are being used. But the additive effect of all these drugs on Danti root are yet to be explored scientifically. Principal component analysis (PCA), a multivariate data analysis technique targeting to assess the discrimination effect of psychic nut, for evaluating the additive effect, can be used to assess the effect of Shoshana on preliminary physicochemical, phytochemical parameters upon four levels of Danti ( Baliospermum montanum Willd .) root. Methods: Roots of raw Danti, after proper botanical authentication, were subjected for classically recommended Shodhana procedure and four groups of Danti root like raw Danti (RD), Classical processed Danti root (CPDR), Kusha processed Danti root (KPDR), water processed Danti root (WPDR) were obtained at various levels of Danti Shodhana....
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Osteoarthritis is one of the most common degenerative joint disorders. In Ayurveda, the disease Sandhivata resembles with osteoarthritis which is described under Vatavyadhi. Classical texts of Ayurveda, recommends different single herbal... more
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common degenerative joint disorders. In Ayurveda, the disease Sandhivata resembles with osteoarthritis which is described under Vatavyadhi. Classical texts of Ayurveda, recommends different single herbal remedies for the management of Sandhivata, and many of them are now in routine clinical practice. The present review has been made from different pre-clinical and clinical research works carried out on single herbal drugs for the management of Sandhivata at Dravyaguna department of IPGT&RA, Gujarat Ayurved University, Jamnagar. Analysis of results shows that, about 22 research works comprising of 3 clinical and 19 experimental studies have been conducted by Dravyaguna department of IPGT&RA on Sandhivata. Drugs like seeds of Lepidium sativum Linn, whole parts of Leonotis nepetifolia (L.) and roots of Blepharispermum subsessile DC are found effective clinically, in the management of Sandhivata. Drugs like Bridelia scandens Willd, Paederia foetida Linn...
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Background: Fruit have been a part of the human diet since the earliest time. Dadima (Punica granatum L.) of family Lytheraceae, is one among the fruits described under Phala Varga (group of fruits), a classification under Ahara Varga... more
Background: Fruit have been a part of the human diet since the earliest time. Dadima (Punica granatum L.) of family Lytheraceae, is one among the fruits described under Phala Varga (group of fruits), a classification under Ahara Varga (group of dietetic articles) of Charaka Samhita and has been highlighted for its wide range of use as an Ahara (diet), both preventive and curative in different diseased conditions. Aim: To have a comprehensive review on Dadima or its parts as an ingredient in various Ahara Kalpana (dietetic preparations) containing from available classical texts of Ayurveda. Results: Dadima as an ingredient being included in 634 formulations. Among them, 102 are uses as Ahara Kalpana indicated for its internal uses and 1 for external use. There are 39 formulations where Dadima is used as Bhavana Dravya during its preparation. Dadima is also recommended as an anupana for 44 formulations being indicated for various diseases. Conclusion: Dadima as a fruit, both in prev...
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Objective: Ayurveda recommends the use of Danti root after Shodhana (Processing/Purification) where the powder Pippali (Piperlongum Linn.) fruit, honey and Kusha (Desmostachya bippinata Stapf.) leaves are being used. But the additive... more
Objective: Ayurveda recommends the use of Danti root after Shodhana (Processing/Purification) where the powder Pippali (Piperlongum Linn.) fruit, honey and Kusha (Desmostachya bippinata Stapf.) leaves are being used. But the additive effect of all these drugs on Danti root are yet to be explored scientifically. Principal component analysis (PCA), a multivariate data analysis technique targeting to assess the discrimination effect of psychic nut, for evaluating the additive effect, can be used to assess the effect of Shodhana on preliminary physicochemical, phytochemical parameters upon four levels of Danti (Baliospermum montanum Willd.) root.Methods: Roots of raw Danti, after proper botanical authentication, were subjected for classically recommended Shodhana procedure and four groups of Danti root like raw Danti (RD), Classical processed Danti root (CPDR), Kusha processed Danti root (KPDR), water processed Danti root (WPDR) were obtained at various levels of Danti Shodhana. Methano...
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Objective: Seeds of Gunja (Abrus precatorius Linn.) are being used by the Ayurvedic physicians for the management of different diseases only after proper shodhana (processing) with some specific media like godugdha (cow's milk), kanji... more
Objective: Seeds of Gunja (Abrus precatorius Linn.) are being used by the Ayurvedic physicians for the management of different diseases only after proper shodhana (processing) with some specific media like godugdha (cow's milk), kanji (sour gruel) and nimbu swarasa (lemon juice). The impact of shodhana on gunja seed through microscopical and analytical profile have not been studied and reported scientifically yet. Hence, the present study has been designed to evaluate the effect of shodhana on phyto-pharmacognostical characters of Gunja seeds.Methods: Red variety of Gunja seeds were processed with cow's milk for six hours whereas sour gruel, lemon juice and water (as control) for three hours following the standard procedures for swedana (boiling), recommended by the classical text of Ayurveda. The obtained seeds were investigated for their powder microscopical characters and phytochemical characters like preliminary phytochemical screening (qualitative test) and quantitative...
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Objective: To establish a noticeable and a justifiable identification system to assess the impact of shodhana (processing) on various levels of Baliospermum montanum (Danti) root samples obtained through shodhana (processing technique) in... more
Objective: To establish a noticeable and a justifiable identification system to assess the impact of shodhana (processing) on various levels of Baliospermum montanum (Danti) root samples obtained through shodhana (processing technique) in quality agreement based on near-infrared-spectroscopy.Methods: Authenticated raw Danti (R. D) root and various Danti root samples obtained after shodhana (processing) such as water processed Danti root (WPDR), Kusha processed Danti root (KPDR) and classical processed Danti root (CPDR), were dried, pulverized and shifted through eighty meshes. The samples were subjected to NIR spectral detection from 750 to 2500 nm at the interval of 1 nm. The multivariate analysis, principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) analyzed with the help of Unscrambler and Matlab software.Results: Direct spectral analysis indicated the existence of significant numerical and graphical differences between Danti root samples containing differen...
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Ayurveda, one of the oldest life sciences, had been evolved in India, and stands still on a rational and logical foundation with own fundamental principles which guides the society towards prevention of diseases, to maintain the health... more
Ayurveda, one of the oldest life sciences, had been evolved in India, and stands still on a rational and logical foundation with own fundamental principles which guides the society towards prevention of diseases, to maintain the health through prevention and cure of ailments. The genesis and development of Ayurveda stream, as a health care system, is well supported by a robust literature being fortified with numerous experience-based treatment protocols. The available literature of Ayurveda, based on time period, can grossly be divided into three categories i.e., Veda, Samhita and Samgraha period.
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The cold ethanol extract of air-dried and powdered roots of Combretum decandrum afforded two bioactive lupine triterpenes, betulinic acid and lupeol using column chromatography technique. Structure of these isolated phytochemicals have... more
The cold ethanol extract of air-dried and powdered roots of Combretum decandrum afforded two bioactive lupine triterpenes, betulinic acid and lupeol using column chromatography technique. Structure of these isolated phytochemicals have been elucidated on the basis of chemical as well as detailed spectral studies such as UV, IR, 1 HNMR, 13 C NMR, 2D NMR and EIMS. As per literature survey this is the first report of phytochemical studies on C. decandrum.
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Ab s t r Ac t Background: Many drugs are available for the management of eczema but a quick and effective management is still the need of the time. Root bark of Karavira (Nerium oleander L.), a semi-poisonous drug of Ayurveda has been... more
Ab s t r Ac t Background: Many drugs are available for the management of eczema but a quick and effective management is still the need of the time. Root bark of Karavira (Nerium oleander L.), a semi-poisonous drug of Ayurveda has been reported for its efficacy in skin disorder. Ayurveda considers Vicharchika (eczema) disease condition, under Kshudrakustha (group of minor skin diseases). Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of Rakta Karavira Taila in the treatment of Vicharchika (eczema) through an open-label clinical trial. Materials and methods: An open-label clinical trial was performed to assess the effect of Rakta Karavira Taila in Vicharchika. The trial drug was prepared by mixing root bark of red variety of Nerium oleander L. and Sarshapa Taila (mustard oil) following the recommended method of oil preparation in Ayurvedic Formulary of India (AFI). Total 30 patients, diagnosed as Vicharchika, were treated by applying required amount of Rakta Karavira Taila externally twice a day for 28 consecutive days. Response to the treatment in the recruited patients was recorded on a weekly basis and therapeutic effect was evaluated through symptomatic relief. Results: Rakta Karavira Taila, is an oil preparation, which is effective against all the major clinical symptoms of Vicharchika like Kandu (itching), Pidika (papular eruptions), Vaivarnyata (discoloration), Daha (burning sensation), Vedana (pain), and Rukshata (dryness). The study yields statistically significant results in symptoms like Kandu (itching) (p < 0.001), Vaivarnyata (discoloration) (p < 0.001), and Rukshata (dryness) (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Rakta Karavira Taila has proven to be effective in reducing the symptoms of Vicharchika, when applied for a period of 28 days.
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Recent ethnobotanical survey studies highlight about various economic and pharmacological uses of plant Leea macrophylla (LM) Roxb. Ex Hornem. (family: Vitaceae). The aim of the article is bird’s eye view of the plant regarding all... more
Recent ethnobotanical survey studies highlight about various economic and pharmacological uses of plant Leea macrophylla (LM) Roxb. Ex Hornem. (family: Vitaceae). The aim of the article is bird’s eye view of the plant regarding all reported ethnomedicinal information and research works on LM. Information of ethnomedicinal uses of the plant, until December 2018, from available 13 books on ethnobotany, 8 books related to medicinal plants, and 85 research articles on ethnomedicinal claims and pharmacological studies, uses as an ethnic food and economical uses. Information about its use by different tribes across India, parts used, therapeutic indications comprising external (E) and internal (I) usage of drug, recent pharmacological studies, and uses as ethnic food and economical uses are presented in a systematic manner. Root, leaves, and fruits of LM are used in the treatment of various ailments through 26 E applications and 27 I administrations. Root has maximum applications in 31, l...
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Drugs of herbal origin consist a major part in all traditional systems of medicine. Recently, focus on plant research is increased, due to the great potential of medicinal plants used in various traditional systems. Wounds are one of the... more
Drugs of herbal origin consist a major part in all traditional systems of medicine. Recently, focus on plant research is increased, due to the great potential of medicinal plants used in various traditional systems. Wounds are one of the major causes of physical disabilities. Traditional medicinal plants are remarkable for their significant potential to treat wounds in different tribal areas, all over the world. Many ethnomedicinal survey reports, research articles, and books have been published highlighting the use of medicinal plant for the management of wound. Recent research reveals that some of these plants are renowed either clinically or experimentally for their wound healing activities. Many plants are yet to be studied for their traditional claims. Single hand information regarding these plants with their specific parts used is still lacking. Present study reports the wound healing activity of 221 root drugs, being reported in 14 books and 70 research articles, related to e...
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In Ayurveda, Eranda ( Ricinus communis Linn; Euphorbiaceae) root is highlighted for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic action and used as one of the ingredient in many compound formulations. Ricinus communis L. is available both in wild... more
In Ayurveda, Eranda ( Ricinus communis Linn; Euphorbiaceae) root is highlighted for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic action and used as one of the ingredient in many compound formulations. Ricinus communis L. is available both in wild as well as cultivated state. Due to its high demand and less supply of wild variety root, its cultivated variety is fulfilling the market demand. Hence, the present study is carried to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of both the varieties of Eranda root. Decoction of both wild and cultivated varieties of Eranda root (10.8 ml/kg) were taken as test drugs, Phenyl butazone (100 mg/kg) as reference standard and experiment was carried out on Wistar strain albino rats following carrageenan induced paw edema model. Student’s unpaired t test was applied for analyzing the obtained data, after one, three and five hours. Wild variety root decoction, at studied dose (10.8 ml/kg) level, showed marked decrease in paw edema, in comparison to normal contr...
Research Interests: Medicine and Phamacology
Lāngali ( Gloriosa superba L.) is a drug in upavisa varga (semi-poisonous drug) which has to undergo ś odhana procedure before its therapeutic use. The present study was planned to assess the role of śodhana of Lāngali tuber by gomūtra on... more
Lāngali ( Gloriosa superba L.) is a drug in upavisa varga (semi-poisonous drug) which has to undergo ś odhana procedure before its therapeutic use. The present study was planned to assess the role of śodhana of Lāngali tuber by gomūtra on its safety aspects in experimental animals, which is recommended by Ayurvedic Formulary of India. The therapeutic dose of Lāngali as per API is 125 to 250 mg/day. For the present study the higher dose i.e. 250 mg was selected. Wistar strain albino rats were used for the study. The animals were divided into seven groups and each group contained 12 animals (six male and six female). The study was done for 90 days followed by 30 days (total 120 days) recovery study. Various haematological, biochemical parameters and histopathology of the organs were studied. The study showed that śodhana process attenuates the toxicity producing potential of raw L ā ngali. When processed with gomūtra , l ā ngali root produces good spermatogenic effect while raw/ aśodh...
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Mallotus philippensis (Lam.) Muell. Arg., family Euphorbiaceae, one of the medicinal plants highlighted for its uses in almost all classical texts of Ayurveda, is also traditionally used by local traditional healers for various disease... more
Mallotus philippensis (Lam.) Muell. Arg., family Euphorbiaceae, one of the medicinal plants highlighted for its uses in almost all classical texts of Ayurveda, is also traditionally used by local traditional healers for various disease conditions. The present review aims to collect all available ethnomedicinal information and research updates on M. philippensis. Material and methods: Reported ethnomedicinal uses of M. philippensis from available 20 books related to medicinal plants and 77 research articles on ethnomedicine, published till February 2020, were reviewed. Name and place of the reporting tribe, vernacular names, parts used along with their therapeutic indications, with specific method of administration, if any, through either external (E) or internal (I), as well as economic use were also noted. Results and discussion: Mallotus philippensis has been reported for its therapeutic uses in 18 states of India and other 3 countries. Its fruit, seed, plant part unspecified, lea...
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Opuntia elatior , known as Nagaphani or Hathalo-thore belongs to the family Cactaceae. It is one of the Opuntia species used as medicine for various ailments due to its beneficial health-promoting properties. Fruits of Opuntia elatior... more
Opuntia elatior , known as Nagaphani or Hathalo-thore belongs to the family Cactaceae. It is one of the Opuntia species used as medicine for various ailments due to its beneficial health-promoting properties. Fruits of Opuntia elatior have been advocated in anaemia, asthma, cough, inflammation, and gonorrhoea in Gujarat. The present study was planned to evaluate the hematinic effect of Opuntia elatior Mill. fruit on mercuric chloride (HgCl 2 ) induced anaemia in rats. Opuntia elatior fruit Swarasa was administered to Charle’s foster albino rats for 30 consecutive days at the doses of 1.8 mL/kg and 3.6 mL/kg. The effects of both drugs were assessed on ponderal changes, haematological, serum biochemical, and histopathology of various organs. The fruit Swarasa showed significant increase in the haemoglobin content, serum ferritin level and serum TIBC level. The test drug at both dose levels produced adverse changes of mild intensity in liver, kidney and heart and reverted the disturban...
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Coleus aromaticus Benth., (Fam. Lamiaceae), syn. Coleus amboinicus Lour. Spreng or Plectranthus ambonicus Lour, is commonly known as Indian/ country borage and ‘Pathorchur’ in Hindi and Bengali. It is recorded in the Indian system of... more
Coleus aromaticus Benth., (Fam. Lamiaceae), syn. Coleus amboinicus Lour. Spreng or Plectranthus ambonicus Lour, is commonly known as Indian/ country borage and ‘Pathorchur’ in Hindi and Bengali. It is recorded in the Indian system of medicine as one of the sources of Pashanabheda. It is large succulent aromatic perennial herb, shrubby below, hispidly villous or tomentose. It is found throughout India, Ceylon and Moluccas. The leaves of the plant are bitter, acrid and were being widely used traditionally for various purposes. The plant has been worked out very well and isolated several chemical constituents and had shown various biological properties. This review is an effort to compile all the information reported on its macroscopic, microscopic features, nutritional content, phytochemistry, pharmacology and therapeutic uses.
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It is a matter of serious concern that the number of case reports pointing at a possible association between the clinical toxicity and the use of Ayurveda formulations is increasing significantly over the years in scientific medical... more
It is a matter of serious concern that the number of case reports pointing at a possible association between the clinical toxicity and the use of Ayurveda formulations is increasing significantly over the years in scientific medical literature. Though most of these cases are connected with the presence of heavy metals such as lead, mercury and arsenic in these formulations, there are also reports suggesting toxicity due to the presence of toxic chemicals of herbal origin. In the year 2008, the Government of India took an initiative of establishing the National Pharmacovigilance Programme for Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani drugs in a structured way. However, due to lack of sustained support, this program has now become defunct. This issue is of vital importance and needs to be addressed effectively on a priority basis. In this communication, we propose the following crucial policy interventions to be introduced at different levels: a. Amendments to Drug and Cosmetic Act, b. Issuing consu...
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Cordia macleodii Hook (Boraginaceae), a folklore medicinal plant, commonly known as “Shikari” in local language and found in Odisha and Madhya Pradesh. Tribal people and traditional medical practitioners of Odisha used this plant in many... more
Cordia macleodii Hook (Boraginaceae), a folklore medicinal plant, commonly known as “Shikari” in local language and found in Odisha and Madhya Pradesh. Tribal people and traditional medical practitioners of Odisha used this plant in many diseased conditions and the leaf in particular in wound healing. The present study deals with determination of stomatal index of the leaves and molecular characterization of the plant by Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. Result shows that it’s leaves having anisocytic and anomocytic type stomata, and the unique bands obtained in Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) amplification clearly discriminated having, many bright and light bands indicating the genuinity of the plant.
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The leaves of Cordia macleodii Hook. (Boraginaceae) is reported as a wound healing drug, by the tribal people of Odisha and Madhya Pradesh. An attempt has been made to evaluate the wound healing properties of the ghrita (cow’s ghee) based... more
The leaves of Cordia macleodii Hook. (Boraginaceae) is reported as a wound healing drug, by the tribal people of Odisha and Madhya Pradesh. An attempt has been made to evaluate the wound healing properties of the ghrita (cow’s ghee) based formulation of its leaf scientifically, through an exploratory, open and controlled clinical study. 20 patients with classical signs and symptoms of shuddha vrana (fresh wound) were selected irrespective of their age, sex and religion. They were randomly allotted into two groups, one group was managed with Cordia macleodii ghrita and control group was treated with Povidone Iodine as local application, for duration of 21 days. The effect of drug on sign and symptoms was assessed at 7th, 14th and 21st days. Significant changes was observed in discharge, tenderness, wound margin and wound size in Cordia macleodii ghrita treated group while in Povidone Iodine treated group showed highly significant result.
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Background: Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), commonly known as an Amrita in the classical texts of Ayurveda, belongs to the family Menispermaceae and is one of the most frequently used drugs in Ayurvedic pharmacopoeias. In the recent past,... more
Background: Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), commonly known as an Amrita in the classical texts of Ayurveda, belongs to the family Menispermaceae and is one of the most frequently used drugs in Ayurvedic pharmacopoeias. In the recent past, this drug has attracted the attention of clinicians for its immunomodulatory activities. Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia of India recommends both external and internal applications of Guduchi for the management of different disease conditions. Aim: To prepare a comprehensive data of internal administration of Guduchi recorded in various Ayurvedic texts. Materials and methods: This review portrays the wide usage of Guduchi through internal administration, which comprises 56 various Samhita (treatise), Chikitsa grantha (compendia of Ayurveda), and Rasagrantha (compendia related to Rasashastra). Results: It is observed that about 1,526 formulations, having Guduchi as an ingredient, are used to combat almost 95 varied diseases. Among these diseased conditions, maximum are indicated for the management of Jwara (fever), followed by Vatarakta (gout, 102), Kushtha (integumentary diseases, 82), and Vatavyadhi (neuromuscular anomalies, 73). Conclusion: Present data may encourage researchers in pharmaceutical and clinical research to think over the use of easily available, simply propagated, and noncontroversial drug used to cure more than 95 disease conditions through internal administration, for the benefit of the society.
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Background: Ficus semicordata Buch.-Ham. ex Sm. (Moraceae) has been attributed with copious therapeutic claims in Indian traditional medical systems, especially for its ethnomedicinal and economical uses. Aims: The present study was... more
Background: Ficus semicordata Buch.-Ham. ex Sm. (Moraceae) has been attributed with copious therapeutic claims in Indian traditional medical systems, especially for its ethnomedicinal and economical uses. Aims: The present study was carried out to evaluate the heavy metal, pesticide, aflatoxin content, antioxidant and nutritional value of leaves and fruits of F. semicordata. Materials and Methods: Heavy metal content; pesticide residues; aflatoxin content; antioxidant potential; and different nutritional parameters such as total carbohydrate, true protein, protein, total fat, energy, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, iron, zinc, manganese, phosphorus, calcium of the leaves, and fruits were evaluated following the standard guidelines. Results: Fruit powder shows the presence of 72.94 ppm Pb while < 0.01 ppm Pb in leaf powder whereas Cd, Hg, and as were < 0.01 ppm in both leaf and fruit powders. Pesticide residue and aflatoxin cotent in both leaves and fruit were below the limit of quantification. Antioxidant activities of both leaves and fruits increased with increasing concentrations in the dose-dependent manner by Diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, ferric-reducing antioxidant power assay and phosphomolybdenum assay. Fruits are found more nutritious with highest content of true protein, total fat, energy, Vitamin A, iron, zinc and phosphorus whereas the leaves are having highest content of total carbohydrate, protein, Vitamin C, manganese and calcium. Conclusion: The results of this study shows that in the leaves and fruits of F. semicordata mercury, cadmium, arsenic, pesticides residues and aflatoxin content are below the limit of quantification and possess mild antioxidant properties. Fruits are found more nutritious with the highest content of true protein, total fat, energy, Vitamin A, iron, zinc and phosphorus. Being wild, it is easily accessible and cheaper source of nutrition.
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Aim: Present review aims to collect all available ethno medicinal information and research updates on Pothos scandens, a popular drug among the local healers for its multipurpose traditional therapeutic claims. Materials and Methods:... more
Aim: Present review aims to collect all available ethno medicinal information and research updates on Pothos scandens, a popular drug among the local healers for its multipurpose traditional therapeutic claims. Materials and Methods: Reported ethno medicinal uses of Pothos scandens from available books related to medicinal plants and research articles on ethno medicine, published till January 2020, were reviewed. Name of the reporting tribe using the plant and their place of reporting, vernacular names, parts used along with its therapeutic indications, with specific method of administration, if any, through either external or internal usages were noted. Results: P. scandens is reported for its presence in 13 countries across the globe and in 13 states of India. The plant as a whole or its stem, root and leaf are used in 31 different disease conditions, either through internal administration or external applications. Among these, maximum are indicated in the treatment of asthma, sm...
Kupeelu (Strychnos nux-vomica Linn.), a drug mentioned under Upavisha (semi-poisonous) group of Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia, is being practiced widely in Ayurvedic therapeutics since long. Certain compound formulations containing Kupeelu are... more
Kupeelu (Strychnos nux-vomica Linn.), a drug mentioned under Upavisha (semi-poisonous) group of Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia, is being practiced widely in Ayurvedic therapeutics since long. Certain compound formulations containing Kupeelu are also well practiced in Homeopathy and Unani System of Medicine. Ayurveda strictly recommend the use of this drug in therapeutics only after proper Shodhana (purificatury procedure) through some specific media like Gomutra, Godugdha, Goghrita, Kanji etc. Though various Shodhana procedures are recommended in Ayurvedic classics for purification of Kupeelu seeds, but updated scientific researches regarding the Shodhana methods are lacking. Keeping this fact in mind, an attempt hasbeen made in the present study to evaluate the impact of Shodhana on Kupeelu seeds while performing the specific Shodhana method, recommended by the Ayurvedic Formulary of India(A.F.I.). This study reveals that the toxic alkaloids Strychnine & Brucine, present in Kupeelu seed,w...
CONTEXT: Jīvantī is one among the best vegetable drugs to be consumed according to classical texts of āyurveda. As a single drug it is used as jīvanīya (longevity promoter), snehopaga (oleating), śvāsahara (anti-asthmatic), vayasthāpana... more
CONTEXT: Jīvantī is one among the best vegetable drugs to be consumed according to classical texts of āyurveda. As a single drug it is used as jīvanīya (longevity promoter), snehopaga (oleating), śvāsahara (anti-asthmatic), vayasthāpana (anti-aging), rasāyana (rejuvenator) and cakṣuṣya (eye tonic). It is also included as an ingredient of many polyherbal formulations. AIMS: The present study was carried out to evaluate the comparative nutritional values of aerial parts of Leptadenia reticulata (Retz.), Holostemma ada-kodien Schult., Wattakaka volubilis (Linn. f.) Stapf., and Dendrobium macraei Lindl., four claimed botanical source plants of jīvanti. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Different nutritional parameters like carbohydrate, fat, protein energy value, calcium, iron, zinc, manganese, phosphorus, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C were evaluated following the standard guidelines. RESULTS: Among the four plants, L. reticulata is found more nutritious by having the highest content of protein, fat, e...
Background: Latex of Euphorbia caducifolia Haines. (Euphorbiaceae), botanical source of Rakta Snuhi, a caustic irritant, is being used in different Ayurvedic therapeutics, after proper processing (Shodhana) in some specific media.... more
Background: Latex of Euphorbia caducifolia Haines. (Euphorbiaceae), botanical source of Rakta Snuhi, a caustic irritant, is being used in different Ayurvedic therapeutics, after proper processing (Shodhana) in some specific media. Shodhana of Snuhi latex with Chincha-Patra Swarasa (juice of tamarind leaves) using Raudra Yantra (instrument/pot kept under sunlight for drying) has been recommended in Ayurveda texts. Snuhi is one of the Upavisha (sub toxic group of herbal drugs) and a well-known plant in the Indian system of medicine. It is used in pharmaceutical procedures like preparation and processing of drugs. Aim: The aim of the study was to carry out Shodhana of E. caducifolia latex with Chincha-Patra Swarasa. Material and methods: Fresh latex of Snuhi was collected from the Sapada area of Jamnagar, Gujarat and fresh leaves of Tamarindus indica L. were collected from the herbal garden of the university and Swarasa was extracted by traditional expression technique. Shodhana of Snuhi Kshira was done under sunlight dried and shade dried method by mixing it with leaf juice of Tamarindus indica L. in a glass bowl in different ratio i.e. Kshira: leaf juice was 8:4, 8:2, 8:1 respectively. Results: This study reveals certain changes in physico-chemical parameters (pH) and organoleptic characters of processed E. caducifolia latex by Tamarind leaf juice both in shade-dried and sunlight-dried samples. Under HPTLC, Shodhana of E. caducifolia latex with Tamarind leaf juice alters the number of spots both sunlight-dried and shade-dried samples. In sun-dried sample, the number of spots increased when the concentration of Tamarind leaf juice is decreased in HPTLC study. The study reveals that in case of shade-dried Shodhita (processed) Snuhi latex sample, the concentration of lupeol increases with the increasing quantity of Tamarind leaf juice. Conclusion: Shodhana with Tamarind leaf juice changes both qualitative and quantitative property of Snuhi latex.
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Background: In Ayurveda, Oja , being one of the most distinctive concepts is a factor of prime importance related to vitality. Ayurveda depicts the definition, types (Para, Apara); site (Hridaya- Heart, sarvashariravyapi - presence in... more
Background: In Ayurveda, Oja , being one of the most distinctive concepts is a factor of prime importance related to vitality. Ayurveda depicts the definition, types (Para, Apara); site (Hridaya- Heart, sarvashariravyapi - presence in cellular level), quantity (vindu-in drops), function (bala-vitality) and its derangement etiology etc. of Oja . Various researchers based on their own ideas have given its modern parlance with immunity and stem cell etc. Objective: To decipher the fundamental concept of Oja vis-ΰ-vis endoplasmic reticular function. Material and Methods: A critical analysis of information on Oja from available Ayurvedic literatureand endoplasmic reticular function form modern Physiology texts. Result: 'Endoplasmic reticulum(ER)' is a multifunctional membranous organelle forming a network in the whole body and is responsible for lipid biosynthesis, calcium storage and protein folding and processing. Etiological factors of Ojadushti (dysfunction) are (Abhighata-may be environmental stress), (shoka-mental stress), (shrama-physical stress, etc) which share similarity with stressors that disrupt function of ER ultimately leading to ER stress causing lifestyle disorders. Achieving cellular homeostasis is now being emphasized in the management of various diseases, in conventional medicine. The cellular homeostasis is dependent largely onproper folding of proteins where as in proper folding results into accumulation of misfolded proteins ultimately enhancing cellular death. Scientific reports on vayathapanaherbs like Amalaki, Punarnava, Guduchi etc. to alleviate ER stress can be give an evidence to correlate the ER with Oja . Conclusion: The present hypothesis gives an insight to decipher a novel concept of Oja and its relation with Endoplasmic reticulum.
Background: Many drugs are available for the management of eczema but a quick and effective management is still the need of the time. Root bark of Karavira (Nerium oleander L.), a semi-poisonous drug of Ayurveda has been reported for its... more
Background: Many drugs are available for the management of eczema but a quick and effective management is still the need of the time. Root bark of Karavira (Nerium oleander L.), a semi-poisonous drug of Ayurveda has been reported for its efficacy in skin disorder. Ayurveda considers Vicharchika (eczema) disease condition, under Kshudrakustha (group of minor skin diseases). Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of Rakta Karavira Taila in the treatment of Vicharchika (eczema) through an open-label clinical trial. Materials and methods: An open-label clinical trial was performed to assess the effect of Rakta Karavira Taila in Vicharchika. The trial drug was prepared by mixing root bark of red variety of Nerium oleander L. and Sarshapa Taila (mustard oil) following the recommended method of oil preparation in Ayurvedic Formulary of India (AFI). Total 30 patients, diagnosed as Vicharchika, were treated by applying required amount of Rakta Karavira Taila externally twice a day for 28 consecutive days. Response to the treatment in the recruited patients was recorded on a weekly basis and therapeutic effect was evaluated through symptomatic relief. Results: Rakta Karavira Taila, is an oil preparation, which is effective against all the major clinical symptoms of Vicharchika like Kandu (itching), Pidika (papular eruptions), Vaivarnyata (discoloration), Daha (burning sensation), Vedana (pain), and Rukshata (dryness). The study yields statistically significant results in symptoms like Kandu (itching) (p < 0.001), Vaivarnyata (discoloration) (p < 0.001), and Rukshata (dryness) (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Rakta Karavira Taila has proven to be effective in reducing the symptoms of Vicharchika, when applied for a period of 28 days.
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Lāngali (Gloriosa superba L.) is a drug in upaviṣa varga (semi-poisonous drug) which has to undergo śodhana procedure before its therapeutic use. The present study was planned to assess the role of śodhana of Lāngali tuber by gomūtra on... more
Lāngali (Gloriosa superba L.) is a drug in upaviṣa varga (semi-poisonous drug) which has to undergo śodhana procedure before its therapeutic use. The present study was planned to assess the role of śodhana of Lāngali tuber by gomūtra on its safety aspects in experimental animals, which is recommended by Ayurvedic Formulary of India. The therapeutic dose of Lāngali as per API is 125 to 250 mg/day. For the present study the higher dose i.e. 250 mg was selected. Wistar strain albino rats were used for the study. The animals were divided into seven groups and each group contained 12 animals (six male and six female). The study was done for 90 days followed by 30 days (total 120 days) recovery study. Various haematological, biochemical parameters and histopathology of the organs were studied. The study showed that śodhana process attenuates the toxicity producing potential of raw Lāngali. When processed with gomūtra, lāngali root produces good spermatogenic effect while raw/ aśodhita lāngali hampers spermatogenesis at 10 times dose level. So it can be concluded that both raw and śodhita Langali found relatively safe up to 5 times therapeutic dose level.
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Mallotus philippensis (Lam.) Muell. Arg., family Euphorbiaceae, one of the medicinal plants highlighted for its uses in almost all classical texts of Ayurveda, is also traditionally used by local traditional healers for various disease... more
Mallotus philippensis (Lam.) Muell. Arg., family Euphorbiaceae, one of the medicinal plants highlighted for its uses in almost all classical texts of Ayurveda, is also traditionally used by local traditional healers for various disease conditions. The present review aims to collect all available ethnomedicinal information and research updates on M. philippensis. Material and methods: Reported ethnomedicinal uses of M. philippensis from available 20 books related to medicinal plants and 77 research articles on ethnomedicine, published till February 2020, were reviewed. Name and place of the reporting tribe, vernacular names, parts used along with their therapeutic indications, with specific method of administration, if any, through either external (E) or internal (I), as well as economic use were also noted. Results and discussion: Mallotus philippensis has been reported for its therapeutic uses in 18 states of India and other 3 countries. Its fruit, seed, plant part unspecified, leaf, stem bark root, flower, branches, whole plant, and young shoot are used in 67 different disease conditions, either through internal administration or external applications. Among these, maximum are indicated in the treatment of worms, skin disease, wounds, burn, etc. Its fruits have maximum applications in 48 disease conditions, followed by seed in 27, plant part unspecified in 27, leaf in 20, stem bark in 17, root in 11, flower in 9, branches in 1, whole plant in 1 and young shoot in 1 disease conditions. Its different parts are also used in economically as a dye, pesticide, religious rites, etc. Pharmacological studies report its anthelmintic, antibacterial, anticancer, purgative, and wound healing activities. Conclusion: Mallotus philippensis is having multifaceted ethnomedicinal uses. Much of the information are not noted in the classical texts of Ayurveda. Its use in worms, skin disease, constipation, rheumatism and wounds should be evaluated through pharmacological and clinical studies to establish the ethnic claims.
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Background: Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), commonly known as an Amrita in the classical texts of Ayurveda, belongs to the family Menispermaceae and is one of the most frequently used drugs in Ayurvedic pharmacopoeias. In the recent past,... more
Background: Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), commonly known as an Amrita in the classical texts of Ayurveda, belongs to the family Menispermaceae and is one of the most frequently used drugs in Ayurvedic pharmacopoeias. In the recent past, this drug has attracted the attention of clinicians for its immunomodulatory activities. Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia of India recommends both external and internal applications of Guduchi for the management of different disease conditions. Aim: To prepare a comprehensive data of internal administration of Guduchi recorded in various Ayurvedic texts. Materials and methods: This review portrays the wide usage of Guduchi through internal administration, which comprises 56 various Samhita (treatise), Chikitsa grantha (compendia of Ayurveda), and Rasagrantha (compendia related to Rasashastra). Results: It is observed that about 1,526 formulations, having Guduchi as an ingredient, are used to combat almost 95 varied diseases. Among these diseased conditions, maximum are indicated for the management of Jwara (fever), followed by Vatarakta (gout, 102), Kushtha (integumentary diseases, 82), and Vatavyadhi (neuromuscular anomalies, 73). Conclusion: Present data may encourage researchers in pharmaceutical and clinical research to think over the use of easily available, simply propagated, and noncontroversial drug used to cure more than 95 disease conditions through internal administration, for the benefit of the society.