Significance of Herb
The term "Herb" is defined in various contexts, including traditional texts like Purana and Dharmashastra, and practices such as Ayurveda. In Purana, it refers to plants used for medicinal purposes and those combined with barley flour for body treatments. Dharmashastra associates herbs with mantras for plant strength, while Rasashastra focuses on their use for treating worm ailments. In a scientific context, herbs are recognized for their roles in Ayurveda, particularly regarding urinary health and specific plants like C. neilgherrensis.
Synonyms: Plant, Spice, Green, Vegetation, Flora
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Herb'
In Hinduism, "Herb" signifies plants addressed in rituals, employed in medicinal remedies, and associated with healing traditions. It includes aushadha plants, used for ailments, and others mixed for body treatments, underscoring their sacred and healing roles.
From: Agni Purana
(1) Plant species used for medicinal and culinary purposes mentioned throughout the text.[1] (2) The term aushadha represents this type of plant, often associated with healing.[2] (3) Plants like punarnava, rocana, and others mentioned, that are to be mixed with barley flour and rubbed on the body before bathing.[3] (4) Plants used in the remedies that require proper handling and obeisance before use.[4]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) A type of plant noted as hb.[5]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 5: Treatment of various afflictions
(1) Plants utilized in the treatment of worm-related ailments, often referenced in conjunction with other remedies.[6]
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) Plants that the husband addresses with a mantra to bestow strength on the Nyagrodha shoot.[7]
The concept of Herb in scientific sources
Herb refers to plant-based substances utilized in Ayurveda for their effects on the urinary system and specifically highlights C. neilgherrensis as a medicinal plant involved in this traditional practice.
From: AYU (Journal of Research in Ayurveda)
(1) A plant used for medicinal purposes, specifically referring to C. neilgherrensis in this context.[8] (2) Plant-based substances used in Ayurveda, specifically chosen for their varied actions on the urinary system.[9]
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) Plant-based substances utilized in Ayurvedic practices believed to provide health benefits and assist in maintaining pregnancy.[10] (2) Plants used for medicinal purposes in Ayurveda to support health and treat conditions, often related to Agni.[11]