Identification of canda
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Identification of canda
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Original source:
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N.S. Mooss
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Identification of canda
Year: 1984
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
In the article "Identification of Canda" by N.S. Mooss, the author investigates the plant referred to as "canda" within classical Ayurvedic texts, particularly highlighting its association with the Eladi-Gana as mentioned by Vahata and Susruta. Various interpretations and synonyms are explored, particularly the relationship between canda and coraka, leading to significant confusion regarding their identity. The author delves into historical texts, showing that while both terms appear together, they likely refer to distinct plant species.
Distinct Plant Varieties: Canda and Coraka
The confusion surrounding canda and coraka is a central theme of the article. Mooss notes that while some authors consider canda a synonym for coraka, the classical texts do not support this claim, indicating that they should be regarded as separate entities. According to Dalhana’s commentary, canda represents a variety of coraka characterized by a slight blackish tint. Bhisagarya differentiates them further by categorizing canda into two distinct varieties: a white variety and a yellow variety, known respectively as Canna and Kara in the local Malabar language. The Canna, identified as costus speciosus smith, features prominently in local medicinal practices, while the second variety, Narumcanna, corresponds to kaempferia pandurata Roxb. Both varieties have distinct applications in traditional medicine within Kerala.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the identification of canda requires careful interpretation of classical Ayurvedic texts, highlighting the complexities and nuances in the nomenclature of medicinal plants. The distinctions laid out by ancient scholars not only inform contemporary botanical classifications but also reflect ongoing traditional practices in Kerala. The article underscores the importance of precise botanical identities in pharmacognosy, paving the way for future research to clarify any remaining ambiguities surrounding these traditional herbals and reaffirm their roles in Ayurvedic medicine.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the identity of the plant Canda proposed in the paper?
The paper suggests that Canda is identified with Costus speciosus, specifically used in traditional medicine in Kerala, indicated by various classical texts and synonyms.
How does Bhisagarya classify the varieties of Canda?
Bhisagarya describes two varieties of Canda: a white variety and a yellow variety, each with distinct synonyms and common names used in the Malabar region.
What confusion exists around the terms Canda and Coraka?
Some authors consider Canda a synonym for Coraka, but classical texts indicate they refer to different plants, causing confusion among herbalists and practitioners.
What are the uses of the identified Canna species in Kerala?
Both varieties of Canna are used in traditional medicine preparations by physicians in Kerala for their medicinal properties, particularly the tuberous rootstocks.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Identification of canda”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Canda (Caṇḍā, Caṇḍa, Candā, Cāṇḍa, Camda, Camdama):
Canda refers to a plant mentioned in ancient Ayurvedic texts, notably associated with medicinal uses. It has been confused with other plants, particularly Coraka. The name has distinct references and is linked to varieties known in the Malabar region as Canna and Narumcanna, which possess therapeutic properties.
2) Coraka (Corāka):
Coraka, a term for another plant species, is mentioned alongside Canda in classical texts. It signifies a distinct plant recognized for its own medicinal benefits. The differentiation between Canda and Coraka is crucial in Ayurveda, as it informs practitioners about the specific properties and uses of each plant.
3) Gana (Gaṇa, Gāna):
The term Gana denotes a group or class of plants that share similar properties or uses. Within the context of Ayurvedic texts, Eladi-Gana includes Canda as part of its constituents, indicating the categorization of medicinal plants based on their therapeutic applications in traditional medicine.
4) Costus:
Costus refers to the genus of plants, which includes Costus speciosus, identified as the source of Canna in the study. This plant is recognized for its herbal medicinal properties, particularly in Kerala's traditional practices. It underscores the importance of identifying plant species accurately for effective treatment applications.
5) Eladi (Ela-adi, Elādi):
Eladi is the name of a specific group (Gana) within Ayurvedic classifications where Canda is mentioned. This classification aids in understanding the relationships and distinctions among various medicinal plants, guiding practitioners in their usage and combinations in treating ailments as per ancient health traditions.
6) Medicine:
Medicine in this context pertains to the use of natural plants, such as Canda and Coraka, for therapeutic practices. The identification and proper classification of these plants in texts like the Dhanvantari Nighantu are critical for ensuring effective remedies are utilized in Ayurvedic treatments.
7) Vahata (Vahaṭa):
Vahata is likely a reference to a classical Ayurvedic author or text that contributed to the identification and classification of medicinal plants. His work on Eladi-Gana provides important historical context and substantiation for the identification of Canda and its distinct properties compared to related plants.
8) Kara (Kārā, Kāra, Kaṟa, Kaṟā):
Kara is mentioned as a name for one variety of Canna, although it appears to be outdated in modern usage. The historic reference to this term emphasizes the importance of regional names in understanding the applications and classifications of medicinal plants in Kerala's traditional medicine.
9) Pita (Piṭa, Pitā, Pīta, Pītā, Piṭā):
Pita refers to a second variety of Canda, characterized by its yellow flower and linked to its medicinal applications. Understanding this classification helps differentiate between the varieties of Canda used by Ayurvedic practitioners, ensuring proper utilization of each plant type in healing practices.
10) Dhanvantarinighantu (Dhanvantarinighaṇṭu, Dhanvantari-nighantu):
The Dhanvantari Nighantu is an ancient Ayurvedic text that catalogs medicinal plants and their properties. It includes references to Canda and Coraka, providing essential context for the botanical and therapeutic identification of these plants, which is vital for practitioners of Ayurvedic medicine.
11) Dhanvantari (Dhanvamtari):
Dhanvantari is a mythological figure in Ayurveda, often considered the deity of medicine and health. His association with texts like the Dhanvantari Nighantu ties traditional healing practices to divine guidance, emphasizing the integration of spirituality and science in the development of Ayurvedic medicine.
12) Arunadatta (Aruṇadatta):
Arunadatta is an ancient commentator whose interpretations of classical texts, particularly regarding Canda and its synonymous relationship with Koraka, offer valuable insights for understanding plant identification and usage in Ayurveda. His annotations are critical for clarifying complex relationships between various medicinal plants.
13) Nighantu (Nighaṇṭu, Nighamtu):
Nighantu is a term referring to a glossary or compendium of medicinal plants and their classifications in Ayurveda. Such texts serve as essential references, documenting various plants like Canda, ensuring continuity of knowledge regarding their identification, properties, and application in traditional medicine.
14) Science (Scientific):
In this context, science refers to the systematic study and classification of plants like Canda and Coraka within Ayurveda. The structured approach to identifying, categorizing, and utilizing these plants for medicinal purposes exemplifies the scientific methodology inherent in traditional healing practices.
15) Kopana:
Kopana is a synonym for Canda according to certain interpretations. It underscores the nuanced naming conventions within Ayurvedic texts that attribute related meanings and characteristics to different plants, supporting the complexity of plant classification and the importance of precise identification in medicinal contexts.
16) Krishna (Kṛṣṇā, Kṛṣṇa):
Krsna appears in relation to the description of Canda, specifically referring to its slightly blackish coloration. This detail highlights the significance of morphology in plant identification, indicating how physical attributes directly contribute to the classification and recognition of medicinal varieties.
17) Kuva (Kūva):
Kuva is part of the local terminology for Canna in Malabar, signifying the cultural and linguistic diversity in plant names and classifications. Recognizing regional variations in plant nomenclature is essential for accurate identification and the preservation of traditional medicinal knowledge.
18) Mala (Māla, Mālā, Māḻā, Māḷa, Maḻa):
Mala likely refers to the Malabar region where these plants, specifically Canna and Narumcanna, are cultivated and utilized in Ayurvedic practices. The geographical context is crucial as it informs the local medical tradition and the preservation of specific plant varieties within health practices.
19) Ishat (Īṣat, Ishad, Īṣad):
Isat is a term alluding to specificity in color descriptions, particularly of Canda. Such descriptors contribute vital information for differentiating plant varieties within Ayurveda, showcasing the role of detailed observations in maintaining rigorous plant classification standards critical for effective medicinal applications.