Studies on some south indian market samples of ayurvedic drugs - iii
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Studies on some south indian market samples of ayurvedic drugs - iii
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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K. Vasusevan Nair, S. N. Yoganarasimhan, K. Gopakumar, K. R. Keshavamurthy, T. R. Shantha
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Studies on some south indian market samples of ayurvedic drugs - iii
Year: 1984
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study presented in this paper focuses on the analysis of Ayurvedic drugs available in South Indian markets, specifically examining four drugs: Sariva, Prasarani, Dusparsa, and Agaru. The primary aim is to collect and identify market samples, provide therapeutic properties, applicable synonyms, and details regarding their botanical sources and chemical constituents. This work aims to enhance the Ayurvedic material medica and assist local physicians as well as pharmacies in South India, contributing to the understanding of these traditional drugs.
Identification of Sariva: A Key Ayurvedic Drug
The drug Sariva, derived from Hemidesmus indicus, is characterized by its reddish-brown slender roots. In South India, a related species, Decalepis hamiltonii, is also mistaken for Sariva due to its aromatic properties and similar chemical constituents. Sariva is valued for its health benefits, including properties that purify blood, alleviate fever, and promote lactation, making it integral in various Ayurvedic formulations. The identification of Sariva underscores the necessity of rigorous market studies to ensure the authenticity and efficacy of Ayurvedic drugs being used by practitioners.
Conclusion
The findings of this study underline the critical importance of identifying authentic sources of Ayurvedic drugs in South Indian markets. By documenting the characteristics, properties, and botanical identities of Sariva, Prasarani, Dusparsa, and Agaru, the authors provide essential information that can aid practitioners and enhance the quality of Ayurvedic medicine. Such studies not only promote the use of correct herbal materials but also ensure that the therapeutic benefits attributed to these drugs are based on verified plant sources, thereby enriching the existing knowledge base of traditional medicinal practices.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the significance of studying South Indian market samples of Ayurvedic drugs?
Studying these market samples is essential for identifying therapeutic properties, accepted sources, synonyms, and botanical details of Ayurvedic drugs, enriching the Ayurvedic material medica and ensuring proper usage in traditional medicine.
What is Sariva and its accepted source?
Sariva refers to the roots of Hemidesmus indicus, characterized by reddish-brown coloration. In South India, a similar root identified as Decalepis hamiltonii is also used due to its comparable aroma, taste, and chemical constituents.
What is the botanical source of Prasarani?
The accepted source of Prasarani is the whole plant of Paederia foetida. However, in South India, a creeping herb, Merremia tridentate, is also commonly sold and used as Prasarani in traditional medicine.
What are the uses of Agaru in Ayurvedic medicine?
Agaru, derived from Aquilaria agallocha, is valued for its laghutheekshna guna and aromatic properties. It's commonly used in formulations like Eladi gana and Brahma rasayna, serving various therapeutic purposes including enhancing digestive health.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Studies on some south indian market samples of ayurvedic drugs - iii”. 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) Drug:
A drug refers to any substance used for medicinal purposes. In the context of this study, it specifically pertains to Ayurvedic drugs derived from various plant sources. The importance of identifying and studying these drugs lies in their therapeutic applications and role in traditional healing practices.
2) Sariva (Sāriva, Sārivā, Śāriva, Shariva):
Sariva is an Ayurvedic drug sourced primarily from Hemidesmus indicus, known for its medicinal properties. It is recognized for benefits such as blood purification and treatment of blood-related ailments. Variants sold in markets include roots from related species, highlighting the need for precise identification in herbal medicine.
3) Duhsparsha (Dusparśa, Dusparśā, Duḥsparśa, Duḥsparśa, Dusparsha, Dushparsha, Duhshparsha):
Dusparsa, or Dhanvayasa, represents an Ayurvedic drug obtained from Fagonia cretica. However, variations in market samples reveal the use of Tragia involucrata, which showcases the complexities in herbal products. Understanding its medicinal uses and properties like vatasamana is critical for effective Ayurvedic practice.
4) Vipaka (Vipāka):
Vipaka refers to the post-digestive effect of a drug in Ayurveda, essential in determining how it acts in the body after consumption. It helps in characterizing a drug's long-term effects on the system, such as whether it can be considered sweet or pungent in nature.
5) Agaru:
Agaru, or agarwood, is derived from Aquilaria agallocha. It is notable for its aromatic heartwood used in various preparations. The presence of alternative sources such as Dysoxylum malabaricum emphasizes the importance of correct botanical identification for achieving desired medicinal and aromatic properties.
6) Katu (Kaṭu, Kātu):
Katu signifies a bitter or pungent taste, attributed to specific Ayurvedic drugs. This taste plays a key role in classifying herbal preparations and understanding their effects on the body's doshas. Evaluation of compounds exhibiting 'katu' properties is essential for their correct application in treatments.
7) Rasa (Rasā, Rasha):
Rasa translates to taste and is a fundamental concept in Ayurveda, affecting the therapeutic application of drugs. Each rasa influences the drug's action, impacting digestion and the interplay between different doshas, thereby guiding practitioners in forming effective treatment plans.
8) Guna (Guṇa, Gūna):
Guna refers to the inherent qualities or characteristics of substances in Ayurvedic medicine. Understanding the guna of a drug is critical for evaluating its therapeutic efficacy and compatibility with individual patient needs in Ayurvedic healthcare formulations.
9) Gupta (Guptā):
Gupta likely refers to an author or researcher mentioned within the literature, specifically in relation to the therapeutic properties and formulations of Ayurvedic drugs. His work contributes to the foundational understanding of medicinal plants used in Ayurveda.
10) Blood:
Blood plays a vital role in Ayurvedic medicine, with various drugs targeting blood purification and conditions affecting it. Recognizing the relationship between herbal drugs and their impact on blood health is crucial for developing effective Ayurvedic remedies.
11) Sara (Śāra, Shara, Sāra, Ṣaṟā):
Sara pertains to the quality or essence of a substance that contributes to its effectiveness in treatments. The references to 'sara' inform practitioners about the nature and therapeutic properties of the drugs, guiding their applications and combinations.
12) Madhura (Madhurā, Mādhura):
Madhura indicates sweetness, one of the six tastes recognized in Ayurveda. Understanding the madhura quality of a drug is crucial, as it affects digestion and harmonizes qualities that can impact overall health and the effectiveness of treatments.
13) Itching:
Itching is a symptom often treated in Ayurvedic practices, relevant to various conditions. Identifying drugs like Dusparsa which can alleviate itching helps tailor treatments that address specific patient complaints, enhancing the holistic approach of Ayurveda.
14) Aroma (A-roma):
Aroma refers to the fragrance of medicinal plants, which can influence therapeutic uses and patient preferences. The study shows that aromatic qualities are essential for identifying plant sources and their roles in traditional medicine and formulations.
15) Gana (Gaṇa, Gāna):
Gana denotes a group or category of drugs that share similar properties or uses in Ayurveda. Classifying drugs into ganas helps practitioners utilize herbs more effectively based on their therapeutic synergies in specific treatments.
16) Stanyashodhana (Stanyaśodhana, Stanya-shodhana):
Stanyasodhana refers to the purification of breast milk within the context of Ayurvedic treatments. The properties of drugs like Sariva that aid in this process underscore their multifaceted roles in maternal and child health management.
17) Dahaprashamana (Dāhapraśamana, Daha-prashamana):
Dahaprasamana signifies the cooling properties of a drug intended to alleviate heat-related conditions. This characteristic is essential for selecting appropriate herbs to balance the body's heat and provide relief during treatments.
18) Madhurarasa (Madhura-rasa):
Madhura-rasa, or the sweet taste, indicates a drug's potential calming and nourishing characteristics. Understanding a drug's madhura-rasa enables practitioners to design treatments that promote health and balance within the body effectively.
19) Bhadraparni (Bhadraparṇī):
Bhadraparni is a synonym used in Ayurvedic texts, referring to a specific Ayurvedic drug resembling Prasarani. This highlights the variation in terminology within Ayurveda and the importance of thorough understanding for correct identification and use.
20) Dhanvayasa (Dhanvayāsa):
Dhanvayasa, synonymous with Dusparsa, reveals the complexity of plant names in Ayurveda. Being aware of multiple names is vital for accurate identification, effective communication among practitioners, and ensuring the correct application in treatments.
21) Vrishcikali (Vṛścikālī):
Vrscikali is another name for the herb Tragia involucrata, showcasing regional naming variations. Such names underscore the importance of thorough botanical and ethnobotanical knowledge in ensuring the correct use of medicinal plants.
22) Vataroga (Vātaroga, Vata-roga):
Vata-roga refers to conditions associated with the Vata dosha in Ayurveda. Understanding the treatments targeting this dosha helps practitioners design holistically tailored therapies for patients experiencing vata-related disorders.
23) Pratanini (Pratāninī):
Pratanini is an accepted synonym for Prasarani. The use of synonyms highlights the connectivity between plants, their properties, and their applications in Ayurvedic medicine, encouraging thorough research for accurate therapeutic use.
24) Suprasara (Suprasarā, Su-prasara):
Suprasara refers to a synonym emphasizing the spreading quality of the herb. Such synonyms reflect the attributes considered important in the identification of Ayurvedic drugs and their anticipated therapeutic effects in patients.
25) Vidaryadi (Vidāryādi):
Vidaryadi denotes a group of Ayurvedic formulations that include various herbs, showcasing the integrated approach of Ayurveda, where multiple plants are utilized collectively for enhanced therapeutic effects.
26) Vagbhata (Vāgbhata):
Vagbhata is a key contributor to Ayurvedic literature, providing an authoritative reference on medicinal plants and their properties. His works inform much of the modern understanding of Ayurvedic practices today.
27) Sarivadi (Sariva-adi, Sārivādi):
Sarivadi refers to a specific group that includes Sariva among its components. Understanding these groups is critical in utilizing combinations of herbs to address particular health issues effectively.
28) Swelling:
Swelling is a common ailment that Ayurvedic drugs aim to treat. Identifying effective herbs for reducing inflammation and fluid retention is crucial to addressing various health issues in this holistic approach.
29) Snigdha (Snigdhā):
Snigdha signifies the oily or unctuous quality of substances in Ayurveda, often associated with nourishing properties. This quality informs practitioners when selecting herbs aimed at enhancing moisture and softness in treatments.
30) Leprosy:
Leprosy, a chronic infectious disease, highlights the importance of herbal treatments in traditional medicine. Certain Ayurvedic drugs possess properties that can potentially aid in managing symptoms and supporting overall health.
31) Science (Scientific):
Science refers to the systematic study of the natural world. The blend of traditional knowledge with scientific research in understanding Ayurvedic drugs underlines the importance of evidence-based medicine for validating and advancing natural health practices.
32) Kashya (Kaśya, Kāśya, Kāśyā):
Kashya signifies a decoction or liquid preparation in Ayurveda, crucial for administering herbal remedies. Understanding the preparation methods ensures practitioners can effectively utilize herbs for therapeutic purposes.
33) Yavasa (Yavāsa, Yāvasa, Yavasha):
Yavasa refers to a synonym for Dusparsa. This highlights the diversity of plant naming conventions in Ayurveda, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding of herbal remedies for effective application.
34) Samana (Śamana, Samāna, Samaṇa, Samanā, Śāmana, Sāmana, Shamana, Samānā):
Samana denotes balancing effects in Ayurveda, crucial for maintaining health among the three doshas. Recognizing which herbs have samana properties is important for developing balanced Ayurvedic treatments.
35) Sarani (Saraṇi, Sharani, Śaraṇī, Śaraṇi, Saraṇī, Sāraṇi, Sāranī):
Sarani indicates the potential laxative effect of certain herbs. Understanding the saffron quality is essential for applying specific treatments for digestive health while balancing the body's doshas.
36) Bitter:
Bitter refers to one of the six tastes in Ayurveda known for stimulating digestion. Recognizing the presence of bitter flavors in herbs informs practitioners on beneficial applications, particularly in digestive disorders.
37) Sharman (Śarma, Sarmā, Sarma, Sharma, Śarman):
Sharma is another author referenced within the literature on Ayurvedic drugs. His contributions build upon the understanding necessary for modern applications of traditional herbal remedies in today's context.
38) Laghu:
Laghu signifies a light quality in Ayurvedic terms, essential for herbs that are easy to digest and metabolize. Recognizing laghu properties helps tailor treatments for individuals with specific health conditions.
39) Taila (Tailā):
Taila translates to oil, a common medium in Ayurveda for delivering therapeutic properties of herbs. Understanding the role of taila in herbal medicines is vital for formulating effective treatments for various conditions.
40) Ushna (Uṣṇa, Uṣṇā):
Usna, parallel to 'ushna,' indicates warmth, playing a significant role in Ayurvedic philosophy. Identifying herbs with usna properties assists in achieving balance in patients requiring heat-based treatment modalities.
41) Eladi (Ela-adi, Elādi):
Eladi refers to a formulation that includes multiple herbs for enhancing therapeutic effects. The recognition of Eladi preparations highlights the collaborative nature of Ayurveda in using plant properties for synergistic effects.
42) Holla:
Holla refers to Dr. B. V. Holla, a contributor and authority in the field of Ayurvedic research. Recognizing key figures within the field enriches the understanding of ongoing developments in Ayurvedic studies.
43) Guru:
Guru signifies the notion of wisdom or notable figures in Ayurveda who contribute extensive knowledge about herbal medicine. Learning from these experts remains crucial for the advancement of Ayurvedic practices.
44) Roga:
Roga refers to illness or disease in Ayurveda, focusing the scope of treatment on specific ailments. Understanding roga helps practitioners select appropriate herbs and formulations to effectively address patient symptoms.
45) Vata (Vāṭa, Vaṭa, Vāta, Vaṭā):
Vata, as one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, encompasses qualities such as movement and dryness. Understanding the Vata dosha and its implications in health enables practitioners to tailor treatments effectively for individuals with Vata imbalances.
46) Yasa (Yaśā, Yaśa, Yasha, Yāsa):
Yasa is synonymous with Dusparsa, and understanding the variations in naming underscores the importance of accurate identification of drugs in Ayurveda for precise therapeutic uses.
47) Milk:
Milk is noted for its nourishing, cooling properties in Ayurvedic medicine, often used in various formulations. Its role in treatments reflects the holistic view of using food as medicine to support overall health.
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