Pharmacognostical study of Janakia arayalpatra (Periplocaceae)
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Pharmacognostical studies of janakia arayalpatra joseph et. chandrasekharan (periplocaceae)
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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N. Lekshmi, S. Rajasekharan, C.R. Jawahar, K. Radhakrishnan, P.K.Ratheesh Kumar, P Pushpangadhan
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Pharmacognostical studies of janakia arayalpatra joseph et. chandrasekharan (periplocaceae)
Year: 1992
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Janakia arayalpatra, known locally as 'Amruthapala,' is a rare and endemic medicinal plant species belonging to the Periplocaceae family. First described in 1978 by Joseph and Chandrasekharan, this plant thrives in the southern forested regions of the Western Ghats in Kerala, India. It has garnered attention due to its significant medicinal properties, which were identified through ethnopharmacological investigations involving the local Kani tribe. Traditionally, the Kani tribe utilizes this plant for various health issues, including peptic ulcers, cancer-related ailments, and as a rejuvenating tonic to restore strength and stamina.
Pharmacognostical Studies
A detailed pharmacognostical study was conducted to elucidate the anatomical and chemical characteristics of Janakia arayalpatra, particularly focusing on its roots. The roots are noted for their distinctive morphology, which includes a long, tuberous structure and an aromatic profile similar to Hemidesmus indicus. Microscopic examination revealed a complex organization, with a well-developed cork layer and active phloem containing phloem fibers and ray cells. The chemical analysis highlighted the presence of biodynamic compounds, including triterpenoids and phenolic compounds, with β-sitosterol identified among the constituents. These findings underscore the plant's potential for medicinal use, emphasizing its importance as a source of therapeutic bioactive compounds.
Conclusion
The comprehensive pharmacognostical investigation of Janakia arayalpatra supports its traditional medicinal uses and points to its potential as a valuable resource for developing new medicinal products. Acknowledging the collaborative efforts and support from various institutions and government bodies, the study not only enriches the existing knowledge about this unique plant but also encourages future research efforts into the isolation and characterization of its bioactive compounds. The continued exploration of Janakia arayalpatra may yield significant advancements in natural medicine and ethnopharmacology.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Janakia arayalpatra and where is it found?
Janakia arayalpatra, known to the Kani tribe as ‘Amruthapala’, is a rare and endemic plant species found in the southern forested region of the Western Ghats, Kerala.
What traditional uses does Janakia arayalpatra have?
The Kani tribe uses Janakia arayalpatra as an effective remedy for peptic ulcers and cancer-like afflictions. It is also recognized as a rejuvenating tonic to restore lost strength.
What kind of studies have been conducted on Janakia arayalpatra?
Pharmacognostical investigations have revealed anatomical features similar to Asclepiadaceae and identified biodynamic compounds in its roots, suggesting potential medicinal value.
Who were the researchers involved in studying Janakia arayalpatra?
The study was carried out by researchers N. Lekshmi, S. Rajasekharan, C.R. Jawahar, K. Radhakrishnan, P.K. Ratheesh Kumar, and P. Pushpangadan, affiliated with various Indian research institutions.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Pharmacognostical study of Janakia arayalpatra (Periplocaceae)”. 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) Pharmacognostical:
Pharmacognostical pertains to the study of medicines derived from natural sources, especially plants. In the context of Janakia arayalpatra, pharmacognostical studies involve detailed examination of its physical and chemical properties, revealing its potential medicinal value as reported by the Kani tribe, particularly for ailments like peptic ulcers and cancer-like conditions.
2) Science (Scientific):
Science is the systematic study of the natural world, encompassing various disciplines that explore the properties, behaviors, and interactions of matter. In this context, it indicates the rigorous methodologies employed in researching the pharmacognostical characteristics of Janakia arayalpatra, contributing to our understanding of its medicinal properties and potential applications.
3) Patra (Pātra):
Patra, meaning 'leaf' in Sanskrit, connects to the nomenclature of Janakia arayalpatra, which refers to its leaves' resemblance to those of Ficus religiosa, known locally as 'Arayal'. The term reflects the cultural significance and botanical identity that enrich the understanding of this endemic plant's utility in traditional medicine.
4) Aroma (A-roma):
Aroma suggests a pleasant smell that characterizes certain plants, including Janakia arayalpatra, which has an appealing fragrance noted during pharmacognostical studies. This aromatic quality indicates the presence of volatile compounds, which may enhance the medicinal properties and sensory experience associated with its traditional uses and applications.
5) Drug:
In pharmacognosy, a drug is a substance with medicinal properties used for diagnosis, cure, treatment, or prevention of diseases. Janakia arayalpatra's designation as a drug arises from its use by the local Kani tribe to treat conditions such as peptic ulcers and potential cancer, highlighting its therapeutic significance and traditional knowledge.
6) Fragrance:
Fragrance refers to a sweet or pleasant odor, an essential aspect of Janakia arayalpatra, contributing to its identification and appeal in traditional medicine. The plant's fragrance aligns with pharmacological interest, as it may indicate the presence of bioactive compounds that support its uses in treatments and enhance its commercial prospects.
7) Ayurveda (Āyurveda, Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a holistic system of traditional medicine originating from India, emphasizing balance in physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inclusion of Janakia arayalpatra in this context reflects its cultural and medicinal importance, as it is utilized in Ayurvedic practices among the Kani tribe for its therapeutic benefits, particularly in rejuvenation.
8) Sharada (Śāradā, Śārada, Śaradā, Sāradā, Sārada, Sarada, Sara-da):
Sarada refers to Dr. L. Sarada Amma, a key figure associated with the study of Janakia arayalpatra. Her role as a principal investigator emphasizes collaboration in scientific research, supporting the investigation of the plant's pharmacognostical properties and its application in traditional medicine, particularly regarding health and wellness.
9) Cancer:
Cancer represents a significant area of medical research, indicating the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells. Janakia arayalpatra has been reported to possess anti-cancerous properties, as noted by the Kani tribe and explored through pharmacognostical studies, suggesting its potential role in alternative therapies for treating or preventing cancerous afflictions.
10) Phlegm:
Phlegm refers to a thick mucus secreted by the respiratory system, often associated with infections or conditions like cough and cold. Although not directly connected to Janakia arayalpatra's pharmacognostical context, the term emphasizes the need to investigate various bodily responses to traditional remedies, exploring their effects on symptoms like phlegm production.
11) Sugar:
Sugar encompasses carbohydrates, specifically monosaccharides and disaccharides, serving as a primary source of energy. The presence of sugars in Janakia arayalpatra indicates its nutritional aspect, which can complement its medicinal properties, enhancing its flavor and palatability while also being essential in the plant's metabolic processes.
12) Ulcer:
Ulcer denotes a painful sore that can occur in various organs, notably the stomach. Janakia arayalpatra is used as a traditional remedy for peptic ulcers among the Kani tribe, indicating its historical significance in addressing gastrointestinal issues and the importance of traditional knowledge in modern pharmacognostical research.
13) Coma:
Coma, in botanical terms, describes a tuft of hair or fibers, particularly in relation to seeds. While not explicitly connected to Janakia arayalpatra's medicinal uses, its consideration within pharmacognostical studies reflects a comprehensive examination of plant morphology and structure, contributing to a deeper understanding of its potential applications in medicine.
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