Anti-inflammatory effects of Balarishta and Dhanvantara Gutika.
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Anti – inflammatory potential of balarishta and dhanvantara gutika in albino rats
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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Muzaffer Alam, K.K Shanmuga Dasan, Susan Thomas, Joy Suganthan
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Anti – inflammatory potential of balarishta and dhanvantara gutika in albino rats
Year: 1998
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Balarishta and Dhanvantara gutika are Ayurvedic medicines used to treat various conditions, including rheumatism. This study aimed to evaluate their anti-inflammatory effects, particularly against cotton pellet-induced granuloma in albino rats. The researchers conducted experiments to measure the efficacy of these herbal preparations compared to a reference drug, phenylbutazone, by assessing their impact on various biochemical parameters and organ weights.
Impact on Inflammatory Biomarkers
The study's findings revealed that both Balarishta and Dhanvantara gutika significantly reduced the weight of cotton pellets, which indicates a decrease in inflammation. Additionally, Dhanvantara gutika notably reduced the levels of adrenal ascorbic acid, suggesting a stabilizing effect on inflammatory processes. The treatments also lowered the activities of important liver enzymes such as acid phosphatase, glutamate pyruvate transaminase (GPT), and glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT). The reduction of these enzymes in the liver and serum suggests that both herbal preparations possess mechanisms for stabilizing lysosomal membranes and mitigating inflammation, aligning with their traditional uses in Ayurvedic medicine.
Conclusion
The results of this study support the traditional claims regarding the anti-inflammatory properties of Balarishta and Dhanvantara gutika, demonstrating their potential as effective treatments for inflammatory conditions. By reducing cotton pellet weight and normalizing biochemical markers, these Ayurvedic formulations present a promising alternative to conventional anti-inflammatory medications. This research underlines the importance of further scientific investigation into herbal remedies, validating their role in modern therapeutic settings while encouraging the integration of traditional medicine into contemporary healthcare practices.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What are Balarishta and Dhanvantara gutika used for?
Balarishta and Dhanvantara gutika are Ayurvedic medicines prescribed for various ailments, including rheumatism. They are formulated from natural herbs and are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.
How was the anti-inflammatory activity tested in the study?
The anti-inflammatory activity was assessed using a cotton pellet-induced granuloma model in albino rats. Weight reductions in the cotton pellets were monitored after administering the tested drugs for seven days.
What significant results were found regarding organ weights?
The study reported a significant increase in thymus weight with Balarishta and Dhanvantara gutika treatments. Additionally, both drugs significantly reduced cotton pellet weights, indicating their anti-inflammatory efficacy.
What biochemical parameters were analyzed in the study?
The study analyzed liver enzyme activities, ascorbic acid levels in adrenal glands, and serum protein concentrations. Treatments with Balarishta and Dhanvantara gutika showed significant reductions in acid phosphatase, GPT, and GOT activities.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Anti-inflammatory effects of Balarishta and Dhanvantara Gutika.”. 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) Gutika (Guṭika, Guṭikā):
Gutika refers to a category of Ayurvedic medicines that are prepared in the form of pills or tablets. These formulations often combine various herbal ingredients to enhance therapeutic efficacy. In the context of the study, Dhanvantara gutika was one of the tested remedies shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.
2) Drug:
A drug is a substance used to diagnose, cure, treat, or prevent disease. Both Balarishta and Dhanvantara gutika, as mentioned in the research, are Ayurvedic drugs used to address inflammatory conditions. Their investigation in animal models adds to the understanding of their therapeutic roles.
3) Activity:
In this context, 'activity' refers to the biological effects or actions of the tested drugs. Specifically, it relates to the anti-inflammatory activity both Balarishta and Dhanvantara gutika exhibited when evaluated against induced granuloma in experimental rats, contributing to their validation in Ayurvedic practice.
4) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses substances used for treating diseases and promoting health. The study investigates two Ayurvedic medicines, Balarishta and Dhanvantara gutika, which highlight their potential applications in managing inflammatory conditions like rheumatism, thereby supporting traditional knowledge with scientific inquiry.
5) Water:
Water is a crucial component in the preparation of Ayurvedic medicines, often employed for decoction or extraction of active ingredients. In the formulation of Balarishta, a significant quantity of water is used, reflecting its importance in the preparation process of these therapeutic Ayurvedic concoctions.
6) Cuminum cyminum:
Cuminum cyminum, commonly known as cumin, is a spice with numerous medicinal properties. It is included in the formulation of Dhanvantara gutika, likely contributing to its therapeutic effects. Cumin is often associated with digestive health and anti-inflammatory benefits in traditional medicine.
7) Bhavana (Bhāvanā, Bhāvana, Bha-vana):
Bhavana refers to a process in Ayurveda where herbs or powders are mixed with liquid mediums (like juices or decoctions) to enhance their properties. This practice is believed to amplify the therapeutic efficacy of herbal formulations, such as in the preparation of Dhanvantara gutika.
8) Jiraka (Jīraka):
Jiraka, or cumin seed, is an important ingredient in Ayurvedic medicine known for its digestive and anti-inflammatory properties. It is part of several formulations, including Dhanvantara gutika, where it may enhance the overall effectiveness of the treatment for various ailments.
9) Blood:
Blood plays a critical role in transporting nutrients and immunity markers within the body. In the study, biochemical parameters were assessed from blood samples, providing insights into the physiological effects of Balarishta and Dhanvantara gutika on systemic inflammation.
10) Terminalia chebula:
Terminalia chebula, also known as haritaki, is a revered herb in Ayurveda. It is included in the preparation of Dhanvantara gutika for its potential health benefits, which may include detoxification, digestive support, and anti-inflammatory properties, consistent with Ayurvedic principles.
11) Withania somnifera:
Withania somnifera, or ashwagandha, is a prominent adaptogen in Ayurveda known for its stress-relieving properties. It is one of the key ingredients in Balarishta, contributing to the formulation's overall effectiveness in treating conditions related to weakness and inflammation.
12) Solanum indicum:
Solanum indicum, or Indian nightshade, is included in the Ayurvedic formulation of Dhanvantara gutika. This plant has been traditionally used for various ailments, indicating its relevance in contributing to the medicinal properties of the formulation in the context of enhancing health.
13) Piper cubeba:
Piper cubeba, commonly known as cubeb or tailed pepper, is utilized in Ayurvedic medicine for its purported antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Its inclusion in Dhanvantara gutika may support the formulation's overall therapeutic action against various inflammatory disorders.
14) Tribulus terrestris:
Tribulus terrestris, also known as puncture vine, is an herb traditionally used to enhance vitality and stamina. It is included in the formulation of Balarishta, likely contributing to its use in Ayurvedic treatments for bolstering strength and alleviating inflammatory conditions.
15) Ricinus communis:
Ricinus communis, or castor oil plant, is utilized in Ayurvedic practices for its medicinal properties. Its presence in Balarishta may reflect its role in promoting digestive health and its anti-inflammatory effects, essential in treating conditions like rheumatism.
16) Agnimandya (Agnimāndya, Agni-mandya, Agnimamdya):
Agnimandya, meaning weakened digestive fire in Sanskrit, is a concept in Ayurveda related to various health issues. Balarishta is indicated for conditions associated with Agnimandya, highlighting its relevance in treating ailments by enhancing digestive capacity.
17) Pancangula (Pañcāṅgula, Panca-angula, Pancan-angula, Pañcaṅgula, Pamcamgula):
Pancangula refers to the Ayurvedic term for five roots or plants used therapeutically. It suggests a focus on multi-ingredient formulations like Balarishta, enhancing synergistic effects in addressing diverse health conditions, including inflammation.
18) Ashvagandha (Ashva-gandha, Aśvagandhā, Ashvagamdha):
Asvagandha (Withania somnifera) is a highly regarded herb in Ayurvedic tradition, known for its adaptogenic and rejuvenating properties. Its role in Balarishta exemplifies its significance in treating stress-related issues and bolstering overall health.
19) Shvadamshtra (Śvadaṃṣṭrā, Shvan-damshtra, Shvadanstra, Shvadamstra):
Svadamstra refers to a specific plant used in Ayurvedic medicine, emphasizing the attention to fine details in herb selection for formulations. Its inclusion in Balarishta contributes to the complexity and effectiveness of the Ayurvedic approach to health.
20) Discussion:
The discussion section of the research paper analyzes findings and interprets the implications of the data collected. In examining the effects of Balarishta and Dhanvantara gutika, it connects experimental results with traditional Ayurvedic claims, fostering a bridge between ancient knowledge and modern science.
21) Daurbalya:
Daurbalya translates to physical weakness in Ayurveda. Balarishta is formulated to specifically counteract this condition, providing a contextual basis for its use in treating ailments that lead to reduced vitality and strength.
22) Ayurveda (Āyurveda, Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine originating from India, focusing on holistic health and balance. The newly researched efficacy of Balarishta and Dhanvantara gutika exemplifies Ayurveda's longstanding practices and their potential validation through modern scientific methodologies.
23) Bhunimba (Bhūnimba, Bhu-nimba):
Bhunimba, also known as neem, is integral in Ayurvedic applications for its health benefits. Its inclusion in formulas like Dhanvantara gutika reinforces the emphasis on using multiple herbal components to achieve comprehensive therapeutic effects.
24) Suradaru (Suradāru, Sura-daru):
Suradaru refers to cedar wood, which has various properties in traditional Ayurvedic formulations. Its role in Dhanvantara gutika suggests that aromatic plants are valued not only for their fragrance but also for their medicinal attributes, impacting overall health positively.
25) Rudraksha (Rudrākṣa, Rudra-aksha):
Rudraksa refers to sacred seeds used in spiritual and medicinal contexts in Ayurveda. The inclusion in Dhanvantara gutika signifies its cultural importance, symbolizing the intertwining of spirituality and healing in Ayurvedic traditions.
26) Elephant:
The mention of elephant excreta in the preparation of Dhanvantara gutika (Karigutha) illustrates the historical usage of various substances in traditional medicine. It emphasizes the unique approaches taken to harness biological materials for their reputed therapeutic potential.
27) Dhataki (Dhātakī, Dhātaki):
Dhataki, or firecracker flower, is used in Ayurvedic formulations for its believed benefits. The incorporation of Dhataki in Balarishta signifies the importance placed on flora with multifaceted roles in traditional health practices, promoting wellness and vitality.
28) Karpura (Karpūra):
Karpura, or camphor, is utilized in Ayurveda for its medicinal properties, including its aromatic and therapeutic benefits. Its presence in Ayurvedic formulations indicates its role in enhancing efficacy and the overall appeal of the medicine.
29) Arishta (Ariṣṭa, Ariṣṭa, Ariṣṭā):
Arishta refers to a category of Ayurvedic formulations typically made through fermentation. Balarishta is an example, showcasing the use of natural processes to create effective medicinal solutions that cater to various health issues.
30) Science (Scientific):
Science represents the systematic study of the natural world through observation and experimentation. The research into the anti-inflammatory potential of Balarishta and Dhanvantara gutika demonstrates an effort to substantiate Ayurvedic medicine using scientific methodologies, bridging traditional and modern knowledge.
31) Abhaya (Abhayā):
Abhaya, or Terminalia chebula, is recognized for its beneficial health properties in Ayurveda. It serves an essential role in formulations like Dhanvantara gutika, focusing on detoxification and enhancing immunity, expressing traditional wisdom about integrated health.
32) Kvatha (Kvātha):
Kvatha refers to a method of Ayurvedic preparation where herbs are boiled in water to extract their active principles. This traditional technique underscores the careful process by which potent constituents are derived for therapeutic use in various formulations.
33) Payasa (Pāyasa, Pāyāsa):
Payasa, or rice pudding, is not only a food item but also signifies nourishment in Ayurvedic thought. Its role in Balarishta indicates the importance of utilizing wholesome ingredients to create balanced and effective medicinal formulations.
34) Brihati (Bṛhatī):
Brhati, also referred to as brinjal or eggplant, is recognized for its potential health benefits in Ayurveda. Its inclusion in formulations like Dhanvantara gutika may emphasize the importance of various vegetables and their medicinal properties in traditional health practices.
35) Vataja (Vātaja, Vata-ja):
Vataja refers to disorders caused by the Vata dosha, one of the three fundamental energies in Ayurveda. The formulations are often tailored to balance Vata-related conditions, showcasing the holistic approach of Ayurveda in addressing specific health issues.
36) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, representing the elements of earth and water. Formulations like Balarishta are intended to balance Kapha imbalances, emphasizing the personalized approach prevalent in Ayurvedic treatments for enhancing overall health.
37) Rasna (Rāsnā, Rashna, Rasona, Rasa-una):
Rasna is an Ayurvedic herb known for its anti-inflammatory properties, commonly used in formulations targeting joint and muscle pain. Its inclusion in context reinforces the traditional reliance on specific herbal allies to address particular health concerns.
38) Asava (Āsava, Āśava, Ashava, Āsāva):
Asava refers to a class of Ayurvedic liquids prepared through fermentation. Balarishta falls under this category, showcasing how multiple plants and herbs work together in a liquid form to enhance bioavailability and therapeutic effectiveness.
39) Ushira (Usīra, Uśīra, Usira, Uṣīra):
Usira, known as vetiver, is recognized for its cooling, calming, and aromatic properties. Its inclusion in Ayurvedic formulations like Balarishta may signify the intention to harness these benefits for relieving inflammation and promoting holistic health.
40) Vishva (Viśva, Viśvā, Viṣva, Vishvasa):
Visva refers to the broad category of herbs used in Ayurveda for their diverse health benefits. The inclusion of herbs underlines the holistic philosophy of Ayurvedic medicine, focusing on complex interactions among various plant compounds for therapeutic efficacy.
41) Glass:
Glass, as a laboratory material, is critical in ensuring sterile and safe handling of samples in scientific research. In the context of this study, glass syringes were used for blood collection, emphasizing the importance of precise methodologies in conducting experiments.
42) Dasa (Dāsa, Daśā, Dasā, Daśa, Dāśa, Daśan, Dasha, Dashan):
Dasan pertains to K.K. Shanmuga Dasan, one of the authors of the study. His contributions to the research, in collaboration with other scholars, highlight the synergy between traditional knowledge and scientific validation in understanding Ayurvedic medicinal applications.
43) Roga:
Roga means disease or disorder in Ayurvedic terminology. The formulations under study are intended to manage roga, such as inflammatory conditions, representing the traditional Ayurvedic focus on balancing the body's energies to restore health.
44) Bala (Bāla, Balā, Bālā):
Bala, or Sida cordifolia, is one of the key ingredients in Balarishta. Known for its therapeutic properties, it signifies the emphasis placed on specific plants in Ayurvedic formulations to directly address issues related to strength and vitality.
45) Guda (Guḍa, Guḍā):
Guda, or jaggery, serves as a sweetening agent and is included in Balarishta for its nutritional value. It reflects the Ayurvedic practice of enhancing medicinal concoctions not only for efficacy but also for palatability to support patient compliance.
46) Vati (Vāti, Vāṭī, Vatī, Vaṭi):
Vati refers to a category of Ayurvedic preparations that are pill-like in form. Dhanvantara gutika exemplifies this, showcasing the traditional method of herbal combination to create concentrated formulations designed for specific therapeutic outcomes.
47) Vata (Vāṭa, Vaṭa, Vāta, Vaṭā):
Vata is one of Ayurveda's three doshas and represents qualities of air and space. The study highlights how formulations, such as Balarishta and Dhanvantara gutika, are aimed at balancing disruptions in Vata to maintain overall health and well-being.
48) Kasa (Kasha, Kāsā, Kasā, Kāśa, Kāsa, Kaśa, Kaṣa, Kaṣā, Kāṣa):
Kasa refers to cough or respiratory ailments in Ayurvedic practice. Dhanvantara gutika is indicated for treating kasa-related conditions, demonstrating the formulations' targeted approach to managing health issues based on traditional classifications of diseases.
49) Jati (Jātī, Jaṭin, Jāti, Jatin, Jaṭī, Jaṭi, Jāṭi):
Jati is often associated with jasmine in Ayurvedic formulations. Its inclusion in Dhanvantara gutika signifies the use of fragrant botanicals that may provide aromatic benefits while promoting health, embodying the sensory and therapeutic dimensions of Ayurveda.
50) Cita:
Sida (Sida cordifolia) is known for its health benefits in Ayurvedic medicine, particularly in promoting strength and vitality. As a key ingredient in Balarishta, it reflects the traditional practice of harnessing specific plants believed to contribute significantly to overall wellness.