Nomenclature of anukta dravya
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Nomenclature of anukta dravya
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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Ganji Kusuma, V. K Joshi
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Nomenclature of anukta dravya
Year: 2010
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study of medicinally useful plants has historical and cultural significance, particularly within the context of Ayurveda, where plants are systematically documented in texts such as Samhitas and Nighantus. While many plants have been documented, a considerable number, referred to as Anukta Dravya (undocumented medicinal plants), remain outside classical Ayurvedic literature. These plants, sometimes featuring in folklore or local traditions, indicate the geographical and cultural knowledge of earlier generations. The study emphasizes a need to identify, name, and scientifically analyze these undocumented species to enhance their incorporation into Ayurvedic Materia Medica.
Nomenclature and Identification of Anukta Dravya
A crucial aspect of this study was the accurate naming and identification of ten Anukta Dravya. Researchers conducted field surveys in rural areas of Varanasi, collecting local names and medicinal uses from the community, particularly from traditional healers. Identification was based on Bentham & Hooker's classification, and expert botanists were consulted to confirm the species. The nomenclature of each plant was derived according to criteria established in the Nighantus, incorporating considerations like habitat, morphological characteristics, effects, and traditional names. For instance, plants like Cestrum nocturnum, known locally as Raat ki Rani, were named according to their pharmacodynamics and traditional uses.
Conclusion
The study underscores the significance of documenting and integrating Anukta Dravya into contemporary Ayurvedic practices. It articulates that incorporating these often-overlooked medicinal plants can bridge gaps in the existing Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia, especially where classical drugs may be scarce. The findings not only contribute to the preservation of traditional knowledge but also prepare a foundation for future research in both Ayurvedic and contemporary herbal medicine, ensuring that valuable local flora do not remain unutilized.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main objective of the study on Anukta Dravya?
The main objective is to identify ten undocumented medicinal plants, assign Ayurvedic names, and scientifically analyze them in terms of their properties such as rasa, guna, virya, and vipaka.
How were the undocumented medicinal plants identified?
The plants were identified through field surveys, direct interaction with local folklore experts, and cross-referencing with existing literature using Bentham & Hooker's classification system.
What criteria were used for naming the Anukta Dravya?
Naming was based on various criteria such as traditional usage, morphological characteristics, habitat, and potency, following guidelines from texts like Raja Nighantu and Dhanvantari Nighantu.
Why is the documentation of Anukta Dravya important?
Documenting Anukta Dravya is essential for incorporating these overlooked medicinal plants into Ayurveda, thereby enhancing therapeutic options and filling gaps in the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Nomenclature of anukta dravya”. 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) Dravya:
Dravya refers to substances or materials, particularly in the context of Ayurveda and traditional medicine. It encompasses a wide range of natural and medicinal substances utilized for therapeutic purposes. Understanding the properties and classifications of dravya is essential for the effective application of medicinal plants in health and healing practices.
2) Nighantu (Nighamtu):
Nighantu denotes a compendium or lexicon of plants and their medicinal uses in Ayurveda. These texts serve as critical references for identifying various herbal substances, their synonyms, and therapeutic properties. Nighantus compile traditional knowledge regarding plant-based treatments, acting as crucial guides for practitioners in the field.
3) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine originating in India, focusing on holistic health, balance, and wellness. It integrates physical, mental, and spiritual well-being and emphasizes the use of natural remedies, including herbs and lifestyle changes. Ayurveda's principles prioritize preventive care and individualized treatment, reflecting its rich historical origins.
4) Rajanighantu (Raja-nighantu, Rajan-nighantu):
Raja-nighantu is a specific ancient text in Ayurveda that lists a wide variety of medicinal plants, their classifications, and their uses. It serves as a vital resource for practitioners and researchers, providing insights into the traditional knowledge system surrounding plant-based healing and the nomenclature used for various dravyas.
5) Dhanvantari (Dhanvamtari):
Dhanvantari is a significant figure in Ayurveda, considered the deity of medicine and the physician of the gods. His mythological narratives celebrate the principles of healing and the value of herbal medicine. Dhanvantari's teachings and texts have substantially influenced Ayurvedic practices, guiding practitioners in their therapeutic methodologies.
6) Garuga:
Garuga refers specifically to Garuga pinnata, a medicinal tree recognized for its diverse therapeutic uses in traditional medicine. Studying Garuga helps in understanding the potential health benefits associated with this plant, including applications for respiratory issues and obesity. Hence, Garuga is an essential component in herbal classifications.
7) Raja:
Raja signifies 'king' in Sanskrit, and in the context of Raja-nighantu, it indicates a principal or authoritative source of knowledge regarding medicinal plants. The term emphasizes the importance of foundational texts that guide practitioners in the understanding and application of Ayurvedic principles.
8) Knowledge:
Knowledge in this context encompasses the traditional wisdom surrounding medicinal plants and their uses in Ayurveda. It includes data collected through folklore and empirical studies, facilitating the identification, classification, and therapeutic application of various dravyas, thereby enriching the Ayurvedic practice.
9) Substance:
Substance refers to any physical material used in the preparation of medicines, especially herbal substances. Differentiating between various substances is crucial for the effectiveness of treatment modalities in Ayurveda, where the properties and applications of each substance significantly impact health outcomes.
10) Science (Scientific):
Science refers to the systematic study and analysis of natural phenomena, and in this context, it denotes the empirical approach to understanding medicinal plants' properties and effects. Integrating scientific methodologies with traditional knowledge enhances the validation and effectiveness of Ayurvedic treatments.
11) Dhanvantarinighantu (Dhanvantari-nighantu):
Dhanvantari-nighantu is a comprehensive text that focuses on the nomenclature and therapeutic properties of medicinal plants in Ayurveda. Named after Dhanvantari, it consolidates information about plant characteristics, herbal remedies, and their applications within the framework of traditional medicine, supporting practitioners’ efforts.
12) Habitat:
Habitat refers to the natural environment where a plant species grows, critical for understanding its availability and ecological requirements. Knowledge of a plant's habitat also informs its traditional uses and the adaptability of its therapeutic properties across different regions and conditions.
13) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma is a common surname in India, often associated with scholars and practitioners in traditional fields like Ayurveda. References to Sharma in medicinal texts typically invoke the authority or expertise of individuals contributing to the body of knowledge concerning herbal medicine and therapies.
14) Virya:
Virya translates to 'potency' in Ayurveda, indicating the inherent strength or energetic quality of a herbal substance. Understanding virya is essential for clinicians to determine the effectiveness of a treatment based on the therapeutic properties, interactions, and potential effects of various dravyas.
15) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa means 'taste' in Sanskrit and is fundamental in Ayurveda for classifying herbs by their flavors—sweet, sour, bitter, etc. Each rasa is associated with specific therapeutic effects, aiding practitioners in selecting appropriate remedies based on the patient's constitution and health conditions.
16) Itarahvaya:
Itarahvaya refers to names or characteristics of plants that are prevalent in other regions or cultures. This concept underscores the diversity of nomenclature in plant-based medicine and highlights the importance of cross-referencing traditional practices to enhance the understanding and utilization of medicinal flora.
17) Prabhava:
Prabhava refers to the 'effect' or specific action of a medicinal plant in Ayurveda. It is used to describe the results obtained from using various dravyas, guiding practitioners in selecting the appropriate herbs for desired therapeutic outcomes in patients.
18) Lanchana (Lamchana):
Lanchana relates to morphological characteristics or identifying traits of a plant. Understanding a plant's physical attributes aids in accurate identification and establishes a link between its form and potential therapeutic uses in traditional medicine.
19) Samhita:
Samhita refers to a collection or compilation of texts in Ayurveda that provide systematic knowledge on various subjects, including medicinal plants, treatments, and health principles. Samhitas are vital for preserving ancient medical wisdom and facilitating its application in contemporary practices.
20) Kusuma:
Kusuma translates to 'flower' in Sanskrit. In herbal medicine, the characteristics and properties of flowers are sometimes studied to understand their therapeutic contributions, impressively tied to the overall medicinal profile of a plant.
21) Vipaka:
Vipaka pertains to the final metabolic transformation of a substance in the body, determining its long-term effects post-digestion. Understanding vipaka is crucial for Ayurvedic practitioners to evaluate how herbal substances interact with the body and their subsequent health implications.
22) Rudhi:
Rudhi denotes traditional usage or folklore associated with a plant species, highlighting its significance in local medicinal practices. Understanding rudhi is essential for documenting indigenous knowledge and ensures that it is preserved and utilized within contemporary Ayurvedic medicine.
23) Desha (Desa):
Desha means ‘region’ or ‘place’, indicating the geographical origins of medicinal plants. Knowledge of a plant's desha is crucial in Ayurveda as it informs practitioners about the plant's natural habitat, traditional uses, and cultural significance in various local practices.
24) Upama:
Upama refers to 'simile' or comparative characteristics in Ayurvedic nomenclature. It is used for naming plants based on analogies or similarities to other known entities, thereby facilitating the understanding and identification of plants through relatable descriptors.
25) Nama (Naman, Nãman):
Nama translates to ‘name’ in Sanskrit and is significant in the classification and recognition of medicinal plants. Accurate naming is essential for effective communication and understanding in the Ayurvedic community, ensuring that practitioners can identify and discuss plants and their uses clearly.
26) Guna:
Guna refers to the inherent qualities or attributes of a substance, crucial in Ayurvedic classification and understanding of medicinal plants. Each guna influences how a plant interacts with the human body, guiding practitioners in selecting appropriate remedies based on individual patient needs.
27) Burning sensation:
Burning sensation denotes a specific symptom often addressed in Ayurvedic medicine. Certain medicinal plants are utilized for their cooling or soothing properties to counteract burning sensations caused by various conditions, showcasing the therapeutic roles of various dravyas.
28) Fish poison (Fish venom):
Fish poison refers to substances derived from certain plants or herbs used historically for fishing by incapacitating fish. Understanding how specific plants act as fish poisons demonstrates the broad applications of medicinal plants in both traditional fishing practices and medicine.
29) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a biological response often treated in Ayurveda using various medicinal plants known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Understanding how different dravyas exert their effects on inflammation enables practitioners to offer effective herbal solutions for inflammatory conditions.
30) Atarushaka (Atarusaka):
Atarushaka is a term in Ayurvedic texts that refers to a specific traditional usage or medicinal application. Identifying such terms enriches our understanding of local practices and the historical significance of different herbs in addressing common ailments.
31) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the analytical examination of various topics related to medicinal plants and their uses in Ayurveda. Engaging in such discussions is vital for integrating contemporary science with traditional knowledge, enhancing understanding and effectiveness in herbal medicine.
32) Indrayava (Indra-yava, Imdrayava):
Indrayava refers to the seeds of certain plants known for their medicinal applications in Ayurveda. Specific knowledge about indrayava contributes to the documentation and therapeutic value of herbal medicines, allowing practitioners to utilize them efficiently.
33) Krimighna (Krmighna, Krimi-ghna):
Krimighna signifies a herbal substance with properties to combat parasites or worms. Medicinal plants categorized under krimighna play an essential role in treating ailments caused by parasitic infections, showcasing the therapeutic applications of various dravyas.
34) Rajiphala:
Rajiphala refers to a specific fruit or plant designated in Ayurvedic texts, highlighting its medicinal properties and uses. Proper knowledge about rajiphala supports practitioners in selecting effective remedies based on the plant's therapeutic profile.
35) Medicine:
Medicine in this context refers to the practice of healing and restoring health, particularly through the use of herbal substances in Ayurveda. Understanding diverse medicinal formulations derived from plants is crucial for effective treatment practices and patient care.
36) Debility:
Debility refers to a state of physical weakness or lack of energy often addressed in Ayurvedic medicine. Certain herbal remedies are aimed at restoring vitality and strength, highlighting the role of medicinal plants in promoting overall health.
37) Epilepsy:
Epilepsy is a neurological condition that can be addressed using certain medicinal plants in Ayurveda. Understanding the specific herbal treatments available for epilepsy can greatly assist practitioners in managing this complex condition.
38) Hysteria:
Hysteria refers to psychological conditions that Ayurveda often treats through herbal remedies aiming to restore mental balance and wellbeing. Herbal actions targeting the mind are important in Ayurvedic practices treating hysteria.
39) Kairata:
Kairata is a term that refers to specific traditional practices or herbal applications often utilized in specific regions of India. Knowledge of its application enhances the understanding of local medicinal practices and indigenous knowledge systems.
40) Mahishi (Mahisi):
Mahishi refers to a particular plant or substance noted in Ayurvedic texts, recognized for its medicinal benefits. Identifying and understanding the uses of mahishi allows practitioners to utilize these traditional resources effectively in modern healthcare.
41) Vaidehi:
Vaidehi might denote a traditional or culturally significant plant recognized in specific regional practices. Understanding the role of vaidehi contributes to distinguishing between various local medicinal practices and plants' therapeutic purposes.
42) Leprosy:
Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease that has been addressed through various Ayurvedic treatments utilizing specific plants known for their healing properties. Studying these plants provides insights into historical treatment options and holistic approaches in Ayurveda.
43) Tulasi:
Tulasi, or holy basil, is a revered plant in Ayurvedic medicine, known for its potent health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and adaptogenic properties. Understanding tulasi's role enhances appreciation for its significance in both spiritual and medicinal practices.
44) Kesara (Keshara):
Kesara in Ayurveda refers to the reproductive parts of plants, particularly those used for medicinal purposes. Understanding the role of kesara is vital in traditional herbal formulations, contributing to the therapeutic efficacy of various dravyas.
45) Ushana (Usana):
Ushana signifies warmth or heating qualities attributed to certain medicinal plants. Understanding ushana is essential for practitioners to select appropriate remedies that align with patients' specific health needs and conditions, particularly in managing cold-related ailments.
46) Pushpa (Puspa):
Pushpa translates to 'flower,' indicating a specific part of plants often used medicinally. The therapeutic properties of flowers can be distinct, and understanding their role in herbal formulations enriches the overall practice of Ayurveda.
47) Botany:
Botany is the scientific study of plants, encompassing their structure, growth, and properties. In Ayurveda, botany is foundational for accurately identifying and utilizing medicinal plants, merging traditional knowledge with modern scientific understanding in herbal medicine.
48) Karma (Karman):
Karma refers to the actions or effects derived from substances, particularly in the context of their therapeutic effects or healing powers in Ayurveda. Understanding karma guides practitioners in the selection and application of dravyas for specific health conditions.
49) Ghoda:
Ghoda may refer to specific plant names associated with particular medicinal properties in Ayurveda. Understanding its use contextualizes the broader knowledge of regional practices and signifies the importance of vernacular names in medicinal botany.
50) Ulcer:
Ulcer is a condition often treated using specific herbs known for their healing properties in Ayurveda. Knowledge about herbal treatments for ulcers enhances practitioners' ability to address gastrointestinal issues effectively.
51) Vana:
Vana translates to 'forest' or 'wild,' referring to plants found in natural settings. The knowledge of vana plants is crucial for understanding the ecological importance and potential therapeutic applications of wild medicinal herbs.
52) Kala:
Kala denotes a concept of time or phases, often associated with seasonal practices in Ayurveda. Understanding kala is essential for integrating seasonal variations into herbal treatment methodologies, ensuring that practices reflect changing environmental conditions.
53) Jati (Jatin):
Jati signifies categories or classifications, particularly regarding plant species in Ayurveda. Understanding jati is essential for organizing herbal resources and ensuring that practitioners can locate and apply appropriate medicines effectively.
54) Fish:
Fish may reference its relevance in traditional medicine, where certain fish species or their derivatives are used for therapeutic purposes. Studying fish in context expands the diversity of resources available in herbal remedies.
55) Worm:
Worm typically refers to parasitic organisms treatable through herbal remedies in Ayurveda. Understanding the medicinal plants used for addressing worm infestations helps in applying effective treatment strategies for such conditions.
56) Post:
Post refers to publications or reports discussing various aspects of medicinal plants and traditional practices. Knowledge of scholarly work in this area is vital for advancing the understanding and application of Ayurvedic medicine.
57) Drug:
Drug generally refers to any substance used for therapeutic purposes, emphasizing the categorization and application of various medicinal plants within Ayurveda. Understanding the classification of herbal drugs is essential for practitioners to effectively manage health conditions.