A critical review of the controversy of elavaluka an ayurvedic drug

Summary of article contents:

Ayurveda is a traditional Indian system of medicine. In the present era, the world is looking towards herbal medicine because of its acceptability and safety. Medicinal plants constitute an effective source of Ayurvedic and another traditional system of medicine as well as modern medicine. About 80% of India’s rural population depends on herbal medicines at the primary health care level. A large percentage of plants used in herbal industries are subject to controversy. The nonavailability of plants, poor understanding, and parallel evolved knowledge systems are some of the reasons for this. The existing practices of the polynomial nomenclature system of Sanskrit, different perceptions in various communities, and vernacular equivalents are cumulative factors for controversy. Elavaluka is one of the controversial drugs used in many formulations like Kalyanaka ghrita , Mahakalyanaka ghrita, Abhayaarista, etc. Elavaluka is promoted in Ayurvedic medicine for its purported benefits in treating various ailments, including inflammatory conditions, anxiety, schizophrenia and respiratory disorders. However, its composition and mode of action need to be welldocumented in scientific literature, raising concerns about its safety and reliability. In conclusion, while Elavaluka remains popular in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, its controversial status necessitates further scientific scrutiny to address safety concerns and validate therapeutic claims effectively. Keywords: Controversy, Elavaluka , Cumulative factors, Acceptability, Necessitates INTRODUCTION Ayurveda is a traditional Indian system of medicine