Folklore uses of acalypha indica in ayurveda system
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Folklore uses of acalypha indica in ayurveda system
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
G. Venkateshwarlu and Dr. CH. Sridhar
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Folklore uses of acalypha indica in ayurveda system
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr201712-9659
Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The reliance on herbal medicine has deep roots in ancient history, where communities primarily depended on plant-based treatments due to the unavailability of allopathic drugs. Today, while both Ayurvedic and allopathic medicines are utilized, many chronic conditions remain inadequately treated by allopathic remedies. As a result, traditional Ayurvedic practices, which incorporate around 3,000 medicinal plants in India, have garnered renewed interest. This review focuses on one such plant, Acalypha indica, exploring its extensive pharmacological properties and applications as a herbal remedy.
Medicinal Applications of Acalypha Indica
Acalypha indica is recognized for its diverse therapeutic applications, particularly in treating gastrointestinal issues and skin conditions. The plant's leaf juice has been traditionally used to induce purgation and expel intestinal worms, with specific dosages recommended for children and adults. Furthermore, the juice, when boiled with ginger, can be applied topically to alleviate pain in affected body areas. The leaves may also be ground with salt to treat skin infections like scabies. Such applications highlight the plant's role in providing relief from both internal ailments and external conditions, emphasizing its importance in traditional herbal medicine.
Treatment of Respiratory and Urinary Issues
Another significant utilization of Acalypha indica involves the management of respiratory and urinary problems. The plant is known to promote mucus secretion from the respiratory tract, making it beneficial for conditions such as bronchitis, asthma, and pneumonia. Additionally, it aids in increasing urine flow, contributing to better urinary health. These applications underline the herb's importance in managing chronic respiratory diseases and enhancing urinary function, making it a valuable resource in Ayurvedic treatments.
Anti-parasitic and Anthelmintic Properties
Acalypha indica also exhibits notable anti-parasitic and anthelmintic properties. Its leaves can be used in various formulations to eliminate parasites from the body, particularly in children. The crushed leaves, applied topically or ingested, are effective in treating skin maladies and in inducing deworming. This characteristic is critical, as it addresses common health concerns related to parasitic infections, which can have a significant impact on overall health, particularly in rural populations with limited access to pharmaceutical options.
Conclusion
The review of Acalypha indica reveals its critical role in herbal medicine, particularly within the context of Ayurveda. With a myriad of pharmacological activities ranging from anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial effects to its beneficial use in treating chronic ailments and infections, this plant exemplifies the essential connection between traditional medicine and health care. Not only does Acalypha indica serve a vital function in rural healthcare settings where access to modern medicine could be limited, but it also stands as a testament to the enduring efficacy of herbal therapeutic practices in contemporary society.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What traditional uses does Acalypha indica have in Ayurveda?
Acalypha indica is used for its hepatoprotective, anti-ulcer, antibacterial, anthelmintic, and emetic properties. It's also effective in treating skin diseases, cough, bronchitis, and aiding in expelling intestinal worms.
How is Acalypha indica used for purgation in children?
The leaf juice or boiled extract is given to children in doses of 15-30 ml. This helps induce purgation and expel mucus and intestinal worms effectively.
What are the applications of Acalypha indica for skin infections?
Acalypha indica leaves, when ground with salt, are applied externally to treat skin infections, such as scabies. The paste can also be used on ulcers and poisonous bites for relief.
In what ways does Acalypha indica help with respiratory issues?
Acalypha indica promotes mucus removal from the respiratory system, aiding in the treatment of bronchitis, asthma, and pneumonia, thereby improving overall lung health.
Can Acalypha indica assist in treating chronic diseases?
Yes, Acalypha indica plays a crucial role in managing chronic diseases due to its medicinal properties, which include antibacterial, anticancer, and hepatoprotective effects.
What specific ailments does Acalypha indica address?
Acalypha indica is used for toothaches, fever, skin diseases, anal issues, and inflammatory conditions. It also has applications in treating allergies and digestive complaints.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Folklore uses of acalypha indica in ayurveda system”. 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) Disease:
Disease refers to a pathological condition of a bodily part, an organism, or system resulting from various factors, including infection, genetic defect, or environmental stress, which is discussed in the context of traditional herbal remedies like Acalypha indica that aim to treat or alleviate such conditions, particularly in chronic cases.
2) Drug:
In the context of herbal medicine, 'drug' refers to a substance used for medical treatment, particularly those derived from plants. It underlines the shift from allopathic to herbal remedies, emphasizing that Acalypha indica and other plants serve as vital alternatives for relief from various diseases not effectively addressed by conventional drugs.
3) Activity:
Activity in this context pertains to the pharmacological effects and therapeutic benefits of using Acalypha indica. The term encompasses various beneficial actions, such as its hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, and antibacterial properties, illustrating the diverse applications of herbal medicines in treating numerous health issues.
4) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine originating in India, emphasizing natural healing and the balance of body energies. It plays a crucial role in the discussion of Acalypha indica, underscoring its utilization in various Ayurvedic formulations to treat chronic ailments and promote overall health through herbal remedies.
5) Medicine:
Medicine refers to the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases. In this context, it highlights the longstanding incorporation of medicinal plants, such as Acalypha indica in folk and traditional systems, demonstrating the blend of empirical knowledge and herbal treatments in managing health.
6) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological pertains to the branch of medicine concerned with the uses and effects of drugs. The term is particularly relevant when discussing the various medicinal properties of Acalypha indica, elaborating on its mechanisms of action and efficacy in treating conditions like infections or inflammatory diseases.
7) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibacterial refers to substances that inhibit bacterial growth or kill bacteria. In the context of Acalypha indica, its antibacterial properties signify its potential as a natural remedy against infections, aligning with the broader discussion of the therapeutic efficacy of herbal medicines in addressing various ailments.
8) India:
India is a country rich in traditional medicinal practices, particularly Ayurveda, which emphasizes the use of herbal plants. The mention of India highlights the geographic and cultural significance of Acalypha indica and other indigenous plants, illustrating their role in local health practices and herbal medicine systems.
9) Tuberculosis:
Tuberculosis is a potentially serious infectious disease that primarily affects the lungs. Highlighting its mention underscores the relevance of traditional herbal remedies, such as Acalypha indica, in combating chronic infections, particularly in resource-limited settings where access to modern medicine may be restricted.
10) Developing:
Developing refers to countries with low to moderate income, often characterized by limited access to healthcare. The context emphasizes the reliance on traditional medicinal practices, including the use of Acalypha indica, which plays a crucial role in health management in areas lacking comprehensive medical facilities.
11) Scorpion:
Scorpion refers to the potentially dangerous insects, and in this context, it highlights the mention of Acalypha indica as a remedy for scorpion bites. This showcases the plant's use in traditional medicine for treating specific envenomations and displaying its broad therapeutic applications.
12) Allergy:
Allergy describes a hypersensitive reaction to certain substances. The mention of allergies in relation to Acalypha indica draws attention to the plant's potential role in alleviating symptoms associated with allergic reactions, emphasizing the importance of herbal remedies in treating diverse health conditions.
13) Ulcer:
An ulcer is a sore that develops on the skin or mucous membranes, often caused by infection. Acalypha indica's mention underscores its traditional use in treating ulcers, illustrating the plant's significance in folk medicine and its efficacy in promoting healing in affected areas.
14) Rich (Rch):
Rich refers to the abundance of resources, particularly medicinal plants. In this context, it signals the great diversity of herbal remedies available, including Acalypha indica, which are crucial for health and healing practices, especially in regions reliant on traditional medicine due to limited access to modern healthcare.
15) Worm:
Worm refers to parasitic organisms that can infect the human body, leading to various health issues. The mention emphasizes Acalypha indica's use as an anthelmintic in traditional medicine, showcasing its importance in managing infections caused by intestinal worms and promoting overall health.
16) Salt (Salty):
Salt, particularly in the context of herbal medicine, is often used as a preservative and a therapeutic agent. Its relationship with Acalypha indica highlights its role in enhancing the effectiveness of herbal remedies, illustrating how traditional practices merge culinary and medicinal uses.
17) Substance:
Substance refers to any material with a definite chemical composition. In the context of traditional medicine, it emphasizes the various active compounds found in plants like Acalypha indica that contribute to their medicinal properties, crucial for understanding how these plants can treat specific ailments.
18) Garlic:
Garlic is often used in herbal medicine for its therapeutic properties. Mentioning garlic in the context of Acalypha indica emphasizes the combination of different natural products to enhance health benefits, showcasing traditional approaches to treating ailments by synergistically using multiple herbal remedies.
19) Reason:
Reason signifies the rationale behind the preference for herbal medicine over allopathic treatments. In this context, it reveals the underlying belief that herbal remedies like Acalypha indica may offer more effective, sustainable solutions for chronic diseases, encouraging further exploration of traditional approaches in medicine.
20) Indian:
Indian refers to the cultural and geographical identity related to the country of India. It highlights the rich heritage of traditional medicine practices, particularly Ayurveda, in which Acalypha indica plays a significant role, emphasizing the importance of local knowledge in health management.
21) Kapha:
Kapha refers to one of the three doshas in Ayurveda that govern bodily functions and health. Mentioning Kapha illustrates how Acalypha indica's use in traditional medicine relates to Ayurvedic principles, showcasing its potential in balancing bodily energies and treating related disorders.
22) Fever:
Fever is an elevated body temperature indicating infection or illness. In traditional medicine, including the use of Acalypha indica, the mention of fever illustrates the plant's relevance in managing symptoms related to infections, emphasizing its importance in holistic health practices.
23) Tree:
Tree refers to a perennial plant with an elongated stem. In this context, it symbolizes the source of Acalypha indica, emphasizing its natural origin and the role of various plant parts within herbal medicine, which is integral to understanding its applications and benefits in health.
24) Wind:
Wind can symbolize the movement of air, but in a medicinal context, it may represent respiratory health. The mention of wind relates to the use of Acalypha indica for respiratory conditions, illuminating the interconnectedness of nature, air quality, and holistic health approaches in traditional medicine.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Folklore uses of acalypha indica in ayurveda system’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Acalypha indica, Medicinal plant, Chronic disease, Emesis, Scorpion bite, Antibacterial activity, Pharmacological activity, Antidiabetic activity, Herbal drug, Rural people, Skin infection.
Concepts being referred in other categories, contexts and sources.