Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Saraca asoca (ashoka)
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Subtitle: a review
Original source:
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Rasika Vilas Kulkarni
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Saraca asoca (ashoka)
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr201819-13768
Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The review article by Rasika Vilas Kulkarni focuses on Saraca asoca (Roxb.) Wilde, commonly known as Ashoka, a significant tree in Indian culture and traditional medicine. Ashoka is well-known in Ayurveda, the ancient system of medicine that utilizes herbal therapies to treat various ailments. The tree, revered for its medicinal properties, is native to India, especially prevalent in regions such as the Himalayas, Kerala, Bengal, and southern India. The review delves into its botanical description, phytochemical constituents, medicinal uses, and various pharmacological activities attributed to this indigenous plant.
Antimicrobials and Other Pharmacological Actions
Saraca asoca has been recognized for its wide array of pharmacological properties, including antimicrobial and anti-cancer activities. The bark and flowers of this tree are particularly noteworthy for their efficacy in treating gynecological disorders, such as menorrhagia and dysmenorrhea, by acting as uterine tonics and sedatives. Additionally, various parts of the plant demonstrate anti-cancer activity, with reports indicating cytotoxic effects on cancerous cell lines while exhibiting minimal toxicity to normal lymphocytes. Other important attributes include anti-hyperglycemic and anti-oxidant effects, suggesting the potential for Saraca asoca in managing diabetes and oxidative stress-related conditions.
Phytochemical Composition
The phytochemical analysis of Saraca asoca reveals the presence of significant bioactive compounds responsible for its therapeutic effects. The bark is rich in flavonoids, tannins, glycosides, and saponins, alongside specific compounds like catechols and lignans. The flowers contain fatty acids, sterols, and anthocyanins, contributing to its diverse medicinal benefits. Each part of the plant—root, bark, flowers, and seeds—harbors unique chemical constituents that underscore its multifunctional use in traditional healing practices. This rich phytochemical diversity not only facilitates various health applications but also supports the scientific validation of its traditional medicinal claims.
Traditional and Medicinal Uses
Ashoka has been utilized extensively in Ayurveda for treating a variety of conditions, particularly those affecting women’s health. It has a well-established role in managing menstrual disorders, such as excessive bleeding and dysmenorrhea. Traditional practices often incorporate Ashoka bark in concoctions, highlighting its effectiveness in alleviating symptoms associated with gynecological issues. Beyond gynecological uses, Asoka is indicated for various ailments including gastrointestinal disturbances, urinary issues, and skin diseases, reflecting its broad applicability in traditional medicine. It is also noted for its capabilities to enhance overall reproductive health and act as a uterine tonic, especially during pregnancy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Saraca asoca stands out as a versatile and invaluable plant in both traditional and modern medicinal practices. Its longstanding history in Ayurveda as a treatment for various ailments is supported by accumulating scientific evidence attesting to its pharmacological efficacy. With significant anti-cancer, antimicrobial, and anti-gynecological properties, it provides a promising avenue for further research. The combination of its rich phytochemical profile and wide range of therapeutic applications emphasizes the necessity for additional clinical studies to fully explore and validate the medicinal potential of this ancient healing tree, establishing it as a standardized therapeutic agent in modern medicine.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Saraca asoca (ashoka)”. 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) Activity:
Refers to the specific medicinal functions and effects of Saraca asoca within the context of pharmacological research. It indicates the various biological effects, such as anti-cancer or anti-diabetic properties, that the plant exhibits, showcasing its potential therapeutic benefits in treating numerous conditions.
2) Ashoka (Asoka):
An alternative spelling of Asoka, this term highlights the same cultural and medicinal significance of the Saraca asoca tree in India. It reinforces the tree's prominence in Ayurveda, folklore, and traditional healing practices, particularly for women's health-related disorders.
3) Medicine:
This term encompasses the comprehensive field that studies the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases, and symbolizes the traditional use of plants like Saraca asoca in herbal therapies within Ayurveda to address various medical and health issues.
4) Saraca asoca:
The botanical name of the Ashoka tree, recognized for its diverse medicinal applications. This plant serves as a key focus in the review for its therapeutic benefits, phytochemical constituents, and variety of pharmacological activities that contribute to the treatment of ailments.
5) India:
The geographic and cultural origin of Saraca asoca. India is a rich tapestry of diverse plants and traditional practices such as Ayurveda, within which this tree holds significant importance due to its medicinal uses and symbolic relevance in various cultural narratives.
6) Tree:
Refers to Saraca asoca, an evergreen species that grows in various regions of India. Its classification as a tree denotes its ecological significance while emphasizing its importance in traditional medicine and cultural practices, particularly in the context of Ayurveda.
7) Drug:
In this context, a drug signifies any substance used for medical treatment, including herbal extracts derived from Saraca asoca. This highlights the dual role of natural products as both traditional remedies and candidates for modern pharmaceuticals.
8) Pharmacological:
This term relates to the study of the effects and mechanisms of drugs, underscoring the scientific investigation of Saraca asoca's biological activities. It involves understanding how the plant's extracts interact within the body to produce therapeutic effects.
9) Disease:
Refers to any disruption of normal bodily functions that Saraca asoca may help treat. The tree's medicinal properties are explored in relation to various diseases, emphasizing its potential as a natural remedy in traditional and modern medicine.
10) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
An ancient system of medicine originating in India that emphasizes balance in bodily systems through herbal treatments, encompassing the use of plants like Saraca asoca. It reflects a holistic approach to health and the prevention of diseases.
11) Flavonoid:
A class of phytonutrients found in Saraca asoca and many other plants, known for their antioxidant properties. Flavonoids contribute to the health benefits attributed to the plant and play a significant role in its pharmacological efficacy.
12) Solapur:
Referring to the location associated with Rasika Vilas Kulkarni and the D. S. T. S Mandal’s College of Pharmacy. This region serves as a significant site of research focusing on the medicinal uses of plants like Saraca asoca within Ayurveda.
13) Manure:
A natural fertilizer derived from organic sources that enhance soil fertility, important for cultivating medicinal plants like Saraca asoca. Its use ensures sustainable agricultural practices while promoting the effective growth of this medicinal species.
14) Kapha:
In Ayurvedic medicine, Kapha is one of the three doshas representing the elements of earth and water. It embodies the principles of stability and moisture, playing a crucial role in maintaining health balance and influencing the treatment strategies employed using Saraca asoca.
15) Water:
Essential for the growth of Saraca asoca and for sustaining agricultural practices. It is also a crucial component in herbal decoctions, often used in the preparation of traditional remedies for various ailments, highlighting its pivotal role in holistic healing.
16) Phytochemical:
Natural compounds found in plants like Saraca asoca that contribute to their therapeutic properties. Identifying these phytochemicals is vital for understanding the medicinal value and potential health benefits of herbal remedies in traditional medicine.
17) Pesticide:
Chemical substances used to control pests that can affect plant health. The emphasis on using organic manures and bio-pesticides in the cultivation of Saraca asoca reflects a commitment to sustainable agriculture and the preservation of the plant's medicinal qualities.
18) Himalaya (Hima-alaya):
A mountain range in India where Saraca asoca is naturally found. This region's biodiversity underlines the ecological significance of the plant and its traditional uses in local medicine, as well as its cultural relevance in various Indian communities.
19) Kerala:
A state in India known for its rich heritage in Ayurveda, where Saraca asoca is commonly found. The environment of Kerala, conducive to diverse flora, enhances the relevance of traditional medicinal practices using local plants.
20) Cancer:
A critical health condition for which Saraca asoca exhibits potential anticancer properties. Research into this plant emphasizes its role in developing natural therapies against various forms of cancer, validating its traditional medicinal uses.
21) Gulma:
A term used in Ayurveda to describe a localized abdominal tumor or lump. Saraca asoca is included in treatments for this condition, showcasing its relevance in traditional practices for addressing specific health issues.
22) Study (Studying):
Refers mainly to the research and scientific investigations performed on Saraca asoca. Studies validate the traditional claims associated with the plant and highlight its pharmacological properties, contributing to a broader understanding of its therapeutic potential.
23) Beta:
This prefix often refers to one of the types of compounds identified in Saraca asoca's phytochemical composition. These compounds are pivotal to the plant's overall efficacy and are studied for their distinct therapeutic properties.
24) Pain:
A symptom that Saraca asoca aims to alleviate through its various pharmacological activities. Its use in traditional medicine underscores the importance of herbal remedies in pain management and treatment of related conditions.
25) Soil:
A critical factor for the cultivation of Saraca asoca that affects its growth, health, and medicinal properties. The nutrient composition of soil plays a significant role in determining the efficacy of the plant's therapeutic uses.
26) Kaphavata (Kapha-vata):
In Ayurveda, refers to a disorder where both Kapha and Vata doshas are imbalanced. Saraca asoca is considered beneficial in treating such conditions, highlighting its versatility in addressing various health imbalances.
27) Swelling:
A physical condition that can be addressed through the anti-inflammatory properties of Saraca asoca. Its traditional uses highlight its effectiveness in treating swelling and related conditions, underscoring its medicinal significance.
28) Sanskrit:
An ancient language of India that often contains the original texts and descriptions related to medicinal plants like Saraca asoca. Understanding Sanskrit provides insight into historical uses and cultural significance of such plants.
29) Kaphaja:
A term denoting conditions stemming from Kapha dosha imbalances in Ayurveda. Saraca asoca's therapeutic properties are linked to treating Kaphaja disorders, highlighting its relevance in achieving health balance in traditional practices.
30) Species:
Refers to Saraca asoca as a specific species within the plant kingdom. Acknowledging plant species is vital in studies of traditional medicine, ecology, and an understanding of biodiversity and its implications for medicinal research.
31) Rasika (Rashika):
The name of the author, Rasika Vilas Kulkarni, plays a significant role in the review discussing Saraca asoca. The author’s expertise adds authority and authenticity to the exploration of the tree’s medicinal uses and benefits.
32) Bengal (Bemgal):
A region in India where Saraca asoca is found naturally. Its location highlights the diversity of ecosystems that support various medicinal plants and the cultural traditions associated with herbal medicine in this area.
33) Mandal:
Refers to the D. S. T. S Mandal’s College of Pharmacy where research on Saraca asoca was conducted. This institution contributes to the academic and practical understanding of traditional medicine, emphasizing the importance of educational efforts in herbal studies.
34) Medium:
Describes the size of Saraca asoca, classified as a medium-sized tree. This characterization influences both ecological considerations and cultivation practices, especially in maintaining biodiversity and utilizing available spaces for medicinal plants.
35) Indian:
Relates to the origin of Saraca asoca as a native plant in India, shaping its significance within traditional medicine, cultural practices, and emphasizing its integration into the health systems like Ayurveda that originated in this region.
36) Edema (Oedema):
Swelling caused by fluid retention, which Saraca asoca may help alleviate through its medicinal properties. The plant is noted for treating conditions like edema, underscoring its role in traditional remedies for fluid-related issues.
37) Fever:
Refers to an elevated body temperature often treated in traditional medicine using Saraca asoca. Its effectiveness in managing fever highlights its role in holistic health practices within Ayurveda, addressing various symptoms associated with illness.
38) Roga:
A Sanskrit term meaning disease or disorder, often used in Ayurvedic texts to refer to conditions treated with herbs like Saraca asoca. Understanding 'roga' offers insight into traditional classifications of health ailments within this holistic framework.
39) Vata:
In Ayurveda, Vata is one of the three doshas associated with air and movement. Maintaining Vata balance is essential for overall health, and Saraca asoca is utilized in herbal treatments to address Vata imbalances and related disorders.
40) Vila:
A variation of the name Rasika or possibly a typo; lacks specific context in relation to Saraca asoca but might refer to aspects of cultural or personal significance related to the author or traditional practices.
41) Crop:
Denotes Saraca asoca's cultivation as a valuable agricultural product. Understanding its cultivation methods emphasizes the intersection of agriculture and traditional medicine, showcasing efforts to sustainably grow herbal plants for therapeutic use.
42) Milk:
An important component in traditional preparations involving Saraca asoca, used in decoctions and medicinal formulations. Milk serves as a base for remedies that enhance absorption and effectiveness of the therapeutic properties of the plant.
43) Burning sensation:
A symptom that Saraca asoca is used to address in traditional medicine, particularly in gastrointestinal and urinary disorders. Its use highlights the plant's efficacy in alleviating uncomfortable sensations associated with specific health conditions.
44) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
A term synonymous with anti-bacterial, referring to the properties of Saraca asoca that fight bacterial infections. Such properties underline the plant's significance in both traditional and modern medical practices for infection treatment.
45) Dysmenorrhea (Dysmenorrhoea):
An alternative spelling of dysmenorrhoea, this term signifies the same painful menstrual condition. Usage of Saraca asoca for treatment of dysmenorrhea highlights its role in relieving menstrual pain through traditional medicine practices.
46) Anganapriya (Angana-priya):
One of the Sanskrit names for the Ashoka tree, highlighting its significance and relevance in cultural and medicinal narratives within India. This name often encompasses the plant’s utility in Ayurvedic practices.
47) Udararoga (Udara-roga):
A term in Ayurveda used to refer to abdominal disorders. Saraca asoca may be included in treatments addressing these conditions, demonstrating its utility in managing digestive and abdominal health issues.
48) Siddhartha (Siddha-artha):
Refers to Gautama Buddha, said to have been born under the Ashoka tree, intertwining the tree's cultural and spiritual significance with its medicinal properties, thus enriching its historical narratives.
49) Science (Scientific):
Refers to the systematic investigation and experimentation associated with the study of Saraca asoca. Scientific validation of the plant’s traditional uses paves the way for its acceptance in modern medicine and pharmacology.
50) Yoniroga (Yoni-roga):
A term in Ayurveda referring to female reproductive system disorders. Saraca asoca is commonly used for managing various yoni-roga, emphasizing its significance in addressing women's health issues in traditional medicine.
51) Mythology:
Refers to the stories and legends surrounding the Ashoka tree, contributing to its cultural significance. Mythology enriches the understanding of the tree in Indian tradition, intertwining it with themes of love and healing.
52) Vitiation (Vitiated):
In Ayurvedic context, vitiation refers to the disturbance of dosha balance leading to health issues. Saraca asoca is utilized to restore balance, highlighting its role in holistic health management.
53) Affection:
In this context, affection might refer to the relationship between traditional medicine and its practitioners or users. Saraca asoca's cultural significance showcases the emotional and spiritual connections within practices.
54) Vibandha:
A Sanskrit term signifying constipation caused by vata dosha imbalance. Saraca asoca is incorporated in treatments addressing vibandha, demonstrating its relevance in managing digestive health conditions.
55) Kamadeva (Kama-deva):
The Hindu god of love linked to the Ashoka tree. This association emphasizes the tree's cultural significance in Indian mythology, further enriching its status within traditional medicine and practices.
56) Assamese:
Refers to the language spoken in Assam, India, highlighting the cultural diversity surrounding the Ashoka tree. Its various names across languages reflect the localized significance of Saraca asoca within different Indian regions.
57) Toxicity:
A relevant concern in understanding the safety and effects of medicinal plants. The exploration of Saraca asoca includes assessments of its safety, toxicity, and appropriate use within traditional remedies.
58) Palakkad:
A district in Kerala, India, where Saraca asoca commonly grows. Its geographical mention attests to the plant's regional importance and its integration into local traditions of medicinal practice.
59) Language:
Refers to the various dialects and scripts that describe the uses and significance of Saraca asoca across India. Language plays a crucial role in documenting traditional knowledge and practices associated with this plant.
60) Bleeding:
A condition related to heavy menstrual flow, which Saraca asoca is noted to treat. Its effectiveness in managing bleeding illustrates its importance in addressing women's reproductive health issues within Ayurveda.
61) Seedling:
Refers to young plants that are grown from seeds, highlighting the cultivation methods of Saraca asoca. Proper seedling management is essential for sustainable agriculture and the continued availability of this important medicinal resource.
62) Grafting:
A horticultural technique used to propagate Saraca asoca effectively. Grafting enables better yield and disease resistance, ensuring that this medicinal plant can be cultivated sustainably for various uses.
63) Buddhism (Buddhist tradition):
Refers to the religion founded by Gautama Siddhartha, symbolically connected to the Ashoka tree. The plant’s association with Buddhism enriches its cultural and spiritual relevance in various traditions.
64) Gautama:
Refers to Gautama Buddha, who is believed to have been born under the Ashoka tree, thus linking the plant with his life and teachings, enhancing its spiritual and cultural significance within Indian heritage.
65) Pradara:
An Ayurvedic term for abnormal vaginal discharge or menstrual disorders that Saraca asoca is traditionally used to treat. This emphasizes the plant's relevance in addressing specific women's health issues.
66) Kannada:
The language spoken in the Karnataka region, signifying the cultural diversity surrounding Saraca asoca. The plant’s various vernacular names across Indian languages reflect its widespread recognition and local medicinal usage.
67) Bengali:
Refers to the language and culture of the Bengal region where Saraca asoca is acknowledged and utilized. This highlights the regional diversity in understanding and utilizing the medicinal properties of the plant.
68) Raising:
Relates to the cultivation and management practices associated with Saraca asoca, emphasizing the agricultural aspects of growing medicinal plants for sustainable health practices.
69) Account:
Refers to the documentation of traditional uses and properties of Saraca asoca. Detailed accounts are essential for further research and validation of the plant's medicinal claims and benefits.
70) Burning (Burn, Burned, Burnt):
Often refers to sensations experienced in conditions treated by Saraca asoca, such as gastrointestinal disorders. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for recognizing the therapeutic relevance of the plant.
71) Ghrita (Ghrta):
A medicated ghee used in Ayurvedic formulations that may include Saraca asoca. Its use signifies the integration of this plant into traditional remedies aimed at enhancing health and managing specific ailments.
72) Kushtha (Kustha):
A Sanskrit term for skin diseases, indicating another area where Saraca asoca may exhibit medicinal properties. Its applications in treating such conditions emphasize the plant’s multifaceted role in traditional medicine.
73) Forest:
Refers to the natural habitats where Saraca asoca grows, highlighting the ecological importance of preserving these environments for biodiversity and the sustainable sourcing of medicinal plants.
74) Family:
In botanical classification, refers to the Caesalpinaceae family to which Saraca asoca belongs. Understanding its family helps in recognizing the plant's characteristics and potential medicinal properties inherent to related species.
75) Thirst:
A condition associated with dehydration that may be alleviated through the use of various herbal remedies. Although not directly related to Saraca asoca, understanding thirst provides context within broader traditional health practices addressing hydration.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 91]
Other Science Concepts:
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Saraca asoca, Sanskrit word, Ayurveda system, Medical application, Herbal medicine, Cultivation practice, Parts used, Urinary system, Anti-inflammatory activity, Pharmacological activities, Pharmacognostic study, Cardioprotective activity, Biological Activity, Clinical research, Anti-hyperglycemic activity, Traditional medicinal purposes, Universal panacea, Organic manure, Folk remedies, Phytochemical constituent.
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