Literary and therapeutic review of sharpunkha (tephrosa purpurea)
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Literary and therapeutic review of sharpunkha (tephrosa purpurea)
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.
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Bhavana Madhusudan Upadhyay, Aarti Sharma, Prof. Kamini Kaushal and Dr. Ashwini Kumar Sharma
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
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Full text available for: Literary and therapeutic review of sharpunkha (tephrosa purpurea)
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20207-17983
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Summary of article contents:
INTRODUCTION
Sharpunkha, scientifically known as Tephrosa purpurea, is an annual herb from the Fabaceae family and is recognized for its medicinal properties in Ayurveda. Commonly found across various regions of India, it is known for its therapeutic benefits, particularly concerning conditions like spleenomegaly and liver disorders. The herb derives its name from its leaf structure, resembling an arrow's fletching, and has a long history of traditional use in treating various ailments, including impotency, asthma, and rheumatism.
ANTIULCER AND ANTI-INFLAMMATORY PROPERTIES
One significant aspect of Sharpunkha is its pharmacological activity linked to antiulcer and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that compounds found in T. purpurea, such as tephrosin, pongaglabol, and semiglabrin, contribute to its effectiveness against ulcers and inflammation. This makes the herb a valuable asset in both traditional medicine and modern pharmacological applications, particularly for conditions involving tissue damage and inflammation, where it can aid in recovery and healing.
THERAPEUTIC USES IN AYURVEDA
Sharpunkha is notably employed in Ayurveda for its ability to address various health issues, primarily spleenomegaly (Pleeho-dara) and liver conditions. It is traditionally administered in the form of paste, juice, or as part of herbal preparations mixed with buttermilk or honey, reflecting its versatility. The roots of the plant are often used for topical and internal applications to enhance wound healing and relieve digestive and respiratory disorders. The herb’s multifaceted therapeutic indications highlight its role as a holistic remedy.
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION AND ACTIVE INGREDIENTS
The roots and leaves of Sharpunkha contain a rich chemical composition, including vital compounds like qercetin, rutin, and beta-sitosterol. These compounds are responsible for the herb's various health benefits, including its antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and antimicrobial properties. The synergistic effects of these ingredients make Sharpunkha not only beneficial for traditional ailments but also prime candidates for research into newer treatments for diseases, including cancers and liver dysfunction.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, Sharpunkha (Tephrosa purpurea) serves as a potent herbal remedy with a multitude of applications in Ayurvedic medicine. Its unique properties, stemming from both its phytochemical composition and therapeutic actions, make it effective against several health conditions, particularly related to the liver and spleen. The herb exemplifies the intersection of traditional wisdom and contemporary research, underscoring its potential in the development of new therapeutic agents while also enriching holistic healing practices.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Sharpunkha and its botanical name?
Sharpunkha, belonging to the Fabaceae family, is an annual herb. Its botanical name is Tephrosa purpurea, known for its medicinal properties, particularly on the spleen.
What are the traditional uses of Sharpunkha?
Traditionally, Sharpunkha is used for treating various conditions, including liver cirrhosis, spleenomegaly, impotency, asthma, and wound healing. It is also involved in preparations for liver disorders.
In what forms can Sharpunkha be administered?
Sharpunkha can be taken in multiple forms, including root paste, juice, powder, and decoctions. Dosages typically vary from 3-5 grams for powdered forms to 50-100 ml for decoctions.
What are the therapeutic effects of Sharpunkha?
Sharpunkha exhibits numerous therapeutic effects such as anti-inflammatory, antiulcer, antimicrobial, and hepatoprotective properties. It is particularly beneficial for spleen and liver-related disorders.
What are the key active compounds in Sharpunkha?
Active compounds in Sharpunkha include tephrostachin, quercetin, rutin, and β-sitosterol, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities, enhancing its therapeutic potential.
How does Sharpunkha contribute to overall health?
Sharpunkha helps to detoxify the body, supports digestion, and enhances immune function. Its multifaceted actions promote health across various systems, making it a valuable herbal remedy.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Literary and therapeutic review of sharpunkha (tephrosa purpurea)”. 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) Nighantu (Nighamtu):
Nighantu refers to a glossary or compendium of medicinal plants and their properties, commonly found in Ayurvedic texts. It is crucial for practitioners to reference Nighantus for accurate identification, classification, and therapeutic uses of herbs, ensuring the effective practice of traditional medicine.
2) Bhavana (Bha-vana):
Bhavana, meaning 'cultivation' or 'enhancement', is a process in Ayurvedic preparation that involves special methods to enhance the medicinal properties of drugs. It transforms the potency of a substance, making it more effective and bioavailable, thus playing a vital role in Ayurvedic practices.
3) Arrow:
The term 'arrow' is metaphorically linked to the herb Sharpunkha, which describes the shape of its leaflets when cut. This resemblance emphasizes the significance of morphology in identifying and naming plants, underlining the importance of botanical characteristics in traditional medicine.
4) Activity:
In the context of herbal medicine, 'activity' refers to the biological effects or therapeutic effects produced by a substance, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and wound healing. Understanding the activity of herbal components is essential for effective treatment planning in Ayurvedic practice.
5) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa denotes the taste or flavor of a substance, which determines its therapeutic action in Ayurveda. It is fundamental to categorizing medicinal plants, as different Rasas (sweet, bitter, etc.) have varying effects on bodily doshas, guiding treatment prescriptions.
6) Table:
Tables in research documents present organized data clearly and efficiently, detailing characteristics like synonyms, vernacular names, and pharmacological actions of herbal plants. They facilitate easy comparisons across variables, making complex information accessible to practitioners and researchers.
7) Guna:
Guna refers to the qualitative properties of substances in Ayurveda, such as lightness, dryness, or oiliness. These qualities influence how herbs interact with the body's constitution and help practitioners determine suitability for individual patients in treatment plans.
8) Varga:
Varga signifies a category or classification in Ayurvedic texts, often grouping similar herbs or conditions together. This classification aids practitioners in identifying appropriate treatments, facilitating efficient herbal medicine practice by creating a structured approach to plant-based therapies.
9) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine, focuses on balance within the body, promoting health through natural remedies, lifestyle modifications, and holistic practices. Its principles are foundational in understanding medicinal plants, treatments, and human physiology.
10) Dravya:
Dravya translates to 'substance' and encompasses all material forms, especially those used in medicinal formulations. In Ayurveda, it highlights the importance of understanding each substance's properties and interactions in developing effective therapeutic strategies.
11) Punkha (Pumkha):
Punkha refers to 'feather' or 'point' and is relevant in the naming of plants like Sharpunkha. This etymology illustrates the significance of morphology in traditional medicine and the descriptive nature of plant naming based on physical attributes.
12) Family:
In botanical classification, 'family' categorizes plants sharing common characteristics. The Fabaceae family, for instance, includes Sharpunkha, indicating shared traits that can provide insights into the plant's uses, effects, and potential therapeutic applications.
13) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma is a common surname in India, often associated with scholars and practitioners, particularly in Ayurveda. Authors like Aarti Sharma contribute to the richness of Ayurvedic literature, ensuring the knowledge is preserved and propagated through scholarly work.
14) Tikta:
Tikta means 'bitter' and is one of the six tastes recognized in Ayurveda. It plays a critical role in enhancing digestion and detoxifying the body, directing the therapeutic use of certain plants that possess bitter characteristics for health benefits.
15) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological refers to the study of drugs and their effects on biological systems. Understanding pharmacological properties of herbal medicines aids in validating their traditional uses and exploring new therapeutic potentials within modern scientific frameworks.
16) Dravyaguna (Dravya-guna):
Dravyaguna is an Ayurvedic branch focused on studying the properties of various substances, especially herbs. It combines traditional knowledge with herbal pharmacology, guiding practitioners in utilizing plants effectively to address various health conditions.
17) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are plant compounds known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Their presence in herbal medicines emphasizes the biochemical basis for therapeutic effects, supporting the traditional uses of plants like Sharpunkha in modern medicine.
18) Udaipur (Udaypur):
Udaipur is a city in Rajasthan, India, home to institutions like MMM Govt. Ayurveda College, where studies on plants such as Sharpunkha are conducted. Its geographical context can affect herbal access and traditional practices.
19) Kapha:
Kapha represents one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, associated with the elements of water and earth. Understanding Kapha helps practitioners balance bodily conditions, especially when treating diseases related to this dosha using specific herbs.
20) Study (Studying):
Study refers to the systematic examination and analysis of a subject. In herbal medicine, conducting studies validates traditional knowledge, providing evidence-based understanding of plants’ therapeutic roles and guiding practitioners in treatment decisions.
21) Nili:
Neeli denotes plants that resemble the Indigofera genus, pertinent in distinguishing Sharpunkha. Such associations in naming highlight the importance of morphological characteristics in plant identification, assisting practitioners in selecting appropriate medicines.
22) Roga:
Roga translates to 'disease' in Ayurveda. Understanding various Rogas is crucial for diagnosing and treating conditions effectively, guiding the choice of herbal therapies based on specific symptoms and underlying imbalances within the body.
23) Katu:
Katu means 'pungent' and is one of the six tastes in Ayurveda. It contributes to stimulating digestion and metabolism, serving to balance specific doshas and providing insight into the therapeutic uses of plants possessing this taste.
24) Gana:
Ganas refers to classifications or divisions of herbal plants in Ayurvedic texts. Such categorizations assist practitioners in identifying and using the correct plants for therapeutic purposes based on established traditional knowledge.
25) Drug:
Drugs, in a broader context, denote substances used historically and in modern practice for therapeutic purposes. Understanding the historical and contemporary usage of drugs enables practitioners to align traditional wisdom with scientific advancements.
26) Sitapunkha (Sita-punkha):
Sitapunkha denotes the white variety of Sharpunkha, recognized for its therapeutic efficacy. The differentiation between varieties illustrates the complexity of plant characteristics in Ayurvedic pharmacology and their diverse applications in treatment.
27) Butter milk (Buttermilk):
Buttermilk is a traditional food ingredient used in Ayurvedic preparations, believed to enhance the therapeutic action of herbs. Its inclusion in remedies reflects Ayurveda’s holistic approach, integrating dietary elements with herbal treatments for better health outcomes.
28) Science (Scientific):
Scientific refers to the systematic study and validation of knowledge. In the context of herbal medicine, scientific research is essential for substantiating traditional practices and ensuring herbs’ safety and efficacy in modern healthcare.
29) Kasaghna (Kasa-ghna):
Kasaghna describes substances or treatments that alleviate cough conditions. Identifying herbs with Kasaghna properties demonstrates the targeted therapeutic applications in Ayurveda, guiding practitioners in selecting remedies for respiratory issues.
30) Medicine:
Medicines encompass a wide variety of substances used to maintain health and treat diseases. Understanding both traditional and modern perspectives on medicines fosters comprehensive treatment approaches in Ayurvedic and allopathic practices.
31) Samhita:
Samhitas are foundational texts in Ayurveda, compiling extensive knowledge on medicinal practices, philosophy, and therapeutic methods. They serve as crucial references for practitioners, ensuring the continuity and credibility of Ayurvedic traditions.
32) Kashaya (Kasaya):
Kashaya means 'astringent' in Ayurveda, one of the six tastes. Its cooling and drying properties are used to balance Kapha and Pitta, guiding the selection of plants with Kashaya properties for specific conditions.
33) Species:
Species refers to a group of organisms capable of interbreeding. In botanical studies, identifying plant species like Sharpunkha ensures accurate classification and application in herbal medicine, impacting effectiveness and safety of treatments.
34) Ruksha (Ruksa):
Ruksha means 'dry' in Ayurveda, describing the quality of certain substances. Understanding Ruksha properties is critical when selecting herbs for treatments, particularly when addressing conditions involving excess moisture or phlegm in the body.
35) Vipaka:
Vipaka signifies the post-digestive effect of substances. It complements Rasa and Guna in determining how a herb interacts with the body, providing practitioners essential insights for tailoring treatments according to individual needs.
36) Karma (Karman):
Karma in this context means the action or effect a drug has on the body. It is a key aspect in Ayurveda to evaluate the therapeutic potential of herbs and their suitability for specific conditions.
37) Gulma:
Gulma denotes a term in Ayurveda referring to abdominal masses. Herbal remedies targeting Gulma illustrate the specificity of Ayurvedic practices towards addressing various bodily imbalances and the diseases stemming from them.
38) Laghu:
Laghu refers to 'lightness' in Ayurvedic properties. It helps determine the effects of medicinal substances, suggesting suitability for treatments addressing Kapha and Pitta imbalances, particularly for digestive health and weight management.
39) Taila (Thaila):
Taila means 'oil' in Ayurveda, used for therapeutic applications in treatments. Oil acts as a vehicle for delivering herbal properties, enhancing their absorption and effectiveness in a variety of healing practices.
40) Ushna (Usna):
Ushna translates to 'hot' and represents a quality in Ayurvedic properties. Understanding Ushna helps practitioners select herbs that induce warmth, beneficial for particular conditions related to cold or dampness in the body.
41) Vrana:
Vrana means 'wound' and is relevant in Ayurvedic studies regarding healing processes. Concepts surrounding Vrana emphasize the use of specific herbs that aid healing, showcasing a practical aspect of applying herbal remedies for injury care.
42) Water:
Water serves as a fundamental element in Ayurvedic medicine, utilized in preparation of herbal remedies and as an essential aspect of human physiology. Understanding its role is crucial to balance bodily functions and enhance the efficacy of treatments.
43) Hindi (Himdi):
Hindi is one of the primary languages spoken in India, where Ayurveda is practiced. The use of Hindi in herbal medicine literature makes Ayurvedic knowledge accessible to a broader audience, promoting the understanding of traditional practices.
44) Kasa (Kasha):
Kasa signifies cough in Ayurveda, with various herbs possessing properties that target respiratory issues. Recognizing suitable plants to alleviate Kasa demonstrates Ayurveda's approach in interconnectedness between symptoms and targeted herbal treatments.
45) Fish poison (Fish venom):
Fish poison refers to the traditional use of specific plants, such as Tephrosia purpurea, as piscicides. Understanding this aspect highlights the diverse applications of plants beyond medicinal uses, emphasizing their ecological significance.
46) Shatahvadivarga (Satahvadivarga, Shatahvadi-varga):
Shatahvadi-varga refers to a classification of plants in Ayurvedic texts. This categorization aids practitioners in using traditional knowledge effectively, ensuring appropriate selections of plants for treating specific health conditions and systemic issues.
47) Mudhagarbha (Mudha-garbha):
Mudhagarbha refers to the threat of malformation or complications in the fetus. Understanding this term underlines the significance of herbal interventions in prenatal care, emphasizing preventive measures through natural remedies.
48) Kandapunkha (Kanda-punkha):
Kanda-punkha relates to an identification based on morphology. Such terminology enhances understanding of plant features within traditional texts, guiding practitioners in recognizing and utilizing the correct species in therapeutic contexts.
49) Shubhrapunkha (Subhrapunkha, Shubhra-punkha):
Subhrapunkha refers to the 'beautiful leaf’ variety associated with the herb. Such descriptive terms aid in differentiating among variants of medicinal plants, ensuring practitioners utilize the appropriate form for treatment.
50) Ishupunkhika (Isupunkhika, Ishu-punkhika):
Isupunkhika is another term for Sharpunkha, reflecting its characteristics. Such synonyms illustrate the descriptive nature of plant names in Ayurveda and help in quickly identifying the medicinal uses of the plant.
51) Banapunkha (Bana-punkha):
Bana-punkha signifies the plant's morphology. Classifying plants based on their features allows practitioners to accurately identify and utilize the correct species in therapies, ensuring effective treatment outcomes.
52) Controversy:
Controversy in Ayurveda often arises from differing opinions on plant identification or therapeutic efficacy. Discussing these discrepancies highlights the need for rigorous botanical studies to standardize herbal practices and ensure safe, effective treatments.
53) Sharapunkha (Sarapunkha, Shara-punkha):
Sarapunkha relates to Sharpunkha and its properties. This term connects classical Ayurvedic texts with modern applications of herbal medicine, illustrating the continuity of knowledge and practices over time.
54) Ishupunkha (Isupunkha, Ishu-punkha):
Isupunkha denotes a synonym for Sharpunkha, emphasizing its distinctive leaf structure. Such names enhance identification accuracy, aiding practitioners in selecting the right herbal medicine for patient care.
55) Shatahvadi (Satahvadi, Shatahva-adi):
Shatahvadi indicates a classification in Ayurvedic texts that addresses various therapeutic properties of plants. Such categorizations assist practitioners in applying traditional remedies effectively based on well-established classifications.
56) Rajasthani:
Rajasthani signifies a native or resident of Rajasthan, India. The strong cultural ties to medicinal plants in Rajasthan highlight the relevance of traditional knowledge, ensuring the preservation and dissemination of Ayurvedic practices within local communities.
57) Plihashatru (Plihasatru):
Plihasatru indicates a term that refers to the herb's effectiveness against spleen disorders. Such specific terminology is vital in Ayurvedic literature, guiding practitioners in selecting herbs based on their therapeutic indications.
58) Dhanvamtri (Dhanvantri):
Dhanvantri is a significant deity in Ayurveda known as the god of medicine. Reverence for Dhanvantri underscores the divine origins of medicinal practices and the holistic approach to health celebrated in Ayurvedic traditions.
59) Discussion:
Discussion is crucial for synthesizing ideas, findings, and diverse viewpoints in scholarly research. It allows practitioners and scholars to collaborate, share insights, and refine methodologies for effective use of herbal medicine.
60) Snake-bite:
Snake-bite refers to the critical medical condition caused by venomous snakes. Understanding herbal properties that counteract snake venom is essential for emergency treatments, showcasing the importance of traditional remedies in life-threatening situations.
61) Vishaghna (Visaghna, Visha-ghna):
Vishaghna describes agents known for their antidotal effects against poisons. Identifying plants with Vishaghna properties highlights their critical role in traditional practices for managing toxicological emergencies and demonstrates the breadth of herbal applications.
62) Vishapaha (Visapaha, Visha-apaha):
Vishapaha refers to agents that alleviate poison-related conditions, particularly in the context of bites from venomous creatures. Understanding such properties is vital for developing effective antidotes using herbal medicine.
63) Aparajita:
Aparajita typically relates to a group of plants with remarkable characteristics. Recognizing such classifications helps in understanding plant dynamics and utilizing herbal remedies effectively within ethical and ecological contexts in Ayurveda.
64) Dantaroga:
Dantaroga signifies dental diseases in Ayurveda. Understanding Dantaroga underscores the importance of herbal strategies for maintaining oral health and highlights plants specifically effective in treating dental issues.
65) Shvetadhya (Shveta-adhya, Svetadhya):
Svetadhya refers to the white variety of Sharpunkha and highlights the importance of color in plant classification. Distinguishing between varieties ensures accurate application of herbal remedies based on their unique properties.
66) Haritaki:
Haritaki is a medicinal herb commonly used in Ayurveda, associated with digestive health and detoxification. Its inclusion in formulations exemplifies the innovative use of traditional plants for comprehensive health benefits.
67) Prabhava:
Prabhava refers to the special action or unique effect a substance produces beyond its traditional properties. Recognizing Prabhava is crucial for understanding the multifaceted therapeutic potential of herbs in Ayurveda.
68) Kalashaka (Kalasaka, Kala-shaka):
Kalasaka denotes a term associated with certain herbal properties or effects. Recognizing such terms helps practitioners understand plant interactions in treatment, guiding effective integration of multiple herbs within herbal remedies.
69) Bleeding:
Bleeding refers to the loss of blood from the circulatory system, a critical health concern. Understanding herbal properties to manage bleeding disorders reflects the traditional medicinal approaches to address life-threatening conditions effectively.
70) Crushing:
Crushing is a method used to prepare herbal medicines for enhanced potency and bioavailability. The process illustrates the importance of preparation techniques in maximizing the therapeutic benefits of medicinal plants.
71) Sanskrit:
Sanskrit is the ancient language in which many Ayurvedic texts are written. Understanding Sanskrit allows practitioners to engage with original texts, preserving and transmitting traditional medicinal knowledge across generations.
72) Shri-lanka (Srilanka, Sri-lanka, Shrilanka):
Srilanka's geographical proximity to India enriches its Ayurvedic traditions. The interconnectedness enhances the understanding of medicinal plants and fosters shared knowledge, underpinning the and cultural relevance of herbal remedies.
73) Vijnana:
Vijnana means 'knowledge', particularly in the context of scientific or philosophical inquiries. In Ayurveda, Vijnana encompasses the understanding of herbal properties, promoting informed practices based on observational studies and empirical evidence.
74) Grahani:
Grahani refers to a condition affecting digestion and absorption in Ayurveda. Recognizing Grahani in clinical practice illustrates the importance of targeting digestive health through appropriate herbal applications for effective treatment.
75) Marathi:
Marathi is a regional language in India, significant for documenting Ayurvedic practices. Utilizing Marathi in literature expands the reach of traditional knowledge, enabling greater access for local communities seeking effective healthcare solutions.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 118]
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Literary and therapeutic review of sharpunkha (tephrosa purpurea)’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Ayurveda, Herbal medicine, Therapeutic use, Rasa-panchaka, Pharmacological activity, Traditional use, Liver Cirrhosis, Classical text, Pharmacological studies, Spleenomegaly, Medicinal application, Active compound, Formulation.
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