Therapeutic review of nirgundi
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Therapeutic review of nirgundi
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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Dr. Priya Mourya and Dr. Shiromani Mishra
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Therapeutic review of nirgundi
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr202217-26582
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Nirgundi, scientifically known as Vitex negundo Linn, is a prominent therapeutic plant in traditional Indian medicine, particularly within Ayurveda. This aromatic shrub, which thrives in various regions across India, has a rich history of medicinal application for numerous health conditions. Renowned for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, Nirgundi is utilized in a variety of traditional practices, aiming to restore the body’s natural equilibrium rather than merely alleviating symptoms. The review discusses its diverse therapeutic utilities primarily referenced in classical texts like Caraka Samhita and Susrutha Samhita.
Therapeutic Actions of Nirgundi
Nirgundi is well-documented for its vast therapeutic effects, stemming from its diverse chemical composition. Key constituents identified include essential oils, flavonoids, and several glycosides, which contribute to its healing properties. In Ayurvedic formulations, Nirgundi has been classified as a krimighna drug, which is effective against parasitic infections and offers protection against toxins. Its applications range from treating joint disorders and gynecological issues to being a remedy for conditions like malaria. These diverse therapeutic actions establish Nirgundi as a versatile herb in holistic medicine.
Mythological Significance of Nirgundi
The cultural and mythological significance of Nirgundi underscores its revered status in Indian traditions. Believed to have originated from the abdomen of Lord Ganesha, it holds a sacred place in rituals, particularly in offerings to deities like Lord Shiva and Gouri during specific observances. This spiritual connection enhances the plant's importance beyond its medicinal uses, linking it to veneration and respect within various Indian communities. Such mythological narratives enrich the understanding of Nirgundi's role in cultural practices and highlight the integral relationship between nature and spirituality in traditional medicine.
Morphology and Use in Pharmacology
Nirgundi is characterized as a large shrub, notable for its aromatic qualities and distinctive morphology, including its serrated leaf structure and blue-purple flowers. The plant’s various parts, including leaves, bark, and roots, are utilized for different therapeutic purposes, aligning with its classification in traditional texts. The detailed descriptions found in classical Ayurvedic literature, such as the forms of administration for specific conditions, illustrate its importance in therapeutic protocols. The morphological attributes serve not just scientific interest, but also practical applications in herbal medicine and pharmacological formulations.
Conclusion
In summary, Nirgundi (Vitex negundo Linn) represents a significant herbal resource in traditional Indian medicine, offering both extensive therapeutic benefits and cultural importance. Its recognized efficacy in treating various ailments is backed by a foundation of traditional knowledge combined with emerging evidence of active compounds. The call for cultivating Nirgundi in local environments emphasizes its potential for contemporary and future medicinal practices, thereby ensuring that both traditional wisdom and modern health needs are harmoniously addressed. This holistic approach can foster greater appreciation for herbal plants in enhancing health and well-being in society.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Nirgundi and its scientific name?
Nirgundi, scientifically known as Vitex negundo Linn, is a large aromatic shrub widely distributed in India, known for its therapeutic properties in traditional medicine.
What are the key therapeutic uses of Nirgundi?
Nirgundi is used to treat various conditions like gynecological disorders, joint pain, respiratory issues, and skin ailments, thanks to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
What are some traditional formulations containing Nirgundi?
Nirgundi is included in various formulations like Nirgundi Taila, used for skin diseases, and as part of herbal remedies for detoxification and pain relief.
What are the active chemical constituents of Nirgundi?
Nirgundi contains essential oils, flavonoids, triterpenes, and glycosides, which contribute to its therapeutic effects in traditional medicine.
How is Nirgundi used in Ayurvedic practices?
In Ayurveda, Nirgundi is used in various forms such as pastes, oils, and decoctions for both internal and external applications, targeting numerous ailments.
Why is it important to plant Nirgundi?
Planting Nirgundi is vital for preserving its medicinal properties and promoting its use in traditional medicine, benefiting both current and future generations.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Therapeutic review of nirgundi”. 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) Nirgundi (Nirgumdi):
Nirgundi, or Vitex negundo Linn., is an important medicinal plant utilized in Ayurveda and traditional medicine for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. It is renowned for treating a variety of ailments, highlighting its role in holistic healing and the restoration of health rather than just symptom relief.
2) Disease:
The term 'diseases' encompasses the various health conditions that Nirgundi is traditionally used to treat. Its applications in managing disorders from pain relief to infections exemplify its extensive utility within Ayurvedic medicine and its historical relevance in folk healing.
3) Agada:
Agada refers to a category of Ayurvedic formulations specifically designed to counteract poisons and toxins. Nirgundi, often included in Agada preparations, showcases its therapeutic potential in detoxification and combating the adverse effects of various venoms, particularly in snake bites and other poisonings.
4) Medicine:
Medicines encompass all therapeutic substances used to prevent or treat diseases. Nirgundi, recognized for its extensive applications in Ayurvedic practices, represents the intersection of traditional healing and contemporary pharmacology, affirming its position as a vital therapeutic agent.
5) Drug:
In the Ayurvedic context, 'drug' denotes the therapeutic properties of Nirgundi, classifying it as a substance used to prevent, treat, or cure diseases. Its active ingredients interact with biological systems, providing health benefits and showcasing the plant's extensive medicinal properties derived from traditional uses.
6) Sindhuvara (Sindhu-vara, Simdhuvara):
Sindhuvara, synonymous with Nirgundi, emphasizes the plant's significance in ancient texts that highlight its role in treating infections and detoxifying the body. This name underscores its therapeutic action against ailments related to fluid accumulation and emphasizes its classical medicinal applications.
7) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that promotes health and wellness through natural therapies and holistic practices. Nirgundi is extensively documented within Ayurvedic literature, illustrating its diverse applications in treatment protocols for conditions like inflammation, pain, and metabolic disorders.
8) Nighantu (Nighamtu):
Nighantu refers to an Ayurvedic pharmacological text that catalogs medicinal plants, including Nirgundi. It plays a critical role in traditional medicine by providing essential information about the properties, uses, and classifications of medicinal herbs, facilitating knowledge transfer and healing practices within Ayurveda.
9) Samhita:
Samhita indicates a compilation of Ayurvedic texts that are foundational to the practice of traditional medicine. The various references to Nirgundi in texts like Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita highlight its historical importance in the medical literature, underscoring its therapeutic significance.
10) Taila (Thaila):
Taila translates to 'oil' in Ayurvedic terminology, often used in various therapeutic applications. Nirgundi Taila, or oil prepared from Nirgundi, exemplifies its use in treatments for skin conditions, inflammation, and joint pains, showcasing its versatility and effectiveness in oil-based formulations.
11) Varga:
Varga in Ayurveda refers to a classification system for medicinal plants and their therapeutic effects. Nirgundi fits within multiple vargas, illustrating its diverse pharmacological aspects and its relevance to various health conditions treated in traditional medicine systems.
12) India:
India is the geographical and cultural origin of Ayurveda and Nirgundi. The plant has been used in traditional healing practices for centuries, reflecting the rich botanical heritage and the importance of indigenous medicinal plants in the subcontinent’s health science practices.
13) Dhanvantari (Dhanvamtari):
Dhanvantari is regarded as the god of medicine and Ayurvedic healing in Hindu mythology. His association with Nirgundi underscores the plant's sacred and medicinal status, promoting its use in rituals and traditional medicinal systems, connecting spirituality with health.
14) Krimighna (Krmighna, Krimi-ghna):
Krimighna translates to an agent that combats 'krimi' or vermin. Nirgundi is recognized for its anthelmintic properties, classifying it as a Krimighna, thus highlighting its application in traditional medicine for treating worm infestations and related disorders.
15) Patra:
Patra means 'leaf' in Sanskrit, indicating the significant use of Nirgundi's leaves in preparations. The leaves are often applied externally or infused into oils, magnifying their medicinal applications, especially for inflammatory conditions and skin disorders in Ayurveda.
16) Pana:
Pana signifies the act of drinking or consumption of liquids, often used in the context of herbal preparations. Nirgundi is commonly used in decoctions or infusions to deliver its therapeutic properties orally, becoming a vital part of traditional Ayurvedic treatments.
17) Dravyaguna (Dravya-guna):
Dravyaguna is the branch of Ayurveda that studies the properties and effects of herbal substances. This field encompasses the characteristics of Nirgundi, from its therapeutic actions to its classifications and chemical constituents, highlighting its significance in holistic health practices.
18) Sinduvara (Simduvara):
Sinduvara is often used interchangeably with Nirgundi in classical texts, indicating its significance in the Ayurvedic context. This terminology reinforces the plant’s therapeutic reputation in treating ailments, especially in ancient pharmacological discussions.
19) Aragvadha:
Aragvadha, or Cassia fistula, is another herb commonly referenced alongside Nirgundi in Ayurvedic texts. The comparison or combination of these plants in therapeutic applications emphasizes the holistic nature of Ayurvedic practice and the synergistic effects of herbal formulations.
20) Triphala (Tri-phala):
Triphala, a well-known Ayurvedic formulation, is often mixed with Nirgundi for enhanced health benefits. This combination epitomizes the holistic approach in Ayurveda, promoting digestion, detoxification, and rejuvenation, reinforcing the plant's versatility in treatment protocols.
21) Surasadi (Surasa-adi):
Surasadi refers to a group of herbal compositions in Ayurveda. Nirgundi’s inclusion in Surasadi formulations indicates its role in treating respiratory issues and its effectiveness in mitigating conditions such as cough and bronchial discomfort within traditional healing practices.
22) Candana (Camdana):
Candana, or sandalwood, represents another herbal remedy utilized in Ayurveda. Its mention alongside Nirgundi indicates potential synergistic effects seen in formulations targeting skin diseases and inflammatory conditions, emphasizing the holistic combinations prevalent in traditional medicine practices.
23) Vidanga (Vidamga):
Vidanga refers to a spice used in Ayurvedic medicine, often recognized for its digestive and anthelmintic properties. Like Nirgundi, it features in classical texts, highlighting the interconnectedness of various herbs in formulating effective treatments within the holistic approach of Ayurveda.
24) Surface:
In medicinal contexts, 'surface' pertains to the external applications of Nirgundi, such as in pastes or oils for treating skin diseases and wounds. This emphasizes the plant's dual application, showcasing its effectiveness beyond ingestion to topical medicinal use.
25) Shirisha (Sirisa, Shirisa, Sirisha):
Sirisha, or the Albizia tree, often appears alongside Nirgundi signifying the interrelations among various herbals in Ayurveda, emphasizing how combinations can enhance efficacy through traditional synergy in healing practices.
26) Ujjain:
Ujjain is a city in Madhya Pradesh, India, renowned for its ancient Ayurvedic institutions. Being the location associated with the research and practice of Nirgundi emphasizes the geographical and cultural context surrounding traditional healing practices and the preservation of Ayurvedic knowledge.
27) Pushpa (Puspa):
Pushpa refers to the flower, highlighting the importance of Nirgundi's floral parts in herbal medicine. The plant's flowers may possess distinct medicinal properties, reinforcing the practice of using whole plants in Ayurvedic formulations to achieve comprehensive therapeutic effects.
28) Gana:
Gana refers to a group of herbs classified together in Ayurveda based on shared therapeutic properties. Nirgundi’s inclusion in various Ganas showcases its shared attributes with other plants, enhancing the formulation strategies employed in traditional medicine for diverse health conditions.
29) Mahakashaya (Mahakasaya, Maha-kashaya):
Mahakashaya signifies significant herbal groups in Ayurvedic texts. Nirgundi is referenced under Mahakashaya, demonstrating its importance in complex treatments and the strategic organization of herbs based on their therapeutic roles within traditional healing practices.
30) Sutrasthana (Sutra-sthana):
Sutrasthana refers to a section of classical Ayurvedic texts that deal with essential principles. The mention of Nirgundi in Sutrasthana underscores its foundational role in Ayurvedic pharmacopeia and the systematic organization of medicinal plants and their uses.
31) Vishaghna (Visaghna, Visha-ghna):
Vishaghna denotes substances that counteract poisons. Nirgundi's classification as Vishaghna highlights its utility in treating ailments resulting from toxic exposure, emphasizing the plant's role in detoxification protocols and its historical significance in poison management.
32) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are a category of phytochemicals found in Nirgundi that contribute to its therapeutic effects. These compounds are recognized for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-modulatory properties, substantiating the plant's credibility in both traditional and modern medicinal contexts.
33) Suradaru (Sura-daru):
Suradaru is another medicinal plant referenced in Ayurvedic contexts. It may be combined with Nirgundi to enhance healing properties, reflecting the interconnectedness of various plants in formulating effective remedies in traditional medicine systems.
34) Gairika:
Gairika refers to a variety of natural substances in Ayurveda, often noted for detoxification properties. Its association with Nirgundi emphasizes the relevance of using multiple herbs in traditional remedies, enhancing effectiveness through synergistic interactions in healing practices.
35) Kashaya (Kasaya):
Kasaya defines an astringent or decoction in Ayurveda. Nirgundi’s recognition in this context affirms its role in formulating herbal teas or preparations aimed at managing conditions associated with irritative or inflammatory ailments.
36) Mandali (Mandalin, Mamdali):
Mandali represents a category of venoms or poisons in Ayurvedic texts. Nirgundi’s role in treating conditions from Mandali bites illustrates its effectiveness in detoxifying the body from harmful toxins, underscoring its significance in traditional emergency medicine practices.
37) Tagara:
Tagara, or Valeriana wallichii, is another herb noted in Ayurvedic medicine. Its mention in conjunction with Nirgundi indicates potential combined benefits in managing sleep disorders and anxiety, reflecting traditional practices of synergy among herbal constituents.
38) Caraka:
Caraka is one of the pivotal figures in Ayurveda, credited for compiling ancient texts. His contributions to the systematic understanding and application of Nirgundi amid other herbs underscore the importance of traditional medicine's scholarly bases and their lasting impacts.
39) Apachi:
Apachi signifies an Ayurvedic term related to types of fevers or diseases. Nirgundi is referenced in formulations for managing Apachi conditions, illustrating is significance in treating febrile diseases within the context of traditional practices.
40) Arjaka:
Arjaka, or the Indian plant Fagonia cretica, plays a role alongside Nirgundi in Ayurvedic formulations. Their complementary applications bring to light the collaborative use of various herbs in addressing similar health issues in holistic healing.
41) Anjana (Amjana):
Anjana refers to applications often used in the treatment of eye disorders. Nirgundi’s use within Anjana preparations signifies its broader therapeutic range, expanding its role in Ayurvedic practices beyond conventional applications.
42) Pushpi (Puspi):
Pushpi alludes to the flowering aspects of plants. In the context of Nirgundi, it highlights the use of flower extracts in therapeutic applications, paving the way for developing holistic medicines leveraging all parts of the plant.
43) Spider:
Spider refers to a source of venom relevant in the context of poisoning treatments. Nirgundi’s mention in formulations for spider bites elucidates its effectiveness in managing various types of toxicity, reinforcing its widespread relevance in folk medicine.
44) Indian:
Indian refers to the cultural and regional origins of Nirgundi and its applications in Ayurveda. This descriptor emphasizes the roots of traditional knowledge systems entwined with the history of natural medicine practices crucial to Indian heritage.
45) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha represents the Ayurvedic concept of bodily humors essential for maintaining health. Nirgundi is used to balance doshas, particularly Kapha, affirming its role in holistic health practices targeting various imbalances present in patients.
46) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, associated with water and earth elements. Nirgundi’s effectiveness in combating excess Kapha-related conditions showcases its significance in therapeutic applications aimed at restoring harmony within the bodily systems.
47) Varti (Vartin):
Varti refers to a classic formulation in Ayurveda used for therapeutic purposes, typically in the form of medicated suppositories. Nirgundi's inclusion in Varti illustrates its comprehensive medicinal uses in addressing internal conditions through various means of administration.
48) Nasya (Nashya):
Nasya describes a method of nasal administration used in Ayurveda. Nirgundi's application in Nasya treatments enhances its therapeutic reach for conditions related to the head and respiratory system, underscoring its versatility in traditional remedies.
49) Basti:
Basti represents a traditional Ayurvedic enema treatment used to administer oil-based formulations. Nirgundi’s incorporation in Basti preparations signifies its utility in promoting detoxification and overall health, showcasing diverse applications within the Ayurvedic health practices.
50) Krimi (Krmi):
Krimi refers to worms or parasites addressed in Ayurvedic medicine. Nirgundi’s classification as Krimighna highlights its effectiveness in combating parasitic infections, emphasizing its role as a natural remedy in traditional healing systems.
51) Priya:
Priya is a name that can signify 'beloved' or 'dear'. In this context, it refers to Dr. Priya Mourya, a contributing author on Nirgundi's therapeutic review, establishing scholarly credentials in the study and promotion of Ayurvedic medicine and its applications.
52) Shveta (Sveta):
Sveta translates to 'white' and may refer to parts of Nirgundi or other plants. This descriptor helps categorize herbs based on physical appearances, aiding in the identification and application of various medicinal plants in traditional practices.
53) Bilva (Vilva):
Bilva, or Aegle marmelos, is another medicinal plant recognized in Ayurvedic practices. Its association with Nirgundi emphasizes the diversity of herbal remedies in traditional medicine and highlights potential synergistic uses between these plants for various health benefits.
54) Nimbi:
Nimbi refers to the neem tree, noted in Ayurveda for its medicinal properties. Its mention alongside Nirgundi showcases the richness of herbal medicine practices that combine various species for enhanced therapeutic benefits.
55) Table:
Table refers to a structured presentation of information. The tables embedded within the text on Nirgundi summarize and classify relevant data pertaining to therapeutic uses and forms, offering a clear reference for practitioners in traditional medicine.
56) Fever:
Fever indicates a medical condition often treated with herbs like Nirgundi. The plant’s therapeutic applications for fever management within Ayurveda substantiate its reputation for addressing symptomatic concerns through traditional healing methods.
57) Lepa:
Lepa denotes a medicinal paste applied externally. Nirgundi’s use in Lepa formulations accentuates its effectiveness for treating localized ailments like pain and inflammation, showcasing the practice of topical applications inherent to Ayurveda.
58) Katu:
Katu refers to a 'pungent' taste in Ayurvedic terminology, indicating the flavor profile of certain medicinal herbs, including Nirgundi. This taste is often associated with stimulating digestion and enhancing metabolic functions, reinforcing Nirgundi’s digestive benefits.
59) Kasa (Kasha):
Kasa signifies cough or respiratory ailments in Ayurveda. Nirgundi is traditionally utilized in formulations aimed at alleviating coughs, showcasing its effectiveness in addressing symptoms of respiratory distress and enhancing breathing health.
60) Spider poison (Spider venom):
Spider poison refers to toxins that may result from spider bites. Nirgundi's inclusion in treatments for such venomous encounters illustrates its role in emergency medicine within Ayurvedic traditions, underscoring its medicinal significance.
61) Shri-lanka (Srilanka, Sri-lanka, Shrilanka):
Sri Lanka is noted for its traditional medicine practices, where Nirgundi also finds applications similar to those in India. This geographical association underscores the plant's recognized value across different cultures blending indigenous knowledge systems of herbal medicine.
62) Dhanvantarinighantu (Dhanvantari-nighantu):
Dhanvantari-nighantu refers to a specific Ayurvedic text compiling plant names and their medicinal uses. The reference to Nirgundi consolidates its traditional knowledge across multiple texts, exemplifying the systematic approach to herbal medicine within Ayurveda.
63) Sushruta-samhita (Susruta-samhita):
Sushruta-samhita is an essential Ayurvedic text credited to Sushruta, encompassing surgical and medicinal practices. The mention of Nirgundi in Sushruta-samhita emphasizes its historical relevance in surgery and treatment modalities utilized in ancient medicine.
64) Karviradivarga (Karviradi-varga):
Karviradi-varga is a classification in Ayurvedic texts that categorizes certain medicinal plants. Nirgundi’s inclusion illustrates its essentiality in herbal categorizations, aiding practitioners in selecting appropriate formulations for various health conditions.
65) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological pertains to the study of how herbal substances affect biological systems. Nirgundi's research within pharmacological frameworks advocates its medicinal utility and emphasizes the scientific inquiries validating its traditional uses and therapeutic properties.
66) Nirgunditaila (Nirgundi-taila):
Nirgundi-taila refers specifically to the oil derived from the Nirgundi plant. This formulation exemplifies the therapeutic utility of the plant, where its active properties are extracted for applications in treating pain and inflammatory conditions.
67) Phytochemical:
Phytochemical refers to the chemical compounds derived from plants. The phytochemical constituents of Nirgundi offer crucial insights into its therapeutic actions, highlighting its efficacy in treating various health conditions through its active ingredients present in different plant parts.
68) Vranashodhana (Vranasodhana, Vrana-shodhana):
Vranasodhana signifies the healing of wounds or injuries in Ayurvedic medicine. Nirgundi’s noted application in promoting wound healing underscores its significance in traditional therapy, emphasizing its role in restoring tissue integrity and health.
69) Siddhisthana (Siddhi-sthana):
Siddhisthana refers to an important section of Ayurvedic texts dealing with therapeutic formulations. Nirgundi’s mention here underscores its diverse applications within treatment protocols and embodies the complexities of Ayurvedic pharmacology.
70) Accumulation (Accumulating, Accumulate):
Accumulation refers to the buildup of substances in the body that can lead to various health issues. Nirgundi is involved in addressing conditions associated with fluid retention, highlighting its diuretic properties and the holistic approach to treating imbalances within the body.
71) Bhringaraja (Bhrngaraja, Bhringa-raja, Bhrimgaraja):
Bhringaraja, or Eclipta alba, is another important plant in Ayurveda mentioned alongside Nirgundi. The synergy between these plants is vital for enhancing therapeutic benefits, illustrating the comprehensive nature of Ayurvedic formulations in targeting multiple aspects of health.
72) Girikarnika (Giri-karnika):
Girikarnika, associated with Nirgundi, points to another botanical reference in classical texts. This association emphasizes the interconnectedness among herbs in Ayurveda and their collaborative therapeutic roles in various traditional medicinal formulations.
73) Pittadosha (Pittadosa, Pitta-dosha):
Pitta-dosha refers to the Ayurvedic humor associated with metabolism and energy. Nirgundi’s applications in managing Pitta imbalances underline its role in promoting digestive health and restoring bodily equilibrium in traditional healing contexts.
74) Vranaropana (Vrana-ropana):
Vranaropana translates to wound healing in Ayurvedic practice, emphasizing the application of Nirgundi in facilitating recovery from injury. This property underscores the importance of utilizing herbal remedies in managing tissue repair and regeneration.
75) Surrounding:
Surrounding pertains to the cultivation and holistic practice enhancing the environment where Nirgundi grows. Planting Nirgundi encourages biodiversity and showcases the importance of incorporating medicinal plants into local ecosystems for sustainable health practices.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 203]
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