Therapeutic review of pippali (Piper longum) in Ayurvedic texts.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: A traditional therapeutic review of pippali (piper longum) and its root in classical ayurvedic texts
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.
Dr. Shalu Sharma
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: A traditional therapeutic review of pippali (piper longum) and its root in classical ayurvedic texts
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr202213-25598
Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Pippali (Piper longum), a traditional herb in Ayurveda, has been extensively referenced in classical Ayurvedic texts such as Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita. Its therapeutic properties and applications have been outlined in various formulations, where it is recognized for its efficacy in treating a range of ailments, especially related to digestion and respiratory health. This review aims to explore the ancient wisdom surrounding Pippali, its classification, morphology, and therapeutic significance as highlighted in classical Ayurvedic literature.
Therapeutic Applications of Pippali
Pippali has been identified as a powerful therapeutic agent in Ayurveda, particularly for conditions associated with digestive disorders and respiratory issues. According to Charaka, Pippalimula (the root of Pippali) is recommended for Agnimandya (impaired digestive fire) and Aanaha (obstruction to the passage of flatus), suggesting its role in enhancing digestion and alleviating gastrointestinal disturbances. Furthermore, it has therapeutic applications in managing diseases such as Arsha (hemorrhoids) and Udara (abdominal disorders), showcasing its extensive use in treating digestive health and related complications.
Pharmacological and Medicinal Properties
The pharmacological effects of Pippali are supported by its chemical composition, which includes piperine and other active compounds that exhibit various biological activities. Research indicates that Pippali acts as a mast cell stabilizer and has bronchodilator effects, making it beneficial in conditions like asthma and bronchitis. Additionally, Pippali exhibits anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory properties, suggesting its potential in fighting infections and enhancing immune response. The versatile pharmacological profile of Pippali reinforces its classification as a valuable herb in both traditional and modern medicine.
Morphological Characteristics
Pippali is characterized by its erect, thick, and branched rootstock, with stems that can grow up to 0.9 meters. The leaves are dark green, broad, and cordate, with a glabrous texture and intricate venation. Its flowers are unisexual and are densely packed in spikate inflorescences. The distinct morphological characteristics of Pippali contribute to its identification and help in understanding its ecological adaptations. This detailed botanical classification aids in recognizing the plant in traditional and herbal medicine practices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Pippali (Piper longum) emerges as a significant herb within the realm of Ayurveda, demonstrating extensive therapeutic benefits for digestive and respiratory health, among other conditions. The integration of classical Ayurvedic insights with modern pharmacological research underscores the enduring relevance of Pippali in contemporary health practices. Continued research into its diverse effects may pave the way for a deeper understanding of traditional medicine principles, affirming Ayurveda's sustained value in holistic health care.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Pippali and its botanical classification?
Pippali, scientifically known as Piper longum, belongs to the Piperaceae family. It is traditionally recognized for its therapeutic properties in Ayurveda.
What medicinal roles does Pippali serve in Ayurveda?
Pippali is beneficial for respiratory and gastrointestinal disorders like Kasa and Agnimandhya. It also addresses issues such as Jwara and Arshas.
How is Pippali used according to classical texts?
In Ayurvedic texts, Pippali is included in various formulations for treating diverse conditions, particularly those related to digestion and respiratory health.
What are the main therapeutic properties of Pippali?
Pippali exhibits anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antimicrobial activities. It also acts as an appetite stimulant and is helpful in respiratory issues.
What parts of the Pippali plant are used medicinally?
The fruits and roots of the Pippali plant are used in traditional medicine for their therapeutic properties.
Which modern medical databases reference Pippali's benefits?
Research on Pippali can be found in databases like PubMed, Scopus, Sciencedirect, and Scirus, highlighting its traditional uses and modern validations.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Therapeutic review of pippali (Piper longum) in Ayurvedic texts.”. 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) Pippali (Pippalin):
Pippali, scientifically known as Piper longum, is a significant herb in Ayurveda known for its medicinal properties. It is traditionally employed to treat respiratory and digestive ailments. Pippali is categorized as a rasayana, which is believed to rejuvenate and strengthen the body and mind, enhancing longevity and vitality.
2) Guna:
In Ayurveda, 'Guna' refers to the intrinsic qualities or attributes of substances, particularly medicinal herbs. Each Guna influences how a substance interacts with the body, playing a key role in determining its therapeutic effects. Understanding Guna is essential for Ayurvedic practitioners when formulating herbal preparations and treatments.
3) Nighantu (Nighamtu):
A Nighantu is a traditional Ayurvedic lexicon or glossary that lists medicinal plants, their properties, and uses. It serves as a reference guide for practitioners, providing crucial information on the significance of various herbs and their applications in herbal medicine within the Ayurvedic system.
4) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma is a common surname in India, often associated with Brahmin families. In the context of Ayurveda, it may refer to individuals contributing to the field, such as scholars or practitioners who study, practice, or research ancient medicinal texts and traditional healing practices.
5) Activity:
Activity in Ayurveda can refer to various properties or effects that an herb or treatment induces within the body. It encompasses a wide range of actions, such as enhancing digestion, promoting relief from ailments, or balancing the doshas (body energies), which is central to Ayurvedic healing.
6) Kasa (Kasha):
Kasa, which translates to cough in Sanskrit, is a common ailment that Ayurveda addresses with various herbs, including Pippali. Treatment strategies often focus on balancing the doshas and may include herbal formulations to soothe the throat and improve respiratory function.
7) Dravya:
Dravyas signify substances or materials used in therapeutic practices within Ayurveda. This encompasses a diverse range of elements, including herbs, minerals, and animal products, forming the foundation for developing effective treatment regimes.
8) Karma (Karman):
In the context of Ayurveda, 'Karma' denotes the actions or effects that a substance can produce in the body. This includes therapeutic benefits, such as anti-inflammatory or analgesic properties. Each herb's Karma is pivotal in creating effective treatment formulations tailored to individual health needs.
9) Basti:
Basti refers to a traditional Ayurvedic therapy involving the administration of herbal decoctions or oils through the rectum. It is primarily used to cleanse and rejuvenate the body, targeting specific ailments by balancing the doshas, particularly Vata, and enhancing overall health.
10) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa translates to taste in Sanskrit and encompasses the essential qualities of a substance in Ayurveda. There are six primary Rasas: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent, and astringent. Each Rasa plays a significant role in determining the therapeutic effects and applications of herbal medicines.
11) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana refers to a category of Ayurvedic practices and formulations aimed at rejuvenation and enhancement of bodily functions. These treatments promote longevity, vitality, and overall health, often utilizing potent herbs like Pippali to revitalize the tissues and enhance mental and physical performance.
12) Katu:
Katu means 'pungent' in Sanskrit and is one of the six tastes recognized in Ayurveda. Substances with Katu Rasa, like Pippali, are believed to stimulate digestion and metabolism, often being used to balance excess Kapha and Vata doshas, thus promoting overall well-being.
13) Madhura:
Madhura translates to 'sweet' and is one of the six primary tastes in Ayurveda. Herbs and substances with Madhura Rasa are generally considered nourishing and calming, beneficial for balancing Vata and Pitta doshas, and often used in treatments aimed at digestive and respiratory health.
14) Paryaya:
Paryaya refers to the synonyms or alternative names for a single herb or substance in Ayurvedic literature. Recognizing various Paryayas enhances understanding and identification of herbs, as different traditions or regions may refer to the same plant by different names.
15) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita means 'clarified butter' in Ayurveda and is commonly used as a base for herbal formulations. It is believed to enhance the bioavailability and efficacy of medicinal herbs, acting as a carrier that nourishes tissues and supports overall health when combined with active ingredients.
16) Ushna (Usna):
Ushna means 'hot or heating' in Sanskrit and is often used to describe the quality of a substance that can increase body heat and stimulate digestion. Ushna properties in herbs like Pippali are beneficial in balancing Kapha and Vata doshas, aiding in cold-related ailments.
17) Roga:
Roga translates to 'disease' or 'disorder' in Sanskrit and encompasses various health conditions addressed within the Ayurvedic system. Understanding Roga involves looking at the underlying imbalances in doshas and developing treatment strategies that restore equilibrium and promote healing.
18) Kana:
Kana is a synonym for Pippali in Ayurvedic texts. Its mention showcases the various identifiers of the herb that facilitate recognition and understanding of its therapeutic properties. Each synonym may also hint at different aspects of its use and benefits in traditional medicine.
19) Tikshnatandula (Tikshna-tandula, Tiksnatandula):
Tikshnatandula refers to a variant of rice exhibiting sharpness or pungency. Within Ayurvedic literature, it may be associated with Pippali or other pungent herbs that engage similar digestive properties, ensuring clarity about their qualities and uses in treatment formulations.
20) Upakulya:
Upakulya is another synonym of Pippali found in classical texts. It emphasizes the herb's diverse nomenclature, enriching its cultural and regional significance in Ayurvedic medicine while supporting practitioners' understanding of its unique properties and therapeutic range.
21) Samhita:
Samhitas refer to compilations of ancient texts in Ayurveda that articulate the foundational philosophy, medicinal practices, and guidelines within the field. These texts are paramount for practitioners seeking to apply Ayurvedic knowledge accurately.
22) Snigdha:
Snigdha translates to 'unctuous' or 'oily' in Sanskrit, describing a quality attributed to certain herbs and substances. This quality aids in promoting hydration, nourishment, and lubrication within the body, playing a crucial role in balancing doshas and treating conditions like dryness.
23) Krishna (Krsna):
Krishna is a synonym for Pippali, highlighting the different names by which this herb is known. This diversity in nomenclature showcases cultural variations and provides insights into the herb's historical and regional usage in Ayurvedic practices.
24) Shaundi (Saundi, Shaumdi):
Saundi serves as a synonym for certain herbs, emphasizing their specific medicinal qualities or attributes. Recognizing such variations aids in accurately identifying and employing herbs as per traditional practices.
25) Capala:
Chapala represents another synonym for Pippali, accentuating its role and recognition across various Ayurvedic texts. The term may denote specific attributes of the herb, fostering a deeper understanding of its uses and significance within Ayurvedic pharmacology.
26) Virya:
Virya means 'potency' in Ayurveda and refers to the inherent strength or energy of a substance that influences its therapeutic effects. Different herbs possess varying degrees of Virya, affecting their abilities to balance doshas and address specific health conditions.
27) Pippalyadi (Pippali-adi):
Pippalyadi refers to a group or formulation that includes Pippali as a primary ingredient. Such formulations utilize the combined properties of various herbs to develop synergistic effects, enhancing their overall therapeutic capabilities for treating specific disorders.
28) Magadhi:
Magadhi is a synonym for Pippali, showcasing its linguistic and regional variations within Ayurvedic texts. This term adds depth to the understanding of Pippali, reflecting its importance and application across different cultures in traditional medicine.
29) Vaidehi:
Vaidehi is another synonym for Pippali, emphasizing the diverse nomenclature associated with the herb in Ayurvedic texts. Understanding these variations aids practitioners in recognizing and utilizing Pippali effectively in various treatments and formulations.
30) Vipaka:
Vipaka refers to the post-digestive effect of a substance in Ayurveda, indicating how it influences bodily functions after ingestion. The concept of Vipaka helps determine how different herbs interact with the body's metabolism and how they influence dosha balance.
31) Varga:
Varga refers to a group or classification of herbs with similar properties or characteristics in Ayurveda. These classifications help streamline the identification and application of herbs within various therapeutic contexts, supporting practitioners in their treatment formulations.
32) Arshas (Arsa, Arsas, Arsha):
Arshas refers to hemorrhoids or piles within Ayurvedic terminology, conditions often addressed using herbal formulations that include Pippali due to its properties that support digestive health and reduce inflammation.
33) Mahakashaya (Mahakasaya, Maha-kashaya):
Mahakashaya refers to a significant group or class of medicinal herbs described in Ayurveda. Formulations from the Mahakashaya category highlight the importance of synergistic effects derived from combining multiple herbs to enhance therapeutic benefits and support holistic health.
34) Vrishya (Vrsya):
Vrishya translates to 'aphrodisiac' in Ayurveda, referring to substances believed to enhance sexual vitality and power. Herbs exhibiting Vrishya properties, like Pippali, are traditionally used to promote overall reproductive health and vitality, playing a key role in both men’s and women’s health.
35) Udara:
Udara refers to abdominal disorders within Ayurvedic medicine. Pippali is used in several formulations to address conditions like bloating and abdominal pain, focusing on enhancing digestion and alleviating discomfort caused by imbalances in the digestive tract.
36) Gulma:
Gulma denotes a type of abdominal mass or tumor in Ayurvedic terminology. It emphasizes the need for targeted therapies utilizing herbs like Pippali that are believed to offer benefits in managing and resolving such conditions through detoxification and metabolic improvement.
37) Table:
Table refers to structured visual representations of data or information in literature. In Ayurvedic texts, tables often summarize properties of herbs, treatment methodologies, and classifications, providing quick access to essential information for practitioners and researchers.
38) Kola:
Kola serves as another synonym for Pippali within Ayurvedic texts, indicating the wide-ranging names attributed to this herb. It reflects the rich linguistic diversity and cultural significance of Pippali, promoting its recognition and use in various Ayurvedic applications.
39) Yoga:
Yoga in Ayurveda has a dual meaning. It refers both to the practices promoting physical and mental well-being, such as yoga postures, and to formulations or combinations of herbs designed to address specific health issues. Understanding Yoga is critical for holistic healing.
40) Katurasa (Katu-rasa):
Katu-rasa encompasses the pungent flavor associated with certain herbs like Pippali, known for stimulating digestion and metabolism. Katu-rasa herbs are traditionally employed to combat issues related to Kapha and Vata doshas, aiding in detoxification and improving digestive health.
41) Magadha:
Magadha is a historical region in India, contributing to the nomenclature of Pippali as 'Magadhi'. This regional connection highlights the cultural heritage of Ayurvedic practices, enriching the understanding of this herb's significance in traditional healing.
42) Ushana (Usana):
Ushana, synonymous with Pippali, underscores the plant's heating properties. This name reflects its effectiveness in treating cold conditions, promoting circulation, and balancing dosha imbalances associated with colds and respiratory disorders. Such nuances are valuable for Ayurvedic treatments.
43) Sthana:
Sthana refers to a location or site within Ayurveda, often denoting specific regions of the body affected by diseases. Understanding Sthana aids practitioners in targeting treatments effectively, ensuring comprehensive approaches in disease management and therapeutic strategies.
44) Hridya (Hrdya):
Hridya means 'heart' in Ayurveda, relating to both the physical organ and the emotional aspects associated with it. Herbs like Pippali, which support cardiovascular health and emotional well-being, play vital roles in treatments targeting conditions related to the heart.
45) Shyama (Syama):
Shyama serves as a synonym for Pippali, reflecting the herb's many names based on regional and linguistic variations. Such synonyms enhance knowledge of its usage and reinforce its significance across different cultural practices within Ayurveda.
46) Sutika:
Sutika refers to the postpartum period in Ayurveda, addressing the health and recovery of women after childbirth. Formulations containing Pippali are often recommended to promote healing, enhance lactation, and restore strength during this critical time.
47) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosa translates to 'fault' or 'deficiency' in Ayurveda, reflecting imbalances in bodily qualities. Addressing Dosa is crucial for restoring health, emphasizing the need for tailored herbal treatments aimed at rectifying identified deficiencies.
48) Kapha:
Kapha represents one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, characterized by qualities of heaviness and coolness. Imbalances in Kapha can lead to various health issues, and herbs like Pippali are utilized to pacify this dosha and promote balance within the body.
49) Laghu:
Laghu means 'light' in Sanskrit and is often used to describe herbs or substances that are easily digestible and have stimulating properties. Such qualities are crucial in Ayurvedic treatments, particularly for addressing Kapha imbalances and enhancing digestion.
50) Danti (Damti, Dantin):
Danti refers to a specific herb used in Ayurveda, part of various formulations aimed at treating digestive disorders. Understanding Danti's properties helps practitioners combine it effectively with herbs like Pippali to enhance therapeutic outcomes.
51) Lepa:
Lepa refers to a paste or ointment used in external treatments in Ayurveda. Herbal Lepa formulations can incorporate Pippali to leverage its medicinal properties for topical applications, benefiting skin conditions and promoting healing.
52) Sara (Shara):
Sara means 'essence' or 'fluid' in Sanskrit and refers to the vitality or nourishing qualities of an herb. Sara characteristics in medicinal plants help facilitate the healing process, enabling adaptability and effective treatment in various health conditions.
53) Leha:
Leha is a sweetened herbal paste used in Ayurveda, typically prepared with honey or jaggery. Formulations may include Pippali to enhance digestion and rejuvenation, capitalizing on its therapeutic properties for specific health benefits.
54) Drug:
Drugs encompass substances utilized for therapeutic interventions in Ayurveda, including herbal ingredients and formulations. Understanding the classification and efficacy of various drugs is essential for developing individualized treatment plans.
55) Sushruta-samhita (Susruta-samhita):
Sushruta Samhita is an ancient Ayurvedic text attributed to Sushruta, one of the founding fathers of surgery. It outlines surgical techniques and herbal treatments, serving as a crucial reference for understanding the historical context and practices of Ayurvedic medicine.
56) Udararoga (Udara-roga):
Udara-roga relates to disorders affecting the abdomen in Ayurveda. Therapeutic applications, including herbs like Pippali, aim to address symptoms such as bloating and discomfort while promoting digestive health and restoring balance.
57) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda, translating to 'the science of life,' represents an ancient Indian system of medicine. It emphasizes balance among the body, mind, and spirit through lifestyle, diet, and herbs. Understanding Ayurveda involves embracing its holistic approach to health and well-being.
58) Prameha:
Prameha refers to metabolic disorders or diseases characterized by excessive urination, often linked with diabetes in modern times. Ayurvedic treatments, including herbal formulations containing Pippali, can help manage symptoms and restore metabolic balance.
59) Kushtha (Kustha):
Kushtha includes a variety of skin disorders described in Ayurveda. Formulations with Pippali are often employed for their healing properties in managing skin ailments and promoting overall skin health.
60) Pungent:
Pungent refers to a sharp, biting taste or sensation that characterizes certain herbs, including Pippali. Pungent properties stimulate digestion, promote circulation, and can create warmth within the body, often employed to balance Kapha and Vata doshas.
61) Modaka:
Modaka refers to a type of Ayurvedic preparation often made with herbs, including Pippali, and is typically sweetened. It may be used as a nourishing and rejuvenating treatment in various health conditions, enhancing palate appeal and therapeutic effects.
62) Vamana:
Vamana is a therapeutic procedure in Ayurveda involving therapeutic vomiting to detoxify the body, often used to treat Kapha imbalances. Preparations including Pippali are significant in Vamana treatments, enhancing efficacy through digestion and elimination.
63) Pipali:
Pipali serves as an alternative spelling for Pippali, referring to the same Ayurvedic herb known for its wide range of medicinal benefits. Pioneering studies confirm its role in enhancing digestive and respiratory health, thus enriching Ayurvedic practices.
64) Nature:
Nature in Ayurvedic philosophy refers to the inherent characteristics and interrelationships among living beings, environment, and healing practices. Understanding nature's laws helps integrate Ayurvedic principles into daily life, promoting balance and harmony for optimal health.
65) Male:
Male distinctions in Ayurvedic texts may refer to the sex of certain plants, including the presence of male and female flowers on separate plants. This differentiation can be essential when discussing reproductive health and therapeutic applications of plants.
66) Bhavaprakashanighantu (Bhavaprakasanighantu, Bhavaprakasha-nighantu):
Bhavaprakasha Nighantu is a well-recognized Ayurvedic lexicon authored by Acharya Bhavamishra. It encompasses detailed descriptions of medicinal plants, their uses, and properties, facilitating better understanding and application of Ayurvedic herbs in clinical practice.
67) Kaiyadevanighantu (Kaiyadeva-nighantu):
Kaiyadeva Nighantu is another important Ayurvedic text outlining medicinal plants, their categorization, and applications. This text aids practitioners in identifying herbs correctly and aligning their use with specific health conditions and treatment goals.
68) Anuvasanabasti (Anuvasana-basti):
Anuvasana Basti is an enema therapy in Ayurveda that utilizes medicated oils or decoctions, specifically for nourishing or strengthening the body. Pippali may be included to enhance its therapeutic efficacy, focusing on rectal health and nutrient absorption.
69) Magadhodbhava (Magadha-udbhava):
Magadhodbhava describes the origin of the Pippali herb from the Magadha region in India, emphasizing its historical and cultural significance within Ayurveda, where local botanicals are often linked to traditional practices and folklore.
70) Vamanadravya (Vamana-dravya):
Vamana Dravya refers to specific herbal substances utilized in Vamana therapies, emphasizing the importance of selecting appropriate herbs for detoxification and imbalances. Herbs like Pippali enhance effectiveness in cleansing therapies within Ayurvedic practices.
71) Tiktatandula (Tikta-tandula):
Tiktatandula indicates a variety of bitter rice, emphasizing specific properties that may be related to cleansing and detoxification effects in Ayurveda, often in the context of balancing doshas and promoting digestive health.
72) Madhurarasa (Madhura-rasa):
Madhura-rasa points to the sweet taste associated with certain Ayurvedic substances. It implies a nourishing and grounding effect on the body, often pacifying Vata and Pitta doshas while promoting health, vitality, and well-being.
73) Niruhabasti (Niruha-basti):
Niruha Basti refers to a type of therapeutic enema in Ayurveda, utilizing herbal decoctions to cleanse and balance the body. It is crucial for detoxification and restoring physical balance, especially in cases of excess Vata or Kapha.
74) Pippalimula:
Pippalimula refers to the root of the Pippali plant, which is likewise utilized in Ayurvedic medicine for its health benefits. It holds therapeutic importance in various formulations aimed at enhancing digestion and respiratory health.
75) Kaphadosha (Kapha-dosha, Kaphadosa):
Kapha dosha is characterized by qualities such as stability and heaviness in Ayurvedic medicine. Imbalances can lead to various health issues, and substances like Pippali play significant roles in managing and balancing Kapha through their stimulating properties.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 229]
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Therapeutic review of pippali (Piper longum) in Ayurvedic texts.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Ayurveda, Vrishya, Ushnavirya, Chikitsasthana, Kaphahara, Pippalimula, Virechanadravya, Katurasa, Mental disorder, Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia, Classical Ayurvedic texts, Chemical composition, Acharya Charaka, Rasapanchaka, Pharmacological action, Pippali Rasayana, Gastro intestinal disorder.