Medico-botany of andaman and nicobar islands – iii ayurvedic drugs – i
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Medico-botany of andaman and nicobar islands – iii ayurvedic drugs – i
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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K.V. Nair, S.N. Yoganarasimhan, K.R. Kesava Murthy, T.R. Shantha
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Medico-botany of andaman and nicobar islands – iii ayurvedic drugs – i
Year: 1984
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, comprising a unique chain of 321 islands, are home to a rich and diverse flora that is largely underutilized in the field of Ayurveda. This study presents findings from a medico-botanical program aimed at cataloging plants with potential Ayurvedic applications. Despite the local populations, such as the Onges, Nicobarese, and Shompens, using various native plants, there has been minimal effort to exploit these resources. The authors gathered over 200 plant species, highlighting 44 that are suitable as Ayurvedic drugs, thus providing a foundational resource for establishing Ayurvedic industries in the islands.
Ayurvedic Drug Utilization: Sahacara and Nirgundi
Among the Ayurvedic drugs identified, Sahacara and Nirgundi stand out due to their significant medicinal properties. Sahacara, derived from Barleria prionitis, is noted for its effectiveness in treating conditions related to Vata (one of the body's doshas) and is incorporated into various preparations like Sahacharadi Taila and Ashthavarga Kashaya. It is characterized by its bitter taste (thikta rasa), warm potency (ushna veerya), and light qualities (laghu guna). Similarly, Nirgundi, sourced from plants like Vitex negundo and Gendarussa vulgaris, serves as a anthelmintic (krimihara) and plays a crucial role in Ayurvedic formulations such as Sakapallavadi Kashaya. Nirgundi exhibits astringent and bitter properties, indicating its potential effectiveness against worms and other infections.
Conclusion
The findings from this study underscore the untapped potential of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands' flora in the realm of Ayurvedic medicine. The identification and cataloging of these 44 drugs provide essential groundwork for developing Ayurvedic and related pharmaceutical industries in the region. With a deeper understanding of local plants and their medicinal properties, efforts can be made to harness this biological wealth effectively, both preserving traditional knowledge and promoting wellness in the local communities. The authors also acknowledge the contributions and support received from various institutions, which facilitated the research and documentation of these invaluable resources.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the focus of the research conducted on Andaman and Nicobar Islands?
The research aims to document Ayurvedic drugs available in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, providing essential information to establish Ayurvedic and allied pharmaceutical industries and highlight the island's unique flora.
How many Ayurvedic drugs were identified in the research?
The authors identified 44 Ayurvedic drugs derived from over 200 plant species collected during their studies, offering potential for medicinal and pharmaceutical use in the region.
What are some characteristics of the drugs listed in the study?
Each drug includes its classical Ayurvedic name and botanical sources, alongside properties like rasa (taste), virya (potency), and guna (qualities), providing crucial data for practitioners and researchers.
How will this research benefit the local communities in the islands?
By documenting these medicinal plants, the research encourages local utilization and the establishment of Ayurvedic industries, which can contribute to health care, economic development, and preservation of traditional knowledge.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Medico-botany of andaman and nicobar islands – iii ayurvedic drugs – i”. 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) Drug:
In Ayurveda, 'Drug' refers to medicinal substances derived from plants, minerals, or animal products used for therapeutic purposes. These substances are chosen based on their properties and effects on the body, helping in the treatment and alleviation of various ailments.
2) Kashaya (Kāṣāya, Kāśaya, Kāsāya, Kaṣāya, Kaśāya, Kāsaya, Kaṣāyā, Kasāya, Kasaya):
Kashaya signifies herbal decoctions or preparations that are made by boiling herbs in water. In Ayurvedic practice, kashayas are considered potent in therapeutic applications, often utilized for their action on specific doshas or bodily conditions.
3) Katu (Kaṭu, Kātu):
'Katu' refers to the 'pungent' taste among the six tastes defined in Ayurveda. It is believed to stimulate digestion and metabolism, often associated with herbs that enhance circulation and reduce mucus. Katu is important for balancing certain doshas.
4) Rasa (Rasā, Rasha):
The term 'Rasa' means 'taste' and encompasses sensory experience, but in Ayurveda, it extends deeper to include the therapeutic properties of plants. Each substance has a unique combination of rasas influencing its effects on the body and its healing properties.
5) Vipaka (Vipāka):
'Vipaka' refers to the post-digestive effect or final taste of a substance after its initial processing in the body. It represents how a drug transforms within the body and its long-term effects, integral to treatment strategies in Ayurveda.
6) Guna (Guṇa, Gūna):
'Guna' means 'properties' or 'qualities' that determine the effects of a drug on the body. Ayurveda describes physical and physiological characteristics like heaviness, lightness, warmth, or coldness that are pivotal in assessing the suitability of a drug.
7) Ushna (Uṣṇa, Uṣṇā):
'Ushna' signifies the 'warm' quality of substances in Ayurveda. It indicates heating properties that influence digestion and metabolism. Ushna drugs are often used for conditions related to coldness or dampness in the body, especially to balance Kapha dosha.
8) Laghu:
'Laghu' describes the 'light' quality of substances in Ayurveda, often linked to easy digestibility and an invigorating effect on the body. Laghu drugs can stimulate metabolism and energy promotion, vital for revitalizing the body.
9) Madhura (Madhurā, Mādhura):
'Madhura' refers to the 'sweet' taste and quality associated with nourishment and cooling effects. Sweet substances are valued for their ability to pacify pitta dosha and provide energy. They are often used in tonics and for building strength.
10) Ruksha (Rūkṣa):
'Ruksha' means 'dry' and refers to the property of certain herbs that absorb moisture. Ruksha drugs can help balance excess Kapha and are often used to treat conditions like phlegm and other dampness in the body.
11) Taila (Tailā):
'Taila' refers to 'oil' in Ayurveda, which can be derived from various plant sources and is often used in external applications or internal therapies. Oils are known for their nourishing properties and ability to enhance absorption and effectiveness of herbs.
12) Tikta (Tiktā):
'Tikta' means 'bitter' taste, one of the six primary tastes in Ayurveda. It holds significant therapeutic benefits, particularly in detoxification and appetite enhancement. Tikta drugs can clear heat and balance pitta and Kapha doshas effectively.
13) Snigdha (Snigdhā):
'Snigdha' means 'unctuous' or 'oily', indicative of substances that provide lubrication, nourishment, and softness. Snigdha properties are essential in counteracting dryness, balancing vata dosha, and aiding digestion and absorption.
14) Ayurveda (Āyurveda, Ayus-veda):
'Ayurveda' is the ancient Indian system of medicine that emphasizes balance in the body, mind, and spirit. It focuses on holistic health, preventative care, and the use of natural herbs and treatments to promote well-being and longevity.
15) Dashamula (Dasha-mula, Daśamūla, Dashan-mula):
'Dasamula' refers to a classical combination of ten herbs traditionally used in Ayurvedic formulations. This blend represents a synergistic approach to enhancing the therapeutic properties of a range of diseases, particularly those related to vata dosha.
16) Ghrita (Ghṛta):
'Ghrita' signifies 'ghee,' a clarified butter that is often used in Ayurvedic preparations. Ghritas are significant for their ability to carry the properties of medicines to tissues, improve digestion, and possess rejuvenating qualities.
17) Guru:
'Guru' describes the 'heavy' quality of substances in Ayurveda. It indicates a tendency to increase heaviness in the body and is often used to nourish tissues and enhance strength, particularly for people weakened by illness or stress.
18) Bala (Bāla, Balā, Bālā):
'Bala' translates to 'strength' and refers to both the herb Sida cordifolia and the quality of promoting vitality. It is often included in revitalizing formulations credited with boosting immunity and overall health.
19) Cita:
'Sida' refers to a genus of flowering plants in the mallow family, known for their medicinal properties in Ayurvedic medicine, particularly Sida cordifolia, which is famed for its strengthening effects and support in treating various ailments.
20) Madhurarasa (Madhura-rasa):
'Madhura-rasa' signifies 'sweet taste' which plays an essential role in Ayurveda, promoting nourishment, stabilization of energy, and grounding properties. It counters irritation from other tastes and is often balanced with other rasas in formulations.
21) Katurasa (Kaṭurasa, Katu-rasa):
'Katu-rasa' represents 'pungent taste' which, in Ayurveda, aids in digestion, promotes circulation, and clears mucus. It is valuable for increasing metabolic activity and is often incorporated into remedies for respiratory issues.
22) Asana (Āśana, Āsana, Aśanā, Aśana, Ashana, Asaṇā):
'Asana' refers to a class of Ayurvedic herbs and denotes 'posture' or 'position' in yoga. In Ayurveda, asana is vital for maintaining physical health and balance in conjunction with holistic therapies and practices.
23) Yoga (Yogā):
'Yoga' represents a spiritual and physical practice aimed at harmonizing the body, mind, and spirit. It plays a crucial role in Ayurvedic philosophy, emphasizing the importance of mental discipline and physical fitness for overall health.
24) Gana (Gaṇa, Gāna):
'Gana' signifies 'group' or 'classification' of herbs based on shared properties or therapeutic actions. This classification aids in identifying and utilizing herbs effectively in treatment protocols, helping practitioners streamline choices for patient care.
25) Bhallataka (Bhallāṭaka, Bhallātaka):
'Bhallataka' is a medicinal plant used in Ayurveda, known for its anticancer properties. It is highly regarded for its effectiveness in treating various disorders and is included in many Ayurvedic formulations and therapies.
26) Vidaryadi (Vidāryādi):
'Vidaryadi' is an important herbal formulation referred to in Ayurvedic texts, celebrated for its rejuvenating effects, particularly in revitalizing the body's strength and mitigating disorders associated with vata and pitta doshas.
27) Ashtanga (Aṣṭāṅga, Ashtan-anga):
'Ashtanga' refers to the eight limbs of yoga outlined in classical texts, emphasizing physical discipline, moral precepts, and meditative practices. It is considered foundational for achieving bodily and spiritual harmony in Ayurvedic practice.
28) Vidari (Vidārī, Vidāri, Vidārin, Vidarin):
'Vidari' signifies Valladolid, a well-known Ayurvedic herb known for its health-promoting and restorative effects. It is commonly used in formulations aimed at providing nourishment and enhancing overall vitality.
29) Bhringaraja (Bhṛṅgarāja, Bhringa-raja, Bhrimgaraja):
'Bhringaraja' is a revered Ayurvedic herb known for promoting hair growth and overall vitality. It is often used in oils and topical applications, believed to enhance beauty and health.
30) Madanaphala:
'Madanaphala' denotes a medicinal fruit alternative used in Ayurvedic practices, especially for its purgative actions and health-promoting qualities, making it vital for detoxifying and effective in managing digestive disorders.
31) Agnimantha (Agni-mantha, Agnimamtha):
'Agnimantha' refers to a classical Ayurvedic herb known for its vital role in treating vata disorders. Its therapeutic properties are applied in various formulations, particularly those aimed at restoring balance in the body.
32) Prasarini (Prasāriṇī):
'Prasarini' refers to an Ayurvedic herb significant for its therapeutic properties, especially in the treatment of joint and muscle problems. It's utilized in various formulations designed to aid relief and mobility.
33) Nighantu (Nighaṇṭu, Nighamtu):
'Nighantu' signifies a comprehensive list or compilation of medicinal herbs and their properties in Ayurveda. It serves as a valuable reference for practitioners to understand the traditional uses and classifications of various plants.
34) Rohitaka (Rohītaka):
'Rohitaka' refers to a medicinal herb renowned in Ayurvedic medicine for its ability to support digestive health and overall well-being, often included in formulations that target vata and pitta imbalances.
35) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana, Rasāyana, Rāsāyana):
'Rasayana' denotes a category of rejuvenative therapies in Ayurveda. It emphasizes the use of herbs and preparations designed to promote longevity, health, and vitality, vital for maintaining balance and wellness.
36) Priyangu (Priyaṅgu, Priyaṃgu, Priyamgu):
'Priyangu' refers to a herb used in Ayurveda, recognized for its fragrant properties and valued in many therapeutic formulations aimed at promoting overall health and vitality.
37) Nirgundi (Nirguṇḍī, Nirgumdi):
'Nirgundi' refers to an important Ayurvedic herb valued for its therapeutic properties, particularly in treating pain and inflammation. It's often included in formulations designed for joint care and general wellness.
38) Atibala (Atibalā, Atibālā):
'Atibala' is another Ayurvedic herb known for its rejuvenating and strengthening qualities. It is particularly useful for enhancing vitality and overall health, often found in revitalizing formulations.
39) Tambula (Tambūla, Tāmbūla):
'Tambula' denotes the betel leaf in Ayurvedic practices. It's utilized for its digestive properties, freshening breath, and is incorporated into various formulations linked to oral health and well-being.
40) Jatyadi (Jātyādi):
'Jatyadi' refers to a traditional formulation in Ayurveda comprised of various herbs that are effective for specific health challenges, especially in skin and detoxification treatments.
41) Varahi (Varāhī, Vārāhī, Vārāhi):
'Varahi' denotes a traditional herb used in Ayurveda, often referenced for its revitalizing properties, particularly aimed at enhancing strength and energy in medicinal formulations.
42) Samana (Śamana, Samāna, Samaṇa, Samanā, Śāmana, Sāmana, Shamana, Samānā):
'Samana' signifies equalizing qualities in Ayurvedic context, often referred to treatments that strive for balance among the doshas, primarily vata, pitta, and kapha.
43) Kvatha (Kvātha):
'Kvatha' refers to a type of herbal decoction in Ayurvedic practice made by boiling herbs, renowned for extracting potent medicinal properties that are beneficial in treatment protocols.
44) Kanda (Kaṇḍa, Kandā, Kamda):
'Kanda' denotes 'tubers' in Ayurveda, referring to underground plant structures that often have therapeutic properties. Kanda plants are commonly used in various formulations for health benefits.
45) Visha (Viśa, Visa, Viṣa, Viṣā, Vīśa):
'Visha' means 'poison' in Ayurveda and is associated with toxins harmful to health. The study of visha and its antidotes forms an important part of Ayurvedic medicine for treatment and detoxification.
46) Hara (Hāra):
'Hara' translates to 'removing' or 'elimination' and reflects the therapeutic goal of certain Ayurvedic treatments aimed at detoxifying the body and restoring health through various botanical preparations.
47) Lepa:
'Lepa' refers to 'pastes' or 'ointments' made from medicinal herbs for topical application. Lepa therapies are used in Ayurveda for skin conditions, promoting healing and local relief.
48) Vata (Vāṭa, Vaṭa, Vāta, Vaṭā):
'Vata' signifies one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, representing the elements of air and space. It governs bodily functions related to movement, circulation, and neural activity, with balance being essential for health.
49) Sara (Śāra, Shara, Sāra, Ṣaṟā):
'Sara' refers to 'fluid' or 'liquidy' qualities in Ayurveda. It pertains to the qualities of substances that can influence digestion and absorption, playing a role in nutritional balance.
50) Worm:
'Worm' denotes various parasites that can inhabit the body, causing health issues. Ayurvedic formulations are designed to counteract these invaders through detoxification and restorative treatments.
51) Uraria lagopodioides:
Commonly known as 'Udumbara,' Uraria lagopodioides is a medicinal plant recognized in Ayurveda for its medicinal properties, particularly in detoxifying formulations aimed at restoring balance and health.
52) Dioscorea bulbifera:
Commonly referred to as 'Varahi Kanda,' it is an important tuberous plant in Ayurveda valued for its properties that help alleviate various ailments and nourish the body, often used in rejuvenative formulations.
53) Bronchial asthma:
Bronchial asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by airway inflammation, resulting in breathing difficulties. Ayurvedic approaches aim to balance the doshas and strengthen the respiratory system via specific herbs and treatments.
54) Solanum indicum:
Commonly called 'Brahati,' this plant has significant therapeutic applications in Ayurveda, particularly in its use for respiratory conditions, digestive issues, and as a part of rejuvenative formulations.
55) Santalum album:
Known as 'Sandalwood,' Santalum album is venerated for its cooling and calming properties in Ayurveda. It is widely utilized in herbal formulations for skin care and mental tranquility.
56) Piper chaba:
Piper chaba, or 'Chavya,' is an aromatic plant valued in Ayurveda for its culinary and medicinal properties, particularly for enhancing digestive health and as an ingredient in various formulations.
57) Clerodendrum phlomidis:
Clerodendrum phlomidis, or 'Agnimantha,' is significant in Ayurveda for treating vata disorders and is utilized in preparations for its strengthening and restorative effects on health.
58) Bhavaprakashanighantu (Bhāvaprakāśanighaṇṭu, Bhavaprakasha-nighantu):
This is an Ayurvedic text serving as a medicinal dictionary containing various herbs, their descriptions, and therapeutic uses, functioning as a reference for practitioners to identify and apply herbal treatments.
59) Abrus precatorius:
Known as 'Gunja,' Abrus precatorius is an important medicinal plant in Ayurveda used in various remedies for skin problems, and its properties are harnessed in specific formulations for health benefits.
60) Ashtangahridaya (Aṣṭāṅgahṛdaya, Ashtanga-hridaya):
Ashtanga-hridaya is a core Ayurvedic text authored by Vagbhata, encompassing principles of Ayurveda including medicinal plants, therapeutic methods, and general practices aimed at maintaining health and treating ailments.
61) Sushruta-samhita (Suśruta-saṃhitā):
Susruta-samhita is considered one of the foundational texts of Ayurvedic medicine, focusing on surgical techniques, herbal treatments, and the overall management of health, greatly influencing the practice of Ayurveda.
62) Aegle marmelos:
Commonly known as 'Bilva,' Aegle marmelos is a significant fruit in Ayurveda used for its digestive, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying properties, often included in traditional formulations for health benefits.
63) Pashanabheda (Pāṣāṇabhēda, Pāṣāṇabheda):
Pashana-bheda refers to a collection of herbs used in Ayurveda specifically for their diuretic properties, aiding in the treatment of urinary calculi and other conditions related to fluid retention.
64) Samudraphala:
Samudraphala denotes various fruits in Ayurveda, recognized for their medicinal properties and used in several formulations aimed at detoxification and nourishment.
65) Annasvarupa (Annasvarūpa, Anna-svarupa):
'Anna-svarupa' signifies the classification of food substances in Ayurvedic practice, underlining the importance of diet and nutrition in maintaining health and addressing various health conditions.
66) Bhallatakadi (Bhallātakādi):
'Bhallatakadi' refers to a group of Ayurvedic formulations focusing on specific healing properties, particularly for their effectiveness in addressing tumors and cancerous conditions.
67) Saptacchada (Saptachada, Saptan-chada):
'Saptacchada' is a traditional herbal formulation in Ayurveda known for its therapeutic benefits, particularly in treating specific ailments and enhancing overall health.
68) Kakodumbara (Kākodumbara, Kākoḍumbara):
'Kakodumbara' refers to a specific medicinal plant in Ayurveda used primarily for its health benefits in gastrointestinal disorders and is applied in various formulations for its therapeutic attributes.
69) Gajapippali (Gajapippalī, Gaja-pippali):
'Gajapippali' is an important medicinal plant recognized for its effectiveness in treating respiratory ailments and enhancing overall vitality, incorporated into various Ayurvedic preparations.
70) Kalpasthana (Kalpasthāna, Kalpa-sthana):
'Kalpasthana' refers to a section in the Ayurvedic texts discussing the preparation and application of medicinal formulas, serving as a guide for practitioners regarding the use of herbs and their properties.
71) Punarnavadi (Punarnavādi):
'Punarnavadi' symbolizes a group of Ayurvedic herbal preparations vital for restoring vitality and addressing various health challenges, particularly related to kidney health and rejuvenation.
72) Nirgundyadi (Nirguṇḍyādi):
'Nirgundyadi' refers to a category of Ayurvedic formulations that utilize Nirgundi's therapeutic properties specifically for the treatment of pain and inflammation.
73) Kampillaka (Kāmpillaka):
'Kampillaka' refers to a medicinal herb known for its therapeutic uses in Ayurveda, especially in dealing with digestive and absorption issues while providing beneficial health effects.
74) Ashtavarga (Aṣṭavarga, Ashtan-varga):
'Ashtavarga' refers to a revered group of eight medicinal herbs in Ayurveda recognized for their collective benefits, particularly in enhancing vitality and vigor in health formulations.
75) Katutikta (Kaṭutiktā, Katu-tikta):
'Katu-tikta' signifies a combination of pungent and bitter tastes in Ayurvedic formulations, offering synergistic effects that work to balance doshas and support digestive health.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 137]