Medicinal importance of some common indian vegetables part i
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Medicinal importance of some common indian vegetables part 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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Original source:
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Subrata de, K.M. Parikh
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Medicinal importance of some common indian vegetables part i
Year: 1985
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The article "Medicinal Importance of Some Common Indian Vegetables" highlights the medicinal properties and nutritional values of various vegetables widely consumed in India. Authored by Subrata De and K.M. Parikh, it emphasizes the beneficial role of these vegetables in promoting health and preventing diseases. The authors note that India, with its diverse agroclimatic conditions, serves as a rich repository of herbal remedies that can be harnessed for better health outcomes. The article illustrates how the judicious use of natural resources, particularly in dietary practices, can enhance human health through a drugless approach found in naturopathy.
Nutritional and Medicinal Benefits of Moringa Oleifera
Moringa oleifera, commonly known as the drumstick tree, is highlighted as an exemplary example of a vegetable with extensive medicinal benefits. All parts of the tree, including leaves, flowers, and pods, are utilized for their nutritional and therapeutic properties. The pods contain proteins, carbohydrates, and essential minerals, while the leaves are particularly rich in vitamins A and C, as well as several amino acids. Moringa is known for its applications in treating conditions such as ascites, rheumatism, and venomous bites, while also serving as a cardiac stimulant. Its leaves provide significant nutritional benefits, helping combat issues related to scurvy and supporting overall immune health. The roots exhibit antibiotic properties and are used in traditional Ayurvedic preparations, emphasizing Moringa's status as a vital component in both nutrition and medicine.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the article underscores the significance of common Indian vegetables not only as dietary staples but also as potent medicinal agents. With a particular focus on how vegetables like Moringa oleifera contribute to health and wellness, the authors advocate for integrating these natural foods into daily nutrition to prevent ailments and enhance vitality. The research presented serves as a reminder of the valuable resources nature provides and encourages a greater understanding and utilization of these plants within the framework of traditional medicine, contributing to a holistic approach to health.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What medicinal properties does Colocasia esculenta have?
Colocasia esculenta is high in carbohydrates and proteins, exhibits laxative properties, and can treat piles, earaches, and insect stings. Its juice is astringent and can arrest arterial hemorrhage.
How is Alocasia Indica useful in medicine?
Alocasia Indica is commonly used for gout and rheumatism. Its flour can serve as a nutritious food for invalids, while the root stock is useful in treating leprosy and abdominal diseases.
What are the benefits of Carica papaya?
Carica papaya has digestive benefits, aids in expelling worms, and is used for treating spleen enlargement. Its leaves contain high vitamins like C and E, and it has cosmetic uses for skin blemishes.
What properties does Moringa oleifera offer?
Moringa oleifera provides a wealth of vitamins A and C. It has medicinal benefits for ascites, rheumatism, and venomous bites. The tree's parts are known to stimulate circulation and have gastrointestinal benefits.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Medicinal importance of some common indian vegetables part 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 the context of traditional medicine, 'drug' refers to any substance that is used for medicinal purposes. Many vegetables discussed exhibit various therapeutic properties, offering natural 'drugs' without harmful side effects, demonstrating the potential of dietary items as effective health aids.
2) Medicine:
'Medicine' encompasses both the science of health and the practice of diagnosing and treating diseases. The vegetables discussed often possess medicinal attributes, reinforcing the idea of food as medicine—a principle that integrates dietary practices into holistic health approaches.
3) Leprosy:
'Leprosy' is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae. Some plants noted in the article, like Alocasia Indica, are mentioned as remedies for leprosy, highlighting the significance of traditional herbal treatments for diseases historically deemed untreatable in modern contexts.
4) Sadana (Sādana, Sādāna, Shadana):
'Sadana' likely refers to 'Sadana J.C.', an author cited in the study, emphasizing the connection between traditional medicine and scholarly literature. Works by various researchers underscore the ongoing exploration and documentation of medicinal plants in both contemporary and ancient contexts.
5) Blood:
'Blood' is often referenced in discussions of health and medicine, particularly concerning its role in bodily functions. Many vegetables provide nutrients that can support blood health, reduce impurities, and address conditions like anemia, showcasing their systemic health benefits.
6) Inflammation:
'Inflammation' is a biological response to harmful stimuli, and several vegetables mentioned possess anti-inflammatory properties. These properties help mitigate inflammation, suggesting that incorporating these vegetables can play a role in managing inflammatory conditions through diet.
7) Punarnava (Punarnavā, Punarṇava, Punar-nava):
'Punarnava' is a medicinal plant described in the text, recognized for its diuretic and restorative properties. This vegetable illustrates how certain traditional herbs are valued for their healing capabilities in maintaining health and treating various ailments.
8) Scorpion:
'Scorpion' relates to traditional remedies used for treating stings from such creatures. Some plants noted in the study have been prescribed in folk medicine for treating scorpion bites, emphasizing the historical significance of herbal medicine in first aid care.
9) Thirst:
'Thirst' can indicate dehydration or the need for nourishment. Several vegetables, such as Carica papaya and others, offer hydrating elements and nutritional benefits that can alleviate thirst, promoting overall health and well-being through dietary choices.
10) Kanda (Kaṇḍa, Kandā, Kamda):
'Kanda', which refers to yam or tuber, indicates the versatile use of certain root vegetables in health practices. The excerpt highlights edible and medicinal aspects of plants like Amorphophallus campanulatus, illustrating the importance of tubers in traditional medicine.
11) Sugar:
'Sugar' is often discussed in dietary contexts due to its energy-providing properties. Some plants described might influence blood sugar levels, providing dietary fibers and nutrients that can support balanced sugar metabolism, crucial for overall health.
12) Ulcer:
'Ulcer' denotes open wounds or sores, often requiring careful dietary management. Several vegetables possess healing properties, promoting mucosal health and assisting in ulcer treatment, underscoring the benefits of specific edible plants for digestive health.
13) Diet:
'Diet' reflects not only food choices but also the broader implications of nutrition on health. The text emphasizes the medicinal importance of incorporating certain vegetables into daily diets, highlighting their roles in prevention and treatment of diseases.
14) Salt (Salty):
'Salt' is often used in traditional medicine for its preservative and healing roles. The article suggests the combination of salt with certain plant juices enhances their medicinal efficacy, particularly in treating inflamed glands, illustrating diets' roles in natural remedies.
15) Burning sensation:
'Burning sensation' often indicates irritation or inflammation within the body. Certain vegetables discussed have properties that may alleviate such feelings, particularly in conditions like piles, making them valuable in traditional treatments for symptom relief.
16) Punarnavadi (Punarnavādi):
'Punarnavadi' references an Ayurvedic formulation that includes Punarnava, among other herbs. This term emphasizes the practice of combining various plants for synergistic health effects, showcasing the depth of Ayurvedic medicine in managing health through plant mixtures.
17) Science (Scientific):
'Science' encompasses systematic knowledge and understanding. The interplay between traditional medicine and scientific validation is crucial in exploring the therapeutic potentials of various vegetables noted in the article.
18) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
'Antibiotic' refers to substances that inhibit the growth of microorganisms. Some plants noted in the text, such as Moringa oleifera, exhibit such properties, indicating a natural means through which plant-based compounds may support health and combat infections.
19) Nadishaka (Nadi-shaka, Nāḍīśāka):
'Nadishaka' is a vernacular term for a vegetable known for its health benefits. Its inclusion illustrates the importance of local plants in traditional health practices and reinforces the notion of localized remedies tailored to specific cultural needs.
20) Kushmanda (Kūṣmāṇḍa, Kuṣmāṇḍa, Kūṣmāṇḍā, Kushmamda):
'Kushmanda' refers to a plant valued in Ayurveda, particularly its fruit. This vegetable's inclusion highlights its recognized properties in traditional treatments, demonstrating the fusion of culinary and medicinal knowledge in Indian herbal remedies.
21) Substance:
'Substance' denotes any matter, particularly those recognized for their therapeutic effects. The various vegetables listed represent substances with health benefits, emphasizing the inherent qualities of natural products as viable sources for medicinal use.
22) Ayurveda (Āyurveda, Ayus-veda):
'Ayurveda' represents a holistic healing system that integrates diet, lifestyle, and herbal remedies. The article places emphasis on Ayurvedic principles as a foundation for understanding the medicinal applications of common vegetables to promote health.
23) Palankya (Pālaṅkyā):
'Palankya', commonly known as spinach, implies the significant nutritional and medicinal roles of leafy greens. The references underscore how valuable greens can be in supporting bodily functions and overall health through their various nutrients.
24) Arshaghna (Arśaghna):
'Arsaghna' refers to plants like Amorphophallus campanulatus, recognized for their health benefits. This highlights the historical significance of certain tubers in traditional diets and their inclusion in remedies for various ailments.
25) Vomiting:
'Vomiting' is a reflex action often indicating illness. The text mentions specific plants, like Ipomoea aquatic, with applications to treat nausea and stimulate digestive health, showing how traditional foods can address such symptoms.
26) Hysteria:
'Hysteria' refers to psychological disturbances. The article references traditional remedies that include plants aimed at calming the nervous system, illustrating how traditional methods can also extend to mental health management.
27) Suvarna (Suvarṇā, Suvarṇa):
'Suvarna', or gold, frequently symbolizes wealth and high-value substances, including plants known for their potent medicinal properties. The mention of 'Suvarna' could point to the valuable uses of certain plants in Ayurvedic formulations.
28) Murinna (Muriṅṅa):
'Murinna' refers to Moringa oleifera, a highly nutritious plant known for its extensive health benefits. Its mention emphasizes the importance of this superfood in traditional and contemporary diets, particularly in nutrient-dense culinary practices.
29) Malaya (Mālaya):
'Malaya' refers to the region where certain traditional practices, potentially including herbal medicine, are recognized. Its inclusion indicates the broader cultural context in which local foods and remedies are trusted for health and wellness.
30) Kakana (Kākaṇa):
'Kakana' likely relates to a vegetable discussed in the text. Its incorporation highlights regional dietary practices and the adaptation of local herbs for health benefits based on traditional knowledge systems.
31) Tamara (Tāmara, Ṭamāra, Ṭamarā):
'Tamara' references a type of leafy green or plant, emphasizing its nutritional significance. The vegetables mentioned can serve not only as dietary staples but also as important components of health-supporting diets.
32) Bitter:
'Bitter' traditionally indicates taste profiles of certain edible plants known for medicinal properties. Many vegetables noted possess bitter profiles that support digestion and detoxification, emphasizing the role of taste in healing practices.
33) Insect:
'Insect' refers to creatures like scorpions, whose stings can necessitate treatment. The article discusses plants with properties to alleviate bites, showcasing the intersection of flora and fauna in traditional healthcare practices.
34) Ranga (Raṅga, Ramga):
'Ranga' refers to colorful varieties of vegetables like sweet potatoes, indicating the diversity of edible plants. Their mention underscores the nutritional enrichment that vibrant produce can deliver in maintaining health.
35) Gupta (Guptā):
'Gupta' likely refers to an author cited in research. This highlights the importance of scholarly literature in examining and documenting the medicinal uses of indigenous herbs and vegetables within scientific discussions.
36) Shigru (Śigru):
'Sigru' is another name for Moringa, reaffirming the plant's widespread recognition for its health-promoting properties. Its prominence illustrates the relevance of traditional knowledge in modern nutritional practices.
37) Cina (Cīna, Cīnā, Ciṉa, Ciṉā, Cīṉā, Cinā):
'China' denotes a geographical context where certain herbs and plants play crucial roles in traditional medicine, paralleling Indian practices. The acknowledgment of Chinese herbal medicine signifies global ties in the realm of traditional healing.
38) Hara (Hāra):
'Hara', which can refer to green plants, highlights the significance of greens in dietary practices. This relates to the broader theme of nutritional benefits derived from various vegetables emphasized throughout the article.
39) Vasu (Vasū, Vāsu, Vāsū):
'Vasu' could relate to an Ayurvedic term indicating health or well-being. Its usage underscores the cultural integration of health and dietary practices within traditional systems of medicine.
40) Kara (Kārā, Kāra, Kaṟa, Kaṟā):
'Kara' often means to do or cause; in this context, it refers to actions taken in healing. The traditions of utilizing natural remedies demonstrate the active engagement with plants for health benefits.
41) Lepa:
'Lepa' refers to herbal pastes used in traditional medicine. The mention indicates the practical applications of plants in topical treatments, emphasizing the multifaceted uses of plant substances in health.
42) Avil (Āvil, Aviḻ):
'Avil' signifies a type of dish or preparation often associated with certain plants. This connection emphasizes culinary practices rooted in traditional medicine, underscoring how food serves therapeutic purposes.
43) Soup:
'Soup' represents a culinary method that can incorporate various healthy ingredients. The discussion of vegetables as beneficial for health reinforces the relationship between nutrition and the simplicity of preparation, enhancing overall well-being.
44) Hand:
'Hand' indicates manual processes in treatment applications. Herbal preparations often require careful handling and knowledge, spotlighting the importance of skills and traditions passed down through generations in maintaining health.
45) Worm:
'Worm' often alludes to parasitic infestations, which some discussed plants can help expel. The utilization of certain vegetables as anthelmintics shows how traditional foods can be integral in maintaining digestive health.
46) Shand (Śaṇḍ, Sand):
'Sand' suggests a natural element often associated with growth and cultivation. Its mention conveys the deep connection between the earth and the availability of medicinal plants, highlighting their origins in natural environments.