Botanical notes on herbs in Ayurvedic medicine: hribera, amragandha.
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Botanical notes on the identity of certain herbs used in ayurvedic medicines in kerala. iii. hribera and amragandha
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.
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.
V.V. Sivarajan, Indu Balachandran
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Botanical notes on the identity of certain herbs used in ayurvedic medicines in kerala. iii. hribera and amragandha
Year: 1986
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study focuses on the identification of the herbs "Hribera" and "Amragandha," both of which are used in Ayurvedic medicine in Kerala. The authors, V.V. Sivarajan and Indu Balachandran, discuss the botanical identity of "Hribera," identifying it as Coleus Zeylanicus, and provide an artificial key along with identifying features for "Amragandha." These two herbs have distinct characteristics and uses in traditional medicine, and their correct identification is essential for ensuring the effectiveness of Ayurvedic practices.
Identification of Hribera
Hribera, also known as Iruveli in Malayalam, has been subject to various identifications throughout the years. Some authors have equated it with species such as Anisochilus carnosus and Coleus spicatus, but the consensus reached in this study identifies it as Coleus Zeylanicus. This herb is a semi-succulent, aromatic plant characterized by its fibrous roots and distinctive leaf structure. It is native to Sri Lanka, where it is known as Iruveriya, and has a traditional use in treating diarrhea. The study emphasizes that the absence of proper recognition in Indian flora concerning this species might lead to inaccuracies in herbal medicine practices.
Conclusion
In summary, the research on "Hribera" and "Amragandha" highlights the importance of accurate botanical identification in Ayurvedic medicine. By clarifying the identity of Hribera as Coleus Zeylanicus and providing a key for distinguishing between various species of Limnophila related to Amragandha, the study aids in the understanding and application of these medicinal herbs. The authors express gratitude for the collaborative efforts that contributed to this research and underscore the significance of correct identification for the continued efficacy of herbal remedies in traditional medicine.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the botanical identity of Hribera used in Ayurveda?
Hribera is identified as Coleus Zeylanicus, commonly known as Iruveli in Kerala. This species is well-recognized for its medicinal properties and is widely cultivated for use in Ayurvedic medicine.
Which species are linked to the drug Amragandha?
Amragandha, known as Mannanari, is associated with several species of Limnophila. The primary sources include Limnophila aromatica and Limnophila indica, although other species might also contribute to this herbal remedy.
What are the distinguishing features of Coleus Zeylanicus?
Coleus Zeylanicus is a semi-succulent herb with profuse branching, aromatic leaves that are ovate or orbicular in shape. Its flowers are small, blue or purplish, and its unique odor distinguishes it from similar species.
What factors contribute to the identity controversy around Hribera?
The identity of Hribera has been debated among botanists, with various authors proposing different species such as Anisochilus carnosus and Pavonia odorata. However, compelling evidence supports Coleus Zeylanicus as the correct identification.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Botanical notes on herbs in Ayurvedic medicine: hribera, amragandha.”. 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:
The term 'drug' refers to any substance used in the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of disease. In the context of Ayurvedic medicine, various herbs and plants have traditional medicinal properties, and their proper identification and usage are crucial for effective treatment. The paper discusses the identity of specific Ayurvedic drugs.
2) Hribera (Hrībera):
Hribera, also known as Valakam or Iruveli, is identified in the paper as Coleus zeylanicus. This herb has been a subject of botanical debate, and its correct identification is essential for its use in Ayurvedic remedies, providing insights into its therapeutic potential and application in traditional medicine.
3) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing illness. The Ayurvedic system, as discussed in the text, utilizes various herbs, including Hribera and Amragandha, for therapeutic purposes, highlighting the intersection of botany and traditional healing practices in Kerala.
4) Iruveli (Iruvēli):
Iruveli is the vernacular name for Hribera and directly corresponds to the species Coleus zeylanicus. This name reflects the cultural and regional significance of the herb in Kerala, emphasizing the importance of local nomenclature in the identification and use of medicinal plants in Ayurveda.
5) Vaidya:
Vaidya refers to a traditional healer or practitioner of Ayurveda in India. The term highlights the knowledge and expertise involved in using medicinal plants for treatment, underscoring the importance of trained practitioners in the application of herbal remedies and the transmission of Ayurvedic knowledge.
6) Shala (Sālā, Sāla, Śala, Śālā, Śāla, Sala):
Sala, in the context of the text, is part of 'Arya Vaidya Sala,' an institution dedicated to Ayurvedic medicine. This institution symbolizes the integration of traditional medicine with scientific inquiry, providing a platform for research and education on the use of medicinal herbs in Ayurveda.
7) Vetiveria zizanoides:
Vetiveria zizanoides, commonly known as Khaskhas, is a highly aromatic grass important in traditional medicine and as a fragrance. Although not directly related to the Ayurvedic drugs discussed, mentioning it in the context establishes a contrast with Coleus zeylanicus, aiding in the identification of distinct herbs.
8) Veterinary medicine:
Veterinary medicine pertains to the diagnosis and treatment of animals. The paper notes that a decoction of Hribera, combined with onion, is utilized in veterinary medicine in Sri Lanka, demonstrating the application of traditional herbal remedies for both human and animal health in the Ayurvedic system.
9) Discussion:
The term 'discussion' refers to the scholarly analysis and debate surrounding the identification of herbal drugs. In the paper, various perspectives on the identity of Hribera and Amragandha are presented, showcasing the collaborative effort to clarify botanical classifications critical for improving Ayurvedic treatments.
10) Khaskhas:
Khaskhas, or Vetiveria zizanoides, is recognized for its aromatic roots and traditional medicinal properties. Its mention contrasts with Coleus zeylanicus, helping to clarify the differences between herbs and their applications in medicine, emphasizing the importance of accurate botanical identification in herbal practices.
11) Science (Scientific):
Science represents a systematic study of the natural world, including botany and medicinal plants. The paper illustrates how scientific methods are applied in the identification and classification of herbs used in Ayurveda, fostering a deeper understanding of their pharmacological properties and therapeutic applications.
12) Botany:
Botany is the branch of biology concerning plant life. In the text, botany is fundamental to the identification of medicinal herbs, such as Hribera and Amragandha, linking plant taxonomy and morphology to their uses in Ayurvedic medicine, thereby underscoring the importance of herbological research.
13) Honey:
Honey is a natural sweet substance that is often used in traditional remedies for its therapeutic properties. In the context of Hribera, the juice of the herb mixed with honey is mentioned as a remedy for diarrhea, highlighting the synergistic use of various natural ingredients in Ayurvedic treatment.
14) Indu (Imdu):
Indu refers to Smt. Indu Balachandran, one of the co-authors of the paper. Her involvement underscores the collaborative effort in the scientific exploration of Ayurvedic herbal medicine, contributing to the discussion on the proper identification and characterization of medicinal plants used in Kerala.