Ayurvedic drugs in unani materia medica
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Ayurvedic drugs in unani materia medica
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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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The integration of Ayurvedic drugs into the Unani materia medica is a notable aspect of historical medicine in India. This infusion occurred through cultural exchanges and trade between Indian and Arabian civilizations, dating back to interactions established as early as the 7th century. The Unani system of medicine, which originated in Greece and was later developed in Arabia, thrived in India, particularly in the northern regions, where practitioners adopted nearly two hundred plant-based Ayurvedic drugs. Many of these drugs maintained their Indian names, sometimes modified or supplemented with suffixes that denote their Indian origins. This ongoing collaboration between different medical systems highlights the interconnectedness of historical herbal practices.
Syncretism in Medical Practice
One significant aspect of this integration is the linguistic adaptation of drug names. As Unani physicians arrived in India, they encountered gaps in their traditional materia medica due to the lack of certain Arabian and Persian drugs. To address this, they incorporated many Ayurvedic substances, often retaining the original Indian names or slightly altering them. For instance, the Unani term "Mushkdana" refers to Abelmoschus moschatus, which is derived from its Hindi and Bengali names. Furthermore, adaptations also included names from regional languages, showcasing a tapestry of linguistic and cultural exchange. This syncretic approach not only enriched the Unani materia medica but also emphasized the significance of regional biodiversity and traditional knowledge in medical practices across India.
Conclusion
The amalgamation of Ayurvedic drugs into Unani practice illustrates the dynamic evolution of medical systems influenced by cultural interactions. This historical narrative demonstrates how the exchange of knowledge and resources has shaped the landscape of herbal medicine in India. The acknowledgment of diverse linguistic roots and regional adaptations in naming these drugs underscores the importance of local knowledge in traditional healing practices. Ultimately, this intertwining of Ayurvedic and Unani systems not only expanded medicinal resources but also laid the foundation for a more integrated approach to health and healing in Indian medical history.
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.
M. Ali
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Ayurvedic drugs in unani materia medica
Year: 1990
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the significance of Ayurvedic drugs in Unani medicine?
Nearly two hundred Ayurvedic drugs of plant origin have been incorporated into Unani materia medica, with many names derived from Indian languages, which reflects the integration of traditional medicine systems in India.
How did Arab traders influence Ayurvedic medicine?
Arabs established trading centers in South India during the 7th century, facilitating the exchange of Ayurvedic medicines and spices, which they introduced into their medical practices and influenced the Unani system.
Which Indian languages contributed to Unani drug names?
The Unani system adopted drug names primarily from Hindi, Sanskrit, and various regional Indian languages, with many drugs having modified names based on their original meanings or local usage.
Can you list examples of Ayurvedic drugs adopted into Unani?
Some examples include 'Mushkdana' for Abelmoschus moschatus, 'Bel' for Aegle marmelos, 'Usir' for Andropogon miliaceus, and 'Brahmi' for Bacopa monnieri, each retaining relevance in both medicinal systems.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Ayurvedic drugs in unani materia medica”. 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:
A substance used for medical purposes, especially for treating or preventing diseases. In traditional systems like Ayurveda and Unani, numerous plant drugs are revered for their therapeutic properties. The integration of Ayurvedic drugs into Unani materia medica signifies the cultural exchange and recognition of plant-based substances in medicinal practices.
2) Medicine:
A broader term encompassing drugs and therapies used to treat ailments and maintain health. The historical blending of Ayurvedic and Unani systems illustrates how medicines evolve through cultural interactions. The incorporation of various plant-derived substances into these practices highlights the significance of traditional knowledge in contemporary healthcare.
3) Badari (Badarī, Bādari):
The Hindi name for Zizyphus jujube, this fruit is recognized for its health benefits in both Ayurvedic and Unani traditions. It is attributed with various medicinal properties, including enhancing immunity and digestive health. Understanding such regional names enriches the cross-cultural understanding of herbal remedies within Indian medicinal systems.
4) Pala (Palā, Pāla):
A reference to certain traditional medicinal plants or herbs, though not specifically defined in the provided text. It represents a bridge between local vernaculars and standardized botanical names, showcasing how different cultures may recognize and utilize similar plants for therapeutic purposes.
5) Zingiber officinale:
The scientific name for ginger, a well-known medicinal herb in both Ayurvedic and Unani systems. Ginger is valued for its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. Its historical use underscores the appreciation for local flora and their incorporation into traditional medicine, highlighting the synergy between ancient practices and modern science.
6) Cucumis melo:
Commonly known as melon, it holds nutritional value and is often enjoyed in various cuisines. In traditional practices, its hydrating properties are appreciated, contributing to digestive health. Such integration exemplifies how food plants are also recognized within medicinal systems, merging nutrition with therapeutic applications.
7) Calamus rotang:
Known as rattan, its inclusion in medicinal texts signifies its various applications, potentially addressing ailments related to skeletal and muscular systems. The plant also represents how functional and ornamental species intersect within the realm of traditional medicine, enriching understandings of botanical utility.
8) Kasamarda (Kāsamarda, Kasa-marda, Kāsāmarda, Kashamarda):
Referring to Cassia tora, a plant noted for its detoxifying and liver-supportive properties in traditional medicine. Recognizing regional names, such as Kasamarda, strengthens the understanding of local herbal lore and the value of native plants in maintaining health and treating specific ailments.
9) Shilajit (Śilājit, Shila-jit):
A mineral-rich biomass substance found predominantly in the Himalayas, silajit is revered for its rejuvenating properties. In traditional systems, it is associated with enhancing vitality and longevity. Its incorporation illustrates how both flora and geological resources contribute to wellness in Eastern medicinal paradigms.
10) Karanja (Karañja, Kārañjā, Karamja):
The name for Pongamia glabra, known for its medicinal and ecological uses. Karanja oil is utilized in hair and skin care, revealing its versatility. This highlights the relationship between environmental resources and healing practices in traditional medicine, as it encompasses both health and sustainability.
11) Science (Scientific):
The systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world through observation and experimentation. In the context of Unani and Ayurvedic practices, science reflects the ongoing development and validation of traditional knowledge within the broader framework of modern scientific methodologies.
12) Brahmi (Brāhmī):
Bacopa monnieri, an important herb in Ayurveda, known for its cognitive-enhancing properties. Brahmi is celebrated for its role in improving memory and reducing anxiety. The inclusion of such herbs highlights the richness of traditional knowledge in addressing mental health and cognitive function.
13) Kulthi:
Referring to the herb Dolichos biflorus, kulthi is traditionally valued for its diuretic and digestive properties. This showcases the importance of pulses and legumes in Ayurvedic practices, emphasizing how food sources can be potent medicines within traditional health systems.
14) Kanda (Kaṇḍa, Kandā, Kamda):
This term is commonly associated with various root vegetables, specifically yam or similar tubers. It highlights the reliance on indigenous crops in traditional diets and herbal preparations, which are essential for both nourishment and medicinal applications in local health practices.
15) Anana (Ānana, Ānanā, Ananā, Anaṇa, Āṅana):
Referring to the pineapple, known scientifically as Ananas comosus. While mainly recognized for its nutritional value, in traditional medicine, its enzymes are known to aid digestion and offer anti-inflammatory benefits. This highlights how food sources play a dual role in wellness.
16) Jamun:
The fruit of Syzygium cumini, it holds significant medicinal attributes, particularly in managing diabetes and digestive issues. Its use emphasizes the importance of local fruits in traditional health systems, showcasing how indigenous knowledge adapts to local flora for medicinal purpose.
17) Mundi (Muṇḍī, Muṇḍi, Mundin, Muṇḍin, Mumdi):
Commonly referring to the herb Centella asiatica, known as Gotu Kola, which enhances cognitive function and skin health. Recognizing its regional terminology highlights its widespread application in traditional practices, reflecting a deep appreciation for local flora and their therapeutic potential.
18) Karu (Kāru):
May refer to the herb Torilis arvensis, recognized in traditional contexts for its various medicinal applications. This underscores the importance of regional herbal knowledge in local healing practices and how specific plants are utilized for diverse therapeutic purposes.
19) Amla (Amlā, Āmlā):
The fruit of Emblica officinalis, distinguished for its high vitamin C content and potent antioxidant properties. Amla is foundational in Ayurvedic medicine, known for its rejuvenating effects. This emphasizes the role of nutritional fruits in maintaining health and treating diseases.
20) Jira (Jīra):
Referring to Cuminum cyminum or cumin, this spice is valued for its digestive and anti-inflammatory properties. Its popularity in both culinary and medicinal contexts illustrates the integration of everyday food items with health benefits, supporting the holistic nature of traditional wellness practices.
21) Neem:
Known scientifically as Azadirachta indica, neem is considered a panacea in traditional medicine due to its antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. Its presence highlights how traditional systems incorporate various parts of the plant for treating diverse ailments, affirming local environmental resources' significance in healthcare.
22) Nardostachys jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamamsi):
A revered herb in Ayurveda known for its calming effects and use in treating stress-related disorders. This plant exemplifies the intersection of local flora with holistic health approaches, offering insights into how traditional practices prioritize mental wellness through specific botanicals.
23) Cinnamomum zeylanicum:
Commonly known as Ceylon cinnamon, this spice is prized not only for its flavor but also for various health benefits including anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Its use in traditional practices underscores the value placed on spice-derived medications within holistic health approaches.
24) Tinospora cordifolia:
Known as Giloy, it is celebrated for its immune-boosting properties. This herb's application in traditional systems highlights the importance of using specific plants to enhance vitality and resilience, reflecting the holistic perspective of health and disease management in Ayurveda.
25) Solanum xanthocarpum:
Commonly known as yellow berried nightshade, it has been utilized in various traditional medicinal applications, particularly for respiratory issues. This illustrates how regional variations of plants contribute to local healing practices and the significance of native herbs in sustaining community health.
26) Emblica officinalis:
The scientific name for Amla, this fruit is popularly known for its potent antioxidant effects and nutritional value. Its implementation in daily health regimens showcases the blending of diet and medicine in traditional practices, reinforcing the importance of herbal sources for wellness.
27) Azadirachta indica:
Known as Neem, this tree's leaves, bark, and seed oil are utilized for their antimicrobial properties. Its broad applications in skincare and health represent the integration of environmental knowledge into practice, affirming the importance of indigenous plants in promoting health.
28) Withania somnifera:
Commonly known as Ashwagandha, it is renowned for its adaptogenic properties, aiding in stress relief and overall vitality. Its inclusion in traditional medicine signifies the holistic approach to health, incorporating specific plants that address both physical and mental wellness.
29) Dolichos biflorus:
Known as Kulthi, it is acknowledged for its diuretic and digestive properties in traditional systems. This emphasizes how legumes and pulses are utilized beyond nutrition, playing a crucial role in holistic health and demonstrating traditional agricultural wisdom.
30) Nelumbo nucifera:
Commonly referred to as the sacred lotus, it holds both culinary and medicinal significance in local traditions. Its flowers and seeds are attributed various health benefits, emphasizing the integration of culturally significant plants in traditional wellness practices.
31) Mangifera indica:
The mango, celebrated for its taste and nutritional benefits, is also valued in traditional medicine for its cooling properties and digestive support. This highlights the importance of seasonal fruits in maintaining health within traditional systems, exemplifying the synergy between diet and herbal remedies.
32) Saussurea lappa:
This herb, known as Costus root, is recognized for its digestive and anti-inflammatory properties. Its incorporation into traditional medicine reflects how certain roots and tubers are prized for their therapeutic attributes, addressing various health complaints through localized herbal practices.
33) Adhatoda vasica:
Valued in traditional systems as Vasaka, its expectorant properties make it useful for respiratory conditions. This reinforces the significance of specific plants in addressing common health issues and the appreciation for local flora in developing herbal remedies.
34) Cuminum cyminum:
Known as cumin, it is both a spice and medicinal herb known for aiding digestion and enhancing immunity. Its cross-utilization in culinary practices and traditional medicine exemplifies the integral role spices play in health maintenance and disease prevention.
35) Acacia catechu:
Commonly known as Khair, this tree is valued for its astringent properties and is used in dental care and traditional remedies. This highlights the diverse applications of trees in regional medicinal systems, showcasing the importance of sustainable use of indigenous plants.
36) Piper longum:
Known as long pepper, it is utilized in traditional medicine to enhance digestion and respiratory health. Its application exemplifies how traditional practices incorporate various botanical species to address specific health needs, reaffirming the value placed on herb diversity in therapeutic contexts.
37) Piper cubeba:
Also known as cubeb pepper, it holds significance in traditional medicine primarily for its antiseptic properties. The recognition of such spices in medicinal systems underscores the connection between culinary practices and health, representing an integrated approach within traditional healing.
38) Indigofera tinctoria:
The source of indigo dye, this plant is recognized in traditional systems for its potential medicinal benefits, including antimicrobial qualities. Its dual use in textile and medicine highlights the broader applications of local plants in sustaining both culture and health practices.
39) Terminalia bellirica:
Commonly known as Baheda, it is a key component in Triphala and is prized for its digestive and rejuvenating properties. This highlights the interconnectedness of nutrition and herbal practices in traditional health systems, emphasizing the holistic approach to wellness.
40) Asparagus racemosus:
Known as Shatavari, this plant is highly regarded in Ayurvedic traditions for women's health. Recognizing its medicinal roles reflects the broader cultural and historical appreciation for specific plants, highlighting their significance in maintaining reproductive and general health.
41) Momordica charantia:
Widely known as bitter gourd, it is recognized for its blood sugar-lowering properties. Its inclusion in traditional dietary recommendations underscores the importance of local vegetables in managing health, demonstrating how food sources inform holistic health practices.
42) Plumbago zeylanica:
Known as Chitraka, this plant is valued for its digestive benefits and detoxifying properties. Its application in traditional medicine reflects the importance of specific herbs in addressing bodily imbalances and affirming the examination of local flora within health regimens.
43) Nymphaea nouchali:
Known as the blue lotus or water lily, this plant has cultural significance and is noted for its potential calming effects. Its recognition within herbal medicine underscores the convergence of beauty, culture, and health in traditional practices, enriching holistic healing methodologies.
44) Tamarindus indica:
Tamarind is recognized for its culinary and medicinal applications, particularly for digestive health. This fruit demonstrates the blending of everyday foods with health benefits in traditional practices, emphasizing the importance of local ingredients in holistic wellness.
45) Commiphora mukul:
Also known as Guggul, this resin is recognized for its cholesterol-lowering effects and overall health benefits. Its traditional significance in Ayurvedic practices illustrates how specific plant exudates are valued for their therapeutic properties, revealing the complexity of herbal healing.
46) Dalbergia sissoo:
Commonly known as Sheesham, this tree has applications in traditional timber use but also holds medicinal significance. Its inclusion demonstrates the reverence for trees in traditional systems, showcasing holistic practices that link ecology with health.
47) Mimusops elengi:
The wood apple, noted for its nutritional and medicinal attributes, particularly in traditional oral health. Recognizing such plants underscores the reliance on indigenous species for oral and overall wellness, affirming local knowledge regarding health traditions.
48) Acorus calamus:
Also known as sweet flag, this plant is prized for its aromatic rhizome used in traditional medicine to enhance cognition and mental clarity. Its historical use reinforces the notion of sensory herbs playing critical roles in health practices and highlights their popularity across cultures.
49) Aegle marmelos:
Commonly known as bael fruit, it is revered for its digestive and metabolic benefits. This plant's multifaceted applications illustrate the broader significance assigned to local flora in addressing health issues, showcasing the cultural importance of specific plants in dietary practices.
50) Cocos nucifera:
The coconut palm is not only valued for its culinary uses but also for its various health benefits, especially in traditional remedies for hydration and nourishment. This highlights the importance of integrating local resources into holistic approaches to health and wellness.
51) Vigna mungo:
Known as urad dal in culinary contexts, this pulse is also valued for its health benefits, particularly in aiding digestion. Its inclusion underscores the significance of legumes in traditional diets, showcasing how food contributes to health maintenance and disease prevention.
52) Suryavarta (Surya-avarta, Sūryāvarta, Sūryāvartā):
Typically associated with traditional practices relating to specific medicinal plants, the term may refer to an indigenous plant used in health applications. Understanding such nomenclature boosts awareness of local practices and the herbs that constitute indigenous medicinal systems.
53) Talmakhana (Tālmakhānā):
Known as Asteracantha longifolia, it is traditionally valued for its health benefits, particularly in treating urinary disorders. Recognizing such regional plants emphasizes the broader cultural reliance on specific flora for maintaining health and addressing common ailments.
54) Kantakari (Kaṇṭakārī, Kamtakari, Kantakāri):
Referring to Solanum xanthocarpum, used in traditional medicine for respiratory and digestive issues. Highlighting indigenous plants like Kantakari reflects local knowledge concerning herbal remedies and underscores the convergence of traditional practices with contemporary health considerations.
55) Kapittha (Kapiṭṭha):
Commonly associated with Aegle marmelos, this fruit known as bael has numerous health benefits, particularly digestive. Understanding its role emphasizes the significance of local fruits in traditional medicine and their contributions to holistic health and wellness.
56) Narikela (Nārikela):
Referring to the coconut, Cocos nucifera, its uses extend beyond nutrition to numerous traditional remedies highlighting its role in hydration and overall health. This showcases the integration of local resources in dietary practices and their healthcare significance.
57) Ativisa (Ativisā, Ativiṣā, Ativisha):
The term refers to Aconitum heterophyllum, valued in traditional systems for its potent medicinal properties, particularly in pain relief and treating fever. This reflects the appreciation of specific flora for managing health concerns in indigenous medicinal practices.
58) Devadaru (Devadāru, Deva-daru):
The Himalayan cedar, Cedrus deodara, is notably recognized for its use in Ayurvedic practices, particularly in treating respiratory issues and enhancing mental clarity. This signifies the broader application of wood and essential oils in holistic healing approaches.
59) Kasheruka (Kaśeruka, Kaseruka, Kaserukā, Kaṣerukā):
Potentially linked to various regional herbs known for their medicinal properties, unveiling its specific identity underscores the importance of localized plant names in the broader context of herbal medicine. Its relevance emanates from traditional usages within specific communities.
60) Tintrini (Timtrini, Tintriṇī):
Typically acknowledged as an indigenous herb used in traditional remedies, recognizing this term showcases the cultural relevance attached to local plant names and their applications in healing practices among various communities.
61) Sharkara (Śārkara, Śarkarā, Śarkara):
Referring to sugar, particularly jaggery or raw sugar, used in traditional systems for its health benefits and as a remedy. This demonstrates how local food sources are deeply intertwined within wellness practices and stress the importance of diet in holistic approaches to health.
62) Nirgundi (Nirguṇḍī, Nirgumdi):
Commonly associated with Vitex negundo, this plant is recognized for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Highlighting Nirgundi in traditional contexts emphasizes the integration of local flora in addressing health issues, demonstrating the complex synergy between local plants and their medicinal roles in community health.
63) Khaskhas:
Referring to poppy seeds, this term reflects the culinary and medicinal values associated with the seeds of Papaver somniferum. Recognizing such seeds illustrates the crisscrossing practices of nutrition and traditional medicine, highlighting their broader roles in cultural herbology.
64) Elephant:
While not a traditional medicinal term, elephants symbolize strength and health in various cultural contexts. In traditional systems, animal elements may represent the integration of ecological knowledge juxtaposed against utility and health, further signifying the interconnectedness of nature and wellbeing.
65) Nymphaea:
Referring broadly to the family of water lilies, specific species such as Nymphaea nouchali highlight both beauty and medicinal use in traditional systems. Their role in healing practices represents the significance of aquatic plants in holistic health methodologies, merging aesthetics and utility.
66) Pippala (Pippalā):
A common name associated with Piper longum, recognized for its effects on respiratory health and digestion. The acknowledgment of this herb highlights the role of local flora in traditional systems and the continuous relevance of such plants in managing health conditions.
67) Manduki (Maṇḍūkī, Māṇḍuki, Maṇḍukī, Mamduki):
Referring to various medicinal plants, especially Centella asiatica, this plant underscores the importance of local plant knowledge in traditional healing. Its recognition showcases how regional flora retains significance in health practices, affirming the value of indigenous species in holistic wellness.
68) Dhataki (Dhātakī, Dhātaki):
Typically associated with the flower of Woodfordia fruticosa, its floral uses in traditional medicine for respiratory issues spotlight the significance of botany in cultural health systems. This highlights the rich diversity of medicinal plants utilized for various health benefits within the local flora.
69) Amalaka (Āmalaka, Āmālaka):
Another name for Emblica officinalis, a revered fruit known for its high vitamin C content and antioxidant properties. Its consistent presence in traditional practices underscores the importance of dietary sources in supporting overall health and wellness through natural means.
70) Ardraka (Ārdraka):
Refers to ginger (Zingiber officinale) and highlights its warming and digestive benefits in traditional contexts. Recognizing such terminology showcases the significance of common dietary plants in contributing to health through various culinary and medicinal applications.
71) Kairata (Kairāta):
Often identified with the herb Picrorhiza kurroa, recognized for its liver-protective properties in traditional medicine. Highlighting specific regional names reveals the deep-rooted knowledge surrounding local herbs and their vital roles in health maintenance across various cultures.
72) Jambira (Jambīra):
Referring to citrus fruits, particularly the benefits associated with their high vitamin C and digestive health properties. Recognizing such fruits across cultures demonstrates the integral role of nutrition in traditional health systems and the connection between food and medicine.
73) Trivrit (Tri-vrit, Trivṛt, Trivṛṭ):
Related to Operculina turpethum, this plant is valued for its purgative properties, often used in traditional medical formulations. Its inclusion signifies the significance of specific herbs in managing digestive conditions, illustrating the critical understanding of plant properties within indigenous practices.
74) Kulatha:
Referring to Dolichos biflorus, it holds nutritional significance and is utilized for its medicinal benefits in traditional systems. Recognizing legumes like Kulatha highlights how traditional diets intertwine with health practices, showcasing an awareness of nutrition's role in wellbeing.
75) Tambula (Tambūla, Tāmbūla):
The term relates to Piper betle, popularly known for its use in cultural traditions and health practices, particularly for oral health. This illustrates how cultural practices intertwine with medicinal understandings of local flora, demonstrating the integration of traditional knowledge with contemporary health applications.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 119]