Nephroprotectors- folk medicine of rayalaseema andra pradesh
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Nephroprotectors- folk medicine of rayalaseema andra pradesh
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 paper discusses the traditional medicinal practices of the folk in Rayalaseema, Andhra Pradesh, specifically focusing on plants used for treating kidney ailments. The authors, S. Vedavathy and K. N. Rao, categorize the medicinal plants into two groups: those that control urination and those that dissolve stones in the urinary bladder. The rich collective wisdom of these communities is highlighted, showcasing their reliance on long-standing herbal remedies, which often serve as alternatives to modern medicine for chronic conditions.
Traditional Nephroprotectors
One important concept presented in the paper is the categorization of plant drugs that control urination. For example, Pedalium murex is used in combination with cumin seed powder to regulate urination, while traditional remedies also include Pongamia glabra, the powdered flowers of which are taken until the pain subsides. Other notable plants include Syzygium cumini, whose seeds are boiled to create a decoction, and Cassia auriculata, whose roots and bark are utilized in various preparations to alleviate urinary issues. The detailed dosages and preparation methods underline the systematic approach of folk medicine, relying on specific plant parts and combinations for therapeutic effects.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the folk medicinal practices of Rayalaseema offer a rich repository of knowledge that addresses kidney ailments using various plant drugs. The paper provides insight into the careful selection of herbs based on local traditions, exemplifying how the community's historical experience informs their healing practices. While modern medicine continues to evolve, these traditional remedies provide valuable alternatives for managing chronic kidney conditions, emphasizing the importance of integrating indigenous knowledge with contemporary healthcare approaches.
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.
S. Vedavathy, K.N. Rao
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Nephroprotectors- folk medicine of rayalaseema andra pradesh
Year: 1990
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What are nephroprotectors in folk medicine used in Rayalaseema?
Nephroprotectors in Rayalaseema are medicinal plants utilized by villagers for treating kidney ailments, categorized into those controlling urination and those dissolving urinary stones.
How is Pedalium murex used to control urination?
The dried plant of Pedalium murex is powdered and mixed with cumin seed powder. It's taken daily in doses of 10 grams, 2 to 3 times until normal urination is achieved.
What plants are used to dissolve kidney stones?
Plants like Tribulus terrestris and Syzygium cumini are used in decoctions. They are combined and taken regularly until the pain subsides or the stones dissolve.
How is Asparagus racemosus prepared for kidney health?
The tuberous roots of Asparagus racemosus are powdered and mixed with Tribulus terrestris. A decoction is prepared from this mixture and taken twice daily for a week.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Nephroprotectors- folk medicine of rayalaseema andra pradesh”. 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) Water:
Water serves as a fundamental solvent in the preparation of decoctions from various medicinal plants used in traditional therapies. It is vital for extracting active compounds from plants, ensuring that the medicinal properties are effectively delivered to the body, enhancing the efficacy of treatments for kidney ailments.
2) Glass:
The term 'glass' refers to the vessel used for measuring and consuming medicinal decoctions. In traditional medicine, precise measurements are critical for effective dosages. Glass also symbolizes the transparency and clarity of herbal preparations, allowing users to observe the contents and ensure proper administration.
3) Drug:
In this context, 'drug' refers to the plant-based remedies utilized for treating kidney-related ailments. These natural substances have therapeutic properties that alleviate symptoms, dissolve stones, and regulate bodily functions. Understanding the pharmacological effects of these drugs is essential for effective traditional medicine practices.
4) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses the practices, knowledge, and substances used to diagnose, prevent, and treat illnesses. In the folk medicine of Rayalaseema, indigenous knowledge contributes to the development of natural remedies, emphasizing a holistic approach to health. It highlights the intersection of culture, tradition, and healing.
5) Pindi (Piṇḍī, Piṇḍi, Pimdi):
Pindi, or Konda Pindi, denotes a specific plant used in traditional remedies. Its incorporation into treatments for nephrocalcinosis underscores the significance of local flora in folk medicine. This highlights the importance of understanding native plants and their uses in promoting health and addressing specific ailments.
6) Sugar:
In traditional medicine, sugar is often added to herbal preparations to enhance palatability and facilitate ingestion. It balances the bitterness or astringency of certain herbs, making them easier for patients to consume. Therefore, sugar plays a supportive role in the acceptability of herbal remedies.
7) Cuminum cyminum:
Cuminum cyminum, commonly known as cumin, is an important spice frequently used in traditional remedies. Its carminative properties aid in digestion and enhance the effectiveness of other medicinal ingredients. Cumin's inclusion in the formulations underscores the interconnectedness of culinary practices with therapeutic applications.
8) Sugandha (Sugandhā, Su-gandha, Sugamdha):
Sugandha refers to 'Sugandha pala' or Hemidismus indicus, a medicinal plant known for its therapeutic properties. Its use in treating kidney stones emphasizes the reliance on indigenous plants in folk medicine. The term also links to cultural and local identity tied to medicinal practices.
9) Arati (Arāti, Ārati, Ārāti, Āṟāṭi):
Arati refers to the plant Musa paradisiaca, known for its nutritional and medicinal value. Its rhizome juice is used in treatments to alleviate kidney conditions. The incorporation of Arati underscores the importance of local agricultural resources in the development of effective health remedies in traditional medicine.
10) Jambu (Jambū):
Jambu is another name for Syzygium cumini, a medicinal plant recognized for its therapeutic properties, particularly in treating urinary ailments. Its inclusion in folk medicine reflects the ethnobotanical knowledge passed down through generations, showcasing the integration of local flora in maintaining health.
11) Borax:
Borax, used as an additive in some decoctions, is valued for its mineral properties that may facilitate the dissolution of stones in the urinary system. Its incorporation into traditional remedies illustrates the practical knowledge of chemical compounds in enhancing the effectiveness of medicinal preparations.
12) Pala (Palā, Pāla):
Pala refers to the plant Sugandha pala (Hemidismus indicus), utilized in various health remedies. The essence of Pala residing in its traditional usage indicates the depth of herbal medicine's reliance on local flora, providing insights into both historical context and practical applications in health.
13) Milk:
In traditional herbal remedies, milk often acts as a carrier for medicines or as a soothing agent that enhances the therapeutic effects of plants. Its role signifies the blending of nutritional practices with medicinal usage, promoting overall wellness and ease of consumption in therapeutic applications.
14) Azadirachta indica:
Azadirachta indica, known as neem, is revered for its numerous health benefits, including its effectiveness in regulating kidney function. Its presence in folk remedies illustrates the significance of this versatile plant in mitigating various ailments, showcasing traditional knowledge regarding its therapeutic uses for health.
15) Asparagus racemosus:
Asparagus racemosus, commonly known as shatavari, is valued in traditional medicine for its adaptogenic and diuretic properties. Its incorporation into folk remedies signifies the plant's revered status in herbal healthcare, demonstrating the emphasis on natural solutions to promote well-being and treat specific ailments.
16) Tribulus terrestris:
Tribulus terrestris, also called Gokshura, is an integral component in folk medicine for urinary disorders. Its effective role in dissolving kidney stones highlights the reliance on specific plant properties in traditional health practices, making it a significant resource for addressing nephrocalcinosis.
17) Plumbago zeylanica:
Plumbago zeylanica, known as Chitraka, is recognized for its properties in traditional medicine, particularly for urinary conditions. The historic and cultural significance of this plant in folk remedies illustrates the deep-rooted knowledge embedded in the practice of herbal medicine and its efficacy in local health care.
18) Sesamum indicum:
Sesamum indicum, or sesame, holds culinary and medicinal importance. Its use in the preparation of traditional remedies reflects the integration of food and medicine, highlighting the multifaceted role of plants in promoting health through both nutritional and therapeutic means in local practices.
19) Syzygium cumini:
Syzygium cumini, referred to as Jambu, is noted for its beneficial effects on urinary health. Its incorporation into folk medicine illustrates the reliance on specific plant properties to address ailments, highlighting the knowledge and practices deeply embedded within local herbal traditions.
20) Kakodumbara (Kākodumbara, Kākoḍumbara):
Kakodumbara, or Ficus hispida, is recognized in the folk medicine of Rayalaseema for treating kidney ailments. Its traditional use underscores the importance of regional flora in healing practices, bridging the gap between local ecological knowledge and health management methodologies.
21) Knowledge:
Knowledge in this context refers to the accumulated wisdom regarding the use of medicinal plants passed down through generations in folk medicine. It signifies the blend of empirical observation and cultural beliefs that underpin traditional healing practices, illustrating a rich heritage in health care that remains relevant.
22) Gokshura (Gokṣura, Go-kshura):
Gokshura refers to Tribulus terrestris, a vital plant in Ayurvedic and folk medicine known for its benefits in urinary health. Its application in remedies for kidney stones and other urinary issues showcases the importance of this particular herb in holistic approaches to health and healing.
23) Shravani (Śrāvaṇī, Srāvaṇī):
Sravani refers to Sphaeranthus indicus, a key botanical in traditional medicine. Its use in remedy formulations reflects a broader understanding of the local biodiversity and its therapeutic potentials, emphasizing the culture's connection to the natural environment and reliance on indigenous knowledge for health practices.
24) Karanja (Karañja, Kārañjā, Karamja):
Karanja, or Pongamia glabra, is noted for its medicinal properties within folk remedies. Its relevance highlights the diversity of plant usage in traditional healing, showcasing how specific plants are selected for their benefits in managing health conditions, particularly those affecting the urinary system.
25) Pasana (Pāṣāṇa, Pāsāṇa, Pashana):
Pashana, represented by Aerva lanata, is acknowledged in folk medicine for its effectiveness in treating urinary disorders. This highlights the significance of specific plants in local medicinal practices and the role of traditional knowledge in identifying natural solutions to health challenges.
26) Science (Scientific):
Science, in the context of traditional medicine, refers to the systematic study and understanding of plants and their medicinal properties. The folk practices documented reflect an empirical approach to healing, where knowledge is collected, tested, and refined over time, bridging traditional and modern scientific perspectives.
27) Kadali (Kadalī):
Kadali refers to Musa paradisiaca, notable for its nutritional and therapeutic applications. Its juice is used in traditional remedies, showcasing the blending of culinary and medicinal practices in local health strategies, emphasizing the contributions of this plant in promoting well-being.
28) Palasha (Palāśa, Palāsa, Palasa, Palāśā, Pālāśa, Pala-asha):
Palasa, or Butea frondosa, holds significance in the formulations of medicinal decoctions. Its role in treating ailments highlights the reliance on native plants for therapeutic purposes, reinforcing the connection of local communities to their natural resources for health care practices.
29) Botany:
Botany signifies the study of plants, which is crucial for understanding medicinal properties and traditional uses. The folk medicine practices documented reflect a deep-rooted botanical knowledge, illustrating the importance of plants in health care and the cultural significance of sharing this knowledge through generations.
30) Shariba (Sāribā, Sariba, Śāribā):
Sariba refers to Hemidismus indicus, particularly known for its use in folk remedies. The recognition of Sariba underscores the importance of specific native plants in treating urinary issues, demonstrating the role of traditional medicinal practices in addressing health conditions prevalent in the region.
31) Avisha (Aviṣa):
Avisa, or Sesbania grandiflora, is incorporated in traditional remedies, highlighting the significance of local flora in health management. Its use in folk medicine illustrates how community practices utilize available resources to address health concerns, fostering a connection between nature and wellness.
32) Nimba (Nīmbā):
Nimba, known as Azadirachta indica or neem, exemplifies the intersection of culture, agriculture, and medicine. Its extensive use in traditional remedies underscores the respect and value given to this plant, highlighting its role in promoting health and well-being among local populations.
33) Vama (Vāma, Vāmā):
Vama refers to the plant Coleus amboinicus, recognized for its medicinal properties. Incorporation into folk remedies reflects the reliance on local plants for treating various ailments, showcasing how traditional practices utilize botanical resources to enhance health and address specific medical conditions.
34) Musha (Musa, Musā, Mūṣā, Muṣā, Musá):
Musa refers to the genus encompassing banana plants, particularly Musa paradisiaca. Its significance in traditional remedies underscores the value placed on dietary plants in promoting health, illustrating the blend of nutritional and medicinal practices deeply rooted in the local culture.
35) Salt (Salty):
Salt is often used in folk medicine to enhance the efficacy of herbal treatments or as a preservative. Its inclusion in remedies highlights the practical knowledge regarding mineral balance necessary for health, demonstrating how culinary practices intersect with traditional health care in local settings.