Estimation of sterols from dashmula

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Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Estimation of sterols from dashmula
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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Author:

N.D. Grampurohit, M.R. Baichwal, C.I. Jolly


Ancient Science of Life:

(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)

Full text available for: Estimation of sterols from dashmula

Year: 1992

Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Dashmula is a significant Ayurvedic preparation composed of ten roots, utilized in various formulations such as Dashmulakwatha, Dashmularishta, and Dashmulaghrta. This combination of roots, which includes species like Desmodium gangeticum, Uraria lagopoides, and Tribulus terrestris, is used therapeutically to address ailments associated with vata, pitta, and kapha doshas, including catarrhal fever and inflammatory conditions within the chest. The individual phytochemical screening of these roots has revealed the presence of sterols, prompting the investigation into the sterol content of Dashmulakwatha using High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) technique.

Phytosterol Content Estimation

The study aimed to quantitatively determine the phytosterol content of Dashmulakwatha, specifically focusing on β-sitosterol as a standard. After preparing a decoction from an equal proportion of the ten roots, a concentrated alcoholic extract was subjected to HPTLC analysis. The results indicated that the preparation contained 7.165% w/w of phytosterols. This substantial phytosterol content supports the traditional belief in Dashmula's application as an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agent, underlining the relevance of this ancient formulation in contemporary herbal medicine.

Conclusion

The findings demonstrate the efficacy of Dashmulakwatha in delivering significant levels of phytosterols, particularly β-sitosterol, which may play a crucial role in its therapeutic benefits. The study emphasizes the importance of traditional Ayurvedic preparations like Dashmula, not only in historical contexts but also in modern herbal practices. The authors acknowledge the support received throughout the research, highlighting the collaborative effort in analyzing the health-promoting properties of this ancient formulation.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is Dashmula and its components?

Dashmula is an Ayurvedic preparation consisting of ten roots, including Desmodium gangeticum and Tribulus terrestris. It is used in various formulations for treating health issues related to vata, pitta, and kapha doshas.

What method was used to estimate sterols in Dashmula?

The researchers used High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) to estimate the total phytosterol content of Dashmula, specifically with respect to β-sitosterol as a standard.

What was the estimated phytosterol content in Dashmula?

The study found that Dashmula contained 7.165% w/w of phytosterols, indicating its potential anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

What is the significance of β-sitosterol in this study?

β-sitosterol served as a reference standard in the study for estimating the total sterol content in Dashmula, providing a benchmark for comparison.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Estimation of sterols from dashmula”. 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) Solanum xanthocarpum:
Solanum xanthocarpum, also known as Yellow Berries or Gokharu, is one of the ten roots used in the Ayurvedic preparation Dashmula. This plant is recognized for its therapeutic properties, especially in treating cough and fever, supporting the anti-inflammatory uses of the Dashmulakwatha preparation in traditional medicine.

2) Solanum indicum:
Solanum indicum is another important root in the Dashmula formulation. Its medicinal properties contribute to the overall efficacy of Ayurvedic treatments. Generally used for respiratory issues, its inclusion enhances the blend's ability to address ailments related to vata and pitta doshas, reinforcing its holistic therapeutic approach.

3) Stereospermum suaveolens:
Stereospermum suaveolens, known as the 'Honduras Mahogany', is part of the Dashmula mix. This root is valued in Ayurveda for its effectiveness in treating various inflammatory conditions, particularly involving the respiratory system, making it essential for the anti-inflammatory actions attributed to Dashmulakwatha.

4) Desmodium gangeticum:
Desmodium gangeticum, commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine, is one of the ten roots in Dashmula. Renowned for its potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, it aids in the treatment of diseases associated with vata and pitta doshas, further justifying its inclusion in this traditional health formulation.

5) Tribulus terrestris:
Tribulus terrestris, included in Dashmula, is noted for its health benefits, particularly its role in promoting general well-being and vitality. Its inclusion is thought to enhance immune response and provide support during treatments for various ailments, especially those linked to imbalances in bodily doshas.

6) Gmelina arborea:
Gmelina arborea, also known as White Teak, contributes to the medicinal properties of Dashmula. It is traditionally utilized for its health benefits in treating respiratory disorders and has potential anti-inflammatory properties, making it a vital ingredient for the holistic approach of Ayurvedic therapeutics.

7) Aegle marmelos:
Aegle marmelos, or Bael, is significant in Ayurvedic practices and is included in the Dashmula formulation. Known for its digestive benefits and ability to balance pitta dosha, its medicinal properties complement the overall effects of the preparation, enhancing its therapeutic potency.

8) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibacterial refers to the ability of substances to inhibit bacterial growth, important in the context of the research as high phytosterol content in Dashmula may contribute to its antibacterial properties. This is crucial for ancient medicine's effectiveness against infections and maintaining health.

9) Phytochemical:
Phytochemical refers to bioactive compounds derived from plants, responsible for various therapeutic effects observed in traditional medicine. The study highlights the presence of phytosterols in Dashmula, showcasing the importance of these compounds in its preparation and effectiveness as a health remedy.

10) Discussion:
Discussion indicates the section where findings are critically evaluated. In the context of this study, it summarizes the implications of the phytosterol content in Dashmula, reflecting on its therapeutic applications and reinforcing the traditional uses of Ayurvedic formulations based on scientific evidence.

11) Science (Scientific):
Science in this context underscores the methodological approach taken to validate the efficacy of a traditional herbal preparation. The use of HPTLC to quantify phytosterols provides empirical support for the therapeutic claims of Dashmula, marrying ancient wisdom with modern scientific validation.

12) Pitta (Pītta, Piṭṭā):
Pitta is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, representing fire and metabolism. Imbalances in pitta can lead to inflammatory conditions. The study of Dashmula highlights its role in balancing pitta dosha, aiding in treatments for associated ailments prevalent in traditional Ayurvedic practices.

13) Kapha:
Kapha is another dosha in Ayurveda, associated with structure and stability. Excess kapha can result in respiratory issues and other health problems. The formulation of Dashmula aims to regulate kapha, especially in concoctions like Dashmulakwatha, for holistic healing and balance in the body.

14) Water:
Water is a vital component in the preparation of herbal remedies. In this context, it is used to extract the active constituents from Dashmula roots during decoction processes. The method of extraction is critical in ensuring the efficacy of the bioactive compounds present in the formulation.

15) Vata (Vāṭa, Vaṭa, Vāta, Vaṭā):
Vata is the third dosha in Ayurveda, linked to movement and responsiveness. Imbalances in vata can lead to various ailments, particularly digestive and respiratory issues. Dashmula is specifically devised to address vata disturbances, making it a key element in Ayurvedic therapeutic practices.

16) Drug:
Drug in this context refers to the phytochemical constituents derived from Ayurvedic preparations like Dashmula that exhibit therapeutic properties. The study assesses the preparation's potential as a natural drug, evaluating its effectiveness and safety within the framework of traditional medicine.

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