Nomenclatural confusion of some species of andrographis wall
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Nomenclatural confusion of some species of andrographis wall
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 nomenclatural confusion surrounding various species of the medicinal plant genus Andrographis, particularly Andrographis paniculata, A. alata, and A. lineata. These plants are significant in traditional Indian medicine for treating a variety of ailments, but inconsistencies in their vernacular and botanical names have led to difficulties in their identification and use. This study aims to clarify the correct botanical identities of these species and to address the varying names attributed to them across different Indian medicinal traditions.
Clarifying Nomenclatural Confusion
One key issue highlighted in the study is the use of the Tamil vernacular names "Periyanangai" and "Siriyanangai," which causes confusion among the species of Andrographis and Polygala. While A. paniculata is commonly known as Nilavembu and Kalmegh in Ayurveda, the names Periyanangai and Siriyanangai have been attributed interchangeably to different species of both Andrographis and Polygala. This overlaps not only complicates the medicinal applications but also affects the accuracy of plant collection by practitioners and researchers. It is recommended that A. paniculata be consistently referred to by the Ayurvedic name Kalmegh, reserving common names for specific plants to enhance identification and usage clarity in both local and commercial contexts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the findings underscore the importance of standardizing nomenclature in traditional medicine to avoid confusion and ensure accurate identification and application of medicinal plants. The study advocates for a clearer assignment of names among the species within Andrographis and Polygala to facilitate better understanding and utilization of these plants in the Indian herbal market. By addressing these nomenclatural inconsistencies, practitioners, collectors, and researchers can enhance the effectiveness of herbal treatments and align their practices with accurate botanical classifications.
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. Balu, C. Alagesaboopathi
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Nomenclatural confusion of some species of andrographis wall
Year: 1995
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Andrographis paniculata commonly known as in Ayurveda?
In Ayurveda, Andrographis paniculata is commonly known as Kalmegh. This name helps differentiate it from other similar medicinal plants, reducing confusion in herbal markets.
What are the vernacular names of Andrographis species in Tamil?
In Tamil, Andrographis paniculata is called Nilavembu, Periyanangai, and Siriyanangai. Andrographis alata and A. lineata are also referred to as Periyanangai.
What medicinal properties are attributed to Andrographis species?
Andrographis species are valued for their febrifuge, tonic, liver protective, and antivenom properties. They are frequently used in traditional medicine practices for treating ailments like dysentery and malaria.
Why is there confusion regarding the nomenclature of Andrographis species?
Nomenclatural confusion arises due to the different names assigned to the same plants and vice versa. The local names often overlap with those of other species, complicating identification in herbal practices.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Nomenclatural confusion of some species of andrographis wall”. 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:
Drug refers to a substance used in the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of diseases. In the context of the article, valuable drugs are derived from medicinal plants like Andrographis paniculata and Polygala species, highlighting their therapeutic properties and significance in traditional Indian medicine systems such as Ayurveda and Siddha.
2) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing illness. The paper emphasizes the importance of accurately identifying medicinal plants like Andrographis species, which are integral to various traditional medical practices in India, thus bringing to light the interconnection between plant science and therapeutic applications.
3) Bitter:
Bitter is a taste profile, significant in the context of medicinal plants. Plants like Andrographis paniculata are categorized as bitter herbs, which are valued in traditional medicine due to their therapeutic benefits such as febrifuge and tonic properties, assisting in treatment and healing processes in various ailments.
4) Siddha (Siddhā):
Siddha is one of the ancient systems of medicine in India, originating from Tamil Nadu. It uses a variety of herbs and minerals for healing. The paper discusses the vernacular names associated with Siddha medicine, illustrating its application of plants like Andrographis in traditional therapeutic practices.
5) Mahatikta (Maha-tikta, Mahātikta, Mahātiktā):
Mahatikta is a Sanskrit term meaning 'great bitter.' It is one of the vernacular names for Andrographis paniculata. The use of such terms highlights the importance of bitter constituents in Indian herbal medicine, emphasizing their role in treating various health issues, particularly through the Siddha and Ayurvedic systems.
6) Bhunimba (Bhūnimba, Bhu-nimba):
Bhunimba is another Sanskrit name for Andrographis paniculata, underscoring the plant's significance in traditional medicine. The terminology reflects the historical understanding and classification of medicinal plants, representing their use in various therapeutic contexts, especially in Ayurveda, where nomenclature holds cultural and medical importance.
7) Kalyani (Kalyāṇī, Kalyāṇin, Kalyāṇi, Kalyānī, Kalyanin):
Kalyani is a name associated with the species A. alata mentioned in the article. The relevance lies in the nomenclatural confusion that frequently arises in traditional medicine, illustrating the need for clarity to avoid misidentification and enhance the proper use of these medicinal plants among practitioners and collectors.
8) Science (Scientific):
Science refers to the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world. In the context of this paper, botany and the accurate identification of medicinal plants demonstrate the application of scientific methods to verify traditional knowledge and rectify nomenclatural discrepancies for effective herbal usage.
9) Botany:
Botany is the branch of biology dealing with the study of plants. This paper is focused on the botany of Andrographis species, their classification, and vernacular names, showing how botanical research is crucial in understanding the medicinal properties and correct identification of plants used in traditional health practices.
10) Milk:
Milk in this context refers indirectly to Polygala arvensis, which is commonly known as Common Indian Milk Wort. Its inclusion in the paper exemplifies the common vernacular naming challenge for different plant species and emphasizes the relevance of accurate identification in traditional medicine practices and pharmacognosy.