Phytotherapy of Skin Disease by Plants of Patalkot and Tamiya
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Phytotherapy of Skin Disease by Plants of Patalkot and Tamiya
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 by M.K. Rai and S.K. Upadhyay highlights the significance of ethnomedicinal studies in discovering new herbal treatments, particularly concerning superficial mycosis in the Chhindwara district of Madhya Pradesh, India. India’s rich biodiversity and traditional tribal medicine systems present a unique opportunity for investigating plant species used in local healing practices. Despite the effectiveness of plant-based treatments documented in historical Ayurveda, the increasing reliance on allopathic medicine threatens the preservation of indigenous knowledge about these medicinal plants.
Phytotherapy of Superficial Mycosis
One of the critical findings of this study is the identification of various local plants with potential antifungal properties against pathogens causing superficial mycosis, such as dermatophytes. The authors detail the use of multiple plants, including Azadirachta indica (Neem), Argemone mexicana, and others, which are employed by local tribes for treating skin diseases. The research indicates that some of these plants exhibit notable activity against fungi like Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Epidermophyton floccosum, suggesting that traditional herbal remedies could offer a viable alternative or supplementary method to current antifungal pharmaceuticals. The study emphasizes the necessity of conducting further in vitro and in vivo analyses to explore the active compounds within these plants and their potential efficacy as antimicrobial agents.
Conclusion
The authors conclude that despite the promising findings regarding the antifungal properties of indigenous plants, there is a notable decline in traditional knowledge as younger generations migrate towards urbanization. To combat fungal infections effectively and preserve ethnobotanical knowledge, establishing a Herbal Research Centre in Chhindwara is crucial. This center could facilitate the thorough investigation of ethnomedicinal plants for their therapeutic applications, ensuring that both local communities benefit from their traditional practices while contributing to broader scientific knowledge on herbal medicine. There is an urgent call for more extensive research into the pharmacological potential of local flora, strengthening the intersection of traditional medicine and modern scientific inquiry.
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.K Rai, S.K. Upadhyay
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Phytotherapy of Skin Disease by Plants of Patalkot and Tamiya
Year: 1997
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main focus of the study on skin diseases?
The study investigates the potential of plants from Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh, for curing superficial mycosis, particularly focusing on the antifungal properties of local herbal remedies used by indigenous tribes.
What types of infections are classified as superficial mycosis?
Superficial mycosis includes fungal infections affecting the outer skin layers, hair, and nails, particularly those caused by dermatophytes, which are commonly referred to as tinea infections.
What is the significance of ethnomedicinal studies in India?
Ethnomedicinal studies in India are crucial for discovering new herbal drugs and preserving traditional knowledge, particularly as many tribal populations still use local plants for healthcare.
Which plants are noted for treating skin diseases in the study?
The study highlights various plants, including Argemone mexicana, Azadirachta indica, and Calotropis procera, as being traditionally used for treating skin diseases among local populations.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Phytotherapy of Skin Disease by Plants of Patalkot and Tamiya”. 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) Activity:
Activity refers to the effectiveness of various plant extracts in inhibiting or killing fungi responsible for superficial mycosis. The research examines the antimycotic potential of local plants through in vitro testing, establishing a connection between traditional medicine and scientifically validated antifungal properties.
2) Drug:
Drug in this context refers to any medicinal substance that is used to diagnose, cure, treat, or prevent disease. In the paper, the focus is on both traditional herbal remedies from the Chhindwara region and modern antifungal agents that are employed against skin infections.
3) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses both traditional and modern practices aimed at maintaining health and treating diseases. This paper highlights traditional phytotherapy methods used by tribal communities and the need for further investigation into herbal medicine's potential in treating skin diseases effectively.
4) Madhya (Mādhya):
Madhya refers to Madhya Pradesh, a state in India that is rich in biodiversity and traditional medicinal practices. The paper's research focuses on the ethnobotanical knowledge of local tribes in this region, emphasizing the importance of local plants in treating skin diseases.
5) Leprosy:
Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae, often treated with a combination of antibiotics. Mention of leprosy within the context of traditional medicine highlights the historical use of local plants by tribal populations for treating chronic skin diseases.
6) Moth:
The term moth refers to the insect associated with the term 'tinea,' linked to ringworm infections. Historically, the lesions caused by dermatophytes resemble the holes made by moths in woolen garments; thus, the term 'ringworm' was derived.
7) Azadirachta indica:
Azadirachta indica, commonly known as Neem, is a significant plant in traditional medicine. Its leaves are reputed for their multiple health benefits, particularly for skin conditions, showcasing the integration of local flora in folk remedies to address skin diseases.
8) Ocimum sanctum:
Ocimum sanctum, also known as Holy Basil or Tulsi, is well-known in Ayurveda for its medicinal properties. It is highlighted in the study for its antifungal activity and traditional use in treating skin ailments, establishing its significance in local health practices.
9) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the analysis of findings in the context of existing literature and the implications for future research. This section examines the results of plant efficacy and encourages further exploration of ethnomedicinal practices and their applications in modern therapeutics.
10) Knowledge:
Knowledge pertains to the understanding of traditional medicinal practices and the important roles they play in healthcare, particularly among tribal communities. The paper stresses the significance of preserving and researching this indigenous knowledge before it is lost due to modernization.
11) Sharman (Śarma, Sarmā, Sarma, Sharma, Śarman):
Sharma likely references one of the researchers or contributors involved in the cited studies. Mentioning researchers emphasizes the collaborative nature of scientific inquiry in exploring plant-based therapies and highlights the contributions of various individuals to this field.
12) Worm:
Worm often relates to parasitic infections in the context of traditional medicines. Specifically, in this paper, it is connected to dermatophyte infections (like ringworm) that affect skin, hair, and nails, prompting the investigation of herbal treatments.
13) Milk:
Milk in the context of this paper usually refers to the latex from certain plants like Calotropis procera or Jatropha curcas, used externally in treating skin problems. It illustrates the diverse applications of plant secretions in ethnomedicinal practices.
14) Phyllanthus emblica:
Phyllanthus emblica, or Amla, is acknowledged for its health benefits, including skin health. The reference to Amla connects with the broader theme of evaluating various plants in the regional ethnomedicine of Madhya Pradesh that possess reputed medicinal properties.
15) Santalum album:
Santalum album, or sandalwood, is valued in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. In the research, its potential use in treating skin diseases is explored, reinforcing the importance of this plant in local health traditions.
16) Nerium indicum:
Nerium indicum, commonly known as oleander, is mentioned for its application against skin diseases. Its usefulness in traditional remedies emphasizes the role of local flora in addressing dermatological concerns and showcases the community's reliance on indigenous knowledge.
17) Madhuca indica:
Madhuca indica, or Mahua, is referenced for its traditional uses in treating skin issues. The inclusion of this plant underscores the diversity of flora in Madhya Pradesh and the importance of documenting their medicinal values in local healthcare systems.
18) Asparagus racemosus:
Asparagus racemosus, or Shatavari, is featured for its use in treating various health issues, including skin infections. It demonstrates the integrative approach of using plants in ethnomedicine for potential antifungal treatments in the local populace.
19) Plumbago zeylanica:
Plumbago zeylanica, known as Chitawar, is highlighted for its external applications against skin conditions like boils. Its mention reinforces the cultural significance of local plants and their medicinal applications in the communities of Chhindwara.
20) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibiotic denotes substances capable of killing or inhibiting the growth of bacteria. The paper discusses the reliance on antibiotics within the healthcare system while advocating for alternative, plant-based treatments that are accessible and culturally respected in local communities.
21) Ayurveda (Āyurveda, Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a traditional Indian system of medicine centered on balancing bodily systems through herbal remedies, diet, and lifestyle. The paper relates contemporary research to Ayurvedic practices, stressing the ongoing relevance of natural therapeutics in treating skin-related diseases.
22) Prasada (Prāsāda, Prasāda):
Prasada could refer to one of the contributors or researchers mentioned in the article, representing collaboration in pursuit of knowledge regarding traditional plant usage. Such mention highlights the academic and research communities involved in documenting local medicinal practices.
23) Science (Scientific):
Science signifies the systematic study of the natural world, including the effects of plant extracts and their medicinal properties. This paper merges ethnobotanical knowledge with scientific inquiry to validate traditional practices and advocate for innovative therapeutic approaches.
24) Arjuna:
Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna) is noted for its therapeutic properties, particularly in cardiovascular health. While not directly related to skin diseases, its inclusion in traditional practices highlights the diversity of plants utilized in local medicine, reinforcing the need for comprehensive botanical research.
25) Sharad (Śarad):
Sharad likely refers to an individual's contribution in the research process, possibly providing data or insights. Acknowledging contributors is essential in the academic field to appreciate collaborative efforts in advancing knowledge regarding local medicinal plants.
26) Shukla (Śukla, Śuklā, Suklā, Sukla):
Shukla may indicate a researcher involved in documenting ethnobotanical data. The mention of various researchers underlines the collaborative efforts required in studying and preserving traditional medicine practices while contributing to the scientific literature on herbal therapies.
27) Reason:
Reason refers to the justification for conducting the study, aiming to bridge traditional knowledge with modern medical practices. The urgent need for alternative antifungal treatments and the preservation of indigenous medicinal knowledge drives the inquiry presented in the paper.
28) Botany:
Botany is the scientific study of plants, essential for understanding their medicinal properties. The research emphasizes the importance of botany in validating and exploring the potential uses of local plants in treating skin diseases prevalent in tribal communities.
29) Gupta (Guptā):
Gupta likely refers to a researcher or contributor involved in collaboration, emphasizing the role of various scholars in enriching the study of local medicinal flora. Their collective expertise is important for documenting and validating ethnomedicinal practices.
30) Chaṇa (Chana):
Chana refers to chickpeas and is included for its use in local diets, showcasing the intertwining of traditional food practices and medicinal applications. The paper acknowledges the broader context of plant utility beyond just medicinal uses.
31) Mishra (Miśra):
Misra likely indicates a researcher participating in the studies discussed. The mention underscores the collaborative nature of academic research and highlights the contributions made to understanding traditional plant uses in treating skin diseases.
32) Kanji (Kāñjī, Kamji):
Kanji could refer to a folk medicine practice or specific ethno-botanical knowledge related to medicinal plants. The term reinforces the cultural significance of plant-based therapies in local populations, where traditional practices remain relevant.
33) Sama (Śama, Sāmā, Sāma, Shama, Samā):
Shama might refer to a researcher or contributor to the study. Recognizing individuals in the research process emphasizes the teamwork involved in uncovering and understanding the medicinal uses of local flora regarding skin diseases.
34) Kali (Kālī, Kāli, Kāḻi):
Kali represents a common name for various plants, such as Kali Tulsi. Mentioning it shows the cultural significance of names attributed to local flora and their roles in traditional medicine for various ailments.
35) Neem:
Neem is a highly regarded medicinal plant in Ayurveda with antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Its inclusion in the study signifies its prominent role in the treatment of skin ailments and highlights the continued reliance on traditional remedies.
36) Hand:
Hand symbolizes the manual methods often used in traditional medicine preparation, such as creating pastes or infusions from plant materials. It underscores the importance of craftsmanship and knowledge transmission in the application of plant therapies in local communities.
37) Salt (Salty):
Salt may refer to its use alongside herbal remedies. In traditional practices, salt is often utilized as a preservative or an adjunct to enhance medicinal efficacy. Its presence signifies the holistic approach to treatment among indigenous populations.
38) Soil:
Soil is fundamental for growing medicinal plants and reflects the connection between environment and health. Understanding local soil conditions aids in the cultivation of plants with therapeutic properties critical for sustainable traditional medicine.