Screening selected Ayurvedic medicines for antibacterial and antifungal activity
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Screening of selected single and polyherbal Ayurvedic medicines for Antibacterial and Antifungal activity
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
Traditional medicine across cultures extensively utilizes various plants, with many current drugs originating from herbal sources. This study focuses on the antimicrobial activity of four Ayurvedic formulations: Amalaki choorna, Yastimadhu choorna, DN-90, and Asanadi Kwatha choorna. These formulations contain active phytochemical constituents, such as alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds, which are believed to exert physiological effects on the human body. The increasing concern regarding antibiotic resistance has reaffirmed the importance of exploring plants with antimicrobial properties, particularly in the realm of Ayurvedic medicine, which has incorporated the use of these plants over centuries to treat infections and various ailments.
The Role of Phytochemicals in Antimicrobial Activity
One significant finding from the study is the notable efficacy of Amalami choorna in inhibiting bacterial growth, showcasing a zone of inhibition comparable to that of the standard drug, Streptomycin. The antibacterial activity was assessed using the disc diffusion method among various Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Additionally, the antifungal efficacy of the formulations was evaluated through the Poison food technique, revealing that Amalaki choorna produced considerable antifungal effects, especially against Mucor sp. The active principles in these Ayurvedic formulations are likely responsible for their antimicrobial activities, suggesting that the therapeutic potential of these plant-derived agents remains significant and warrants further investigation.
Conclusion
This study provides evidence supporting the antimicrobial properties of Ayurvedic formulations, emphasizing their potential as alternative treatments for microbial infections. The results indicate that both single and polyherbal preparations can inhibit the growth of resistant bacterial strains. Particularly, Asanadi Kwatha choorna and DN-90 showed promising antimicrobial activity in addition to their known anti-diabetic benefits. This research may pave the way for further in vivo trials to validate these findings, highlighting the importance of integrating traditional herbal knowledge with modern scientific exploration for better healthcare outcomes.
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.
T.R Prashith Kekuda, R Kavya, R.M Shrungashree, S.V Suchitra
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Screening of selected single and polyherbal Ayurvedic medicines for Antibacterial and Antifungal activity
Year: 2010
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the focus of the study regarding Ayurvedic medicines?
The study investigates the antibacterial and antifungal activities of Ayurvedic drugs containing single herbs like Amalaki Choorna and Yastimadhu Choorna, as well as combination preparations like DN-90 and Asanadi Kwatha Choorna.
How was the antibacterial activity assessed in this research?
The antibacterial activity was assessed using the disc diffusion method, where test bacterial suspensions were inoculated onto agar plates, and the extent of inhibition of bacterial growth around the drug-impregnated discs was measured.
What were the key findings regarding antifungal activity?
The study found that among the tested drugs, Amalaki Choorna showed significant antifungal activity against Mucor sp, while other formulations also displayed varying degrees of inhibition against fungi like A. niger and A. oryzae.
What substances in plants contribute to their antimicrobial activities?
The antimicrobial activities of the tested Ayurvedic drugs could be attributed to various bioactive compounds present in the plants, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic compounds.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Screening selected Ayurvedic medicines for antibacterial and antifungal activity”. 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:
The term 'activity' refers to the biological effects exhibited by various substances or compounds, especially in the context of their ability to inhibit microbial growth. In the study, antimicrobial activity is assessed through different methods to evaluate the effectiveness of Ayurvedic drugs against bacteria and fungi, demonstrating their potential medicinal properties.
2) Drug:
In this context, 'drug' refers to substances, particularly those derived from plants, that possess therapeutic properties and are utilized in the treatment of diseases. The Ayurvedic drugs investigated here, such as Amalaki and Yastimadhu, exemplify traditional remedies that have been validated for their antibacterial and antifungal activities.
3) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibiotics are substances used to treat bacterial infections by inhibiting the growth of bacteria. Given the study's focus on the antimicrobial activity of traditional Ayurvedic drugs, it underscores the importance of finding effective natural alternatives to synthetic antibiotics, especially in the face of rising drug resistance.
4) Amalaki:
Amalaki, or Emblica officinalis, is a key Ayurvedic herb known for its rich vitamin C content and antioxidant properties. It features prominently in the study as one of the single herb preparations tested, showcasing its potential antimicrobial effects against various bacteria and fungi, including its notable inhibition zones.
5) Yashtimadhu (Yastimadhu, Yashti-madhu):
Yastimadhu, commonly known as Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), is recognized in traditional medicine for its therapeutic properties. Its aqueous extract was tested for antimicrobial activity in the study, highlighting its relevance in Ayurvedic practices and potential utility in combating infections due to its bioactive components.
6) Medicine:
The word 'medicine' signifies the science of health and healing, involving various practices, products, and therapies aimed at preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases. This study examines Ayurvedic medicines, emphasizing their heritage and the need for scientific evaluation of their efficacy in modern healthcare.
7) Science (Scientific):
In this context, 'science' refers to the systematic study of the natural world through observation, experimentation, and analysis. The research employs scientific methodologies to explore the antimicrobial properties of Ayurvedic drugs, reinforcing the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with scientific validation for broader acceptance.
8) Substance:
The term 'substance' encompasses any material or compound, particularly those that exert specific biological effects. In this study, various plant-based substances are investigated for their antimicrobial properties, underscoring how different phytochemicals contribute to the therapeutic effects of traditional Ayurvedic remedies.
9) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine originating in India, focusing on holistic health and the use of natural substances for healing. The study highlights Ayurvedic formulations, illustrating the relevance of traditional herbal knowledge in current medical research, particularly regarding their antimicrobial activities.
10) Gupta:
Gupta refers to one of the authors of the referenced study. The inclusion of specific names signifies the collaborative effort of researchers in the field of microbiology and pharmacology, contributing to the credibility and scholarly value of the findings shared in the published work.
11) Tinospora cordifolia:
Tinospora cordifolia, also known as Giloy, is an important herb in Ayurveda with reputed immunomodulatory effects. This plant extract has been noted in the study as one possessing significant antimicrobial properties, emphasizing the need for more research on its pharmacological potential.
12) Emblica officinalis:
Emblica officinalis, commonly referred to as Amalaki, is a prominent herb in Ayurveda celebrated for its antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects. Mentioned in the study, it was tested for antimicrobial activity, demonstrating its relevance in traditional medicine as a potent herbal remedy.
13) Cow urine (Cow's urine):
Cow urine is noted in traditional medicine, especially in Ayurveda, where it is believed to possess healing properties. Its mention reflects the broader context of alternative therapies being explored for antimicrobial activity, highlighting the diversity of natural remedies and their potential roles in health.
14) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological relates to the branch of medicine that deals with the study of drug action and the effects of substances on biological systems. This study investigates the pharmacological properties of Ayurvedic drugs, linking traditional herbal preparations with their potential therapeutic benefits against microbial infections.
15) Phytochemical:
Phytochemicals are bioactive compounds derived from plants that can have beneficial effects on health. In this study, the phytochemical constituents of Ayurvedic drugs are investigated for their antimicrobial properties, affirming the role of natural plant compounds in contemporary therapeutic practices.
16) Discussion:
The 'discussion' section within research papers analyzes the results obtained and contextualizes them within existing literature. It allows researchers to interpret their findings, explore implications for future studies, and evaluate the relevance of traditional practices in modern medicine, as seen in this investigation.
17) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are a class of plant secondary metabolites with well-documented antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Their relevance in the study connects to the phytochemical analysis of Ayurvedic drugs, providing insight into the types of compounds that may contribute to their observed antimicrobial activity.
18) Mukunda (Mukumda):
Mukunda is noted as one of the collaborators in the research study. Highlighting individual contributions underscores academic collaboration and the shared knowledge base necessary for exploring complex subjects like antimicrobial activity in herbal medicine.
19) Coconut (Cocoanut):
Coconut, a versatile tropical plant, is often referenced for its numerous health benefits, including potential antimicrobial properties found in oil and extracts. By exploring its applications alongside traditional Ayurvedic herbs, it represents the convergence of dietary practices and medicinal uses.
20) Siddha:
Siddha is another traditional medicinal system in India, closely related to Ayurveda but with its distinct approaches and practices. Its mention in the study emphasizes the diversity of indigenous medical knowledge and the potential insights gained from comparing different herbal practices.
21) Insect:
Insects can serve as vectors for diseases, highlighting the relevance of antimicrobial strategies in controlling infections. This term reflects the broader ecological context where such medicinal preparations might provide advantages in natural pest and disease management, adding value to traditional remedies.
22) Vidya:
Vidya, meaning knowledge or wisdom, often connotes the insights gained through learning and experience, particularly in Ayurveda. This reflects the study’s emphasis on integrating traditional knowledge with scientific inquiry, reinforcing the value of holistic understanding in health and wellness practices.
23) Water:
Water is a fundamental solvent and medium for various biochemical reactions. In the study, it serves as an extraction solvent for preparing aqueous herbal extracts, playing a vital role in solubilizing bioactive compounds for evaluating the antimicrobial activity of herbal formulations.
24) Vamshi (Vamsi):
Vamsi is acknowledged as one of the contributors to the study, highlighting the collective effort in researching Ayurvedic drugs. This reflects the collaboration among academia and provides insight into the research methodologies applied to investigate their medicinal properties.
25) Neem:
Neem is a widely recognized plant in traditional medicine known for its potent antibacterial and antifungal properties. Its inclusion signifies the importance of plant-derived remedies in Ayurveda, warranting further exploration of its efficacy and application in managing microbial infections.