"Bala (Sida Cordifolia): An Ayurvedic Literary Review"
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Ayurveda Medicinal Plant Bala (Sida Cordifolia Linn.) from Vedas, Samhitas and Nighantus: A Literary Review
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Bala, scientifically known as Sida cordifolia (Linn.), is a prominent medicinal plant belonging to the Malvaceae family, traditionally utilized in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. Commonly referred to by various vernacular names like Kharethi in Hindi and Baladana in Gujarati, Bala has been recognized for its therapeutic properties. This review explores the significant references to Bala in ancient texts such as the Vedas, Samhitas, and Nighantus, highlighting its various medicinal applications, properties, and formulations documented throughout Ayurvedic literature.
Therapeutic Properties and Medicinal Uses
Bala exhibits a wide range of therapeutic properties, including Vishaghna (to counteract poison), Grahi (to stop excessive discharge), and Rasayana (rejuvenation). In classical texts, it is categorized under various beneficial qualities such as Balya (strength promoting), Brihmana (nourishing), and Ojhovardhaka (enhancing vitality). Bala’s efficacy in treating different disorders is well established, being utilized in formulations like Basti, Peya, and Ghrita to address ailments such as Vatarakta (gout), Jwara (fever), and Vata-Vyadhi (Vata-related disorders). The plant is classified under multiple categories, revealing its diverse applications in Ayurvedic medicine.
Classification and Varieties of Bala
The classification of Bala in Ayurvedic texts is meticulous, with references to various types denoted as Baladvaya, Balatraya, Balachatushtaya, and Balapanchaya, each representing different combinations of medicinal plants. These classifications reflect the interconnectedness of various plants in traditional healing practices. Bala’s synonyms and classifications are documented across several Nighantus, showcasing its recognized importance in the herbal pharmacopoeia of Ayurveda. The detailed enumeration of its varieties helps practitioners select appropriate forms of treatment based on specific conditions.
Conclusion
In summary, Sida cordifolia (Bala) serves as an integral component of Ayurvedic medicine, affirmed by its extensive documentation in historical texts. The diverse therapeutic properties, coupled with its classification and medicinal applications, underscore the significance of this plant in traditional healing. A deeper understanding of Bala, as presented in the Vedas, Samhitas, and Nighantus, fosters appreciation for its role in health and wellness, prompting further investigation and validation of its benefits in contemporary medicine.
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.
Sukha Ram
Assistant Professor, Department of Dravyaguna Vigyana, Shri Shirdi Sai Baba Ayurved College and Hospital, Mundiyagarh, Kishangarh-Renwal, Jaipur, India.
Neetu Sharma
Assistant Professor, Department of Kayachikitsa, Shri Shirdi Sai Baba Ayurved College and Hospital, Mundiyagarh, Kishangarh - Renwal, Jaipur, India.
Mita Kotecha
Professor and Head, PG Department of Dravyaguna Vigyana, National Institute of Ayurveda, Deemed to be University (De Novo), Jaipur, India.
Krutika Chaudhary
Lecturer, PG Department of Dravyaguna Vigyana, National Institute of Ayurveda, Deemed to be University (De Novo), Jaipur, India.
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Ayurveda Medicinal Plant Bala (Sida Cordifolia Linn.) from Vedas, Samhitas and Nighantus: A Literary Review
Year: 2021 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v8i3.752
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
Download the PDF file of the original publication
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Sida cordifolia commonly known as in Ayurveda?
Sida cordifolia, known as Bala in Ayurveda, is a significant medicinal plant used for various disorders, attributed with multiple therapeutic properties such as Balya, Brihmana, and Rasayana.
How is Bala used in Ayurvedic formulations?
Bala is utilized in various forms, including Basti, Peya, Lepa, and Ghrita, to treat conditions like Vatarakta, Jwara, and Vyanga, as noted in classical Samhitas.
What are the medicinal properties of Bala as per ancient texts?
Ancient texts describe Bala with properties like Vishaghna, Kantikarka, and Grahi, highlighting its effectiveness in treating various disorders while being sweet in taste and possessing cooling effect.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “"Bala (Sida Cordifolia): An Ayurvedic Literary Review"”. 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) Bala:
Bala, also known as Sida cordifolia, is a medicinal plant in Ayurveda used for various ailments as described in Vedas, Samhitas, and Nighantus.
2) Taila (Thaila):
Taila refers to medicinal oil preparations used for external and internal therapies in Ayurveda, including oils like Bala Taila.
3) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita is clarified butter used in Ayurveda medicinal formulations, such as Bala Ghrita, for its therapeutic properties.
4) Basti:
Basti is an Ayurvedic therapy that involves administering medicated oils or decoctions through the rectum; Bala is used in various Basti treatments.
5) Vata:
Vata is one of the three primary doshas in Ayurveda governing movement and nerve impulses; Bala is used to manage Vata disorders.
6) Nighantu (Nighamtu):
Nighantu refers to classical Ayurvedic dictionaries or lexicons that document the properties and uses of medicinal plants like Bala.
7) Balataila (Bala-taila):
Bala-taila is an Ayurvedic medicated oil prepared using Bala, mainly used for treating Vata-vyadhi and other conditions.
8) Yoga:
[see source text or glossary: Yoga]
9) Samhita:
Samhita refers to ancient Ayurvedic texts that provide detailed information about the uses and properties of medicinal plants like Bala.
10) Baladi:
Baladi refers to formulations or lists containing Bala, often used for its Rasayana (rejuvenating) properties in ailments.
11) Roga:
Roga refers to diseases or ailments in Ayurveda; Bala is used to treat various Rogas including Vatarakta and Jwara.
12) Kasa (Kasha):
Kasa, or cough, is one of the conditions treated using formulations that include Bala in Ayurveda.
13) Sida (Shida):
Sida is the genus of Bala (Sida cordifolia), an important medicinal plant in Ayurveda.
14) Rajayakshma (Rajan-yakshma, Rajayaksma):
Rajayakshma, or tuberculosis, is treated using medications that include Bala as documented in Ayurvedic texts.
15) Vatarakta (Vata-rakta):
Vatarakta is a condition where Vata and Rakta (blood) are vitiated, treatable using Bala in various formulations.
16) Veda:
Veda refers to ancient Indian scriptures; Bala is mentioned extensively in Vedic literature like Atharva Veda.
17) Lepa:
Lepa refers to poultices or pastes used in Ayurveda for external applications, often using Bala for conditions like Vyanga.
18) Pana:
Pana refers to drinks or decoctions in Ayurveda, which may include Bala for its medicinal properties.
19) Vatavyadhi (Vata-vyadhi):
Vata-vyadhi refers to diseases predominantly caused by an imbalance in the Vata dosha, treatable with Bala.
20) Vyadhin (Vyadhi):
Vyadhi is a term for disease in Ayurveda; Bala is employed in managing multiple Vyadhis.
21) Balya:
Balya refers to strengthening or nourishing properties in Ayurveda; Bala is attributed significant Balya (strengthening) benefits.
22) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is the traditional Indian system of medicine that utilizes plants like Bala for treating various health conditions.
23) Raktapitta (Rakta-pitta):
Raktapitta denotes bleeding disorders in Ayurveda, treatable with formulations containing Bala.
24) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana signifies rejuvenation and longevity therapies in Ayurveda; Bala is a key ingredient in Rasayana practices.
25) Nasya (Nashya):
Nasya is nasal administration of medicated oils or powders in Ayurveda, often using Bala for therapeutic effects.
26) Peya:
Peya in Ayurveda refers to medicated gruels or decoctions; Bala is used in Peyas for various treatments.
27) Madhura:
Madhura means sweet taste in Ayurveda; Bala has a Madhura Rasa (sweet taste) as noted in Ayurvedic texts.
28) Atisara:
Atisara refers to diarrhea in Ayurvedic medicine, often treated with formulations containing Bala.
29) Dravya:
Dravya means substance or material in Ayurveda; Bala is a significant Dravya used for medicinal purposes.
30) Vataja (Vata-ja):
Vataja denotes disorders caused by Vata imbalance; Bala is used for its Vataja (anti-Vata) properties.
31) Karma (Karman):
Karma in Ayurveda denotes action or therapeutic effect; Bala has various therapeutic Karmas described in classical texts.
32) Jvara:
Jvara means fever in Ayurveda, a condition treatable with medicines containing Bala.
33) Varga:
Varga refers to a group or category; Bala is classified into various Varga in Ayurvedic Nighantus.
34) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa denotes the taste of a substance in Ayurveda; Bala is known for its Madhura (sweet) Rasa.
35) Niruhabasti (Niruha-basti):
Niruha-basti refers to a type of enematic treatment in Ayurveda where Bala is used for different therapeutic purposes.
36) Niruha:
Niruha refers to the non-oily or decoction enema in Ayurveda, for which Bala is often used.
37) Pittaja (Pitta-ja):
Pittaja disorders are those caused by an imbalance in the Pitta dosha; Bala is used for its Pittaja conditions.
38) Vikara:
Vikara means disorder or illness in Ayurveda; Bala is used to treat various Vikara.
39) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three primary doshas in Ayurveda governing metabolism; Bala is used to balance Pitta.
40) Rasnadi:
Rasnadi refers to formulations containing Rasna; Bala is included in these for treating Vata-related conditions.
41) Yavagu:
Yavagu is a category of medicated gruels in Ayurveda; Bala is used in such preparations for nourishment and healing.
42) Kshaya (Ksaya):
Kshaya is a term for depletion or wasting conditions like tuberculosis, treatable with Bala.
43) Kalpa:
[see source text or glossary: Kalpa]
44) Gulma:
Gulma denotes an abdominal lump condition in Ayurveda, effectively treated using Bala in formulations.
45) Pandu (Pamdu, Pamde):
Pandu relates to anemia in Ayurveda, and Bala is used in the treatment of Pandu Roga.
46) Sukha:
Sukha typically means happiness or ease; Dr. Sukha Ram is one of the authors of the article.
47) Carva:
Sarva means all or whole; Bala is used in formulations that target Sarva (all) doshas.
48) Visha (Visa):
Visha means poison; Bala has Vishaghna (anti-poison) properties as documented in Ayurveda.
49) Shiroroga (Siroroga, Shiras-roga):
Shiroroga refers to head diseases in Ayurveda; Bala is used in formulations for treating such conditions.
50) Visarpa:
Visarpa denotes an eruptive condition in Ayurveda, for which Bala is used in treatments.
51) Kvatha:
Kvatha means decoction in Ayurveda; Bala is often used to prepare Kvathas for various therapeutic purposes.
52) Sneha:
Sneha refers to oils or unctuous substances in Ayurveda, used in treatments like Bala Taila Snehapana (internal oleation).
53) Virya:
Virya means potency or efficacy in Ayurveda; Bala is known for its Shita (cool) Virya.
54) Vrana:
Vrana refers to wounds or ulcers; Bala is used in formulations for Vrana-ropana (wound healing).
55) Guna:
Guna means quality; Bala has Snigdha (unctuous) and Laghu (light) Guna, among others.
56) Atibala:
Atibala is another related plant to Bala, used similarly in Ayurvedic treatments.
57) Vrishya (Vrsya):
Vrishya means aphrodisiac; Bala is used for its Vrishya properties to enhance reproductive health.
58) Pralepa:
[see source text or glossary: Pralepa]
59) Kashaya (Kasaya):
Kashaya refers to astringency or decoction in Ayurveda; Bala is used to prepare Kashayas.
60) Kshira (Ksira):
[see source text or glossary: Kshira]
61) Vyanga (Vyamga):
Vyanga denotes hyperpigmentation; Bala is used in treatments for managing Vyanga.
62) Jaipur:
Jaipur is a city in India, where institutions like the National Institute of Ayurveda are located, contributing to the study of Bala.
63) Drug:
Drug refers to medicinal substances; Bala is a significant drug used in Ayurveda for its numerous health benefits.
64) Prajasthapana (Praja-sthapana):
[see source text or glossary: Prajasthapana]
65) Parisheka (Pariseka):
[see source text or glossary: Parisheka]
66) Pittahara (Pitta-hara):
Pittahara refers to substances that alleviate Pitta dosha; Bala is included for its Pittahara properties.
67) Nagabala (Naga-bala):
Nagabala is often grouped with Bala in Ayurvedic texts and used in similar therapeutic contexts.
68) Abhyanga (Abhyamga):
Abhyanga is the practice of massaging the body with medicinal oils; Bala Taila is used for Abhyanga.
69) Mahabala (Maha-bala):
Mahabala is another plant related to Bala and used in Ayurvedic medicine for its therapeutically potent properties.
70) Trishna (Trsna):
Trishna refers to excessive thirst; Bala is used in formulations to alleviate Trishna.
71) Hridaya (Hrdaya):
Hridaya means heart; Bala is included in formulations to support Hridaya (cardiac) health.
72) Pradeha:
[see source text or glossary: Pradeha]
73) Snigdha:
Snigdha means unctuous or oily; it is one of the Gunas of Bala used in Ayurvedic treatments.
74) Vipaka:
Vipaka refers to post-digestive taste; Bala has Madhura (sweet) Vipaka.
75) Family:
Family in taxonomy refers to the group in which Bala belongs; Bala (Sida cordifolia) is part of the Malvaceae family.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 351]