Comparative study of Boerhavia diffusa vs. Enalapril in canine CRF.
Journal name: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine
Original article title: Comparative clinical evaluation of Boerhavia diffusa root extract with standard Enalapril treatment in Canine chronic renal failure
The Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine (JAIM) is an open-access publication promoting collaboration between Ayurveda, traditional medicine, and biomedicine, publishing research on integrative health sciences
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Nethaji Lokeswar Oburai, V. Vaikunta Rao, Ram Babu Naik Bonath
Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine:
(A monthly peer-reviewed publication)
Full text available for: Comparative clinical evaluation of Boerhavia diffusa root extract with standard Enalapril treatment in Canine chronic renal failure
Year: 2015 | Doi: 10.4103/0975-9476.166390
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-ND 4.0
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Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Comparative study of Boerhavia diffusa vs. Enalapril in canine CRF.”. 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) Disease:
Chronic renal failure (CRF) is a significant disease affecting dogs, leading to progressive kidney impairment that affects homeostasis. The study addresses the management of CRF and highlights herbal treatments' potential alongside conventional therapies, reflecting a growing focus on animal health and interventions for chronic diseases in veterinary medicine.
2) Blood:
Blood parameters such as serum creatinine, urea nitrogen, and electrolytes are essential indicators of kidney function. In the context of CRF, monitoring blood levels helps assess the disease's progression and response to treatments. Abnormal blood values signify the extent of renal dysfunction and guide therapeutic decisions.
3) India:
India serves as the geographical context for this study, where traditional Ayurvedic practices coexist with modern veterinary medicine. The use of plants like Boerhavia diffusa in treating canine diseases reflects the integration of indigenous knowledge and scientific research in improving animal health outcomes in the region.
4) Study (Studying):
The study is designed to evaluate the efficacy of Boerhavia diffusa root extract in managing CRF in dogs compared to standard enalapril treatment. It explores clinical outcomes, biochemical markers, and nephrosonographic changes, contributing valuable insights into effective treatments for a prevalent condition in veterinary practice.
5) Animal:
The research primarily focuses on dogs as its subjects, highlighting the importance of veterinary care and the need for effective treatments. Understanding animal responses to herbal therapeutics raises awareness about their welfare and the role of integrative medicine in enhancing health in non-human species.
6) Activity:
The term refers to the therapeutic actions of Boerhavia diffusa, which exhibits biological activities such as anti-hypertensive and diuretic effects. The study emphasizes the pharmacological properties of the herbal extract, contributing to the understanding of its potential benefits in managing CRF and related symptoms in dogs.
7) Table:
Tables in the study present crucial data summarizing blood pressure, hematological values, and biochemical profiles across different treatment groups and time intervals. They facilitate easy comparison and analysis of results, reinforcing the study's findings and enhancing the clarity of the data for readers and researchers.
8) Sign:
Sign refers to clinical indicators observed in dogs with CRF, such as increased blood pressure and decreased hemoglobin levels. These signs are critical for diagnosing kidney disease and measuring treatment response, underscoring the significance of clinical assessments in veterinary evaluations and management strategies.
9) Punarnava (Punarnavā, Punarṇava, Punar-nava):
Punarnava is another name for Boerhavia diffusa, a significant herb in traditional Indian medicine known for its nephroprotective properties. The term underscores the cultural relevance and historical use of the plant, connecting it to Ayurvedic treatments and its role in promoting kidney health in animals.
10) Drug:
The study explores the use of Boerhavia diffusa as a complementary therapeutic drug alongside enalapril in managing CRF. This highlights the broader context of developing integrative treatment strategies that combine traditional herbal remedies with contemporary pharmaceuticals to improve clinical outcomes in dogs suffering from chronic illnesses.
11) Blindness:
Blindness is mentioned as one of the severe clinical signs observed in dogs with advanced CRF. It reflects the systemic effects of kidney failure, potentially linked to hypertension or metabolic imbalances, emphasizing the need for timely interventions and comprehensive management of multi-faceted health issues in affected animals.
12) Suffering:
Suffering encapsulates the distress and negative impact on quality of life experienced by dogs with CRF, as indicated by clinical signs like vomiting and weight loss. The study's focus on treatment aims to alleviate such suffering, demonstrating the commitment to improving animal welfare and healthcare outcomes.
13) Tirupati (Thirupati, Tiruppaṭi):
Tirupati is the location associated with the study, indicating regional importance in veterinary research and practice. The city's role enhances its significance as a center for evaluating traditional remedies like Boerhavia diffusa, integrating local knowledge with modern veterinary science.
14) Himalaya (Himālaya, Hima-alaya):
Himalaya refers to the brand associated with the Punarnava herbal extract used in the study. The name is significant in promoting trust and quality in herbal products, reflecting the emergence of reputable companies that facilitate the use of traditional medicines in contemporary veterinary practices.
15) Vomiting:
Vomiting is a common clinical manifestation in dogs with CRF, linked to uremic toxicity. This symptom highlights the importance of managing gastrointestinal complications associated with kidney disease. Addressing vomiting through effective therapy contributes to improving overall health and quality of life in affected dogs.
16) Madhura (Madhurā, Mādhura):
Madhura, meaning sweet, is part of the Ayurvedic description of Boerhavia diffusa, indicating its inherent properties that may contribute to its healing effects. This term connects the study of herbal medicine to traditional Ayurvedic principles, highlighting the holistic approach to animal health and nutrition.
17) Water:
Water balance is crucial in managing kidney disease, as renal function directly influences hydration status. In CRF, dogs often experience altered thirst and fluid retention. The study's supportive fluid therapy emphasizes the importance of maintaining proper hydration to minimize the effects of renal failure and promote overall health.
18) Ulcer:
Oral ulcers are one of the clinical signs observed in dogs suffering from CRF, indicating potential uremic complications. The presence of ulcers highlights the significance of gastrointestinal health in renal disease and the need for comprehensive veterinary care to address such oral manifestations effectively.
19) Post:
Post refers to the follow-up evaluations conducted after treatment to assess the recovery and clinical improvements in dogs with CRF. Monitoring post-treatment outcomes is essential for determining the efficacy and safety of the therapeutic interventions applied in the study.
20) Raktapunarnava (Rakta-punarnava, Raktapunarnavā):
Raktapunarnava is a traditional Ayurvedic term for Boerhavia diffusa, emphasizing its role in promoting kidney health and regeneration. The term illustrates the cultural heritage of herbal remedies and their significance in contemporary treatments for renal failure in dogs.
21) Phytochemical:
Phytochemical refers to the active compounds found in Boerhavia diffusa that contribute to its therapeutic effects. Understanding these phytochemicals is essential in evaluating the efficacy of herbal treatments, promoting the integration of botanical remedies into veterinary practice for managing chronic health conditions.
22) Raktapushpa (Rakta-pushpa, Raktapuṣpa):
Raktapushpa is another traditional name for Boerhavia diffusa, reflecting its medicinal properties and cultural significance in Ayurvedic medicine. The term signifies the plant's recognition as a valuable resource for treating various ailments, including renal dysfunction in both human and veterinary contexts.
23) Observation:
Observation refers to the careful clinical assessments conducted throughout the study, enabling the tracking of changes in health parameters in dogs with CRF. Diligent observations ensure that the results are valid and reliable, contributing to the overall understanding of treatment effectiveness and potential benefits.
24) Kathillaka (Kaṭhillaka):
Kathillaka is an Ayurvedic term also associated with Boerhavia diffusa, highlighting its broad spectrum of traditional uses. The terminology ensures the study's cultural context, showcasing the significance of indigenous knowledge in managing renal health in animals using natural remedies.
25) Varshaketu (Varṣaketu, Varsha-ketu):
Varshaketu, another name for Boerhavia diffusa, signifies its adaptation and resilience in the Indian ecosystem. The reference to its various names underscores the plant's recognized therapeutic potential across different cultures and reinforces its relevance in Ayurvedic treatments for kidney health.
26) Shothahara (Śothahara, Shotha-hara):
Shothahara is a term from Ayurveda indicating the anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties of Boerhavia diffusa. The study emphasizes these properties, asserting the herb's role in managing renal inflammation and enhancing overall kidney function, linking traditional knowledge to contemporary veterinary practices.
27) Varshabhu (Varṣābhū, Varsha-bhu):
Varshabhu, yet another name for Boerhavia diffusa, highlights its significance in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. The diverse nomenclature underscores the plant's historical importance and widespread use in various geographical regions for treating a range of health conditions, including renal diseases.
28) Anulomana:
Anulomana refers to the herb's ability to promote proper digestion and nutrient absorption, which is vital for overall health. In the context of CRF, enhancing gastrointestinal function is essential for supporting the animal's nutritional needs and mitigating complications associated with reduced kidney function.
29) Substance:
Substance refers to the active components derived from Boerhavia diffusa that contribute to the therapeutic effects evidenced in the study. Recognizing these substances is integral to understanding how herbal remedies function and their applications in veterinary medicine for treating chronic illnesses.
30) Pesticide:
The term pesticide is mentioned in the context of the safety assessment of herbal substances, indicating the importance of ensuring that plant extracts are free from harmful chemicals. This reflects broader concerns regarding animal health and highlights the need for safe treatment options in veterinary medicine.
31) Ayurveda (Āyurveda, Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a traditional Indian system of medicine emphasizing the holistic approach to health and wellness, utilizing natural therapeutic agents like herbs. The study integrates Ayurvedic principles, showcasing the relevance of traditional practices in contemporary veterinary treatments and the management of chronic conditions like CRF.
32) Medicine:
Medicine refers to the broader discipline encompassing veterinary practice, including the use of pharmaceuticals and herbal treatments in managing diseases like CRF. The study showcases the collaboration of traditional and modern medicine, promoting integrative approaches to enhance animal health and therapeutic efficacy.
33) Teaching:
Teaching refers to the educational aspect of the veterinary clinical practices at the institution involved in the study. It emphasizes the importance of training future veterinarians in both conventional and traditional treatment modalities to better equip them for addressing diverse health issues in animals.
34) Kshudra (Kṣudrā):
Kshudra is a term associated with Boerhavia diffusa in Ayurveda, underscoring its classification within traditional herbal medicine. The use of such terms reflects the rich history of the plant's application in treating ailments and highlights the continued relevance of ancient knowledge in modern veterinary practices.
35) Kashaya (Kāṣāya, Kāśaya, Kāsāya, Kaṣāya, Kaśāya, Kāsaya, Kaṣāyā, Kasāya, Kasaya):
Kashaya, meaning astringent, describes one of the tastes associated with Boerhavia diffusa, contributing to its pharmacological profile. This term connects to the plant's therapeutic potential, reflecting the importance of taste profiles in Ayurveda when considering herbs for treating specific health conditions.
36) Company:
Company refers to the pharmaceutical manufacturers, such as Himalaya Drug Company, involved in producing the herbal extract used in the study. The association with reputable firms indicates a level of quality assurance and standardization in the herbal products being utilized for veterinary applications.
37) Science (Scientific):
Science denotes the systematic study and application of knowledge, including clinical research like this one involving Boerhavia diffusa. It highlights the ongoing efforts to integrate evidence-based approaches into veterinary medicine, ensuring that treatments for conditions like CRF are effective and grounded in scientific understanding.
38) Ruksha (Rūkṣa):
Ruksha, indicating dryness, is part of the Ayurvedic description of Boerhavia diffusa, pointing to its drying properties that may influence its therapeutic effects. Understanding these qualities is vital in evaluating the plant's suitability for treating various health conditions, including renal failure in dogs.
39) Ushana (Ūṣaṇa, Uśana, Uśanā, Uśānā, Uṣaṇa):
Ushana, signifying hot potency, describes another aspect of Boerhavia diffusa's nature. This term emphasizes the herb's warming properties in Ayurvedic medicine, essential for consideration in treatment formulations tailored for specific patient needs, especially in managing conditions related to kidney function.
40) Vipaka (Vipāka):
Vipaka refers to the post-digestive effects of substances as identified in Ayurveda, which plays a crucial role in determining how a herb like Boerhavia diffusa influences overall health. Understanding vipaka is essential for developing treatment protocols that align with ancient wisdom and contemporary practices in canine health.
41) Family:
Family refers to the botanical classification of Boerhavia diffusa within the Nyctaginaceae family. This classification is essential for identifying related species and understanding their potential uses and benefits in herbal medicine, fostering connections between traditional treatments and scientific classification methods.
42) Summer:
Summer denotes the season when Boerhavia diffusa regenerates, illustrating its resilience and adaptability. This characteristic is significant for considering the plant's life cycle in the cultivation and sustainable use of Ayurvedic herbs for medical purposes, particularly in regions with distinct seasonal changes.
43) Medium:
Medium refers to the size or type of animal, emphasizing that the study included a range of breeds. Understanding the differences in response to treatments across various sizes helps tailor veterinary interventions, enhancing the effectiveness of therapies for renal conditions across different dog breeds.
44) Dosha (Dosa, Doṣa, Dosā, Doṣā, Ḍosā):
Dosha refers to the Ayurvedic concept of bodily energies and their balance, crucial in considering the overall health of dogs. Integrating dosha principles in evaluating treatment options highlights the holistic approach of Ayurveda in managing chronic conditions and promoting wellness in animals.
45) Karma (Karman, Kārma):
Karma, in the Ayurvedic context, represents the action and its consequences. The study posits that understanding fulfilled actions through the use of Boerhavia diffusa can significantly impact treatment outcomes, connecting ancient philosophy with the practical applications of herbal medicine in animal health.
46) Laghu:
Laghu, indicating lightness, is associated with Boerhavia diffusa, suggestive of its properties in promoting vitality and restoring balance in the body. Understanding these characteristics is important in botanical medicine, particularly when used in conjunction with conventional treatments for managing renal disease.
47) Tikta (Tiktā):
Tikta, meaning bitter, outlines one of the taste profiles of Boerhavia diffusa. Acknowledging the various tastes and their corresponding therapeutic effects is essential in Ayurvedic practice, which underscores the holistic approach to using herbs for treating medical conditions in veterinary care.
48) Ushna (Uṣṇa, Uṣṇā):
Ushna, denoting heat, reflects the energetic quality of Boerhavia diffusa, influencing its medicinal applications. This understanding supports the Ayurvedic belief in the importance of matching an herb's qualities with the patient's condition for effective treatment, particularly in cases like renal failure.
49) Delhi:
Delhi is the capital city of India, referenced in the context of the study for conducting biochemical analysis using standard kits. This highlights the significance of urban centers in advancing veterinary research and the availability of sophisticated diagnostic resources to assess animal health and disease management.
50) Surata (Sūrata, Suratā, Surat, Su-rata, Shurata):
Surat is another Indian city noted for its role in providing diagnostic tools utilized in the study. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of cities in enabling veterinary research and enhancing practice through access to reliable resources that support the evaluation of treatment outcomes in chronic diseases.
51) Rasa (Rasā, Rasha):
Rasa refers to the taste or essence in Ayurvedic medicine, integral to the classification of herbs like Boerhavia diffusa. Understanding the taste profile aids in determining therapeutic actions and suitability for specific health issues, connecting dietary considerations with treatment strategies in veterinary care.
52) Vena (Veṇa, Veṇā):
Vena typically refers to veins in anatomical studies but might also emphasize the importance of understanding blood flow and circulation in renal function and treatment methods. Acknowledging such anatomical responses is crucial for tailoring veterinary interventions aimed at improving health conditions in dogs.
53) Dane (Ḍāṇe, Dané):
Dane refers to the breed Great Dane, included among the subjects in the study. Recognizing breed differences is essential in veterinary research as it acknowledges varying susceptibilities to diseases like CRF and guides tailored prevention and treatment approaches in canine healthcare.
54) Diet:
Diet is crucial in managing canine health, particularly in conditions like CRF, where nutritional balance can significantly affect the progression of the disease. The study emphasizes dietary modifications alongside pharmacological interventions, showcasing the holistic approach necessary for optimal kidney health management in dogs.
55) Hair:
Hair serves as a marker in nephrosonographic assessments, indicating the preparation for ultrasound imaging of the kidneys. Proper attention to grooming is essential in veterinary diagnostics, reflecting the importance of detailed background work before conducting studies and obtaining accurate results.
56) Wall:
Wall could reference the internal barriers or structures within diagnostic equipment used in the study. Understanding such aspects is key to ensuring accurate measurements and observations are made, which directly influences the interpretation of clinical data collected during the research.
57) Salt (Salty):
Salt intake is a crucial dietary consideration for dogs with renal issues, as excessive sodium can exacerbate hypertension and kidney damage. During CRF management, reducing salt intake becomes essential to alleviate symptoms and improve overall health outcomes, linking dietary guidelines to therapeutic interventions in veterinary medicine.
58) Pur (Pūr):
Poor refers to the limited prognosis often associated with chronic renal failure in dogs, framing the context of the study's goals. Addressing such dire outcomes motivates the exploration of alternative treatment strategies, highlighting the urgency of improving quality of life and clinical management for affected animals.