Traditional remedies for kunmam(ulcer)- a review

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Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Traditional remedies for kunmam(ulcer)- a review
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Author:

G. Pratheep, D. Sowmeeyha and K. Elavarasan


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Traditional remedies for kunmam(ulcer)- a review

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20178-9185


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Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD), commonly referred to as a stomach or gastric ulcer, manifests as a break in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the intestine. It is categorized into gastric ulcers and duodenal ulcers based on their location. Standard treatments primarily involve medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers; however, their efficacy can be inconsistent and often comes with side effects. In traditional Siddha medicine, peptic ulcers are known as "kunmam," and various herbal remedies offer alternative therapeutic options that are believed to be effective without the adverse side effects associated with conventional medications.

Traditional Siddha Remedies for Kunmam

Numerous traditional remedies are identified in Siddha medicine for treating kunmam, particularly those that target increased “pitha” conditions, which are believed to exacerbate ulcers. Some significant herbal treatments include Indigofera tinctoria (Avuri), known for its bitter taste and effectiveness in curing kunmam through its root decoction, and Ricinus communis (aamanakku), whose therapeutic properties arise from castor oil, renowned for alleviating stomach ulcers. Furthermore, Zingiber officinale (inji) exhibits gastroprotective and antioxidant properties, making it a valuable ingredient in concoctions designed to promote digestive health and heal ulcers.

Efficacy of Bitter Herbs and Anti-Ulcer Activity

Increasing evidence suggests that bitter-tasting herbs hold significant therapeutic value for digestive ailments. Examples include Azadirachta indica (vembu), which possesses anti-gastric actions, and Aegle marmelos (vilvam), which demonstrates anti-secretory and anti-ulcerogenic properties. These herbs work by blocking acid secretion and promoting mucosal healing. Additionally, Ferula asafoetida (perungayam) and Allium cepa (vengayam) provide carminative and digestive benefits that further aid in the management of kunmam, emphasizing the role of bitter herbs in traditional treatment rituals.

Role of Combination Herbal Treatments

The concept of combining various herbs enhances their therapeutic potential, as seen in formulations like Thiripala, which combines three potent plants to provide holistic support against ulcers. Cuminum cyminum (seeragam) and Curcuma aromatica (kathoori manjal) are also notable ingredients that serve as carminatives and antioxidants in multi-ingredient preparations. These combinations highlight the synergetic effects of using multiple herbal remedies together, significantly improving their anti-ulcer efficacy and providing a more comprehensive approach to treatment.

Conclusion

Traditional herbal remedies represent a significant facet of Siddha medicine in treating kunmam (peptic ulcers). Through the exploration of historical texts and the evaluation of various plant properties, bitter, sweet, and acrid herbs emerge as highly effective components in therapeutic protocols against ulcers. The diverse array of remedies, including singular and combination treatments, underscores the rich heritage of traditional medicine and its potential in complementing modern treatment options. Continued research and documentation of these remedies could provide substantial insights into their effectiveness and integration into contemporary healthcare practices.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is a gastric ulcer, and what causes it?

A gastric ulcer is a break in the stomach lining, often caused by an imbalance of stomach acid production and protective factors, such as mucus. This condition can lead to pain, discomfort, and other gastrointestinal symptoms.

What does the Siddha system call stomach ulcers?

In Siddha medicine, stomach ulcers are referred to as 'kunmam.' This system classifies kunmam into various types based on underlying conditions, such as vayu kunma and pitha kunma.

What traditional remedies are effective for treating kunmam?

Traditional remedies for kunmam include various herbal preparations, such as the decoction of Indigofera tinctoria and Ricinus communis, which have properties to heal ulcers and reduce associated symptoms.

How do carminative herbs help with ulcers?

Carminative herbs aid digestion by reducing gas and bloating while providing soothing properties. They can help mitigate symptoms associated with increased pitha conditions in ulcers, promoting overall gastrointestinal health.

What are some examples of medicinal plants used?

Examples of medicinal plants for treating kunmam include Ricinus communis, Zingiber officinale, and Aegle marmelos, which possess gastroprotective, anti-ulcer, and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to effective treatment.

What is the conclusion regarding traditional remedies for ulcers?

The study concludes that herbal medicines with bitter, sweet, and acrid tastes, as found in traditional remedies, can effectively treat kunmam, supported by historical texts on herbal medicine.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Traditional remedies for kunmam(ulcer)- a 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) Ulcer:
An ulcer refers to a sore or lesion on the skin or a mucous membrane, often forming in the gastrointestinal tract, characterized by inflammation and tissue loss. In this context, gastric and duodenal ulcers are significant health concerns that traditional remedies, including Siddha medicine, aim to treat effectively.

2) Tamil:
Tamil is a Dravidian language primarily spoken in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and by the Tamil diaspora worldwide. It holds immense cultural and historical significance, serving as a medium for various traditional medicinal texts and practices, particularly those related to Siddha medicine for treating ailments like ulcers.

3) Bitter:
Bitter is one of the primary taste sensations, often associated with various medicinal herbs and plants. In the context of the document, many traditional remedies for ulcers are noted for their bitter taste, which is considered beneficial for digestive health and in balancing body humors, particularly in Siddha medicine.

4) Activity:
Activity in this context refers to the biological effects or therapeutic actions exhibited by various plants and compounds. Many herbal ingredients listed possess specific activities such as anti-ulcerogenic, carminative, or anti-inflammatory effects, contributing to their use in traditional medicinal practices.

5) Pitha:
Pitha refers to one of the three doshas in Ayurveda and Siddha systems, representing heat and metabolic processes in the body. An imbalance in Pitha is believed to contribute to various disorders, including ulcers, indicating the need for remedies that can regulate and harmonize this dosha.

6) Acrid:
Acrid describes a harsh or strong taste, often associated with certain medicinal plants. In traditional medicine, acrid herbs may stimulate digestion and counteract excess mucus, playing a role in treating conditions like ulcers by improving gastrointestinal functions and balancing humor.

7) Medicine:
Medicine refers to the science or practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing disease. The document discusses traditional remedies within Siddha medicine, emphasizing the importance of herbal treatments for conditions like ulcers, which may not be effectively managed by conventional pharmaceutical approaches.

8) Siddha:
Siddha is an ancient system of medicine that originated in Tamil Nadu, India, focusing on holistic healing and the balance of bodily humors. It includes various herbal remedies, lifestyle practices, and philosophical teachings aimed at treating ailments such as ulcers through natural methods.

9) Powder:
Powder refers to a finely ground substance used in various formulations, including herbal medicines. Many traditional remedies for ulcers involve powdered herbs, which can enhance bioavailability and effectiveness when consumed, playing a key role in Siddha therapeutic practices.

10) Sugar:
Sugar is a common sweetener used in various culinary and medicinal preparations. In the context of traditional remedies, sugar is often mixed with herbal formulations to improve palatability, thereby facilitating their consumption, especially when treating gastrointestinal issues like ulcers.

11) Cuminum cyminum:
Cuminum cyminum, commonly known as cumin, is an herb known for its culinary and medicinal properties. It exhibits carminative and antioxidant activities, making it a valuable remedy in Siddha medicine for alleviating digestive disorders and potentially providing relief from conditions like ulcers.

12) Phyllanthus emblica:
Phyllanthus emblica, also known as Indian gooseberry or Amla, is a highly regarded medicinal plant noted for its antioxidant and healing properties. It plays a crucial role in traditional medicine, particularly for its ability to promote digestive health and help in the treatment of gastric ulcers.

13) Castor:
Castor oil, derived from the Ricinus communis plant, is recognized for its laxative and anti-inflammatory properties. In traditional medicine, it is commonly used to treat ulcers due to its ability to coat the gastrointestinal lining and promote healing, emphasizing ancient approaches to digestive health.

14) India:
India is a country rich in traditional medicinal practices and diverse herbal remedies. The Siddha system, which is practiced predominantly in Tamil Nadu, reflects the nation’s cultural heritage and its extensive knowledge of plants used for treating ailments such as ulcers.

15) Sour:
Sour is a fundamental taste sensation pertinent to many fruits and herbs in traditional remedies. Sour tastes, often associated with detoxification and digestive stimulation, complement the other tastes found in various ulcer treatments, supporting holistic approaches to managing digestive health.

16) Drug:
In this context, drug refers to any substance used for medical treatment, including both pharmaceuticals and natural remedies. Various herbal formulations for treating ulcers can be considered traditional drugs, relying on natural compounds for their therapeutic effects rather than synthetic alternatives.

17) Terminalia chebula:
Terminalia chebula, known as haritaki, is a significant herb in Ayurveda and Siddha medicine. Renowned for its detoxifying, anti-ulcerogenic, and digestive properties, it is often used in formulations aimed at healing ulcers and improving overall gastrointestinal health.

18) Cyperus rotundus:
Cyperus rotundus, commonly known as nut grass, is an herb recognized for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In traditional medicine, it is used to alleviate ulcers and digestive discomfort, highlighting its importance in holistic health practices.

19) Piper longum:
Piper longum, or long pepper, is a spice with notable medicinal benefits. Often utilized in traditional Ayurvedic and Siddha formulations, it enhances digestion and absorption of nutrients, making it beneficial in treating gastric ulcers and improving intestinal health.

20) Tamarindus indica:
Tamarindus indica, commonly known as tamarind, is celebrated for its culinary and medicinal uses. With its sour taste and anti-ulcerogenic properties, tamarind is frequently employed in traditional remedies to provide relief from digestive ailments and promote gastrointestinal well-being.

21) Ricinus communis:
Ricinus communis, or castor bean, is a plant whose seeds yield castor oil, prized for its medicinal properties. In treating ulcers, it is valued for its ability to soothe the digestive tract and promote healing, signifying the integration of natural remedies in traditional medicine.

22) Aegle marmelos:
Aegle marmelos, known as bael fruit, is revered in traditional medicine for its anti-secretory and anti-ulcerogenic properties. Its use in Siddha remedies highlights the emphasis on natural substances to heal digestive disorders, offering alternatives to conventional treatments.

23) Inflammation:
Inflammation is the body's response to injury or irritation, often causing pain and discomfort. In the context of ulcers, inflammation of the gastric lining indicates the underlying issues that traditional remedies aim to address and alleviate using various herbal treatments.

24) Asafoetida:
Asafoetida, often referred to as hing, is a spice with distinctive flavor and numerous medicinal properties. Used in Ayurvedic and Siddha medicine, it possesses carminative, anti-inflammatory, and digestive benefits, making it relevant in treating conditions like ulcers and improving digestive comfort.

25) Tamilnadu (Tamil-nadu):
Tamilnadu is a prominent state in India rich in culture and traditional knowledge, particularly in the field of medicine. The state's diverse plant life and historical practices in Siddha medicine emphasize its crucial role in the study and application of herbal remedies for ulcers.

26) Kalyana:
Kalyana typically refers to auspicious or beneficial practices in Tamil culture. Within the context of Siddha medicine, kalyana may refer to practices or remedies that promote health and wellness, emphasizing the holistic approach taken to treat ailments such as ulcers.

27) Chennai:
Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu, is a major hub for traditional medicine. It serves as a center for academic and medicinal practices where Siddha medicine is taught and practiced, providing valuable resources and knowledge for treating conditions like ulcers.

28) Science (Scientific):
Scientific refers to approaches rooted in research and empirical data. It highlights the growing importance of integrating traditional medicine practices with modern scientific validation to enhance and support the efficacy of natural treatments for gastric issues like ulcers.

29) Kumar:
Kumar is a common name in India, often denoting a young male. In literature or medical texts, it may refer to a contributor or researcher involved in validating or documenting traditional medicine practices, emphasizing the modern integration of traditional knowledge.

30) Nelli:
Nelli, or Phyllanthus emblica, is an important medicinal plant in traditional Indian medicine. Revered for its health benefits, it is used for its anti-oxidant properties and plays a vital role in treating gastric ulcers, emphasizing its significance in Siddha herbal formulations.

31) Cukku:
Sukku refers to dried ginger, recognized in traditional medicine for its digestive and anti-inflammatory properties. Its use as a remedy for ulcers underscores the importance of incorporating aromatic and healing spices in Siddha treatments for digestive health.

32) Nadu:
Nadu translates to 'land' or 'country' in Tamil, often used to refer to regions rich in cultural or culinary significance. In medicinal discussions, Nadu emphasizes regional practices and herbal lore that inform traditional treatments for various ailments, including ulcers.

33) Puli:
Puli, meaning tamarind in Tamil, is a fruit with culinary and medicinal importance. Its sour taste and various health benefits make it a recurrent ingredient in traditional remedies for ulcers, showcasing the relationship between food and medicine in Siddha practices.

34) Kodi:
Kodi typically means 'chicken' in Tamil but can be contextually relevant in literature discussing food items or recipes. It can highlight the integration of dietary practices with medicinal purposes in traditional systems, stressing that food can also serve healing functions.

35) Food:
Food encompasses substances consumed for nourishment and health. In traditional medicine, the understanding of food's nutritional and medicinal qualities is pivotal, highlighting the importance of dietary practices to prevent or treat ailments such as ulcers.

36) Inji:
Inji refers to ginger, a root spice notorious for its aroma and flavor, commonly used in traditional remedies. Its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits make it essential in Siddha medicine for treating gastric ulcers and enhancing overall health.

37) Road:
Road, in a literal sense, refers to a pathway or route used for travel. In metaphor, it can signify the journey of knowledge transfer and evolution in medicine, where traditional practices evolve through time and adapt to modern contexts.

38) Zingiber officinale:
Zingiber officinale, or ginger, is a prominent herb used widely in various culinary and medicinal contexts. Its anti-inflammatory and gastroprotective qualities make it a valuable ingredient in traditional formulations for treating ulcers and digestive disorders.

39) Azadirachta indica:
Azadirachta indica, also known as neem, is a tree revered for its extensive medicinal applications. Its anti-gastric and healing properties make it a significant component in Siddha medicine, especially for treating ulcers, emphasizing the role of natural ingredients in health restoration.

40) Ferula asafoetida (Ferula assa-foetida):
Ferula asafoetida, commonly known as hing, is a pungent spice with significant health benefits. It is used in traditional medicine for its carminative and anti-inflammatory properties, making it valuable in the treatment of digestive issues, including ulcers.

41) Coconut water:
Coconut water is the clear liquid from green coconuts, celebrated for its hydrating and nutritional properties. Its inclusion in traditional medicine showcases the interplay between hydration and healing, particularly in digestive health and recovery from ailments like ulcers.

42) Indigofera tinctoria:
Indigofera tinctoria, also known as indigo plant, is recognized for its medicinal properties. It's utilized in traditional remedies for digestive issues, highlighting the diversity of plants in Siddha practices aimed at treating conditions such as gastric ulcers.

43) Limonia acidissima:
Limonia acidissima, or wood apple, is valued in traditional medicine for its digestive benefits. Its use in Siddha practices underlines the importance of various fruits in treating ailments, contributing to the holistic approach to health and wellness.

44) Michelia champaca:
Michelia champaca, a fragrant flowering tree, is often used in traditional medicine for its soothing properties. Its inclusion in ulcer treatments reflects the importance of aromatic plants in enhancing digestive health and promoting healing in Siddha medicine.

45) Embelia ribes:
Embelia ribes, known as false black pepper, is praised for its medicinal uses, particularly in promoting digestive health. Its incorporation in traditional remedies emphasizes the blend of flavor and therapeutic effects in managing conditions like ulcers.

46) Pharmacology:
Pharmacology is the branch of medicine that studies drugs and their effects on the body. Understanding the pharmacological aspects of traditional herbal remedies exemplifies the importance of scientific research in validating and enhancing the effectiveness of treatments for conditions such as ulcers.

47) Dravyaguna (Dravya-guna):
Dravyaguna is a branch of Ayurveda focusing on the properties and actions of medicinal substances. It evaluates the effectiveness of herbs and formulations in treating conditions, connecting traditional knowledge with modern scientific understanding of their therapeutic roles in ailments such as ulcers.

48) Srivastava (Sri-vastava, Shrivastava, Shri-vastava):
Srivastava is a common surname in India, often associated with professionals in the fields of medicine or research. In the context of medicinal literature, it may indicate a contributor to significant studies or traditional knowledge that underpins the relevance of certain treatments.

49) Yugimuni (Yugi-muni):
Yugi-muni refers to ancient sages in Tamil medicine that contributed to Siddha practices. Their teachings and classifications of ailments influence the understanding of conditions like ulcers, emphasizing the integration of spirituality and health in traditional wellness practices.

50) Cinnamon:
Cinnamon, a popular spice derived from the inner bark of trees, is noted for its medicinal properties. In traditional practices, cinnamon is recognized for its anti-ulcerogenic and digestive benefits, underlining the synergy of flavor and healing in herbal formulations.

51) Gingelly (Gingelli):
Gingelly, or sesame seed, is an integral component of various culinary and medicinal traditions. Known for its oil and nutritional benefits, it may be used in traditional remedies to soothe the digestive system and facilitate healing, particularly in ulcer treatments.

52) Swelling:
Swelling refers to the abnormal enlargement of body parts, often due to inflammation or fluid accumulation. In the context of ulcers, reducing swelling is crucial to alleviating discomfort and promoting healing, emphasizing the role of anti-inflammatory herbal remedies.

53) Tamarind:
Tamarind is a tropical fruit commonly used in culinary dishes and traditional remedies. Known for its sour flavor and digestive benefits, it plays a significant role in treating ulcers, exemplifying the relationship between food properties and medicinal applications.

54) Cayanti:
Sayanthi could refer to a name or contribute to discussions around traditional practices. Typically indicative of individuals involved in herbal medicine research, such as the study of specific plants and their roles in treating ailments like ulcers.

55) Vijnana:
Vijnana denotes knowledge or science in Sanskrit and Tamil. It emphasizes the understanding and study of medicinal practices and herbal drugs, enrichening traditional approaches to health and wellness through detailed explorations of herbal efficacy.

56) Tanjore:
Tanjore, a city in Tamil Nadu, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance in medicine. The region has contributed extensively to Ayurvedic and Siddha practices, paving the way for treatments utilizing herbal remedies for various health issues.

57) Disease:
Disease refers to any abnormal condition affecting the body’s structure or function, often leading to impairment in health. In traditional medicine, understanding disease through the lens of imbalances, such as Pitha in ulcers, is critical for appropriate treatment and intervention.

58) Species:
Species refers to a group of plants or organisms that share common characteristics. In traditional medicine, identifying species with therapeutic potential is vital for developing effective herbal formulations, particularly for treating specific conditions like ulcers.

59) Coconut (Cocoanut):
Coconut serves as a versatile ingredient in culinary and medicinal contexts. Its water, milk, and flesh are used in various traditional remedies, highlighting its role in promoting hydration and overall health, particularly in healing digestive disorders like ulcers.

60) Itching:
Itching denotes an uncomfortable sensation that often accompanies various conditions. Within the context of ulcers and digestive issues, addressing itching and inflammation becomes vital in ensuring comprehensive treatment and patient comfort, underscoring the holistic nature of herbal remedies.

61) Thomas:
Thomas is a common name, possibly referring to a researcher or author involved in studies related to traditional medicine. The contributions of individuals like Thomas enrich the knowledge surrounding herbal treatments and their applications for healing conditions like ulcers.

62) Bengal (Bemgal):
Bengal typically refers to a region in eastern India known for its cultural richness and contributions to literature and medicine. The inclusion of various traditional herbal practices from Bengal enhances the diversity of medicinal knowledge within India, particularly for treating ulcers.

63) Nausea:
Nausea is an unpleasant sensation often associated with various gastrointestinal disorders, including ulcers. Addressing nausea is crucial in the treatment of ulcers, as it significantly impacts overall well-being, highlighting the importance of remedies that alleviate these symptoms.

64) Sharman (Sarma, Sarman, Sharma):
Sharma is a common surname in India, often denoting individuals involved in academic or medical fields. The name may refer to a contributor to traditional herbal medicine literature, emphasizing the collaborative efforts in documenting and validating effective treatments for illnesses like ulcers.

65) Pittam (Pittham):
Pitham refers to a component of the Tamil Siddha and Ayurveda system that signifies heat and metabolic processes in the body. Acknowledging imbalances in Pitham is essential when addressing health issues such as ulcers, where specific herbal remedies are employed to restore balance.

66) Madhu:
Madhu translates to honey in Sanskrit and signifies sweetness and nourishment. It plays a key role in various traditional treatments, enhancing the palatability of herbal remedies while also providing potential healing properties in digestive health, particularly for stomach ulcers.

67) Joshi (Josi):
Joshi is a common surname in India, often associated with professionals in various fields, including medicine. It may refer to individuals engaged in research or documentation of traditional remedies, contributing to the broader understanding of herbal applications for health.

68) Ratha:
Ratha pertains to a chariot or vehicle in Sanskrit and Tamil, often symbolizing a journey. In a medicinal context, it can indicate the journey of knowledge transfer in herbal medicine practices, illustrating the evolution of traditional treatments over time.

69) Kalli:
Kalli refers to a traditional term used in Tamil medicine to denote specific actions or qualities of herbs. In treating ulcers, kalli indicates the therapeutic properties that certain herbs exhibit, emphasizing the importance of recognizing these qualities for effective herbal formulations.

70) Water:
Water is a vital component of life and health. In traditional medicine, its role as a solvent or carrier for herbal remedies underscores its importance, highlighting the need for adequate hydration in conjunction with herbal treatments for ailments like ulcers.

71) Honey:
Honey is a natural sweetener known for its medicinal properties. In traditional practices, it is commonly used to enhance the flavor of herbal remedies while also providing antibacterial and soothing properties that can aid in the healing of ulcers and improve digestion.

72) Study (Studying):
Study refers to the systematic investigation of phenomena or practices. In traditional medicine, a study of herbs and their effects underscores the importance of empirical knowledge, aiding in understanding the therapeutic advantages of herbal treatments for various conditions.

73) Burning (Burn, Burned, Burnt):
Burnt refers to a process that can change the properties of a substance. In this context, certain methods involve burning parts of plants to extract medicinal properties, emphasizing how traditional practices can vary in their application of heat to enhance herbal effectiveness.

74) Satti:
Sathi signifies a companion or partner in Tamil, often used in various cultural contexts. In the realm of traditional medicine, it may refer to the role plants or herbs play in enhancing therapeutic benefits when used in combination with other ingredients for ailments like ulcers.

75) Lemon:
Lemon is a citrus fruit known for its sharp sour flavor and high vitamin C content. In traditional medicine, lemon is utilized for its refreshing qualities and digestive benefits, offering therapeutic effects that support treatments for gastrointestinal issues, including ulcers.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 85]

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