Botanical notes on herbs used in Kerala's Ayurvedic medicine: Sooranam.
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Botanical notes on the identity of certain herbs used in ayurvedic medicines in kerala 鈥� iv: sooranam
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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V. V. Sivarajan, Indu Balachandran
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Botanical notes on the identity of certain herbs used in ayurvedic medicines in kerala 鈥� iv: sooranam
Year: 1987
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
This article elucidates the identity of the Ayurvedic herb "Sooranam," known as 'Chena' in Malayalam, which has a long history of medicinal use in Indian traditional medicine. The study provides insights into the botanical nomenclature and distinctive features of both wild and cultivated forms of this herb. The authors, V. V. Sivarajan and Indu Balachandran, emphasize the therapeutic properties of Sooranam and its importance in Ayurvedic formulations.
Distinguishing Characteristics of Sooranam
One important concept discussed is the differentiation between the wild and cultivated forms of Sooranam. Ayurvedic literature distinguishes two varieties: Vana Soorana (wild) and Soorana (cultivated), with the wild form being considered more efficacious due to a higher abundance of calcium oxalate crystals. Contemporary Ayurvedic practitioners mistakenly attribute the drug's identity to Amorphophalus campanulatus, while current botanical knowledge identifies both wild and cultivated forms as varieties of Amorphophalus paeoniifolius. The wild form is described as having a deep green petiole with spine-like structures, while the cultivated form has a smoother, lighter green petiole. This distinction is crucial for accurately identifying and using the herb in medicinal practices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the identity and classification of Sooranam are significant in Ayurvedic medicine, influencing its application and therapeutic effectiveness. The research highlights the need for precise botanical understanding to avoid misidentification, ensuring that practitioners utilize the correct species for medicinal purposes. This work not only clarifies the botanical taxonomy surrounding Sooranam but also underscores the broader implications for traditional medicine practices and the importance of accurate botanical classification in herbal pharmacopoeia.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the identity of the drug 'Sooranam' in Ayurveda?
'Sooranam', also known as 'Chena' in Malayalam, is considered the best tuber in Ayurveda. It has medicinal properties, being used for conditions like asthma, piles, and rheumatic pains. The wild form is deemed more potent than the cultivated one.
What are the distinguishing features of Sooranam's wild and cultivated forms?
The wild form (Vana Soorana) of Sooranam has a deeply ribbed petiole with more calcium oxalate crystals, making it more efficacious. In contrast, the cultivated form (Chena) is smoother and contains fewer irritant properties.
Which scientific names are associated with Sooranam?
The wild Sooranam is classified as Amorphophalus paeoniifolius var. paeoniifolius, while the cultivated form is Amorphophalus paeoniifolius var. campanulatus. Both belong to the family of Araceae, with different characteristics and uses.
What historical sources reference the plant Sooranam?
Historical references, including Van Rheede's 'Hortus Malabaricus', describe the plant types 'Schena', 'Katouschena', and 'Mulan-schena'. Recent studies clarified the botanical identity, linking them to the Tacca leontopetaloides and Amorphophalus species.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for 鈥淏otanical notes on herbs used in Kerala's Ayurvedic medicine: Sooranam.鈥�. 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) Drug:
The term 'drug' refers to the substance derived from plants or other sources that is used for medicinal purposes. In the context of Ayurveda, 'Sooranam' is identified as a significant herbal drug noted for its therapeutic qualities in treating various ailments related to digestion, respiratory issues, and blood diseases.
2) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing illness. In the Ayurvedic tradition, 'Sooranam' is part of a holistic approach, emphasizing natural remedies derived from herbs like 'Soorana' to promote health and well-being through the balance of body systems.
3) Ayurveda (膧yurveda, Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that emphasizes a holistic approach to health. It utilizes natural herbs, dietary practices, and lifestyle modifications. The identification and use of 'Sooranam' in Ayurvedic treatments highlight the medicinal value of specific plants in maintaining bodily harmony.
4) Bitter:
The term 'bitter' in the context of 'Sooranam' relates to the taste of certain plant tubers, which can indicate their medicinal properties. Bitter compounds are often linked to therapeutic effects, including digestive aid and detoxification, underscoring the significance of flavor profiles in Ayurvedic pharmacology.
5) Vana (Va峁嘺, V膩na, V膩峁卆):
'Vana' translates to 'wild' in Malayalam, distinguishing the wild form of 'Sooranam' from its cultivated counterpart. The wild variant is considered more potent in medicinal applications due to its higher concentration of beneficial compounds, particularly calcium oxalate crystals, which are believed to enhance its efficacy.
6) Discussion:
'Discussion' refers to an analytical examination of botanical and medicinal identities. The relevance in this context is evident in the discourse surrounding the classification and properties of 'Sooranam' and associated species, facilitating a greater understanding of their therapeutic roles in Ayurveda and correct identification in taxonomy.
7) Vishtambhin (Vi峁ａ弓ambhin, Vishtambhi, Vi峁ａ弓ambh墨):
'Vistambhi' refers to a therapeutic property associated with 'Sooranam,' indicating its constipating effect. In Ayurveda, understanding specific traits like 'Vistambhi' helps practitioners utilize herbs effectively for conditions such as piles and digestive disturbances, showcasing the importance of individual herb characteristics in treatment strategies.
8) Vomiting:
Vomiting is a symptom indicating underlying health issues, which can sometimes be treated with herbal remedies. 'Sooranam' is noted for its stomachic properties, with its use in Ayurvedic medicine potentially alleviating symptoms related to gastrointestinal disorders, including nausea and vomiting.
9) Elephant:
'Elephant' in this context refers to 'elephantiasis,' a condition mentioned alongside the medicinal benefits of 'Sooranam.' Its inclusion highlights the traditional use of this herb in Ayurveda to address serious ailments, demonstrating the culture鈥檚 reliance on specific plants to combat various diseases.
10) Pungent:
The term 'pungent' describes the strong flavor profile of 'Sooranam' tubers. In Ayurveda, pungent tastes are often linked to stimulating digestive fire and enhancing appetite, supporting the use of such herbs in treatments aimed at improving digestive health and overall vitality.
11) Science (Scientific):
'Science' in this context refers to the systematic study and classification of medicinal plants and their properties. The examination of 'Sooranam' within both botanical and Ayurvedic frameworks emphasizes the fusion of ancient knowledge with contemporary botanical science in identifying plant identities and therapeutic uses.
12) Vaidya:
'Vaidya' translates to 'physician' in Ayurveda, highlighting the role of practitioners who utilize medicinal plants like 'Sooranam' in their therapies. Vaidyas are responsible for understanding herbal properties and prescribing appropriate treatments, emphasizing the human element in traditional healing practices.
13) Gulma:
'Gulma' refers to a term used in Ayurveda describing tumors or masses in the body. The mention of 'Sooranam' in treating 'gulma' signifies its application in herbal remedies aimed at addressing abnormal growths, illustrating the practical usages derived from the knowledge of plant properties.
14) Pliha (Pl墨h膩):
'Pliha' refers to the spleen in Ayurvedic terminology, an organ associated with various functions, including blood filtration. 'Sooranam' is noted for its therapeutic role in treating spleen enlargement, showcasing the plant鈥檚 relevance in addressing specific organ-related ailments within Ayurvedic practices.
15) Kanda (Ka峁囜笉a, Kand膩, Kamda):
'Kanda' refers to the tubers or roots of certain plants used in herbal medicine. The focus on 'Sooranam' draws attention to the significance of specific plant parts in Ayurvedic remedies, emphasizing the therapeutic qualities of tubers as essential components of treatment formulations.
16) Blood:
In the Ayurvedic context, 'blood' refers to its importance in overall health and diagnosing ailments. 'Sooranam' is cited for its beneficial effects on blood diseases, thereby underlining the significance of herbal treatments in managing various blood-related conditions through natural remedies.
17) Acrid:
'Acrid' describes a sharp or pungent quality of certain plant materials, including 'Sooranam.' This characteristic indicates the plant鈥檚 potent effects in medicinal applications, where acrid properties can stimulate digestion and circulation, illustrating how sensory attributes relate to therapeutic efficacy.
18) Indu (Imdu):
'Indu' in this context refers to one of the authors of the study. The presence of researchers like Indu Balachandran signifies a collaborative effort in documenting and validating traditional herbal practices, ensuring that Ayurvedic knowledge is preserved and adapted within the botanical and scientific communities.
19) Katu (Ka峁璾, K膩tu):
'Katu' translates to 'pungent' in Ayurveda, describing a specific flavor profile associated with certain herbs. It helps classify 'Sooranam' based on its taste, linking flavor characteristics to their physiological effects, which is essential for practitioners in selecting the right remedies for treatment.
20) Shala (S膩l膩, S膩la, 艢ala, 艢膩l膩, 艢膩la, Sala):
'Sala' refers to the context of the Arya Vaidya Sala, an institution known for its work in Ayurveda. This institution鈥檚 efforts in documenting, researching, and promoting Ayurvedic practices validate the importance of traditional knowledge in contemporary health systems.
21) Vina (Vin膩, V墨峁嚹�, V墨n膩, Vi帽a, Vi峁壞�):
'Vina' means 'without' in Sanskrit, referencing conditions or qualities related to treatments. This term encapsulates the holistic approach in Ayurveda, where the focus is on restoring balance and health, highlighting how specific herbs like 'Sooranam' contribute to overall wellness without adverse effects.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: 鈥�Botanical notes on herbs used in Kerala's Ayurvedic medicine: Sooranam.鈥�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Ayurvedic medicine, Piles treatment, Active ingredient, Cultivated form, Phytochemical studies, Contemporary Ayurveda, Medical Use, Amorphophallus, Calcium oxalate crystal, Blood diseases, Rheumatic pain, Irritant properties.
Concepts being referred in other categories, contexts and sources.
External character, Enlargement of spleen.