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Studies on some south indian market samples of ayurvedic drugs-iv

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Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Studies on some south indian market samples of ayurvedic drugs-iv
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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Original source:

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Author:

K. Vasudevan Nair, S.N. Yoganarasimhan, K. Gopakumar, T.R. Shantha, K.R. Keshavamurthy


Ancient Science of Life:

(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)

Full text available for: Studies on some south indian market samples of ayurvedic drugs-iv

Year: 1985

Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

This paper presents an evaluation of four Ayurvedic drugs�Prsniparni, Sahacara, Hapusa, and Renuka—primarily focusing on samples from South India. The authors, K. Vasudevan Nair and colleagues, highlight the importance of identifying the correct botanical sources for crude drugs sold in markets, as previous studies have emphasized their role in human welfare. In this study, the accepted sources, alternate sources, and distinguishing botanical and chemical characteristics of the four drugs are analyzed, with the aim of aiding accurate identification. The study also involves the examination of herbarium specimens and presents photographs of the crude drugs.

Misidentification of Prsniparni

One significant concept discussed is the confusion surrounding the identification of Prsniparni, a key component in the Ayurvedic drug group Dasamula. The accepted botanical source is identified as Uraria picta Desv. (Fabaceae), yet dark brown, narrow, woody roots sold as Prsniparni in markets have been determined to be the roots of Pseudarthria viscid (L) W. & A., also within the Fabaceae family. This misidentification is compounded by the presence of roots from Desmodium gangeticum (L.) D.C., which are occasionally mixed with P. viscid. The challenges in identification arise from common Ayurvedic synonyms and local names, which vary across regions. The authors advocate for greater reliance on local naming conventions used by Ayurvedic practitioners to enhance the accuracy of phytotherapy and to correctly differentiate between Prsniparni (P. viscid) and Salaparni (D. gangeticum).

Conclusion

The study underscores the complexity and necessity of accurate drug identification in Ayurvedic practices, particularly concerning the sourcing of crude drugs within South Indian markets. The misidentifications explored highlight the implications for both traditional practices and modern herbal medicine, emphasizing the need for comprehensive botanical and trade knowledge to promote effective treatment outcomes. The authors express gratitude to their supporting institutions and note that ongoing efforts are essential for ensuring the authenticity and efficacy of herbal remedies used in Ayurveda. By elucidating these complexities, this research aids in safeguarding the integrity and reliability of Ayurvedic pharmacology.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is Prsniparni and its accepted botanical source?

Prsniparni is a significant drug in Ayurveda. The accepted botanical source is the roots of Uraria picta Desv., of the Fabaceae family. In South India, roots of Pseudarthria viscid are often misidentified as Prsniparni in the markets.

Which plant is recognized as Sahacara in South India?

Sahacara is primarily derived from the roots of Barleria prionitis L. However, in South Indian markets, roots of Nilgirianthus heyneanus are also used. Ayurvedic synonyms highlight the bushy nature and soft characteristics of this drug.

What is the main source for Hapusa in Ayurvedic preparations?

The accepted source for Hapusa is the fruits of Juniperus communis L. However, in South India, a whole plant identified as Sphaeranthus indicus L. is frequently used, noted for its therapeutic properties.

What are the sources of the Ayurvedic drug Renuka?

Renuka is derived from the fruits of Vitex anguscastus, an exotic plant. In South India, fruits of Vitex altissima and Vitex negundo are also sold under this name, with differing characteristics and uses.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Studies on some south indian market samples of ayurvedic drugs-iv�. 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:
In the context of Ayurveda, a drug refers to any medicinal substance derived from plants, animal products, or minerals used for therapeutic purposes. The study emphasizes the importance of accurately identifying these drugs to ensure their proper use, efficacy, and safety in treating various health conditions.

2) Prishniparni (Pṛśniparṇ�, Prishni-parni, Pṛṣṇiparṇ�):
Prsniparni is one of the Ayurvedic drugs, belonging to the Dasamula group. It’s primarily derived from the roots of Uraria picta. Misidentification is common, with roots from other species like Pseudarthria viscid often sold as Prsniparni. Understanding its correct sources is crucial for authentic Ayurvedic practice.

3) Hapusha (Hapuṣ�):
Hapusa, included in various Ayurvedic preparations, refers to Juniperus communis, a gymnosperm. The study highlights its confusion with other species, particularly Sphaeranthus indicus, sold as Hapusa in markets. Identifying its correct source is essential for maintaining the integrity and efficacy of Ayurvedic treatments.

4) Sahacara (Saha-cara, SahacÄra):
Sahacara is an Ayurvedic herb used for treating vata disorders, primarily sourced from Barleria prionitis. However, market analysis shows that roots of related species like Nilgirianthus heyneanus are sometimes misidentified as Sahacara, indicating the need for awareness of botanical variations and the importance of accurate identification.

5) Renuka (ReṇukÄ, Reṇuka):
Renuka refers to a drug obtained from the fruits of Vitex species, primarily Vitex angus-castus. Due to the rarity of the accepted source, other species like Vitex negundo and Vitex altissima are often utilized, underscoring the necessity for accurate recognition of botanical sources in Ayurveda.

6) Shalaparni (ÅšÄlaparṇÄ�):
Salaparni, closely linked with the identification of the drug, traditionally refers to Desmodium gangeticum. This highlights the confusion in Ayurvedic nomenclature, with misnamings between Salaparni and Prsniparni. Correct botanical identification is vital for the effective use of these drugs in Ayurvedic medicine.

7) Katu (Kaá¹­u, KÄtu):
Katu, meaning pungent or acrid in taste, is an essential concept in Ayurveda, affecting the properties and therapeutic actions of medicines. Its presence in formulations conveys specific health benefits, particularly in stimulating digestion and addressing conditions associated with excess kapha or vata doshas.

8) Madhura (MadhurÄ, MÄdhura):
Madhura denotes sweetness in Ayurvedic terminology, playing a critical role in flavor profiles and therapeutic properties of drugs. Sweetness is often associated with soothing effects on the digestive system and balanced energy levels, guiding practitioners in selecting suitable herbs for therapeutic mixtures.

9) Vipaka (VipÄka):
Vipaka refers to the post-digestive effect or final transformation of food into bodily tissues in Ayurveda. It indicates how the taste of a drug influences its action in the body after digestion. Understanding vipaka is crucial for Ayurvedic formulation and treatment efficacy.

10) Virya (VÄ«rya, VÄ«ryÄ):
Virya refers to the potency or strength of a drug, influencing its therapeutic effects and actions within the body. It represents the energy of the plant, which can be hot or cold, playing a significant role in selecting herbs appropriate for balancing the body’s doshas.

11) Rasa (RasÄ, Rasha):
Rasa is a fundamental concept in Ayurveda, indicating the taste of a drug. It influences the drug’s properties, therapeutic actions, and overall effect on the body. Different rasas can lead to various physiological outcomes, making the understanding of rasa essential for effective treatments.

12) Guna (Guṇa, Gūna):
Guna refers to the qualities or attributes of a substance in Ayurveda, such as lightness or heaviness. It is crucial for determining how a drug interacts with the body, affecting its therapeutic potential, and guiding practitioners in selecting appropriate herbal remedies based on individual patient needs.

13) Ushna (Uṣṇa, UṣṇÄ):
Usna indicates the hot potency of a drug in Ayurveda. It's significant in determining the drug's effects on the body's balance, particularly in treating conditions exacerbated by coldness or dampness. Understanding usna properties helps practitioners tailor treatments to patients' needs.

14) Dashamula (Dasha-mula, Daśamūla, Dashan-mula):
Dasamula is a well-known Ayurvedic formulation composed of ten roots used primarily for strengthening and nurturing vata. This combination is essential in many treatments and plays a vital role in traditional medicine, requiring accurate identification of its constituents for effective application.

15) Vaidya:
Vaidya refers to a practitioner or physician in Ayurveda, responsible for diagnosing and treating health conditions using traditional herbal medicines. Their role is crucial, as they integrate knowledge of botanical sources, therapeutic properties, and patient needs to provide effective treatments.

16) Laghu:
Laghu denotes 'lightness' in Ayurvedic terminology, relevant for determining the properties of a drug and its effects on the body. Drugs with laghu characteristics are often used for conditions associated with heaviness and sluggishness, making their identification important in therapeutics.

17) Tikta (TiktÄ):
Tikta signifies the bitter taste in Ayurveda, often associated with cleansing properties and the ability to reduce toxicity in the body. Understanding tikta enhances the selection process for treatments aimed at digestive health and detoxification.

18) Desmodium gangeticum:
Desmodium gangeticum is a key botanical reference in Ayurvedic medicine, often confused with other species. Proper identification is essential as its therapeutic applications relate closely to its qualities and uses in various formulations, particularly concerning the drug Salaparni.

19) Dashamularishta (DaÅ›amÅ«lÄriṣṭa):
Dasamularista is an important Ayurvedic formulation that incorporates the Dasamula group of roots. Its benefits are attributed to the synergistic effects of the ingredients, necessitating accurate sourcing and identification of each component to maintain its therapeutic value.

20) Sahacaradi (SahacarÄdi):
Sahacaradi is another traditional formulation in Ayurveda comprising Sahacara and various other herbs. It emphasizes the importance of proper herb identification for effective treatment, showcasing the diversity of Ayurvedic remedies and their reliance on accurate botanical sources.

21) Katurasa (Kaá¹­urasa, Katu-rasa):
Katu-rasa defines the pungent taste in Ayurveda, which is crucial for stimulating digestive processes and improving metabolic functions. Recognizing the effects of katu-rasa assists practitioners in formulating herbal combinations that effectively address specific health concerns.

22) Ayurveda (Ä€yurveda, Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is the ancient system of medicine originating from India, focusing on holistic health through herbal remedies, dietary practices, and lifestyle adjustments. Its principles are grounded in the balance of doshas, making the accurate identification of medicinal plants essential for effective treatments.

23) Kadamba (KÄdÄmba, KÄdamba, Kaá¸amba, KadambÄ):
Kadamba refers to a plant with symbolic and actual significance in Ayurveda, contributing to formulations aimed at promoting health and well-being. The relation of kadamba to other synonyms highlights botanical diversity, requiring practitioners to distinguish between different species accurately.

24) Kvatha (KvÄtha):
Kvatha represents an Ayurvedic preparation method, typically a decoction used to extract medicinal properties from herbs. Understanding kvatha is significant for practitioners to ensure the correct preparation steps are followed, maximizing therapeutic efficacy from the chosen ingredients.

25) Kadambapushpi (Kadambapuṣpī, Kadamba-pushpi):
Kadamba-puspi refers to the flowering state of the kadamba plant, highlighting the importance of recognizing various stages in plant development for Ayurvedic use. It emphasizes the need for thorough knowledge in botanical sources to derive maximum therapeutic benefits.

26) Matsyagandha (Matsya-gandha):
Matsya-gandha translates to ‘fish smell�, a descriptive term used for specific herbs exhibiting a fishy odor. This term is crucial for identifying certain plants in Ayurveda, particularly in relation to their properties and potential uses in medicinal formulations.

27) Madhurarasa (Madhura-rasa):
Madhura-rasa indicates the sweet taste in Ayurveda, known for its soothing and nourishing qualities. This principle reinforces the importance of taste in determining the therapeutic applications of herbs, guiding practitioners in selection for treatments of various health issues.

28) Dirghamula (Dīrghamūla, Dirgha-mula):
Dirgha-mula translates to 'long root', an important descriptor in Ayurveda for identifying specific plants, such as Desmodium gangeticum. Awareness of terms like dirgha-mula ensures accurate identification necessary for authentic Ayurvedic practice and formulation.

29) Irritation:
Irritation refers to the response from certain drugs or plants causing discomfort or sensitivity, especially in skin applications or digestive functions. Understanding the possible irritative effects of different herbs is essential for practitioners to tailor treatments to individual tolerances.

30) Mahamundi (MahÄmuṇá¸Ä«, Maha-mundi):
Mahamundi is a synonym associated with specific plant properties in Ayurveda, emphasizing the intricate relationships within botanical nomenclature. Being aware of such names enhances the understanding of plant interactions and their implications for Ayurvedic treatment formulations.

31) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are a group of bioactive compounds found in plants, known for their antioxidant properties. In the Ayurvedic context, understanding the presence of flavonoids in herbal drugs is crucial for appreciating their health benefits and supporting their therapeutic roles.

32) Haritaki (Harītakī):
Haritaki refers to Terminalia chebula, a revered herb in Ayurveda known for its health-promoting properties, particularly in digestion and detoxification. Its significance lies in its widespread use and recognition in Ayurvedic formulations, necessitating accurate sourcing for efficacious applications.

33) Triparni (Triparṇ�, Tri-parni):
Triparni means 'three-leaved', relevant in referring to specific plants in Ayurvedic texts. It highlights the importance of descriptive terms in the botanical identification of herbs, ensuring practitioners can discern between different species in the formulation of Ayurvedic drugs.

34) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana, RasÄyana, RÄsÄyana):
Rasayana refers to rejuvenating treatments in Ayurveda focused on enhancing vitality and longevity. This principle underlines the goal of many Ayurvedic formulations, stressing the importance of proper herbal sourcing to maintain the integrity and potency of these rejuvenation therapies.

35) Nishphala (Niá¹£phala, Nitphala):
Nisphala signifies 'without fruit' in Ayurveda, often involving terms that describe the fruit-producing qualities of plants. Recognizing nisphala aids practitioners in identifying specific plant characteristics related to their medicinal uses and lifecycle stages.

36) Hapushadi (Hapuá¹£Ädi):
Hapusadi is a traditional Ayurvedic formulation that incorporates Hapusa, emphasizing the need for precise identification of the ingredient. It showcases the importance of traditional knowledge and proper sourcing in maintaining the effectiveness of Ayurvedic remedies.

37) Kantaka (Kaṇṭaka, KantakÄ, Kamtaka):
Kantaka refers to a thorny or spiny plant characteristic, significant in the identification of certain Ayurvedic herbs. Understanding the distinguishing features like kantaka is vital for accurate herb identification and ensuring proper therapeutic applications.

38) Hridroga (Há¹›droga, Hrid-roga):
Hrdroga signifies cardiac diseases in Ayurveda, non-specifically pointing to various heart conditions. Awareness of terms related to specific health issues aids practitioners in developing targeted therapies involving the correct combination of Ayurvedic drugs.

39) Science (Scientific):
Science in the context of Ayurveda refers to the systematic study and understanding of medicinal plants, their interactions, and therapeutic actions. This notion emphasizes the necessity for rigorous research and validation of traditional practices to ensure their efficacy and safety.

40) Matsya (MÄtsya):
Matsya translates to 'fish' in Sanskrit, often relating to various descriptive terms in Ayurveda that refer to aromatic plants or specific health properties. This term signifies the importance of sensory descriptors in the identification and application of therapeutic herbs.

41) Dirgha (DÄ«rgha, DÄ«rghÄ):
Dirgha means 'long' in Sanskrit, typically describing root length or growth characteristics of certain plants. Understanding terms like dirgha is essential in Ayurvedic herb identification to ensure accurate sourcing and effective therapeutic use of these botanicals.

42) Sthira (SthirÄ):
Sthira refers to stability or firmness in Ayurvedic terminology. It denotes the qualities of certain herbs or roots that provide strength and support in treatment. Recognizing sthira properties helps in tailoring therapies for specific patient needs.

43) Gandha (GandhÄ, Gamdha):
Gandha means 'fragrance' or 'odor,' playing a significant role in herbal identification and selection in Ayurveda. The presence of certain odorous compounds can indicate specific plant properties, impacting their therapeutic use and efficacy.

44) Ananta (Ä€nanta, AnantÄ, Anamta, Āṉanta):
Ananta translates to 'eternal' or 'endless' and may be linked to plants or attributes signifying resilience or longevity in Ayurvedic treatments. Understanding such terms provides insights into the philosophical underpinnings of Ayurvedic principles.

45) Sharman (Åšarma, SarmÄ, Sarma, Sharma, Åšarman):
Sharma is often a common surname in India, but it also represents traditional knowledge and Ayurvedic scholarship in the field of medicine. The reference to Sharma in literature denotes the importance of heritage and accurate documentation in Ayurvedic practices.

46) Curna (CÅ«rṇa, CurnÄ):
Curna refers to a powdered form of herbs used in various Ayurvedic preparations to enhance bioavailability and efficacy. Understanding the form of drugs is crucial in their application, making curna an important concept in practice.

47) Taila (TailÄ):
Taila translates to 'oil' in Ayurveda, commonly used in various formulations for therapeutic application, often as a base for herbal mixtures. Knowing the types and properties of taila is essential for effective Ayurvedic treatments and massages.

48) Gupta (GuptÄ):
Gupta is another common surname in India, highlighting the tradition of Ayurvedic practice. References to Gupta in texts emphasize the lineage and perpetuation of Ayurvedic knowledge through generations, contributing to its authentic understanding.

49) Ghrita (Ghá¹›ta):
Ghrta or 'ghee' is clarified butter used extensively in Ayurvedic formulations. It serves as a carrier for medicinal properties and enhances the bioavailability of active compounds in treatment plans. Recognizing the role of ghrta is fundamental for the preparation of Ayurvedic remedies.

50) Pushpi (Puṣpī, Puṣpi):
Puspi refers to the flowering stage of plants in Ayurveda, crucial for identifying specific therapeutic properties and timing for harvesting. Understanding puspi stages is significant for practitioners in evaluating plant preparations and their medicinal uses.

51) Kanta (KÄnta, Kaṇṭa, KÄntÄ, Kamta, KÄná¹­Ä�):
Kanta connotes 'throat' or 'voice' and may reference plants that influence or support throat health in Ayurvedic practice. Awareness of terms like kanta ensures effective identification of relevant herbs for respiratory and voice-related ailments.

52) Holla:
Holla refers to an individual recognized for contributions in Ayurvedic research or practice. Understanding the influences of individuals like Holla is valuable for understanding advancements and credibility within traditional Ayurvedic medicine.

53) Mundi (Muṇá¸Ä«, Muṇá¸i, Mundin, Muṇá¸in, Mumdi):
Mundi translates to 'mound' or 'hill' and indicates relationships to certain plants' growth patterns or physical shapes. Such descriptors play a significant role in identifying herbs in Ayurveda and their various therapeutic applications.

54) Vata (VÄá¹­a, Vaá¹­a, VÄta, Vaá¹­Ä�):
Vata refers to one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, representing air and space elements. Recognition of vata's characteristics is essential for health assessments, as imbalances in vata can lead to various physiological and psychological disorders.

55) Mridu (Má¹›du):
Mrdu means 'soft' or 'gentle' in Ayurvedic terminology, often describing the nature of certain plants. Identifying plants with mrdu attributes is essential for selecting remedies aimed at soothing or balancing the body without causing irritation.

56) Mula (MÅ«lÄ, MÅ«la, Muḻa, MuḻÄ�):
Mula translates to 'root' in Ayurveda, crucial for identifying medicinal plants and their therapeutic properties. Understanding the significance of mula aids practitioners in sourcing the right parts of plants for effective treatments.

57) Fish:
Fish, in an Ayurvedic context, may relate to specific formulations that utilize fish-derived products for their health benefits, particularly in nutrition and digestion. The significance of fish in traditional medicine necessitates accurate knowledge of sourcing and preparing these resources.

58) Worm:
Worm pertains to parasitic infections, highlighting a focus area in Ayurveda concerning treatments for digestive health. Understanding terms related to worms is vital for practitioners in creating effective herbal remedies that target gastrointestinal health.

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Desmodium gangeticum, Sphaeranthus indicus, Therapeutic properties, Herbarium specimen, Local name, Ayurvedic Drug, Alternative source.

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