Toxicity of semecarpus anacardium extract
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Toxicity of semecarpus anacardium extract
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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Bhushan Patwardhan, M.N. Saraf, S.B. David
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Toxicity of semecarpus anacardium extract
Year: 1988
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Semecarpus anacardium Linn, commonly known as Bibba or Black nut, is recognized for its corrosive juice and traditional medicinal applications in Ayurveda, where it is used to treat various ailments. While the substance has demonstrated certain pharmacological benefits, including antiarthritic and antibacterial properties, its usage has been limited due to its dermal toxicity. Prior pharmacological studies indicated that different methods of administration can significantly affect the toxicity profile of S. anacardium. The current study aimed to compare the oral toxicity of the chloroform extract of this nut when administered with peanut oil versus Tween-80 saline, evaluating parameters such as weight gain, red blood cell (RBC) count, and hemoglobin percentage over a nine-day observation period.
Effect of Administration Method on Toxicity
The study revealed a stark contrast in toxicity outcomes depending on the vehicle used for administering the S. anacardium extract. The extract dissolved in peanut oil proved to be safe, showing no mortality at doses up to 100 mg/kg/day and even promoting anabolic effects such as increased body weight, RBC count, and hemoglobin levels, particularly at 25 mg/kg/day doses. In contrast, the extraction emulsified with Tween-80 saline resulted in 16.5% mortality at even the lowest dose of 25 mg/kg/day and 100% mortality at 200 mg/kg/day. These results support the traditional Ayurvedic practice of using peanut oil, highlighting its potential benefits in mitigating toxicity while retaining the extract's therapeutic efficacy.
Conclusion
The findings from this study suggest that the traditional Ayurvedic method of administering Semecarpus anacardium extract with peanut oil can effectively reduce toxicity while maintaining therapeutic benefits. With safe dosing up to 25 mg/kg/day yielding positive results in weight, RBC count, and hemoglobin levels, the research advocates for adherence to these traditional practices in contemporary settings. Additionally, there is a need for further study on other blood parameters to fully understand the mechanisms underlying the observed toxic effects, reinforcing the significance of traditional knowledge in modern medicinal practices.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main finding regarding Semecarpus anacardium extract toxicity?
The study found that Semecarpus anacardium extract is significantly less toxic when administered with peanut oil compared to Tween-80 saline, showing safer outcomes and reduced mortality rates.
How does the dosage impact the toxicity of Semecarpus anacardium?
At doses of 25 mg/kg/day using peanut oil, there were no adverse effects. However, with Tween-80 saline, even at this low dose, 16.5% mortality was recorded.
What beneficial effects were observed with peanut oil administration?
The administration of the extract with peanut oil resulted in increased body weight, improved RBC count, and elevated hemoglobin percentage, indicating potential anabolic properties.
What does the study suggest about Ayurvedic administration methods?
The study supports the traditional Ayurvedic method of administration, emphasizing its benefits in reducing toxicity while maintaining the therapeutic efficacy of Semecarpus anacardium extract.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Toxicity of semecarpus anacardium extract�. 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) Toxicity:
Toxicity refers to the harmful effects of substances on the body. In this study, it highlights the adverse effects observed with the administration of Semecarpus anacardium extracts. Understanding toxicity is crucial for ensuring safety in herbal medicine and supports the need for exploring traditional methods to mitigate harm while preserving therapeutic benefits.
2) Activity:
Activity denotes the ability of a substance to exert beneficial effects, such as in treating ailments. The study emphasizes the positive activities, such as anthelmintic and antiarthritic effects, associated with Semecarpus anacardium, showcasing its potential as a therapeutic agent when administered correctly to enhance its efficacy and reduce toxicity.
3) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological relates to the study of drugs and their effects on biological systems. This research employs pharmacological principles to analyze the effects of Semecarpus anacardium extracts on mice, comparing traditional and modern administration methods. Pharmacology is essential for evaluating herbal remedies and determining safe, effective doses while understanding their mechanisms of action.
4) Ayurveda (Ä€yurveda, Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine based on natural healing. This study supports Ayurvedic practices by demonstrating that traditional administration methods, such as with peanut oil, result in fewer adverse effects compared to modern emulsification techniques, underscoring the relevance of Ayurvedic wisdom in contemporary herbal medicine.
5) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibacterial refers to the ability to inhibit or kill bacteria. The study mentions that compounds isolated from Semecarpus anacardium exhibit antibacterial properties, particularly against Gram-positive bacteria. This highlights the therapeutic potential of this herbal remedy in treating infections, contributing to discussions on integrating natural substances into modern antibacterial treatments.
6) Bhallataka (BhallÄá¹aka, BhallÄtaka):
Bhallataka is a common name for Semecarpus anacardium in Ayurveda, indicating its recognized use in traditional medicine. This term is relevant as it represents the cultural and medicinal significance of the plant, which is explored in the study to validate its safety and efficacy, linking historical practices with scientific inquiry.
7) Rheumatoid arthritis:
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting joints. The study reflects upon the traditional use of Semecarpus anacardium in treating this condition, suggesting its potential immunosuppressive effects. Understanding its application in rheumatoid arthritis highlights the importance of herbal medicines in addressing chronic inflammatory diseases within Ayurvedic practices.
8) Purification:
Purification involves removing impurities or toxic components from herbal extracts. The study notes that the toxicity of Semecarpus anacardium increased upon purification, illustrating the complexities of herbal pharmacology. This emphasizes the need for careful processing and preparation techniques in herbal medicine to enhance therapeutic efficacy while minimizing toxicity.
9) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the section where findings are analyzed and interpreted. In this study, the discussion evaluates the comparative toxicity of different extraction methods for Semecarpus anacardium, integrating traditional knowledge with empirical evidence, to propose safer administration routes and support the benefits of Ayurvedic practices in scientific terms.
10) Science (Scientific):
Science refers to the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world through observation and experimentation. The study embodies scientific inquiry into the effects and safety of Semecarpus anacardium extracts, promoting a bridge between traditional herbal practices and contemporary scientific exploration to enhance therapeutic uses.
11) Vaidya:
Vaidya refers to an Ayurvedic practitioner or physician specializing in herbal medicine. This term is significant as it connects the study's findings to the traditional knowledge system of Ayurveda, demonstrating the vital role of Vaidyas in utilizing natural remedies wisely and comprehensively addressing health issues while ensuring patient safety.
12) Reason:
Reason is the rationale behind choices and actions. In this context, it represents the underlying motivations for investigating the toxicity of Semecarpus anacardium extracts. Understanding the reasons for preferring traditional administration methods over modern ones helps validate Ayurvedic practices, emphasizing safety and efficacy in treatment outcomes.
13) Ghi (Ghī, Ghee):
Ghee is clarified butter widely used in Ayurvedic medicine as a carrier for herbal preparations. Its mention in the study reinforces the traditional practice of combining Semecarpus anacardium with ghee for safer, effective administration, illustrating the cultural significance of ghee in enhancing the efficacy of herbal medicines.
14) Milk:
Milk is a traditional vehicle used in Ayurvedic practices to administer herbal remedies. The study cites milk as one of the carriers for Semecarpus anacardium, showcasing the holistic approach of Ayurveda in maximizing therapeutic benefits while minimizing toxicity, highlighting the importance of proper administration methods in herbal treatments.
15) Drug:
Drug refers to substances used for medical treatment, prevention, or diagnosis. In this study, Semecarpus anacardium is investigated as a potential herbal drug. Understanding its classification as a drug in traditional and modern contexts underscores the importance of rigorous testing and evaluation in bringing effective herbal therapies to mainstream medicine.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �Toxicity of semecarpus anacardium extract�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Rheumatoid arthritis, Therapeutic use, Hemoglobin percentage, Body weight, Anthelmintic activity, RBC count, Ayurvedic method, Immunosuppression, Dermal toxicity, Experimental animal, Rheumatic pain, Oral route administration.