"AMRITHAPALA: New Drug from Kerala's Kani Tribe (Janakia arayalpatra)"
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: 鈥楢MRITHAPALA鈥� (Janakia arayalpatra, Joseph & Chandrasekharan), A NEW DRUG FROM THE KANI TRIBE OF KERALA
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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P. Pushpagadan, A. Rajasekharan, P.K. Ratheeshkumar, C.R. Jawahar, K. Radhakrishnan, C.P.R. Nair, L. Sarada Amma, A. V. Bhatt Aicrpe
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: 鈥楢MRITHAPALA鈥� (Janakia arayalpatra, Joseph & Chandrasekharan), A NEW DRUG FROM THE KANI TRIBE OF KERALA
Year: 1990
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Amrithapala (Janakia arayalpatra) is a rare and endemic plant species indigenous to the Southern forests of the Western Ghats region in Kerala, used by the local Kani tribe for its alleged medicinal properties. The plant has been reported as a remedy for peptic ulcers, cancer-like ailments, and as a rejuvenating tonic. Historically, it shares characteristics with a divine drug referred to in Ayurvedic literature as MRITHA SANJEEVINI, believed to have life-restoring capabilities. The ethnobotanical knowledge of the Kani tribe showcases a rich tradition of utilizing local plants for health care, emphasizing the significance of preserving such indigenous wisdom.
Medicinal Uses and Preparation
The Kani tribe recognizes Amrithapala as a drug with exceptional healing virtues, calling it the "plant that gives the milky ambrosia or nectar of immortality." The preparation for medicinal use involves extracting the juice or creating a pounded mixture of fresh tuberous roots combined with coconut kernel juice, which is then boiled into a semisolid form. This concoction is administered in doses of 10-15 ml twice daily for a duration of 15 to 30 days, targeting various peptic ulcers and promoting overall stamina, blood purification, and revitalization. According to local lore, the plant鈥檚 name and properties are linked to its mythical origins involving divine characters from the Indian epic Ramayana, where it played a role in reviving Laxmanan, a key figure in the narrative.
Conclusion
The ongoing research into the ethnopharmacology and phytochemistry of Amrithapala at the Regional Research Laboratory indicates promising therapeutic potentials, with further investigations underway. Celebrating and documenting the traditional knowledge systems of the Kani tribe not only enriches our understanding of natural medicine but also highlights the importance of biodiversity conservation. The support from governmental organizations and the collaboration with local tribal communities are essential for the comprehensive study and potential development of new therapeutic agents derived from this unique plant.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Amrithapala and how is it used by the Kani tribe?
Amrithapala, or Janakia arayalpatra, is a medicinal plant used by the Kani tribe in Kerala as a remedy for peptic ulcers, cancer-like afflictions, and as a rejuvenating tonic. They prepare a mixture from its roots and coconut juice for treatment.
What are the botanical characteristics of Janakia arayalpatra?
Janakia arayalpatra is a perennial undershrub with milky latex and aromatic tuberous roots. The plant has decussate leaves that resemble those of Ficus religiosa, with a complex floral structure, including small flowers and double follicles.
Is there any reference to Amrithapala in Ayurvedic literature?
While there are no direct references to Amrithapala in classical Ayurvedic texts, descriptions of a divine drug with similar characteristics in the Oushadhi Nighantu suggest a close resemblance, leading to its identification as MRITHASANJEEVINI.
What ongoing research is being conducted on Amrithapala?
Research on the ethnopharmacology and phytochemistry of Amrithapala has begun at the Regional Research Laboratory. Preliminary studies have shown promising results, and detailed investigations are currently underway to explore its medicinal properties further.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for 鈥�"AMRITHAPALA: New Drug from Kerala's Kani Tribe (Janakia arayalpatra)"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' in this context refers to 'Amrithapala', a plant used by the Kani tribe as a remedy for various ailments such as peptic ulcers and cancer-like conditions. It embodies the concept of natural medicine derived from indigenous sources, emphasizing the therapeutic potentials of specific flora.
2) Nighantu (Nigha峁囜弓u, Nighamtu):
'Nighantu' denotes a dictionary of medicinal drugs in Ayurveda. In the text, 'Oushadhi Nighantu' by Tayyil Kumaran Krishnan is referenced, showing efforts to connect ethnobotanical findings with historical Ayurvedic texts. This highlights the importance of traditional classifications and knowledge systems in identifying medicinal plants.
3) Ulcer:
'Ulcer' is a significant medical condition that 'Amrithapala' is claimed to treat. The Kani tribe utilizes the plant as a natural remedy for peptic ulcers, demonstrating traditional knowledge concerning digestive health issues, and the role of herbal medicine in addressing such ailments prevalent in their community.
4) Hanuman (Hanumat, Han奴mat, Hanum膩n, Han奴m膩n):
'Hanuman' is a revered figure in Hindu mythology, connected to the healing properties of 'Amrithapala'. According to local legends, he used the plant鈥檚 juice to rejuvenate after a strenuous journey. This mythological association underscores the cultural significance of the plant, integrating spirituality with medicinal lore.
5) Cancer:
Cancer is mentioned as one of the severe health issues that 'Amrithapala' purportedly treats. This association indicates the plant鈥檚 perceived importance within traditional medical practices and the broader context of seeking natural solutions for life-threatening diseases prevalent in the population served by the Kani tribe.
6) Rama (Ram膩, R膩m膩, R膩ma):
'Rama' refers to Lord Rama, a principal deity in Hinduism. In the text, the narrative involves Rama鈥檚 brother Lakshmanan, emphasizing how plants like 'Amrithapala' are interwoven with epic narratives, connecting therapeutic plants to divine intervention and reinforcing their cultural relevance among practitioners.
7) Knowledge:
'Knowledge' in this context refers to the rich understanding the Kani tribe possesses regarding local plants and their medicinal properties. This ethnobotanical knowledge is critical for the survival and health of the tribe, showcasing the wisdom inherent in indigenous practices passed down through generations.
8) Ayurveda (膧yurveda, Ayus-veda):
'Ayurveda' is the ancient Indian system of medicine and is essential in understanding the cultural and historical context of 'Amrithapala'. While the plant isn't directly referenced in classical texts, the search for its identity highlights the interaction between traditional medicine and modern scientific inquiry.
9) Rasayani (Ras膩yan墨):
'Rasayani' refers to rejuvenating compounds in Ayurvedic medicine. The text suggests 'Amrithapala' may have revitalizing effects, emphasizing its role as a tonic. This illustrates the importance of 'Rasayani' formulations within Ayurveda, connecting energy restoration with the consumption of specific plant-based drugs.
10) Himalaya (Him膩laya, Hima-alaya):
'Himalaya' is referred to in the context of herbal procurement, where Hanuman sourced divine drugs. This region is often linked with numerous medicinal plants in traditional medicine, indicating the diversity and richness of flora available, which can serve as effective remedies in Ayurvedic practices.
11) Medicine:
'Medicine' encompasses the broader field of health care practices, with 'Amrithapala' representing a specific traditional remedy. The integration of local plants into the medicinal repertoire showcases how indigenous knowledge contributes to the understanding and treatment of ailments within the community鈥檚 health practices.
12) Habitat:
'Habitat' highlights the ecological setting where 'Amrithapala' thrives鈥擲outhern forests of the Western Ghats of Kerala. This specific environment is crucial for the plant's growth and indicates the relationship between ecology and the availability of medicinal resources utilized by local tribes.
13) Coconut (Cocoanut):
'Coconut' is mentioned as a component used with 'Amrithapala' to prepare a medicinal mixture. This illustrates traditional pharmaceutical practices among the Kani tribe, showcasing the importance of combining various natural ingredients based on local resources to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of their remedies.
14) Science (Scientific):
'Science' in this context pertains to the ongoing ethnopharmacological evaluations of 'Amrithapala'. The research efforts reflect the merging of traditional knowledge with scientific inquiry, facilitating a deeper understanding of the plant鈥檚 medicinal properties and validating its uses through systematic studies.
15) Sariva (S膩riva, S膩riv膩, 艢膩riva, Shariva):
'Sariva' refers to 'Hemidesmus indicus', a plant mentioned in Ayurvedic literature. The resemblance between its aroma and that of 'Amrithapala' suggests the importance of sensory characteristics in plant identification and underscores traditional classifications that link various plants with therapeutic properties.
16) Sharada (艢膩rad膩, 艢膩rada, 艢arad膩, S膩rad膩, S膩rada, Sarada, Sara-da):
'Sarada' refers to L. Sarada Amma, one of the researchers acknowledged in the study. This indicates the collaborative efforts in ethnobotanical research, emphasizing the role of individuals and teams in uncovering and documenting the medicinal wisdom of the Kani tribe.
17) Aroma (A-roma):
'Aroma' relates to the fragrant quality of 'Amrithapala's' tuberous roots, which is noted for its similarity to certain other medicinal plants. The sensory attributes of plants significantly influence their identification and use in traditional medicine practices, highlighting the relationship between smell and efficacy.
18) Blood:
'Blood' is referenced in the context of 'Amrithapala' being considered a blood purifier. This reflects traditional beliefs regarding the role of certain plants in detoxification and overall health, illustrating how herbal remedies are often associated with vital bodily functions in local healing traditions.
19) Shri (艢ri, 艢r墨, 艢峁�, S峁�, S峁�):
'Shri' is a respectful honorific used before names, here attributing respect to individuals, such as the Kani tribal physicians. It signifies cultural reverence and showcases the importance of community members in maintaining and sharing medicinal knowledge, enhancing the social framework within which healing occurs.
20) Pala (Pal膩, P膩la):
'Pala' means milk in the context of 'Amrithapala', symbolizing the plant's association with sustenance and life. The term emphasizes the plant鈥檚 nourishing properties and ties into the mythological significance of the plant as a source of 'nectar of immortality', reinforcing its revered status.
21) Shand (艢a峁囜笉, Sand):
'Sand' is mentioned regarding the plant's habitat, indicating the geological and ecological conditions essential for 'Amrithapala鈥檚' growth. This emphasizes the connection between soil composition and the health of medicinal plants, showcasing the need for understanding environmental factors in traditional medicine.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: 鈥�"AMRITHAPALA: New Drug from Kerala's Kani Tribe (Janakia arayalpatra)"鈥�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Ayurvedic literature, Peptic ulcer, Phytochemistry, Plant identification, Tribal medicine, Kani tribe, Regional research institute, Ethnobotanical investigation.
Concepts being referred in other categories, contexts and sources.