Andrographis SPP.: A Source of Bitter Compounds for Medicinal Use
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Andrographis SPP.: A Source of Bitter Compounds for Medicinal Use
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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C. Alagesa Boopathi
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Andrographis SPP.: A Source of Bitter Compounds for Medicinal Use
Year: 2000
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Andrographis is a significant genus within the Acanthaceae family, known for its extensive use in Indian medicine, particularly Andrographis paniculata, commonly referred to as Kalmegh. Comprised of about 40 species, the genus is widely distributed across tropical regions of Asia, Africa, Brazil, and Central America. About 21 species are found in India, with A. paniculata recognized for its medicinal properties, particularly in treating fever and liver diseases. The herb has played an essential role in Ayurvedic practices and is increasingly utilized in various pharmaceutical preparations.
Medicinal Properties of Andrographis
One of the critical aspects of Andrographis is its reputation as "King of Bitters," highlighting its primary active components that exhibit liver-related health benefits. A. paniculata is particularly noted for its bitter principles, which include andrographide and andrographolide, both of which have been identified and studied over the years. This genus possesses a wide range of medicinal uses, including antipyretic, tonic, and alexipharmic properties. It is utilized for conditions such as jaundice, dysentery, and general debility and is integral to various Ayurvedic formulations. Other species like A. alata and A. lineata also contribute to traditional medicine, showcasing the genus's importance not only in human health but also in veterinary applications.
Conclusion
Given the myriad benefits and therapeutic potentials of Andrographis species, particularly A. paniculata, there is an increasing demand for these plants, leading to over-exploitation and rarity in certain areas. To ensure sustainable use and availability, it is recommended that cultivation methods be implemented. Such practices would help preserve these valuable plants, promote biodiversity, and facilitate the continued use of their medicinal properties in traditional and modern medicine. The acknowledgment of financial support from CSIR for research endeavors further emphasizes the importance of scientific investigation and cultivation of these plants in addressing health issues.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Andrographis and where is it commonly found?
Andrographis is a genus of annual herbs or small shrubs, primarily found in tropical regions of Asia, Africa, and Central America. In India, it is prevalent from Himachal Pradesh to Assam, as well as throughout South India and Sri Lanka.
What are the medicinal uses of Andrographis paniculata?
Andrographis paniculata, known as Kalmegh, is used in traditional medicine for treating fever, liver diseases, and various ailments. It possesses properties such as astringent, tonic, and blood purifier, and is effective against dysentery, jaundice, and general debility.
What are the active compounds found in Andrographis species?
Key active constituents in Andrographis species include andrographide, andrographolide, and various flavonoids. These compounds contribute to the plant's medicinal properties and its classification as the 'King of Bitters' in Ayurvedic practices.
Why is the cultivation of Andrographis recommended?
Due to overexploitation, important species like Andrographis paniculata have become rare. Cultivating these plants is essential to ensure sustainable supply for medicinal use and to protect them from extinction in their natural habitats.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for 鈥淎ndrographis SPP.: A Source of Bitter Compounds for Medicinal Use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) Bitter:
Bitter compounds in Andrographis spp., particularly in A. paniculata, are central to its medicinal properties. Known as 'king of bitters', it is recognized for treating liver ailments and is a key ingredient in traditional Ayurvedic preparations due to its therapeutic applications against various diseases.
2) Medicine:
Medicine refers to the broad field encompassing the study and application of healing practices. The genus Andrographis is an integral component of traditional and contemporary medicine, particularly in India, where it is utilized for its potent medicinal properties derived from its active compounds.
3) Drug:
A drug is any substance used to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat, or prevent a disease. In the context of Andrographis, its active compounds serve as medicinal drugs, with A. paniculata being a well-known drug in Ayurveda for treating fever, liver disorders, and other ailments.
4) Debility:
Debility indicates a state of physical weakness or lack of strength, often due to illness or inadequate nutrition. In traditional medicine, Andrographis spp. has been noted for its tonic properties that help restore energy and vitality, thus addressing issues related to debility.
5) Habitat:
Habitat refers to the natural environment where a particular species resides. The ecological preferences of Andrographis species, such as A. paniculata, influence their distribution and availability, making habitat conservation critical for sustainable medical use and cultivation of these medicinal plants.
6) Blood:
Blood plays a vital role in traditional medicine as a medium for detoxification and nourishment. Andrographis is noted for its blood-purifying qualities, making it beneficial for treating blood-related ailments and promoting overall health through its therapeutic effects.
7) Snake poison (Snake venom):
Snake venom poses a significant medical challenge due to its toxicity, but Andrographis species are traditionally used as remedies against snake bites. The leaves and roots of A. paniculata and related species are utilized in folk medicine for their antidotal properties against venom.
8) Mahatikta (Maha-tikta, Mah膩tikta, Mah膩tikt膩):
Mahatikta is a Sanskrit term meaning 'king of bitters', highlighting the significance of A. paniculata in Ayurvedic medicine. This designation underscores its potent therapeutic value, particularly in treating a range of ailments such as liver conditions and fevers due to its bitter taste.
9) Substance:
Substance refers to a type of matter with specific properties. In the context of Andrographis, the active substances extracted from the plant, including andrographide and andrographolide, are key to its efficacy in treating various medical conditions, entering the pharmacological realm.
10) Swelling:
Swelling, or inflammation, is often a symptom of underlying conditions. Andrographis spp. are documented for their anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in treating swellings that accompany various illnesses and injuries, thereby contributing to recovery and relief of symptoms.
11) Science (Scientific):
Science represents the systematic study of the natural world through observation and experimentation. The exploration of Andrographis in terms of its botanical characteristics, pharmacology, and therapeutic applications embodies a scientific approach to understanding its significance in medicine.
12) Malaya (M膩laya):
Malaya reflects the biogeographical distribution of Andrographis species, which thrive in tropical regions including parts of Malaya. This geographical context is important for understanding the ecological adaptations and pharmacological availability of these herbs for traditional and modern medicinal applications.
13) Botany:
Botany is the scientific study of plants. The examination of Andrographis spp. within the field of botany is crucial for classifying species, understanding their ecological roles, and exploring their medicinal properties, thus providing a basis for their conservation and usage in medicine.
14) Water:
Water is essential for plant growth and plays a critical role in the bioactive compound extraction from Andrographis. Its therapeutic preparations often involve decoctions or infusions, emphasizing the significance of water in maximizing the effectiveness of medicinal plants.
15) Worm:
Worms and parasitic infections are common health issues addressed in traditional medicine. Certain species of Andrographis are noted for their efficacy in treating helminthic infections, as the herb is believed to have anthelmintic properties that aid in combating intestinal worms.
16) Soil:
Soil is the medium for plant growth and a crucial factor influencing the distribution of Andrographis species. Healthy soil conditions are essential for cultivating these medicinal plants, ensuring they produce the active compounds necessary for their therapeutic benefits.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: 鈥�Andrographis SPP.: A Source of Bitter Compounds for Medicinal Use鈥�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Andrographis paniculata, Active principle, Medicinal herb, Indian medicine, Blood-purifier, Dysentery treatment, General debility, Ayurvedic preparation, Anti-snake venom, Bitter tonic, Acanthaceae family, Tropical Asia.