Physico-chemical profile of some colouring plants used in homoeopathy
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Physico-chemical profile of some colouring plants used in homoeopathy
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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P. Subramaniam, Sunilkumar
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Physico-chemical profile of some colouring plants used in homoeopathy
Year: 2001
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
This study conducted by P. Subramaniam and Sunilkumar at the Homoeopathic Drug Research Institute focuses on the physico-chemical profiles of two significant coloring plants used in homeopathy, namely Bixa orellana Linn (commonly known as Annatto) and Lawsonia inermis Linn (Henna). The authors investigate various properties and constituents of these plants to establish pharmacopoeial standards, thereby enhancing the credibility and efficacy of their use in homeopathy. The research addresses the lack of standardized data for these plants in the homeopathic pharmacopoeia and aims to contribute essential information for their application in medicinal practices.
Extractive Value and Chemical Composition
A critical aspect of this study is the analysis of the extractive values and chemical compositions of both Bixa orellana and Lawsonia inermis. The authors conducted various physico-chemical analyses, including moisture content, total ash content, and extractive values using different solvents such as alcohol, chloroform, and methanol. They prepared mother tinctures following the Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia of India guidelines and recorded their UV absorbance. Notably, the study highlighted the significant presence of carotenoids in Bixa orellana and Lawsone in Lawsonia inermis, linking these compounds to the plants' coloring properties and potential medicinal benefits. The findings illustrate the utility of these plants in homeopathic formulations as well as their safety and effectiveness, which adds to the ongoing discourse on herbal medicine in modern therapeutic systems.
Conclusion
The results of this research provide foundational data that can be utilized as pharmacopoeial standards for Bixa orellana and Lawsonia inermis in the homeopathic system of medicine. The established standards for their crude drug forms and mother tinctures serve as a pivotal step in standardizing herbal products, ensuring quality and efficacy in homeopathy. The authors acknowledge the support received from various individuals in the process of conducting this study, indicating a collaborative effort towards enhancing the scientific understanding of these important medicinal plants. Consequently, this work lays the groundwork for future research and contributes to the broader integration of traditional plant-based remedies in contemporary healthcare practices.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What are Bixa orellana and Lawsonia inermis commonly used for?
Bixa orellana, also known as the annatto tree, is used for dyeing food products and in homeopathy for treating leprosy and skin diseases. Lawsonia inermis, or henna, is commonly used for dyeing skin and hair, as well as in traditional medicine.
What is the primary coloring compound found in Bixa orellana?
The main coloring compound in Bixa orellana is bixin, a carotenoid. Additionally, other carotenoids such as orellin and 尾-carotene are also present, contributing to its dyeing properties.
How were the mother tinctures of the plants prepared?
Mother tinctures were prepared by macerating powdered Bixa orellana and Lawsonia inermis in specified ratios of alcohol and water for 24 hours, followed by filtration to standardize their respective extracts for analysis.
What physicochemical properties were determined for the plants?
Physicochemical properties studied included moisture content, total ash, extractive value, and pH. These parameters help establish pharmacopoeial standards for the use of these plants in homoeopathy.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for 鈥淧hysico-chemical profile of some colouring plants used in homoeopathy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 substances used to diagnose, cure, treat, or prevent diseases. In this context, it specifically pertains to 'Bixa orellana' and 'Lawsonia inermis', which are evaluated for their medicinal properties in homeopathy. The study aims to establish pharmacopoeial standards for these herbal drugs.
2) Water:
Water is highlighted as a solvent used in the preparation of mother tinctures from the plants. It plays a crucial role in extraction processes, particularly in conjunction with alcohol, contributing to the solubility of active compounds from the plant materials for analysis in homoeopathic medicine.
3) Medicine:
The term 'Medicine' encompasses various substances, including herbal remedies, that serve to restore health. In this article, the focus is on homeopathic medicines derived from 'Bixa orellana' and 'Lawsonia inermis', emphasizing their therapeutic applications and the need for standardized formulations to ensure efficacy.
4) Leprosy:
Leprosy, a chronic infectious disease, is mentioned as one of the conditions treated with 'Bixa orellana' in homeopathy. The study's findings could enhance understanding of how these plants can be effectively utilized in treating leprosy, thereby contributing to public health in affected regions.
5) Discussion:
The 'Discussion' section provides an analysis of the results, highlighting the significance of the findings in the context of existing literature. It serves to connect the observed data with homoeopathic practices and support the establishment of pharmacopoeial standards for the evaluated plants.
6) Irritation:
Irritation refers to a negative reaction in the skin or mucous membranes. The article notes that henna, derived from 'Lawsonia inermis', does not cause irritation, reinforcing its safety and suitability for use in cosmetic and medicinal applications, further promoting its popularity.
7) Science (Scientific):
Science refers to the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world. In this context, it emphasizes the analytical investigation into the physico-chemical properties of plants, reinforcing the relevance of empirical evidence in supporting homeopathic practices.
8) Activity:
Activity pertains to the pharmacological effects exhibited by the extracts from the studied plants. The term indicates the biological actions of the dyeing plants, such as their potential anti-inflammatory and anti-dysentric properties, providing a basis for their applications in treatment and standardization.
9) Epilepsy:
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. 'Bixa orellana' is noted to have medicinal applications including treatment for epilepsy. This highlights the importance of researching traditional medicine for potential treatment options for modern medical conditions, warranting further investigation into these herbal remedies.
10) Aroma (A-roma):
The term 'Aroma' signifies the pleasant scent produced by henna, which enhances its appeal as a cosmetic and medicinal product. The study indicates that the pleasant aroma contributes to the cultural and aesthetic value of henna, promoting its widespread use and desirability.
11) Meat:
Meat refers to animal flesh that, in this study, is highlighted as one of the food items that can be colored using annatto from 'Bixa orellana'. This illustrates the plant's practical applications beyond medicine, showcasing its importance in food industry practices.
12) Hand:
The term 'Hand' signifies the body part often adorned with henna designs, particularly in cultural practices within Middle Eastern and Indian traditions. This indicates the social and cultural relevance of 'Lawsonia inermis' beyond its medicinal uses, linking it to beautification and art.
13) Ghi (Gh墨, Ghee):
Ghee, or clarified butter, is mentioned as a food product that can be colored using annatto, derived from 'Bixa orellana'. This underscores the versatility of the dye in culinary applications, linking traditional practices with the functional use of natural coloring agents in cooking.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: 鈥�Physico-chemical profile of some colouring plants used in homoeopathy鈥�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Astringent properties, Thin Layer Chromatography, Organoleptic properties, Extractive value, Physico-chemical profile, Ancient Science of life, Pharmacopoeial standard, Chromatographic studies, Hemostatic properties, U-V spectra, Dyeing properties, Prophylactic Use, Mother tincture, Bixa orellana Linn, Lawsonia inermis Linn.