Nootropic (medhya) effect of 屹ٲ Śaṇkhapuṣpī tablets: A clinical appraisal
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Nootropic (medhya) effect of 屹ٲ Śaṇkhapuṣpī tablets: A clinical appraisal
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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Hetal Amin, Rohit Sharma, Hitesh Vyas, Mahesh Vyas, P. K. Prajapati, Rambabu Dwivedi
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Nootropic (medhya) effect of 屹ٲ Śaṇkhapuṣpī tablets: A clinical appraisal
Year: 2014
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The current study evaluates the nootropic effects of the medicinal herb Śṅkṣpī (Convolvulus pluricaulis) through the use of specially prepared tablets. Recognized in Ayurvedic literature as a key herb for enhancing mental functions and cognitive abilities, Śṅkṣpī is traditionally classified as a medhya ⲹԲ, which means it is thought to promote mental clarity and alleviate various mental disorders. Prior research has largely focused on preclinical studies, with limited clinical investigations into its effectiveness. This study aims to bridge that gap by providing clinical validation of its nootropic benefits, particularly in improving memory among young adult participants.
Significant Improvement in Memory
The clinical study involved thirty healthy volunteers aged between 16 and 25, all of whom reported memory-related issues. Participants were subjected to a regimen of Śṅkṣpī tablets, which were prepared using a unique 屹 process involving trituration with the herb's fresh juice. The effectiveness of the tablets was measured using the Weschler Memory Scale (WMS) before and after a two-month intervention period. Results indicated substantial memory improvements: notable enhancements in both auditory and visual memory tasks demonstrated statistically significant results (p < 0.001). These findings support the traditional claims of Śṅkṣpī's ability to improve long-term memory and cognitive performance, highlighting the positive impact of the 屹 preparation process on the herb’s therapeutic efficacy.
Conclusion
Overall, the study provides compelling evidence that Śṅkṣpī tablets significantly enhance memory and cognitive function, particularly in younger individuals. By demonstrating the effectiveness of this Ayurvedic herb in a clinical setting, the research underscores the potential of traditional medicinal practices in addressing contemporary health concerns. Given the promising results, further extensive studies with larger sample sizes and varied demographics are recommended to explore the full therapeutic potential of Śṅkṣpī and similar nootropic herbs in mental health interventions. This study not only validates ancient healing traditions but also offers a more accessible and affordable treatment alternative for memory enhancement in the modern healthcare landscape.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the objective of the study on Śṅkṣpī tablets?
The study aimed to evaluate the nootropic effect of Śṅkṣpī tablets prepared through a specific Ayurvedic process called 屹, using its own fresh juice to enhance cognitive functions, particularly memory.
How was the effectiveness of the tablets measured?
Effectiveness was measured using Weschler's Memory Scale (WMS), comparing scores before and after a two-month intervention period. Significant improvements were found in both auditory and visual memory tests.
What were the main findings related to memory improvement?
The results indicated significant improvement in memory retention, especially in long-term memory, with statistical significance found in both auditory and visual memory tests conducted post-intervention.
What limitations were noted in the study on Śṅkṣpī?
The study had a small sample size and duration, which poses limitations. Future research is needed to explore its effects across different age groups and to validate these findings further.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Nootropic (medhya) effect of 屹ٲ Śaṇkhapuṣpī tablets: A clinical appraisal�. 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) Shankhapushpi (Sankhapuspi, Samkhapuspi):
Shankhapushpi, another name for Śṅkṣpī, highlights the genetic variability of the herb. Its recognition underscores the importance of naming conventions in Ayurveda and further signifies the focus of research on this plant's cognitive benefits, steering conversations about natural remedies for memory improvement.
2) Drug:
In the context of the study, 'drug' refers to agents used for therapeutic purposes. Śṅkṣpī tablets are a form of medication aimed at improving memory and cognitive functions. Understanding drugs in Ayurveda emphasizes natural remedies, showcasing their role in enhancing physical and mental health through holistic means.
3) Medhya:
Medhya denotes substances that enhance memory and intelligence in Ayurveda. It forms a subcategory of Rasayana, aimed at improving mental faculties. The term is significant as it establishes a link between herbal treatments like Śṅkṣpī and their effectiveness in boosting cognitive functions and overall brain health.
4) Bhavana (Bha-vana):
屹 refers to the Ayurvedic practice of levigation or subjecting powdered herbs to a process with juices or decoctions to enhance their therapeutic properties. This technique is crucial in forming effective formulations, such as the Śṅkṣpī tablets, and signifies the importance of preparation methods in achieving desired medicinal effects.
5) Manas (Mano, Manash):
Manas is the Sanskrit term for 'mind' in Ayurveda, encompassing thoughts, emotions, and mental processes. It is integral to understanding one's cognitive state and serves as a foundation for the study of mental disorders and therapies in Ayurveda. Its relativity to mental health makes it essential in Ayurvedic practice.
6) Mana:
Mana, closely associated with Manas, represents the mental consciousness. It relates to cognitive abilities, decision-making, and emotional responses. In Ayurvedic discourse, mana plays a role in medhya actions, underpinning treatments aimed at rectifying cognitive impairments or disturbances stemming from emotional and psychological issues.
7) Smriti (Smrti):
ṛt signifies memory or recollection within the Ayurvedic context. It is vital for assessing cognitive function and memory disorders. The study focuses on enhancing smṛti through Śṅkṣpī, exemplifying how specific herbal interventions can aid in recovering memory, thus contributing to overall mental fitness.
8) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
鲹ⲹԲ pertains to rejuvenating treatments and formulations within Ayurveda that enhance life quality and longevity. It is significant as it emphasizes the role of certain herbs like Śṅkṣpī in promoting vitality and cognitive functions, highlighting the holistic approach of Ayurveda towards mental and physical health enhancement.
9) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma, a common surname in India, refers to one of the authors involved in the study. It reflects collaborative research in Ayurvedic science, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in the validation of traditional practices like the use of Śṅkṣpī for cognitive improvements and memory enhancement.
10) Curna:
ūṇa refers to the powdered form of herbs utilized in Ayurvedic preparations. The significance of cūrṇa lies in its versatility for application in various formulations, being a fundamental component in creating medicines like Śṅkṣpī tablets, ensuring effective delivery of therapeutic benefits.
11) Guna:
ҳṇa symbolizes qualities or properties of substances in Ayurveda, crucial for understanding their effects on health. The study of guṇa helps in categorizing herbs based on their therapeutic actions, facilitating the identification of suitable remedies for improving memory and addressing mental health issues within Ayurvedic practice.
12) Vata:
ٲ is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda representing air and space. It governs movement and neurological functions within the body. An imbalance in ٲ can lead to mental disturbances and memory loss, highlighting the need for treatments like Śṅkṣpī to restore balance and improve cognitive functions.
13) Post:
In this context, 'post' signifies the period following an intervention where the effects of the treatment are measured. Evaluating memory improvement after consuming Śṅkṣpī tablets highlights the efficacy of Ayurvedic treatments in reversing cognitive decline, marking an essential aspect of the clinical evaluation process.
14) Rasashastra (Rasa-shastra, Rasasastra):
Rasashastra is an Ayurvedic discipline that focuses on mineral-based drugs and their therapeutic applications. It delves into traditional formulations that enhance health, including cognitive functions. Combining influences from Rasashastra with herbal studies like Śṅkṣpī offers a holistic understanding of treatment methodologies in Ayurveda.
15) Bhaishajya (Bhaisajya):
Bhaishajya translates to 'medicinal substances' in Ayurveda, encompassing all herbs, minerals, and therapeutic agents. Understanding bhaishajya emphasizes the role of Śṅkṣpī and similar substances in formulating comprehensive treatments tailored to enhance mental health and rectify cognitive impairments.
16) Activity:
Activity in the study refers to the functional outcomes measured after treatment with Śṅkṣpī tablets. It signifies the effectiveness of the drug in real-world applications, focusing on behavioral improvements in memory and cognitive performance following herbal interventions, essential for assessing the validity of Ayurvedic practices.
17) Bhavita:
屹ٲ relates to the processes of levigating herbs with juices to enhance their therapeutic potential. The term reinforces the significance of preparation methods in Ayurveda, asserting that proper bhāvita enhances the efficacy of formulations like Śṅkṣpī tablets, ultimately benefiting cognitive health.
18) Svarasa (Sva-rasa):
Svarasa refers to the fresh juice derived from plants used in various Ayurvedic preparations. The use of svarasa in creating formulations increases the bioavailability of active components, thereby enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of Śṅkṣpī tablets when targeting cognitive functions and overall mental wellness.
19) Kalpana:
Kalpana signifies the method of preparation and formulation of Ayurvedic medicinal products. Understanding kalpana illustrates the importance of traditional practices in medicine, underpinning how forms like tablets or powders impact the delivery and effectiveness of treatments aimed at enhancing cognitive functions.
20) Rajas:
Rajas, in Ayurvedic philosophy, represents the quality of activity, passion, and movement. It influences mental states and behavior, where an excess can lead to agitation or restlessness. In managing rajas alongside cognitive functions, herbs like Śṅkṣpī aim to achieve balance and stability in mental health.
21) Tamas:
Tamas symbolizes the quality of inertia, lethargy, and ignorance within Ayurvedic terminology. It is crucial in understanding mental health as an excess of tamas can lead to cognitive decline and various disorders. Treatments targeting tamas help to restore mental clarity and improve memory functions via herbs like Śṅkṣpī.
22) Raja:
Raja, translated directly, relates to the quality of movement and activity. In the context of psychological health, it signifies the dynamic aspects of the mind, pragmatically affecting how individuals engage with their environment. Establishing a balance in raja through herbal remedies is vital in promoting mental acuity.
23) Tama:
Tama reflects aspects associated with darkness and depressive qualities in the mind. It is critical in evaluating mental disorders as heightened tamas might lead to cognitive impairment. Recognizing tama's influence assists in crafting targeted herbal treatments, highlighting the remedial role of Śṅkṣpī in combating such issues.
24) Dosha (Dosa):
ٴṣa represents the elemental forces or biological humors in Ayurveda—ٲ�, Pitta, and Kapha. An imbalance among these doṣas can result in physical and mental conditions. Properly addressing doṣa imbalances is essential for restoring health and function, central to the overall treatment philosophy in Ayurveda.
25) Mental health:
Mental health pertains to cognitive, emotional, and social well-being. It influences how individuals think, feel, and act, affecting decision-making and interactions. The relevance of Ayurvedic interventions like Şaṅkhapuṣpī emphasizes the importance of natural therapies for promoting emotional stability, cognitive enhancement, and overall mental wellness.
26) Depression:
Depression is a psychological condition characterized by persistent sadness and a lack of interest. Its impact on cognitive functions and memory underlines the potential role of herbal remedies in treatment plans. Studies involving nootropic properties aim at providing alternatives for mental health support, emphasizing the significance of herbs like Śṅkṣpī.
27) Tridosha (Tridosa, Tri-dosha):
հṣa refers to the three fundamental energies—ٲ�, Pitta, and Kapha—that regulate physiological processes. Each of these affects mental and physical health. A deep understanding of tridoṣa enables practitioners to create personalized Ayurvedic treatments, especially when addressing cognitive and emotional well-being through balanced formulations.
28) Buddhi:
Buddhi signifies intellect or intelligence in Ayurveda and is foundational to cognitive and mental functions. Enhancing buddhi through treatment signifies a holistic approach to mental improvement, with herbs like Şaṅkhapuṣpī specifically targeting the cognitive enhancement and mental clarity required for overcoming memory-related issues.
29) Caraka:
Caraka is a revered figure in Ayurvedic medicine renowned for his texts detailing various aspects of health, including herbal formulations. Citing Caraka reinforces the traditional legitimacy of the study's botanical approach, validating the use of herbs like Śṅkṣpī for cognitive enhancement by aligning with established Ayurvedic principles.
30) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three doshas associated with metabolic processes, heat, and energy. An imbalance in pitta can lead to irritability and cognitive disturbances. Understanding pitta's impact on mental health is crucial, as managing it through interventions like Śṅkṣpī aims to restore mental balance and cognitive function.
31) Dhriti (Dhrti):
ٳṛt means determination or willpower and is essential for sustaining mental clarity and focus. It underscores cognitive strength within Ayurvedic discussions, where cultivating dhṛti through natural treatments forms an integral approach to enhancing mental resilience and fostering the capacity to overcome cognitive challenges.
32) Tinospora cordifolia:
Tinospora cordifolia, commonly known as Guduchi, is an important herb in Ayurveda famed for its immunity-boosting and rejuvenating properties. Its inclusion in studies highlights the significance of collaborative medicinal benefits alongside herbs like Śṅkṣpī, enriching the scope of enhancing memory and cognitive functions through combined therapies.
33) Glycirrhiza glabra:
Glycirrhiza glabra, or licorice, is recognized in Ayurveda for its soothing effects and adaptogenic properties. Its use alongside nootropic herbs reinforces the multidimensional approach to mental health, showcasing how various natural substances can synergistically enhance cognitive functions and manage stress-related concerns.
34) Mental disorder:
Mental disorder refers to a range of conditions affecting mood, thinking, and behavior. Studying herbal interventions addresses mental disorders, emphasizing how treatments like Śṅkṣpī can support recovery or management strategies for cognitive impairments, thereby reinforcing the relevance of Ayurveda in contemporary mental health paradigms.
35) Pharmacognostical:
Pharmacognostical pertains to the study of medicinal drugs derived from natural sources. This area is fundamental in validating the efficacy of herbal treatments in Ayurveda, linking the quality and composition of Śṅkṣpī to its therapeutic outcomes and ensuring the reliability of herbal formulations for mental enhancement.
36) Tarpakakapha (Tarpaka-kapha):
Tarpaka-kapha is a dosha representing a subtle form of Kapha associated with cognition and memory retention. It highlights the Ayurvedic belief that balance in tarpaka-kapha is essential for mental clarity, making the understanding of its roles crucial for effective treatment using nootropic herbs like Śṅkṣpī.
37) Sadhakapitta (Sadhaka-pitta):
첹-辱ٳٲ refers to a specific type of pitta responsible for the cerebral functions and cognitive processes. Its balance is integral for effective memory and intellectual functionality. Understanding sādhaka-pitta patterns guides therapeutic interventions, where herbs like Śṅkṣpī aim to promote clarity and cognitive strength.
38) Phytochemical:
Phytochemical refers to the biochemical compounds found in plants that contribute to their therapeutic properties. Researching the phytochemical composition of herbs like Śṅkṣpī helps identify the active constituents responsible for cognitive enhancements, establishing scientific validation for traditional Ayurvedic practices in mental health.
39) Yashtimadhu (Yastimadhu, Yashti-madhu):
۲ṣṭ, or Glycyrrhiza glabra, is an important herb in traditional medicine with calming effects that complement cognitive health. Its interplay with koleen herbs like Śṅkṣpī exemplifies the synergistic nature of Ayurvedic treatments, striving to deliver a holistic approach to enhancing memory and managing stress.
40) Vyanavata (Vyana-vata):
ղԲ-ٲ, a sub-type of ٲ dosha, governs circulation and movement throughout the body. Its role in mental health underscores the significance of balancing this dosha for cognitive clarity, where formulations like Śṅkṣpī work to restore harmony in mental functions affected by vitiated vyāna.
41) Cancalatva (Camcalatva):
Cancalatva refers to restlessness or agitation, influencing mental clarity and cognitive functions negatively. Recognizing and addressing cancala qualities through holistic remedies like Śṅkṣpī is vital for promoting mental stability and enhancing focus, making it an essential aspect of mental health treatments in Ayurveda.
42) Discussion:
Discussion in the context of research reflects the analysis and interpretation of findings related to Śṅkṣpī. It emphasizes evaluating the implications of the study's outcomes on cognitive health, facilitating connections between Ayurvedic traditions and contemporary mental health practices, thereby fostering holistic approaches toward treatment.
43) Samprapti:
پ comprises the processes leading to the formation of diseases in Ayurveda. Understanding samprāpti helps situate herbal treatments within a framework that addresses the root causes of cognitive impairment, offering insights into how products like Śṅkṣpī can effectively counteract mental disorders holistically.
44) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is the traditional Indian system of medicine that emphasizes a balanced lifestyle, holistic health, and the interconnection between body, mind, and spirit. Central to addressing issues like cognitive decline, Ayurveda advocates for the use of herbs like Śṅkṣpī, highlighting its belief in natural healing processes.
45) Samskara:
ṃs refers to the processes and modifications applied to herbal substances to enhance their properties. In the study, saṃskāra relates to methods like bhāvita that augment the efficacy of Śṅkṣpī, illustrating the importance of preparation techniques in achieving optimal therapeutic results from herbal formulations.
46) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiated denotes the disruption of natural balance within the body's systems, often leading to health issues, including cognitive decline. Acknowledging vitiation is crucial for Ayurvedic assessments, emphasizing the need for treatments like Śṅkṣpī that restore balance and improve mental clarity.
47) Avarana:
Āṇa translates to covering or obstruction in Sanskrit, often referring to mental blocks that inhibit clarity and focus. Addressing āvaraṇa through formulations like Śṅkṣpī indicates the practical application of Ayurveda in enhancing cognitive accessibility and overall mental functionality.
48) Sadhaka:
첹 pertains to the role that supports and sustains mental processes, specifically through the balance of pitta and kapha doshas. Understanding sādhaka ensures effective Ayurvedic interventions that promote cognitive clarity and function, particularly through remedies like Śṅkṣpī targeting mental health.
49) Tarpaka:
Tarpaka refers to a specific type of kapha responsible for nourishing the brain and enhancing memory. Its significance in Ayurvedic treatments underscores the need for balancing tarpaka in cognitive therapies, where herbal interventions like Śṅkṣpī play an integral role in mental wellness.
50) Quality:
Quality encompasses the inherent characteristics of herbal substances that dictate their effectiveness in therapeutic use. Understanding and evaluating the quality of herbs like Śṅkṣpī ensures that formulations derived meet the necessary standards for cognitive enhancement and overall mental health improvement.
51) Anxiety:
Anxiety relates to mental health challenges characterized by excessive worry and unease, often affecting cognitive function. Treatment approaches in Ayurveda, such as the use of Śṅkṣpī, aim to alleviate anxiety symptoms to enhance mental clarity, demonstrating the holistic nature of Ayurvedic practices in mental health care.
52) Science (Scientific):
Science implies systematic study and understanding of natural phenomena, crucial for validating traditional practices. The exploration of herbal properties through scientific methodologies helps to bridge the gap between Ayurvedic knowledge and modern healthcare, contributing to the acceptance of treatments like Śṅkṣpī in cognitive health.
53) Shankha (Sankha, Samkha, Shamkha):
Śṅk translates to 'conch,' which signifies sound and purity in many cultures. The name Śṅkṣpī derives from its flower resembling a conch. This symbolism enhances cultural significance, reflecting the intertwining of nature and consciousness—a core component of Ayurvedic philosophy regarding mental health.
54) Guduci:
ҳḍūc, or Tinospora cordifolia, is revered in Ayurveda for its adaptogenic properties. Its usage alongside nootropic herbs emphasizes the synergistic potential in enhancing cognitive functions. It signifies the holistic emphasis in Ayurvedic pharmacology, reflecting the collaborative roles of multiple herbs in mental health formulations.
55) Samaka (Shamaka):
Ś峾첹 pertains to qualities that balance and neutralize unfavorable conditions in the body. Recognizing its relevance within the context of cognitive health stresses the need for integrative approaches using herbal remedies like Śṅkṣpī to mitigate mental disturbances and restore balance.
56) Repair:
Repair indicates the restorative processes involved in returning the body and mind to a state of balance. Reflecting on the healing potential of herbs, such as Śṅkṣpī, underscores the role of herbal medicine in supporting cognitive recovery, particularly in addressing issues related to memory and mental clarity.
57) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three doshas characterized by structure and stability. Its influence on mental health underscores the importance of balancing kapha to prevent lethargy and promote mental resilience. Treatments targeting kapha play a crucial role in cognitive enhancement in Ayurvedic practices, exemplified by Śṅkṣpī interventions.
58) Karma (Karman):
Karma signifies the implications of one's actions affecting future outcomes, including mental health. In an Ayurvedic context, understanding karma promotes a holistic lifestyle that fosters mental well-being. Assessing one's karma encourages practices that support cognitive clarity, reinforcing the mental wellness ethos in Ayurveda.
59) Medha (Medhas):
ѱ relates to intelligence and the capacity for comprehension in Ayurveda. Enhancing medhā reflects the underlying goal of cognitive treatments, especially through nootropic herbs like Śṅkṣpī, aiming to improve memory retention and intellectual capabilities across various demographics.
60) Udana:
Բ refers to a subtype of vata that governs upward movement, vital for cognitive and respiratory functions. Managing udāna through herbal treatments is critical for enhancing clarity and awareness, further establishing the essential connections between Ayurveda and mental well-being practices.
61) Vyana:
ղԲ, as a subtype of ٲ, is integral for circulation and movement in the body, influencing cerebral processes. Its balance is vital for mental functions; thus, Ayurvedic therapies aimed at restoring vyāna are essential for enhancing overall cognitive function and mental clarity, exemplified by using Śṅkṣpī.
62) Dushya (Dusya):
ūṣy refers to the metabolic waste products that can accumulate and lead to diseases within Ayurveda. Recognizing the dūṣya concept is pivotal in understanding mental health disorders, informing how formulations like Śṅkṣpī can assist in detoxifying and restoring cognitive functions.
63) Prana (Pran):
ʰṇa embodies the life force or vital energy in Ayurveda. It is integral to mental and physical well-being and underpins cognitive functions. Understanding the influence of prāṇa on mental health emphasizes the importance of practices that enhance this life energy, through methods including herbal remedies like Śṅkṣpī.
64) Shiva (Siva):
Ś is a revered deity in Hinduism often associated with asceticism and consciousness. The invocation of Ś in Ayurvedic contexts acknowledges the spiritual dimensions of health, reinforcing practices aiming at cognitive enhancement through herbal substances that align the body and mind towards tranquility and clarity.
65) Milk:
Milk is regarded for its nourishing qualities in Ayurveda, often used as a vehicle for medications. With its soothing properties and nutrient profile, it assists memory-enhancing formulations like those containing Śṅkṣpī, highlighting the importance of integrating food and herbs for optimal cognitive health.
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