Therapeutic and toxic effects of Kupilu (Strychnos nux-vomica)
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: The therapeutic and toxicological effect of kupilu (strychnos nux-vomica l.)- a review
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
*Ravi Kumar Kushwaha
P.G.Scholar, Dept. of Agad Tantra, National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur, India.
*Ramnivas Berval
P.G.Scholar, Dept. of Agad Tantra, National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur, India.
Anita Sharma
Associate Professor, Dept. of Agad Tantra, National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur, India
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: The therapeutic and toxicological effect of kupilu (strychnos nux-vomica l.)- a review
Year: 2014
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Kupilu (Strychnos nux-vomica L.) is a well-documented plant in Ayurvedic medicine, recognized for its extensive therapeutic properties despite its poisonous nature. Known as Kuchla in Ayurvedic texts, this deciduous tree is widely distributed across various tropical regions including India, Sri Lanka, and several Southeast Asian countries. While mentioned in various classical Ayurvedic sources, Kupilu has gained popularity for its application in treating a range of ailments when used after a stringent detoxification process known as "Shodhana." Its medicinal uses include remedies for nervous debility, paralysis, and chronic rheumatism among others.
Strychnine and Its Effects
Strychnine, a major alkaloid found in the seeds of Kupilu, serves as both a potent therapeutic agent and a lethal poison. Present in concentrations of approximately 1.25%-1.5%, strychnine is known for its role in producing tetanic convulsions that can lead to death even in minimal doses, highlighting its dangerous toxicity. The reported lethal dose varies, with the minimal oral dose for adults being approximately 30-120 mg. This alkaloid manifests its violent effects by inducing severe muscular contractions across nearly all muscle groups, resulting in classic symptoms such as opisthotonus and risus sardonicus. Reacting to stimuli like light or sound enhances the possibility of convulsions, underscoring the urgency of recognizing and treating strychnine poisoning.
Therapeutic Applications of Kupilu
Despite its inherent toxicity, Kupilu has notable therapeutic applications validated in both Ayurvedic and modern contexts. The plant is described as having multifaceted pharmacological actions, functioning effectively as an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and nerve tonic, while also being used for treating conditions like cholera, insomnia, and various emotional disorders. Different parts of the plant, such as the seeds and leaves, exhibit specific therapeutic uses; for example, the seeds are utilized in managing diabetes, hysteria, and various febrile illnesses. Moreover, classical Ayurvedic formulations incorporate Kupilu as a crucial ingredient to enhance efficacy in treating a spectrum of diseases. Its significance in traditional medicine, especially as a remedy for age-related ailments, stands out, indicating the potential of integrating its use with appropriate safety measures.
Conclusion
The historical and contemporary significance of Kupilu in the realm of medicinal research reveals its dual nature as both therapeutic and toxic. While inherent dangers exist due to strychnine's potent effects, the proper purification methods established in Ayurveda allow for its safe utilization in a variety of treatments. The ongoing exploration and research into Kupilu's therapeutic potential could yield novel applications in modern healthcare, reaffirming the importance of traditional knowledge systems alongside contemporary scientific inquiry. Increased understanding of its properties and effects may pave the way for innovative approaches to leveraging this powerful plant in the pharmaceutical sciences.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Kupilu and its significance in Ayurveda?
Kupilu, or Strychnos nux-vomica, is a poisonous plant used in Ayurveda for treating various ailments. It is recognized for its therapeutic benefits when processed correctly, being utilized for nervous debility, paralysis, dyspepsia, and more.
What are the toxic effects of Strychnine found in Kupilu?
Strychnine is a highly toxic alkaloid that can cause severe convulsions and muscle stiffness, impacting the body's nervous system. Even a small dose can be lethal, leading to respiratory failure if not treated immediately.
How is Kupilu used safely in medicinal applications?
Before using Kupilu, its seeds undergo a purification process known as Shodhana, which removes toxicity. The seeds are then utilized in various Ayurvedic formulations for conditions such as asthma, fever, and general debility.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for 鈥淭herapeutic and toxic effects of Kupilu (Strychnos nux-vomica)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) Kupilu:
Kupilu, also known as Strychnos nux-vomica, is a plant used in Ayurveda for its therapeutic benefits despite its toxic properties. Its seeds require purification before use and are employed in treatments for various conditions such as nervous debility and paralysis.
2) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that uses natural substances and holistic approaches to treat diseases. Kupilu is commonly used in Ayurvedic formulations after undergoing a detoxification process called Shodhana.
3) Disease:
Kupilu is employed in the treatment of several diseases, including nervous debility, paralysis, sexual weakness, and chronic rheumatism, despite its toxic nature. Its therapeutic effects are recognized in both Ayurvedic and modern medical texts.
4) Fever:
Kupilu seeds, when combined with other herbs like Maricha (Piper nigrum), are used to treat fever and other conditions associated with the imbalance of Vata dosha according to Ayurvedic practices.
5) Drug:
In Ayurvedic medicine, Kupilu is a significant drug used for its therapeutic properties after undergoing a purification process. It is incorporated into various formulations to treat ailments like fever, indigestion, and paralysis.
6) Death:
Despite its therapeutic benefits, Kupilu can cause toxicity and death if consumed in excessive doses. Strychnine, a major alkaloid in Kupilu, can lead to fatal tetanic convulsions.
7) Ravi (Ravin):
Dr. Ravi Kumar Kushwaha is one of the authors of the article reviewing the therapeutic and toxicological effects of Kupilu. He is a P.G. Scholar in the Dept. of Agad Tantra at the National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur, India.
8) Shodhana (Sodhana):
In Ayurveda, Shodhana is the purification process used to detoxify toxic substances like Kupilu. This process involves specific treatments to enhance the drug's efficacy and safety for therapeutic use.
9) India:
Kupilu (Strychnos nux-vomica) is widely distributed across India and used extensively in Ayurvedic medicine. India has a rich history of using this plant in traditional healing practices after proper purification methods.
10) Kumar:
Kumar is the middle name of Dr. Ravi Kumar Kushwaha, one of the authors of the article on the therapeutic and toxicological effects of Kupilu.
11) Pharmacological:
Kupilu has various pharmacological properties, including Tikta (bitter) and Katu (pungent) Rasa, which contribute to its therapeutic effects in treating diseases like anemia, asthma, and rheumatism.
12) Bitter:
The seeds of Kupilu possess a Tikta (bitter) Rasa, which is one of its pharmacological properties. Bitter taste is known for its therapeutic virtues in Ayurveda, especially in treating digestive issues and detoxifying the body.
13) Purification:
Purification, or Shodhana, is a critical process in Ayurveda to detoxify Kupilu seeds before they are used in medicinal formulations. This process ensures the safety and efficacy of the drug.
14) Navasadara:
Navasadara, or ammonium chloride (NH4Cl), is an ingredient used in combination with Kupilu and Hingu (asafoetida) for the treatment of indigestion and other disorders in Ayurvedic medicine.
15) Vishamushti (Visamusti, Visha-mushti):
Visamusti is one of the many synonyms for Kupilu (Strychnos nux-vomica) mentioned in Ayurvedic texts. It underscores the toxic nature of the plant, which requires proper detoxification before medicinal use.
16) Toxicity:
Kupilu is a toxic plant that contains alkaloids like strychnine and brucine. High doses can lead to severe toxicity, including tetanic convulsions, and potentially result in death.
17) Medicine:
Kupilu is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine for various therapeutic purposes after undergoing a detoxification process. It addresses conditions such as nervous debility, paralysis, and digestive disorders.
18) Epilepsy:
Kupilu seeds are used in the treatment of epilepsy in Ayurvedic medicine. Its therapeutic efficacy is enhanced after the seeds undergo purification through Shodhana processes.
19) Hysteria:
Kupilu has been historically used to treat hysteria among other emotional disorders. This therapeutic use is documented in both Ayurvedic and modern medicinal texts.
20) Tantra (Tamtra, Tantrism):
In Ayurveda, Agad Tantra is a specialization that deals with toxicology and the study of poisons. Kupilu, due to its toxic nature, is studied extensively in this branch for its therapeutic and toxicological effects.
21) Vipaka:
Vipaka refers to the post-digestive effect of a substance in Ayurveda. Kupilu has a Katu Vipaka, meaning it has a pungent post-digestive effect, which influences its therapeutic actions.
22) Jaipur:
Jaipur, India, is the location of the National Institute of Ayurveda where Dr. Ravi Kumar Kushwaha is conducting research on the therapeutic and toxicological effects of Kupilu.
23) Animal:
Animal studies have shown varying degrees of toxicity for Kupilu due to its alkaloid content. The LD50 values indicate the lethal dose for 50% of the population in different animals, demonstrating its toxic potential.
24) Hingu (Himgu):
Hingu, or asafoetida, is commonly used in Ayurvedic formulations with Kupilu to treat digestive disorders like indigestion and cholera. It helps to enhance the efficacy and safety of the treatment.
25) Lanka (Lamka, L脿nk脿):
Sri Lanka is one of the tropical regions where Kupilu (Strychnos nux-vomica) is found. The plant is used in traditional medicine practices in this region, as well as in Ayurveda.
26) Virya:
Virya refers to the potency or energy of a substance in Ayurveda. Kupilu has Ushna Virya, meaning it possesses hot potency, which influences its action in the body and its therapeutic efficacy.
27) Ulcer:
Kupilu leaves are applied as a poultice to promote healthy action in sloughing wounds or ulcers, particularly in cases involving maggots. The plant's leaves have therapeutic uses in Ayurveda for skin conditions.
28) Pulse:
During strychnine toxicity from Kupilu, one of the symptoms is a rapid pulse. Monitoring the pulse is critical in managing cases of poisoning, along with other supportive therapies.
29) Blood:
Kupilu is known to alleviate disorders caused by impure blood. In Ayurveda, it is used in treatments for conditions like anemia and other blood-related issues after undergoing Shodhana.
30) Katu:
Katu is a Sanskrit term meaning 'pungent' and is one of the tastes associated with Kupilu. In Ayurveda, Katu taste helps in digestion and detoxification, contributing to the plant's therapeutic effects.
31) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa in Ayurveda refers to the taste of a substance, which influences its therapeutic effects. Kupilu has multiple Rasas, including Tikta (bitter), Katu (pungent), and Kashaya (astringent), which determine its medicinal properties.
32) Vata:
Vata is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda that governs movement and bodily functions. Kupilu is used to balance vitiated Vata, especially in conditions like paralysis and nervous debility.
33) Tree:
Kupilu is a deciduous tree widely distributed in India and other tropical regions. The tree's seeds, leaves, and bark are used in various Ayurvedic treatments after proper detoxification processes.
34) Betel leaf:
Some natives habitually chew Kupilu seeds with betel leaf as an aphrodisiac. However, this practice carries significant risks due to the plant's toxic properties if not properly detoxified.
35) Vedanasthapana (Vedana-sthapana):
Vedanasthapana refers to pain-relieving properties in Ayurvedic medicine. Kupilu is recognized for its Vedanasthapana effects, making it useful in treating painful conditions like rheumatism and neuralgia.
36) Kushthaghna (Kusthaghna):
Kushthaghna refers to a substance that cures skin diseases in Ayurvedic terminology. Kupilu has properties that make it effective in treating various skin conditions, including kushtha (leprosy).
37) Vajikarana:
Vajikarana is a branch of Ayurveda focused on aphrodisiac therapies and enhancing sexual health. Kupilu seeds are used in Vajikarana treatments after proper purification to ensure safety and efficacy.
38) Shothahara (Sothahara, Shotha-hara):
Shothahara refers to the anti-inflammatory properties of a substance in Ayurveda. Kupilu is known for its Shothahara effects, making it useful in treating inflammatory conditions like arthritis.
39) Alcoholism:
Kupilu seeds are used as an antidote to alcoholism in Ayurvedic medicine. They help in managing the symptoms and complications associated with alcohol addiction after proper detoxification.
40) Indrayava (Indra-yava, Imdrayava):
Indrayava, or Holarrhena antidysenterica seeds, are used in combination with Kupilu seeds and Maricha (Piper nigrum) to prepare a decoction for treating fever and digestive issues in Ayurveda.
41) Kaphaghna (Kapha-ghna):
Kaphaghna refers to a substance that alleviates Kapha dosha in Ayurvedic medicine. Kupilu has Kaphaghna properties, making it useful in treating conditions associated with excess Kapha, such as asthma and bronchitis.
42) Kandughna (Kandu-ghna):
Kandughna means anti-pruritic or anti-itching in Ayurvedic terminology. Kupilu is effective in treating itching and related skin conditions, thanks to its Kandughna properties.
43) Karaskara:
Karaskara is one of the synonyms for Kupilu (Strychnos nux-vomica) mentioned in different Ayurvedic texts, highlighting its toxic nature and therapeutic significance after proper purification.
44) Agnitundi (Agni-tundi):
Agnitundi Rasa is a classical Ayurvedic formulation that includes Kupilu as an ingredient. It is used in the treatment of digestive issues and other disorders after the seeds have been detoxified.
45) Substance:
Kupilu is a substance with potent therapeutic and toxicological effects. Its use in Ayurvedic medicine requires careful purification to harness its benefits while mitigating its toxicity.
46) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiation refers to the imbalance of doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) in Ayurveda. Kupilu is used to treat conditions where doshas are vitiated, particularly focusing on nervous and digestive disorders.
47) Nighantu (Nighamtu):
Nighantu are Ayurvedic compendiums or glossaries that list various medicinal plants and their properties. Kupilu is mentioned in several Nighantus with numerous synonyms and therapeutic uses.
48) Kasahara (Kasa-hara):
Kasahara refers to the anti-cough properties of a substance in Ayurveda. Kupilu is used to treat respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis due to its Kasahara effects.
49) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana is a branch of Ayurveda focused on rejuvenation and longevity. Kupilu is used as a Rasayana during senility to counter old age problems, given its therapeutic properties after proper purification.
50) Goghrita (Goghrta, Go-ghrita):
Goghrita, or cow ghee, is one of the mediums used in the Shodhana (purification) process of Kupilu seeds in Ayurveda. This process detoxifies the seeds, making them safe for medicinal use.
51) Godugdha:
Godugdha, or cow milk, is used in Shodhana (purification) processes for Kupilu seeds. This method helps detoxify the seeds, allowing their safe use in Ayurvedic medicinal formulations.
52) Vomiting:
Kupilu seeds are used in combination with other herbs to treat vomiting and digestive disorders. Proper dosages are crucial, and purification processes make it safe for use in such treatments.
53) Madhura:
Madhura refers to the sweet taste in Ayurvedic medicine. While unripe Kupilu fruits are not sweet, ripe fruits are said to have Madhura Vipaka, contributing to their therapeutic effects.
54) Madhava:
Vrinda Madhava, an ancient Ayurvedic text, records the use of Visamusti (Kupilu) in Vatavyadhichikitsa (treatment of Vata disorders). It highlights the long history of Kupilu's therapeutic use.
55) Vishama (Visama):
Vishama Jwaranaghna refers to the property of alleviating irregular fevers. Kupilu is used in Ayurvedic treatments to manage conditions like intermittent fevers due to its Vishama Jwaranaghna effects.
56) Upavisha (Upavisa):
Upavisa are secondary poisons listed in Ayurvedic texts like Rastarangani. Kupilu is categorized under Upavisa, indicating its toxic nature and the need for proper Shodhana (detoxification) before use.
57) Jalada (Jala-da):
One of the many synonyms for Kupilu mentioned in Ayurvedic texts, Jalada is another name emphasizing its toxic attribute while also noting its potential therapeutic uses.
58) Ruksha (Ruksa):
Ruksha is a property in Ayurveda meaning 'dryness.' Kupilu possesses Ruksha Guna, contributing to its effects on the body, particularly in treating conditions associated with excess moisture or Kapha.
59) Kulaka (Kulakamtaka):
Kulaka is another synonym for Kupilu in Ayurvedic literature, indicating the plant's toxic properties and its multiple therapeutic applications after proper purification.
60) Amrita (Amrta):
In Ayurveda, Visha (poison) can act as Amrita (nectar) if utilized properly. Kupilu, despite its toxicity, has been used therapeutically for centuries following appropriate purification processes.
61) Bengal (Bemgal):
In Ayurvedic treatment for indigestion, pills made from Kupilu, Navasadara, and Hingu are sized as Bengal gram. Proper measurement ensures effective therapeutic use while minimizing risks.
62) Family:
Kupilu belongs to the family Loganiaceae. This botanical classification helps in identifying and studying the plant's pharmacological and toxicological properties.
63) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Anita Sharma is one of the authors of the article on the therapeutic and toxicological effects of Kupilu. She is an Associate Professor in the Dept. of Agad Tantra at the National Institute of Ayurveda in Jaipur.
64) Nature:
The nature of Kupilu is dual-faceted; it is both therapeutic and toxic. Proper purification processes are vital to harness its medicinal properties safely.
65) Powder:
Kupilu seeds are often used in powdered form for various Ayurvedic treatments. The powdered seeds are incorporated into formulations to treat conditions like fever, digestive issues, and paralysis.
66) Cotton:
Kupilu seeds yield a dye that gives a brown color to cotton fabrics. This dye aspect signifies the plant's multifaceted utility beyond medicinal applications.
67) Pigeon:
Toxicological studies show that pigeons have a relatively high LD50 value for strychnine, indicating the dose required to kill 50% of the pigeon population, emphasizing the toxic potency of Kupilu.
68) Indian:
Kupilu is a plant native to India and has been extensively used in Indian Ayurvedic medicine. Its therapeutic applications are deeply rooted in Indian traditional healing systems.
69) Dosha (Dosa):
In Ayurveda, Doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) are fundamental bodily energies. Kupilu is used to balance these doshas, particularly Vata and Kapha, for its therapeutic benefits.
70) Laghu:
Laghu means 'light' in Sanskrit. Kupilu's seeds have Laghu Guna, which affects the drug's therapeutic properties, particularly in enhancing digestion and easing bodily functions.
71) Tikta:
Tikta refers to the bitter taste in Ayurveda. Kupilu's Tikta Rasa is one of its key pharmacological properties, aiding in detoxification and digestion.
72) Ushna (Usna):
Ushna Virya indicates 'hot potency' in Ayurveda. Kupilu possesses Ushna Virya, which contributes to its effectiveness in treating cold-related conditions and stimulating bodily functions.
73) Kanji (Kamji):
Kanji, a type of fermented rice water, is used in the Shodhana (purification) process for Kupilu seeds. This medium helps in detoxifying the seeds while retaining their therapeutic properties.
74) Varga:
Varga refers to categories or groups in Ayurvedic texts. Kupilu is placed under Upavisa Varga in Ayurvedic literature, indicating its classification among secondary poisons.
75) Grahin (Grahi):
Grahi means 'absorbent' in Ayurveda. Kupilu has Grahi properties, making it effective in treating conditions like diarrhea and dysentery by absorbing excess fluids in the body.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 85]
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: 鈥�Therapeutic and toxic effects of Kupilu (Strychnos nux-vomica)鈥�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Vata, Purification process, Rheumatism, Aphrodisiac, Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia, Therapeutic use, Pharmacological properties, Chemical composition, Shodhana process, Compound formulation, Brihat-trayee, Nervous debility, Therapeutic utilities, Treatment of toxicity, Anti diarrhoeal.