The fruits of plant Piper longum are known as Pippali/Pipri and the roots as Pippali or Pippala Mool. Both are used for medicinal purpose in Ayurveda. The roots are anti-inflammatory, analgesic, carminative, laxative, and expectorant. They are hot in potency and used to treat diseases that occur due to vitiation of Vata (air) and Kapha (phlegm) Dosha/humour. Due to hot potency the roots are used in digestive weakness and excessive phlegm inside body.

Pippali roots relieves inflammations, edema and restores the structures of the body to normalcy, improves appetite, and relieves flatulence. It is stomachic, digestive, pungent, hot, and very useful for digesting food, bile producing and laxative.

Pippali Moola has milder effects than Pippali. It is available in small cylindrical pieces of nodal and internodal pieces, about 2 mm thick. The nodal pieces are considered superior to intermodal ones.

General Information

Piper longum is perennial herb with a thick, erect, jointed, branched rootstock, stems numerous 60—90 cm long,, ascending or prostrate (not climbing), much branched, stout, cylindrical, thickened above nodes, finely pubescent.

The leaves are simple, alternate, numerous, 3.7—8.7 cm long, lower ones broadly ovate, very cordate with broad rounded lobes at base, upper ones oblongoval, cordate at base, all subacute, entire, glabrous, thin, bullate with reticulate venation sunk above and raised beneath, dark green and shining above, pale and dull beneath, petioles of lower leaves 5—7.5 cm long, stout, of upper ones very short or none, stipules about 1.2 cm long, membranous, lanceolate, obtuse, enclosing the bud but soon falling off.

flowers naked, unisexual, dioecious, sessile in axils of fleshy bracts supported by two lateral bracts arranged in solitary, pedunculate spikes, male spikes slender, bracts narrow, female spikes 1.2—2.5 cm long, bracts circular, flat, peltate, perianth absent, stamens 2, anther 2-celled.

Ovary superior unilocular with a solitary erect ovule, stigmas 3 or 4, short, spreading, persistent.

Fruit very small ovoid, completely sunk in solid fleshy spike which is 2.5—3.7 cm long, ovoid-oblong, erect blunt, blackish green and shining.

Root is greyish brown in colour,longitudinally wrinkled and having roots and root scars on the surface. It is stout, cylindrical, 0.2-0.6 cm thick, reddish brown to grey. It is aromatic and tastes pungent.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Pippali is Piper longum. It belongs to plant family Piperaceae.

Piperaceae is a large tropical family, having more than 10 genera and approximately 1500 species. This family belongs to class dicotyledons but due to its unique anatomical features it resembles monocotyledon.

Piperaceae family comprises of two larger genera, Piper and Peperomia. The genus Piper, the largest in the family, occurs throughout the tropical and sub-tropical regions. Most important economic species of this genus include Piper nigrum, Piper betle (Paan / Betle leaf), Chavya (Piper cubeba) and Piper longam (Pippali / long pepper). Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
• Subclass: Magnoliidae
• Order: Piperales
• Family: Piperaceae – Pepper family
• Genus: Piper L. – pepper
• Species: Piper longum
• Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: The fruits and Roots
• Plant type: Herb
• Habitat: Hotter parts of India

Distribution: From the central Himalayas to Assam, Khasi and Mikir hills, lower hills of Bengal, evergreen forests of Western Ghats from Konkan to Travancore, also the Car Nicobar Islands.

Also cultivated in Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Malaysia and Singapore.

Vernacular names / Synonyms

• Scientificname: Piper longum
• Sanskrit: Pippalimuula, piplamul, Pippali-Jataa, Granthi, Shadgranthi, Granthika, Maagadhi-muula, Kanaamuula, Krishnaamuula Pippaliamuula
• Bengali: Pipulmul
• English: Piper root, Indian Long Pepper roots
• Gujrati: Gantoda, Ganthoda
• Hindi: Piparamula
• Kannada: Modikaddi, Hippali, Tippali, Modi
• Malayalam: Kattuthippaliver, Tippaliveru
• Marathi: Pimplimula
• Oriya: Pippalimula, Bana Pippalimula
• Punjabi: Pippalimula, Magha
• Tamil: Kanda Tippili, Ambinadi Desavaram
• Telugu: Modi, Madikatta
• Urdu: Filfil Daraz
• Unani: Bekh-Filfil Daraaz , Bekh-Daarfilfil, Peeplamool

Constituents of Piper longum

Piper longum root gave the alkaloids piperine, Piplartine (piperlongumine) and piperlonguminine,

sesamin, methyl-j, 4, y-trlmethoxycinnamate.

Piperine has hypotensive, antipyretic, CNS-stimulant, analeptic activity. It improves availability of medicine for absorption.

Important Medicinal Properties

The roots of Pippali plant (Pippali Mula) have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect is nearly equal to that of Ibuprofen according to a study on animals. This indicates that Piper longum Linn root has weak opioid but potent NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory) type of analgesic activity.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

• Antibacterial: Active against bacteria.
• Antispasmodic: Antispasmodic: Used to relieve spasm of involuntary muscle.
• Anti-inflammatory: Reducing inflammation by acting on body mechanisms.
• Anthelmintic: Expel Parasitic worms (helminths) and other internal parasites from the body.
• Analgesic: Relieve pain.
• Carminative: Preventing the formation or causing the expulsion of flatulence.
• Digestive: Digestant.
• Diuretic: Promoting excretion of urine/agent that increases the amount of urine excreted.
• Emmenagogue: Stimulates or increases menstrual flow.
• Expectorant: Promotes the secretion of sputum by the air passages, used to treat coughs.
• Laxative: Tending to stimulate or facilitate evacuation of the bowels.
• Thermogenic: Warming

Ayurvedic Properties and Action

Pippali Mula is pungent in taste (Rasa), pungent after digestion (Vipaka), and is hot in effect (Virya).

The Pungent (Katu), Hot (Ushna), Penetrative (Teekshna), Dry (Ruksha), Light (Laghu) properties (guans) act against vitiated Air Humour (Vata) and Phlegm (Kapha).

• Rasa: Katu
• Guna: Laghu, Ruksha
• Virya: Ushna
• Vipaka: Katu
• Tissues: All but bone
• Systems: Digestive, reproductive, respiratory

Action / Karma

• Deepana: Promote appetite but do not aid in digesting undigested food
• Kaphahara: Pacifies Kapha Dosha
• Pachan: Assist in digesting undigested food, but do not increase the appetite
• Pitta vardhak: Increases pitta
• Ruchikarak: Improve taste
• Vatahara: Pacifies Vata Dosha
• Vatanulomana: Takes vata / wind downward, mild laxative

Pipri mula is an Ushna Virya herb. Ushna Virya or hot potency herb, subdues Vata (Wind) and Kapha (Mucus) and increases Pitta (Bile). It has property of digestion, vomiting and purging, and gives feeling of lightness. It is considered bad for sperms and fetus.

It is a Katu Vipak herb. Vipak refers to post-digestive (effect after digestion / cooking of Rasa) effect of tastes after its mixing with digestive juices. It is the long term effect of herb.

Katu Viapk herbs / foods, pungent after digestion. It increases dryness in body. Such foods reduce fertility and Kapha. Katu vipaak has catabolic effect on body.

Important Formulations

1. Panchakola Churna
2. Dashamhula Taila
3. Dashamhulapancakoladi Kvatha Churna

Therapeutic Uses

1. Anaha (Constipation), Arsha (piles), Gulma, Udararoga (diseases of abdomen), Pliha roga (spleen disorders)
2. Kshaya (Pulmonary tuberculosis), Grahani (Dysentery)
3. Shvasa (dyspnoea), cough, cold, and chronic bronchitis
4. Krimiroga (intestinal parasites)
5. Vishama jvara (intermittent fever),
6. Urustambha (stiffness of thigh), Vatavyadhi (Nervous diseases)
7. Nidranasha (Insomnia), Headache

Medicinal Uses of Piper longum (Pippalimool)

Pippalimool or roots of Pippali (long pepper) plant, are used in dried powder (reddish-brown to creamy-grey bitter powder) form with warm water, milk or preferably with ghee. When used with Ghee, the drying and hot properties of Pippalamula are balanced. This combination is beneficial in headaches due to vitiation of Vata.

1. For sleeplessness and high blood pressure, the Pippla Moola churna should be taken with cold water, twice a day.
2. The decoction of roots is prepared by boiling the 2 tablespoon of roots in one glass water and cooking till water reduces to half cup. This is filtered and taken twice a day.
3. Pippali roots can be taken in form of tea for cold, cough and congestion. For making the tea, the powder is boiled in water and sugar and milk is added.
4. In case of enlarged liver and spleen, five grams root powder and one gram pippali fruit powder is boiled in 200 ml water and cooked for few minutes. This is filtered and taken.

Dosage of Piper longum

1. Dose of the powder for adults is 2 to 3 grams and for children it is 250 mg to 500 mg, to be taken twice daily, preferably on an empty stomach mixed with 3 to 5 gm of ghee or butter or Honey and followed by warm water or milk.
2. Contraindications, Interactions, Side-effects and Warnings Piper longum
3. No toxic effect or adverse reaction is reported with recommended dose of Pippali root powder.
4. It is hot in potency, it decreases Vata and Kapha and increases pitta. So it should be used carefully in person with pitta Prakriti.
5. It should not be used if tissues are inflamed.
6. It should be taken only in recommended doses. High doses causes burning sensation and vitiation of all Dosha.
7. Avoid in pregnancy and lactation.
8. Avoid in blisters, dryness and persistent bitter taste in the mouth, red eyes, hot and watery face, inflammation of the body, inflammations of the intestines and high pitta.
9. Low dose is safe for long-term use.
10. Do not use at a high dose for long periods of time.

Mankind Manforce Tablet is an Allopathic medicine, manufactured by Mankind Pharma. This medicine is citrate salt of sildenafil and used in treatment of ED, erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction (ED) or impotence is the inability to get or keep an erection firm enough to have sexual intercourse. Manforce Tablet works by increasing blood flow to penis to maintain better erection and relaxing the muscles.

Manforce Tablet, helps in treatment of ED but it is not the cure for the condition. It is neither a hormone nor an aphrodisiac. This medicine helps to maintain the erection when man is sexually excited. Manforce Tablet is taken about an hour before the sexual intercourse. It should be taken only once a day. Excess dose has many side effects on body.

Here is given more about this medicine, such as benefits, indication/therapeutic uses, composition and dosage.

• Brand: Mankind Pharmaceuticals
• Category: Viagra
• For: Men only
• Indication: Impotence
• Contains: Sildenafil citrate
• Schedule H drug: to be sold by retail on the prescription of a Registered Medical Practitioner only.
• Price: Rs.247.50 for 9 tabs for 50mg and Rs. 232.00 for 4 tabs 100 mg.

Composition of Mankind Manforce Tablet

1. Sildenafil Citrate
2. Chemical Formula: 1-[[3-(6,7-dihydro-1-methyl-7-oxo-3-propyl-1H-pyrazolo[4,3d]pyrimidin-5-yl)-4-ethoxyphenyl]sulfonyl]-4-methylpiperazine citrate
3. Sildenafil Citrate is a selective inhibitor of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)-specific phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5). It is a white to off-white crystalline powder. It is absorbed in body rapidly. But when taken with fat meals, its absorption is lowered.
4. Sildenafil Citrate is excreted as metabolites predominantly in the feces (approximately 80% of administered oral dose) and to a lesser extent in the urine (approximately 13% of the administered oral dose).

Availability

• Manforce 50 mg
• Manforce 100 mg

Important Therapeutic Uses of Mankind Manforce Tablet

1. Erectile dysfunction
2. Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)
3. Dosage of Mankind Manforce Tablet
4. For most men, the most suitable dose is 50 mg.
5. Preferably, it should be taken as needed, approximately 1 hour before sexual activity. Though it can be taken anywhere from half an hour to 4 hours before sexual activity.
6. Depending on toleration and effectiveness, it can be reduced to 25 mg or increased to 100 mg.
7. It is taken once a day only.

Side-effects, Contraindications, Interaction and Warning

1. It has systemic vasodilatory properties.
2. It lowers the blood pressure.
3. It does not cure but treats erectile dysfunction.
4. It is not an aphrodisiac or hormone.
5. It helps to get an erection on being sexually excited. You will not get erection just by taking pill.
6. If you are older than age 65, have serious liver or kidney problems, taking protease inhibitors, prostate problems, high blood pressure start with lowest dose (25 mg).
7. It should be used cautiously in resting hypotension (BP <90/50) or hypertension (BP >170/110); cardiac failure or coronary artery disease causing unstable angina and sickle cell or related Anemia.
8. Use cautiously in patients with anatomical deformation of the penis (such as angulation, cavernosal fibrosis or Peyronie’s disea
9. It should not be generally used in men who have sexual dysfunction due to cardiovascular status.
10. High dose (200-800mg) can cause decreased blood pressure, syncope, and prolonged erection.
11. Prolonged erection greater than 4 hours and priapism (painful erections greater than 6 hours in duration) have been reported infrequently in high doses. Person must contact doctor because untreated priapism causes penile tissue damage and permanent loss of potency.
12. Drug interacts with alpha-blockers leading to symptomatic hypotension (e.g. dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting).
13. The safety of medicine is unknown in patients with Bleeding disorders and patients with active peptic ulceration.
14. Do notuse with other erection enhancing medicines.
15. It has no effect on sperm motility or morphology, and fertility.
16. It must not be taken by patients who take nitrate containing medicines (angina treating medicines, nitroglycerin, sosorbide mononitrate and isosorbide dinitrate). As interaction of two will drop the blood pressure to unsafe level.
17. Side-effects: In some men it can cause, headache, Flushing, Dyspepsia, nasal congestion, Urinary tract infection, increased sensitivity to light or blurred vision, diarrhea, Dizziness and Rash. Few people also report respiratory tract infection, back pain, flu syndrome, and arthralgia.

Suranjan is Unani name of Colchicum luteum Baker, a type of lily plant with yellow flowers. It is found growing on grassy slopes in the temperate Himalayas, Afghanistan and Turkestan.

The corm or rhizome of plant is used for therapeutic purpose. It is traditionally used for headache, gout, rheumatism, diseases of the liver and spleen. In Afghanistan, the roots were used in preparation of a medicine Harantutiha.

Types of Suranjan

There are two varieties of Suranjan available in the market, Sweet and Bitter. The bitter variety contains alkaloid Colchicine in fairly large amount whereas Sweet variety contains traces of this alkaloid in physiologically inactive form. Both varieties are pain relieving, anti-gout, anti-rheumatic, purgative and emetic.

• Suranjan Talkh (Bitter variety)
• Suranjan Shirin (Sweet variety)

Suranjan Talkh, is differentiated from Suranjan Shireen by its bitter taste, smaller size, and darker colour. Suranjan Talkh is preferred for external use in gout whereas Suranjan Shireen (Meetha Suranjan) is used for internal purpose. Suranjan is indicated in arthritis, gout, rheumatism, and constipation.

Suranjan is included in list of poisonous plants of India. It must be used with caution. It is toxic plant due to presence of from several alkaloids (mainly colchicine, demecolcine and colchicoside), which are present in all plant parts.

Alkaloid Colchicine

The alkaloid, Colchicine present in the form of bitter variety of Colchicum luteum and Colchicum autumnale, is an amorphous, yellowish-white alkaloid, which darkens on exposure to light and gives a yellow coloration with strong mineral acids. It is a weak base and readily dissolves in water, alcohol or chloroform but is only slightly soluble in ether or petroleum spirit.

Colchicine is effective in treatment of gout and periodic diseases though the exact mechanism of action by which it works is not known. This phytochemical has anti-gout and anti-inflammatory activities. It can be used as an option to relieve gout attacks for people who cannot take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for some reason. Colchicine is considered best remedies for acute gout pain. Colchicine is frequently prescribed in tablet form and transdermal preparations containing colchicine are the subject of a Japanese patent. It is available in Homeopathy as tincture.

General Information

Suranjan is the conical or gibbously avoid corm of Colchicum luteum Baker. The corm is enlarged underground stem bearing foliage leaves, sheathing leaves and fibrous roots. It is off white to brownish white in colour. The corm is flattened on one side and the other side has a longitudinal groove in the middle extending throughout the length. The apex is marked by dark depression representing the position of flowering shoot and a prominent dark brown scar at the base, marking the point of attachment with parent corm. The smooth surface is marked by indefinite and irregular longitudinal striations. The corm is nearly odourless with bitter and starchy taste. Cross section of corm shows the single layered epidermis which consists of rectangular to squarish, slightly thick walled parenchymatous cells filled with starch granules and coated with thick cuticle. Cells of ground tissue are polygonal to oval to spherical, slightly thick walled, compact and filled with starch granules.

Starch granules are simple spherical and are of 4.5-23.0 μ in size but usually compounded with 2-4 or more components which are often muller shaped. A well marked central hilum, which is irregularly oval in smaller granules and triangular to sttelate in larger granules. Vascular bundles are numerous conjoint, collateral or bi-collateral and scattered in the ground tissue.

Leaves are few, lorate, linear-oblong or oblanceolate, obtuse, appearing with the flowers, short at flowering time, at fruiting IS-3~ em. by 8-13 mm., tip rounded.

Flowering takes place in spring. Flowers are 1-2, 2.5-3.8 cm. diameter when expanded. perianth golden yellow, tube 7.5-10 em., segments oblong or oblanceolate, obtuse, many-nerved. Stamens shorter than the perianth. Filaments very much shorter than the long yellow anthers. Style filiform, much longer than the perianth. Capsule 2.5·3.8 cm.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Suranjan is Colchicum luteum. It belongs to plant family Liliaceae. The genus derives its name from Colchis on the Black Sea, one of the places where this plant is found. The drug was recommended in Arabian writings for use in gout.

Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Liliopsida – Monocotyledons
• Subclass: Liliidae
• Order: Liliales
• Family: Liliaceae – Lily family
• Genus: Colchicum L. – colchicum
• Species: Colchicum luteum L. – Suranjan
• Species: Colchicum autumnale L. – autumn crocus

Colchicum autumnale, a flowering plant commonly known as autumn crocus, meadow saffron or naked lady, is found wild in Europe and Africa, and cultivated in North America is used in West for medicinal purpose. Alkaloid Colchicine is prepared from dried corms and seeds of Colchicum autumnale and used for gout.

This plant species grows as weed in Europe but it is not found in India. Colchicum luteum, which is found in Himalaya is a good substitute of this plant.

German Commission E monograph recognized the efficacy of Colchicum autumnale in the following conditions:

• Gout
• Mediterranean fever

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Corm

Plant type: herb

Distribution: West temperate Himalaya from Kashmir to the

Himachal Pradesh at 700-2800 m. Also found in Afghanistan, China in the Himalayan range.

Habitat: Stony or earthy hillsides and alpine meadows at higher altitudes.

Vernacular names / Synonyms

1. Scientific name: Colchicum luteum (Colchicum luteum is a good substitute for Colchicum autumnale)
2. Ayurvedic: Hiranyatuttha
3. Unani: Suranjaan talkh
4. Tehran: Surinjan-i-kirmani
5. Persia: Surinjan-i-talkh
6. Greek: Hermodactyl (finger of Hermes)
7. English: Hermodactyls, Colchicum, Meadow Saffron, Autumn Crocus

Constituents of Colchicum luteum

Fresh corm contains about 0.95% alkaloids. Up to about 0.6% colchicine, other related alkaloids and starch are present in the corm. Aerial parts also contain colchicine but in lesser amount.

1. Colchicine
2. Colchicoside
3. N-deacetyl-N-formyl-colchicine

Unani Properties

Yellow or black variety of Colchicum luteum is known as Suranjaan talkh in Unani and is externally used in swellings, rheumatic affections. For internal use, the white variety is used, known as Suranjaan shireen is used.

It possess following properties:

1. Mamooli Mus-hil (Mild purgative): Discharges one or two stool.
2. Moarriq (Sudorific): Causes sweat.
3. Mufatteh (Deobstruent): remove the obstruction in form of thick or sticky secretion or any other form.
4. Mudirat Safra (Cholagogue): increase production of bile in liver. Also a liver tonic.

Unani Medicines

Given below is the list of few Unani medicines available over the counter:

1. Habbe Suranjan
2. Roghan Suranjan
3. Majun Suranjan

Important Medicinal Properties

Colchicum luteum is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

• Anaphrodisiac: Reduces sexual libido.
• Anti-inflammatory: Reducing inflammation by acting on body mechanisms.
• Anti-gout: Relieves inflammation and pain of acute gout but does not increase expulsion of uric acid.
• Antiphlogistic: Reducing inflammation or fever.
• Antimitotic: Inhibit mitosis.
• Antirheumatic: Alleviating or preventing rheumatism.
• Antitumor: preventing or inhibiting the formation or growth of tumors
• Carminative: Preventing the formation or causing the expulsion of flatulence.
• Cathartic: Purgative
• Diaphoretic: Promote sweating.
• Diuretic: Promoting excretion of urine/agent that increases the amount of urine excreted.
• Emetic: Causes vomiting.
• Poison: Toxic
• Sedative: Promoting calm or inducing sleep

Medicinal Uses of Colchicum luteum (Suranjan)

1. Suranjan has bitter bad taste. It gives relief in gas, flatulence and constipation. It reduces swelling, inflammation and pain and hence used in treatment of gout, rheumatism and similar joint affections.
2. Suranjan is applied on piles to reduce pain and heal wounds.
3. For Pain, inflammation, stiffness and degenerative changes in joints, Mix powder of Shallaki (Boswellia serrata) 1 part + Suranjana (Colchicum luteum) 1 part, and take half gram with water for 2 months.

Dosage of Colchicum luteum

1. Powder of sweet variety is taken in dose of 1-3 g.
2. For an acute attack of gout, an initial oral dose corresponding to 0.5 colchicine, followed by to 1 mg - 1.5 mg can be given by the physician. Total daily dosage must not exceed 8 mg of colchicine.

Contraindications, Interactions, Side-effects and Warnings Colchicum luteum (Bitter variety of Suranjan)

1. Do not take in pregnancy. It may cause fetal abnormalities.
2. It is contraindicated in debility, cardiac, kidney, or gastrointestinal problems.
3. Side effects include alopecia, aplastic anemia, diarrhea, enterosis, leukopenia, myopathy, nausea, skin alterations, vomiting, violent purging, serious inflammation of the stomach and bowels, and death.
4. It is a toxic plant.
5. It must not be used for longer period of times.
6. Prolonged use may cause agranulocytosis (deficiency of granulocytes in the blood, causing increased vulnerability to infection), aplastic anaemia (deficiency of all types of blood cell caused by failure of bone marrow development) and peripheral nerve inflammation (damage to or disease affecting nerves).
7. In larger doses it is lethal.

Manforce Staylong Gel is an allopathic cream / gel for external use, manufactured by Mankind Pharma. This gel is used in preventing Premature ejaculation PE / early (EE) / rapid ejaculation (RE), the common male sexual dysfunction.

Premature Ejaculation involves

1. Short ejaculatory latency: ejaculation always or nearly always occurs prior to or within about 1 minute of vaginal penetration

2. Lack of control over ejaculation: inability to delay ejaculation on all or nearly all vaginal penetrations.

3. Lack of sexual satisfaction: poor sexual performance leading to distress, frustration and/or the avoidance of sexual encounters

The ingredients of gel belong to the amide class of local anesthetics. Lidocaine and prilocaine block sodium ion channels required for the initiation and conduction of neuronal impulses, resulting in local anesthesia to the glans penis mucosal surface and thus preventing primary premature ejaculation in adult men.

Here is given more about this medicine, such as benefits, indication/therapeutic uses, composition and dosage.

• Brand: Mankind Pharma
• Category: Cream / gel
• For: Premature ejaculation (PE)
• Dosage Form / Route: Cream / topical
• Availability as: 1 gm Sachet and 10 gm Tube
• Price / MRP: Rs. 19.45 for 1 gram sachet and Rs. 126.00 for 10 gm Tube

Composition of Manforce Staylong Gel

Active substance: lidocaine and prilocaine gel (Anaesthetics, local)

The chemical name of lidocaine is 2-(diethylamino)-N-(2, 6-dimethylphenyl) acetamide. It is a white or almost white, crystalline powder, practically insoluble in water and very soluble in alcohol and in methylene chloride.

The chemical name of prilocaine is N-(2-methylphenyl)-2-propylamino-propanamide. Prilocaine is a white or almost white, crystalline powder, slightly soluble in water and very soluble in acetone and in ethanol.

Lidocaine has a rapid onset of action and anaesthesia is obtained within a few minutes, with an intermediate duration of action. Prilocaine has a slower onset of action with slightly longer duration of action.

The combination of lidocaine and prilocaine provides a rapid onset of action, optimized penetration, maximum depth of neural blockade and lesser time of onset of numbness. The gel also contains other ingredients and purified water.

Important Therapeutic Uses of Manforce Staylong Gel

Manforce Staylong Gel is indicated for the treatment of primary premature ejaculation in adult men.

What is premature ejaculation (PE)?

Premature ejaculation (PE) is most common male sexual disorder. It is inability to control or delay ejaculation, and thus affecting both partners.

PE is the occurrence of ejaculation before or very soon after the beginning of intercourse (occurs prior to or within about one minute of vaginal penetration). It is persistent or recurrent condition and occur after minimal sexual stimulation. The person ejaculates before, on, or shortly after penetration and before the person wishes it. The patient has little or no voluntary control.

Though it does not involve any impairment of fertility, when intravaginal ejaculation occurs but causes poor sexual performance, distress, bother, frustration and/or the avoidance of sexual intimacy.

How to Use Manforce Staylong Gel

• The gel should be applied before sexual intercourse.
• Apply the gel for 20 minutes on penis.
• Apply thinly to the glans penis and distal shaft and covered by a condom for 20-25 minutes. If the condom is removed for intercourse, residual cream should be washed off.
• The use of condom is required to minimize the effect of the cream upon vaginal sensation, as it may cause lower sensation.
• The high water content of this mixture enables it to penetrate the intact skin of the penis.
• 20 min of application time before sexual contact is the optimum period. It will increase the time before ejaculation by 6-8 minutes.
• If you apply more than 30 minutes there are chances of erection loss because of numbness.

Side effects

1. The most common side effects are hypoaesthesia (reduced sensation) and genital burning in both men and women, plus erectile dysfunction in men and headache, influenza, naso-pharyngitis and vulvovaginal discomfort in female sexual partners.
2. There is reduced feeling in and around the penis.
3. There is lesser feeling in and around vagina on contact.
4. It may reduce sperm motility.
5. Use with Caution in patients with Anaemia, congenital or acquired methaemoglobinaemia or patients on concomitant therapy.
6. A higher rate of erectile dysfunction and male genital hypoaesthesia may be experienced when using it with male condoms.
7. Care should be taken not to allow gel to come in contact with the eye, as it may cause eye irritation. Also the loss of protective reflexes can permit corneal irritation and potential abrasion.
8. If contact with the eye occurs, immediately rinse the eye with cold water or saline solution and cover them gently until any effects, such as numbness, wear off.
9. When contacted with female genitalia or anal lining, it could be absorbed and temporary local numbness/anesthesia is likely to result. This hypoaesthesia may mask normal pain sensations and, therefore, increase the dangers of localized injury as it reduce the ability to feel pain.

Do not use if

1. If you or your sexual partner are allergic to lidocaine or prilocaine or any of the other ingredients of this medicine.
2. If you or your sexual partner have a history of allergy or sensitivity to other local anaesthetics with a similar structure (known as amide-type local anaesthetics).
3. Patients hoping to achieve conception should either avoid using this Gel, or, if it is essential to achieve penetration, should wash the glans penis as thoroughly as possible prior to intercourse. It may reduce the possibility of pregnancy.

Excessive uses can cause

1. Symptoms of using too much Gel are listed below:
2. Feeling light-headed or dizzy
3. Tingling of the skin around the mouth and
4. Numbness of the tongue
5. Abnormal taste
6. Blurred vision
7. Ringing in the ears
8. There is also a risk of a disorder reducing the amount of oxygen in the blood (methaemoglobinaemia). This is more likely when certain medicines have been taken at the same time.
9. In serious cases of overdose, symptoms may include fits, low blood pressure, slowed breathing, stopped breathing and altered heartbeat. These effects may be life-threatening.

Rauvolfia serpentina is known by many common names such as Serpentwood, The Himalayan snakeroot, Serpentina root, Serpentine root, Rauwolfia, Chandrabhaga and Sarpagandha. Sarpagandha is a medicinal plant and its leaves and roots are used mainly for therapeutic purpose. It is the main herb for hypertension.

The dried roots of plant are source of the pharmacologically important alkaloids such as reserpine, rescinnamine, deserpidine, ajamalacine, ajmaline, neoajmalin, serpentine, a-yohimbine. The plant received world recognition after isolation of alkaloid reserpine by Swiss scientists in year 1952 (Muller, Schlitter and Bain). Reserpine based medicines are prescribed as antihypertensive and antipsychotic drugs.

By Forestowlet - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=34757318

---

The main biomedical action of the roots are alterative, antispasmodic, analgesic, carminative, hypotensive, nervine, sedative and vasodilatory. Roots are sedative due to presence of several alkaloids and used in treatment of mild to moderate hypertension (high blood pressure), stress, certain forms of insanity, insomnia and cardiac oedema. The bark, leaves, and roots are used against snake and scorpion poisoning. The juice of the leaves is used as a remedy for the removal of opacities of the cornea.

In Ayurvedic formulations, Sarpagandha is prescribed in treatment of high blood pressure, insomnia, asthma, acute stomach ache and painful delivery and for mental illness (neuropsychiatric disorders, psychosis, schizophrenia). It is used in snake-bite, insect stings, and mental disorders.

Sarpagandha, is also used in treatment of other diseases such as gastric tumor, general weakness, goiter, hysteria, insomnia, insanity, lipoma, paraplegia, paratyphoid, piles, pneumonia, splenomegaly, stomach disorder, tonsillitis, traumatic wound, tuberculosis and vertigo and pain in abdomen, body, and chest.

There is no doubt that Sarpgandha lowers blood pressure. It dilates blood vessel and has sedative effects. But it also causes many side effects. For example, alkaloid Reserpine has potent hypotensive and tranquillizer effect but its prolonged usage stimulates prolactine release and causes breast cancer. There are many other side effects of this herb including muscles relaxation, decrease of fertility, lowering of male hormones, abnormal heart rhythm, acidosis and shock. It must not be taken in ulcers, ulcerative colitis and depression.

Sarpagandha has depressive effects which can persist long after its use. So any one suffering from depression should not take its root powder. The most common side effects or negative effects on health include dizziness, headache, faintness, drowsiness, redness of eyes, dry mouth, diarrheas, impotence (erection problems), and low sex drive. The other less common side effects are irregular/slow heartbeat, chest pain, shortness of breath, stiffness, trembling of hands, swelling in feet and legs etc. Few rare side-effects include rash, skin itchiness, sore throat, fever, pain in abdomen, nausea, vomiting, Bleeding, nightmares, and urinary problems.

People suffering from epilepsy, and those who have given general or spinal anesthesia should take it only after consulting doctor. People above the age of 60 should avoid taking it as they are at the greater risk of suffering its side-effects.

Please read on to know benefits, harmful effects, side effects, drug interactions, contraindications of this medicinal. This page is intended to give right information about the herb, so that people can use it safely.

General Information

Rauvolfia is a perennial undershrub widely distributed in India in the sub- Himalayan tracts upto 1,000 m as well as, in the lower ranges of the Eastern and Western Ghats and in the Andamans.

It is an herbaceous perennial with a long, vertical, yellowish, somewhat tuberous, nodular rootstock and simple, woody stems, 30—60 cm high.

Leaves are simple, in whorls of 3, exstipulate, confined to the ends of branchlets, 7—13.5 cm long, 2.3—5 cm broad, lanceolate, tapering to both ends, undulate, glabrous, thin, light green, lateral veins 7—11 pairs, petioles 5—8 mm long.

Flowers are regular, bisexual, 1.3 cm diameter, on short pedicels 8 mm long, in rather close, irregular corymbose cymes, peduncle terminal, erect, glabrous, 1.5—3.5 cm long, bracts small, 2.5—3 mm long, 1 mm broad, filiform. Calyx segments 5, free, 3—3.5 mm long, 1—1.5 mm broad, linear, glabrous, acute or subacute ; corolla segments fused into a long, glabrous tube, about 2 cm long, pink, dilated 1.2 cm from base at insertion of stamens, above this corolla tube bent and of a lighter shade of pink, lobes 5,white or bright red, 6 mm long, 4 mm broad, oblong, rounded, convolute, contorted, overlapping anti-clockwise. Stamens 5, inserted above the middle of the corolla-tube.

Fruit a follicle, up to 0.8 cm long, more or less connate, minutely apiculate, glabrous, purplish-black when ripe.

The root pieces are mostly about 8 to 15 cm long and 0.5 to 2 cm in thickness, sub-cylindrical, curved, stout, thick and rarely branched. The outer surface greyish-yellow to brown with irregular longitudinal fissures. The rootlets are 0.1mm in diameter fracture, short, slight odour. The roots are bitter in taste.

The root powder is coarse to fine, yellowish-brown, free flowing, and has slight odour. There are simple to compound starch grains, calcium oxalate prisms and clusters.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of is Rauvolfia serpentina. It belongs to plant family Apocynaceae and Genus Rauvolfia.

Family Apocynaceae mainly consists of trees, shrubs, or vines. There are about 155 genera and 2000 species distributed primarily in the tropics and subtropics. They are poorly represented in the temperate regions.

Few other medicinally important plants belonging to family Apocynaceae are Alstonia scholaris (Saptaparna), Catharanthus roseus (Sadabahar), Holarrhena antidysenterica (Kutaj), Nerium oleander (Kaner) and Wrightia tomentosa (Pala indigo plant or dyers's oleander).

Genus Rauvolfia is named in honor of German physician, Leonhard Rauwolf and consists of more than 100 species distributed throughout the world in moist tropical forests.

Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
• Subclass: Asteridae
• Order: Gentianales
• Family: Apocynaceae – Dogbane family
• Genus: Rauvolfia L. – devil's-pepper
• Species: Rauvolfia serpentina (L.) Benth. ex Kurz – serpentine wood

Synonym (s):

• Ophioxylon serpentinum L.
• Ophioxylon trifoliatum Gaertn.
• Tabernaemontana cylindracea Wall

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Roots with bark, roots and leaves

Plant type: Shrub

Native: Originated from South-East Asia, indigenous to India.

Distribution: Found in India including tropical Himalayas, from Punjab to Nepal, Sikkim, Bhutan, Assam, Western Ghats and the Andamans.

Also distributed in Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, Laos, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Vietnam.

Habitat: Tropical regions, in shady places among grass and as an undershrub in moist areas. It cannot stand the full open sun. In its natural habitat the plant thrives under the shade of forest trees or at the very edge of the forests where three of the four sides are protected against too intense sunlight. It grows more frequent under the shade of Sal (Shorea robusta), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Vibhitaki (Terminalia bellerica), Asna (Terminalia alata), Sisso (Dalbergia sisso), Khayar (Acacia catechu) and Karma (Adina cordifolia).

The plant grows in a wide variety of soils from sandy alluvial loam to red lateritic loam or stiff dark loam. The soil should be acidic with pH about 4.0-7.0.

Ecological adaptation: Grows in both evergreen and deciduous forests as undergrowth and also along the edge of the hill forests of high rainfall areas.

Plant status: Endangered

Flowering: from March to May and November.

Propagation and management: Propagated through seeds, root cuttings, root stumps and stem cuttings.

Safety Profile: UNSAFE in pregnancy.

Vernacular names / Synonyms

Latin name: Rauvolfia serpentina

Sanskrit: Nakuli, Chandrika, Chandramarah, Ahibhuka, Ahilata, Ahimardani, Bhadra, Bhujangakshi, Chandrasura, Chandrika, Charmahantri, Gandhanakuli, Ishwari, Karavi, Mahaahigandha, Mahasugandha, Nagagandha, Nagasugandha, Nakuladhya, Nakuleshta, Nakuli, Nandani, Patalaganda, Pashumahanakarika, Phanihantri, Raktapatrika, Sarpagandha, Sarpakshi, Sarpangi, Sarvagandha, Sugandha, Surasa, Surpadini, Suvaha, Vasara, Vasupushpa, Vishamardani, Vishamardanika,Vishanashini

Bengali: Chaandar, Chhoto Chadar, Chhoto Chand, Chandra, Sarpagandha

English: Rauvolfia Root, Serpentine or Serpentina Root

Gujrati: Amelpodee

Hindi: Chhotaa Chaand, Dhavalbaruaa, Nai, Nakulikanda

Kannada: Sutranaabhu, Sutranbhi

Malayalam: Amalpori

Marathi: Adkai, Chandra

Oriya: Dhanbarua, Sanochado

Tamil: Sarppaganti, Chivan amelpodi

Telugu: Sarpagandhi, Patalagandhi

Marma: Abomaraja, Bumraja, Bhomaraja, Bomangraja, Bong Mayaja Gach, Bong Maraja, Mahaga, Maiba Gach, Tuchro

Mandi: Do-grek-mi

Khumi: Mahaga

Tripura: Khungchak, Mahagay

Chakma: Bomara, Chota Chand, Chandra, Sarpagandha, Sursan, Surchan, Surshan

Garo: Badap, Durakmi

Urdu: Asrel

Nepal: Sarpagandha, Chandmaruwa, Dhaulebir

Chepang: Chyarangro

Trade name: Rauwolfia, Sarpagandha

Constituents of Rauvolfia serpentina

Rauvolfia serpentina Roots contain more than 50 indole alkaloids including the therapeutically important reserpine, deserpidine, rescinnamine and yohimbine. Others include ajmaline, ajmalinine, ajmalicine, serpentine, serpentinine, iso-ajmaline, reserpidine, raubasine, rauwolfinine and alstonine. Besides the alkaloids they contain rutin, oleoresin and a sterol, serpasterol, oleic acid and unsaturated alcohols. Stem bark and leaves contain small amounts of some of the above alkaloids and also rutin.

The alkaloids are classified into 3 groups

1. Reserpine (hypotensive, sedative and tranquillizing agent): Reserpine, rescinnamine, deserpine etc.

2. Ajmaline (stimulate central nervous system, respiration and intestinal movement with slight hypotensive action): Ajmaline, ajmalicine, ajmalinine, iso-ajmaline etc.

3. Serpentine (antihypertensive): Serpentine, sepentinine, alstonine etc.

Reserpine, Ajmalicine and rescinnamine are hypotensive and tranquilizer. Alkaloid Ajmaline is named after Hakin Ajmal Khan. Deserpidine is sedative, as well as hypotensive. Ajmaline exhibits antiarrhythmic activity. Reserpine has powerful sedative and depressant action.

The alkaloids of Sarpagandha roots

1. Acts on Vasomotor center and causes generalized vasodilation.

2. Depresses cerebral center and sooths nervous system.

3. Relax the blood vessels.

Other substances present include phytosterols, fatty acids, unsaturated alcohols and sugars.

Main action on Body

1. Blood pressure lowering
2. Depressive
3. Sedative
4. Tranquilizing

Ayurvedic Properties and Action of Sarpagandha

In Ayurveda, Sarpagandha consists of dried root of Rauwolfia serpentina (Linn.) Benth. ex Kurz. Sarpagandha means ‘smell of the snake’ and it is renowned as an antidote for poisonous snake bites. It is bitter and pungent in taste (Rasa), pungent after digestion (Vipaka), and is hot in effect (Virya).

Sarpagandha is pungent in both the initial and post-digestive tastes (Rasa and Vipaka) and gives relief in Vata and Kapha and increases pitta. It has property of digestion, vomiting and purging, and gives feeling of lightness. It is considered bad for sperms and fetus.

Rasa (taste on tongue): Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter), Amla (Sour)

Guna (Pharmacological Action): Laghu (Light), Ruksha (Dry),

Virya (Action): Ushna (Heating)

Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Katu (Pungent)

Srotas: Mental, nervous, circulatory and reproductive

It is a Katu Vipak herb. Vipak refers to post-digestive (effect after digestion / cooking of Rasa) effect of tastes after its mixing with digestive juices. It is the long term effect of herb. Katu Viapk herbs / foods, pungent after digestion. It increases dryness in body. Such foods reduce fertility and Kapha. Katu vipaak has catabolic effect on body.

Karma / Action

• Deepana: Promote appetite but do not aid in digesting undigested food
• Pachan: Assist in digesting undigested food, but do not increase the appetite
• Ruchikarak: Improve taste
• Kapha-Vata har: Remover of the Humor of Kapha-Vata
• Vishaghna: Poison-destroying
• Nidraprad: Sleep inducing
• Kamavasadaka: Depresses (avsadak) Kama (desire)
• Hridyavasadaka: Depresses (avsadak) Hridya (heart)

Sarpagandha is used in Ayurveda for Shula / pain, Anidra/insomnia, Apasmara/epilepsy, Bhut Badha /influence of evil spirits, psychotic disorder, Bhrama / hallucination, Jwar / fever, Krimiroga/intestinal parasites, Unmad/insanity, Yoni shula/ pain in vagina, Raktvikar/diseases of blood, Manas Roga/mental disorder, and Vrana.

Important Medicines

1. Sarpagandha Choornam
2. Sarpagandha Ghan Vati
3. Sarpagandha Vati
4. Serpasil Tablet
5. Serpina Himalaya
6. Reserpine Tablet

Reserpine Tablet (0.1 mg, 0.25 mg and 0.5mg)

Reserpine Tablet contains the insoluble alkaloid Reserpine, extracted from the roots of the plant Rauwolfia serpentina. It is antihypertensive, sedative and tranquillizer and contain the labeled amount of reserpine (C₃₃H₄₀N₂O₉) viz. 0.1 mg, 0.25 mg or 0.5mg.

Molecule formula: C₃₃H₄₀N₂O₉

Chemical name: (3β,16β,17α,18β,20α)-11,17-Dimethoxy-18-[(3,4,5-trimethoxybenzoyl)oxy]yohimban-16- carboxylic acid methyl ester.

Biological description of Reserpine: Irreversible vesicular monoamine transporter (VMAT2) antagonist. Long-lasting bioamine depleter. Prevents bioamine transport into synaptic vesicles and chromaffin granules. Depletes biogenic amine stores. Antihypertensive and antipsychotic.

It is taken orally with a glass of water in recommended doses.

This medicine should not be taken with Levodopa, Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate and Procarbazine.

It may interact with blood pressure medicines, Digoxin, breathing problem medicines, cold-congestion medicine and medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances.

Reserpine may cause Bad dreams, Diarrhea, Dry mouth, Headache, Loss of appetite, Nausea, vomiting, and Stuffy nose.

There can be some serious side-effects. In case of skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue , breathing problems, vision change, depression, lightheadedness, hearing problems, painful urinations, trouble sleeping and any other serious health issue contact doctor immediately.

Important Medicinal Properties of Sarpagandha

Rauvolfia serpentina is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it. For example, it is Teratogenic and disturb the development of an embryo or fetus. It is Uterocontractant and starts contraction of uterus. Due to all these factor it must not be used in pregnancy.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

• Antiandrogenic: Blocks the action of androgens (male sex hormones)
• Antiarrhythmic: Treat abnormal heart rhythms resulting from irregular electrical activity of the heart.
• Antifertility: Reduces fertility.
• Antipsychotic: Manage psychosis.
• Cardiodepressant: Decreases heart rate and contractility.
• CNS Depressant: Depresses, or slows, the sympathetic impulses of the central nervous system (respiratory rate, heart rate).
• Expectorant: Promotes the ejection of mucus
• Hypnotic: Sleep-inducing.
• Hypotensive: Lowers blood pressure
• Hypothyroid: Lowers thyroid.
• Narcotic: Affecting mood or behavior.
• Sedative: Causes depression of the central nervous system, which reduces mental activity.
• Teratogenic: Causing congenital anomalies or birth defects.
• Tranquilizer: Promotes tranquility.

Advantages / Benefits of Sarpagandha

1. This is the main herb for high blood pressure.
2. It dilates the blood vessels and reduces blood pressure.
3. It reduces Vata and gives relief in insomnia and agitation.
4. It is sedating and tranquillizing.
5. It is Brain tonic and given in combination with other brain nourishing herbs.
6. It gives relief in pain and colic.
7. It is an exceptionally powerful.

Disadvantages of Sarpagandha

1. It is hot in potency and has warming effect on body.
2. It can cause deformities in developing baby, if taken during pregnancy.
3. It can cause serious depression, tiredness and nasal congestion.
4. It may induce peptic ulceration.
5. It may aggravate allergic disorders.
6. Wrong dose can cause hypotension and lead to giddiness and sleepiness.
7. It can cause fluid retention.
8. It may increase salivation, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
9. Overdose may cause diarrhea, bradycardia and drowsiness.
10. Prolonged use can cause sterility.

Who should take Sarpagandha?

This herb is not for everyone. It can be given to people who are strong but highly irritable.

It is not meant for weak, lean, and depressive patient.

Medicinal Uses of Rauvolfia serpentina (Sarpagandha)

Sarpagandha has affinity for heart. It has vasodilatory properties and causes dropping of blood pressure. Its main indication is mild to moderate hypertension.

Sarpgandha formulations and reserpine are used in the management of essential hypertension and in certain neuropsychiatric disorders. For Hypertension, Heart diseases, Insomnia, Epilepsy, the root powder is taken in dose of half gram, twice a day.

1. Antihypertensive medicine

2. Antipsychotic medicine

Another important therapeutic use of the roots of Sarpagandha is in psychotic disorders such as delusions, hallucinations, schizophrenia, paranoia or disordered thought. Sarpagandha is sedative, narcotic and tranquilizing. The sedative and tranquillizing properties of the drug are thought to be related to depletion of catecholamine and serotonin from the brain.

It is used to get relief from various central nervous system disorders, anxiety states, excitement, maniacal behavior associated with psychosis, schizophrenia, insanity, insomnia, fits and epilepsy.

Combination of Rauvolfia serpentina, Nardostachys jatamansi and Tinospora cordifolia helps to induce better sleep in insomnia patients.

1. For all mental problems, one part Sarpgandha, three parts of Brahmi and two parts of Shankhpushpi are mixed to form a power. This powder is taken in dose of 1-3 grams, thrice a day. Or equal amount of Sarpgandha, Brahmi and Sankhpushpi are mixed and taken in dose of 250 mg thrice day.
2. For migraine, it is given in dose of 50mg to 100mg.
3. For fits, the root paste is taken in dose of 5 grams twice a day with water for one month.
4. The decoction of the roots is given to increase uterine contraction for expulsion of fetus in difficult cases.
5. It helps to get rid of intestinal parasite.
6. The juice of the leaves is used on the eyes to remove opacities of the cornea and consumptions of fresh small pieces lower the blood pressures.
7. It is used as a snake-bite remedy. Root Decoction and leaves is given to cure snakebite.
8. For snakebite, insectstings the root paste is applied at the affected area.
9. The root paste is applied topically to treat eczema (atopic dermatitis). Decoctions of the leaves is applied externally on scabies, ulcers and injuries.
10. For Stomach disorder, Root Juice, extracted by rubbing on stone, is taken twice a day for 3 days. Or the Leaf and flower Juice, extracted by smashing, is taken orally after boiling.
11. In Constipation, Root Juice, is taken directly three times a day for 2 weeks or the leaf juice is taken.
12. For arthritis, the roots of Sarpgandha and Chitrak/Plumbago are boiled in mustard oil. This oil is used for massaging the aching parts.

Dosage of Rauvolfia serpentina

• The Average dose is 500-600 mg corresponding to 6 mg total alkaloid once a day for 1-2 weeks. Then for maintenance 100 to 250 mg once a day is given.
• The tincture is taken in dose of 2–12 drops.
• The powdered root is given in dose of 20-30 grains.
• The root is given with a diuretic to prevent fluid retention which may develop if Rauvolfia root is given alone.

Remember, this herb directly affects heart. It has depressive action on the body organs. Therefore the dose must be properly controlled. High dose has negative effects. Wrong dose, can cause hypotension and lead to giddiness and sleepiness.

Contraindications, Interactions, Side-effects and Warnings Rauvolfia serpentina

1. It has teratogenic (disturb the development of an embryo or fetus) and abortifacient action and must not be used in pregnancy.
2. It is contraindicated in patients with a history of mental depression, bleeding disorders, gastric and Duodenal ulcers, pregnancy, breast-feeding, asthma, ulcers and kidney pain, decreased renal function, and in patients receiving Electroconvulsive therapy (ECTs). ECT formerly known as electroshock therapy, and often referred to as shock treatment, is a psychiatric treatment in which seizures are electrically induced in patients to provide relief from psychiatric illnesses.
3. Side effects, include depression, dizziness, drowsiness, dyspnea, erectile dysfunction, lethargy, rash, and reactive changes (dangerous while driving), reduced sexual potency, and stuffy nose.
4. Drug interactions occurs with appetite suppressants, barbiturates, digitalis glycosides, levodopa, neuroleptics, and sympathomimetics.
5. When taken with cough / flu medicines or with appetite lowering medicine it causes significant initial increase of blood pressure.
6. Do not use with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, beta-blockers, levodopa, tricyclic and antidepressants.
7. It should not be used with alcohol as it severely increases the impairment of motor reactions.
8. Excessive dose causes drowsiness, weak-slow pulse, slow breathing, diarrhea, lower body temperature and contraction of pupils.
9. It is banned for use in the UK unless prescribed by a doctor.
10. Only to be used under the guidance of doctor as it can cause severe reactions.

Heal-O-Kind is a gel manufactured by Mankind pharma containing Nanocrystalline silver. This is a multipurpose gel and is applied topically on wounds. It has antiseptic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory properties.

Nano crystalline silver utilizes nanotechnology to release clusters of extremely small and highly reactive silver cations. Free silver cations have a potent antimicrobial effect and destroys micro-organisms immediately by blocking the cellular respiration and disrupting the function of bacterial cell membranes by binding to tissue proteins, and thus causing the structural changes in the bacterial cell membranes which in turn cause cell death. Silver cations also bind and denature the bacterial DNA and RNA, thus inhibiting cell replication.

Here is given more about this medicine, such as benefits, indication/therapeutic uses, composition and how to use.

• Brand: Mankind
• Used for: External use on skin injuries
• Contains: Nanocrystalline silver 0.002 %W/W
• Availability: 2 pack sizes - 10g and 25g
• Price: 10gram gel for ₹50.00

Ingredients of Heal-O-Kind

Nanocrystalline silver 0.002 %W/W

Uses of Heal-O-Kind

Heal-O-Kind, is a unique Nanofine technology that heals all types of injuries, wounds, nicks, bruises and burns. It has a strong anti-bacterial action that absorbs into the skin for faster and scar-less healing.

1. Burns
2. Bruise
3. Diabetic foot ulcers
4. Injury
5. Scrapped skin, irritation on cuts
6. Shoe bite
7. Wound dressing
8. Wounds, inflammation and redness due to wounds

How to use Heal-O-Kind

Apply the ointment externally on affected body area.

This is for external use only.

Fagopyrum esculentum, is known as Buckwheat in English. It derived its name, perhaps from German word, bukweten meaning goat's wheat, as it is inferior to true Wheat or from Dutch word bockweit, meaning beech-wheat, due to its beechnut shape and wheat-like characteristics.

Buckwheat is an annual herb native to central and northern Asia and later introduced to Europe in middle ages. It is found in wild and now cultivated all over the world for its seeds. The plant has short growing period of three months. The seeds are mainly of commercial use.

Seed or fruit of the plant are three sided and smooth. They are rich in starch and fiber. Seeds are not true cereals (pseudocereal seeds) but can be used in same manner. Buckwheat groats (hulled / husked buckwheat seeds) are used to make porridge by boiling with water. Seeds are used all over world in different ways. In Japan, it is consumed as noddle, Soba. In China it is used to make vinegar. In Russia the groats and flour are used to make porridge and soup. In Europe and North America buckwheat flour is generally mixed with wheat flour to prepare pancakes, biscuits and noodles.

Buckwheat is excellent source of Rutin. It is the only known pseudo cereal to contain rutin in its seeds. From 100 grams of buckwheat seeds approximately 0.48mg to 4.97mg Rutin is obtained. Rutin is bioflavonoid and vitamin. It is used in prevention and treatment of variety of diseases including piles, hemorrhage, heart diseases, varicose veins, bruises on skin, allergy etc. Rutin is antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, β-amyloid oligomer-reducing, antimicrobial, antifungal, neuroprotective and anti-allergic. It is available in market as dietary supplement in form of tablets (Rutin 500 mg tablets).

Buckwheat seeds are ground to make a flour known as Buckwheat flour which can be used as ordinary flour to make noodles, bread, pancakes, biscuits, and cakes. In India, it is commonly known as Kuttu Ka Atta and used to make various dishes eaten during fasts such as Navratri when intake of cereals, is prohibited. The flour is used to make Poori, Pakora, and other items. In Hilly regions, the leaves are cooked as Sag.

Buckwheat can be used as healthy, nutritive alternative to other cereals. It is gluten free. Though it is not as nutritive as wheat. It contains eight essential amino acids, including lysine. The protein of buckwheat is of excellentquality. It is good source of manganese, copper, Magnesium, phosphorus and dietary fiber.

In Ayurveda, Buckwheat is known as Kutu. It considered hot in potency. It increases Pitta/bile and Vata/wind but reduces Kapha/phlegm. Its intake should be restricted in person suffering from disorders due to Vata and Pitta aggravation. Buckwheat should be included in Kapha Pacifying Diet.

General Information

Buckwheat is not a variety of wheat. It is not related to wheat but to Rhubarb, Sorrel, Dock and other plants of polygonaceae. It is a fruit seed and not a cereal. It grows on an herbaceous plant and the seeds are used as a food.

Buckwheat plant is a hardy plant. It can grow to a height of one to three feet. It has short taproot and fine lateral roots. The plant is erect with single main stem. Stem is hollow, sub-cylindrical, delicate, juicy, grooved, succulent and smooth except at the nodes. As stems are hollow and therefore are subject to breakage by high winds and hails. Stems and branches are green to red initally and turn reddish brown at maturity.

Leaves of plant are halberd shaped. They are petiolate, blades are ovate-triangular to triangular, 2-8 cm long, with acuminate tips, bases are cordate or approximately hastate. Upper leaves are smaller and sessile.

Inflorescences are terminal and auxiliary, branch in dense corymbose or paniculate cyme. Flowers are perfect but incomplete as they do not have petals. The calyx is composed of five petal-like sepals that are usually white, pink or dark pink.

Buckwheat is dimorphic, having plants bearing one of two flower types. The pin flowers have long pistils and short stamens while the thrum flowers have short pistils and long stamens.

Fruit or seed is a triangular nut, approximately 0.5 cm long with keeled edges. The colour can vary from silvery-grey to brown or black.

The main producer countries of common buckwheat are The Russian Federation, China, Ukraine and Kazakhstan. In India, it is mainly cultivated in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, North east and few areas in Tamil Nadu.

Buckwheat is a quick growing crop. It grows on the worst and poorest soils. It prefers a moist cool climate and a well-drained sand soil. It is a plant of temperate region. In Northern India, Buckwheat is usually a rainy season crop. It is sown in July and harvested in October. In Nilgiris, it is generally sown in April and harvested in August.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Kuttu / Buckwheat is Fagopyrum esculentum. It belongs to plant family Polygonaceae.

Polygonaceae is a family of herbs, shrubs and small trees. There are about 50 genera and 1120 species in this family mainly found in temperate regions. Polygonum bistorta (Adderwort, Patient Dock, Snakeweed), Rheum palmatum (Rhubarb, Turkey), Rumex aquaticus (Water Dock), Polygonum barbatum (Ola), Polygonum chinense, Polygonum pulchrum (Swastika, Sunnysanna) are few other important medicinal plant belonging to this family.

Polygonaceae is generally referred to as the buckwheat, rhubarb or sorrel family. In the buckwheat family, the content of oxalic acid in leaves is almost twice as great as the content in the stalk.

Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
• Subclass: Caryophyllidae
• Order: Polygonales
• Family: Polygonaceae – Buckwheat family
• Genus: Fagopyrum Mill. – buckwheat
• Species: Fagopyrum esculentum Moench – buckwheat

Synonyms

• Fagopyrum saggittatum Gilib
• Fagopyrum vulgare Hill
• Fagopyrum fagopyrum (L.) Karst., nom. inval.
• Polygonum fagopyrum L.

Part(s) used: Seeds

Group: Dicot

Plant type: Herb

Origin: Native to central and northern Asia

Distribution: In India, it is grown in hilly regions of North India and the Nilgiris. It is distributed throughout the world in China, Europe, United States, Canada, and France, Russia and Poland.

Habitat: Temperate regions (temperatures in Temperate region are generally relatively moderate, rather than extremely hot or cold, and the changes between summer and winter are also usually moderate)

Main producers: China, Russian Federation, Ukraine and Kazakhstan

Flowering and fruiting: July to September-October

Vernacular names / Synonyms

1. Scientific name: Fagopyrum esculentum
2. Ayurvedic: Kotu
3. Folk: Kutu, Phapar
4. India: Doron, Kadda Godhi, Kaiyuk, Akli Indrayan, Kathu, Kotu, Kuttu, Ogal (Kumaon), Oggal, Ogla, Olgo, Phapar, Suel, Tyat
5. Hindi: Kaspat
6. Maharashtra: Kutu
7. English: Buckwheat, Common Buckwheat
8. China: Qiao mai, Chiao mai, Wu Mai, Hua Chiao
9. Japan: Soba, Buckwheat noddles
10. Tibetan: Rgya bra
11. Russia: Grechevnaya, groats, Krupa

Nutritional Value

Composition of buckwheat (per 100 g) compared with other food grains (Source: USDA Composition of Food Agricultural Handbook No. 8.)

Average mineral and vitamin contents of Buckwheat

Health Benefits of Buckwheat Flour or Kuttu Ka Atta

Buckwheat is a pseudocereal. It is not a cereal grain but can be used to make bread, poori, porridge and cakes. Buckwheat is fruit seed. The nutritional value of buckwheat is comparable to wheat. It contains protein, carbohydrates, fat, fiber and minerals. Starch is the major component.

Dark buckwheat flour contains more hull and so it has more protein content compared to light buckwheat flour. Buckwheat flour should be stored in refrigerator and should be used within 2-3 months.

1. It can be used as alternative to wheat.
2. It is glutenfree, the sticky protein found in wheat and other grains. It can be safely eaten by people with celiac disease.
3. It contains very high quality protein containing all 8 essential amino acids.
4. It contains thiamin B1 and riboflavin B2, the water soluble B complex vitamins.
5. It is good source of manganese, copper, magnesium and phosphorus.
6. It lowers the risk of developing diabetes.
7. It helps in the management of diabetes.
8. It is rich in insoluble fiber.
9. It is low in glycemic index (the relative ability of a carbohydrate food to increase the level of glucose in the blood). Low glycemic index or GI implies, there is slower rise in blood sugar level on consumption of particular food. Diabetes are recommended to take lo GI foods.
10. It maintains blood flow.
11. It lowers the risk of developing cholesterol and high blood pressure.
12. It reduces low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL).
13. It is rich in flavonoids, particularly Rutin. Bioflavonoids Rutin a potent antioxidants, is a useful element to improve the elasticity of the veins and helps in varicose veins.
14. It is excellent for heart health.

It rich source of magnesium, an essential mineral required as a cofactor for many enzyme systems. Magnesium performs a number of criticalfunctions in the body, such as energy production by activating ATP, for working of enzymes that break down glucose (blood sugar), production of cholesterol, breaking of fat, supporting bone health, helping muscles contract and relax, assisting in nerve function, and keeping heart rhythm steady and strong. Magnesium plays a multifunctional role in cell metabolism. Deficiency of Magnesium leads to cardiovascular, skeletal, gastrointestinal and central nervous system disorders. Intake of 100 grams of cooked buckwheat provides approximately 21% of daily required magnesium.

It is warming and aid digestion.

Other Uses of Buckwheat Plant

Buckwheat flowers attracts Honey bee and the honey produced using nectar of its flower is dark in colour and strongly flavored.

Buckwheat leaves locally known as Phafru in hilly regions of Himalaya. They are cooked as Sag. First the leaves are washed, chopped and boiled by adding salt. After boiling it grind to make paste. mustard oil is heated in a pan. Tadaka of coriander seeds and red chilies are added to the heated oil and then paste of buckwheat leaves is added. This is cooked for few minutes and then served with Roti.

1. The leaves were used for high blood pressure, chilblains, and frostbite.
2. For anemia, constipation the Leaves are cooked in iron vessel and given.
3. Juice of plant is used in urinary disorders.
4. In headaches, leaves paste is applied.
5. For gastrointestinal disorders, infusion or decoction of leaves is given.
6. The dried leaves are given for constipation.
7. The leaves are fried in ghee and taken in fever.
8. The roots decoction of plant is used for rheumatism, lung diseases and typhoid.
9. For Urinary disorders roots juice is given.
10. The flowers and green leaves are used for rutin extraction for use in medicine.

Homeopathic remedy, FAGOPYRUM is made using whole plant. The aerial parts are picked after flowering and before the fruits ripen, then chopped and macerated in alcohol. It is generaly used for eczema and itching skin, possibly on the genitals, scalp, eyelids, and ears, or in the folds of the skin of infants and the elderly, Heart complaints associated with visibly pulsing arteries, either with or without concurrent skin conditions.

Buckwheat hulls are used for pillow filling.

Contraindications, Interactions, and Side Effects (Buckwheat)

1. It is very heating and drying. Hence should be used with caution in people with Pitta and Vata Dosha.
2. It increases Vata and Pitta.
3. It is hot in potency.
4. It may increase heat in body.
5. It may produce harmful effects under certain conditions due to which this plant is considered poisonous.
6. Buckwheat grains and leaves produce primary photosensitization in pigs, horses, cattle, goats, sheep and other animals, but not in human.
7. Human can sensitized to dust from Buckwheat flour only after long exposure. asthma like condition occur.
8. Photosensitization is an increase in susceptibility to ultraviolet light. There is abnormally heightened reactivity of the skin or eyes to sunlight. Sensitization of the skin to light, usually due to the action of plant may occur shortly after administration of the drug (phototoxic sensitivity), or may occur only after a latent period of from days to months (photo allergic sensitivity, or photo allergy).

Exposure to sun is necessary for toxic reaction.

The phototoxic reactions occur when a drug absorbs ultraviolet radiation from the sun and a sunburn like response occurs in a short period of time. Within hours there is a burning sensation of the exposed skin, followed by redness and swelling. Within a day or two the skin becomes heavily pigmented and begins to peel, a severe reaction can cause scarring.

Rutin (3, 3′, 4′, 5, 7-pentahydroxyflavone-3-rhamnoglucoside) is bright yellow or greenish-yellow substance with Molecular Formula C₂₇H₃₀O₁₆. Rutin is also called vitaminP (bioactive flavonoid are referred as vitamin P).

The name ‘Rutin’ came from a plant known as Ruta graveolens that also contains rutin. It is a flavonol glycoside comprised of quercetin and rutinose found in many plants, including BUCKWHEAT seeds. Buckwheat seeds are the richest source of rutin.

Rutin has a wide range of pharmacological properties. It has antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, β-amyloid oligomer-reducing, antimicrobial, antifungal, neuroprotective and anti-allergic activities. It has been used therapeutically to decrease capillary fragility. It shows beneficial effects in various chronic diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, neurodegenerative diseases and Alzheimer's disease. Scientist are still not able to give detail of mechanism, by which Rutin work in body.

Rutin Source

Rutin is obtained from various plants. Buckwheat is excellent source of Rutin, Other plants which contain Rutin are Tobacco, Forsythia, Sophora Japonica, Tomato, Flavedo, Hydrangea, Viola, Asparagus, Red Pepper, Apples, Cherries, Aronia Berries and Citrus Fruits. Rutin is also present in inflorescence and leaves of many herbs such as rue, rosemary, Dandelion or sage, and black and green tea.

Rutin extracts are available in the market as dietary supplement. There are approximately 130 registered therapeutic medicinal preparations are containing rutin.

Rutin (Quercetin-3-Rutinoside) General Information

• Synonym: Rutoside, Quercetin-3-O-Rutinoside Or Sophorin
• Rutin content derived from buckwheat seeds: 0.48mg/100g to 4.97mg/100g
• Chemistry: Glycoside between the flavonol quercetin and the disaccharide rutinose (α-LRhamnopyranosyl-(1→6)-β-D-glucopyranose)
• Molecular Formula: C₂₇H₃₀O₁₆
• Molecular weight: 610.5175 g/mol
• Melting point: 195 °C
• Boiling point: 983.1 °C at 760 mmHg

Medicinal Properties of Rutin

Rutin is bioflavonoid and vitamin. It is used in prevention and treatment of variety of diseases including piles, hemorrhage, heart diseases, varicose veins, bruises on skin, allergy etc. Below is given important medicinal properties of Rutin.

• Anti-oxidant: decrease oxidative stress and thus preserve the structural and functional integrity of cells.
• Antibacterial: Active against bacteria
• Antidiabetic: Stabilize and control blood glucose levels.
• Anti-inflammatory: Reducing inflammation by acting on body mechanisms.
• Anti-tumor: Preventing or inhibiting the formation or growth of tumors
• Antifungal: Limits or prevents the growth of yeasts and other fungal organisms
• Anti-allergic: Inhibit the production and release of histamine from immune cells known as mast cells and basophiles and calm the inflammatory response.
• Anticoagulant: inhibiting the coagulation (fluid to thickened mass) of the blood.
• Antiulcer: Tending to prevent or heal ulcers.
• Antithrombotic: Reduces the formation of blood clots (thrombi).
• β-amyloid oligomer-reducing: Inhibits g pathologic agents in Alzheimer’s disease.
• Neuroprotective: Protecting nervous system, its cells, structure and function.

Dosage of Rutin 500 mg Tablets

Rutin 500 mg Tablets dietary supplement, is taken in dose of 1 capsule, once or twice daily with water after meal.

Indication / Therapeutic Uses of Rutin 500 mg Tablets

Rutin is a strong antioxidant and prevents cells from free radical damage. It is excellent for circulatorysystem and promotes healthy circulation. Rutin 500 mg Tablets supports vascular strength. Rutin is found to inhibit thrombusformation. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has established that Rutin is safe and, thus provides a safe and inexpensive drug that could reduce recurrent clots.

1. Rutin helps in many conditions. Some of them are given below:
2. Asthma
3. Bruises, spider veins, and varicose veins
4. Cancer
5. Chronic ulcerative colitis
6. Cardiovascular problems
7. Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (reduction in cerebral blood flow), memory loss
8. Diabetes, diabetes related problems
9. Prevention and treatment of heart attacks and stroke
10. Prevention and treatment of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism
11. Prevention of oxidative damage, as antioxidant
12. Piles, hemorrhoids (swollen veins in the anus and rectum), after hemorrhoidectomy
13. Prevention and treatment of eye diseases such as macular degeneration, cataracts, and glaucoma
14. Inflammation Inhibit thrombosis / blood clot (formation of solid massor thrombus in circulation from the constituents of flowing blood), inhibits both platelet accumulation and fibrin generation during thrombus formation
15. Urticaria

Rutin Contraindications, Interactions, Side-effects

1. Multiple human clinical trials with rutin have shown that it is well tolerated and safe.
2. Rutin exerts anti-thrombotic activity and may reduce effect of anti-coagulant medicines.
3. Rutin supplements can cause miscarriage so should not be used during pregnancy. It may have teratogenic (halt the pregnancy or produce a congenital malformation / birth defect) effect.
4. Its use should be avoided during breast feeding period.
5. Allergic reactions are rare. But skin rashes, facial swelling and breathing problems can occur sometimes. Other indicated possible side effects include headache, dizziness, diarrhea, fatigue, upset stomach, or hair loss and allergic reactions.

Atibala, Kanghi, Kakhi, Kakhiya, Petari, Country Mallow, Flowering Maples, Chinese Bell-flowers, Indian mallow, Kanghi, Kakahi,Kakahiya are few common names of plant Abutilon indicum. It is a medicinal plant with showy golden-yellow flowers and used in Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani system of medicine for preparation of many medicines. Traditionally, all parts of plant are used for medicinal purpose.

Atibala is used for medicinal purpose since ancient times. For medicinal purpose, all parts of plant (leaves, roots, seeds) are used. Atibala is aphrodisiac and nervinetonic. It is diuretic, anti-inflammatory and anti-hemorrhagic. Atibala is used in inflammation, piles, gonorrhea, impotence, low libido, infertility, sperm loss, debility and as an immune stimulant.

Acharya Charak gave extract of whole plant for fever, weakness and joint problems. It was used as Rasayan to promote health and keep diseases at bay. It treats wounds, ulcers and vaginal infections.

Root and bark are used as aphrodisiac, anti-diabetic, nervine tonic, and diuretic. They have diuretic and anthelmintic properties. The roots reduces fever, nerves weakness and helps in urinary problems. They are given for neurological disorders (hemiplegia, facial paralysis, sciatica) and debility.

Leaves are astringent and stop Bleeding and are helpful in bleeding piles, diarrhea etc.

Seeds are very nutritive and strengthening. They are aphrodisiac, emollient and demulcent. They contain about 30 % protein of good quality. They are used for treating impotency, loss of semen (spermatorrhoea) and low libido. The seeds are also used in urinary disorders, as a laxative in piles and in the treatment of cough.

General Information

Plant Description: Abutilon indicum, is a perennial plant with very finely downy branches. It is hairy herb or under-shrub reaching upto a height of 1.0-1.5 m.

The leaves of plant are simple, alternate, stipulated, 1.9—5 cm long, broadly ovate, very cordate at base, acute, irregularly and coarsely dentate. Petioles are very long, 2.5—7.5 cm.

Flowers are regular, bisexual, orange yellow, solitary and axillary and of 2.5 cm diameter. Sepals are 5, fused into a 5-lobed, cup-shaped calyx. Lobes are shallow, apiculate. Petals 5, convolute, adnate to stamen-tube; stamens numerous, fused into a tube.

Ovary is superior, 10-carpellary. style pass through the stamen-tube and dividing into 5 branches each terminating in a capitate stigma. Seeds minutely dotted.

Tap roots are fairly long with a number of lateral branches, 1.5-2 cm in diameter, light brown, outer surface smooth with dot like lenticels, bark thin and can be easily peeled off, odour, feeble, taste, astringent and bitter.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Atibala / Indian mallow is Abutilon indicum. It belongs to plant family Malvaceae.

Malvaceae includes herbs, shrubs, or less often trees. It consists of about 82 genera, 9 subfamilies and more than 1,500 species, distributed more abundantly in warm and temperate regions. There are about 22 genera and 125 species of this family in India.

Plants of the family bears flowers which are often showy and beautiful. They mostly have five petals and sepals and a filament.

Most of the plants belonging to this family contain free mucilage, and, generally speaking, have emollient, laxative, anti-bilious, and antiscorbutic properties. Some members yield volatile oils which are stimulant, diaphoretic, and diuretic. The seeds are often oleaginous. Very few species have toxic properties.

Some of the economically important plants belonging to Malvaceae are, The cotton plant (Gossypiurn sp.), Corchorus (Jute), Hibiscus, Okra (A. esculentus), Bombax (Silk cotton tree), Marshmallow (Althaea ojficinalis Linn.) and Sida.

Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta (Vascular plants)
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta (Seed plants)
• Division: Magnoliophyta (Flowering plants)
• Class: Magnoliopsida (Dicotyledons)
• Subclass: Dilleniidae
• Order: Malvales
• Family: Malvaceae – Mallow family
• Genus: Abutilon Mill. – Indian mallow
• Species: Abutilon indicum (L.)

Synonyms

• Abutilon asiaticum W.&A.
• Sida indica Linn.
• Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Fruit, leaves, seed and roots
• Plant type / Growth Habit: Shrub Subshrub
• Duration: Perennial
• Distribution: Hotter parts of India, in the sub-Himalayan tract and other hills up to 1200 m.
• Habitat: Warm, temperate regions, as a common weed on road sides and other waste places in plains and hills.
• Group: Dicot
• Unani: Mizaj (Temperament): Hot2 Moist1

Vernacular names / Synonyms

1. Scientific name: Abutilon indicum (L.) Sweet ssp. Indicum
2. Sanskrit: Atibala, Balika, Balya, Bhuribala, Ghanta, Rishiprokta, Shita, Shitapushpa, Vikantaka, Vatyapushpika, Vrishyagandha, Vrishyagandhika
3. Siddha: Thuthi
4. Unani: Kanghi, Kangahi, Kakahiya, Kakahi, Beejband surkh, siyah
5. Hindi: Kanghi
6. Assamese: Jayavandha, Jayapateri
7. Bengali: Badela
8. Kannada: Shrimudrigida, Mudragida, Turube
9. Kashmiri: Kath
10. Malayalam: Uram, Katuvan, Urubam, Urabam, Vankuruntott, Oorpam, Tutti
11. Marathi: Chakrabhendi, Petari, Mudra
12. Maharashtra: Peeli booti, karandi
13. Oriya: Pedipidika
14. Punjabi: Kangi, Kangibooti
15. Rajasthan: Tara-Kanchi, Kanghi, Debi, Jhili, Itwari
16. Tamil: Nallatutti, Paniyarattutti, Perundutti, Tutti, Vaddattutti
17. Folk: Kanghi, Kakahi, Kakahiyaa
18. Arabic: Musht-ul-ghoul
19. Sinhalese: Anoda
20. English: Country Mallow, Flowering Maples, Chinese Bell-flowers, Indian mallow

Constituents of Abutilon indicum

The leaves contain mucilage, tannin, amino acids, glucose, fructose, galactose, gallic acid sesquiterpene alkaloids, flavonoids, sterols, triterpenoids, saponins, cardiac glycosides and asparagin (11.5 %). Asparagin has diuretic activities.

Mucilage present in the plant protectsthe mucous membrane, urinary system and helps in gastro-intestinal inflammations, lesions and ulcers. Mucilage is diuretic and demulcent (relieve irritation of the mucous membranes in the mouth by forming a protective film). It reduces acidity.

Tannin is astringent and stops bleeding on topical application and diarrhea on oral use.

Roots contain fatty acids (linoleic, oleic, stearic, palmitic, lauric, myristic, caprylic, capric etc.).

Flowers contain seven flavonoid compounds including quercetin and its glycosides.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action (Atibala)

In Ayurveda, term Atibala is used for roots of plant Abutilon indicum. Atibala is sweet in taste (Rasa), sweet after digestion (Vipaka), and is cool in effect (Virya).

Atibala is a Madhur Vipak herb. Madhur-Vipak digests into sweet. It has building, moistening and nourishing effect on body. It is heavy to digest and reduces metabolism. It is cooling and reducesswelling. It increases Kapha and decreases Pitta. Madhur Vipak has Anabolic effect on body.

• Rasa (taste on tongue): Madhura (Sweet)
• Guna (Pharmacological Action): Snigdha (Unctuous)
• Virya (Action): Shita (Cooling)
• Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Madhura (Sweet)
• Action / Karma
• Balya, Vrishya: Increases strength
• Vatahara: Pacify Vata/Wind.
• Grahi: Inspissants, stomachic, digestive and heating qualities dry the fluids of the bod
• Shukral: Improves sperms.
• Mutral: Diuretic.

Atibala is a Sheet Virya herb. Sheet Virya or Cool potency herb, subdues Pitta (Bile) Vata (Wind) and increases Kapha (Mucus). Sheet Virya herb gives nourishment to body and steadiness. It supports building of body fluids.

Atibala roots are used in Ayurveda for treatment of bleeding disorders (Raktapitta), gout (Vatahar) and urinary disorders (Meha).

Atibala is a nourishing, strength promoting with Rasayana and fetal growth promoting action. A study was done to find role of Atibala (abutilon indicum) in garbha sthapaka and garbha vruddhikara prabhava in pregnant women with history of repeated abortion by Department of Kaumarabritya Prasuti Stree Roga Institute of Post Graduate Teaching and Research Gujarat Ayurved University Jamnagar.

The study was designed to find out the effect of Atibala as a single drug for Garbhasthapaka prabhava and Garbha vruddhikara prabhava in pregnancy with repeated abortion history. Sixty pregnant women of second and third trimester were included and they were divided into two groups. The effect of Atibala was compared to that of combination of Amalaki, Godanthi and Garbhapalarasa (Amalaki group). Studying results of Atibala and Amalaki groups during the treatment or after no abortion took place.

The study concluded Ati Bala (Abutilon indicum) powder is highly effective for fetal development in compared with powder of Amalaki, Godanthi Bashma and Garbhapala rasa in pregnant women who have previous repeated abortions due to Garbhasthapaka (beneficial for maintenance of pregnancy)and Garbha Vriddhikara Prabhava (Promote fetal development).

Important Formulations

Atibala is generally as used an ingredient in preparation of Ayurvedic medicated oil used externally for massaging in Vatavyadhi (diseases due to Vata dosha) such as gout, rheumatism, facial palsy, paraplegia etc.

1. Bala Taila
2. Narayan Taila
3. Mahanarayan Taila

Important Medicinal Properties

Abutilon indicum is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

1. Antioxidant: Seeds, Neutralize the oxidant effect of free radicals and other substances.
2. Anti-inflammatory: Leaves, Reducing inflammation by acting on body mechanisms.
3. Antifungal: Leaves, inhibit fungal infections.
4. Analgesic: Roots, Relieve pain.
5. Anti-convulsant: Leaves, Prevent or reduce the severity of epileptic fits or other convulsions.
6. Anti-diarrheal: Leaves, gives relief in diarrhoea.
7. Antidiabetic: Leaves, controls diabetes level.
8. Anti-estrogenic: Estrogen antagonist.
9. Demulcent: Seeds-Leaves, Relieving inflammation or irritation.
10. Diuretic: Seeds-Root extract, Promoting excretion of urine/agent that increases the amount of urine excreted.
11. Hepatoprotective: Whole plant, Prevent damage to the liver.
12. Hypoglycemic: Leaves, Reducing level of the sugar glucose in the blood.
13. Immunomodulatory: Leaves, Modifies the immune response or the functioning of the immune system.
14. Laxative: Seed-Leaves, Tending to stimulate or facilitate evacuation of the bowels.
15. Lipid lowering: Leaves, lowers lipid.

Medicinal Uses of Abutilon indicum (Atibala)

Atibala is used both internally and externally. It possess potent anti-hemorrhagic, diuretic, demulcent and laxative properties. Its topical application stops bleeding from wounds and heals ulcers, wounds and infections. The seeds give strength and vigor.

1. Aphrodisiac, piles, cough: The seeds are used.
2. Bleeding piles: The leaves are cooked and eaten.
3. Dental problems: Leaf juice and root are taken orally.
4. Indigestion: Leaves made into a chutney and consumed.

Piles:

1. Root extract is taken orally twice a day for two weeks to cure piles.

2. Atibala Abutilon indicum leaves + Makoi (Solanum nigrum) leaves + kali mirch ( Piper nigrum seeds), are ground and paste is taken in dose of 5 grams for 2 weeks.

3. Leaves paste of Atibala is taken in dose of 5 grams for one month.

Rheumatism: Paste of leaves prepared with mustard oil applied externally.

Toothache and tender gums: As mouthwash decoction of leaves is used.

Ulcers: juice of the leaves prepared into an ointment is applied.

Urinary problems, strangury and hematuria: The roots of plant are used due to diuretic activities.

Vaginal infections, wounds and ulcers: Decoction of leaves is used.

Dosage of Abutilon indicum

1. Leaf powder is taken in dose of 5-7 grams.
2. Seed powder is taken in dose of 1-3 grams. Seed Extract is taken in dose of 125 mg-500 mg.
3. Root powder is taken in dose of 3-6 grams. Root extract is taken in dose of 250mg-750mg.

Maximum dose of root powder or seed powder is 12 grams.

Contraindications, Interactions, Side-effects and Warnings Abutilon indicum

1. It is cool in potency and may increase phlegm.
2. It reduces Pitta.

Arnica Plus Triofer (100 ml + 50 Tablets) is an Homeopathic medicine for hair problems. It is based on homeopathic principles. Arnica Plus Triofer contains medicated oil and tablets. The oil is for scalp massage and tablets are taken orally.

Here is given more about this medicine, such as benefits, indication/therapeutic uses, composition, dosage and how to use.

• Type of medicine: Proprietary Homeopathic Medicine
• Manufacturer: Allen
• Purpose: Hair Care
• Arnica Plus Triofer MRP / Price: ₹ 200
• Availability: Online and at medical stores
• Suitablefor: Unisex
• Packing: 100 ml + 50 Tablets

Ingredients of Arnica Plus Triofer

Arnica Plus Triofer contains oil and tablets. Below is given the list of ingredients.

Oil

Arnica mont- Q, Aloe soc-Q, Amloki- Q, Haritaki- Q, Nicotinum- Q, Nyctanthes arb-Q, Resorcin-Q, Jaborandi-Q, Thea chin-Q, Glycerin and Alcohol -12% v/v.

Triofer Tablet:

• Lycopodium clavatum30 0.0125 ml
• Cinchona officinalis30 0.0125 ml
• Carbo veg3x 0.0125 ml
• Ferrum met3x 150 mg
• Five phos6x 300 mg

Ferrum Metallicum3x, is iron preparation.

Iron is essential in the body for the formation of hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying substance in red blood cells. Lack of iron in body causes moodiness, nervousirritability, sensitivity, Pale face, Severe fatigue, Painful varicose veins, Digestive disorders (Nausea brought on by eating, reluctance to eat, vomiting, constipation or cramping pains), Stiffness of the lower back and neck, sciatica, arthritis, and headaches which often troubles for several days, with possible dizziness and scalp pain. Anemia, also leads to hair loss and makes any hair loss treatment less effective. So for stopping hair loos, it is essential to first cure anemia.

Five phos is combination of Calcarea Phosphorica, Ferrum Phosphoricum, Kali Phosphoricum, Magnesia Phosphoricum, Natrum Phosphoricum, in equal Proportion. It is a nerve and braintonic and indicated in anemia, wasting diseases and lack of vitality.

Benefits of Arnica Plus Triofer

The combined action of oil and tables for few months helps in variety of common health problems such as excessive falling of hair, premature hair graying, dandruff, weak hair roots and poor growth of hair. Tablets helps internally in liver and stomach troubles, constipation and Anaemia. It works internally and externally and works on root causes of hair problems.

1. It vitalize hair roots and promote hair growth.
2. It stimulates hair follicles and prevent hair loss.
3. It checks premature greying and dandruff.

Important Therapeutic Uses of Arnica Plus Triofer

Triofer Tablets helps to remove the root causes of hair problems from within like liver and stomach troubles, flatulence, constipation, anaemia and thereby controls excessive hair loss, premature greying and dandruff internally.

1. Alopecia
2. Baldness
3. Dandruff
4. Premature hair greying
5. Poor hair growth

Dosage and how to use Arnica Plus Triofer

Take 1 tablet empty stomach in the morning and at bed time with one glass of luke warm water.

Apply 30-35 drops of Arnica Plus on the scalp after bath and at bed time, massage gently to stimulate and nourish hair roots externally.

Cranberries are edible fruits of plant found in cooler climates of northern hemisphere. They are only found in cooler, sunny, wet and moist environment. It is one of few commercially grown fruits native to North America. Cranberries were used by Native Americans as food and medicine.

Cranberries can be eaten fresh, boiled, baked in a pit, dried, canned or in form of jams, jellies, and pies. Fresh berries are red in colour and are very tart.

Cranberries offer numerous health benefits due to their flavonoid and phytonutrient content. They are antioxidant, antiviral, anti-tumor, anticancer, antifungal, ACE inhibitor, lipid lowering and anti-inflammatory. They are especially beneficial in urinary infections. They increase good cholesterol and protects heart.

Cranberries have significant antioxidant properties and prevents body cells from free radical damage. Cranberry products, in particular the juice, with high concentrations of proanthocyanidin (or condensed tannins, are very powerful antioxidants that remove harmful free oxygen radicals from cells), reduces the risk of developing UTI. Cranberries are good support good health of oral cavity, gastrointestinal (GI) tract and urinary tract.

In India, nowadays, Cranberry Juice is available. It not only tastes great but also improves overall health. It is important to select only 100 % juice product. The one which comes with added sugar tastes great but is not so good for health owing to high sugar content.

General Information

Cranberry is a trailing, vine-like shrub with soft stems and grow at a fast rate.

The plant has alternate small evergreen leaves with rolled edges that are dark green above, pale beneath, and pointed at the tip. Flowers are pink to red borne singly or in clusters at the ends of stems. The flowers are have both male and female parts (hermaphrodite) and are self-pollinated or insect pollinated. Plant prefer sandy and loamy soils and prefers wet soil.

The fruit of plant is a red, juicyberry.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Cranberry is Vaccinium oxycoccos. It belongs to plant family Ericaceae.

Ericaceae is also known as Heath or rhododendron family. There are more than 100 genera of this family distributed all over the world. The largest genera of this family are Rhododendron (1200 species) and Erica (heaths, 700 species). To genus Vaccinium, berries such as blueberries, cranberries belong.

Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae (Plants)
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta (Vascular plants)
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta (Seed plants)
• Division: Magnoliophyta (Flowering plants)
• Class: Magnoliopsida (Dicotyledons)
• Subclass: Dilleniidae
• Order: Ericales
• Family: Ericaceae (Heath family)
• Genus: Vaccinium L. (blueberry)
• Species: Vaccinium oxycoccos L. (small cranberry)

Synonyms

1. Oxycoccus hagerupii
2. Oxycoccus intermedius
3. Oxycoccus microcarpos
4. Oxycoccus ovalifolius
5. Oxycoccus palustris
6. Oxycoccus quadripetalus
7. Oxycoccus vulgaris

Native: North America, Eurasia (combined continental landmass of Europe and Asia)

Group: Dicot

Part (s) used: Fruits

Planttype / Growth Habit: Shrub Subshrub

Duration: Perennial

Distribution: Throughout Alaska, Canada, Labrador, Greenland, Newfoundland, England, western Washington, Oregon

Habitat: Coniferous swamps; Moist to very wet, nitrogen-poor soils and high surface groundwater.

Propagation: Natural vegetative propagation. Also from seeds.

Vernacular names / Synonyms

Scientific name: Vaccinium oxycoccos, Vaccinium macrocarpon

English: Small cranberry, bog cranberry, swamp cranberry, wild cranberry

Constituents of Vaccinium oxycoccos

Cranberries contain Catechin, flavone glycosides, fructose, organic acids, proanthocyanidins and vitamin C.

Cranberry has a high Flavonols content (100–263 mg/kg) compared to other fruits. Flavonols are a class of flavonoids. They are phytochemicals present in plants and provide several health benefits owing to richness in medicinal properties such as antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant etc.

Cranberry also contain Citric, malic and benzoic acids.

Important Medicinal Properties

Cranberry is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

1. ACE inhibitor: Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors) that block the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, used in the treatment of hypertension.
2. Antioxidant: Significantly delays or prevents oxidation by destroying free radicals.
3. Antiviral: Destroys viruses or suppresses their replication
4. Antifungal: Destroys fungi or suppresses their growth/reproduction
5. Anti-inflammatory: Helps to counter the inflammatory process
6. Bacteriostatic: Stops bacteria from reproducing.
7. Chemoprotective: Protect healthy tissue from the toxic effects of anticancer drugs
8. Diuretic: Increase passing of urine

Nutrition of Cranberries (100 gram fresh, whole; 45 Calories Glycemic Index: low)

Health Benefits of Cranberry Juice

Cranberries are highly nutritious. They contain vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin K along with Manganese, Cooper, pantothenic acid and fiber. This combination is very beneficial for health.

Vitamin C and E are antioxidant. Vitamin C, water soluble vitamin helps in absorption of iron and boosts body immunity. Vitamin K, fat-soluble vitamin, helps in blood clotting. It is opposite in effect of blood thinning medicines.

Manganese is a component of a number of enzymes and activates a range of others. Low level of manganese in body can cause skeletal malformations, and impaired growth and reproductive function.

Cranberries are excellent for kidney, urethra, and bladder disorders. They are intestinal and urinary antiseptic.

Urinary problems

Cranberry improve urinary tract health by lowering the pH of the urinary tract. They are highly acidic and preventsgrowth of bacteria in urinary tract.

Cranberry juice also helps in urinary tract infections as it contain proanthocyanidin or condensed tannins which prevent adhesion of bacteria in tract. This allows flushing of bacteria out of the body along with urine.

Regular drinking of juice for one or more month reduces UTIs episodes. Researches indicate it can be used as an adjunctive treatment in UTI.

Antioxidant

Cranberries have more antioxidant activity compared to other fruits. It contains Vitamin C and Vitamin E.

Antioxidants are those substance which prevent oxidation or reactions promoted by oxygen, peroxides, or free radicals. Free radicals are formed in body either from normal metabolic processes or by exposure to external sources (X-rays, ozone, cigarette smoking, chemicals, pollution etc.). Free radicals are highly reactive and can attack the healthy cells of the body, causing them to lose their structure and function. Damage to cells leads to premature ageing and development and progression of many diseases.

Intake of potent antioxidants, such as Cranberry helps to maintain normal functioning and integrity of cells and thus delaying the ageing process and keeping good health. The free radical scavenging activity of Cranberry is comparable or superior to that of vitamin E, another antioxidant.

Drinking of cranberry juice increases plasma antioxidant status.

Good for heart

Cranberries reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-oxidation, maintain or improve high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels, reducing platelet aggregation and improve vascular function.

A small study of 30 abdominally obese, healthy, middle-aged men who consumed increasing doses of cranberry juice, up to 500 mL/day over 12 weeks, found a significant reduction in plasma matrix metalloproteinase-9, a substance which can accelerate atherosclerotic (deposition of fatty material on inner walls of arteries) progression.

Chemo protective

Cranberry prevents the growth and proliferation of several types of tumor or abnormal growth of cells in body due to its high bioflavonoid content and antioxidant properties.

Other Benefits

1. Cranberries are good for overall health. They provide vitamin C, energy, antioxidants, and minerals.
2. Cranberry juice prevents tooth decay due to presence of proanthocyanidin which prevent adhesion of bacteria to teeth. Inhibition of bacterial growth also protects gums from bacterial diseases.
3. Cranberries are effective in prevention of recurrent cold, cough, respiratory and ear infections due to presence of immunity boosting, antioxidant and other important phytochemicals.
4. Intake of Cranberry cures vitamin C deficiency.
5. Cranberry contains vitamins and is good for skin.
6. Antioxidant effect of Cranberry is on whole body.

Dose of Cranberry Juice

• Cranberry can be taken in dose of 120–400 ml daily by adults or 15 mL/kg or up to 300 mL daily by children.
• For recurrent UTIs the juice should be taken continuously for 4–8 weeks.
• As Cranberry is sour in taste, you may dilute it by adding water.
• Contraindications, Interactions, Side-effects and Warnings
• Opt only for 100 percent juice without added sugar and sweeteners.
• Commercially available Cranberry juice contains high amount of sugar and hence should not be taken by diabetics.
• In case the symptoms of UTI become more severe after taking juice medical advice is recommended.
• Cranberries contain oxalates and calcium. So person at the risk of oxalate kidney stones should take it cautiously. Cranberry juice can increase level of oxalate in urine by 43 percent.
• At high doses (more than three liters), gastrointestinal discomfort and diarrhea can occur.
• Cranberries are hot in potency.
• People who take anticoagulant / blood thinning medicines (Warfarin, to prevent the formation of blood clots in the blood) should take Cranberries cautiously. As it may affect efficacy and safety of anticoagulant medicines in body.
• People taking blood-thinning medicines and prescribed Aspirin, should not drink too much Cranberry juice.

Kalanchoe laciniata is known as Parnabija, Zakhm-e-Hayaat, Malakalli in Ayurvedic, Unani and Siddha system of medicine respectively. It is medicinal plant with succulent leaves and belong to plant family Crassulaceae, commonly referred as Stonecrop or Orpine family and Genus Kalanchoe.

The genus ‘Kalanchoe’ consists of about 125 species of plant found in tropical parts. Previously this genus was divided into three genera (Kalanchoe, Bryophyllum, Kitchingia). But now it is recognized as only one genus Kalanchoe. Kalanchoe are primarily ornamentals and houseplants. They can be planted in pots.

Another important medicinal plant belonging to its genus is, Kalanchoe pinnata / Bryophyllum pinnatum (Pattharchatta, cathedral bells) which is used to expel urinary stones.

It is important to note, Kalanchoe pinnata and Kalanchoe laciniata are to different species but are used in the same way. Also as described in classical texts, species of Kalanchoe viz. Kalanchoe lanciniata, Kalanchoe integra, or Kalanchoe pinnata can be equated to the botanical source of Parnabija.

Parnabija (Parna=leaf; bija=seeds, the naming is due to the fact that plant leaf produces roots and baby plants which becomes independent plants, so the leaf acts as seeds) plant possess diuretic, astringent, and hemostatic properties. Due to all these properties they are used in treatment of urinary diseases, bleeding disorders and wound healing. Kalanchoe laciniata is found only in few regions of India.

General Information

Kalanchoe laciniata is a succulent herb. The plant grows up to a height of 0.9–1.2 m.

The stems are succulent, glabrous or more or less pubescent and slightly branched.

Leaves are numerous, large and very succulent, 7.5 cm–10 cm long. The petiole is 2.5 cm–3.8 cm long, flattened above, fleshy and amplexicaul. The blade is narrow oblong, acute, dentate, serrate or crenate.

The leaves are glossy and pale glaucous to green in colour. The lowest leaves are divided into segments. The middle leaves are more or less deeply pinnatifid and the uppermost leaves are with narrow almost cylindrical segments.

Flowers are regular, bisexual, large, bright in colour yellow and occur in paniculate cymes. The calyx is 3-5 mm long, glabrous or glandular- pubescent. Corolla is 1.6 cm long. Sepal and petals are four in number. A few hypogenous scales of 3-4 mm long are present. Stamens are eight, inserted in two rows on the tube of the corolla. Ovary is superior.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Hemsagar is Kalanchoe laciniata.

Latin word laciniata is derived from lacer meaning 'fringed or very deeply cut, torn or slashed into narrow divisions'. Since the leaves are fringed and divided, the species is given name Kalanchoe (name of genus) laciniata (type of leaf).

It belongs to plant family Crassulaceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
• Subclass: Rosidae
• Order: Rosales
• Family: Crassulaceae – Stonecrop family
• Genus: Kalanchoe Adans. – widow's-thrill
• Species: Kalanchoe laciniata (L.) DC. – Christmas tree plant

Synonyms

Kalanchoe schweinfurthii Penzig.

Cotyledon laciniata Roxb

• Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Leaves
• Plant type / Growth Habit: Herb
• Duration: Perennial
• Distribution: It is found in India (Maharashtra, Deccan Peninsula, Bengal), Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Java and tropical Africa.
• Habitat: Warm, moist regions
• Soil: Prefer sandy soil
• Leaves: Decompound and pinnatifid
• Flower: Yellow, with 4 sepals and petals.

Main Indications

1. Urinary disorders
2. Diabetes
3. Common cold and cough
4. Inflammation

Vernacular names / Synonyms

• Scientific name: Kalanchoe laciniata
• Sanskrit / Ayurvedic: Hamsagar, Asthibhaksha, Hemasagara, Parnaviji, Parnabija, Vatapatri
• Unani: Zakhm-e-Hayaat
• Siddha: Malakalli
• Tamil: Malakalli, Mala-kulli
• Sri Lanka: Akkapana
• English: Christmas tree plant
• Marathi: Parnabij, Ghaimari, Ghaipat, Aranmaran
• Folk: Hemasaagar

Constituents of Kalanchoe laciniata

The leaves contain a yellow organic acid, cream of tartar, sulphate and oxalate of calcium, tartaric acid, fat and malic acid.

Flavonoids, triterpenoids, lignins, phenols, saponins and glycosides are also present.

Important Medicinal Properties

Kalanchoe laciniata is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

• Anti-dysenteric: Relieving or preventing dysentery.
• Astringents: Constrict tissues; styptic.
• Anti-inflammatory: Reducing inflammation by acting on body mechanisms.
• Antiseptic: Capable of preventing infection by inhibiting the growth of infectious agents.
• Antiulcer: Tending to prevent or heal ulcers.
• Anti-irritant: Reduces signs of inflammation, such as swelling, tenderness, pain, itching, or redness.
• Diuretic: Promoting excretion of urine/agent that increases the amount of urine excreted.
• Emollient: Soothing and softening effect on the skin or an irritated internal surface.
• Hemostatic: Checking blood flow.

Medicinal Uses of Kalanchoe laciniata (Christmastree plant)

Kalanchoe laciniata is used in the same way as Kalanchoe pinnata or Patharchatta.

1. The leaves are used both internally and externally. Externally, roasted or crushed leaves are applied on cuts, wounds, abrasions, ulcers and bites of poisonous insects. They are antiseptic, astringent and helps to stop bleeding. Internally, leaf juice in given to treat diarrhea, dysentery, and stones.
2. The leaves and roots are used for the treatment of urinarydiseases.
3. The intake of leaves help to dissolvestones in the bladder.
4. The decoction of the whole plant is drunk in gastric pain and heart discomfort.
5. The leaves juice is given in dose of 3 ml to 10 ml with 6- 20 ml melted butter in in diarrhea, dysentery, and cholera.
6. Leaf paste is applied to chronic sores and ulcers.
7. Leaf poultice is applied to the chest for coughs and colds.
8. The juice of the roasted leaves is applied to bruises and contusions.
9. The leaf paste is applied topically on itch.
10. The leaves are used as lotion in small pox.
11. Crushed leaves are used in headache.
12. Leaf juice is applied externally for joint pain.
13. Pounded leaves are applied in indolent ulcers.

Helicteres isora is most commonly known as Marori, Marorphali, Marodphali, Enthani, Mriga-shinga, Kevani, Varkati, Dhiniani, Valumbirikai, Atmorha and East Indian Screw tree. In Sanskrit it is called Avartani and Mriga-shinga which literally means deer's horn.

The tree is named so because of the appearance of its pods (fruits) which are peculiarly twisted. The pods are singular-looking contorted capsule, consisting of five fibers closely twisted together in the form of a screw. It is of various lengths varying from one inch to two and a half.

By Adityamadhav83 (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

---

The plant possess antioxidant, hypolipidemic, antibacterial, anti-plasmid, cardiac antioxidant, anticancer, anodyne, hepatoprotective, anti-diarrheal activity.

The bark and fruits are used traditionally in treatment of diarrhea, worm infestation, offensive sores inside the ears, colic, flatulence and chronic dysentery. The root bark is prescribed in diabetes. It acts in diabetes by insulin-sensitizing activity.

General Information

• Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Stembark, Root juice, Fruit, Seed
• Plant type / Growth Habit: Sub-deciduous shrub
• Duration: Perennial
• Distribution: Throughout Central and Western India, especially in Rajasthan, Punjab, Bihar, Bengal, Andaman. Also found in Sri Lanka, Java, and northern Australia.
• Habitat: Dry forests
• Flowering: April to December
• Fruiting: October to June

Description of plant:

Marorphali / Marorfali, is a tall shrub or small tree, found throughout Central and western India. The stem is 2-12.5 cm in diameter and the plant reach upto height of 5-10 feet.

Bark of tree us grey in colour and young parts are covered with stellate hairs.

Leaves are simple, alternate, petioled and acute. They are palmately nerved or obliquely cordate. The margins are serrated.

Peduncles are many-flowered and terminating. Flowers are orange-red in colour and turn pale blue later. The petals are long.

The fruit consists of five slender angularcarpels, twisted like a corkscrew, and together forming a cone about 1.5 to 2 inches long. The carpels are greenish brown in colour. Single row of dark brown angular seeds are present inside the fruit. The internal surface is of a light greenish hue and highly polished. The taste mucilaginous.

The rootbark is of a dark-brown colour and is very thickly studded with small round warts.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Maror Phali is Helicteres isora. It belongs to plant family Sterculiaceae.

The word Helicteres is derived from, the Greek word helikteres meaning anything twisted / in spiral. Isora is a Japanese name for boys meaning God of the seashore. Helicteres is a large genus of tropical trees and shrubs with axillary flowers and fruits consisting of five twisted carpels.

Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta
• Division: Magnoliophyta
• Class: Magnoliopsida
• Subclass: Rosidae
• Order: Malvales
• Family: Sterculiaceae - large family of plants of order Malvales
• Subfamily: Helicteroideae
• Genus: Helicteres - genus of shrubs and small trees of tropical America and Asia having cylindrical fruits spirally twisted around one another
• Species: isora

Vernacular names / Synonyms

1. Scientific name: Helicteres isora
2. Ayurvedic: Aavartani, Aavartphalaa, Aavartaki, Murva, Avartani, Avartaphala
3. Unani: Marorphali, Maroor phalli
4. Siddha: Valamburi, Valambiri
5. English: East Indian Screw Tree, Indian screw tree
6. Hindi: Marori, Marorphali, Mrigashinga, Marodshingi, Gomathi, Enthani
7. Bengali: Atmora, Antmora
8. Gujrati: Mriga Shinga, Maradashingh, Maradashinghi
9. Marathi: Kevani, Varkati, Dhamni, Kewad, Muradsheng
10. Madhya Pradesh: Anthi
11. Payyannur: Kayyula
12. Kannada: Pedamuri
13. Malayalam: Ishwarmuri
14. Oriya: Murmuriya
15. Tamil: Valumbirikai, Balampari
16. Telugu: Guvadarra
17. Persia: Kisht-bar-kisht, Pechak
18. Tehran: Bahman-i-pich, Pachman-i-puh

Unani Properties

In Unani medicine, it is described as hot and dry in the third degree.

Mulattiff (Demulcent): Break the matter into pieces and make humor more liquid by their mild hotness.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action

In Ayurveda, Marorphali is known as Avartaki or Avartani. It cures aggravated kapha and pitta both from upper and lower parts of the body. It also curesKushtha (obstinate skin diseases including leprosy).

Marorphali is astringent in taste (Rasa), pungent after digestion (Vipaka), and is cool in effect (Virya).

• Rasa (taste on tongue): Kashaya (Astringent)
• Guna (Pharmacological Action): Laghu (Light), Ruksha (Dry)
• Virya (Action): Shita (Cooling)
• Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Katu (Pungent)

It is a Katu Vipak herb. Vipak refers to post-digestive (effect after digestion / cooking of Rasa) effect of tastes after its mixing with digestive juices. It is the long term effect of herb. Katu Vipak herbs, increases dryness in body. Such foods reduce fertility and Kapha. Avartani is indicated in Atisar (diarrhoea), Shula (colic) and Krimi (intestinal parasites).

Constituents of Helicteres isora

The plant contains a 4-quinolone alkaloid,malatyamine, an antidiarrhoeal principle. Roots contain cytotoxic principles—cucurbitacin B and iso-cucurbitacin B.

• Root: Cucurbitacin b, isocucurbitacin b β-sitosterol, betulic acid, oleanolic acid, daucosterol, isorin, 3 β27diacetoxylup20(29)en-28-oic methyl ester Catechol, Gallic acid
• Bark/stem: β-sitosterol; 10-methyl, 4-isopropenyl and dodecahydro- ethanophenanthrene
• Fruits: Rosmarinic acid and their derivatives; isoscutellarein and their derivatives; D-glucopyranosyl isorinic acid with rosmarinic acid; Helisterculins A and B, Helisorin Gallic acid, Caffeic acid, vanillin, p-Coumaric acid

Important Medicinal Properties

Various parts of Helicteres isora possess important medicinal properties. The understanding of properties helps to better utilize the herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid its internal use. For example, the roots and stem bark are, anti-galactagogue which means an agent for suppressing lactation. Therefore it should not be used during breastfeeding.

Below is given medicinal properties along with meaning.

Pods & Bark

• Anti-dysenteric: Relieving or preventing dysentery.
• Antidiarrheal: Relieving or preventing diarrhea.
• Astringents: Constrict tissues; styptic.
• Anti-bilious: Serving to prevent or cure biliousness or excess secretion of bile.
• Antioxidant: Neutralize the oxidant effect of free radicals and other substances.
• Anthelmintic: Antiparasitic, expel Parasitic worms (helminths) and other internal parasites from the body.
• Demulcent: Relieving inflammation or irritation.

Root & Stembark

• Anti-diabetic: Manages diabetes.
• Anti-hyperglycemic: Counteracting high levels of glucose in the blood.
• Astringents: Constrict tissues; styptic.
• Antigalactagogue: Prevents breast milk.
• Anodyne: Relieves pain without causing loss of consciousness.
• Demulcent: Relieving inflammation or irritation.
• Expectorant: Promotes the secretion of sputum by the air passages, used to treat coughs.
• Hepatoprotective: Prevent damage to the liver.
• Hypolipidemic: Lowers lipid level in blood.

Medicinal Uses of Helicteres isora (Marorphali)

According to the doctrine of signatures, the shape, appearance of plant part itself suggests its use. The pods of Maror phali are twisted like intestine and it is mainly used in treatment of intestinal complaints such as colic, flatulence diarrhea, and dysentery. Other important medicinal use include in diabetes and locally in otorrhoea (discharge from ear).

The fruit and bark of Marorphali are astringent in gripes, anti-diarrheal and anthelmintic. They are used most commonly in treatment of intestinal complaints such as griping in the bowels and flatulence, diarrhea, dysentery and worm infestation.

In one clinical study, 37 patients of intestinal amoebiasis were treated with a combination of Bekh-e-Madaar (root-bark of Calotropis procera 125 mg) + Marorphali (1000 mg), thrice daily for one month. The clinical efficacy was found close to that of Metronidazole.

The root juice is given in diabetes, empyema, snakebite, stomach trouble.

Below is given some of the traditional therapeutic uses of vicious parts of Maror Phali.

As an ear drop, Discharge from ear

Boil the crushed pods in castor oil and use as earn drop.

Asthma, Cough

Drink decoction of bark.

Colic pain

Roots of tree are chewed in dose of 5 grams per day for three days.

Cut and wounds

Fresh root paste with turmeric paste is applied externally.

Dysentery, stomach ache

1. The fruit paste or powder is taken in dose of 5 grams twice a day for three days.
2. Bark boiled with water taken orally thrice per day.
3. Seed powder, 5 g boiled in water is taken twice a day.

Diabetes

1. One fresh fruit taken orally.
2. Fresh root juice taken twice a day.

Gastrointestinal problems

Fruit powder 5 g is taken thrice daily with water.

Scabies

1. The root or bark paste is applied topically for scabies.
2. The Paste is applied externally twice per day till cure on infection area of scabies.

Skin infections

Fresh leaf paste applied thrice a day.

Snakebite

1. Fresh leaf paste applied on affected area.
2. Weakness in new born baby
3. Fruit paste mixed with mustard oil and turmeric is used for massaging in new born baby to cure profound weakness.

Dosage of Helicteres isora

• The recommended dose of Helicteres isora decoction is 50-100 ml.
• The powder of fruit, bark is taken in dose of 3-6 grams.
• Contraindications, Interactions, Side-effects and Warnings Helicteres isora
• There are no known side-effects.
• Avoid use in pregnancy and breast feeding.

Marsdenia tenacissima is a medicinal plant and commonly known as Murva or Moorva. It is a perennial climber, bearing green flowers and found in tropical hilly tracts of peninsular India and Vindhya ranges as well as lower Himalayan tracts. This plant prefers poor soil. Murva is found growing in tropical and subtropical dry and moist deciduous forests having annual rainfall between 1000 mm and 1500 mm. It grows in moist places in nature and is a shade-loving plant.

The roots of Murva plant are used as single drug and also in compound formulations of Ayurveda for treating of fever, polyuria, dryness of mouth, worm infestations, itching, bleeding piles, bleeding disorders and excessive thirst. It belongs to Aragwadhadi group of herbs, which are especially used for chronic obstinate urinary disorders, diseases of skin, vomiting etc. It is detoxifies blood and gives relief in skin diseases. It has purgative action.

Marsdenia tenacissima (Roxb.) Moon. is accepted source of Murva. Murva is one of the most controversial drugs in Ayurveda with more than 7 plant species from different families being used as the source in different parts of the country.

Lannea coromandelica and Maerua arenaria are also referred as Murva. Chonemorpha fragrans (macrophylla) is used as Murva in Kerala, Sansevieria roxburghiana in Tamil Nadu, Clematis triloba in Gujrat and Maharashtra and Helicteres isora in Punjab and Marsdenia volubilis in Southern states.

The roots of this medicinal herb are wrongly supplied as Trivrit / White Turpeth (Safed Nishoth) in Northern India because the accepted botanical source of Turpeth (Nishoth) is Operculina turpethum (Linn.) Silva Manso synonym Ipomoea turpethum R. Br.

General Information

1. Plant Description: Marsdenia tenacissima is a large, extensive twining shrub with very stout, bluntly angular, densely velvety and hairy branches. Stem and branches are slightly stout and densely tomentose.
2. Leaves are simple, opposite, petiolate, very large, 15—17.5 cm long and nearly as wide, deeply cordate with rounded lobes at base, shortly, acuminate, acute, softly velvety on both sides or nearly glabrous above, petioles 7.5 cm long, softly hairy.
3. Flowers are greenish yellow, regular, bisexual, numerous in large, paniculate, axillary cymes, pedicels long and hairy. Sepals 5 almost distinct, oblong, hairy. Petals 5, fused into a sub-campanulate corolla, velvety outside, lobes as long as the tube, oblong, obtuse spreading, contorted. Stamens 5, connate, anthers with inflexed lips, pollen masses one in each chamber, stalked, oblong, erect. Corona staminal, of 5, flat, erect scales, adnate to the back of the anthers.
4. Ovary is superior, of 2 distinct carpels, stigma large, convex. Fruit-follicles 15 cm long, tapering to a point, smooth, fusiform.
5. Fruit a follicles of 2, cylindric, up to 8 cm long pubescent.
6. Roots are cylindrical, externally yellow to buff colored with dark brown patches on the cork. There are prominent longitudinal ridges and furrows and transverse cracks present. The bark easily get separated from wood. The roots taste slightly bitter.
7. Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Dried roots, whole plant
8. Plant type / Growth Habit: twining shrub
9. Duration: Perennial
10. Distribution: Throughout India, from Kumaun to Asaam upto altitude of 1500 meters, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Orissa, Southern states, Deccan peninsula. Also found in Bangladesh (Chittagong, Bandarban, Rangamati and Tangail districts), Sri Lanka, Myanmar, China, Nepal and Thailand
11. Habitat: Scrub jungles of rain forests, shady-moist places in Sandy-loam soil
12. Flowering and fruiting: June to December
13. Propagation: Propagation is done by stem and root cuttings.

Vernacular names / Synonyms

• Scientific name: Marsdenia tenacissima (Roxb.) Moon
• Sanskrit/Ayurvedic: Madhusrava, Madhurasa, Devi, Piluparni, Devashreni, Snigdhaparni, Prithakparni, Morata, Piluparnika
• Assam: Murha
• Bengali: Chitti, Jitti, Siti
• Gujarat: Moravel
• Hindi: Murva, Jartor, Safed Nishoth, Chinhaur
• Kannada: Koratige Hambu, Kallu Shambu, Koratige, Halukaratige, Kadaluhaleballi
• Malayalam: Perumkurumba
• Marathi: Morvel
• Oriya: Murva, Murga
• Tamil: Perunkurinjan
• Telugu: Chagaveru
• Urdu: Turbud Safed
• Siddha: Perunkurinjan
• Unani: Moorwa
• Folk: Maruaa-bel
• English: White Nishoth and Rajmahal Hemp
• Sinhalese: Muruva-dul
• Marma: Sakmaburo, Townoy
• Tripura: Duabotoi
• Khumi: Ayukaethui
• Trade name: Murva

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Murva is Marsdenia tenacissima. It belongs to plant family Asclepiadaceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
• Subclass: Asteridae
• Order: Gentianales
• Family: Asclepiadaceae – Milkweed family
• Genus: Marsdenia R. Br. – marsdenia P
• Species: Marsdenia tenacissima

Synonym

Asclepias tenacissima Roxb.

Constituents of Marsdenia tenacissima

The root and seed are rich in pregnane glycosides of z-deoxysugars, which on hydrolysis gave genins and sugars including cissogenin, tenasogenin, tenacissigenin, iso-drevogenin P, drevogenin Q, D-cymarose, asclepobiose, D-canarose, 3-0methyl- 6-deoxy-D-allose, iz-alpha-tz-betamarsdenin, beta-O-glucosyl-L-thevetose, cinnamic and acetic acids. Stems yielded five more glycosides named tenacissoides A-E.

The bark of the young shoots yields a very strong, silky fibre and a milky juice containing caoutchouc. The fine silky fibers are used for making bow strings and ropes.

The latex (the coagulated milky sap) obtained from the stem can be used like rubber.

Important Medicinal Properties

Marsdenia tenacissima is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

1. Antiscorbutic: Curing or preventing scurvy.
2. Antioxidant: Neutralize the oxidant effect of free radicals and other substances.
3. Antispasmodic: Used to relieve spasm of involuntary muscle.
4. Anthelmintic: Antiparasitic, expel Parasitic worms (helminths) and other internal parasites from the body.
5. Antibacterial: Active against bacteria.
6. Anti-obesity: Reducing or controlling obesity.
7. Mild CNS depressant: depression of the central nervous system that can result in decreased rate of breathing, decreased heart rate, and loss of consciousness.
8. Depurative: Purifying agent.
9. Laxative: Tending to stimulate or facilitate evacuation of the bowels.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action of Murva Roots

Murva is bitter, sweet in taste (Rasa), sweet after digestion (Vipaka), and is hot in effect (Virya).

The roots are available in cut pieces of varying length and 0.5-3 cm thick. They are ground to make powder. This medicinal herb is known as Madhusravi in Sanskrit as it possess milky juice or latex.

• Rasa (taste on tongue): Madhura (Sweet), Tikta (Bitter)
• Guna (Pharmacological Action): Guru (Heavy), Sara
• Virya (Action): Ushna (Heating)
• Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Madhura (Sweet)

Karma/ Action

• Rakshoghna: Anti-bacterial
• Kaphahara: Pacifies Kapha Dosha
• Pittahara: Pacifies Pitta Dosha
• Vatahara: Pacifies Vata Dosha
• Vishaghna: Poison-destroying
• Trishgna: Alleviates thirst

In Ayurveda, it is used in treatment of variety of diseases such as:

1. Fever / Jwar
2. Obesity / Medoroga
3. Urinary disorders, polyuria / Meha
4. Intestinal parasites / Krimi Roga
5. Heart diseases / Hridya Roga
6. Itching / Kandu
7. Piles / Arsha
8. Bleeding disorders, abnormal bleeding from organs, hemorrhagic diseases / Raktpitta
9. Excessive thirst / Trishna

Important Formulations

1. Aragvadhadi Kvatha Churna
2. Patoladi Kvatha Churna
3. Prameha Mihira Tail
4. Sudarshana Churna

Medicinal Uses of Marsdenia tenacissima (Murva)

1. The decoction of the leaves is given for flatulence and as a remedy for gonorrhea.
2. The dried flowers and leaves of are used internally for cough, vomiting, fever and as an appetizer.
3. The paste is applied externally over major burns.
4. It is used as ingredient in preparation of medicated oil which is applied on skin diseases, fractures, convulsions, hemiplegia, facial paralysis and cephalalgia.
5. For fungal infections of skin, the sap obtained by breaking the leaf is applied externally.
6. This plant is also used in the treatment of paralysis.

Dosage of Marsdenia tenacissima

1. The recommended dose of roots is 2-5 grams powder.
2. The decoction can be prepared from 10-20 grams of roots. The recommended dose of decoction is 50-100ml.

Unienzyme is digestive medicine from Unichem. It is an enzyme preparation. It is combination of enzymes (fungal diastase, papain) to aid digestion and activated charcoal for absorbing gas and toxins from digestive tract. It has negligible side effects and is known to help in cases where the belching is due to indigestion.

Unienzyme Digestive Tablet indicated in bloating, discomfort, and pain caused by stomach gas. It promotes digestion.

Here is given more about this medicine, such as benefits, indication/therapeutic uses, composition and dosage.

1. Brand / Manufacturer: Unichem
2. Purpose: Digestive enzyme
3. MRP / Price: 15'S for ₹ 40
4. Availability: Online and at medical stores

Ingredients of Unienzyme

Each sugar coated tablet contains:

1. Fungal Diastase 100 mg
2. Papain 60 mg
3. Activated Charcoal 75 mg

Fungal Diastase is starch-hydrolyzing enzymes which convert starch into simple sugars. It is an amylolytic enzymes obtained from fungus Aspergillus oryzae.

Papain is proteolytic enzyme (breaks proteins into simpler compounds) obtained from papaya. It has extensive proteolytic activity towards proteins, short chain peptides, amino acid esters and amide links. It is an endolytic plant cysteine protease enzyme. Papain is obtained by cutting the skin of the unripe papaya and then collecting and drying the latex which flows from the cut. The greener the fruit more active is the papain.

Activated Charcoal / activated carbon, is a fine black odorless and tasteless powder made from wood or other materials that have been exposed to very high temperatures in an airless environment. It is then treated, or activated, to increase its ability to adsorb various substances by reheating with oxidizing gas or other chemicals to break it into a very fine powder.

It is pure carbon specially processed to make it highly adsorbent of particles and gases in the body's digestive system. As it also adsorb gas in the bowels and hence used for the treatment of gas or diarrhea.

It is an absorbent and mainly used is poisoning as it binds and absorbs ingested toxins.

Benefits of Unienzyme

1. It promotes digestion of food.
2. It gives relief in bloating, belching after meal.
3. It helps in indigestion.
4. It is effective and safe for longer duration.
5. It has negligible side-effects.
6. It is inexpensive.

Important Therapeutic Uses of Unienzyme

It contains digestive enzymes which helps in better digestion and gives relief in indigestion. Activated charcoal absorbs the gas and give relief in bloating.

1. Anorexia
2. Belching
3. Chronic illness
4. Chronic gastritis
5. Digestive disorders
6. Flatulence
7. Impaired appetite
8. Indigestion / dyspepsia
9. Pancreatic insufficiency

Dosage of Unienzyme

Take 1-2 tabs twice or thrice a day after major meals, with water.

Side-effects, Caution and Warningss

1. It is safe to take Unienzyme regularly.
2. It turns the stool black.
3. Activated charcoal may have few side effects including nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping and constipation.
4. It contains proteolytic enzyme Papain, extracted from unripe papaya fruit latex. Hence it is possibly unsafe to take this medicine during pregnancy.
5. It can cause mild skin irritation, burning sensation and painful urination.
6. In you have Bleeding disorder/ have undergone surgery/ taking certain other medicine/ planning to get pregnant, always consult doctor before taking it.

Paeonia emodi or Himalayan Peony is found in Western Himalayas. It is a perennial plant with tuberous roots and beautiful big whiteflowers with central boss of yellow stamens. It is also known as Chandra (meaning moon in Hindi) in some Himalayan states as the flowers are round and white as moon. Lovely gregarious patches of blooming peony can be seen in Kagan and Kashmir during spring season.

By Epibase - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=4241796

---

Himalayan Peony is an ornamental, economic and medicinal plant. The roots of various Paeonia species are used for medicinal purpose since time immemorial. In ancient times, it was believed that the peony root, if worn by children round their necks, has the power of preventing epileptic attacks. The roots of plant are given in uterine diseases, colic, bilious obstructions, dropsy, epilepsy, convulsions, hysteria diseases of liver, spleen and bladder.

General Information

• Plant Description: It is a stout glabrous perennial plant that reaches upto 1-3 ft. in height. The roots are thick and fleshy.
• Leaves are oblong or lanceolate, alternate, 6-12 inch long. Leaflets 3, usually 3-parted, segments lanceolate, pointed, and entire.
• Flowers are large, white, 3-4 in. diameter, long-peduncled, usually in the axil of upper leaves. Follicles 1, rarely 2, ovoid. Buds globose. Sepals 5, orbicular, concave, green, persistent the outer ones ending in a leaf-like point. Petals 5-10, broadly ovate, concave, red or white. Yellow stamens many.
• Ovaries 1-3, densely hairy, many-ovuled, seated on a fleshy disk; style short, broad, recurved. Follicles ovoid, 1 in. Seeds few, large.
• Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: tuber/root, flowers, seeds
• Plant type / Growth Habit: Herb/undershrub
• Duration: Perennial
• Distribution: Found in the temperate Western Himalayas from Hazara to Kumaon at altitudes of 5,000 to 10,000 ft.
• Habitat: West Temperate Himalaya, western Nepal, Afghanistan, southern Tibet and China
• Native: Central Asia to Mediterranean region
• Soil: Well drained fertile soil

Vernacular names / Synonyms

• Scientific name: Paeonia emoai Wall. ex Royle
• Hindi: Udsalap
• English: Himalayan Peony, Peony Rose
• Bhutia: Bhuma madiya, Yet Ghas
• Kashmir: Mid
• Punjab: Mamekh, Chandra
• Urdu: Ood Gharqi (Neem Kofta), Ood-e-Saleeb

Unani Medicines containing Paeonia emodi:

1. Arq-e-Amber
2. Majoon-e-Zabeeb
3. Habb-e-Ood Saleeb (epilepsy, hysteria, paralysis, convulsions, insanity, nervous affections)

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Himalayan Peony is Paeonia emodi. It belongs to genus Paeonia and family Paeoniaceae. The name Peony refers to any of the flowering plants of genus Paeonia. It is a Himalayan plant and in Latin 'emodi montes' refers to Himalaya.

Paeoniaceae or the peony family, consists of the genus Paeonia with about 33 species distributed in Europe, Asia, and western North America. The plants belonging to this family are perennial herbs or sometimes shrubs.

Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
• Subclass: Dilleniidae
• Order: Dilleniales
• Family: Paeoniaceae – Peony family
• Genus: Paeonia L. – peony P
• Species: Paeonia emodi
• European species: Paeonia officinalis - Common peony
• Chinese species: Paeonia lactiflora - Chinese peony

Constituents of Paeonia emodi

The tubers of plant contain essential oil. Salicylaldehyde is the chief component of the root essential oil.

Mixture of n-alkanes, beta-amyrin, butyrospermol, cycloartenol, lupeol, 24-methylenecycloartenol, cholesterol, campesterol, sitosterol;octanoic, decanoic, lauric, myristic, myristoleic, palmitic, palmitoleic, stearic, oleic, linoleic acids, and ethyl gallate are present in root oil.

European species, Paeonia officinalis, roots and seeds contain a toxic alkaloid. This alkaloid is stated to produce contraction of the renal capillaries and increase the coagulability of the blood.

Important Medicinal Properties

Paeonia emodi is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it. For example it is Uterocontractant and hence should not be used in pregnancy.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

1. Anticonvulsant: Prevent or reduce the severity of epileptic fits or other convulsions.
2. Antitumor: inhibit growth of tumor.
3. Antiulcer: Tending to prevent or heal ulcers.
4. Anticonvulsant: Prevent or reduce the severity of epileptic fits or other convulsions.
5. Anti-testosterone: Lowers male hormone Testosterone.
6. CNSdepressing: depression of the central nervous system that can result in decreased rate of breathing, decreased heart rate, and loss of consciousness.
7. Diuretic: Promoting excretion of urine/agent that increases the amount of urine excreted.
8. Depurative: Purifying agent.
9. Hepatoprotective: Prevent damage to the liver.
10. Hypotensive: Lowers blood pressure.
11. Hypothermic: Lowers body temperature.
12. Utero-contractant: Contracts womb.

Medicinal Uses of Paeonia emodi or Himalayan Peony

Himalayan Peony is a medicinal plant and for medicinal purpose its roots, flowers and leaves are used. The tuberous roots of plant are highly esteemed as a medicine for uterine diseases, colic, bilious obstructions, dropsy, epilepsy, convulsions, hysteria and in nervous affections.

1. Paeonia emodi Root powder mixed with Selinum vaginatum root powder is given ½ teaspoon twice a day up to 6 months for the treatment of hysteria, convulsion and epilepsy.
2. The root powder of Paeonia emodi, Acorus calamus and Selinum vaginatum are mixed and given in dose of half teaspoon twice a day for hysteria and epilepsy.
3. The shade dried Leaves washed with hot water thrice, and then used as vegetable twice a day for the treatment of colic, blood dysentery, diabetes and urinary complaints.
4. It is generally given to children as a blood-purifier.
5. The flowers have anti-diarrheal properties. The infusion of the dried flowers is highly valued as a remedy for diarrhea.
6. The roots are used to cure backache and dropsy.
7. It is also used improve lactation and treat menstrual problems.

Dosage of Paeonia emodi

The root powder is taken in 1-3 grams.

Contraindications, Interactions, and Side Effects (Peony)

1. Health hazards not known with proper therapeutic dosages.
2. It must not be taken in pregnancy.
3. In excess (60 grains) the drug produces headache, noise in the ears, confused vision, and vomiting.
4. Side effects that may occur, particularly in cases of over dosages, include gastroenterosis with vomiting, colic, and diarrhea.
5. The seeds are emetic and cathartic.
6. The plant contains oxalic acid and tannins.

Lasora, Lisodaa, Gondi, Naruvili and Sabestan Plum are few common names of Cordia dichotoma or Cordia myxa, a tree found throughout India. The various parts of tree are used both internally and externally for medicinal purpose since time immemorial.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/dinesh_valke/2617609065

---

Lasora tree is used traditionally in treatment of dyspepsia, fever, ringworm, ulcers, prolapsed of uterus/vagina, headache, affection of urinary passage, diseases of lungs and spleen. The leaves, fruit, bark and seeds have been reported to exhibit antidiabetic, antiulcer, anti-inflammatory, immune-modulator and analgesic activities.

Lasora or Sabestan Plum bears edible mucilaginous fruits (drupes) with sweet taste. The sticky white substance from the fruits can be extracted and as used as glue. Fruits can be eaten fresh, dry and pickled.

Ripe fruits are eaten fresh while unripe fruits can be pickled. Due to mucilaginous, astringent and demulcent properties Acharya Sushruta prescribed the fruits internally for biliousness, cough and hemorrhage. Fruits exhibits significant anti-ulcer and cytoprotective effects. As they are expectorant, demulcent and hence are useful in dry cough, catarrh, coryza, chronic bronchitis, influenza and in burning micturition. The bark is high in tannic acid and applied topically on erysipelas, spider-poisoning, ulcers and boils.

In Egypt dried fruits are still sold today in the spice markets as sapistan and are used as medicine. In Unani, Sapistan is considered hot and dry of second degree. The fruits are used as an adjuvant to purgatives for counteracting their irritative effect. A Unani compound formulation, Laooq-e-Sapistan is indicated in catarrh, coryza, chronic bronchitis, influenza.

General Information

Plant Description: Cordia dichotoma is a moderate-sized, deciduous, tree, 40 or 50 feet high and usually, with a crooked trunk. It has slender, glabrous twigs and pubescent buds.

Bark of tree is grey or brown rough, with shallow longitudinal wrinkles and furrows and about half inch thick. Branchlets are glabrous and the young shoots are silvery grey. The bark is available in form of pieces, 5 to 10 cm long and 6 to 12 mm thick with dark greyish brown colour.

The leaves are simple, alternate, 6-10.5 cm long, 4-7.5 cm broad, broadly oval or elliptic-ovate, rounded at the base, obtuse or subacute at apex, entire or more or less coarsely sinuate-serrate in the upper half, glabrous on both sides, thin. Petioles are 1.7—4.3 cm long and slender.

Flowers are regular, bisexual, white, divaricate, branched corymbs, pedicels short. Sepals are 5, fused into a tubular-campanulate, glabrous calyx, pubescent within. Petals are 5, fused into a funnel-shaped corolla. Corolla-tube 4 mm long, segments 3.5 mm long, 2 mm broad, oblong, recurved. Stamens are 5, hairy, inserted in the throat of the corolla. Ovary is superior, globular, glabrous.

Fruit is a globular-ovoid drupe. It is smooth and of the size of a cherry. It is yellow on ripening and the pulp is almost transparent, tough and viscid. Nut is cordate and seed is solitary. The dried fruit is conical with acute apex, upto 2 cm in length and 1.5 cm in diameter, occasionally with attached calyx and pedicel, greyish brown to dark brown, surface shrunken, hard to break. The smell of the nut on cutting is heavy and disagreeable.

• Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Leaf, Bark, Flower, Kernel, Mucilage of fruit
• Plant type / Growth Habit: Tree
• Duration: Perennial
• Distribution: Grows in the warmer parts of India, Sri Lanka, Malasia, South China, Java, New Guinea, Philippine Islands and tropical Australia.
• Habitat: Drier (arid and sub-arid), warmer regions

Vernacular Names / Synonyms

1. Scientific name: Cordia dichotoma
2. Sanskrit: Bahuvaraka, Bhukampadaruka, Bhukarbudara, Bhuselu, Bhutadruma, Kshudrashleshmataka, Laghupichhila, Laghushelu, Laghushita, Laghushleshmataka, Madhubhutadruma, Sukshmaphala
3. Hindi: Bhairala, Bhokar, Gondi, Guslasah, Lasora, Lasura, Lessora, Rasalla
4. Assam: Dilk
5. Bengali: Bohari, buhul, boho-dari, bahubara, Bahnaree, Bahuvar
6. Gujarati: Vadagunda
7. Marathi: Bhokar, Bhonkar
8. Kannada: Chikkachalli, Doduchallu
9. Malayalam: Naruvari, Naruviri
10. Punjabi: Lasuda
11. Telugu: Nakkera
12. Tamil: Naruvili, Selu, Sirunaruvili, Vallagu, Vidi, Viri, Virisu, Viriyan, Vidi Maram
13. English: Sebesten Plum, Fragrant manjack, The bird lime tree
14. Lepcha: Ninut
15. Sinhalese: Lolu, Lotu
16. Arabic: Dabk
17. Persian: Sugpistan, Sebestan, Sapistan
18. Myanmar: Thanet
19. Java: Kendal
20. Unani: Sapistan
21. Tehran: Sepistan
22. Sino-Tibetan: Lao
23. Malay: petekat,sekendai
24. Nepali: kalo bohori, bohori
25. Thai: Mandong, manma, phakmong
26. Philippines: Anonang

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Lasora / Sebesten plum, is Cordia dichotoma / Cordia myxa. It belongs to plant family Boraginaceae. Genus Cordia includes hundreds of tree and shrub species growing across the tropical and subtropical areas of America, Africa and Asia. Cordia dichotoma is native of tropical Asia.

Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
• Subclass: Asteridae
• Order: Lamiales
• Family: Boraginaceae – Borage family
• Genus: Cordia L. – cordia
• Species: Cordia dichotoma G. Forst. – fragrant manjac
• Synonyms : Cordia obliqua Willd., Cordia myxa Thw. non Linn., Cordia myxa var. obtiqua Trim., Cordia sebestena Blanco, Cordia blancoi Vidal, Cordia btancoi var. mollis Merr., Cordia leschenaultii DC., Cordia latifolia Roxb.

Constituents of Cordia dichotoma

The fruits contain sugar, gum, β-sitosterol, palmitic, stearic and oleic acids. They have about 70% pulp. In per 100 grams, following nutrients are present:

1. Water 6 g
2. Protein 35 g
3. Calcium 55 mg
4. Phosphorus 275 mg
5. Zinc 2 mg
6. Iron 6 mg
7. Manganese 2 mg
8. Chromium 0.2 mg
9. Copper 1.6 mg
10. Oxalic acid (250mg/100g) is also present in fruits.

The bark contains, tannin, Cathartin, Gallic acid and β-sitosterol. D-glucose, D-xylose, L-rhamnose, D-glucuronic acid, D-arbinose, lactose, and L-fructose among sugars and glycine, leucine, glutamic acid, cystine, alanine, threonine, aspartic acid and proline are also present in plant.

The seed contains per 100 g: water 32 g, fat 46 g and the principal fatty acids palmitic acid, stearic acid, arachidic acid, behenic acid, oleic acid and linoleic acid.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action

Cordia dichotoma is known as Shleshmataka, Picchila, Bhuta Padapa, Dwij Kustsaka and by some other names in Ayurveda. The bark and fruits of the tree are used in treatment of variety of diseases. The bark is especially useful in skin diseases.

Bark

Bark of tree has following properties:

• Rasa (taste on tongue): Madhura (Sweet), Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter), Kashaya (Astringent)
• Guna (Pharmacological Action): Ruksha (Dry), Picchila (Slimy)
• Virya (Action): Shita (Cooling)
• Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Katu (Pungent)

Karma / Action

• Kaphahara: Pacifies Kapha Dosha
• Pittahara: Pacifies Pitta Dosha
• Keshya: Good for hairs
• Grahi: Inspissants, due to stomachic, digestive and heating qualities it dries the fluids of the body
• Krimighna: Destroys worms
• Pachan: Assist in digesting undigested food, but do not increase the appetite
• Vishahara: Destroyer of poison

The decoction of tree bark in dose of 50-100 ml is used as single drug in treatment of

• Raktadosha (Disorders of blood)
• Bahu Vran (Multiple wounds)
• Amadosha (Semi-disgested food metabolites),
• Drkjata masurika (Occular manifestation of small pox)
• Krimi Shula (Colic due to worm infestation)
• Kushtha (Leprosy / diseases of skin), Lutavisha (Spider bite), Masurika (Small pox), Visarpa (Erysepales), Visphota (Blister) and Vrana (Ulcers)

Fruits

The dried fruits of Lasora or Sleshmataka have following properties:

• Rasa (taste on tongue): Kashaya (Astringent), Madhura (Sweet), Tikta (Bitter)
• Guna (Pharmacological Action): Laghu (Light),Ruksha (Dry),
• Virya (Action): Shita (Cooling)
• Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Katu (Pungent)

Karma / Action

• Pittahara: Pacifies Pitta Dosha
• Kaphahara: Pacifies Kapha Dosha
• Grahi: Inspissants are medicines which from their stomachic, digestive and heating qualities dry the fluids of the body.

The Syrup prepared from ripened fruit is used in treatment of

1. Jvara (Fever)
2. Kasa (Cough), Pratisyaya (Coryza)
3. Krmi (Worm infestation)
4. Raktadosha (Disorders of blood)
5. Raktapitta (Bleeding disorder)
6. Sukradaurbalya (Seminal stress)
7. Shvasa (Asthma)
8. Trishna (Thirst)
9. Upadansha (Syphilis / Soft chancre)
10. Vata-pitta-janya Rog (Due to Vata and Pitta dosa)

Important Ayurvedic Formulations

Gojihvadi Kwath Churna

Important Medicinal Properties

Cordia dichotoma fruits are rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

1. Analgesic: Relieve pain.
2. Anti-inflammatory: Reducing inflammation by acting on body mechanisms.
3. Antidote: Counteracts a poison
4. Astringents: Constrict tissues; styptic.
5. Anthelmintic: Antiparasitic, expel Parasitic worms (helminths) and other internal parasites from the body.
6. Antiulcer: Tending to prevent or heal ulcers.
7. Anticatarrhal: Remove excess mucous from the body.
8. Aperient: Used to relieve constipation.
9. Diuretic: Promoting excretion of urine/agent that increases the amount of urine excreted.
10. Demulcent: Relieving inflammation or irritation.
11. Emollient: Soothing and softening effect on the skin or an irritated internal surface.
12. Expectorant: Promotes the secretion of sputum by the air passages, used to treat coughs.
13. Laxative: Tending to stimulate or facilitate evacuation of the bowels.
14. Mucilaginous: Moist, soft, and viscid.

Medicinal Uses of Cordia dichotoma

Cordia dichotoma is used in Ayurveda and Unani system of medicine for treating cold, cough, coryza, fever and skin diseases.

Fruits of the tree are edible, slimy, and heavy to digest. They are given in colic pain, disorders of blood, seminal weakness, and sexual disorders.

Bark of the tree helps in Ama dosha. Ama is the unmetabolised waste that is not utilized by the body. It is sticky, heavy, viscous, slimy, unctuous, wet, cold, sweet and is the root cause of most of diseases in the body, resulting from excess Vayu or Kapha (or both). The bark contain Gallic acid, b-sitosterol and reduces pitta and Kapha. For medicinal purpose the decoction of bark is used.

1. The bark and the unripe fruit are used as a mild tonic.
2. The juice of the bark along with coconut' milk relieves severe colic.
3. The bark is given for dysentery together with Pomegranate rind.
4. The bark is useful in calculousaffections, strangury and catarrh.
5. The decoction of the bark is found useful in dyspepsia and fevers.
6. Externally the moistened bark is applied on boils and tumors. In powder form, it is used as a cure for ulcers in the mouth.
7. The bark is rubbed on teeth to strengthen them. The infusion of bark is used as a gargle.
8. Powdered bark is applied on itchy skin patches on hands and legs.
9. The ripe fruits are sweet, cooling and demulcent.
10. The mucilage in the fruit is used for treating coughs and diseases of the chest, uterus, urethra, etc. In larger doses, it is given for bilious ailments as a laxative.
11. The kernels of the fruit are a good remedy in ringworm. They are powdered, mixed with oil and applied on ringworm.
12. The leaves are useful as an application to ulcers and in headache.
13. The decoction of leaves is used in cough and cold.

Dosage of Cordia dichotoma

9-15 fruits, the decoction of bark can be taken in dose of 50-100 ml.

Contraindications, Interactions, Side-effects and Warnings Cordia dichotoma

The fruit is cooling and heavy.

Leaf extract has anti-implantation activity and works as a natural contraceptive drug.

Ixora pavetta (Syn Ixora Parviflora Vahl), is a small flowering tree found in gardens. It bears white aromatic flowers in bunches. It is known as Nevaari, Nepali, Navmalika and Vaasanti in Ayurveda and Shulundu-kora, Korivi in Siddha system of medicine.

In Ayurveda, Nevaari is described as light, cooling and bitter. Due to cooling property it is given in case of bleeding disorders. It balances Vata-Pitta and Kapha. Nevaari detoxifies blood and used traditionally in whooping cough and Anemia. The roots of tree are bitter, aperient and are prescribed in visceral obstructions. The decoction of bark is given in case of anemia, weakness, toothache, and to kill worms of mouth and teeth. The fomentation made from the leaves is used for hemorrhoid pains.

General Information

• Plant Description: Ixora Parviflora, Vahl. is an evergreen, glabrous tree with 'Khirni tree' like leaves.
• Leaves are coriaceous, hard, shining, sessile, or shortly pedicillate petiolate, oblong or ovate-oblong, with a rounded or nearly cordate base, 4-5 inch long.
• Flowers are white or pink, scented, in ample, nearly sessile, compound trichotomous cymes. Corolla is glabrous, lobes are oblong and filaments are short. Style is very pubescent, tip of Corolla is ellipsoid in bud. Stigma is subcapitate, simple or cleft. Fruit is small, didymous. Seeds are plano-convex.
• Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: root, fruit, flowers, wood oil
• Plant type / Growth Habit: Small, evergreen, glabrous tree
• Duration: Perennial
• Distribution: Western Bengal, Behar, Western, Central and South India
• Habitat: Dry deciduous forests

Vernacular names / Synonyms

• Ayurvedic: Nevaari, Nevaali, Ishwara, Rangan, Nepali, Navmalika, Vaasanti, Vasanti
• Bengali: Rangan
• English: Torch Tree, the Small-flowered Ixora
• Hindi: Koto gandal
• Kannada: Gorivi, korgi, bennugorvi
• Konkan: Kura
• Maharashtra: Kurat, Lokandi, Kurat, narkurat, raikura, guavi-lakri, makri che-jhar
• Oriya: Tellu, Kurwan
• Scientific name: Ixora parviflora
• Santhal: Merom met
• Tamil: Shulundu kora
• Telugu: Korimi Pala, Korivi Pala, Putta Pala, Karipal,Kachipadel, Tadda Pallu

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of NEvari/Vaasanti is Ixora parviflora. It belongs to plant family Rubiaceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
• Subclass: Asteridae
• Order: Rubiales
• Family: Rubiaceae – Madder family
• Genus: Ixora L. – ixora P
• Species: Ixora parviflora

Synonyms

• Ixora pavetta Andrews – torch tree
• Pavetta Indica, Linn.
• Ixora arborea Sm.

Constituents of Ixora parviflora

• The roots contain an aromatic oil, acrid oil, tannin, fatty acids and a white crystalline substance.
• The bark contain a little fatty matter, tannin, red colorings matter.
• The leaves contain ixoral and betasitosterol. Leaves and flowers contain flavonoids—rutin and kaempferol- 3-rutinoside; stems gave a flavone glycoside, chrysin 5-O-beta-Dxylopyranoside.
• The flowers contain colorings matter, an astringent principle, wax and a yellow colouring matter related to quercitrin.
• The seed oil gave capric, lauric, myristic, palmitic, stearic, arachidic, behenic, oleic and linoleic acids.

Important Medicinal Properties

Ixora parviflora is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

• Antiviral: Inhibits viral growth
• Spasmolytic: Relieve spasm of smooth muscle
• Hypotensive: Lowers blood pressure
• Hepatoprotective: Protects liver

Medicinal Uses of Ixora parviflora

1. The flowers of Ixora parviflora, pounded in milk, are given for whooping cough, and at the same time a necklace of the flowers is worn.
2. The decoction of the flowers is given for hemoptysis, catarrhal bronchitis and dysmenorrhea.
3. The root or fruit is used as a medicine by Santals, in case of high colored urine in females. The flowers and bark are used on reddened eyes and eruptions in children.
4. The decoction of the roots is given for dysentery and as a sedative for hiccoughs, nausea, Loss of appetite, fever and gonorrhea.
5. The root is pulverized and mixed with Ginger and rice water, and given in dropsy.
6. The decoction of bark is given for anemia and general debility.
7. Pounded bark with water is given for vomiting.
8. Fruit and root juice is used to stop bleeding after delivery.
9. The paste of leaf is applied on boils.

Dosage of Ixora parviflora

The decoction is taken in dose of 20-50ml. The powder of flower is taken in dose of 1-2 grams.

Adiantum incisum is an aromatic ornamental and medicinal plant. It is a fern found naturally in humidandshadyregions and also grown as indoor plant for its beautiful fronds.

Adiantum incisum is known as Nilakantha-shikhaa, Mayurshikhaa, Vahrishikha in Ayurveda (some other plant species are also referred as Mayur Shikha in Ayurveda). It has astringent, tonic and febrifuge properties. Medicinally, the leaves are used as a cure for cough, fever and chest affection. They are also employed for diabetes and externally the leaf paste is used to cure skin diseases.

Adiantum incisum is used as a substitute for Adiantum capillus-veneris.

General Information

Botanical Description: An erect or spreading fern with cylindrical rhizome, with tufted spikes 5—10 cm long, more or less covered with brown hairs. The rachisandstem are dark brown colour. The lower half of the stem is densely hairy, and sometimes wears narrow pale brown scales.

Frondslinear in outline, 15—30 cm long, simply pinnate, often elongated. leaflets 1.2—1.8 cm long, nearly sessile, upper margin rounded and more or less cut, often deeply and repeatedly, the apex usually blunt, the lower line straight and horizontal, the lower leaflets slightly stalked, coriaceous, veins prominent, the rachis and both surfaces of the frond villose. Sori marginal, roundish or transversely oblong on the edge of the lobes, indusium of the same shape as the sorus formed of the reflexed margin of the fronds bearing the capsules on its underside, veins free.

• Rhizome is brown, soft with variable lengths upto 7 mm in thickness, paleae covering the rhizome, root present. Root is well branched, black colored, thin, wiry and arising in clusters from the underside of the rhizome.
• Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Whole plant
• Plant type / Growth Habit: Forb/herb
• Duration: Perennial
• Distribution: The plains and the lower slopes of the hills in Punjab, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra. Also found in Sri Lanka, Malay Peninsula, South China, tropical Africa, Java, Mauritius
• Habitat: Moist shady places especially on damp old walls and crevices of rocks
• Propagation: Through rhizome and spore

Vernacular names / Synonyms

• Ayurvedic: Mayurashikha, Nilakantha-shikhaa, Vahrishikha (Actiniopteris radiata is equated with Mayurashikha by CCRAS)
• Bengali: Biddapata, Madhussada, Mayurshikha
• English: Maiden Hair Fern, Trailing maiden hair
• Gujarati: Kaalo hansaraaj
• Kerala: Putramchari
• Khumi: Achaichong
• Marma: Jogemuchoi
• Punjab: Adhsaritakajhari
• Scientificname: Adiantum caudatum
• Sinhalese: Thuda-wediya

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Maiden Hair is Adiantum incisum Forsk. Syn: Adiantum caudatum. It belongs to plant family Adiantaceae. Adiantum species are large genus of about 200 species. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Division: Pteridophyta – Ferns
• Class: Filicopsida
• Order: Polypodiales
• Family: Pteridaceae – Maidenhair Fern family
• Genus: Adiantum L. – maidenhair fern
• Species: Adiantum caudatum L. – tailed maidenhair

Synonyms

1. Adiantum incisum Forsk.
2. Adiantum inoisum Forsk.
3. Adiantum flagelliferum Wall.
4. Adiantum hirsutum Bory.
5. Adiantum capillus-veneris

Constituents of Adiantum caudatum

The fern contains triterpenoids (including adiantone, isoadiantone) and flavonoids (including rutin and isoquercetin), hentriacontane, 16-hentriacontanone, adiantone, isoadiantone, β-sitosterol and fernene.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action of Mayurshikha (Whole plant)

Mayur Shikha is astringent and pungent in taste (Rasa), pungent after digestion (Vipaka), and is cool in effect (Virya).It is a Sheet Virya herb. Sheet Virya or Cool potency herb, subdues Pitta (Bile) Vata (Wind) and increases Kapha (Mucus). Sheet Virya herb gives nourishment to body and steadiness. It supports building of body fluids.

1. Rasa (taste on tongue): Kashaya (Astringent), Katu (Pungent),
2. Guna (Pharmacological Action): Guru (Heavy)
3. Virya (Action): Shita (Cooling)
4. Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Katu (Pungent)

Action / Karma

1. Kaphahara: Pacifies Kapha Dosha
2. Kanthya: Good for throat
3. Kapha-pitta shamak: Pacifies Kapha-Pitta
4. Mutral: Diuretic, increase the flow of urine
5. Rasayan: alternative tonics, prevent or remove the effects of age, increase the vigour of healthy persons and cure the ailments of the sick
6. Vishaghna: Poison-destroying
7. Vranaropana: Wound healing

Mayurshikha is used in Ayurveda in treatment of many diseases including:

• Abdominal lump, asthma,
• Burning sensation, Body ache, Cough
• Diphtheria Acute, diarrhea, Dysuria
  Epilepsy, Emaciation, Fever
• Oedema
• Raktapitta/Bleeding disorders
  Raktavikara / Disorders of blood
• Spider bite
  Swar bheda/Hoarseness of voice
  Vertigo, Visarapa/Erysipelas
• Vrana/Ulcer

Medicinal Uses of Adiantum caudatum

Adiantum caudatum is used in the treatment of chest affections, cough, diabetes, fever and skin diseases. The leaves are used in diabetes and as a cure for coughs and fevers. It gives relief in internal heat or fever due to cooling action. As it is diuretic it stimulates urine production and helps in urinary calculus.

Alopecia

Fresh or dried leaves are ground to make paste or powder. 50 g of this paste/powder is mixed in coconut oil 200 ml. This oil is applied on calp to check hair fall.

Chronic cough

A syrup prepared from the leaves is useful.

Diabetes

Juice of fronds is given.

Diseases of the skin

Leaf paste is applied topically.

Emetic

As an emetic, large dose of plant is given.

Fever

The juice of plant is given with pepper.

Liver diseases

Leaf juice or powder is given.

Stop excess bleeding after child birth

Leaf juice (half cup) extracted by smashing is given to mother thrice a day for 2-3 days.

Dosage of Adiantum caudatum

The powder of whole plant is given in dose of 1-3 grams and juice in dose of 10-20ml.

Root powder is given in dose of 3-5 g and decoction in 10-20 ml.

Caution

Plant is emetic in large doses.

Acacia pennata syn. Senegalia pennata (also known as Climbing wattle and Cha-oum) is a large scrambling or climbing shrub, having numerous prickles. It is native to South and South-East Asia and found throughout India upto 1700 meters in the Himalayas. It is a very useful plant with edible leaves.

By J.M.Garg - Own work, GFDL, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=4762769

---

In India, the plant is used for medicinal purpose in Ayurveda and Siddha system of medicine. Acacia pennata is known as Aadaari, Ari, Latakhadira in Ayurveda and Indan, Indu, Iyak Koluntu (tender leaves) in Siddha. The stem and heart-wood are used for leprosy, haemorrhages, wounds and Whole plant for coryza, headache, Leucorrhoea, pain, burns, digestive disorders. The bark of plant are used to pacify aggravated pitta and treat asthma.

General Information

• Plant Description: Acacia pennata is a scandent shrub with scattered numerous prickles.
• Leaves are bipinnately compound. Pinnas are in 8 to 20 pair and leaflets are more than 30 pair. Petiole is 2 cm long, with a plate shaped gland near the middle or the base. Rachis is grooved, obscurely prickled, with glands opposite to two uppermost pairs of pinnae.
• Leaflets are 4 to 8 mm long and 1 mm broad, linear to oblong, tip acute, base truncate, glabrous, margin ciliate, veins obscure, midrib slightly prominent and very close to the distal margin.
• Legume / Pod is straight, flat, thin, dry, strap-shaped, rounded or shortly apiculate, brown, glabrous, 8- 14-seeded.
• Flowers are white or pale-yellow, in globose pedunculate, heads upto half inch diameter arranged in large terminal panicles.
• Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Whole Plant, Stem, Heartwood and leaves
• Plant type / Growth Habit: Large thorny climbing shrub
• Duration: Perennial
• Native/Origin: South-East Asia
• Distribution: Found in the Central and Eastern Himalayas up to an altitude of 5,000 ft., also in Oudh, Bengal, Bihar, and in Central, Western, South India and North-Western Himalayas.
• Habitat: In lowland and medium altitude deciduous bushlands, dry rocky plains

Vernacular names / Synonyms

• Scientific Name: Acacia Pennata (L.) Willd.
• Ayurvedic: Ari Ballikhadira, Khadirapatrika, Sandanika, Silikhadira, Uddala, Lataakhadira
• Bengali: Kuchai, Kuchui
• Dehra Dun: Agia-Bel, Agla, Alay
• English: Climbing Acacia, Climbing Wattle, Feather Acacia, Narrow-Leaved Soap Pod
• Garhwali: Agalai, Agla
• Gujarati: Khervelya, Kherval
• Hindi: Biswal, Latakhadira, Aazi Khair, Aila, Biswul
• Jhunjhunu: Cheela
• Kannada: Siguri, Arar
• Kumauni: Agla, Awal
• Lepcha: Baerzhu, Tol-Rik
• Malayalam: Kattu-Sinikka, Sunna
• Marathi: Aarai Velyakhera, Shemb, Shembati, Shemberti, Shembi, Thembi
• Nepal: Arare, Arfu
• Oriya: Potadontari, Dontari, Nalli-Konti, Pota-Dontari
• Santal: Undar
• Siddha: Indan, Indu, Tender Leaves - Iyak Koluntu
• Tamil: Iya Kozhundu, Indam Budai, Inda Mullu, Indu, Kattindu, Mullu-Chingai, Peychiya-Kai, Singlli, Singai-Mullu
• Telugu: Karusakaya, Korintha
• Thailand: Cha-Om

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Climbing Acacia is Acacia pennata. It belongs to genus Acacia and have leaves with small finely divided leaflets which look like feather or fern. The thorns or sharp curved prickles are also present on the branches. Acacia plants bear small globose flowers and fruits as pods.

Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
• Subclass: Rosidae
• Order: Fabales
• Family: Fabaceae – Pea family
• Genus: Acacia Mill. – acacia
• Species: Acacia pennata

Synonyms

1. Acacia pentagona (Schumach. & Thonn.) Hook. f.
2. Mimosa pennata L.
3. Senegalia pennata
4. Constituents of Acacia pennata

The leaves of plant contain Octadecadienoic, octadecanoic, palmitic and pentadecanoic acids; lupeol, a-spinasterol, beta- sitosterol and tannins.

The bark contains tannin 9%, lupeol and alpha-spinasterol.

Stem yields sitosterol.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action of Acacia pennata Leaf

The leaf of Acacia pennata are known as Adari, Khadiravalli and Ari in Ayurveda and are used in treatment of Jvara (Fever), Raktadosha (Disorder of blood) and Agnimandyan (Digestive impairment).

Adari is astringent, bitter, and pungent in taste (Rasa), drying and light in action (Guna), pungent after digestion (Vipaka), and is cool in effect (Virya).

• Rasa (taste on tongue): Kashaya (Astringent), Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter)
• Guna (Pharmacological Action): Laghu (Light), Ruksha (Dry)
• Virya (Action): Shita (Cooling)
• Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Katu (Pungent)
• Action / Karma
• Kasahara: Reduces cough
• Pittashamak: Pacifies Pitta

It is a Sheet Virya herb. Sheet Virya or Cool potency herb, subdues Pitta (Bile), gives nourishment to body and steadiness and supports building of body fluids.

Medicinal Uses of Acacia pennata

The bark of tree is antibilious and anti-asthmatic. The leaves are stomachic, styptic for Bleeding gum and antiseptic for scalding of urine.

Asthma

Fresh stem sap is sucked daily once till cure.

BleedingGums

In Bleeding from the gums the leaves are chewed with Cumin and sugar

Body pain, headache and fever

The decoction of young leaves is taken.

Digestive disorder of infant

The leaf-juice mixed with milk is given to infants who suffer from indigestion with green stools.

Diarrhea

Decoction of stem bark is given orally.

Rheumatism

Extract of root bark is given orally once in a day.

Whoopingcough

5-6g of stem bark juice is administered daily twice for five days.

Other Non-Medicinal Uses

1. Bark of tree is used to tan fishing nets in Mumbai.
2. The leaves are edible and used to prepare stir-fries, curry, soups etc. In Thailand, the tender shoots and leaves of plant (Cha-Om) are eaten as salad or cooked vegetable.
3. In Myanmar the fruits and stems are used for poisoning fish.
4. Lac is grown on this species in Madhya Pradesh.

Dosage of Acacia pennata

The recommended dosage of leaves is 20 ml.