Shri Dhanwantry Ayurvedic College

Category: Dravyaguna Vigyan Blogs

  • Kalmegha

    Kalmegha

    Botanical Name: Andrographis panicultata

    Family: Acanthaceae

    Identification No: SDACH/HG/008

    Introduction:

    In south India Andrographis panicultata  using as ‘kirata tikta’ and in North Swertia chirata is using.

    Latin name Andrographis = denoting male, andro = male; paniculata = having an inhiorescence the axis of which is divided into branches bearing two or more flowers: panicula= tuft, a loose cluster of flowers

    Names in different Indian languages:

    English: Creat,green chiretta,kalmegh

    Hindi : Kalmegh,kalpaath

    Kannada : Nelaberu

    Malayalam : Nilavepu,kiriyatta

    Sanskrit : Bhunimbah,kiriyatta

    Tamil : Nilavempu

    Telugu : Nelavemu 

    Synonyms:

    Shloka from Bhavprakash Nighantu: 

    किरात तिक्तः कटुकः कषायो मेषशृङ्गजाः। 

    तिक्तः शाकाङ्गः शङ्खिनी भू निम्बश्च कालमेघः॥

    Kaalmegha, Bhuunimba, Bhuuminimbaka, Vishwambharaa, Yavtikta, Kalpanaatha, Kiraata-tikta

    Morphology:

    It is a small herb about 40 cm. to 60 cm.  high. Stem quadrangular lower part is slimy while upper part is hairy.

    Leaves – 5 to 7 cm. long.

    Flowers – small, white or blue (rare) , look like mosquitoes from distance.

    Fruits – bitter.

    Seeds- numerous quadrangular.

    Whole plant is very much bitter. The plant bears flowers and fruits from autumn to winter.

    Properties:

    Guna : laghu, ruksha, tikshna;

    Rasa : tikta

    Vipak : katu;

    Veerya: ushna;

    Karma : Jwaraghna,  vranahara, kushtaghna

    Hepatoprotective, cholinergic, antispasmodic, stomachic, anthelmintic, alterative, blood purifier, febrifuge:

    Indications:

    Sanipatha jwara, kandu, meham, sula, vrana, svasa, kasa, sopham, daham

    Fever, jaundice , Liver disorder , flatulence , diarrhea , colic,  splenomegaly

    Part Used:

    Whole plant

    Dosage:

    Leaf juice 10-15 ml

    Powder 2-4 g

    Decoction 50-100 ml

    External uses:

    Being an appetizer, liver stimulant, laxative and vermifuge, it is used in loss of appetite, liver and spleen enlargement, constipation, jaundice and worms. in fever with rigors, mixture of black pepper and kalamegh is useful. It is also effective in chronic fever and general debility.

    Important research work going on:

    (1) chronic liver diseases

    (2) antipsychotic activity

    (3) arthritis

    (4)hypoglycaemic effect

    (5) blood sugar level

    Amayika Prayoga (Therapeutic Uses) :

    (1) sotha— Kalka of Kirtatiktã and Sunthi are to be taken with Punarnav decoction (V.M.)

    (2) Jvara— Hot infusion of Kiratatikta4sgjen with Dhanyaka leaves (S.B.M.)

    (3) Rakta pitta— Kirata tikta is given along with Chandana

    (C.S.Ci. 4).

    IUCN Status 

    Least Concern (LC). 

    Research Updates (Past 5 Years) 

    1. Antiviral Activity (2020): Andrographolide showed efficacy against dengue and respiratory viruses. 

    2. Hepatoprotective (2021): Clinical trials confirmed liver-protective effects in hepatitis patients. 

    3. Anti-inflammatory (2022): Studied for reducing cytokine storms in COVID-19. 

     

    About Kalmegha

    Botanical Name

    Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) Nees

    Family

    Acanthaceae

    Identification No.

    SDACH/HG/008

    Parts Used

    India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and other tropical and subtropical regions

    Habitat

    India, Sri Lanka, Nepal

    IUCN Status

    Not Evaluated

    Plant Photos

    Ayurvedic Properties

    Rasa

    Tikta (Bitter)

    Guna

    Laghu (Light), Ruksha (Dry)

    Virya

    Shita (Cooling)

    Vipãka

    Katu (Pungent)

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  • Kumari

    Kumari

    Kumari

    Botanical Name: Cassia fistula Linn.

    Family: Caesalpiniaceae

    Identification No.: SDACH/HG/001

    Introduction: In Vedic literature the dried branches of Aragvadha are used for ritual performance Several external applications containing Aragvadha are mentioned in  Ayurveda ( psoriasis etc.)

    Scientific classification: Sennas belong to the subfamily Caesalpinioideae, family Fabaceae (formerly Leguminosae). Alexandrian senna is classified as Cassia acutifolia. The species from which tinnivelly, or Indian senna, is obtained is classified as Cassia angustifolia

    Names in different Indian languages:

    English : Indian Laburnum,Purging Cassia,Golden Shower

    Hindi: Amaltas,girimala

    Kannada: Phallus,kakke,kakke mara

    Malayalam: Konna,kanikonna

    Sanskrit: Aaragvadha

    Tamil: Sarakkonrai

    Telugu: Rela,kondrakaya,aragvadamu

    Synonyms:

    Chaturaangula, Kritamaala, Kritmaalaka, Karnikaara, Shampaaka, Praagraha, Raajvrksha, Nripapaadapa, Raajadruma, Vyaadhighaataka, Aarevata.

    Cassia rhombifolia Roxb

    Classification according to Charaka, Susrutha & Vagbhata:

    Charaka: Kusthaghna, Kandüghna, Tiktaskandha, Virechana

    Susrutha: Aragvadhadi, Syamadi, Slesmasamsamana, Adhobhagahara

    Vagbhata: Aragvadhãdi, syãmadi

     Varieties & adulterants – (CV – controversy, AD – adulterants):

    1.Karnikara

    2.Pãlevatam

    3. Madhura (sweet)

    4. Amla (sour)

    5. praravata-  Psidium guyava

    6. Garcinia mangostan.

    Cassia roxburghii – AD

    Morphology:

    It is moderate-sized tree, 10-12 m. in height.

    Bark- greenish-grey, smooth when young then brick-red.

    Leaves- paripinnate, 4-8 pairs, ovate, acute, bright green, glabrous above, silvery pubescent beneath. 10-15 cm long

    Leaflets 4-8 pairs, about 2-5 cm, acuminate, ovate-lanceolate.

    Flowers- in lax pendulous racemes, yellow, fragrant.

    Pods- cylindrical, pendulous, indehiscent, 25-30 cm long and 2-3.0 cm diam.

    Seeds- numerous, small, flat, smooth, yellowish-grey

    surrounded by black pulp when ripen pulp will be sweet.

    (Flowers in March-May and fruits in May).

    Habitat  & Distribution:

    All over India, Srilanka, Nepal

    Chemical composition:

    Anthraquinone glycosides, sennosides A and B, rhein

    Pulp glucose 60%, glutin. pectin, dyes, calcium oxalate. minerals. gum and water.

    Seeds- sugars, galactomannan

    Flowers- fistulin, leucopelargonidin tetrarner, kaempfer oil

    Pods- fistulic acid  Bark & Heart wood- barbl Oil, fistucacidin, etc.

     Leaves- Rhein, sennosides A & B

    Properties:

    Rasa :  Madhura

    Guna : Madura, Guru, Snigdha

    Virya : Sita

    (Usna: Dhanvañtari Nighandu)

    Vipãka: Madhura

     Karma : Kapha-pittahara , kushtaghna, arsoghna, vrana hara

    Laxative, blood purifier, febrifugal, astringent, antibilious.

    Indications:

     Kustha, Prameha, Hrdroga, Amavãta, Gandamãlã, Kãmalã, Udara, Udãvarta, Vatarakta, Sula, Jvara

    Constipation, colic, chlorosis and urinary disorders,gout, skin disease, psoriasis, fever

    External uses:

     It is anti-inflammatory,analgesic.

    The pulp and leaf paste are used in nodular oedema & gout. rheumatoid arthritis etc.

    The decoction is used for gargling in diseases of oral cavity and throat,

    Leaf paste is used in skin disease and itching.

    Internal uses:

    Nervous system: It is analgesic by vatahara property, so useful in vata diseases.

    Digestive system: It is bitter so improves taste, It is a liver stimulant and purgative by snigtha properties. It is a mild purgative drug and is useful in constipation and jaundice.

    Circulatory system: It is cardioprotective, antiinflammatory, purifies blood so useful in heart disease, haemorrhagic ditorders, gout and swellings.

    Respiratory system: As it is madhur, snigdha, removes kapha and soothes internal organs by mridu property, in dry cough and dyspnoea flower’s avaleha is given.

    Urinary system: Diuretic by sheeta properly. It  soothes the urinary tract. Seeds are antidiabetic

    Skin: Kushthaghna and refrigerant, so used in skin disease and burning.

    Temperature: It is antipyretic, so used in fever and purgation. Its bitter taste works in digestion and is pittashamak. Bark of root is used in fever.

    Srotogamitwa:

    Dosha : Pitta. kaphaghatna ,liver stimulant

    Mala: Purgative.

    Parts used: 

    Root bark, leaves, flowers,fruit pulp

    Dosage:

    Decoction of root bark 75-100 ml.

     Flower paste 6-10 g

    Important Yogas or Formulations:

    Aragvadhadi taila, Arngvadhadi leha, Aragvadharishta..

    Therapeutic Uses:

    1. Kãmalã- Aragvadha (fruit pulp) is given with the juice of sugarcane or vidari or Amalaki after fortifying with Trikatu. (A.H.)

    2. Gandamãlã- Root bark of Aragvadhã is grinded with rice-water and used for Nasya and lepa (V.M.)

    3. Kustha- Leaves of Aragvadhä are made into paste with Amãlaka and applied externally.

    IUCN Status  – Least Concern (Not threatened)

    Research Updates (Past 5 Years)

    1. Antidiabetic Activity (2021): Study confirmed hypoglycemic effect of C. fistula pulp extract.

    2. Antimicrobial (2022): Pod extract showed efficacy against Staphylococcus aureus.

    3. Hepatoprotective (2023): Bark extract reduced liver toxicity in animal models.

    About Kumari

    Botanical Name

    Aloe vera (L.) Burm.f.

    Family

    Asphodelaceae (formerly Liliaceae)

    Identification No.

    SDACH/HG/007

    Parts Used

    Leaf pulp, Leaf juice

    Habitat

    India and other tropical and subtropical regions

    IUCN Status

    Not Evaluated

    Plant Photos

    Ayurvedic Kumari

    Rasa

    Tikta (Bitter), Madhura (Sweet)

    Guna

    Guru (Heavy), Snigdha (Unctuous), Picchila (Slimy)

    Virya

    Shita (Cooling)

    Vipãka

    Katu (Pungent)

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  • Khadira

    Khadira

    Khadira

    Botanical Name: Acacia catechu Willd

    Family: Mimosaceae

    Identification No.- SDACH/HG/006

    Introduction:

    Acacias belong to the subfamily Mimosoideae of the family Fabaceae (formerly Leguminosae).  According to Rig-Veda, Khadira is one of the important trees both of rituals and medicinal. Its heartwood is considered to be very strong. Along with other therapeutic applications. Dried pieces of heartwood in inflammations, skin diseases and urinary disorders, recommends its use as a blood purifier, in diseases caused by lipid disorders.

    Names in different Indian languages:

    English: Cutch tree, Catechu

    Hindi: Khaira

    Kannada: Kalu

    Malayalam: Karinnali

    Sanskrit: Khadirah

    Tamil: Karukali, Kalippakku, Kadiram, Katthakkaambu, Kaasukkatti

    Telugu: Podalianu

    Unani: Khair, Kaat, Katthaa (heartwood extract).

    Synonyms:

    Khadira, Kadara, Somavalka, Gaayatri, Dantdhaavan, Kantaki, Raktasaara (heartwood extract), Bãlapatra, Yajñiya

    Classification according to Charaka, Susrutha & Vagbhata:

    Charaka: Kusthaghna, Udardaprasamana, Kasãya skandha

    Susrutha: Sãlasãrãdi

    Vagbhata: Asanãdi

    Varieties & adulterants – (CV – controversy, AD – adulterants) :

    1.Khadira – A. suma Buch

    2. Kadara – A. catechuoides.

    3. Arimeda.

    4.Tamrakantaka.

    5.Vitkhadira

    6.Valli Khadira

    7.Irimeda

     8. A.sundra

     9. Sömavalka

    10. White.

    11 . Blackish; brown – Externally blackish brown, soft and easily breakable. Used in medicine:

    12. Brown – Used for chewing in betal leaves.

    13 . Black – Not good for consumption, of bad quality

    Morphology:

    It is a moderate-sized tree with 10-12 m. height.

    Bark- dark grayish-brown, nearly 1.5 cm in thickness, exfoliating in long narrow strips. Sapwood yellowish white but heartwood red.

    Leaves- pinnate with a pair of recurred prickles at base of rachis; pinnate 40-80; leaflets 60-100, small, ligulae.

    Flowers- pale yellow in cylindrical—spikes;

    Fruits: Flat brown pods, glabrous, lustrous, straight, strap-shaped, dark brown.

    Seeds: 4-8 per

    (Flowers in rainy season and fruits in winter)

    Distribution & Habitat:

    In drier regions of sub-Himalayan tract upto 1500 m. (Punjab to north-eastern states) Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.

    Chemical constituents:

    Heart wood- catechin, catechutannic acid,epicatechin, Afzelchin, gossypetin, procyanidin , taxifolin, taxifolin , phlobatannins including catechutannic acid,  flavonoids- quercetin, quercitrin, fisetin, cyanidanol

    Gum- L-arabinose, D-galactose, D-rhamnose

    Astringent and antibacterial properties of catechu result from its high tannin content. Gambrine in pale catechu shows hypotensive effects. Fisetin in black catechu and (+)- catechin in black and pale catechu may protect against liver damage

    Properties:

    Rasa: Tikta, Kasaya

    Guna: Laghu, Ruksa

    Virya: sita

    Vipãka : Katu

    Karma : Kapha-pittahara, Medoghna, Dipana, Dantya

    Srotogamitva:

    Dosha: Reduces pitta, kapha.

    Dhatu : Rakta, meda (anaemia), shukra.

    Mala : Urine.

    Prabhav : Kushthaghna.

    Indication:

    Kandu, Kãsa, Krimi, Prameha, Jvara, svitra, sotha, Pãndu, Vrana, Dañta röga and Arso roga  samana

    Melancholia, conjunctivitis, astringent, acrid, antiseptic, haemostatic, anemia, diabetes, splenomegaly, anti-helmintic, luecoderma

    Seed extract—hypoglycaemic to normal albino rats, but not effective in diabetic rats. The saline extract of seeds shows leuco-agglutinating activity against leukaemic cells. It agglutinates white cells from patients with different types of leukaemia. The activity is inhibited by simple sugars. Root extract shows antibacterial and fungicidal activity

    Part used:

    Stem bark heartwood, flowers

    Dosage:

    Powder of bark 2-4 g, bark decoction 50-100 ml, heart wood -1-2g.

     

    External uses:

    Stambhana and kushthaghna. Being astringent and haemostatic, powder is used in wound healing and in dental conditions.  In leprosy, bathing with the decoction of khadira is advised . Used for oral hygienic and pharyngeal ulcers.

    Internal uses:

    Digestive system: Improves taste, constipative , useful in anorexia, diarrhoea and intestinal parasites. 

    Circulatory system: Due to its properties, reduces oedema. Juice of the fresh bark is used as blood purifier.

    Respiratory system: Reduces kapha by tikta, kashaya rasas. Useful in kapha-kasa. A lozenge prepared from khadir and cinnamonum is used for clearing the throat.

    Urinary system : Kaphaghna and reduces urine output so used in diabetes.

    Reproductive system : it used as a uterine tonic. It is also used in leucorrhoea

    Skin: Kushthaghna and kandughna so used in all skin diseases and intense itching.

    Temperature: Antipyretic being tikta and sheeta. Used in chronic fever. Satmikaran :By reducing medha and other liquid dhatus, it overcomes lethargy.

    Important Yogas  or  Formulations:

    Khadirãdi väti, Khadirãrista, Khadirãdi tailam

    Amayika Prayoga (Therapeutic Uses) 

    (1) Bhagañdhara- Decoction of Khadira and Triphala is enriched with ghee and powder of  Vidanga is given orally (A.Sam.)

    (2) Svitra- Internal and external use of Khadira Kasaya is useful (C.S.Ci.7).

    (3) Slipada- Kalka of Khadira sara, Bijasara, sãla sara is mixed with honey and given with Gomütra in the morning. (G.N.)   

    IUCN Status 

    – Least Concern (widely available but habitat loss noted). 

    Research Updates (Past 5 Years) 

    1. 2020: Antimicrobial study confirmed efficacy against oral pathogens. 

    2. 2021:Clinical trial on Khadirarishta showed improvement in psoriasis. 

    3. 2022: Antioxidant properties validated in catechu extract.

     

    About Khadira

    Botanical Name

    Acacia catechu (L.f.) Willd.

    Family

    Fabaceae (formerly Caesalpiniaceae)

    Identification No.

    SDACH/HG/006

    Parts Used

    Heartwood, Bark

    Habitat

    India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka

    IUCN Status

    Least Concern

    Plant Photos

    Ayurvedic Khadira

    Rasa

    Tikta (Bitter), Kashaya (Astringent)

    Guna

    Laghu (Light), Ruksha (Dry)

    Virya

    Shita (Cooling)

    Vipãka

    Katu (Pungent)

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  • Ashoka

    Ashoka

    Ashoka

    Botanical Name: Saraca asoca (Roxb.) DeWilde.

    Family : Caesalpiniaceae

    Identification No : SDACH/HG/004

    Introduction: We can see a clear description from Atharva veda parisita. This plant is known as friend of female also a good uterine tonic.

    Synonyms: Kañkeli, Madhu puspa, Rakta pallava, Vanjulah, Hema puspa, Gatasoka, Ashoka, Ashoku, Hempushpa, Taamrapallava, Pindapushpa, Gandhapushpa, Saraca indica auct. non L

    Classification according to Charaka, Susrutha & Vagbhata:

    Charaka: Kasãya skañdha,Vedanãsthapana

    Susrutha: Rodhrãdi

    Vagbhata:  Rodhrãdi

    Varieties & adulterants – (CV – controversy, AD – adulterants):

    It is being adulterated with the barks Polyalthia longifolia , Shorea robusta , Bauhinia variegate Cynometra travancorica – AD

    Morphology:

    It is a small ever green tree with drooping glabrous branches, 8-10 m. in height. Bark- with warty surface, dark-brown to grey or almost black

    Leaves pinnate, 10-20 cm. long; leaflets 2-3 pairs, rigidly subcoriaceous, oblong or oblong- lanceolate.

    Flowers- in dense axillary corymbs, fragrant, orange or orange-yellow, finally turning vermillion-red. Fruits- pods, flat, oblong, woody, about 8 x 20 cm.

    Seeds- 4-8, ellipsoid oblong, compressed (Flowers in March-April and fruits in August- September).

    Distribution & Habitat:

    All over India, abundant in South India. The tree is found in abundance in Bengal and Burma. Cultivated about 700 m. above height

    Chemical constituents:

    Apigenin, O-beta-D-glucoside, cyaniding, diglucoside, kaempferol, pelargonidin-, diglucoside, quercetin, epicatechol, leucocyanidin, leucopelargonidin, procyanidin, derivatives, methyl-and ethylcholesterol, rhamnoside, amyrin, ceryl alcohol and beta-sitosterol.

    Properties:

    Rasa : Kasaya, Tikta

    Guna : Laghu, Rüksa

    Virya : Sita

    Vipãka : Katu

    Karma :

    Pittahara, Hrdya, Varnya, Grãhi, uterine tonic, constipating, blood purifier.

    Srotogamitva:

    Dosha : Rapha, pittä kshayakarak.

    Dhatus : Rakta (haemostasis), meda, rasayana. Mala : Purisha ( astringent), diuretic.

    Organ : Uterus Ashoka is ‘specifically used for rakta-pradara is called a friend of women

    Indication:

    Gulma, udavartha,    Apaci, Trisnã, Dãha, Krimi, Visaroga, Hrdroga, Rakta Pradara, Mutraghata, Asmari fever, burning sensation, visceromegaly, colic, leucorrhoea, piles, menorrhagia.

    Part used: Stem bark, seeds, root

    Dosage:

    Leaf juice 10-15 ml Powder 2-4 g

    Decoction 50-100 ml

     

    External uses:

    The bark has analgesic and antidotal properties. Hence its paste is used in pains and  poisoning for local application.

    Internal uses:

    Nervous system : It has effect on the nerves and therefore is used in painful vata disorders.

    Digestive system : Due to its astringent. anthetmintic and antidyspeptic prospective & it is useful in diarrhoea, dysentery, helminthiasis

    Circulatory system It has haemostatic. blood purifying and antioedematous effects Hence 1t is used in diseases of the blood and oedema, its lowers are used in internal bleeding.

    Reproductive system : It strengthens the muscles of the uterus and reduces uterine discharge and pain in the uterus and so it is useful in rnenorrhagia. leucorrheoa and dysrnenorrheoa Since the decoction of the bark acts as a tonic for the endometrium of the uterus, it is useful in many diseases of the uterus.

    Urinary system : By virtue of its diuretic property, it is useful in dysuria and calculi, It prevents the formation of a calculus.

    Temperature : It reduces the burning sensation frequently associated with pyrexia

    Important Yogas or Formulations:

    Asokaghrtam, Ashokarishta.

    Amayika Prayoga(Therapeutic Uses):

    1. Rakta Pradara- Cold milk boiled with the decoction of Asoka bark is useful.

    2. Asmari-Seed powder of Asoka is administered with water.

    IUCN Status 

    Vulnerable (Due to overharvesting and habitat loss). 

    Research Updates (Past 5 Years) 

    1. 2020: Study on Ashoka bark’s efficacy in PCOS (Journal of Ayurveda). 

    2. 2021: Clinical trial for dysmenorrhea (Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge). 

    3. 2022: Phytochemical analysis revealing new flavonoids (Phytochemistry Reports). 

     

    About Ashoka

    Botanical Name

    Saraca asoca (Roxb.) Willd.

    Family

    Fabaceae (formerly Caesalpiniaceae)

    Identification No.

    SDACH/HG/004

    Parts Used

    Bark, Leaves, Flowers, Seeds

    Habitat

    India, Sri Lanka, Nepal

    IUCN Status

    Not Evaluated

    Plant Photos

    Ayurvedic Properties

    Rasa

    Madhura

    Guna

    Guru (Heavy), Snigdha (Unctuous)

    Virya

    Shita (Cooling)

    Vipãka

    Madhura (Sweet)

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  • Brahmi

    Brahmi

    Brahmi

    Botanical Name: Bacopa monnieri (Linn.) Penn

    Family: Scrophulariaceae

    Identification No: SDACH/HG/005

    Introduction:

    The controversy on Brãhmi and Mandükaparni is never ending. both used as brain tonic. Usually South Indians Bacopa as brahmi, North Indians using Centella asiatica

    Names in different Indian languages:

    Hindi: Brahmi,jalnim

    Telugu: Sambranicettu

    Tamil: Nirpirami

    English: Thyme leaved gratiola

    Marathi: Brahmi

    Bengali: Brahmi

    Kanada: Nirbrahmi

    Malayalam: Brahmi

    Unani: Brahmi

    Sanskrit: Brahmi,sarasvati

    Synonyms:

    Aindri, Nirbraahmi, Kapotavankaa, Bhaarati, Darduradalaa, Matsyaakshaka, Shaaluraparni, Mandukaparni

    Herpestis monnieria (Linn.) H. B. & K.,Moniera cuneifolia Michx

    Classification according to Charaka, Susrutha & Vagbhata:

    Charaka: Prajasthapana

     Varieties & adulterants – (CV – controversy, AD – adulterants):

    Centella asiatica  [CV]

    Tamarachuda patika – a medya drug

    Morphology:

    A glabrous, punctate. succulent creeping annual herb.

    Leaves- simple, sessile, obovate or spathulate, entire, fleshy

    Flowers- solitary. axillary, white; bracteoles linear.

    Fruits- ovoid, acute, acute capsules included in the persistent calyx.

    Flowers and fruits almost throughout the year (mainly between February—April)

    Habitat  & Distribution:

    Common in moist places throughout India

    Chemical composition:

    monnierin, hersaponin, bacosides A and B. Bacosides A and B , Ascorbic acid, nicotinic acid, brahmine, herpestine. alanine,

    hentri-acontane, octacosane. monnierin (saponin), hersaponin, bacoside A & B, bacogenins A1-A4 (Sapogenins). 13-sitosterol etc.

    Properties:

    Rasa: Tikta, Kasäya

    Guna:  Laghu

    Virya: sita

    Vipaka:  Madhura

    Karma: Kapha-pitta hara, Medhya, Rasãyana , kandughna,arsoghna, vranahara

    Cooling, laxative, intellect promoting, anodyne, carminative, digestive, anti inflammatory, depurative, bronchodilator, diuretic, cardiotonic, febrifuge

    Part Used: Whole plant

    Dosage:  Fresh juice 10-20 ml

    Indications:

    Apasmãra, Prameha, Kustha, Pandu, Prameha, Sotha, Jvara, Kãsa,gulma

    neuralgia, epilepsy, insanity, insomnia, dementia,  tumors, ulcers, splenomegaly, ascites, constipation, sterility.

    Amayika Prayoga (Therapeutic Uses) 

    Internal uses:

    Nervous system : Brahmi is a valuable plant for brain and entire nervous system. Mania and epilepsy are two conditions which require brahmi. It also helps in depression and mental retardation. by enhancing intelligence.

    Digestive system Brahmi is slightly astringent and hence useful in diarrhea. Brahmi may suppress appetite, hence deepan medicines should be given along with it.

    Respiratory system : Specially in children, for cold and cough. 1 teaspoonful of brahmi juice is given to induce vomiting and gives relief. When hoarseness of voice results from excessive talking, pills made from the leaves of brahmi. vasa, pippali. haritaki and vacha are chewed which gives relief.

    Cardiovascular system: In small doses, it has cardiotonic property, It leads to an increase in blood pressure.

    Urinary system : Diuretic.

    Temperature : In Srilanka, brahmi is used for fever,

    Satmikaran : Brahmi is a brain tonic. It enhances memory, intelligence and longevity..

    Srotogamitwa:

    Dosha : Vataghna, pittaghna, kaphaghna, tridoshanashak

    Dhatu: Meda (demulcent). strengthens all seven dhatus (anaemia, urinary disorders).

    Mala : Urine (diuretic), keshya (hair growth).

    Prabhava : Antidote.

    Important Yogas or Formations:

    Brahmi prash: Saraswatarishta, Brahmighmta, Brahmitaila. Brãhmi rasãyana, Brãhmighrta

    IUCN Status

    Least Concern (Widespread and not threatened) 

    Research Updates (Past 5 Years) 

    1. 2020 Study (J. Ethnopharmacol): Confirmed neuroprotective effects of Bacosides in Alzheimer’s disease. 

    2. 2021 Study (Phytomedicine): Brahmi extract improved cognitive function in ADHD patients. 

    3. 2022 Study (Ayurveda Integr Med): Showed anti-anxiety effects comparable to modern anxiolytics.

     

    About Brahmi

    Botanical Name

    Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst.

    Family

    Plantaginaceae

    Identification No.

    SDACH/HG/005

    Parts Used

    Whole plant

    Habitat

    Moist and marshy areas, wetlands, near ponds and streams

    IUCN Status

    Least Concern

    Plant Photos

    Ayurvedic Properties

    Rasa

    Tikta, Kashaya

    Guna

    Laghu, Sara

    Virya

    Shita

    Vipãka

    Madhura

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  • Chitraka

    Chitraka

    Chitraka

    Botanical Name: Plumbago zeylanica Linn.

    Family: Plumbaginaceae

    Identification No.- SDACH/HG/003 

    Introduction: If this drug given in pregnancy, it causes irritation of pelvic organs which leads to abortion. Present research reveals that plumbagin obtained of P. zeylanica is a potent cytotoxic/anti-cancer agent.

    Names in different Indian languages:

    Hindi: Chitraka

    Telugu: Chitramulamu

    Tamil : Chittiri

    English: Ceylon Leadwort,Leadwort.

    Gujrati : chitrok

    Marathi: Chitramul

    Kanada: Kempucitramula.

    Malayalam: Vella Kotuveli

    Sanskrit: Sveta Chitraka

    Synonyms:

    “चित्रकः पावकः साध्यो दहनो वह्निरुच्यते। 

     कटुस्तीक्ष्णोष्णवीर्योऽग्निदीपनः पाचनः सरः॥” 

    (Bhavaprakasha Nighantu, Haritakyadi Varga, Shloka 1) 

    Chitraka, Agni, Vahni, Jvalanaakhya, Krshaanu, Hutaasha, Dahana, Sikhi.

    Classification according to Charaka, Susrutha & Vagbhata:

    Charaka: Dipaniya, sulapraamana, Arsoghna, Lekhaniya

    Susrutha: Pippalyãdi, Mustãdi, Amalakyãdi, Varunãdi

    Vagbhata: Pippalyãdi, Mustãdi, Varunadi, Aragvadhadi

    Varieties & adulterants – (CV – controversy, AD – adulterants):

    1. Sveta

    2. Pita

    3. Asita

    4. P. rosea

    5. P. capensis

    6. P. indica

    7. P. auriculata

    Morphology:

    A perennial herb with 0.5-1.5 m long stems, some what woody, spreading, glabrous.

    Leaves- simple, alternate, oblong, thin, 3.5- 7.5x 2-4 cm, ovate, subacute, entire, glabrous, reticulately veined, petiole short, amplexicaul at the base.

    Flowers- white, in elongate spikes; rachis glandular, striate. Calyx 1-1.5 cm. long, narrowly tubular, densely covered with stalked glands. Corolla white, slender; tube 2-2.5 cm long.

    Fruit- Capsule, oblong, pointed; pericarp thin below, thick and hardened above.

    Distribution & Habitat:

    Found throughout India and sometime cultivated.

    Chemical composition :

    Pungent, having yellow and irritant principle called as plumbagin, 91%.

    Active principle does not dissolve in cold water. In boiling water or ‘alcohol it dissolves easily.

    Chitranone, plumbagin, lumbagin, droserone, elliptinofle, isozeylinone,isozeylan-one, zeylanone and zeylinone, maritone, plumbagic acid, dihydrosterone, beta sitosterol etc.

    Properties:

    Rasa : Katu

    Guna : Laghu, Rüksa, Tiksna Virya : Usna

    Vipãka : Katu

    Karma : vata kapha hara, dipana, pacana, grahi,rasayana, arosaghna

    Anti inflammatory, digestive, narcotic, gastric & nerve stimulant, rejuvenating

    Indication:

    Arsas, Grahani,Krimi,Udara, kusta,vrana, i, sula, pandu, kasa

    cough, bronchitis, helminthiasis, haemorrhoids, fever, leucoderma, scabies, odontalgia, skin disease,.

    Parts used: Root.

    Dosage: 2 to 4 gm. High dose causes burning and intoxication.

    Amayika Prayoga (Therapeutic Uses) 

    External

    – Paste applied in skin diseases (eczema, leukoderma). 

    – Used in arthritis (as oil or poultice). 

    Internal:

    – Ama dosha (Toxin accumulation), Agnimandya (Low digestion), Krimi (Worm infestation). 

     

    Important Yogas or Formulations:

    Chitrakadi gutika, Chitrakharitaki, Chitrak ghrit, Chitrakadi churna, Trimad churna

    Improper use of chitrak causes toxicity. Higher dose of it creates irritant and intoxicant effects. It causes burning of tongue; throat, stomach and all over the body, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, dysuria, burning micturation. Pulse becomes-feeble and skin becomes wrinkled and cold:

    Srotogamitva:

    Dosha : Alleviates vata, kapha and eliminates pitta (gives yellow colour to the stools). Dhatu : Rakta, meda (vitiligo)

    IUCN Status 

    Least Concern (Wild populations stable). 

    Research Updates (Past 5 Years) 

    1. 2021: Study in Journal of Ethnopharmacology confirmed anti-inflammatory effects of plumbagin. 

    2. 2022: Phytotherapy Research highlighted its hepatoprotective properties. 

    3. 2023: Clinical trial (AYUSH) showed efficacy in IBS management.

    About Chitraka

    Botanical Name

    Plumbago zeylanica Linn.

    Family

    Plumbaginaceae

    Identification No.

    SDACH/HG/003

    Parts Used

    Root

    Habitat

    India, Sri Lanka, tropical Asia

    IUCN Status

    Least Concern

    Plant Photos

    Ayurvedic Properties

    Rasa

    Katu

    Guna

    Laghu, Ruksha, Tikshna

    Virya

    Ushna

    Vipãka

    Katu

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  • Ashwagandha

    Ashwagandha

    Ashwagandha

    Botanical Name: Withania somnifera (Linn.) Dunal

    Family: Solanaceae

    Identification No: SDACH/HG/002

    Introduction: Asvagandha root juice is given as Nasya to achieve conception. Now a days scientists believe that  the cultivated variety of withania have different than naturally occurring.

    Names in different Indian languages :

    English: Winter Cherry Hindi: Asgandha,punir

    Kannada: Viremaddinagaddi, kiremallinagida Malayalam: Amukkuram

    Sanskrit: Asvagandha,varahakarni Tamil: Amukkira, amukkirakkilangu

    Telugu: Vajigandha,pannirugadda,pulivendramu

    Synonyms:

    “वाजिगन्धा वराहकर्णी बलदा कुष्ठगन्धिनी।” 

    Hayagandhaa, Ashwakanda, Gandharvagandhaa, Turaga, Turagagandhaa, Turangagandhaa, Vaajigandhaa, Gokarnaa, Vrishaa, Varaahakarni, Varadaa, Balyaa, Vaajikari.

    Withania ashwagandha Kaul (cultivated var.)

    Withania somnifera (Linn.) Dunal (Chemotype I, II, III: Israele.)

    Classification according to Charaka, Susrutha & Vagbhata:

    Charaka: Brmhaniya, Madhuraskandha

    Varieties & adulterants – (CV – controversy, AD – adulterants)

    1. W. somnifera
    2. W. coagulans.
    3. Nagori
    4. WS-27-7 – cultivated
    5. WS-23-55- cultivated
    6. WS – 10 – 28- cultivated

    Morphology:

    It is a under shrub, erect stem, 0.5-2 m high. Clothed with minute hairy tomentum.

    Leaves—simple, alternate, entire, ovate up to 10 cm long. subacute;

    Flowers— axillary, sessile or shortly pedicled, fascicled or solitary, hermaphrodite; calyx campanulate, acutely 5-6-toothed, fruit-calyx inflated, larger than the berry; corolla campanulate, 3-6 lobed, short, greenish or lurid yellow; stamens attached at the base of corolla.

    Fruits— berries, globose. Seeds— many, discoid.

    Habitat  & Distribution:

    Cultivated, dry places.

    Chemical constituents:

    withananine, withananinine, pseudo-withanine, somnine, somniferine, somniferinine, Withaferin, withanone, somnirol, nicotine withanone, withanolide WS-1, withanolide A to Y; somnirol, somnitol; withasomniferin A, nicotine, preudotropine tropine, solasodifle, withasomnifle, sitoindosides VII-X, sominone, sominolide

    Properties:

    Rasa : Katu,Tikta,kashaya Guna : Laghu, snighta Virya : Usna

    Vipãka : Katu

    Karma: Kapha-vãtahara,  Sukrakara, Rasayana, Balya anti-inflammatory, Hepatoprotective, antibacteria , sedative, hypnotic,diuretic, Antibacterial, antitumour, aphrodisiac

    Srotogamitva:

    Dosha : vatha hara

    Dhatu :meda, sukra

    Mala : mutrala

    Organ : testis

    Indication:

    Sopha, Svitra, Ksaya, Jvara, Chardi, Kustha, Kandu, Krmi, Sonitha sukla, Leucoderma, Insomnia, Nerve Disorder, Ulcer, Constipation, Insomnia

     

    Part used: Root, leaves

    Dosage:

    Leaf juice 10-15 ml

    Powder 2-4 g

    Decoction 50-100 ml

    External uses: It reduces oedema and pain, that is why leaves or root paste is applied on enlarged cervical glands or swelling of other glands. In vata diseases and weakness, oil massage is done. The juice of ashwagandha leaves is used as eardrops in ear discharge.

    Internal uses:

    Nervous system: As it is a sedative and nervine tonic, it helps in atonic nerves, fainting, giddiness and insomnia.

    Digestive system : The bark powder is appetizer. carminative and anthelmintic and hence is used in abdominal pain, constipation and worms.

    Circulatory system: It has an effect on the heart, purifies the blood and reduces oedema. So it is used for the weakness of heart, blood disorders and oedema. Its decoction is used in rheumatoid arthritis.

    Respiratory system : It is an expectorant and has antiasthmatic property due to which it is useful in cough. Ashwagandha ash along with ghee and honey is effective in asthma, If phlegm is thin, it is used in the form of ash or its alkaline extract is used. Decoction of bark should be given in low dose for cough and asthma. It is also used as a tonic in the above conditions.

    Reproductive system : Ashwagandha is well known for its aphrodisiac property. It is used in semen disorders and leucorrhoea caused due to endometritis. A mixture of 5 g. of ashwagandha powder +  10 gms of ghee + 250 ml milk + sugar is a good tonic, nutritious and also aphrodisiac. It completely cures puerperal backache.

    Urinary system: It is diuretic and so used in oliguria or anurea. It is used to strengthen meda dhatu.

    Skin: It is used in vitiligo and other skin diseases, blisters heal when black ashes ‘of the roots are applied on them.

    Important Yogas or Formulations:

    Ashwagandhadi churna, Ashwagandha rasayana, Ashwagandharishta, Maharasanadi, Sukumarghrut, Saubhagyasunthipak

    Amayika Prayoga (Therapeutic Uses) :

    External:

    – Paste for joint pain and inflammation. 

    – Oil for muscle relaxation (Ashwagandha Taila). 

    Internal: 

    – Powder (1-3g) with milk for strength. 

    – Decoction for stress and fatigue. 

    IUCN Status 

    Least Concern (Widely cultivated, not endangered) 

    Research Updates (Past 5 Years)

    1. 2021: Study in Journal of Ethnopharmacology confirmed Ashwagandha’s efficacy in reducing cortisol (stress hormone). 

    2. 2022: Frontiers in Pharmacology reported improved testosterone levels in men. 

    3. 2023: Clinical trial in Ayurveda Journal showed benefits in anxiety and sleep disorders. 

     

    About Ashtwagandha

    Botanical Name

    Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal

    Family

    Solanaceae

    Identification No.

    SDACH/HG/002

    Parts Used

    Root, Leaves, Seeds, Fruits

    Habitat

    India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh

    IUCN Status

    Least Concern

    Plant Photos

    Ayurvedic Properties

    Rasa

    Madhura

    Guna

    Guru, Snigdha

    Virya

    Ushna

    Vipãka

    Madhura

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  • Aragwadha

    Aragwadha

    Aragwadha

    Botanical Name: Cassia fistula Linn.

    Family: Caesalpiniaceae

    Identification No.: SDACH/HG/001

    Introduction: In Vedic literature the dried branches of Aragvadha are used for ritual performance Several external applications containing Aragvadha are mentioned in  Ayurveda ( psoriasis etc.)

    Scientific classification: Sennas belong to the subfamily Caesalpinioideae, family Fabaceae (formerly Leguminosae). Alexandrian senna is classified as Cassia acutifolia. The species from which tinnivelly, or Indian senna, is obtained is classified as Cassia angustifolia

    Names in different Indian languages:

    English : Indian Laburnum,Purging Cassia,Golden Shower

    Hindi: Amaltas,girimala

    Kannada: Phallus,kakke,kakke mara

    Malayalam: Konna,kanikonna

    Sanskrit: Aaragvadha

    Tamil: Sarakkonrai

    Telugu: Rela,kondrakaya,aragvadamu

    Synonyms:

    Chaturaangula, Kritamaala, Kritmaalaka, Karnikaara, Shampaaka, Praagraha, Raajvrksha, Nripapaadapa, Raajadruma, Vyaadhighaataka, Aarevata.

    Cassia rhombifolia Roxb

    Classification according to Charaka, Susrutha & Vagbhata:

    Charaka: Kusthaghna, Kandüghna, Tiktaskandha, Virechana

    Susrutha: Aragvadhadi, Syamadi, Slesmasamsamana, Adhobhagahara

    Vagbhata: Aragvadhãdi, syãmadi

     Varieties & adulterants – (CV – controversy, AD – adulterants):

    1.Karnikara

    2.Pãlevatam

    3. Madhura (sweet)

    4. Amla (sour)

    5. praravata-  Psidium guyava

    6. Garcinia mangostan.

    Cassia roxburghii – AD

    Morphology:

    It is moderate-sized tree, 10-12 m. in height.

    Bark- greenish-grey, smooth when young then brick-red.

    Leaves- paripinnate, 4-8 pairs, ovate, acute, bright green, glabrous above, silvery pubescent beneath. 10-15 cm long

    Leaflets 4-8 pairs, about 2-5 cm, acuminate, ovate-lanceolate.

    Flowers- in lax pendulous racemes, yellow, fragrant.

    Pods- cylindrical, pendulous, indehiscent, 25-30 cm long and 2-3.0 cm diam.

    Seeds- numerous, small, flat, smooth, yellowish-grey

    surrounded by black pulp when ripen pulp will be sweet.

    (Flowers in March-May and fruits in May).

    Habitat  & Distribution:

    All over India, Srilanka, Nepal

    Chemical composition:

    Anthraquinone glycosides, sennosides A and B, rhein

    Pulp glucose 60%, glutin. pectin, dyes, calcium oxalate. minerals. gum and water.

    Seeds- sugars, galactomannan

    Flowers- fistulin, leucopelargonidin tetrarner, kaempfer oil

    Pods- fistulic acid  Bark & Heart wood- barbl Oil, fistucacidin, etc.

     Leaves- Rhein, sennosides A & B

    Properties:

    Rasa :  Madhura

    Guna : Madura, Guru, Snigdha

    Virya : Sita

    (Usna: Dhanvañtari Nighandu)

    Vipãka: Madhura

     Karma : Kapha-pittahara , kushtaghna, arsoghna, vrana hara

    Laxative, blood purifier, febrifugal, astringent, antibilious.

    Indications:

     Kustha, Prameha, Hrdroga, Amavãta, Gandamãlã, Kãmalã, Udara, Udãvarta, Vatarakta, Sula, Jvara

    Constipation, colic, chlorosis and urinary disorders,gout, skin disease, psoriasis, fever

    External uses:

     It is anti-inflammatory,analgesic.

    The pulp and leaf paste are used in nodular oedema & gout. rheumatoid arthritis etc.

    The decoction is used for gargling in diseases of oral cavity and throat,

    Leaf paste is used in skin disease and itching.

    Internal uses:

    Nervous system: It is analgesic by vatahara property, so useful in vata diseases.

    Digestive system: It is bitter so improves taste, It is a liver stimulant and purgative by snigtha properties. It is a mild purgative drug and is useful in constipation and jaundice.

    Circulatory system: It is cardioprotective, antiinflammatory, purifies blood so useful in heart disease, haemorrhagic ditorders, gout and swellings.

    Respiratory system: As it is madhur, snigdha, removes kapha and soothes internal organs by mridu property, in dry cough and dyspnoea flower’s avaleha is given.

    Urinary system: Diuretic by sheeta properly. It  soothes the urinary tract. Seeds are antidiabetic

    Skin: Kushthaghna and refrigerant, so used in skin disease and burning.

    Temperature: It is antipyretic, so used in fever and purgation. Its bitter taste works in digestion and is pittashamak. Bark of root is used in fever.

    Srotogamitwa:

    Dosha : Pitta. kaphaghatna ,liver stimulant

    Mala: Purgative.

    Parts used: 

    Root bark, leaves, flowers,fruit pulp

    Dosage:

    Decoction of root bark 75-100 ml.

     Flower paste 6-10 g

    Important Yogas or Formulations:

    Aragvadhadi taila, Arngvadhadi leha, Aragvadharishta..

    Therapeutic Uses:

    1. Kãmalã- Aragvadha (fruit pulp) is given with the juice of sugarcane or vidari or Amalaki after fortifying with Trikatu. (A.H.)

    2. Gandamãlã- Root bark of Aragvadhã is grinded with rice-water and used for Nasya and lepa (V.M.)

    3. Kustha- Leaves of Aragvadhä are made into paste with Amãlaka and applied externally.

    IUCN Status  – Least Concern (Not threatened)

    Research Updates (Past 5 Years)

    1. Antidiabetic Activity (2021): Study confirmed hypoglycemic effect of C. fistula pulp extract.

    2. Antimicrobial (2022): Pod extract showed efficacy against Staphylococcus aureus.

    3. Hepatoprotective (2023): Bark extract reduced liver toxicity in animal models.

    About Aragwadha

    Botanical Name

    Cassia fistula Linn.

    Family

    Caesalpiniaceae

    Identification No.

    SDACH/HG/001

    Parts Used

    Root bark, Leaves, Flowers, Fruit pulp

    Habitat

    India, Sri Lanka, Nepal

    IUCN Status

    Least Concern

    Plant Photos

    Ayurvedic Properties

    Rasa

    Madhura

    Guna

    Madura, Guru, Snigdha

    Virya

    Sita

    Vipãka

    Madhura

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