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Palak ( Spinacea oleracea )

Palak ( Spinacea oleracea )

“Palak (Spinacia oleracea) — commonly called spinach — is a fast-growing, nutrient-dense leafy green vegetable cultivated worldwide for its edible leaves. It is valued both as a food (rich in vitamins A, C, K, folate, iron, magnesium and dietary fiber) and for traditionally reported medicinal/functional properties including antioxidant, cardioprotective and neuroprotective effects

Palak Scientific Name

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Eudicots
  • Order: Caryophyllales
  • Family: Amaranthaceae (formerly placed in Chenopodiaceae)
  • Genus: Spinacia
  • Species: Spinacia oleracea L.

Palak Common Name

  • English: Spinach
  • Hindi / Indian (common): Palak
  • Sanskrit (classical): (rare in classical texts; modern vernacular used)
  • Bengali: Palong / Palong shaak
  • Gujarati / Marathi: Palak (पालक)
  • Tamil: Paalak (பாலக்)
  • Telugu: Paalakamu (పాలకము)
  • Urdu: Palak (پالک)

Traditional and Medicinal Uses

  • Nutritional / General Health – A rich dietary source of vitamins A, C, K, folates, iron, magnesium and dietary fiber — supporting vision, bone health, hemostasis (via vitamin K), and general nutrition.
  • Antioxidant & Anti-inflammatory Actions – Leaf extracts contain flavonoids, carotenoids and phenolics that display antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity in cell and animal studies; these contribute to protective effects against oxidative stress-related conditions.
  • Cardiovascular Support – Dietary nitrates and other bioactives in spinach have been associated with vasodilation and potential reductions in blood pressure in acute studies, suggesting cardiovascular benefits when included in a healthy diet.
  • Eye Health – Spinach is a major dietary source of lutein and zeaxanthin (xanthophyll carotenoids) that help maintain retinal health and may reduce risk of age-related macular degeneration.
  • Cognitive & Neuroprotective Potential – Epidemiological and preclinical evidence suggests leafy-green intake (including spinach) is associated with slower cognitive decline — possibly due to combined antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and folate content.

References

Roberts, J.L., & Moretta, A. (2016). Functional properties of spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) in cell culture, animal and human studies. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 56(13), 2298–2315.

Lomnitski, L., et al. (2003). Composition, efficacy, and safety of spinach extracts. Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, 14(2), 63–70. PubMed PMID: 14690799.

Gutierrez, R.M.P., et al. (2019). Spinacia oleracea Linn Considered as One of the Most Nutrient-Dense Leafy Vegetables: A review of phytochemistry, ethnopharmacology and pharmacology. Journal of Ethnopharmacology (review).

Cerulli, A., et al. (2024). Spinacia oleracea L. baby leaves as a source of bioactive compounds. Foods, 13(22):3699. doi:10.3390/foods13223699.

Nemzer, B., et al. (2021). Extraction and profiling of natural bioactive molecules from freeze-dried spinach. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis, (study profiling vitamins and phytochemicals).

Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Committee. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API). Government of India — (API contains monographs/standards for many botanicals used in Ayurveda; see API volumes for details and official monographs). (API, various volumes and monographs; official PDFs available from the Government/archived repositories).

United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) — FoodData Central. Spinach (Spinacia oleracea) nutrient composition database (foundation foods / standard reference).

Alsi (Linum usitatissimum)

Alsi (Linum usitatissimum)

“Alsi (Linum usitatissimum), commonly known as flaxseed, is one of the oldest cultivated crops, belonging to the Linaceae family. It is grown primarily for its seeds, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, lignans, and dietary fiber. Alsi has been traditionally used in Ayurveda and other traditional systems for its benefits in cardiovascular health, constipation, inflammation, skin disorders, and hormone regulation.

Alsi Scientific Name

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Eudicots
  • Order: Malpighiales
  • Family: Linaceae
  • Genus: Linum
  • Species: Linum usitatissimum

Alsi Common Names

  • English: Flaxseed, Linseed
  • Sanskrit: Atasi
  • Hindi: Alsi
  • Gujarati: Alshi
  • Tamil: Ali virai
  • Telugu: Avise ginjalu
  • Bengali: Tishi
  • Marathi: Javas
  • Kannada: Agasi

Traditional and Medicinal Uses

  • Cardiovascular Health – Rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), helping to reduce bad cholesterol and support heart function.
  • Digestive Health – High dietary fiber content helps alleviate constipation and promotes bowel regularity.
  • Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Support – Contains lignans and omega-3s, reducing systemic inflammation and oxidative stress.
  • Hormonal Balance – Lignans act as phytoestrogens, helping regulate menstrual cycles and ease menopausal symptoms.
  • Skin and Hair Care – Used traditionally to moisturize skin, treat eczema, and improve hair texture.
  • Diabetes Management – Helps regulate blood glucose levels due to its soluble fiber content.

Phytochemical Constituents

    Alsi contains a rich profile of bioactive phytochemicals:
  • Essential Fatty Acids: Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), Linoleic acid
  • Lignans: Secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG)
  • Phenolic Compounds: Ferulic acid, p-Coumaric acid
  • Alkaloids: Linamarin
  • Proteins and Amino Acids: Rich in arginine, glutamine
  • Dietary Fiber: Both soluble and insoluble fibers
  • Mucilage: Contributes to laxative and demulcent action

References

Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Part I, Vol. V, Government of India.

Bhavaprakasha Nighantu – Commentary by Sri Bhavamisra.

Kajla, P., Sharma, A., & Sood, D.R. (2015). “Flaxseed—a potential functional food source.” Journal of Food Science and Technology, 52(4), 1857–1871.

Bloedon, L.T., & Szapary, P.O. (2004). “Flaxseed and cardiovascular risk.” Nutrition Reviews, 62(1), 18–27.

Touré, A., & Xueming, X. (2010). “Flaxseed lignans: source, biosynthesis, metabolism, antioxidant activity, bio-active components, and health benefits.” Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety, 9(3), 261–269.

European Pharmacopoeia, 10th Edition, Council of Europe.

Chopra, R.N., Nayar, S.L., & Chopra, I.C. (1956). Glossary of Indian Medicinal Plants. CSIR, New Delhi.

United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Monographs – Linum usitatissimum (Flaxseed).

Coriander (Coriandrum sativum)

Coriander (Coriandrum sativum)

“Coriander (Coriandrum sativum), commonly known as Dhana in Ayurveda, is a fragrant annual herb belonging to the Apiaceae family. Native to regions spanning Southern Europe, Northern Africa, and Southwestern Asia, it is widely cultivated for both its seeds and fresh leaves. In traditional systems of medicine like Ayurveda, Unani, and Chinese medicine, it is valued for its digestive, carminative, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic properties.

Coriander Scientific Name

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Eudicots
  • Order: Apiales
  • Family: Apiaceae
  • Genus: Coriandrum
  • Species: Coriandrum sativum L.

Coriander Common Name

  • English: Coriander
  • Sanskrit: Dhānyaka, Dhana
  • Hindi: Dhania
  • Gujarati: Dhana
  • Tamil: Kothamalli
  • Telugu: Dhaniyalu
  • Malayalam: Malli
  • Kannada: Kottambari
  • Bengali: Dhone
  • Marathi: Dhane

Traditional and Medicinal Uses

  • Digestive Health – Used as a carminative, improving digestion, reducing bloating, flatulence, and acidity.
  • Antioxidant & Anti-inflammatory Effects – Contains phenolic compounds that combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation.
  • Antimicrobial Activity – Demonstrates antibacterial and antifungal properties, particularly due to linalool in the essential oil.
  • Diuretic and Detoxifying – Traditionally used to promote urination, cleanse the urinary tract, and reduce water retention.
  • Blood Sugar Management – Studied for its potential hypoglycemic effect, useful in managing early stages of diabetes.
  • Menstrual and Reproductive Support – Used in traditional medicine to regulate menstrual flow and relieve associated discomfort.
  • Skin Health – Employed externally in Ayurvedic preparations to treat acne, eczema, and skin irritations.

Phytochemical Constituents

    Coriandrum sativum is rich in several bioactive phytochemicals that contribute to its therapeutic actions:
  • Essential Oils: Linalool, Geraniol, Camphor, Borneol, Limonene
  • Flavonoids: Quercetin, Kaempferol, Rutin
  • Phenolic Acids: Caffeic acid, Chlorogenic acid
  • Sterols: β-sitosterol
  • Alkaloids: Coriandrin
  • Vitamins & Minerals: Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Iron, Magnesium

References

Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, Part-I, Vol. I, Govt. of India, Ministry of AYUSH.

Nadkarni, K.M. (2002). Indian Materia Medica, Vol. I, Bombay Popular Prakashan.

Laribi, B., Kouki, K., M’Hamdi, M., & Bettaieb, T. (2015). “Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) and its bioactive constituents.” Fitoterapia, 103, 9–26.

Sahib, N.G., et al. (2013). “Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.): A potential functional food.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 14(2), 2055–2080.

European Pharmacopoeia, 10th Edition, Council of Europe.

Chopra, R.N., Nayar, S.L., & Chopra, I.C. (1956). Glossary of Indian Medicinal Plants. Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), New Delhi.

Pandey, G. (1981). Dravyaguna Vigyan (Vol. 2). Chaukhambha Krishnadas Academy, Varanasi.

NAGKESHAR (Mesua ferrea)

NAGKESHAR (Mesua ferrea)

“The slow-growing, evergreen Nagkeshar (Mesua ferrea) tree is well-known for its medicinally beneficial blooms and stamens. It is sometimes referred to as Ceylon Ironwood or Indian Rose Chestnut. It is commonly found in the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. In traditional Ayurvedic and Siddha medicine, Nagkeshar has been used to treat bleeding disorders, inflammation, digestive problems, and skin diseases. The tree’s dense, durable wood and aromatic flowers also make it significant in cultural and religious rituals.

Scientific Names

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Eudicots
  • Order: Malpighiales
  • Family: Calophyllaceae
  • Genus: Mesua
  • Species: Mesua ferrea

Common Names

  • English: Ceylon Ironwood, Indian Rose Chestnut
  • Sanskrit: Nāgakeshara, Nāgapuspa
  • Hindi: Nāgkesar
  • Marathi: Nāgkesar
  • Tamil: Nagalingam
  • Malayalam: Nākappū
  • Telugu: Nāgakesaramu
  • Bengali: Nāgkesar

Traditional and Medicinal Uses

  • Hemostatic Activity – Used to stop bleeding in conditions like piles, excessive menstruation, and nosebleeds (epistaxis).
  • Anti-inflammatory and Wound Healing – Acts as a natural anti-inflammatory, reducing swelling, promoting tissue repair, and aiding wound healing.
  • Digestive and Metabolic Support – Because of its deepana (appetizer) and pachana (digestive) qualities, it is helpful in treating diarrhea, dysentery, and controlling metabolism.
  • Skin and Hair Health – Traditionally used to manage skin allergies, acne, and promote hair growth.
  • Antioxidant and Anti-microbial – Exhibits antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, protecting against microbial infections and oxidative stress.

References

The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, Part I, Volume III, Government of India, Ministry of AYUSH.

Kirtikar, K.R., & Basu, B.D. (2001). Indian Medicinal Plants, Vol. II, 2nd Edition. Bishen Singh Mahendra Pal Singh, Dehradun, India.

Pandey, G., & Chandra, P. (2014). Herbal Biomedicine and Traditional Healing Systems, New Delhi: Springer.

Sharma, P.C., Yelne, M.B., & Dennis, T.J. (2001). Database on Medicinal Plants Used in Ayurveda, Vol. 5. Central Council for Research in Ayurveda & Siddha, Department of ISM&H, Govt. of India.

Jain, S.K. (1991). Dictionary of Indian Folk Medicine and Ethnobotany, Deep Publications, New Delhi.

Mukhija, M., & Sharma, V. (2010). “Pharmacognostical and phytochemical investigation of Mesua ferrea Linn.” International Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemical Research, 2(1), 10-14.

Joshi, A., & Bhatia, R. (2015). “A Review on Mesua ferrea Linn.: A medicinal plant with diverse pharmacological potential.” International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Review and Research, 30(1), 70-75.

European Pharmacopoeia, 10th Edition, Council of Europe.

Nadkarni, K.M. (1976). Indian Materia Medica, Vol. 1, Bombay Popular Prakashan.

Chopra, R.N., Nayar, S.L., & Chopra, I.C. (1956). Glossary of Indian Medicinal Plants. CSIR, New Delhi.

KAMPHILAK (Mallotus philippinensis)

KAMPHILAK (Mallotus philippinensis)

“Kamphilak (Mallotus philippinensis Muell. Arg.), commonly known as the Kamala tree, is a medicinal shrub or small tree belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family. It is extensively found in Southeast Asian and Indian subtropical and tropical woods. The reddish glandular hairs of its fruit are known as Kamala powder, traditionally used in Ayurvedic and folk medicine systems as anthelmintic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, and skin care remedy.

Scientific Names

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Eudicots
  • Order: Malpighiales
  • Family: Euphorbiaceae
  • Genus: Mallotus
  • Species: Mallotus philippinensis Muell. Arg.

Common Names

  • English: Kamala Tree, Monkey Face Tree
  • Sanskrit: Kampillaka, Rakta-pushpa
  • Hindi: Kamala, Kamala ke beej
  • Tamil: Kamalai
  • Telugu: Kampillaka
  • Malayalam: Kampila
  • Kannada: Kampillaka
  • Bengali: Kamala
  • Marathi: Kamala

Traditional and Medicinal Uses

  • Hepatoprotective and Liver Health – Used for managing jaundice, liver enlargement, and other hepatic conditions due to its detoxifying action.
  • Skin Disorders – Applied externally for eczema, scabies, and fungal infections, owing to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory – Shows significant free radical scavenging activity; used in inflammatory conditions and chronic skin diseases.
  • Laxative and Digestive Aid – Acts as a mild laxative, improving bowel movements and digestive health.

References

Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Part I, Volume VI, Government of India, Ministry of AYUSH.

Kirtikar, K.R., & Basu, B.D. (1991). Indian Medicinal Plants, Vol. III. Lalit Mohan Basu Publications, Allahabad.

Otsuki, N., Dang, N.H., Kumagai, E., et al. (2010). “Aqueous extract of Carica papaya leaves exhibits anti-tumor activity and immunomodulatory effects.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 127(3), 760–767.

Chopra, R.N., Nayar, S.L., & Chopra, I.C. (1956). Glossary of Indian Medicinal Plants. CSIR, New Delhi.

Mehta, B.K., Tiwari, M., & Singh, M. (2010). “Phytochemical and Pharmacological Studies on Mallotus philippinensis Muell. Arg.” International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Review and Research, 1(2), 71-78.

Shafi, P.M., Rosamma, M.K., Jamil, K., & Reddy, P.S. (2002). “Antibacterial activity of Mallotus philippinensis extract.” Fitoterapia, 73(3), 251–254.

European Medicines Agency (EMA). (2013). Assessment report on Mallotus philippinensis Muell. Arg. – EMA/HMPC/552670/2012.

Nadkarni, K.M. (1976). Indian Materia Medica, Vol. I. Bombay Popular Prakashan.

The Wealth of India: A Dictionary of Indian Raw Materials and Industrial Products, CSIR Publications, New Delhi.

Pharmacognosy of Indigenous Drugs, Central Council for Research in Ayurveda and Siddha (CCRAS), Govt. of India.

PAPAYA (Carica papaya)

PAPAYA (Carica papaya)

“Papaya (Carica papaya) is a fast-growing, tropical fruit-bearing plant known for its sweet, orange-fleshed fruit and medicinal properties. Native to Central America and Mexico, it belongs to the Caricaceae family. Both its fruit and various plant parts (leaves, seeds, latex) are used in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Unani, and folk medicine for treating digestive issues, infections, inflammation, and skin problems.

Papaya Scientific Name

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Eudicots
  • Order: Brassicales
  • Family: Caricaceae
  • Genus: Carica
  • Species: Carica papaya

Papaya Common Name

  • English: Papaya
  • Sanskrit: Eranda Karkati, Madhu Karkati
  • Hindi: Papita
  • Tamil: Pappali
  • Telugu: Boppayi Pandu
  • Bengali: Pepe
  • Marathi: Papayi

Papaya Traditional and Medicinal Uses

  • Digestive Health – Papain enzyme from unripe fruit and latex aids in digestion by breaking down proteins.
  • Anthelmintic Use – Seeds are used as a natural remedy against intestinal worms, especially roundworms and tapeworms.
  • Skin and Wound Healing – Latex and pulp applied topically for wound healing, skin infections, and burns due to antimicrobial and proteolytic action.
  • Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic Use – Leaf extract traditionally used to reduce inflammation and pain in arthritic and febrile conditions.
  • Reproductive and Menstrual Health – Used in some traditional systems for menstrual regulation and to induce abortion

References

Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Part-I, Vol. I, Govt. of India.

Chopra, R.N., Nayar, S.L., & Chopra, I.C. (1956). Glossary of Indian Medicinal Plants. CSIR, New Delhi.

Otsuki, N., Dang, N.H., Kumagai, E., et al. (2010). “Aqueous extract of Carica papaya leaves exhibits anti-tumor activity and immunomodulatory effects.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 127(3), 760–767.

Ahmad, N., Fazal, H., Ayaz, M., et al. (2011). “Biological role of Carica papaya in medicine and cosmetics.” Pakistan Journal of Botany, 43(1), 1–9.

European Pharmacopoeia, 10th Edition, Council of Europe.

Marisa, A.S., & Keong, C.Y. (2016). “Effect of Carica papaya leaf extract on platelet count in dengue patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis.” Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2016, Article ID 7596840.

Wee, Y.C. (2010). Fruits of Southeast Asia: Facts and Folklore. Marshall Cavendish International.

World Health Organization (WHO) Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants.

Anantmool (Hemidesmus indicus)

Anantmool (Hemidesmus indicus)

“Anantmool (Hemidesmus indicus), also known as Indian Sarsaparilla, is a twining perennial shrub native to South Asia and valued for its extensive use in traditional Indian medicine. It is highly valued in Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani systems for its detoxifying, anti-inflammatory, and rejuvenating properties. Anantmool roots are fragrant and have been used for centuries in treating skin disorders, urinary issues, and as a blood purifier.

Anantmool Scientific Name

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Eudicots
  • Order: Gentianales
  • Family: Apocynaceae
  • Genus: Hemidesmus
  • Species: Hemidesmus indicus (L.) R.Br. ex Schult.

Anantmool Common Name

  • English: Indian Sarsaparilla
  • Sanskrit: Anantmool, Sariva
  • Hindi: Anantmool
  • Tamil: Nannari
  • Telugu: Sugandhi-pala
  • Malayalam: Nannari
  • Kannada: Sogade beru
  • Marathi: Upalsari
  • Bengali: Anantamul

Traditional and Medicinal Uses

  • Blood Purifier – Widely used to cleanse the blood, treat skin conditions like eczema, acne, and chronic itching.
  • Anti-inflammatory and Detoxifier – Helps reduce internal inflammation and eliminate toxins from the body.
  • Skin Health – Used externally and internally for psoriasis, dermatitis, and wounds.
  • Hormonal Balance and Fertility – Traditionally used in female reproductive health for balancing hormones and treating infertility.
  • Antipyretic and Cooling Agent – Acts as a natural coolant and is effective in fevers, burning sensation, and gastritis.
  • Respiratory and Urinary Benefits – Helps in relieving bronchitis, chronic cough, and urinary tract infections.

References

    The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, Part I, Vol. I. Ministry of AYUSH, Govt. of India.

    Nadkarni, K.M. (1976). Indian Materia Medica, Vol. 1. Popular Prakashan.

    Mukherjee, P.K. (2002). Quality Control of Herbal Drugs: An Approach to Evaluation of Botanicals. Business Horizons.

    Bhatt, P., et al. (2021). “A phytopharmacological review on Hemidesmus indicus (Anantmool): Traditional uses, pharmacological activities, and phytochemistry.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 267, 113503.

    Sivarajan, V.V., & Balachandran, I. (1994). Ayurvedic Drugs and Their Plant Sources. Oxford & IBH Publishing Co.

    European Medicines Agency (EMA). Community Herbal Monograph on Hemidesmus indicus Root.

    Indian Herbal Pharmacopoeia, Revised Edition (2002), Indian Drug Manufacturers’ Association and Regional Research Laboratory.

Nishoth (Operculina turpethum)

Nishoth (Operculina turpethum)

“Nishoth (Operculina turpethum) is a well-known herb in Ayurvedic medicine, valued for its strong purgative action. It is a perennial, twining herbaceous plant that belongs to the Convolvulaceae family. The root of the plant, especially the white variety, is widely used for therapeutic purposes including detoxification, treatment of constipation, liver disorders, and as a blood purifier.”

Scientific Classification

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Eudicots
  • Order: Solanales
  • Family: Convolvulaceae
  • Genus: Operculina
  • Species: Operculina turpethum (L.) Silva Manso

Common Names

  • English: Turpeth Root / Indian Jalap
  • Sanskrit: Trivrit, Teekshna Trivrit
  • Hindi: Nishoth, Tarbel
  • Gujarati: Nisot
  • Tamil: Sivathai
  • Telugu: Tegada
  • Bengali: Nishoth
  • Marathi: Nishottar

Traditional and Medicinal Uses

  • Laxative and Purgative – The root acts as a strong purgative, useful in treating chronic constipation, ascites, and abdominal distension.
  • Liver Health – Used in conditions like jaundice and hepatitis due to its hepatoprotective and cholagogue action.
  • Skin and Blood Disorders – Acts as a blood purifier, used in treatment of eczema, acne, and other skin diseases..
  • Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic – Helpful in managing joint inflammation, gout, and arthritis.

References

    The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, Part I, Vol. 1, Govt. of India, Ministry of AYUSH, New Delhi.

    Nadkarni, K.M. (1976). Indian Materia Medica, Vol 1, Popular Prakashan, Mumbai.

    Anonymous (2001). Quality Standards of Indian Medicinal Plants, Vol. 2, ICMR, New Delhi.

    Sharma, P.C., Yelne, M.B., & Dennis, T.J. (2001). Database on Medicinal Plants Used in Ayurveda, Vol. 4, CCRAS, New Delhi.

    Gupta, R.K., & Tandon, N. (2004). Reviews on Indian Medicinal Plants, Vol. 3, ICMR, New Delhi.

    Singh, S., & Kumar, S. (2012). “Pharmacognostical and Phytochemical Evaluation of Operculina turpethum.” International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Review and Research, 14(1), 104-108.

    Goyal, M., Nagori, B.P., & Sasmal, D. (2011). “Phytopharmacological review on Operculina turpethum.” Asian Journal of Plant Sciences, 10(6), 390-395.

    European Pharmacopoeia, 10th Edition, Council of Europe.

Kapikacchu (Mucuna pruriens)

Kapikacchu (Mucuna pruriens)

“The velvet bean, or kapikacchu (Mucuna pruriens), is a tropical legume valued for its diverse nutritional and medicinal characteristics. It is widely used in Ayurveda, Unani, and other traditional medicine systems, primarily for its rejuvenating effects, neurological benefits, and as an aphrodisiac. It is notable for containing L-DOPA (Levodopa), a direct precursor to dopamine, making it particularly useful in managing Parkinson’s disease, improving mood, and enhancing libido and fertility.”

Velvet Bean Scientific Name

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Tracheophyta
  • Class: Magnoliopsida
  • Order: Fabales
  • Family: Fabaceae
  • Genus: Mucuna
  • Species: Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC.

Common Names

  • English: Velvet Bean, Cowhage
  • Sanskrit: Kapikacchu, Atmagupta
  • Hindi: Kaunch, Konch Beej
  • Tamil: Poonaikali Vidai
  • Telugu: Naikkuruna
  • Bengali: Alkushi
  • Marathi: Khajkujhali

Traditional and Medicinal Uses

  • Nervine Tonic – Strengthens the nervous system, supports coordination and muscle movement.
  • Aphrodisiac and Reproductive Health – Enhances libido, sperm count, and fertility in both men and women, Rejuvenates reproductive tissues and improves vitality.
  • Mood Enhancer – Elevates dopamine levels, aiding in the treatment of depression, stress, and anxiety..
  • Anti-diabetic – Helps regulate blood glucose levels by modulating insulin sensitivity.

References

    Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Vol. II, Part I, Govt. of India

    The Wealth of India: A Dictionary of Indian Raw Materials and Industrial Products, CSIR, New Delhi.

    Manyam, B. V. (1995). “Mucuna pruriens (Cowhage) in Parkinson’s disease.” Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 1(3), 249–255.

    Lampariello, L. R., Cortelazzo, A., Guerranti, R., Sticozzi, C., & Valacchi, G. (2012). “The Magic Velvet Bean of Mucuna pruriens.” Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, 2(4), 331–339.

    Hussain, G., et al. (2018). “Role of dietary bioactive phytochemicals in oxidative stress-mediated neurodegenerative diseases: Evidence from in vivo and in vitro studies.” Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, Article ID 2017039.

    Bhavaprakasha Nighantu, Commentary by Dr. K.C. Chunekar, Published by Chaukhambha Bharati Academy, Varanasi.

    European Medicines Agency (EMA). Assessment report on Mucuna pruriens seed extract. Herbal medicinal product documentation.

    United States Pharmacopeia Herbal Medicines Compendium (HMC).

    Satyavati, G.V., Gupta, A.K., & Tandon, N. (1987). Medicinal Plants of India, Vol. II. ICMR, New Delhi.

SIGRU (Moringa oleifera)

SIGRU (Moringa oleifera)

“The Indian subcontinent is home to the quick-growing, drought-resistant Moringa oleifera, also referred to as the drumstick tree. Belonging to the Moringaceae family, it is highly valued in Ayurveda and other traditional medicine systems for its nutritional, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-diabetic properties. Every part of the plant—leaves, seeds, pods, bark, and roots—is used medicinally or nutritionally.”

Moringa oleifera Scientific Name

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Eudicots
  • Order: Brassicales
  • Family: Moringaceae
  • Genus: Moringa
  • Species: Moringa oleifera

Moringa oleifera Common Name

  • English: Drumstick Tree, Horseradish Tree, Miracle Tree
  • Sanskrit: Sigru, Shobhanjana
  • Hindi: Sahjan
  • Tamil: Murungai
  • Telugu: Munagakaya
  • Malayalam: Muringa
  • Kannada: Nugge Mara
  • Bengali: Sajna
  • Marathi: Shevga
  • Gujarati: Saragavo

Moringa oleifera Uses

  • Nutritional Supplement – Leaves are rich in vitamins (A, C, B6), iron, calcium, and proteins, often used as a superfood.
  • Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant – Contains quercetin and chlorogenic acid, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
  • Blood Sugar Regulation – Seeds and leaves have hypoglycemic properties useful in managing type 2 diabetes..
  • Cardiovascular Health – Helps reduce cholesterol and blood pressure, improving heart health.
  • Digestive Support – Bark and roots help in treating constipation, gastritis, and ulcers.
  • Joint and Bone Health – Traditionally used to treat arthritis, swelling, and bone weakness..
  • Reproductive Health – Improves libido, regulates menstrual cycles, and enhances lactation in mothers..

References

    Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, Govt. of India, Ministry of AYUSH.

    Fahey, J. W. (2005). Moringa oleifera: A review of the medical evidence for its nutritional, therapeutic, and prophylactic properties. Part 1. Trees for Life Journal.

    Anwar, F., Latif, S., Ashraf, M., & Gilani, A. H. (2007). Moringa oleifera: A food plant with multiple medicinal uses. Phytotherapy Research, 21(1), 17–25.

    Leone, A., Spada, A., Battezzati, A., Schiraldi, A., Aristil, J., & Bertoli, S. (2015). Cultivation, genetic, ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry and pharmacology of Moringa oleifera leaves: An overview. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 16(6), 12791–12835.

    The Wealth of India (Raw Materials), Vol. 6: L-M, CSIR, New Delhi.

    Chopra, R.N., Nayar, S.L., & Chopra, I.C. (1956). Glossary of Indian Medicinal Plants. CSIR, New Delhi.

    Fuglie, L. J. (2001). The Miracle Tree: Moringa oleifera: Natural Nutrition for the Tropics. Church World Service, Dakar.

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