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Archives: Ingredient

Clove / Laving (Syzygium aromaticum)

laving

Clove / Laving (Syzygium aromaticum) is a dried flower bud of a tree belonging to the family Myrtaceae. Native to the Maluku Islands of Indonesia, it is widely cultivated and used around the world, particularly in culinary, pharmaceutical, and traditional medicine systems. Clove is renowned for its antimicrobial, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, making it a valuable herb in Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha systems of medicine.

Clove Scientific Names

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Eudicots
  • Order: Myrtales
  • Family: Myrtaceae
  • Genus: Syzygium
  • Species: Syzygium aromaticum

Clove Common Names

  • English: Clove
  • Sanskrit: Lavanga
  • Hindi: Laung
  • Tamil: Kirambu
  • Telugu: Lavangam
  • Malayalam: Grambu
  • Kannada: Lavanga
  • Marathi: Lavang
  • Bengali: Labanga

Clove Uses

  • Dental and Oral Health – Used for toothaches and gum infections due to its analgesic and antiseptic properties.
  • Digestive Health – Helps relieve indigestion, bloating, and flatulence. Acts as a carminative.
  • Respiratory Disorders – Used in managing cough, asthma, and bronchitis as an expectorant.
  • Anti-inflammatory and Pain Relief – Topical application provides relief from muscle pain, joint inflammation, and arthritis.
  • Immune Support and Antioxidant Action – Rich in antioxidants like eugenol, which supports the immune system and reduces oxidative stress.
  • Antimicrobial Action – Exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi, and viruses.

    • Phytochemical Constituents

    Clove is rich in essential oils and bioactive compounds, including:

    • Essential Oils:

      • Eugenol (main constituent, up to 80–90%)
      Caryophyllene
      Acetyl eugenol

    • Phenolic Compounds:

      • Gallic acid
      Tannins

    • Flavonoids:

      • Quercetin
      Kaempferol

    • Others:

      • Saponins
      Steroids
      Terpenoids

    References

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

    Indian Materia Medica by K.M. Nadkarni, Popular Prakashan, Mumbai.

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

    European Pharmacopoeia, 10th Edition, Council of Europe.

    Chaieb, K. et al. (2007). “Antibacterial activity of Syzygium aromaticum essential oil against a wide range of clinical bacteria.” International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents, 30(3), 304–308.

    Cortés-Rojas, D.F., de Souza, C.R.F., & Oliveira, W.P. (2014). “Clove (Syzygium aromaticum): A precious spice.” Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, 4(2), 90–96.

    Singh, G., et al. (2005). “Chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of essential oil of clove (Syzygium aromaticum) from India.” Flavour and Fragrance Journal, 20, 55–58.

NAGOD (Vitex negundo)

NAGOD (Vitex negundo)

Nagod (Vitex negundo L.) is a large aromatic shrub traditionally used in Ayurvedic, Siddha, and Unani medicine systems. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family and is known for its potent anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-bacterial, and anti-asthmatic properties. The plant is extensively utilized for treating joint pain, respiratory ailments, skin disorders, and fever, making it a cornerstone in herbal medicine for musculoskeletal and respiratory conditions.

Nagod Scientific Names

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Eudicots
  • Order: Lamiales
  • Family: Lamiaceae
  • Genus: Vitex
  • Species: Vitex negundo L.

Nirgundi Common Name

  • English: Chinese Chaste Tree, Five-Leaved Chaste Tree
  • Sanskrit: Nirgundi
  • Hindi: Nagod / Nirgundi
  • Tamil: Nochi
  • Telugu: Nocchi
  • Malayalam: Indrani
  • Kannada: Nirgundi
  • Bengali: Nishinda
  • Marathi: Nagod

Nirgundi Uses

  • Joint and Muscular Pain Relief – Used in Ayurveda as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic for conditions like arthritis, sciatica, and muscular injuries.
  • Respiratory Health – Acts as an expectorant and is used in cough, asthma, and bronchitis.
  • Skin Disorders – Antibacterial and antifungal properties help in treating eczema, wounds, and boils.
  • Fever and Infections – Traditionally used to treat intermittent fever, malaria, and general infections.
  • Gynecological Uses – Helps in managing menstrual disorders and is used as a uterine tonic in folk medicine.

    • Phytochemical Constituents

    Vitex negundo contains several pharmacologically active constituents that contribute to its wide range of therapeutic applications:

    • Flavonoids: Vitexin, Casticin, Orientin
    • Iridoid Glycosides: Negundoside
    • Terpenoids: β-sitosterol, Lupeol
    • Phenolic Compounds: p-Hydroxybenzoic acid
    • Essential Oils: Sabinene, 1,8-cineole, α-pinene, Linalool
    • Alkaloids: Vitenegundine

    References

    Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Part I, Vol. 1, Government of India, Ministry of AYUSH.

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

    Kirtikar, K.R., & Basu, B.D. (1935). Indian Medicinal Plants, Vol. 3, Lalit Mohan Basu, Allahabad.

    Dahanukar, S.A., Kulkarni, R.A., & Rege, N.N. (2000). “Pharmacology of medicinal plants and natural products.” Indian Journal of Pharmacology, 32, S81–S118.

    Sharma, R. (2003). Medicinal Plants of India: An Encyclopaedia, Daya Publishing House.

    Singh, G., et al. (2005). “Essential oil composition of Vitex negundo Linn. and its antimicrobial activity.” Natural Product Research, 19(5), 403–409.

    European Medicines Agency. Assessment Report on Vitex negundo L., Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products (HMPC), 2011.

VASAKA (Malabar Nut)

VASAKA (Malabar Nut)

Vasaka (Justicia adhatoda), commonly known as Malabar Nut, is a well-known medicinal plant widely used in Ayurvedic, Unani, and Siddha systems of medicine, primarily for its bronchodilator, expectorant, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is particularly renowned for treating respiratory disorders, including asthma, bronchitis, cough, and tuberculosis. Vasaka is indigenous to Southeast Asia and a member of the Acanthaceae family.

Vasaka Scientific Name

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Eudicots
  • Order: Lamiales
  • Family: Acanthaceae
  • Genus: Justicia
  • Species: Justicia adhatoda (Synonym: Adhatoda vasica)

Justicia adhatoda Common Name

  • English: Malabar Nut, Vasaka
  • Sanskrit: Vasa, Vrisha
  • Hindi: Adusa
  • Tamil: Adathodai
  • Telugu: Addasaramu
  • Malayalam: Atalotakam
  • Kannada: Adusoge
  • Marathi: Adulsa
  • Bengali: Basok

Justicia adhatoda Uses

  • Respiratory Disorders
    • Expectorant – Helps in thinning and expelling phlegm from the lungs.
    • Bronchodilator – Relieves asthma and bronchial congestion.
    • Antitussive – Soothes chronic cough, bronchitis, and TB.
  • Bleeding Disorders – Traditionally used to treat hemoptysis (coughing up blood), menorrhagia (heavy menstrual bleeding), and bleeding piles due to its styptic action.
  • Antimicrobial and Antioxidant – Demonstrates significant antibacterial, antiviral, and antioxidant activity in vitro and in vivo.
  • Anti-inflammatory and Wound Healing – Used in treating skin diseases, wounds, and inflammation.

Phytochemical Constituents

Vasaka contains a rich array of alkaloids, flavonoids, and essential oils that contribute to its medicinal effects:

  • Alkaloids: Vasicine, Vasicinone, Vasicinol
  • Flavonoids: Luteolin, Apigenin
  • Phenolic Compounds: Tannins, Gallic acid
  • Essential oils: 1,8-Cineole, β-sitosterol

References

Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API). Govt. of India, Ministry of AYUSH. Volume 1, Part I, Monograph on Adhatoda vasica.

Singh, S., & Khanuja, S.P.S. (2004). “Biological effects of Justicia adhatoda (vasaka): A review.” Current Science, 87(1), 131–135.

Dhuley, J.N. (1999). “Antitussive effect of Adhatoda vasica extract on mechanical or chemical stimulation-induced coughing in animals.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 67(3), 361–365.

European Medicines Agency. (2015). Herbal monograph on Justicia adhatoda leaves.

Karthikeyan, P., & Shanthi, P. (2009). “Protective effect of Adhatoda vasica against oxidative damage of liver in hyperammonemic rats.” Indian Journal of Clinical Biochemistry, 24(2), 174–179.

Warrier, P.K., Nambiar, V.P.K., & Ramankutty, C. (1993). Indian Medicinal Plants: A Compendium of 500 Species, Vol. 1. Orient Longman.

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

Indian Pharmacopoeia. (2022). Monograph on Adhatoda vasica. Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission.

Sariva – Hemidesmus indicus

Sariva - Hemidesmus indicus

Sariva, also known as Indian Sarsaparilla, is a slender, twining shrub native to India. Its roots are aromatic and used extensively in Ayurvedic medicine for detoxification, skin disorders, and as a general health tonic. The herb is especially praised for balancing the Pitta dosha.

Sariva Scientific Names

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Eudicots
  • Order: Gentianales
  • Family: Apocynaceae
  • Genus: Hemidesmus
  • Species: H. indicus

Hemidesmus indicus Common Names

  • English: Indian Sarsaparilla
  • Hindi: Anantmool
  • Sanskrit: Sariva, Anantmula
  • Gujarati: Udeeniya
  • Marathi: Upalsari
  • Tamil: Nannari
  • Telugu: Sugandhipala

Hemidesmus indicus uses

  • Blood Purifier – Traditionally used to cleanse the blood and improve skin complexion.
  • Skin Health – Effective in managing eczema, acne, and chronic skin allergies.
  • Detoxification – Promotes liver detoxification and urinary health.
  • Immune Booster – Strengthens overall immunity and rejuvenates body tissues.
  • Fever and Inflammation – Used in reducing fever, burning sensation, and inflammation.
  • Digestive Health – Aids digestion, improves appetite, and soothes ulcers.

    • Phytochemical Constituents

    Sariva contains various bioactive compounds including:

    • Hemidesmin I and II – Antioxidant and hepatoprotective
    • Saponins – Anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties
    • Tannins – Astringent and antimicrobial
    • Essential oils – Provide aromatic and therapeutic value
    • Coumarins – Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
    • Steroids and Flavonoids – Immunomodulatory properties

    References

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

    Sharma, P. V. (2003). Dravyaguna Vigyan, Vol. 2. Chaukhambha Bharati Academy.

    Nadkarni, K. M. (2009). Indian Materia Medica, Vol. I. Bombay Popular Prakashan.

    Kirtikar, K. R., & Basu, B. D. (2008). Indian Medicinal Plants, Vol. II. International Book Distributors.

    Gupta, M., Mazumder, U. K., & Bhawal, S. R. (2004). “Antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of Hemidesmus indicus root extract.” Indian Journal of Experimental Biology, 42(3), 301–305.

    Muthu, C., et al. (2006). “Medicinal plants used by traditional healers in Kancheepuram District of Tamil Nadu, India.” Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine, 2, 43.

CHANOTHI (Ichnocarpus frutescens)

CHANOTHI (Ichnocarpus frutescens)

Ichnocarpus frutescens, commonly known as Chanothi, is a woody climber belonging to the Apocynaceae family. Native to tropical Asia, including India, it is recognized for its slender, cylindrical fruits and minute purple or greenish-white flowers. Traditionally, various parts of the plant have been utilized in herbal medicine for their therapeutic properties.

Chanothi Scientific Names

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Division: Magnoliophyta
  • Class: Magnoliopsida
  • Order: Gentianales
  • Family: Apocynaceae
  • Genus: Ichnocarpus
  • Species: Ichnocarpus frutescens

Ichnocarpus frutescens Common Names

  • English: Black Creeper
  • Sanskrit: Krishna Sariva
  • Hindi: Kali Sariva, Dudhi, Simalata
  • Assamese: Dudhkuri Lota
  • Bengali: Dorelata, Dudhi, Shyamalata
  • Kannada: Gorwiballi, Haalu Genasu
  • Malayalam: Nannari, Parvalli
  • Marathi: Dudhbel, Kantebhouri
  • Oriya: Syamolota
  • Tamil: Illu-katte, Paravalli
  • Telugu: Illukkatti, Korampala
  • Tibetan: Thal Tras Nag Po

Chanothi Uses

  • Digestive Health – Used to alleviate dysentery and diarrhea due to its astringent properties.
  • Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic – Contains compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, useful in treating conditions like arthritis and general pain relief.
  • Antimicrobial Activity – Demonstrates antibacterial properties, making it effective against certain bacterial infections.
  • Skin Conditions – Applied topically to treat skin infections, wounds, and ulcers due to its healing properties.

    • Phytochemical Constituents

    Phytochemical analyses of Ichnocarpus frutescens have identified several bioactive compounds:

    • Alkaloids: Contribute to the plant’s therapeutic effects, including antimicrobial and analgesic activities.
    • Flavonoids: Known for their antioxidant properties, aiding in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
    • Saponins: Exhibit cholesterol-lowering and immune-boosting effects.
    • Tannins: Provide astringent qualities, beneficial in treating diarrhea and promoting wound healing.

    References

    Research Journal of Pharmacy and Technology. (2013). “Phytochemical and Pharmacological Profile of Ichnocarpus frutescens.”

    International Journal of Research – Granthaalayah. (2020). “Phytochemical Screening and Antimicrobial Activity of Medicinal Plants.”

    Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. (2001). Government of India, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Department of Indian Systems of Medicine & Homoeopathy.

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

Arjuna – Terminalia arjuna

Arjuna - Terminalia arjuna

Terminalia arjuna is a large deciduous tree native to India, renowned in Ayurveda for its powerful cardioprotective and antioxidant benefits. Traditionally, its bark has been used as a natural remedy for heart-related ailments, serving as an effective cardiac tonic.

Arjuna Scientific Names

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Clade: Tracheophytes
  • Clade: Angiosperms
  • Clade: Eudicots
  • Order: Myrtales
  • Family: Combretaceae
  • Genus: Terminalia
  • Species: T. arjuna

terminalia arjuna common names

  • English: Arjuna Tree
  • Hindi: Arjun
  • Sanskrit: Arjuna
  • Telugu: Tella Maddi
  • Tamil: Maruthu
  • Kannada: Holematti
  • Malayalam: Neermaruthu

Arjuna Uses

  • Cardiovascular Health – Menopausal women are at higher risk of heart issues. Arjuna strengthens the heart and regulates blood pressure and cholesterol.
  • Blood Pressure Regulation – May help in maintaining optimal blood pressure by vasodilation and improving arterial elasticity.
  • Cholesterol Management – Has lipid-lowering effects, useful in managing total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides.
  • Wound Healing – Known for its astringent and healing properties in skin wounds and ulcers.
  • Antioxidant Properties – Contains compounds that help in combating oxidative stress and protecting heart tissues.
  • for Osteoporosis – Arjuna is rich in calcium and other minerals, which may aid in maintaining bone density.

    • Phytochemical Constituents

    • Triterpenoids: Arjunic acid, Arjunolic acid
    • Flavonoids: Arjunone, Arjunolone
    • Saponins: Arjunoside I–IV
    • Tannins: Catechins, Ellagic acid
    • Glycosides

      • Minerals: Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc

    References

    Sharma, P. V. (2005). Dravyaguna Vijnana Vol. 2. Chaukhambha Bharati Academy.

    Government of India. (2001). The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, Part I, Vol. I, Ministry of AYUSH.

    Dwivedi, S. (2007). Terminalia arjuna Wight & Arn.—A useful drug for cardiovascular disorders. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 114(2), 114–129. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2007.08.003

    Kapoor, L. D. (2001). Handbook of Ayurvedic Medicinal Plants. CRC Press.

    Karthikeyan, K., Bai, B. R., & Gauthaman, K. (2003). Cardioprotective activity of the alcoholic extract of Terminalia arjuna bark in an in vivo model of myocardial ischemic reperfusion injury. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 88(2-3), 133–140.

MAMEJVA (Enicostemma littorale)

MAMEJVA (Enicostemma littorale)

Mamejva (Enicostemma littorale Blume), also known as Indian Whitehead or Chhota Chirayata, is a small perennial herb belonging to the Gentianaceae family. It is widely distributed in India and other tropical countries. Traditionally, Mamejva has been valued for its potent antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antimalarial, hepatoprotective, and antioxidant properties, making it a significant herb in Ayurveda, Siddha, and folk medicine.

Scientific Classification

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Eudicots
  • Order: Gentianales
  • Family: Gentianaceae
  • Genus: Enicostemma
  • Species: Enicostemma littorale Blume

Common Names

  • English: Indian Whitehead, Indian Gentian
  • Sanskrit: Mamajjaka
  • Hindi: Mamejvo, Nayi
  • Gujarati: Mamejavo
  • Tamil: Vellarugu
  • Telugu: Vellaku
  • Kannada: Nelavarike

Traditional and Medicinal Uses

  • Antidiabetic Action – Widely used in Ayurvedic and Siddha medicine to manage type 2 diabetes by enhancing insulin sensitivity and reducing blood glucose levels.
  • Hepatoprotective Properties – Protects liver tissues from damage due to toxins or oxidative stress, commonly used in jaundice and hepatitis treatments.
  • Anti-inflammatory & Analgesic – Reduces inflammation and pain, making it suitable for arthritic and musculoskeletal conditions.
  • Antioxidant Benefits – Rich in phytochemicals that scavenge free radicals, preventing cell damage.
  • Antimalarial and Antipyretic – Traditionally used in the treatment of malaria, fever, and intermittent fever.

    • Phytochemical Constituents

    Mamejva contains several bioactive compounds that account for its diverse pharmacological effects:

    • Swertiamarin – A secoiridoid glycoside with antidiabetic action
    • Gentiopicroside – Bitter iridoid with liver protective properties
    • Enicoflavine – A unique flavonoid alkaloid
    • Saponins – Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial
    • Triterpenoids – Immunomodulatory
    • Phenolic Compounds – Antioxidant activities
    • Flavonoids – Such as apigenin and luteolin

    References

    Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Part I, Volume IV, Govt. of India, Ministry of AYUSH.

    Patel, M.B., & Mishra, S.H. (2011). Hypoglycemic activity of alkaloidal fraction of Enicostemma littorale Blume leaves in normal and diabetic rats. Indian Journal of Pharmacology, 43(3), 290–294.

    Kar, A., & Choudhary, B.K. (2003). Prevention of thyroxine-induced hyperglycaemia by Enicostemma littorale Blume extract in rats. Indian Journal of Experimental Biology, 41, 885–888.

    Jain, A., & Soni, M. (2012). Evaluation of anti-inflammatory activity of Enicostemma littorale Blume. Journal of Pharmacy Research, 5(1), 531–533.

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

    Kirtikar, K.R., & Basu, B.D. (1935). Indian Medicinal Plants, Vol. 2. International Book Distributors.

    European Pharmacopoeia, 10th Edition, Council of Europe (for comparative phytochemical references).

    Singh, D., & Singh, R. (2010). Pharmacognostical and phytochemical evaluation of Enicostemma littorale Blume. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Review and Research, 5(3), 68–72.

Turmeric / Haldar (Curcuma longa Linn.)

turmeric

“Turmeric (Curcuma longa Linn.) is a perennial herbaceous plant known for its vibrant yellow rhizomes, commonly used as a spice, dye, and medicinal remedy. Belonging to the Zingiberaceae family, Its active compound, curcumin, is renowned for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.

Turmeric Scientific Name

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Monocots
  • Order: Zingiberales
  • Family: Zingiberaceae
  • Genus: Curcuma
  • Species: Curcuma longa

Turmeric Common Name

  • English: Turmeric
  • Sanskrit: Haridra, Nishā
  • Hindi: Haldi
  • Tamil: Manjal
  • Telugu: Pasupu
  • Bengali: Halud
  • Marathi: Halad
  • Malayalam: Manjal

Turmeric Uses

  • Anti-inflammatory and Pain Relief – Used for treating arthritis, muscle pain, and inflammatory skin conditions.
  • Skin and Wound Healing – Applied topically to aid wound healing, treat eczema, psoriasis, and fungal infections.
  • Digestive Health – Helps stimulate appetite, soothes bloating, supports healthy digestion, and eases discomfort by acting as a natural carminative.
  • Liver and Metabolic Support – Known to support liver detoxification and manage conditions like fatty liver disease.
  • Immune and Respiratory System – Used in formulations to enhance immunity and manage coughs, colds, and asthma.
  • Antioxidant and Anti-cancer Potential – Curcumin shows potential in reducing oxidative stress and inhibiting tumor cell proliferation in experimental studies.

    • Phytochemical Constituents

    The major bioactive compounds found in turmeric include:

    • Curcuminoids: Curcumin, Demethoxycurcumin, Bisdemethoxycurcumin
    • Volatile Oils: Turmerone, Atlantone, Zingiberene
    • Other Compounds: Flavonoids, Tannins, Saponins, Polysaccharides
    • Minerals: Iron, Potassium, Manganese

    References

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

    Indian Herbal Pharmacopoeia, Vol. I (1998), Joint publication of RRL, Jammu & IDMA, Mumbai.

    Gupta, S.C., Patchva, S., & Aggarwal, B.B. (2013). “Therapeutic roles of curcumin: lessons learned from clinical trials.” AAPS Journal, 15(1), 195–218.

    Ammon, H.P.T., & Wahl, M.A. (1991). “Pharmacology of Curcuma longa.” Planta Medica, 57(1), 1–7.

    Lao, C.D., et al. (2006). “Dose escalation of a curcuminoid formulation.” Clinical Cancer Research, 12(4), 1207–1211.

    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.

    Williamson, E.M. (2002). Major Herbs of Ayurveda. Churchill Livingstone.

Bavchi

Bavchi - Psoralea corylifolia

Bavchi (Psoralea corylifolia), commonly known as “Babchi,” is a medicinal herb widely recognized in traditional systems like Ayurveda and Unani. It is a member of the Fabaceae family and is predominantly found in the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The plant is known for its seeds, which have been used for centuries in treating skin conditions like psoriasis, vitiligo, and leprosy, among others.

scientific classification

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Eudicots
  • Order: Fabales
  • Family: Fabaceae
  • Genus: Psoralea
  • Species: Psoralea corylifolia

Common Names

  • English: Bavchi, Babchi
  • Sanskrit: Bakuchi
  • Hindi: Bakuchi
  • Tamil: Vikuchi
  • Telugu: Bakuchi
  • Bengali: Bakuchi

Traditional and Medicinal Uses

  • Skin Disorders – Bavchi seeds are commonly used in traditional medicine to help manage skin disorders like psoriasis and vitiligo. The active compound psoralen helps in promoting skin pigmentation and alleviating skin inflammation.
  • Leprosy and Other Skin Infections – Traditionally, Bavchi is applied topically for treating leprosy, eczema, fungal infections, and scabies due to its strong antimicrobial properties.
  • Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects – The plant is rich in flavonoids and coumarins, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities.

    • Phytochemical Constituents

    Bavchi is known to contain a range of bioactive compounds that contribute to its medicinal efficacy:

    • Psoralens (Psoralen, Isopsoralen)
    • Flavonoids: Luteolin, Apigenin
    • Coumarins: Scopoletin, Isosclareol
    • Terpenes: β-sitosterol, β-caryophyllene
    • Phenolic Acids: Caffeic acid, Chlorogenic acid

    References

    Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Govt. of India.

    Sharangdhar Samhita, Chapter on Skin Diseases.

    Verma, R.K., & Singh, A.K. (2015). “Phytochemical profile and pharmacological activities of Psoralea corylifolia (Bavchi).” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 170, 82-91.

    Indian Pharmacopoeia, Government of India, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

    Journal of Medicinal Plants Studies, 2013. “Antidiabetic potential of Psoralea corylifolia.” 1(5), 34-41.

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

    Singh, S.K., & Tiwari, P. (2013). “Psoralea corylifolia: A potential plant for skin disorders.” Pharmacognosy Reviews, 7(14), 28-35.

RASNA (Pluchea lanceolata)

RASNA (Pluchea lanceolata)

Rasna (Pluchea lanceolata C.B.Clarke) is a well-known medicinal plant in Ayurveda, traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-rheumatic properties. It is a perennial shrub native to the Indian subcontinent and often used in formulations targeting joint pain, swelling, and vata disorders. Rasna plays a vital role in traditional Ayurvedic formulations such as Rasnadi Kashayam, Rasnadi Churna, and Maharasnadi Kwath.

Rasna Scientific Names

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Clade: Angiosperms
  • Clade: Eudicots
  • Order: Asterales
  • Family: Asteraceae
  • Genus: Pluchea
  • Species: Pluchea lanceolata (DC.) C.B.Clarke

Pluchea lanceolata Common Names

  • English: Rasna, Pluchea
  • Sanskrit: Rasna
  • Hindi: Rasna
  • Gujarati: Rasan
  • Punjabi: Rasna
  • Kannada: Rasnay
  • Tamil: Ilaiyam
  • Telugu: Rasnaaku
  • Malayalam: Rasnakkiray

Rasna Uses

  • Anti-inflammatory & Analgesic – Used to manage arthritis, rheumatism, and sciatica due to its vata-pacifying and inflammation-reducing properties.
  • Musculoskeletal Disorders – Beneficial in treating joint stiffness, muscle pain, and swelling pain.
  • Fever and Cold – Acts as a febrifuge in traditional preparations.
  • Digestive Support – Sometimes used in formulations to relieve abdominal pain and improve appetite.
  • Postnatal Care – Included in post-delivery formulations to aid recovery from muscle strain and body pain.

    • Phytochemical Constituents

    Pluchea lanceolata is rich in a variety of bioactive constituents, which contribute to its therapeutic properties:

    • Flavonoids: Quercetin, Kaempferol
    • Terpenoids: β-Sitosterol, Stigmasterol
    • Steroids: Lupeol
    • Alkaloids: Plucheine
    • Phenolic compounds: Caffeic acid derivatives, Gallic acid
    • Essential oils: Caryophyllene, Humulene

    References

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

    Sharma, P. V. (1999). Dravyaguna Vigyan (Materia Medica-Vegetable Drugs), Vol. II. Chaukhambha Bharati Academy, Varanasi.

    Nadkarni, K.M. (2002). Indian Materia Medica, Vol. 1. Popular Prakashan.

    Jain, A., & Jain, S. (2012). “Pharmacognostic and phytochemical investigations of Pluchea lanceolata (DC.) C.B.Clarke.” International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, 3(2), 553-558.

    Rani, A., et al. (2011). “Anti-inflammatory and analgesic potential of Pluchea lanceolata leaves.” Journal of Pharmacy Research, 4(8), 2702-2704.

    European Pharmacopoeia, 10th Edition. Council of Europe.

    Khare, C.P. (2007). Indian Medicinal Plants: An Illustrated Dictionary. Springer Science.

    Mukherjee, P.K. (2002). Quality Control of Herbal Drugs. Business Horizons Publishers.

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