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Kalonji (Nigella sativa)

Kalonji (Nigella sativa)

Kalonji (Nigella sativa), often known as black cumin or black seed, is a small blooming plant that is native to South and Southwest Asia. It belongs to the Ranunculaceae family.

Kalonji Scientific Name

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Eudicots
  • Order: Ranunculales
  • Family: Ranunculaceae
  • Genus: Nigella
  • Species: Nigella sativa

Kalonji Common Name

  • English: Black Seed, Black Cumin
  • Sanskrit: Krishna Jiraka, Kalika
  • Hindi: Kalonji
  • Urdu: Kalonji
  • Tamil: Karunjeeragam
  • Telugu: Nalla Jilakara
  • Marathi: Kala Jeera
  • Arabic: Habbat al-Barakah (Seed of Blessing)

Kalonji Uses

  • Digestive Support – Helps improve appetite and gastrointestinal motility.
  • Respiratory Health – Used to treat asthma, bronchitis, cough, and sinus issues.
  • Immune System Support – Traditionally used for fever, flu, and general immunity boosting.
  • Anti-Diabetic and Metabolic Regulation – Helps regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for diabetic patients.
  • Skin and Hair Health – Treats eczema, acne, and other skin conditions, Strengthens hair roots, prevents hair loss and graying.
  • Reproductive Health – Promotes menstrual balance and lactation in women, Used as a general reproductive tonic.

    • Phytochemical Constituents

      Kalonji seeds are rich in volatile oils, alkaloids, and antioxidants. Major bioactive compounds include:

    • Thymoquinone – Main active ingredient having antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer effects.
    • Nigellidine & Nigellicine – Alkaloids with neuroprotective and antimicrobial actions.
    • Carvacrol, p-Cymene, and α-Thujene – Provide antifungal and antibacterial benefits.
    • Palmitic, oleic, and linoleic acids – Beneficial fatty acids.
    • Vitamins and Minerals – Including iron, calcium, zinc, and B-complex.

    References

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

    Unani Pharmacopoeia of India, Part I, Vol II. Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM).

    Ahmad, A. et al. (2013). “A review on therapeutic potential of Nigella sativa: A miracle herb.” Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, 3(5), 337–352.

    Ali, B.H. and Blunden, G. (2003). “Pharmacological and toxicological properties of Nigella sativa.” Phytotherapy Research, 17(4), 299–305.

    Ghosheh, O.A. et al. (1999). “High performance liquid chromatographic analysis of the pharmacologically active thymoquinone in Nigella sativa seeds.” Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis, 19(5), 819–823.

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

    European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy (ESCOP), Monographs on the medicinal uses of plant drugs, Nigella sativa.

Javitri (Myristica fragrans – Arillus)

Javitri (Myristica fragrans – Arillus)

Javitri (Myristica fragrans – Arillus) is the dried lacy covering of the nutmeg seed, commonly known as Mace in English. Although it is extensively grown in tropical locations, it is native to the Spice Islands (Indonesia) and is a member of the Myristicaceae family. Javintri is used as a culinary spice and as a medicinal plant because of its potent aroma.

Javitri Scientific Name

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Magnoliids
  • Order: Magnoliales
  • Family: Myristicaceae
  • Genus: Myristica
  • Species: Myristica fragrans
  • Part Used: Arillus (Mace)

Myristica fragrans Common Name

  • English: Mace
  • Hindi: Javitri / Javintri
  • Sanskrit: Jatiphala patra
  • Tamil: Jathi Pathiri
  • Telugu: Jajikaya Pathri
  • Malayalam: Jathipathri
  • Marathi: Jaypatri
  • Bengali: Jayitri

Javitri Uses

  • Digestive Aid – Stimulates digestive enzymes, helps treat indigestion, flatulence, nausea, and vomiting.
  • Nervine Tonic – Used in nervous disorders, anxiety, and to promote calmness; acts as a mild sedative.
  • Aphrodisiac – Considered libido-enhancing in Ayurveda and Unani traditions.
  • Oral and Dental Health – Antiseptic properties help treat gum infections and bad breath.
  • Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant – Rich in essential oils that possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity.
  • Antimicrobial Properties – Shows antibacterial and antifungal activity—used for skin infections and wound healing.
  • Menstrual Health – Helps relieve menstrual cramps and regulate irregular cycles.

    • Phytochemical Constituents

      Among the many bioactive substances and volatile oils found in mace are:

    • Essential Oils: Myristicin, Safrole, Eugenol, Elemicin
    • Phenolic Compounds: Malabaricone C, Lignans
    • Triterpenes: Ursolic acid, β-Sitosterol
    • Flavonoids: Quercetin, Kaempferol
    • Fixed Oils: Myristic acid, Palmitic acid
    • Alkaloids: Myristicin (responsible for psychoactive effect in high doses)

    References

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

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

    Trease, G.E., & Evans, W.C. (2002). Pharmacognosy, 15th Ed. Saunders.

    Pua, T.L., et al. (2020). “Phytochemical properties and medicinal uses of Myristica fragrans (nutmeg and mace).” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 258, 112907.

    European Medicines Agency (EMA). (2011). Assessment report on Myristica fragrans Houtt., European Medicines Agency, Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products.

    Rani, P., & Khullar, N. (2004). “Antimicrobial evaluation of some medicinal plants for their anti-enteric potential against multi-drug resistant Salmonella typhi.” Phytotherapy Research, 18(8), 670–673.

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

JAIPHAL / Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans)

JAIPHAL / Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans)

Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) is a highly aromatic spice derived from the seeds of the nutmeg tree, native to the Banda Islands in Indonesia. It belongs to the Myristicaceae family. Both the seed (nutmeg) and the aril (mace) are valued for their culinary and medicinal properties.

JAIPHAL Scientific Name

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Magnoliids
  • Order: Magnoliales
  • Family: Myristicaceae
  • Genus: Myristica
  • Species: Myristica fragrans

JAIPHAL Common Name

  • English: Nutmeg
  • Sanskrit: Jatiphala, Jatika
  • Hindi: Jaiphal
  • Tamil: Jathikai
  • Telugu: Jajikaya
  • Malayalam: Jathikka
  • Kannada: Jajikai
  • Bengali: Jaiphal
  • Marathi: Jaiphal

JAIPHAL Uses

  • Digestive Aid – Relieves indigestion, diarrhea, bloating, and flatulence.
  • Nervine Tonic & Sedative – Calms the nervous system, helpful in insomnia, anxiety, and mental fatigue.
  • Respiratory Support – Useful in coughs, asthma, and bronchitis due to its antitussive and expectorant action.
  • Aphrodisiac Properties – Traditionally used as a sexual tonic in male reproductive disorders.
  • Anti-inflammatory and Antimicrobial – Shows anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activities that support wound healing and oral care.

    • Phytochemical Constituents

      Jaiphal is rich in volatile oils, phenolics, and alkaloids that give it its therapeutic value.

    • Essential Oils: Myristicin, Elemicin, Safrole, Eugenol
    • Phenolic Compounds: Lignans, Flavonoids
    • Triterpenes: Myristic acid, Tetradecanoic acid
    • Alkaloids: Myristicine (psychoactive), Trimyristin
    • Others: Saponins, Starch, Mucilage

    References

    Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Part I, Vol. 4. Govt. of India, Ministry of AYUSH.

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

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

    Leela, N.K. (2008). “Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.): A spice for oral health.” Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, 2(12), 360–366.

    European Medicines Agency (EMA). “Assessment report on Myristica fragrans Houtt., semen.” Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products (HMPC), 2012.

    Evans, W.C. (2009). Trease and Evans’ Pharmacognosy, 16th Edition. Saunders Elsevier.

    Srinivasan, K. (2005). “Role of spices beyond food flavoring: Nutraceuticals with multiple health effects.” Food Reviews International, 21(2), 167–188.

Isabgol (Plantago ovata)

Isabgol (Plantago ovata)

Isabgol (Plantago ovata Forssk.) is a small herbaceous plant native to India and the Mediterranean region. The seed husk, commonly known as psyllium husk, is widely used for its high mucilage content, primarily as a natural laxative and dietary fiber supplement. It is renowned for its gentle yet effective action in managing constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and cholesterol levels.

Isabgol Scientific Name

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Eudicots
  • Order: Lamiales
  • Family: Plantaginaceae
  • Genus: Plantago
  • Species: Plantago ovata Forssk

Isabgol Common Name

  • English: Psyllium Husk, Blond Psyllium
  • Sanskrit: Ashwakarna, Shankhapushpi
  • Hindi: Isabgol
  • Gujarati: Isabgol
  • Marathi: Isabgol
  • Tamil: Isappukol
  • Telugu: Isapagola

Isabgol Uses

  • Digestive Health – Acts as a bulk-forming laxative by absorbing water and forming a gel-like mass that eases bowel movement.
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) – Helps in managing IBS symptoms, particularly alternating constipation and diarrhea, by regulating bowel movements.
  • Cholesterol and Heart Health – Aids in reducing LDL (bad cholesterol) by binding bile acids and lowering their reabsorption.
  • Diabetes Support – Delays glucose absorption, helping in better glycemic control for Type 2 diabetes patients.
  • Weight Management – Increases satiety and reduces hunger cravings by forming a viscous gel, which slows digestion.

    • Phytochemical Constituents

      Isabgol contains high amounts of soluble and insoluble fiber, mucilage, and several active phytochemicals:

    • Mucilage (20–30%) – Primary active agent; forms a gelatinous mass on hydration
    • Aucubin – Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial
    • Plantamajoside – Antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties
    • Iridoid glycosides – Contribute to mild laxative effect
    • Tannins, Fixed Oils, Proteins, Polysaccharides

    References

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

    Indian Herbal Pharmacopoeia (2002), Indian Drug Manufacturers’ Association (IDMA) & RRL, CSIR.

    Vohora, S.B., & Khan, M.S.Y. (1978). “Analgesic and anti-inflammatory studies on Plantago ovata.” Planta Medica, 34, 225–228.

    Marlett, J.A., & Fischer, M.H. (2003). “The active fraction of psyllium husk.” Proceedings of the Nutrition Society, 62(1), 207–209.

    Anderson, J.W. et al. (2000). “Long-term cholesterol-lowering effects of psyllium as an adjunct to diet therapy in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia.” The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 71(6), 1433–1438.

    The 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.

    British Herbal Pharmacopoeia (1996). Psyllium Monograph, British Herbal Medicine Association.

HARITAKI (Terminalia chebula)

HARITAKI (Terminalia chebula)

Haritaki (Terminalia chebula) is a prized medicinal plant in Ayurveda, commonly referred to as the “King of Medicines” due to its wide therapeutic benefits. It is known for its strong laxative, restorative, and cleansing qualities and is a member of the Combretaceae family. One of the three fruits in the traditional Triphala mixture is Haritaki.

Haritaki Scientific Name

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Eudicots
  • Order: Myrtales
  • Family: Combretaceae
  • Genus: Terminalia
  • Species: Terminalia chebula

terminalia chebula common name

  • English: Chebulic Myrobalan
  • Sanskrit: Haritaki, Abhaya, Pathya
  • Hindi: Harad
  • Tamil: Kadukkai
  • Telugu: Karakkaya
  • Malayalam: Katukka
  • Bengali: Haritaki
  • Marathi: Hirda
  • Gujarati: Harade

terminalia chebula uses

  • Digestive Health – Acts as a mild laxative, supports colon cleansing, and relieves constipation.
  • Rejuvenation and Longevity – Classified as a Rasayana in Ayurveda, promoting longevity, vitality, and cellular regeneration.
  • Respiratory and Immune Support – Used in respiratory ailments such as cough, asthma, and sore throat due to its antimicrobial and expectorant effects.
  • Antioxidant and Detoxification – Helps in detoxifying the body, reducing oxidative stress, and removing free radicals.
  • Metabolic and Blood Sugar Support – Traditionally used to manage diabetes, improve insulin sensitivity, and maintain healthy lipid profiles.

    • Phytochemical Constituents

      Haritaki is rich in diverse bioactive compounds that contribute to its pharmacological activities:

    • Tannins: Chebulagic acid, Chebulinic acid, Gallic acid
    • Phenolic Compounds: Ellagic acid, Corilagin
    • Glycosides: Arjunglucoside, Arjunetin
    • Flavonoids: Quercetin, Luteolin
    • Fatty Acids: Palmitic acid, Stearic acid
    • Amino Acids: Leucine, Isoleucine
    • Others: β-Sitosterol, Fructose, Sorbitol

    References

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

    Sharma, P. V. (1996). Dravyaguna Vijnana, Vol. 2. Chaukhambha Bharati Academy.

    Saleem, A., Husheem, M., Härkönen, P., & Pihlaja, K. (2002). “Inhibition of cancer cell growth by crude extract and the phenolics of Terminalia chebula Retz. fruit.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 81(3), 327–336.

    Srinivasan, V. S., & Ramani, R. (2011). “Phytochemical and pharmacological review of Terminalia chebula.” International Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Pharmacy, 2(5), 1452–1456.

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

    European Medicines Agency (EMA). (2017). Assessment report on Terminalia chebula Retz. fructus.

    Jagtap, A. G., & Karkera, S. G. (1999). “Potential of the aqueous extract of Terminalia chebula as an anti-caries agent.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 68(1-3), 299–306.

GARMALO (Cassia fistula)

GARMALO (Cassia fistula)

Garmalo (Cassia fistula), also known as the Indian Laburnum, is a fast-growing deciduous tree native to the Indian subcontinent. It belongs to the Fabaceae family and is widely recognized for its bright yellow flowers and long, cylindrical seed pods. In Ayurveda and traditional systems of medicine, Garmalo is valued for its laxative, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, especially its pulp, which is used as a gentle natural laxative.

Cassia fistula Scientific Name

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Eudicots
  • Order: Fabales
  • Family: Fabaceae
  • Genus: Cassia
  • Species: Cassia fistula

Cassia fistula Common Name

  • English: Golden Shower Tree, Indian Laburnum
  • Sanskrit: Aragvadha
  • Hindi: Amaltas
  • Gujarati: Garmalo
  • Tamil: Konrai
  • Telugu: Rela
  • Marathi: Bahava
  • Malayalam: Kanikkonna
  • Kannada: Kakke

Cassia fistula Uses

  • Digestive System – The pulp of the fruit is a mild and safe laxative, commonly used for treating constipation in children and adults.
  • Skin Disorders – Used externally for skin infections, boils, and inflammation due to its antibacterial and antiseptic effects.
  • Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic – The stem bark and leaves are used to reduce swelling and pain in rheumatism and arthritis.
  • Antipyretic and Antimicrobial – Decoctions of bark and leaves are used in traditional remedies for fever, worm infestations, and urinary tract infections.
  • Detoxifier and Blood Purifier – Referred to as “Aragvadha” in Ayurveda, meaning “disease killer,” it is used in formulations for detoxification and blood purification.

    • Phytochemical Constituents

      Cassia fistula contains a variety of bioactive constituents responsible for its pharmacological properties:

    • Anthraquinones: Rhein, Emodin, Chrysophanol – responsible for laxative and antimicrobial activity
    • Flavonoids: Kaempferol, Luteolin – contribute to anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
    • Tannins: Found in bark, they have antibacterial and astringent properties.
    • Glycosides: Sennosides – act as natural purgatives
    • Sterols: Sitosterol – supports anti-inflammatory function
    • Coumarins and Resins: aid in the healing and detoxification processes

    References

    Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Govt. of India, Vol. II, Part I, First Edition, Page 13–15.

    Indian Herbal Pharmacopoeia, Revised Edition, IDMA & RRL (CSIR), 2002.

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

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

    Gupta, A.K., Tandon, N., & Sharma, M. (2005). Quality Standards of Indian Medicinal Plants, ICMR, Vol. 2.

    Satyavathi, G.V., Gupta, A.K., & Neeraj, T. (1976). Medicinal Plants of India, ICMR, Vol. I.

    Meena, A.K., Rao, M.M., & Padhi, M.M. (2010). “Review on pharmacological and phytochemical properties of Cassia fistula Linn.” Journal of Natural Remedies, 10(2), 102–109.

    Sharma, P.V. (1999). Dravyaguna Vijnana (Materia Medica – Vegetable Drugs), Vol. II, Chaukhambha Bharati Academy.

Gandhpuro oil ( Gaultheria fragrantissima )

Gandhpuro oil ( Gaultheria fragrantissima )

Gandhapura oil, derived from the leaves of Gaultheria fragrantissima, is a natural essential oil traditionally used for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties. Known for its characteristic methyl salicylate content, the oil is highly effective in treating muscular pain, joint stiffness, rheumatism, and headaches.

Scientific Classification

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Eudicots
  • Order: Ericales
  • Family: Ericaceae
  • Genus: Gaultheria
  • Species: Gaultheria fragrantissima

Common Names

  • English: Wintergreen Oil, Sweet Birch Oil
  • Sanskrit: Gandhapura Taila
  • Hindi: Gandhapura Ka Tel
  • Tamil: Gandhapura Ennai
  • Telugu: Gandhapura Tailam
  • Bengali: Gandhapur Tel
  • Marathi: Gandhapur Tel

Traditional and Medicinal Uses

  • Musculoskeletal Pain Relief – Used topically to relieve arthritis, joint pain, muscle cramps, and backaches.
  • Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic Use – Contains methyl salicylate, which mimics the effects of aspirin to reduce inflammation and pain.
  • Skin Care and Antiseptic Use – Used in treating minor wounds, insect bites, and skin infections due to its antiseptic nature.
  • Respiratory Aid – In vapor form, it helps relieve nasal congestion and sinusitis.
  • Dental Applications – Incorporated into mouthwashes and toothpastes for its antimicrobial and flavoring properties.

      • Gandhapura oil’s primary bioactive compounds include:

    • Methyl Salicylate (90–98%) – Major compound responsible for analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity.
    • Gaultherin – Methyl salicylate is produced by hydrolyzing a glycoside.
    • Eugenol – Minor constituent with antiseptic properties.
    • Linalool & Cineole – Provide mild antimicrobial and aromatic qualities.

    References

    Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, Part 1, Volume II, Ministry of AYUSH, Govt. of India.

    Indian Materia Medica – Nadkarni, K.M. (1954). Popular Prakashan, Mumbai.

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

    National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). PubChem Compound Summary for CID 4136, Methyl Salicylate.

    Tiwari, R. et al. (2010). “Pharmacological Aspects of Gaultheria fragrantissima.” Pharmacognosy Reviews, 4(8), 187–190.

    European Pharmacopoeia, 10th Edition.

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

Garlic (Allium sativum)

Garlic (Allium sativum)

Garlic (Allium sativum) is a bulbous perennial herb belonging to the Amaryllidaceae family. Widely used as a spice and traditional remedy, garlic is revered for its strong antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cardioprotective properties.

Garlic Scientific Name

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Monocots
  • Order: Asparagales
  • Family: Amaryllidaceae
  • Genus: Allium
  • Species: Allium sativum

Garlic Common Name

  • English: Garlic
  • Sanskrit: Lashuna
  • Hindi: Lahsun
  • Tamil: Poondu
  • Telugu: Vellulli
  • Malayalam: Veluthulli
  • Gujarati: Lasan
  • Marathi: Lasun
  • Bengali: Roshun

Garlic Uses

  • Cardiovascular Support – Garlic helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis.
  • Antimicrobial and Antifungal – Contains natural antibiotic compounds effective against a wide range of bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
  • Immunity Booster – Enhances the immune response, supports detoxification, and helps fight infections.
  • Antioxidant & Anti-inflammatory – Scavenges free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
  • Digestive and Respiratory Health – Acts as a digestive stimulant and is used traditionally for cold, cough, and bronchitis.
  • Anti-diabetic & Metabolic Health – Supports blood sugar regulation and may improve insulin sensitivity.

    • References

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

    European Pharmacopoeia, 10th Edition, Council of Europe.

    Banerjee, S.K., & Maulik, S.K. (2002). “Effect of garlic on cardiovascular disorders: a review.” Nutrition Journal, 18(6), 704–711.

    Amagase, H., Petesch, B.L., Matsuura, H., Kasuga, S., & Itakura, Y. (2001). “Intake of garlic and its bioactive components.” Journal of Nutrition, 131(3s), 955S–962S.

    Ankri, S., & Mirelman, D. (1999). “Antimicrobial properties of allicin from garlic.” Microbes and Infection, 1(2), 125–129.

    Rivlin, R.S. (2001). “Historical perspective on the use of garlic.” Journal of Nutrition, 131(3s), 951S–954S.

    The Wealth of India, (2003), CSIR, New Delhi.

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

    Ross, I.A. (2001). Medicinal Plants of the World: Chemical Constituents, Traditional and Modern Medicinal Uses. Vol. 2. Totowa, NJ: Humana Press.

GUNJA (Abrus precatorius)

GUNJA (Abrus precatorius)

Gunja (Abrus precatorius) is a slender, perennial climber known for its bright red seeds with a black spot, often referred to as “rosary peas.” Belonging to the Fabaceae family, Gunja is known for its potent medicinal and toxic properties. In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, it is used in extremely minute quantities for treating various ailments like hair fall, skin diseases, and nervous disorders, after undergoing a specific detoxification process called shodhana.

Gunja Scientific Name

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Eudicots
  • Order: Fabales
  • Family: Fabaceae
  • Genus: Abrus
  • Species: Abrus precatorius

Abrus precatorius Common Name

  • English: Rosary Pea, Jequirity
  • Sanskrit: Gunja, Raktika
  • Hindi: Ratti, Chirmi
  • Tamil: Kunni
  • Telugu: Gurivinda
  • Malayalam: Kunni kuru
  • Marathi: Gunja
  • Kannada: Gulaganji

Abrus precatorius Uses

  • Hair and Scalp Health – Used externally in medicated oils to promote hair growth and manage alopecia.
  • Neurological Disorders – Known for its nervine tonic effects in minute, processed doses, Used in Ayurvedic formulations for conditions like epilepsy and paralysis.
  • Aphrodisiac and Reproductive Health – Considered an aphrodisiac in classical texts, Used to stimulate libido and treat male infertility.
  • Skin Diseases – Applied topically for leucoderma, eczema, and other dermatological issues.
  • Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic – Seed and leaf extracts show anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties in various traditional uses.

    • References

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

    Bhavaprakasha Nighantu, Gunjaadi Varga – Commentary by Sri Brahmashankara Mishra.

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

    M. P. Sharma, R. Yelne, T. J. Dennis. (2002). Database on Medicinal Plants Used in Ayurveda. CCRAS, Ministry of AYUSH.

    Singh, S., & Pandey, S. (2012). “Toxicological and pharmacological profile of Abrus precatorius L.: A review.” International Journal of Pharmacy & Life Sciences, 3(6), 1614–1621.

    Bhalla, T. N., & Gupta, M. B. (1970). “Pharmacological investigations on Abrus precatorius.” Indian Journal of Pharmacology, 2(1), 7–12.

    World Health Organization (WHO) Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, Vol. 3.

Eranda (Ricinus communis L.)

Eranda (Ricinus communis L.)

Eranda (Ricinus communis L.) is a fast-growing, perennial or annual shrub native to the tropical regions of Africa and India, now cultivated worldwide for its medicinal seeds and oil. It belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family and is widely known for its castor oil, which is used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani. The plant is known for its purgative, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and laxative properties.

Scientific Classification

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Eudicots
  • Order: Malpighiales
  • Family: Euphorbiaceae
  • Genus: Ricinus
  • Species: Ricinus communis L.

Common Names

  • English: Castor Plant
  • Sanskrit: Eranda
  • Hindi: Arand
  • Tamil: Amanakku
  • Telugu: Amudamu
  • Bengali: Rer
  • Gujarati: Andar
  • Marathi: Erand

Traditional and Medicinal Uses

  • Laxative and Purgative – Castor oil from Eranda seeds acts as a strong purgative, used for treating constipation and cleansing the bowels.
  • Anti-inflammatory – The leaves and oil are applied externally for joint pain, arthritis, and inflammatory swellings.
  • Pain Relief – Leaf poultice is traditionally used to relieve muscle pain and neuralgia.
  • Respiratory Health – Used in cough and asthma, especially in Ayurveda, where root decoction is known to reduce Kapha.
  • Gynecological Use – Used in inducing labor and treating postpartum disorders.
  • Hepatoprotective and Antimicrobial – Traditional use includes managing liver disorders and bacterial infections.

Phytochemical Constituents

    Eranda contains various bioactive constituents responsible for its medicinal actions:

  • Fixed Oil: Ricinoleic acid – the primary active component of castor oil; known for its purgative and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Alkaloids: Ricinine – exhibits insecticidal and antimicrobial properties.
  • Proteins: Ricin – a highly toxic protein (inactivated in processed oil).
  • Flavonoids: Kaempferol, Quercetin – possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.
  • Steroids: β-sitosterol – contributes to anti-inflammatory effects.
  • Triterpenoids: Lupeol – known for anti-arthritic properties.

References

Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Part I, Volume 3, Govt. of India, Ministry of AYUSH.

Indian Materia Medica by K.M. Nadkarni, Vol. 1, Popular Prakashan, Mumbai.

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

Duke, J.A. (2002). Handbook of Medicinal Herbs. CRC Press.

Prasad, R., & Raju, B. (2009). “Phytopharmacology of Ricinus communis L. – A review.” International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Review and Research, 1(2), 1-6.

Singh, A., & Singh, D. (2010). “A review on traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activities of Ricinus communis.” Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy, 2(5), 55-60.

European Pharmacopoeia, 10th Edition, Council of Europe.

Sharma, P.V. (2006). Dravyaguna Vijnana, Vol. II, Chaukhamba Bharati Academy, Varanasi.

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