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.
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 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.
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 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.
- 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.
Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata), commonly known as “King of Bitters,” is a medicinal plant extensively used in Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, and traditional Chinese medicine. It is renowned for its bitter taste and potent anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, antipyretic, and immunomodulatory effects. The plant thrives in tropical and subtropical regions and is widely used in formulations aimed at treating fever, liver disorders, and infections.
Kalmegh Scientific Names
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Phylum: Angiosperms
- Class: Eudicots
- Order: Lamiales
- Family: Acanthaceae
- Genus: Andrographis
- Species: Andrographis paniculata
Andrographis paniculata Common Names
- English: Green Chiretta, King of Bitters
- Sanskrit: Kalmegha, Yavatikta
- Hindi: Kalmegh
- Tamil: Nilavembu
- Telugu: Nelavemu
- Malayalam: Kiriyath
- Kannada: Nelabevu
- Bengali: Kalmegh
- Marathi: Kirayata
Andrographis paniculata Uses
- Liver Health – Used as a hepatoprotective agent, treating jaundice, hepatitis, and fatty liver disorders.
- Antipyretic Action – Traditionally used for reducing fevers, including those caused by malaria, dengue, and viral infections.
- Immune System Support – Acts as an immunomodulator, enhancing the body’s defense mechanisms against infections.
- Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant – Used in inflammatory conditions like arthritis due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
- Digestive Disorders – Aids in managing indigestion, intestinal worms, and appetite loss.
- Antimicrobial Properties – Possesses antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal activity effective in respiratory and gastrointestinal infections.
Phytochemical Constituents
Kalmegh contains several bioactive constituents, primarily diterpenoid lactones and flavonoids, which are responsible for its therapeutic activities:
- Diterpenoids: Andrographolide, Neoandrographolide, Deoxyandrographolide
- Flavonoids: Apigenin, Luteolin
- Xanthones: Andrographidine A, B
- Polyphenols: Caffeic acid, Chlorogenic acid
- Others: Alkaloids, Saponins, Tannins
References
Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, Part I, Volume II, Govt. of India, Ministry of AYUSH.
Nadkarni, K.M. (1976). Indian Materia Medica, Vol. 1, Bombay Popular Prakashan.
Trivedi, P.C. (2006). Medicinal Plants: Ethnobotanical Approach, Agrobios.
Mishra, S.K., Sangwan, N.S., & Sangwan, R.S. (2007). “Andrographis paniculata (Kalmegh): A review.” Pharmacognosy Reviews, 1(2), 283–298.
Akbar, S. (2011). “Andrographis paniculata: A review of pharmacological activities and clinical effects.” Alternative Medicine Review, 16(1), 66–77.
World Health Organization (WHO). Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, Vol. 2, WHO, Geneva.
Chinese Pharmacopoeia Commission (2015). Pharmacopoeia of the People’s Republic of China.
European Medicines Agency (EMA). (2009). “Assessment report on Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) Nees, herba.” Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products.
Leptadenia reticulata (Retz.) Wight & Arn., commonly known as Jivanti, is a perennial twining shrub belonging to the Apocynaceae family. It is esteemed in Ayurveda for its rejuvenating and revitalizing properties. Traditionally, it has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including tuberculosis, emaciation, fever, and respiratory disorders. The plant is also recognized for its lactogenic effects, enhancing milk production in nursing mothers.
Jivanti Scientific Names
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Clade: Tracheophytes
- Clade: Angiosperms
- Clade: Eudicots
- Order: Gentianales
- Family: Apocynaceae
- Genus: Leptadenia
- Species: Leptadenia reticulata
Leptadenia reticulata common names
- English: Cork Swallow-Wort
- Sanskrit: Jivanti, Jivaniya, Hemalata, Payasvini
- Hindi: Dori, Meethi Dodi
- Marathi: Dodi, Khaandodkee
- Tamil: Paalai Keerai
- Telugu: Guttipaala
- Malayalam: Atakodiyan
- Kannada: Bugudi Hoovina Gedde
Jivanti Uses
- Respiratory Health – Used in treating cough, dyspnea (shortness of breath), and asthma.
- Digestive and Metabolic Support – Beneficial in managing emaciation, fever, and dysentery.
- Eye Health – Traditionally used to improve vision and treat night blindness.
- General Vitality – Acts as a rejuvenator, improving overall strength and immunity.
Phytochemical Constituents
Leptadenia reticulata contains a variety of bioactive compounds contributing to its therapeutic effects:
- Steroids: β-sitosterol, stigmasterol
- Flavonoids: Luteolin, diosmetin, rutin, apigenin
- Triterpenes: α-amyrin, β-amyrin, simiarenol
- Phenolic Compounds: Ferulic acid
- Alkaloids: Reticulin, deniculatin, leptaculatin
- Others: Hentricontanol
References
Sharma, R., & Singh, R. (2017). Leptadenia reticulata (Retz.) Wight & Arn. (Jivanti): A Review on Its Phytochemical and Pharmacological Profile. Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry, 6(3), 123-129.
Sulaiman, C. T., Jyothi, C. K., Unnithan, J. K., & Balachandran, I. (2021). Phytochemical comparison and evaluation of anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic activity of three source plants of Jivanti—an important Ayurvedic drug. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7(1), 52.
Rajput, T. A. (2019). A Study on the Phytochemical Properties of Leptadenia Reticulata. Journal of Advances and Scholarly Researches in Allied Education, 16(5), 1323-1328.
Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. (2001). Part I, Volume III. Government of India, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Department of Indian Systems of Medicine & Homoeopathy.
Acharya, R., & Naik, R. (2018). Comparative nutritional evaluation of four botanical source plants of Jivanti: A classical Ayurvedic drug. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, 9(2), 123-129.
Pashanbhed (Bergenia ligulata) is a widely recognized healing herb in Ayurveda and other traditional medicine systems. The name “Pashanbhed” literally translates to “stone-breaker,” reflecting its traditional use in the treatment of urinary stones and kidney disorders. It is a perennial herb that grows in the Himalayan region and is valued for its diuretic, antiurolithiatic, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Pashanbhed Scientific Names
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Phylum: Angiosperms
- Class: Eudicots
- Order: Saxifragales
- Family: Saxifragaceae
- Genus: Bergenia
- Species: Bergenia ligulata
Bergenia ligulata Common Names
- English: Rockfoil, Stone-breaker
- Sanskrit: Pashanbheda, Ashmabhid
- Hindi: Pashanbhed
- Marathi: Pashanbhed
- Tamil: Sirupulai
- Kannada: Ashmabhedi
- Bengali: Patharkuchi
PASHANBHED Uses
- Anti-inflammatory & Antioxidant – Demonstrates significant anti-inflammatory properties, useful in conditions like arthritis and joint pain, Contains antioxidants that help in reducing oxidative stress.
- Hepatoprotective – Protects the liver from damage and enhances its function, often used as an adjuvant in jaundice treatment.
- Wound Healing – Used traditionally in poultices and herbal pastes for promoting wound healing and reducing swelling.
Phytochemical Constituents
The key bioactive compounds found in Bergenia ligulata include:
- Bergenin – Major compound responsible for antiurolithiatic activity.
- Catechin – Potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.
- Gallic Acid – Exhibits antimicrobial and hepatoprotective effects.
- Tannic Acid – Astringent and antimicrobial action.
- Arbutin – Known for antimicrobial and diuretic activity.
- Stigmasterol – Anti-inflammatory and cholesterol-lowering effect.
References
Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, Part I, Vol. III, Govt. of India, Ministry of AYUSH.
Indian Medicinal Plants – A Compendium of 500 Species by P.K. Warrier, V.P.K. Nambiar, C. Ramankutty, Orient Longman.
Chopra, R.N., Nayar, S.L., & Chopra, I.C. (1956). Glossary of Indian Medicinal Plants. CSIR, New Delhi.
Sharma, P.C., Yelne, M.B., & Dennis, T.J. (2005). Database on Medicinal Plants Used in Ayurveda, Vol. 6, CCRAS, New Delhi.
Singh, R., Jain, V., & Gupta, V. (2010). “Bergenia ligulata: A review of its traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacology.” Pharmacognosy Reviews, 4(7), 55–61.
European Medicines Agency (EMA). Herbal monograph on Bergenia ligulata rhizome. Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products (HMPC).
Dash, B., & Kashyap, L. (1980). Materia Medica of Ayurveda. B. Jain Publishers.
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