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.
Commonly known as Ardushi or Vasaka, this small evergreen shrub is found across India. It features lance-shaped leaves and white flowers often tinged with purple. In Ayurveda, it is traditionally valued for its effectiveness in treating respiratory ailments due to its bronchodilator and expectorant properties.
Justicia Adhatoda Scientific Names
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Clade: Tracheophytes
- Clade: Angiosperms
- Clade: Eudicots
- Order: Lamiales
- Family: Acanthaceae
- Genus:Adhatoda
- Species: A. vasica
Justicia Adhatoda Common Names
- Sanskrit: Vasa, Vasaka, Ardushi
- Hindi: Arusa, Bansa
- English: Malabar Nut
- Marathi: Adulsa
- Tamil: Adathodai
- Telugu: Addasaramu
- Malayalam: Atalotakam
Justicia Adhatoda Uses
- Anti-inflammatory – Helps reduce inflammation in respiratory and urinary tract infections.
- Bleeding Disorders – Has hemostatic properties; used for bleeding gums, piles, and nasal bleeding.
- Antioxidant Activity – Reduces oxidative stress and supports overall cellular health.
Phytochemical Constituents
- Alkaloids: Vasicine, Vasicinone (major bioactive components)
- Flavonoids: Luteolin, Apigenin
- Tannins
- Essential oils
- Saponins
- Phenolic compounds
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.
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.
Atal, C. K., & Sethi, P. D. (1975). Pharmacognosy and phytochemistry of Adhatoda vasica. Indian Journal of Pharmacy, 37, 69–71.
Kapoor, L. D. (2001). Handbook of Ayurvedic Medicinal Plants. CRC Press.
Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa) is an evergreen tree native to India, commonly found in the northeastern parts of the country. It holds significant importance in traditional Ayurvedic medicine Ayurvedic medicine due to its wide-ranging therapeutic applications.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Family: Symplocaceae
- Genus: Symplocos
- Species: S. racemosa
Common Names
- Sanskrit: Lodhra
- Hindi: Lodh
- Bengali: Lodhra
- Tamil: Vellilothram
- Telugu: Lodhuga
- Malayalam: Pachotti
- Marathi: Lodhra
- Kannada: Lodhra
- Assamese: Lodhra
- Gujarati: Lodhra
Botanical Description
Lodhra is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree with smooth, grayish-brown bark. It usually reaches a height of 6 meters. The leaves are simple, elliptic, and lance-shaped with a smooth texture. The tree produces fragrant white flowers in clusters.
Medicinal Uses
Menstrual Disorders:Lodhra is traditionally used to manage menstrual irregularities, including menorrhagia (heavy menstrual bleeding), amenorrhea (absence of menstruation), and dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation). Its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties help regulate menstrual flow and alleviate associated discomfort.
Leucorrhea: The herb is effective in treating leucorrhea (abnormal white vaginal discharge) due to its antimicrobial and astringent effects, which help reduce excessive discharge and combat infections.
Uterine Fibroids:Lodhra has been utilized in managing uterine fibroids, benign tumors of the uterus. Its astringent nature aids in reducing excessive menstrual bleeding associated with fibroids.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Studies suggest that Lodhra can help balance hormones, thereby assisting in the management of PCOS. It supports normal estrogen, progesterone, and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels while reducing androgens that can disrupt female reproductive function.
Key Chemical Constituents
Lodhra contains several active chemical compounds that contribute to its medicinal properties:
- Triterpenes: Betulinic acid, oleanolic acid, acetyloleanolic acid.
- Flavonoids: Quercetin and other flavonoid glycosides.
- Phenolic Compounds: Symplocoside, ellagic acid.
- Alkaloids: Loturine, loturidine.
Health Benefits
- Anti-inflammatory: Lodhra has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and reduce pain.
- Antioxidant: It neutralizes free radicals, which can prevent cell damage.
- Astringent: The herb tightens tissues and reduces secretions, making it useful for treating excessive bleeding or discharge.
- Antibacterial: Lodhra’s antimicrobial properties help in treating infections and promoting wound healing.
- Liver Health: It helps detoxify and cleanse the liver.
References:
- Kumar, S., & Kumar, V. (2016). A comprehensive analysis on Symplocos racemosa Roxb. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 181, 236-251.
- Mishra, S. S., & Bapat, S. K. (1964). Preliminary Phytochemical and Pharmacological Study of Symplocos racemosa (Roxb.). Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology, 8(3), 181–188.
- Easy Ayurveda. (2013). Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa) Benefits, Usage, Dose, Side Effects. Retrieved from https://www.easyayurveda.com
- AFDIL. (n.d.). Ashoka and Lodhra in uterine fibroids. Ayurvedic Formulations and Drug Information Laboratory.
- International Journal of Research in Ayurveda & Pharmacy Sciences. (n.d.). Lodhra in gynecological disorders. International Journal of Research in Ayurveda & Pharmacy Sciences, 5(2), 166-187.
- Organic India USA. (n.d.). Lodhra: Benefits for women’s health. Organic India USA Publications.
- Mylo Family. (n.d.). Lodhra: The wonder herb for women’s health. Mylo Health Journal.
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