Vidarikand (Ipomoea digitata) is a medicinal plant widely used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine as a rejuvenative, aphrodisiac, and galactagogue. Belonging to the Convolvulaceae family, it is a large, tuberous, climbing herb known for its starchy tubers, which are rich in carbohydrates and medicinal phytoconstituents. The plant plays an important role in treating general debility, sexual weakness, and improving lactation in women
- Fertility Enhancer - Used to enhance male reproductive health by increasing libido and sperm count.
- Galactagogue (Lactation Enhancer) - Promotes breast milk production in postpartum women.
- Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant - Tubers contain compounds with anti-inflammatory action. Helps reduce swelling and internal inflammation.
- Urinary Health - Mild diuretic; supports kidney function and helps in clearing urinary tract infections.
Phytochemical Constituents
The medicinal activity of Ipomoea digitata is attributed to its rich profile of bioactive compounds, especially from its tubers.
- Starch & Sugars: High carbohydrate content (nutritive value)
- Steroids: β-sitosterol, stigmasterol
- Flavonoids: Quercetin, Kaempferol
- Alkaloids: E.g., Convolvine-type alkaloids
- Triterpenoids: Lupeol
- Tannins: Mild astringent properties
- Proteins & Amino Acids: Building blocks for tissue repair
- Phenolic compounds: Antioxidant activity
References
Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Part I, Vol. III – Government of India, Ministry of AYUSH.
Nadkarni, K.M. (1976). Indian Materia Medica, Vol. 1. Popular Prakashan.
Sharma, P.V. (2006). Dravyaguna Vijnana (Materia Medica-Vegetable Drugs). Chaukhambha Bharati Academy.
Anonymous (2008). Quality Standards of Indian Medicinal Plants, Vol. 6. ICMR, New Delhi.
Singh, M., & Rao, M.M. (2012). "Pharmacognostical and phytochemical evaluation of Ipomoea digitata tuber." International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Review and Research, 16(2): 39-42.
Prajapati, N.D., Purohit, S.S., Sharma, A.K., Kumar, T. (2003). A Handbook of Medicinal Plants. Agrobios.
Chatterjee, A., & Pakrashi, S.C. (1997). The Treatise on Indian Medicinal Plants, Vol. 3. CSIR, New Delhi.
European Pharmacopoeia, 10th Edition, Council of Europe.
Reddy, P.S. et al. (2010). “Therapeutic potential of Ipomoea digitata in Ayurveda: A review.” Journal of Global Pharma Technology, 2(4): 10–14.