Ayurvedamagazine

Category: Ayurvedic Herbs

  • Natural Approach to Birth Control

    At a time when population explosion, unintended pregnancies and
    sexually-transmitted diseases continue to cause major public health issues world-wide,
    it’ll be interesting to know how an ancient healthcare system like Ayurveda
    dealt with such problems.      Vaidya Lakshmi Anoop writes:-

    Procreation and no creation, Ayurveda has ways to deal with them.
    Ayurveda suggests Vajikarana therapy for those who wish to conceive. On
    the other hand, Ayurveda has many suggestions for those in need of natural
    contraceptives.

    Like in other areas of healthcare, Ayurveda has developed many methods
    in the practice of contraception. Safe period, coitus interruptus and other
    contraceptive methods have been described very well in Ayurveda texts.
    References about practice of contraception have been available since the period
    of the Vedas. Clinical studies later proved these drugs to be efficacious in
    contraception and without any side-effects.

    Modern methods

    In today’s world, halting conception is not that difficult, for we’ve
    various contraceptives like condoms, spermicidal gels and intra-uterine devices
    besides surgical measures. Not all contraceptive methods are appropriate for
    all situations, and the most appropriate method of birth control depends on a
    woman’s overall health, age, frequency of sexual activity, number of sexual
    partners, desire to have children in the future, and family history of certain
    diseases.

    However, the failure rate of many of these contraceptive methods is
    high. Hormonal contraceptives and intra-uterine devices like Copper-T are
    reported to generate incidents of side-effects. Surgical sterilization in males
    can also cause side-effects. Available local contraceptive measures do not give
    100 percent surety of prevention of conception.

    Contraceptives in Ayurveda

    Ayurveda suggests a low-cost, user-friendly, reliable and side-effect
    free approach for family planning, which is the need of the hour. Many research
    works are on-going in this area. Even the Government of India has recognised
    the role of indigenous systems of medicine in population control. The Central
    Council for Research in Ayurveda and Siddha, New Delhi, and the Central Drug
    Research Institute, Lucknow, are undertaking a lot of research projects on
    indigenous contraceptive methods.

    Regulated sexual life or abstinence from sex was considered as the
    method of contraception in Ayurvedic classics. Ayurveda treatises like Bhava
    Prakash, Yoga Ratnakara, Bhaishajya Ratnavali     etc have mentioned about
    different combinations of herbal and herbo-mineral contraceptive preparations
    for local as well as oral use by men and women.

    Single herbal drugs mentioned in ayurvedic texts are found to have
    anti-ovulatory and anti-implantation activities on pharmacological screening.
    Research on the properties of the herbs proved their efficacy.

    Vidanga (Emblica ribes) — Research studies show that it possesses 83 percent
    antifertility activity.

    Talisa (Abies webbiana) – Research showed that it possesses 51 per cent
    anti-implantation activity.

    Chitraka (Plumbago zeylanica) – It showed anti-fertility, anti-implantation,
    anti-oestrogenic, anti-ovulatory, anti-gonadotrophic activities.

    Nimba (Azadirachta indica) – Its bark extract possesses spermicidal activity.
    It also showed significant decline of sperm motility and sperm density.
    Fructose concentration of seminal vesicles was significantly reduced.

    Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna) – It possesses anti-implantation, anti-zygotic,
    abortifacient properties.

    Nagakesara (Mesua ferrea) – It possesses anti-implantation facilities.

    Japakusuma (Hibiscus rosa sinensis) – Research studies showed that benzene extract
    has 100 percent antifertility effect. It also possesses anti-spermatogenic,
    anti-ovulatory, anti-implantation, abortifacient properties. It exhibited a
    post coital antifertility effect in 80 per cent treated rats.

    Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) leaves — They significantly reduce sperm count and
    motility, increase testosterone levels and decrease LH and FSH. They possess a
    spermatogenic effect. Studies showed that the contraceptive effect of Tulsi
    in male was comparable to female contraceptive pills, which were also
    reversible.

    Haridra (Curcuma longa) – Studies showed that intra-vaginal administration of
    curcuma caused reduction in fertility. It results in reversible suppression of
    spermatogenesis and fertility, thereby suggesting the potential of this plant
    to regulate male fertility. They produce an anti-andro-genic effect.

    Local contraceptives for females

    Vaginal application of moistened Saindhava lavana (rock salt)
    with Tila taila (gingerly oil) before coitus.

    Fumigation of vaginal canal with wood of Neem before coitus.

    Filling the vaginal canal with Dhattura root (Dattura metal) powder
    which is uprooted during 14th day of the first fortnight of lunar
    month.

    The seed of shireesha (Albizia lebbeck) is a potent spermicide.
    It immobilises the human sperm in one minute. It possesses an anti-ovulatory
    and anti-fertility effect. Females can use it as a local application.

    Neem oil (Azadirachta indica) When applied locally, acts as a vaginal
    contraceptive. It possesses spermicidal, anti-ovulatory and anti-implantation
    effects.

    Oral contraceptives for females

    Talisapatra powder (Abies webbiana) and Gairika (Red Ochre, Fe203) in equal parts
    in the dose of 1 karsha (12 gm) acts as a contraceptive.

    Paste of Chitraka (Plumbago zeylanica) root mixed with Nirgundi
    (Vitex negundo) juice and administered in the dose of one karsha (12 gm)
    is an effective contraceptive.

    Powder of sharshapa seeds (Brassica campestris), Tandulam
    (Amaranthus spinosus), Sarkara (Sugar candy) pound with Tandulodaka (rice
    water) when taken with milk prevents conception.

    Powders of amla (Embilca officinalis), Arjuna (Terminalia
    arjuna) and Abhaya (Terminalia chebula), along with water, make the
    follicular development ineffective.

    Haridra (Curcuma longa) rhizome, having knot, is to be given one rhizome per
    day during the three days of menstruation and continued for another three days.

     Powder of Krishna Jeeraka (Carum carvi), Kachooram
    (Hedychium spicatum), Nagakesara (Mesua ferrea), Haritaki
    (Terminalia chebula), Kalonji (Nigella sativa), Kayaphala (Myrica
    nagi) is to be mixed and given as pills in the size of ziziphus fruit (red
    date) for seven days.

    Flowers of Japa (Hibiscus rosa sinensis), if taken immediately
    after the delivery of a child, is said to prevent future conception.

    The entire seeds of cotyledons of white variety of Gunja (Abrus
    precatorius), after removing the epicarp, are to be soaked in water for one
    night. Administration of the potion on the fourth, fifth and sixth day of
    menstruation is stated to prevent misconception for three years.

    Pippali (Piper longum), Vidanga (Embelia ribes) and Tankana
    (borax), made into a powder in equal quantities, and taken with milk during the
    fertile phase, is an effective contraceptive. Experimental studies proved its
    efficacy and there were only two failures amongst 458 users. There is no adverse
    effect on lactation or any other side-effects. The reversibility of fertility
    is stated to be immediate after withdrawal of medication.

    Oral contraceptives for males

    The herb Arka (Calotropis gigantea) inhibits spermatogenesis and
    acts as oral contraceptives for males. Calotropin, a novel compound, is
    responsible for fertility control.

    Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) leaves when administered in the dose of 2 mg daily
    acts as an effective anti-fertility agent in males.

    Haridra (Curcuma longa) extracts induce fertility control in male.

     The natural birth control methods mentioned in Ayurvedic texts
    helps to minimise chances of unwanted pregnancies and prevent
    sexually-transmitted diseases. Contraceptive methods were in use since the time
    of Vedas. Unlike hormonal or other contraceptive methods, Ayurvedic
    contraceptives are free from side effects and are effective. So this vast field
    has to be researched more for benefitting mankind.

     

    (The author Vaidya Lakshmi Anoop is a practicing Ayurvedic physician
    based in Jaipur.)

  • Indian Mint & its medicinal uses

    There are certain
    medicinal plants and herbs that grow easily or found commonly in our compound
    or backyard, but we seldom realize their value. The ‘Indian Mint’ or ‘Indian Borage’
    is effective against fever, cough and breathing difficulty. Noted Ayurvedic
    practitioner,     Dr Pretty Prabhakaran
    writes:-

     

     Scientific name:
    Plectranthus amboinicus

    Family: Lamiaceae

    Names

    Sanskrit:         Ajapatri

    Malayalam:   Panikoorka/Kanjikoorka

    Tamil:             Karpooravalli

    Kannada:       Thottapatri

    Hindi:             Pathar choor

    English:          Indian Borage/Indian mint/Mexican
    mint/Spanish thyme

      

    Morphology

    The plant mainly belongs
    to mint family Lamiaceae, grows up to 0.5 to 1meter. The stem and leaves are
    fleshy and contain water. Leaves are undivided and broad with oval shape. The
    aroma of the plant is very intense. The plant can be cultivated easily by
    planting the stem. Flowers are pale purplish and appear in a long, slender
    spike-like raceme.

    Medicinal uses

    The leaves of the plant are
    mainly used for fever, cough and breathing difficulty in children and also in
    adults.

     

    Internal usage

    How to extract the juice?

    The leaves of the plant
    after proper cleaning is dipped in hot water or steamed under hot water to
    extract the juice.

    •          Intake of juice with honey or sugar candy will reduce fever,
    cough and breathing difficulty

    •          Application of the paste on the forehead and chest cures headache
    and congestion caused due to vitiation of pranavaha
    srotas     (respiratory system)

    •          Cough, throat pain, wheezing – leaf extract of adalotakam (adhatoda vasika) and panikoorka with honey

    •          Steam inhalation – boil water, adding the leaves and then inhaling
    the same will help remove nasal congestion and reduce discomfort like sinusitis
    and headache caused due to increased kapha
    dosha    .

    •          Abdominal problems like gastritis and indigestion can be
    cured by intake of leaf extract with pure honey, ginger juice or buttermilk.

    •          Nasal congestion – crush the leaves and the aroma can be
    inhaled for removing the nasal congestion.

    •          Insect bites –crushed leaves are applied on the affected
    area to remove the pain.

    •          Taking bath in lukewarm water boiled with leaves of panikoorka will reduce the chance of getting
    affected by cough and fever.

    •          Application of rasnadi
    choornam     with panikoorka swarasa
    (leaf extract) will reduce the headache.

  • Medicinal importance of Mimosa Pudica

    A plant when touched will fold its leaflets inwards, so it got the names
    like Sensitive Plant, Touch me not, Shame Plant and the like. The whole plant
    including the root is useful in the medicinal point of view;-

     

    Scientific Name: Mimosa pudica
    Linn.
    Family: Leguminosae

     

    Name:
    ⦁ Sanskrit – Lajjalu, Namaskari, Raktapadi
    ⦁ Tamil – Thottal vadi
    ⦁ Hindi – Lajjavanti
    ⦁ Malayalam – Thottalvadi

     


    Morphology

    Mimosa pudica is
    a shrub/creeper which is an annual or perennial flowering plant having thorns
    in its stem and grows 2-3 feet in height. The leaves are bipinnately compound,
    with one or two pinnae pairs. The plant when touched will fold its leaflets
    inwards, so it got the names like touch me not, shame plant and all. Flowers
    are ovoid in shape and purple in colour, originating from leaf axils. Fruits
    consist of clusters of pods which break later and contain brown seeds.

    Chemical
    constituents

    Alkaloid Mimosine
    – has antiproliferative and apoptotic effects.
    Aqueous extract of root contain Tannin (10%) – Antitoxic

     

    Properties

    Guna – Laghu,
    Ruksha
    Rasa – Kashaya, Tikta
    Vipaka – Katu
    Veerya – Seetha

     

    Medicinal uses

    Useful part – whole plant including root

    ⦁ It is useful for Kapha and Pitta diseases
    ⦁ Local administration – Apply the juice of leaves in Vrana (Abscess), Kshatha
    (Fracture) and Bhagandhara (Fistula)
    ⦁ Bleeding disorders – juice of entire plant with honey
    ⦁ Leucorrhoea – Powdered plant can be given with honey along with other medication; seed – can be given as aphrodisiac (shukra dourbalya)
    ⦁ Diabetes – entire plant juice twice daily, by monitoring the glucose level.
    ⦁ Visha (Toxicity) –  useful for Spider,
    Scorpion bite – Apply the paste thrice a day with pathya.
    ⦁ Digestive system – athisara (diarrhea), bleeding hemorrhoids can be used internally.

  • Aloe Vera, the wonder plant

    Aloe Vera, widely used in herbal medicines for thousands of years due to
    its healing, rejuvenating and soothing properties, is a short-stemmed succulent
    plant, native to northern Africa. However, it’s easy to grow the “wonder plant”
    in frost-free climates.

    Aloe Vera can be cultivated as a potted plant, but care has to be taken
    by enabling seepage through drainage holes in the pot. It should be allowed to
    completely dry and watered only then. During winter, it requires very little
    water and if the region is snowy, it should be kept indoors or in a heated
    glasshouse. It is one of the richest known medicinal herbs and is sometimes
    used as an ornamental plant.

    The gel of Aloe Vera is used to conserve fruits and vegetables. It is a
    wonderful option when compared to synthetic preservatives like sulphur dioxide
    available in the market. The gel also does not affect food products since it is
    colourless and odourless, so also tasteless.

    Aloe Vera and Ayurveda

    Aloe Vera is applied on cuts and burns on the skin to heal them. It is
    effective in curing eczema. The mucopolsaccharides present in the leaf of Aloe
    Vera gives the plant its unique properties. Certain drugs have been derived
    from Aloe Vera to treat cancer in animals. It is also said to be good for all
    skin-related ailments. Many cosmetic products like shampoos, lotions, soaps and
    even tissue are made by adding Aloe Vera. In the UK, it has been used to cure
    athlete’s foot. The gel found in the leaf of Aloe Vera can be directly applied
    on wounds or cuts for quick healing. It is also used for:-

    –curing mouth sores, blisters, insect bites and allergies

    –treating dry skin and as moisturizers to keep the skin flexible

    –making skin smooth and glowing

    –preventing ageing of skin

    –curing skin lesions

    –making cosmetic products like face creams, conditioners, lipsticks and
    makeup kits.

    –curing fungal infections such as ring hours.

    Aloe Vera includes amino acids, vitamins, calcium, enzymes, sodium and
    nitrogen in reasonable quantities. It is available in the form of gel, lotion,
    cream, capsule, liquid and spray. It stimulates cell generation and is also
    used to treat bronchial congestion.

    Aloe Vera juice

    Aloe Vera juice is used to treat digestive problems. The juice is good
    for liver, colon, uterus and stomach as it contains manganese, copper,
    silicone, calcium, minerals, iron, chlorine and sulphur. The benefits of Aloe
    Vera juice are:-

    n  Good for people
    suffering from intestinal and stomach problems.

    n  Helps in digestion and
    curing of ulcers

    n  Enlarges blood vessels
    by assisting in the growth of cells

    n  Is antibacterial,
    antifungal and antiviral

    n  Is an energy booster

    n  Maintains right
    balance of stomach acids

    n  Raises the circulation
    of blood

    n  Has a detoxifying
    characteristic and hence cleans colour.

    n  It makes the skin
    tighter and smoother

    n  It assists in
    addressing problems like constipation, diarrhoea etc.

    n  Cures joint pains and
    muscle aches

    Today’s executives
    have long and tedious work schedules and often follow poor food habits. It’s
    common to see them complaining of constipation. Ayurveda doctors recommend
    consumption of Aloe Vera for five days to one week followed by taking rest for
    a couple of days for immediate relief.

    Aloe Vera is used as a
    food in India, Pakistan and Japan. The plant, also known as A Vulgaris Lam or
    A. barbadensis Mill, is quickly gathering popularity all over the world.

    (Article by C P Rajan)

  • Indian beech tree – medicine from root to leaf

    A tree often planted on road sides for shades, the Indian beech tree possesses medicinal
    properties, may it be its leaves, roots, bark, fruit, seeds and flowers. There
    are only a few other trees like this which Ayurveda depends on in its fight
    against diseases.

    The Indian beech is medicine from root to leaf. It is an
    essential ingredient in several formulations to treat a variety of diseases
    such as psoriasis, gastro diseases, rheumatism and blood disorders. They are
    even used as tooth brush.

    The medicinal tree finds mention in both Charaka Samhita and Susrutha
    Samhita    , the Ayurveda classics. While the former classifies it as
    antipruritic, the latter describes it as an effective drug used against worms,
    skin diseases, diabetes and problems related to the head. No wonder the use and
    reference to the Indian beech dates back to the Vedic period with the Rig Veda and Adharva Veda having references about the magic tree.

    The medium-sized tree – which grows to a height of 18 meters
    and 1.5 meters in girth – grows easily in any tropical climate and is generally
    seen near hilly areas, mainly near water resources. It sheds leaves once or
    twice a year, after which new golden yellow leaves cover the tree like a crown.
    Fragrant, lilac or white-tinged with pink or violet flowers appear in the axils
    of the leaves in May-June. Fruits are pod-disc shaped with a single seed
    inside.

    Chemical constituents

    The seed contains 27 per cent bitter-tasting volatile oil
    which contains chemical constituents such as karanmjin, pongamin and glabrin.
    These are useful in formulations to treat skin diseases. Pongapin, isolongocarpin and
    ovalitnone     are some of the other constituents. The bark of Indian beech
    tree has bitter alkaloids and chemicals which act against skin diseases.

    Medicinal effects

    From its root to its bark, leaves, seed and oil, every part
    of Indian beech has a therapeutic quality. Based on its pharmacological properties,
    Indian beech guards the body against many diseases– eczema, scabies, leprosy, ulcers,
    tumours, piles, and enlargement of spleen, vaginal and urinary discharges.

    Formulation: Used in paste form or as juices,
    decoction and oil.

    Treatments:

    Skin diseases: Applying its seeds in paste form is
    very effective in treating skin ulcers. In case of chronic skin ulcers, paste
    of the leaves is used. It’s effective against allergic skin diseases like urticarial.
    The seed oil is used in cutaneous affections, herpes and scabies. Juice of its
    roots is also used to treat infected wounds. The decoction obtained by mixing leaves
    of the Indian beech, root of chithraka
    and saindhava with buttermilk is also
    good for skin issues.

    Orthopaedic conditions: Medicated oil prepared with Indian
    beech seeds are used to treat orthopaedic conditions known as Mamabhighata. Medicated coconut oil along
    with the bar of the Indian beech tree is used to heal external injuries like
    sprain and fractures.

    Arthritis: Apply seed oil. Take a bath in water boiled with Indian beech leaf.

    Digestive disorders: Take Indian beech leaves in the form
    of juice, salad or chutney.

    Blood purification: Decoctions and alcoholic
    preparations called arishtas and asavas containing Indian beech help
    purify blood.

    Fistula: Juice of the root is used for closing
    fistulous sores and cleaning foul ulcers.

    Diabetes: Its flowers are used in many
    formulations to treat diabetes.

    Cough: The powder of the seeds is used in
    medicines for whooping and irritating coughs of children.

    Modern studies have proved that the leaves of Pongamia pinnata possess marked antinociceptie as well as antipyretic activities and thus scientifically
    validated its use in the treatment of pain and pyretic disorders.

    In earlier times, Indian beach sticks were used as toothbrush
    as it satisfies the three tastes ideal for cleaning teeth – pungent, bitter and
    astringent.

    Method of Cultivation

    Indian beech is as non-fussy tree and grows in any tropical
    climate/ region. It requires no particular care, but only sufficient sunlight.
    Seeds and twigs are used for reproduction. An Indian beech in your backyard
    will give you relief from diseases apart from shades that protect you from the scorching
    sunlight.

    Latin Name: Pongamia pinnata

    Family: FABACEA

    Names in other languages

    Hindi : Dithouri

    English: Indian Beech

    Malayalam: Ungu

     

    (The author S Sreelakshmi is an Ayurveda Doctor presently
    practising abroad. She can be contacted at [email protected]    )

  • Magical herbs to support cognitive health

    Today there are various medicines flooding
    the market with ‘Memory booster’ claims. But how much truth is there in these assertions?
    In olden days, people used to rely on medicinal herbs to cure their medical
    conditions. Renowned Dietitian Srishti Arora touches on a few such herbs,
    used for improving the cognitive health, mentioned in Ayurveda texts.

    Jatamansi, also
    known as “tapaswani” in Ayurveda,
    acts as a brain tonic and helps in improving memory and brain functions by
    preventing cell damage due to its antioxidant property. Jata means hair and mansi refers
    to human. The fibres-like short hairs of this herb are possessing rich
    medicinal properties. Grind the herb in whole and mix it with one cup of milk.
    Regular intake of the drink sharpens your mind. The natural drug is prescribed
    for mental ailments like schizophrenia, epilepsy, stress, anxiety and
    depression and induces sleep.

    Bacopa monnieri or brahmi,
    is mainly administered for Alzheimer’s disease, improving memory, anxiety and
    attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) among other uses. It has also
    been used to treat inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. Brahmi was chronicled in several ancient
    Ayurvedic texts including the Caraka Samhita and the Susrata Samhita where
    clear reference was made to its actions on the Central Nervous System (CNS).

    Turmeric contains a polyphenol Curcumin which has got antioxidant,
    anti-inflammatory and chemopreventive properties. Curcumin reduces oxidative
    damage and improves cognitive functions related to the aging process.
    Individual studies have found out that Curcumin results in no loss of cognition
    in the treatment group and helps a person to improve his concentration and
    memory.

    Black Pepper too has many medicinal properties because of the
    presence of a chemical called Piperine which has a relaxation effect on the
    cells of the body and the brain. It also helps overcome depression. That’s why
    black pepper is a highly recommended spice in cooking.

    Nutmeg, a commonly available Indian spice, has a calming
    effect when consumed in smaller doses. It’s especially recommended in curing
    insomnia. According to Ayurvedic experts, drinking a glass of warm milk after
    adding a pinch of nutmeg before going to bed will be beneficial. It will induce
    sleep besides de-stressing the mind.

  • Herbs around you – Bermuda Grass

    A strong connection to nature soothes
    our mind and makes us feel better emotionally. The abundant flora include
    medicinal herbs that can be used to heal or enhance our physical well-being.
    One such wonder herb is Bermuda Grass. Dr Binitha Parameswaran writes on its
    benefits:-

    Bermuda Grass (‘Karuka’ in Malayalam) with botanical name Cynodon Dactylon, is known by different names in different regions
    – Durva grass, Conch grass, Bahama
    grass, Devil’s grass, Scutch grass and the Dog’s tooth grass. Botanically
    speaking, it comes under the family, Poaceae.
    By nature, it’s a perennial grass and its thick, elongated rhizomes and
    vigorous stolons that form thick mats make a beautiful appearance.

    It’s a common grass, mostly found in
    tropical areas, that does not need any care. You might have located the grass
    along roadsides or on field borders many times. The grass has antiviral &
    antimicrobial properties and can be used as an immunity booster.  ‘Durva’
    grass contains a biochemical compound called ‘Cynodon dactylon protein
    fractions’ (CDPF), which helps to enhance our body’s immunity. An affordable
    immunity booster, just from the garden itself.

    The grass is cooling in nature, so a
    drink made with young leaves refreshes the body. The regular intake of the
    grass juice or a drink is beneficial, thanks to the nutritional contents —
    flavonoids, alkaloids, calcium, proteins, carotene, fibre, potassium, manganese
    and sodium.

    It’s used externally to treat wounds,
    added to baths to reduce itching and conditions of eczema & skin rashes
    besides health conditions such as menstrual/ gynecological problems, constipation,
    diabetes and epilepsy. Intake of the grass juice is beneficial for blood
    purification. It maintains the alkalinity of the blood.

    It has anti-fungal, antibiotic,
    anti-cancer, diuretic, hypoglycemic, antitoxic, aphrodisiac properties which
    help to fight diseases common now-a-days and even cholesterol and obesity. The
    presence of flavonoids in the grass benefits in cases of Ulcers. 

    The intake of the juice with honey is
    beneficial for women during heavy menstrual periods to control bleeding. It can
    also be taken in conditions such as piles and nasal bleeding. Also, it’s an
    excellent detoxifier.

    Many researches found ‘Durva’ grass has hypoglycemic effect, so
    this is good news for diabetic patients keeping a watch over their sugar
    levels. Because of the adequate amount of chlorophyll in the grass, it is one
    best choice to treat anemia conditions. It helps in the formation of Red Blood
    Cells in the blood. As a nervine tonic as well, this grass can be taken
    internally.

    The decoction using ‘Durva Grass’ can be made with
    ingredients such as honey, pepper, lemon juice, ginger as per your taste. One
    can also have Durva grass tea every
    morning.

  • Turmeric, neem effective against Coronavirus: study

    Ayurvedic herbal products such as turmeric and neem may be
    useful as a therapeutic or prophylactic agent against Covid-19 as they restrict
    the viral attachment to the host cells via inhibition of spike glycoprotein or its
    cellular receptor, a new study has found.

    The findings of the research by a team of scientists led
    by Pro Shailendra Saxena, Head of the Centre for Advanced Research at the King
    George’s Medical University, Lucknow, has been published in the Springer Nature Journal of viral diseases.

    The study, conducted through the 3D structure-based drug
    designing approach, primarily focussed on developing therapeutics targeting the
    spike glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2 and its host receptor ACE2 to find potential
    attachment inhibitors for the treatment of Covid-19.

    “..We studied the direct interaction between the herbal
    products and the virus. The results proved that some of the known immunity
    boosting products of Ayurveda like curcumin,
    nimbin (neem), ashwagandha and black pepper can restrict the virus’ attachment to
    the host cell receptor ACE2. This they do it by inhibition of spike
    glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2 or its cellular receptor, thus blocking entry of
    virus into our body,” Saxena was quoted as saying.

    As per the study results, curcumin
    (    the active ingredient of Curcuma longa plant) and nimbin are the best ranked drugs among the natural products showing
    the inhibitory effect.

    “..we’ve found curcumin,
    nimbin, withaferin A, piperine, mangiferin, thebaine, berberine     and andrographolide may effectively inhibit
    the interaction of  spike glycoprotein
    with its receptor compared to other selected natural drugs. Also the
    pharmacokinetics data illustrated that all selected natural products have
    better pharmacological properties,” the authors said in the research paper.

  • Uramarunnu – the traditional baby care

    Infanthood is a critical period as rapid gains in physical,
    cognitive, and socio-emotional domains constitute the ‘building blocks’ of a child’s
    later growth. It explains why     Balachikitsa
    is given the foremost position among Ashtangas (8 branches) of Ayurveda.     Dr Amrita M Nandakumar, Medical Officer,
    Triveni Nursing Home, Trivandrum,     writes:-

    The ancient medical science encompasses many effective
    treatment modalities not mentioned in classical textbooks, thanks to the regional
    growth of indigenous medicines. Authentic works in Balachikitsa like Arogyakalpadruma
    and Vaidya Tarakam are major
    contributions of Kerala, the south Indian state known as the Cradle of
    Ayurveda. They are more practically-oriented and can be considered as a
    physician’s quick reference handbook.

    Uramarunnuprayoga (a combination of certain herbal
    drugs introduced to children in a very minimal quantity) is one among the
    traditional after bath baby care practices in south India. It is administered
    to children in the form of paste as a mode of immunization, which helps in the
    maintenance of health and prevention of disease.

    Ura refers to rub and Marunnu – medicine. Thus, it represents
    a wide range of drugs which are administered to infants by rubbing. They
    include drugs possessing digestive stimulation (Deepana and Pachana),
    promoting proper movement of tissues inside the body (Vatanulomana), producing strength (Balya) and that which promotes the intellect (Medha).

    Uramarunnu is a traditional therapeutic modification of Lehana and Praasana (variety of licking) explained by Acharya in various
    Samhithas. Common examples that are practiced by traditional pediatric
    practitioners are; in case of constipation Hareethaki
    (Terminalia chebula); for abdominal pain and flatulence Lasuna (Allium sativum) are given in more proportion or given more
    number of rubs.

    Dose- There is no proper standardization on its dosage, it is
    based on the number of rubs. . This can be prepared by rubbing certain drugs on
    a chaanakallu with honey, butter or breast milk. It can be given to the child
    daily after bath from 28 days of birth up to 2 years of age. It is found to be
    preventive and curative aid for digestive disorders like colic pain,
    Krimiroga(worm infestation) Swasakasa (respiratory disorders) Graha in infants,
    and also helps in proper development of milestones .

     Mode of administration
    – The drugs in Uramarunnu are rubbed one by one with honey/breast milk/butter
    generally as the medium on a flat stone called Chaanakallu. The resultant fine
    paste is applied to the tongue of the infant or to the nipple of the mother
    (Sthanalepanam) and the child is allowed to feed. The time gap between two
    doses is usually a week, but in case of any ailments the frequency of
    administration and the number of rubs of each ingredient can be modified. The
    following drugs are commonly used:

     

               

     

     

               
    Sanskrit  Name                 Botanical Name                  Family                  Malayalam Name

     

    1             
    Vacha                           
    Acorus calamus L    Araceae                 Vayambu

     

    2             
    Yashtimadhu            
    Glycerrhiza glabra L.              
    Fabaceae            Irattimadhuram

     

    3             
    Hareetaki                 
    Terminalia chebula Retz         
    Combrataceae Kadukka

     

    4             
    Hingu                         
    Ferula asafoetida L. Apiaceae            
    Kayam

     

    5             
    Rasna                           
    Alpinia galangal L. Zingeberaceae Chittaratha

     

    6             
    Jathiphala                      
    Myristica Fragrans Houtt                
    Myristicaceae    Jathikkaya

     

    7             
    Pippali                              Piper longum L.    Piperaceae          Thippali

     

    8             
    Rudraksha                
    Elaeocarpus ganitrus Roxb. Elaeocarpaceae                Rudraksha

     

    9             
    Avartaphala                       
    Helicteres isora L.          
    Malvaceae          Idampiri
    Valampiri

     

    10           Sunti                            Zingiber officinale
    Roscoe       Zingiberacea      Chukku

     

    11          
    Vidanga                          
    Embelia ribes Burm.f         
    Myrsinaceae      Vizhalari

     

    12           Lasuna                                              
    Allium sativum L.               
    Alliaceae              Velluthulli

     

    13          
    Chandana                           
    Santalum album L.        
    Santalaceae       Chandanam

     

    14          
    Mayaphala                    Quercus infectoria Oliv.     Fagaceae            Majkani

     

    15          
    Haridra                                         
    Curucuma longa Linn           
    Zingeberacea     Manjal

  • Ashwagandha may hold cure for novel coronavirus: study

    New Delhi: A collaborative research study initiated by the Delhi-based
    Indian Institute of Technology and the National Institute of Advanced
    Industrial Science and Technology, Japan, has discovered that     Ashwagandha,
    referred as the king of Ayurvedic herbs, may hold an efficient anti-Covid-19 drug.

    The natural compounds from Ashwagandha and Propolis
    have the potential to be effective anti-Covid-19 drug candidates, according to
    the research paper, just accepted for publication in the Journal of Biomolecular
    Structure and Dynamics    .

    The researchers targeted the main enzyme of SARS-CoV-2 (novel
    coronavirus) for splitting proteins, known as the ‘Main protease’ (Mpro) that
    plays a key role in mediating viral replication.

    “This is an attractive drug target for this virus, and as
    humans don’t naturally have this enzyme, compounds that target Mpro are likely
    to have low toxicity,” the study said.

    The scientists found that Withanone (Wi-N), a natural
    compound derived from Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) and Caffeic
    Acid Phenethyl Ester (CAPE)    , an active ingredient of New Zealand Propolis,
    have the potential to interact with and block the activity of Mpro.

    The researchers also experimented the capability of these
    bioactives to modulate the encoded protein ‘transmembrane protease serine 2
    (TMPRSS2)’, present on the surface of human cells to which the SARS-CoV-2 binds
    and allows its entry into the cell and selected Withanone.

    The team said their findings may not only connect to save
    time and cost required for screening for anti-Covid-19 drugs, but may also
    offer some preventive and therapeutic value for the management of fatal Covid-19
    pandemic, and hence warrant prioritized validation in the laboratory and
    clinical tests. They added the drug development may take a while and in the
    current scenario, these natural resources (Ashwagandha and Propolis)
    may offer some preventive or even therapeutic value.

    However, although they are easily available and affordable,
    one has to be cautious about the content of bioactive ingredients. CAPE,
    while being a major component of Propolis, its amount and stability are
    critical factors that could be managed by generating its complex with
    cyclodextrins. Withanone, on the other hand, varies with geography/parts/size
    of the Ashwagandha plant. So, in order to acquire or appreciate
    particular effects, we must use the right and quality-controlled
    resource/extracts.

    “The traditional medicine system ‘Ayurveda’ has been
    practiced for thousands of years in India. Unlike modern medicine, the
    mechanism of action of natural drugs has not been resolved so far. IIT Delhi
    and AIST researchers have been working together for more than a decade and
    trying to contribute to strengthen this avenue by merging the traditional
    knowledge with the modern technologies,” said Prof. D. Sundar, Head of the
    Department of Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology at IIT Delhi.

    “While well-trusted reputation of Ashwagandha as an immunity
    enhancer forms a basis of the recent initiative of the Indian Government in
    forming an Interdisciplinary Task Force to launch its clinical research studies
    related to SARS-CoV-2 and the Covid-19 disease, the current research report of
    this team provide hints on its direct anti-viral activities,” he added.