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Global Journal of Research on medicinal plants & Indigenous medicines - Jan'13 issue
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An International, Peer Reviewed, Open access, Monthly E-Journal
ISSN 2277 – 4289 www.gjrmi.com
Editor-in-chief
Dr Hari Venkatesh K Rajaraman
Managing Editor
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Dr. S.N.Murthy Dr. Mathew Dan Mr. Tanay Bose
Dr. Nagaraja T. M. Prof. Sanjaya. K. S. Dr. Narappa Reddy
Editorial board
Dr. Kumaraswamy Dr. Madhu .K.P
Dr. Sushrutha .C.K Dr. Ashok B.K.
Dr. Janardhana.V.Hebbar Dr. Vidhya Priya Dharshini. K. R.
Mr. R. Giridharan
Honorary Members - Editorial Board
Dr Farhad Mirzaei Mr. Harshal Ashok Pawar
INDEX – GJRMI, Vol.2, Iss. 1, January 2013
Medicinal plants Research
Natural Resource
VARIATION OF ESSENTIAL OILS COMPOSITION OF PITURANTHOS SCOPARIUS IN
ALGERIA Takia Lograda, Messaoud Ramdani, Abderazak Kiram, Pierre Chalard and Gilles Figueredo 1–9
Bio-Tech & Genetic Engineering
MEDICINAL PLANTS USED BY KABIRAJ OF FOURTEEN VILLAGES IN JHENAIDAH
DISTRICT, BANGLADESH Masum Gazi Z H, Sharkar Priyanka, Nayeem Md. Abu, Rahman M Mafizur, Rahman M Mizanur 10–22
Indigenous medicine
Ayurveda
THE ROLE OF PANCHAKARMA THERAPY FOR MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS WITH
SPECIAL REFERENCE TO VATAVYADHI
Dass Ranjip Kumar 23–29
A CLINICAL STUDY TO COMPARE VIRECHANA AND JALAUKAVACHARANA
PROCEDURES IN THE MANAGEMENT OF VICHARCHIKA
Dass Ranjip Kumar, Nayak Annada Prasad 30–39
A CLINICAL STUDY ON THE EFFECTIVENESS OF DM II HERBAL COMPOUND (KALPIT) IN
THE MANAGEMENT OF OBESE DIABETICS
Agarwal Vivek 40–51
A COMPARATIVE CLINICAL EVALUATION OF THYROMAX POWDER AGAINST
THYROXINE SODIUM IN THE MANAGEMENT OF HYPOTHYROIDISM
Ujjaliya Nitin, Krishnankutty S V, Remadevi R 52–64
RUDRAKHA: A REVIEW ON MYTHOLOGICAL, SPRITUAL AND MEDICINAL IMPORTANCE
Kumar Naresh, Dubey Mukesh, Agarwal Vivek 65–72
COVER PAGE PHOTOGRAPHY: DR. HARI VENKATESH K R, PLANT ID – FLOWERS OF BARRINGTONIA RACEMOSA (L.) SPRENG. OF
THE FAMILY LECYTHIDACEAE PLACE – KOPPA, CHIKKAMAGALUR DISTRICT, KARNATAKA, INDIA
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 1–9
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
ISSN 2277-4289 | www.gjrmi.com | International, Peer reviewed, Open access, Monthly Online Journal
VARIATION OF ESSENTIAL OILS COMPOSITION OF PITURANTHOS
SCOPARIUS IN ALGERIA
Takia Lograda1*
, Messaoud Ramdani2, Abderazak Kiram
3, Pierre Chalard
4 and Gilles
Figueredo5
1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Laboratory of Natural Resource Valorization, Sciences Faculty, Ferhat Abbas University, 19000 Setif,
Algeria 4 Clermont Université, Université Blaise Pascal, BP 10448, F-63000 Clermont Ferrand
5LEXVA Analytique, 460 rue du Montant, 63110 Beaumont, France
*Corresponding author: Email - [email protected] ; Phone: (213)36835894; Fax: (213)36937943.
Received: 20/11/2012; Revised: 27/12/2012; Accepted: 31/12/2012
ABSTRACT
By means of gas chromatography and mass spectroscopy, was realized the analysis and
identification of essential oils of four populations of Pituranthos scoparius, obtained by hydro-
distillation. An average yield of 0.93% was obtained. From the leaf, essential oil of P. scoparius, 63
compounds were separated; 51 compounds in the oil of Boussâada population, representing 99.6% of
the total essential oil mass, 40 compounds in Elkantra population, representing 75.9% of the oil, 47
compounds in the oil of T’kout population, representing 98.5% of the total essential oil and 28
compounds were identified in Mechouneche population, representing 85.1% of the total essential oil.
The major compound was sabinene (14.8–24.8%), other components present in appreciable contents
were: α-pinene (8.3–23.3%), α-terpinene (3.7–7.7%) and β-pinene (2.8–5.1%). The comparison of
our results with those of literatures allowed us to detect the presence of three chemotypes in this
species. The limonene chemotype is located in the south (region of Ghardaia), the dill apiole
chemotype is located in the North (Djelfa and Laghouat regions) and the sabinene chemotype is
localized in the North East (region of Biskra and Batna).
KEYWORDS: Pituranthos scoparius, Ombiliferes, essential oil, Chemotype, Algeria.
Research article
Cite this article:
Takia Lograda, Messaoud Ramdani, Abderazak Kiram, Pierre Chalard and Gilles Figueredo
(2013), VARIATION OF ESSENTIAL OILS COMPOSITION OF PITURANTHOS SCOPARIUS
IN ALGERIA, Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med., Volume 2(1): 1–11
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 1–9
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
INTRODUCTION
The genus Pituranthos (family Apiaceae)
is represented by more than 20 species. This
plant is characterized by stems in the form of
rushes which are often much ramified, without
leaves or nearly so, with small fruits of less
than 3 mm. Four species are present in Algeria
(Ozenda, 2004).
The species studied in this work,
Pituranthos scoparius (Coss. & Dur.)
Schinz (Syn: Deverra scoparia Coss. &
Dur.), is an endemic of North Africa and is
widespread in Algeria, especially in the high
plateau and in most parts of the Sahara. P.
scoparius is an aphyllous perennial plant; the
upper leaves are reduced to their sheath. The
stems are erect, 40–80 cm high, and form dense
clumps that send out laterally short rigid
branches (Quézel et Santa, 1962–1963).
Pituranthos species are used in traditional
medicine (Boukef et al., 1982; El Rhaffari et
Zaid, 2002; Vérité et al., 2004; Hammiche and
Maiza, 2006; Benmekhbi et al., 2008; Yangui
et al., 2008; Sharaby et al., 2009; Krifa et al.,
2011). Phytochemical studies have been
carried out on P. scoparius (Hammiche and
Maiza, 2006; Boutaghane et al., 2004; Haba et
al., 2004; Dahia et al., 2009; Smaili et al.,
2011; Gourine et al., 2011). The essential oil
of populations of P. scoparius show that they
are rich in α-pinene, β-pinene, limonene,
myristicin, dill apiole and germacrene-D (table
1) (Hammiche and Maiza, 2006, Vérite et al.,
2004; Smaili et al., 2011; Gourine et al.,
2011). The aim of the present study is to carry
out a large scale investigation on the essential
oil composition and the determination of P.
scoparius chemotypes in Algeria which
involved different regions and search
relationships between populations and ecology.
MATERIALS & METHODS
Plant material
Pituranthos scoparius is collected from
four localities in eastern Algeria, Boussâada
(M’sila), T’Kout (Batna), ElKantra and
Mechouneche (Biskra) (Figure 1). Aerial parts
were collected during the flowering stage in
October 2011. The air dried materials were
subjected to hydro-distillation for 3 h using a
clevenger apparatus type. Voucher specimens
were deposited in the herbarium of the
Department of Biology, Ferhat Abbas
University, Algeria.
Essential oil analysis
The essential oils were analysed on a
Hewlett-Packard gas chromatograph Model
5890, coupled to a Hewlett-Packard model
5971, equipped with a DB5 MS column
(30 m X 0.25 mm; 0.25 μm), programming
from 50°C (5 min) to 300°C at 5°C/min, with
a 5 min hold. Helium was used as the carrier
gas (1.0 mL/min); injection in split mode
(1:30); injector and detector temperatures, 250
and 280°C, respectively. The mass
spectrometer worked in EI mode at 70 eV;
electron multiplier, 2500 V; ion source
temperature, 180°C; MS data were acquired in
the scan mode in the m/z range 33–450. The
identification of the components was based on
comparison of their mass spectra with those of
NIST mass spectral library (Masada, 1976;
NIST, 2002) and those described by (Adams,
2001) as well as on comparison of their
retention indices either with those of authentic
compounds or with literature values (Adams,
2001).
Statistical analysis
Data were first subjected to Principal
Components Analysis (PCA) to examine the
relationships among the terpenes compounds
and identify the possible structure of the
population. Cluster analysis (UPGMA) was
carried out on the original variables and on the
Manhattan distance matrix to seek for
hierarchical associations among the
populations. The cluster analyses were carried
out using STATISTICA 9 software.
RESULTS
The extract of the aerial parts of P.
scoparius gave yellow-green oil with a
characteristic odour and an average return
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 1–11
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
(1.16%) (v/w). The greater yield of essential oil
was (2.29%) found in the population of
Elkantra and the minimum (0.47%) in T’kout
population. The essential oils of P. scoparius
were analyzed by GC and GC-MS. The
compounds identified in these oils and their
relative proportions are listed in order of their
elution (Table 2).
Table 1: Major components, in essential oil, of Pituranthos scoparius growing in different areas of Algeria
Authors Smaili et
al., 2011 Gourine et al., 2011
Vérité
et al.,
2004
Localities M’Sila Djelfa Laghouat Ghardaïa
Populations
compounds 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
α-pinene 17.4 23.7 26.7 27.0 35.8 35.1 8.1 11.2 4.7 8.4 5.5 10.4 4.4 6.8
Sabinene 7.5 1.1 0.9 4.6 2.2 1.1 0.2 0.2 – 0.4 0.3 0.4 0.3 –
β-pinene 3.7 5.3 4.1 1.7 5.2 5.2 0.5 2.9 1.2 0.5 2.0 1.2 1.7 3.8
Myrcene 1.7 0.6 1.2 0.9 1.3 1.1 0.7 0.6 0.3 0.6 0.6 0.9 0.6 –
α-Phellandrene 15.6 1.2 1.9 0.8 1.0 2.0 4.6 6.4 2.1 0.7 4.1 1.7 3.6 7.1
Limonene – 0.9 7.8 4.0 7.0 30 66.5 49.5 32.7 45 37.2 58.3 34.4 9.8
β-phellandrene 6.1 0.9 0.6 – 0.6 0.7 0.6 2.6 0.8 – 2.0 0.4 1.9 -
β-ocimene-Z 4.7 3.2 3.8 1.2 – – – – – – – – – –
γ-terpinene – – 1.0 2.3 0.9 2.0 0.1 – 2.0 1.3 0.9 0.4 0.8 0.3
Terpinene-4-ol – 0.9 0.6 0.6 1.1 0.4 0.1 0.2 – – – 0.4 0.2 0.4
p-cymen-8-ol – 6.7 2.0 2.1 1.0 1.6 0.5 1.8 0.7 0.6 2.4 1.0 2.4 –
Bornyle acetate – – 9.6 – 9.5 3.0 0.1 – – – – 0.3 – –
Bicyclo-germacrene – – – 0.6 0.4 0.3 0.4 0.6 2.0 1.3 0.8 2.3 0.7 2.7
Myristicin 24.1 18.2 2.5 – 0 1.9 – 5.2 12.4 2.6 25.1 0.4 31.1 7.2
Dill-apiole 3.4 1.4 30.3 47.3 25.7 9.9 11.3 1.03 22.6 23 0.9 0.4 1.1 1.1
β-eudesmol – – 0.3 – 0.3 – – – – – – – 0.8 4.1
Germacrene-D 4.0 3.3 1.1 2.5 1.3 1.6 2.1 3.8 4.3 2.8 5.9 6.3 5.3 12.7
γ cadinene – 1.4 0.5 0.6 0.6 0.5 0.5 1.2 1.3 1.0 1.3 2.0 0.9 2.3
Methyl eugenol – 1.7 – 0.7 – 0.2 0.1 0.3 0.6 – 1.4 2.7 1.9 5.9
α-thujene 2.1 – – – – – – – – – – – – 0.4
β-ocimene-E 1.9 – – – – – – – – – – – – 4.2
Spathulenol – – – – – – – – – – – – – 4.5
Camphene – – 2.1 – 2.4 1.2 – – – – – – – 2.3
Δ3-carene – 1.1 1.4 – – – – – – – – 1.0 0.2 –
Linalool – 1.94 – – 0.2 – 0.1 – – – 0.6 – – –
γ cadinol – 0.4 – – – – 0.9 – 3.6 3.1 – – 0.2 –
t-muurolol – 1.6 – 0.7 – 0.2 0.2 1.0 0.4 0.5 0.7 1.7 0.2 3.6
β-caryophyllene – – – – – – – – – – – – – 1.7
Bicyclo-elemene – – – – – – – – – – – – – 1.1
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 1–11
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
Table 2: Chemical composition of essential oils of Pituranthos scoparius
Compounds KI
Bo
uss
aa
da
T’K
ou
t
Elk
an
tra
Mech
ou
nech
e
Compounds KI
Bo
uss
aa
da
T’K
ou
t
Elk
an
tra
Mech
ou
nech
e
Yield v/w
0.85 0.47 2.29 1.04 Yield v/w
0.85 0.47 2.29 1.04
Number of compounds 51 47 40 28 Number of compounds 51 47 40 28
Total % 99.6 98.5 75.9 85.1 Total % 99.6 98.5 75.9 85.1
α-thujene 932 2.5 3.1 1.9 1.6 Phellandral 1274 0.2 1.8 – –
α-pinene 939 16.4 23.3 8.3 13.4 Bornyle acetate 1279 0.1 1.8 – –
Thuja-2,4(10)-Diene 948 0.2 0.2 0.1 – Carvacrol 1299 1 0.1 0.1 –
Camphene 953 – 0.3 – 0.4 α-cubebene 1341 0.2 0.2 – –
Verbenene 968 – 0.3 – – α-copaene 1370 0.7 0.2 0.1 –
Sabinene 976 14.8 18.6 18.9 24.8 β-bourbonnene 1378 2 0.6 – –
β-pinene 979 2.8 5.1 3.6 4.5 β-cubebene 1381 0.3 0.2 0.1 –
Myrcene 990 1.3 – 0.9 1.5 Methyl eugenol 1394 – 0.5 0.3 0.3
α-Phellandrene 1005 0.7 2.2 3 2 β-caryophyllene 1412 0.9 0.5 0.1 –
α-terpinene 1014 5.8 7.7 3.7 3.8 β-copaene 1423 0.3 0.5 – –
Para-cymene 1023 1 1.5 3.2 2.4 Sesquisabinene-A 1445 0.2 0.5 – –
Limonene 1027 0.7 1.3 1.8 2.5 α-humulene 1449 4.7 0.2 – –
β-phellandrene 1029 3.9 – 0.6 – β-acoradiene 1466 – 0.8 – –
β-ocimene-Z 1036 – 1 3.6 0.3 γ-murolene 1468 1.3 – 0.1 0.1
β-ocimene-E 1045 1.6 7.6 0.1 – Germacrene-D 1475 0.4 0.2 0.9 –
γ-terpinene 1057 0.5 0.1 1.4 2.1 β-Selinene 1482 0.3 1.3 0.1 –
cis hydrate de sabinene 1069 – – 0.3 0.7 α-Farnesene 1495 7.7 0.3 – 0.1
Terpinolene 1083 0.4 5.3 0.5 0.7 Bicyclogermacrene 1500 – 2.7 – –
3-methyl-2(2-methylbutenyl)
furane 1090 0.6 2.3 – – Germacrene-A 1509 – 0.1 – 0.1
trans hydrate de sabinene 1098 – – 0.3 0.5 Δ3-Cadinene 1510 0.7 0.6 – –
Menthatriene, 1,3,8-Para- 1109 0.1 – – – Myristicin DB5-1691 1523 0.7 – 7.6 –
α-camphoaldehyde 1124 0.1 0.7 – 0.3 α-Calacorene 1533 1.3 – – –
Trans-pinocarveol 1140 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.2 β-Calacorene 1563 0.6 0.5 – –
Sabinacetone (origan) 1155 2 – 0.2 0.1 Elemicin 1571 – – 0.1 –
Pinocarvone 1159 0.8 – 0.3 – Caryophyllene oxyde 1575 9.7 – 0.5 –
Terpinene-4-ol 1182 – – 3.8 4.6 Spathulenol 1580 0.3 2 0.3 –
p-cymen-8-ol 1186 1.5 0.2 0.3 – Salvial-4(14)-en-1-one 1590 2.8 0.3 0.1 0.2
Myrtenal 1192 0.7 – – – 1,5-epoxysalvial-4(14)-ene 1592 – 0.4 – –
Estragole 1195 0.3 – 0.5 – Humulene-1,2-Epoxyde 1601 0.8 0.2 – –
Myrtenol 1200 0.4 – 0.3 – Dill apiole 1610 0.9 0.4 6.6 16.8
Verbenone 1203 0.2 0.2 0.3 – α-epi-muurolol 1636 0.4 – 0.8 0.7
Cuminaldehyde 1239 – 0.1 – – β-eudesmol 1648 1.4 0.2 – 0.4
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 1–11
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
Sixty four compounds were identified,
showing high amounts in monoterpenes. Some
samples are rich in oxygenated compounds
such as dill apiole. Fifty-one compounds were
identified in Boussâada population representing
99.6% of the total oil, 47 compounds were
identified in T’kout population representing
98.5%. 40 compounds were identified in
Elkantra population; representing 75.9% and 28
compounds were identified in Mechouneche
population, representing 85.1% of the total oil.
The samples investigated present a large
quantitative and qualitative variability. The
main components identified are α-pinene (8.3–
23.3%), sabinene (14.8–24.8%), α-terpinene
(3.7–7.7%), limonene (0.7–2.5%), α-thujene
(1.6–3.1%), p-cymene (1–3.2%), β-pinene
(2.8–5.1%) and dill apiole (0.4–16.8%).
The Boussaada population is
individualized, compared to other populations,
with high levels of caryophyllene epoxide
(9.7%), α-farnesene (7.7%), α-humulene
(4.7%), β-phellandrene (3.9), salvial-4(14)-en-
1-one (2.8%), sabinacetone (2%), β-
bourbonnene (2%), β-eudesmol (1.4%) and a
rate average of the α-pinene (16.4%) and
sabinene (14.8%). The population of T'kout
(Batna) is rich in α-pinene (23.3%), sabinene
(18.6%), α-terpinene (7.7%), α-ocimene-(E)
(7.6%), terpinolene (5.3%), β-pinene (5.1%), 3-
methyl-2(2-methylbutenyl)-furan (2.3%),
bicyclogermacrene (2.7%) and spathulenol
(2%).
The two populations of Biskra (Elkantra
and Mechouneche) have the same major
components with similar rates. In Elkantra
population we noted the presence of
compounds that are absent in Mechouneche
population (α-phellandrene (0.6%), α-ocimene-
(Z) (3.6%), estragole (0.5%), germacrene-D
(0.9 %), myricticin (7.6%) and caryophyllene
oxide (5%). The dill-apiole is present with a
rate of 6.6% against 16.8% in the population of
Mechouneche. In order to investigate the
differences between the essential oils samples
of the different regions, we have chosen the
cluster analysis using the principal component
analysis (PCA) performed on the correlations
between the 43 variables presented three axes
comprising 87.28% of the total variation
present in the original data. This analysis
clustered populations in tree groups, but the
separation of the populations is not clear. The
ordination of population’s means obtained for
the three vectors is shown in (figure 2).
The result showed the existence of three
groups. The first group consists of Ghardaïa
populations, studied by (Hammiche and Maiza,
2006). This set is characterized by limonene,
myristicin, α-phellandrene and germacrene-D.
The second group, formed by the populations
in northern sampling area, M’sila, Djelfa,
Laghouat and Ghardaia studied by (Smaili et
al., 2011; Gourine et al., 2011). The group is
very rich in α-pinene, myristicin.
The third group formed by Batna and
Biskra Populations, are characterized by the
presence of the α-penene, sabinene, β-pinene,
α-thujene and α-terpinene. It should be noted
that this group has a high rate of sabinene,
which is poorly represented in the rest of
populations. We noted that the first group is
well separated from the other groups, while the
separation of groups (2 and 3) is less clear. All
populations of this species have showed high α-
pinene, β-pinene and dill apiole levels and low
quantitative variations in all their components,
the rest of the components present a
quantitative and qualitative variability. The
terpenoids variability reflects the heterogeneity
of the genetic structure of Pituranthos
scoparius. Genetic analyses were carried out
using terpenoids including some compounds
that have been shown in other species to be
under the control of single locus with two
alleles.
The dendrogram based on UPGMA
clustring (Manhattan distance), shows the
presence of two group (figure 3), that confirms
result obtained from ACP analyses.
The first group (Group I) formed by
populations of Ghardaia. This group is
individualized by the presence of high levels of
limonene (32.7-66.5%) and myristicin (0.4 to
31.1%). The rate of α-pinene closer to the
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 1–11
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
subgroup III located to the north of the study
area and separates the subgroup II located in
the southern part. We also note the presence of
germacrene-D which approximates group III.
The second group is divided into three
subgroups.
The first is formed by the populations of
Boussaada, T'kout, ElKantra and
Mechouneche, located to the north-east of the
study area, are rich in α-pinene, sabinene, α-
terpinene, β-pinene, dill-apiole and a low rate
of limonene. The second subgroup formed by
Djelfa and Laghouat populations, located in the
middle of the transect study, is characterized by
the presence of high levels of α-pinene (26.7 to
35.8%), β-pinene, dill-apiole and a low rate of
limonene, myristicin and germacrene-D. the
third subgroup. The third subgroup formed by
the populations of M'sila and Djelfa, is
characterized by an average rate of α-pinene, β-
pinene, a high rate of α-phellandrene, β-
ocimene-Z, myristicin and germacrene-D.
DISCUSSION
Our results are in agreement with those of
the bibliography (Smaili et al., 2011; Gourine
et al., 2011) who investigated the yield of
essential oil from P. scoparius from M’Sila and
Laghouar respectively. The compounds found
in the Pituranthos scorparius populations
generally resembled those previously reported
to occur in Algeria (Hammiche and Maiza,
2006; Smaili et al., 2011; Gourine et al., 2011).
In particular (α-pinene, sabinene, myrcene, α-
phellandrene, limonene, myristicin, dill-apiole
and germacrene-D), in the sampling areas, the
compounds concentrations present a variability.
Aggregation of P. scoparius populations into
small groups is an indication of terpenoids
variability in this population. The diversity of
the terpenoids content reflects the existence of
considerable genetic variability (Forrest, 1980;
Raddi and Sümer, 1999).
Figure 1: Populations of Pituranthos scoparius studied
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 1–11
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Figure 2: Ordination of the first three principal axes of P. scoparius populations.
Ghardaia 01
Ghardaia 06
Ghardaia 02
Ghardaia 04
Ghardaia 05
Ghardaia 07Ghardaia 03
Laghouat 02Ghardaia 08
Laghouat 01
Djelfa 02
Boussâada
Elkantra
Djelfa 01
M'Sila
Djelfa 03
Mechouneche
T’kout
Ghardaia 01
Ghardaia 06
Ghardaia 02
Ghardaia 04
Ghardaia 05
Ghardaia 07Ghardaia 03
Laghouat 02Ghardaia 08
Laghouat 01
Djelfa 02
Boussâada
Elkantra
Djelfa 01
M'Sila
Djelfa 03
Mechouneche
T’kout
Factor 1: (55.18%)
Factor 2: (22.53%)
Fa
cto
r 3
: (9
.57
%)
Figure 3: Dendrogram based on Manhattan similarity distance.
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 1–11
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The UPGMA analysis of terpene traits
confirms this variability, and a clear conclusion
can be transmitted between population’s
geographic distribution and a composition of
the essential oil of this species. This later
observation confirms the potential occurrence
of chemotypes in these essential oils and could
explain the variability of the results reported for
the same essential oil of P. scorpius. The
limonene is present in individuals of Ghardaia,
it is poorly represented or even absent in other
populations studied. The rate of α-pinene
deteriorates from north to south. The α-
phellandrene has a more or less homogeneous
concentration. The diall-apiole in P. scoparius
decrease from south to north, while
germacrene-D is very low among populations
of M'Sila, Batna and Biskra, its concentration
increases from south to north.
CONCLUSION
Pituranthos scoparius is rich in α-pinene,
limonene, sabinene, dill-apiole and β-pinene.
Our study and previous studies decortications’
on this species, we were able to detect the
presence of α-pinene-dill apiole chemotype,
located in the north of the study area (M'sila
Djelfa and Laghouat). The north-eastern part
surveyed (M'sila, Batna and Biskra) contains α-
pinene-sabinene chemotype. We note the
decrease in the concentration of α-pinene from
east to west. Finally Limonene chemotype is
observed in the northern study area (Ghardaia).
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The works was supported by Algerian
MESRS and Chemical Laboratory of
carbohydrates Heterocyclic of Clermont
Ferrant, France
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Source of Support: Nil Conflict of Interest: None Declared
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 10–22
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
ISSN 2277-4289 | www.gjrmi.com | International, Peer reviewed, Open access, Monthly Online Journal
MEDICINAL PLANTS USED BY KABIRAJ OF FOURTEEN VILLAGES IN JHENAIDAH
DISTRICT, BANGLADESH
Masum Gazi Z H
1, Sharkar Priyanka
2, Nayeem Md. Abu
3, Rahman M Mafizur
4, Rahman M Mizanur
5*
1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Islamic University, Kushtia-7003, Bangladesh.
*Corresponding author: Email: [email protected]; Phone: +8807162201-6 ext 2306;
Fax: + 887154400; Cell: +8801712562730
Received: 06/12/2012; Revised: 05/01/2013; Accepted: 07/01/2013
ABSTRACT
Medicinal plants use simple formulations of whole plant or plant parts from medicinal plants for
treatment of various ailments. The objectives of this study were to identify native medicinal plants,
their uses, type of conservation measures and evaluation of their contribution to income generation
of participating farmers and Kabiraj. Data were collected from the beneficiaries’ local people and
Kabiraj through direct interview, group discussion and visit to the gardens of medicinal plants from
14 villages Jhenaidah district. A total of 121 medicinal plant species belonging to 64 families have
been identified. The most frequently used families are Apocynaceae with 7 and Asteraceae with 6
species followed by Moraceae, and Solanaceae with 5 species. Among the selected species the
maximum contribution was recorded for herbs with 48 species (40%) followed by the trees with 39
species (32%), shrubs with 25 species (21%) and the climbers with 9 species (7%). These plant
species are utilized by local peoples against various a liver complaints, digestive problems, jaundice,
asthma, bronchitis, anemia, piles, mental disorder, cancer, general weakness, diabetes, gonorrhoea,
sexual disorders, syphilis, leprosy and insect-bites. It was noted that if proper marketing facility
could be ensured, there would be greater scope of income generation and better chances of
biodiversity conservation through regular cultivation of these native medicinal plants. This survey
signifies ethno-medicinal values of plant species that occur in Jhenaidah district.
KEY WORDS: Medicinal plants, Kavirajas, ethno-medicinal, Jhenaidah district.
Research article
Cite this article:
Masum Gazi Z H, Sharkar P, Nayeem Md. Abu, Rahman M, Rahman M. M (2013), Medicinal
Plants Used by Kabiraj of Fourteen Villages in Jhenaidah District, Bangladesh, Global J Res. Med.
Plants & Indigen. Med., Volume 2(1): 10–22
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 10–22
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
INTRODUCTION
Medicinal plants serve as important
therapeutic agents as well as valuable raw
materials for manufacturing numerous
traditional and modern medicines. They offer
alternative remedies with tremendous
opportunities to generate income, employment
and foreign exchange for developing countries
(Rawat and Uniyal, 2004). Many traditional
healing herbs and their parts have been shown
to have medicinal value and can be used to
prevent, alleviate or cure several human
diseases (Dhar et al., 1999). It is estimated that
70–80% of people worldwide rely chiefly on
traditional, largely herbal medicine to meet
their primary healthcare needs (Farnsworth and
Soejarto, 1991; Pei Shengji, 2001). It has
further been observed that a number of modern
pharmaceuticals have been derived from plants
used by indigenous people (Balick and Cox,
1996; Rahmatullah et al., 2010). Important
modern drugs that have been derived from
observations of traditional curing methods of
indigenous people include aspirin, atropine,
ephedrine, digoxin, morphine, quinine,
reserpine and tubocurarine (Gilani and
Rahman, 2005; Rahmatulla et al., 2010). Out of
the 350,000 plant species identified so far,
about 35,000 (some estimate up to 70,000) are
used worldwide for medicinal purposes and
less than about 0.5% of these have been
chemically investigated (Comeran, 1996).
In Bangladesh, medicinal plants are found
to grow naturally in the forest, bushes and
marginal land along the canal and in other
places and, a long tradition of indigenous
herbal medicinal systems, based on the rich
local plant diversity, are considered as very
important component of the primary health care
system. Bangladesh has over 5,000 floral
species and many of them are in use by the
Kabirajas in folk medicine. The previous ethno-
medicinal studies conducted among folk and
tribal medicinal practitioners of the country
have noticed considerable variation between
the medicinal plants selected by different
Kabirajas for treatment of a given ailment
(Nawaz et al., 2009; Hasan et al., 2010; Hossan
et al., 2010; Mollik et al., 2010a; Rahmatullah
et al., 2010a; Jahan et al., 2011). These
variations exist even between Kavirajas
practicing in adjoining villages with identical
flora. There are over 87,000 villages in
Bangladesh and most villages have one or two
practicing Kabirajas. The inescapable
conclusion is that if one has to obtain a
comprehensive picture of the medicinal plants
used by the folk medicinal practitioners, then as
many Kavirajas as possible need to be
interviewed to learn about the diseases treated,
medicinal plants used, and the formulations of
their administration. Knowledge of medicinal
plant used by the Kavirajas of Bangladesh can
be a good source for further scientific studies in
the quest for better drugs from the medicinal
plants used and with lesser side-effects
(Rahmatulla et al., 2010). The objective of the
present study was to conduct an ethnomedicinal
survey among the Kavirajas of fourteen
villages of Jhenaidah district, which lies in the
South-western region of Bangladesh.
METHODS AND MATERIALS
Study Area
The study was conducted in Jhenaidah
district, the south-western part of Bangladesh.
The study area is in Table 1 covers fourteen
villages in Jhenaidah Sadar and Harinakundu
upazilas. It was observed that Kavirajas of that
area often collect their raw materials from these
villages. Albeit this region is found to be a rich
source of a variety of medicinal plants, no
systematic study conducted yet.
Time and procedure of data collection
Data for this study were collected through
personal interview by the researchers
themselves during 29th
April to 20th
June 2012
using questionnaires prepared earlier. The
collection of data through interviews of
Kavirajas and local people were conducted
with the help of a semi-structured questionnaire
and the guided field-walk method of Martin
(1995) and Maundu (1995). Briefly, in this
method, the Kavirajas and others took the
interviewers on field-walks to Jhenaidah where
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 10–22
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they usually collected their medicinal plants,
pointed out the plants and described their uses.
All provided information was double-checked
with them in later evening sessions. Excellent
cooperation was obtained from all the
respondents during data collection.
Identification of plant spices
The medicinal plants were identified with
the help of National Herbarium, Mirpur,
Dhaka- 1216, Bangladesh, where the voucher
specimen has been deposited.
Table 1 Studied area of different villages under Jhenaidah district
SL No. Villages Unions Upazila
1 Rajapur Paglakanai JhenaidahSadar
2 Kulfadanga Mahajpur
3 Kisnopur Ganna
4 Rasnagar Kumabarai
5 Nagarpathan Kumabarai
6 Mohespur Kumabarai
7 Kusiarchar Kanchanpur
8 Kutirhat Kanchanpur
9 Charpara Raghunathpur Harinakunda
10 Porahati Raghunathpur
11 Tola Raghunathpur
12 Raghunathpur Raghunathpur
13 Mandera Raghunathpur
14 Horispur Bhayna
RESULTS AND DISSCUSION
Present status of medicinal plant species
grown in study area
A total of 121 medicinal plants belonging to
62 families were documented from the study
area. The documented medicinal plants and
their ethno-medicinal uses along with common
name have been summarized (Table 2). Major
families contributing plant species towards
treatment of various diseases included,
Apocynaceae, Combretaceae, Euphorbiaceae,
Fabaceae, Moraceae, Piperaceae, and Poaceae
families (Table 3). Among the selected species
ethno-medicinally, the maximum contribution
was recorded for herbs with 48 species (40%)
followed by the trees with 39 species (32%),
shrubs with 25 species (21%) and the climbers
with 9 species 7% (Fig 1).
Fig 1 Habit pattern of medicinal plants in the study area
40%
32%
21%
7%
Herb
Tree
Shrub
Climber
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Table 2 Medicinal plants used for treatment of various ailments by Kavirajas of fourteen
villages surveyed in Jhenaidha district, Bangladesh.
Serial
No.
Scientific Name Family Name Local Name Distri
bution
Part
used
Medicinal Uses
1 Aloe barbadensis Mill. Aloaceae Gheetokumari Herb
Leaf Leaf pulp - lung disease, stomach
disorders, skin burns.
2 Aegle marmelos L.
Rutaceae Bel Tree
Fruit Fruit pulp-Diarrhoea, dysentery.
3 Acacia catechu (L. f.) Fabaceae, Khayar Tree
Bark Bark powder -intestinal pain. Bark
paste - skin diseases
4 Ageratum conyzoides L. Asteraceae Fulkuri Herb Whole
plant
Leaf - boils as a poultice. Leaf and
stem - skin disease. Flower buds
cure cancerous growth
5 Andrographis paniculata
(Burm. F.)
Acanthaceae Kalomegh Shrub
Whole
plant
Used in liver complaints,
constipation, cholera, dysentery,
diabetes.
6 Acacia nilotica L. Mimosaceae Babla Tree Whole
plant
Bark-cough, bronchitis , gum-
sexual debility ,leaf-eucoderma,
gonorrhoea
7 Areca catechu L. Arecaceae Supari Tree Root Root paste-Toothache.
8 Abutilon indicum L. Malvaceae Potari Shrub Whole
plant
Whole plant - fever, cough, piles,
stones in bladder.
9 Averrhoa carambola L. Oxalidaceae Kamranga Tree Fruit Fruit pulp - Cold, cough, dandruff.
10 Artocarpus heterophyllus
Lam.
Moraceae Kathal Tree Gum Gum - dry cracked heels,
hemorrhoids.
11 Asparagus racemosus Willd. Liliaceae Satamuli Herb
Root
Tuberous roots are used as
aphrodisiac, alterative, tonic, and
demulcent, diuretic.
12 Alstonia scholaris L. Apocynaceae Chatim Tree Bark Bark - swellings of mouth, scurvy,
ulcer.
13 Anthocephalus chinensis
(Lam.)
Rubiaceae Kodom Tree Leaf
Leaf juice - fever.
14 Azadirachta indica A. Juss
Meliaceae Neem Tree
Whole
plant
Various parts of the plant are used
in inflammation of gums,
gingivitis, sores, fever, spleen
complaints, tumors, smallpox.
15 Adhatoda vasica Nees. Acanthaceae Basak, Shrub
Whole
plant
The root, bark and leaves are useful
in cough, asthma.
16 Achyranthes aspera L. Amaranthaceae Apang Herb Whole
plant
Whole plant used in coughs,
pneumonia, piles, kidney stone and
colic.
17 Abroma augusta L. f. Sterculiaceae Ulotkombol Tree
Bark Bark -menstrual problems, urinary
troubles.
18 Bacopa monnieri (L.)
Pennel
Scorphulariace Braham,
Herb Whole
plant
Plant juice is given orally as
diuretic, cardiac tonic and memory
enhancer.
19 Boerhaavia diffusa L. Nyctaginaceae Punarnav,
Gandhaprna
Herb
Whole
plant
Root and leaf juice is effective as
diuretic in anasarca and dropsy.
Leaves and roots are also useful in
jaundice, anaemia, ascites
ophthalmia, gonorrhea.
20 Borassus flabellifer L. Arecaceae Tal Plam
tree
Fruit Fruit juice - coughs and pulmonary
affection.
21 Bambusa arundinacea
(Retz.) Willd
Poaceae
Bans Tree Whole
plant
stem-blood, leucoderma leaf-
cough, cold, roots- joint pains
22 Blumeala cera (Burn .f.)
DC.
Asteraceae Shealmoti Herb Whole
plant
Leaf juice-bleeding piles,
bronchitis; Roots–cholera.
Rhizomes -dysentery
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23 Brassica nigra (L.) Koch. Brassicacee KaloSarisha Herb Seeds Seeds are emetic; powdered seeds
are used as vesicant and
rubefacient
24 Buettneria pilosa Roxb Sterculiaceae
Harjora Climber Stem Paste of stem used in fractured
bones.
25 Borreria articularis (L. F.)
F. N. Will.
Rubiaceae
Madnabata Herb Whole
plant
Whole plant -inflammation of eye,
diarrhoea, dysentery
26 Bombax ceiba L.
Bombacaceae, Shimul Tree
Root Root decoction is given as tonic,
anti-dysenteric and in urinary
troubles.
27 Catharanthus roseus (L.) G.
Don
Apocynaceae Noyontara Herb Leaf Leaf -Cancer, diabetes, fungal
infection
28 Centella asiatica (L) Apiaceae, Thankoni Herb Whole
plant
Plant-in skin diseases, leprosy, and
mental disorder. Leaf juice -
indigestion.
29 Calotropis gigantea (L) W.T Apocynaceae Akand, Shrub Whole
plant
Extracts of roots and leaves -
abdominal tumors, boils, syphilis,
leprosy, skin diseases, piles, wonds
and insect-bites.
30 Canna indica L.
Cannaceae Kalaboti. Herb Whole
plant
Root-fevers, dropsy. Seed juice -
relieves earaches. Rhizome-
ringworm.
31 Carica papaya L. Caricaceae Papa Shurb Latex Fever, blood dysentery.
32 Citrus limon (L.) Burm. f. Rutaceae, Labu Shurb Leaf Leaves are chewed to expel
intestinal worms.
33 Capsicum frutescens L. Solanaceae KachaMorich Herb Fruit Fruit -gastric problems, ulcer.
34 Convolvulus obscurus L. Convolvulaceae Ban kalmi Climber Leaf Leaf juice - aphthous affection.
35 Coccini agrandis (L.) J.
Voigt
Cucurbitaceae Telakachu Climber Leaf Leaf juice -hypertension, diabetes,
indigestion.
36 Carissa carandas L. Apocynaceae Koromcha Tree Fruit Fruit- Cold, cough
37 Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. Poaceae, Durba grass Climbers Whole
plant
Plant paste-cuts, wounds. Root-
bleeding piles, indigestion. Plant
juice-earache.
38
Cissus ouadrangularis L. Vitaceae Harjod Shrub Whole
plant
Whole plant - bone fracture.
Wound healing
39 Cyperus rotundus L. Cyperaceae, Mutha gas Herb Tuber Tuber infusion, with sugar/salt is
given orally in dysentery.
40 Dalbergia sissoo Roxb Fabaceae Shissu Tree Whole
plant
Bark and leaf juice -Diarrhoea,
dysentery and gonorrhea.
41 Datura metel L. Solanaceae Dhutura Herb Whole
plant
Seeds, leaves and roots are used in
insanity, fever with catarrh,
diarrhoea, skin diseases and
cerebra
42 Dillenia indica L. Dilleniaceae Chalta Tree Fruit Sex stimulant
43 Dendrophthoe alcata (L. f)
Etting.
Loranthaceae Manda Tree Bark Bark -Skin diseases, asthma,
menstrual
Problems
44 Diplazium esculentum
(Retz.)
Woodsiaceae Dhekishak shrub Leaf Fever. Leaves and stems are
cooked and
Eaten as vegetable.
45 Euphorbia tirucalli L. Euphorbiaceae Latadaona, Tree
Stem Stem is useful in gonorrhoea,
whooping cough, asthma, d,
leprosy, enlarged spleen,
dyspepsia.
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46 Zingiber officinale Roscoe
Zingiberaceae
Ada Herb Rhizome Cough, cold, fever, indigestion,
and constipation, bronchial
infections.
47 Eclipta prostrata L. Asteraceae
Kesraj Herb Leaf Leaf juice - hair fall, bronchitis,
itching, night blindness.
48 Eichhornia crassipes
(M.)Solms
Pontederiaceae Kochuripana Herb Whole
plant
Plant juice - fever, goiter.
49 Euphorbia antiquorum L. Euphorbiaceae Bojbaran, Shrub Latex Latex -rheumatism, toothache,
nervine diseases,
50 Enhydra fluctuans Lour. Asteraceae Helencha, Herb Whole
plant
Whole plant-inflammation,
biliousness;
51 Foeniculum vulgare Mill. Apiaceae Muhori, Herb Seeds Seed-cures eye diseases,
amenorrhoea, cough and asthma.
Seed oil- hook-worms
52 Ficus racemosa L.
Moraceae Dumur Shrub Fruit Jaundice, diabetes. Fruits are
cooked with mustard oil and taken
as vegetable
53 Ficus rumphii Blume. Moraceae Ashok, Pakur Tree Bark Hematuria (passing of blood with
urine).Juice obtained from crushed
bark is taken with honey.
54 Ficus hispida L .f. Moraceae Joggodumur Tree Fruit Fruits are taken for diabetes
55 Ficus benghalensis L. Moraceae Bot Tree Gum Kidney pain.
56 Flacourtia indica (Burm. f.)
Merr.
Flacourtiaceae Boichi, Tree Whole
plant
Fruits - jaundice and enlarged
spleen. Bark -eczema. Root -
nephritic colic. Gum - cholera
57 Foeniculum vulgare Mill. Apiaceae Pan Muhori Herb Seed Seed -diseases of the spleen,
kidney, amenorrhoea, cough and
asthma.
58 Gloriosa superba L. Liliaceae Karihari Climber Rhizome Rhizome paste –ringworm, skin
diseases.
59 Glycosmis arborea (R.) A.
DC.
Rutaceae Matmati Herb Whole
plant
Leaf juice –ascaris, liver
complaints.. Roots - low fever,
60 Gastrochilus longiflorua
Wall.
Zingiberaceae Shoti
Herb Rhizome Rhizome - fore head to cure
cataract.
61 Heliotropium indicum L. Boraginaceae
Hatishur
Herb Leaf
Leaf juice-Conjunctivitis.
62 Hemidesmus indicus (L.) R.
Br.
Apocynaceae Anantamul,
Shrub Root Root-leucoderma, paralysis, cough,
asthma
63 Hedyotis corymbosa (L.)
Link.
Rubiaceae Titkuipata Herb Whole
plant
Whole plant - jaundice, and liver
complaints.
64 Hibiscus rosa sinensis L. Malvaceae Jaba Shurb Flower Flower juice - acute dysentery, hair
fall.
65 Hyptis suaveolens (L.) Poit. Lamiaceae Tokma Herb Leaf Leaf paste - used in cancer and
tumor
66 Ipomoea batatus (L.) Lamk. Convolvulaceae MistiAlu. Herb Whole
plant
Whole plant -low fever, skin
diseases. Root - strangury and
diarrhoea
67 Ipomoea reptans Poir. Convolvulaceae KalmiShak.
Herb Whole
plant
Leaf juice -arsenic. Leaves and
seeds cooling. Buds -ringworm.
Flower - inflamed eyes as a drop.
The root juice -diarrhoea.
68 Ixora cuneifolia Roxb. Rubiaceae Musea Shrub Leaf leaf is given in fevers
69 Ixora coccinea L.
Rubiaceae
Rangan Shurb Whole
plant
Root -fever, gonorrhoea, a
dysentery; flower - bronchitis; leaf
- diarrhoea
70 Ipomoea mauritiana
Jacq.
Convolvulaceae
Vuikumra
Shrub Leaf
Sexual disorders
71 Justicia adhatoda L. Acanthaceae Asuro Shrub Leaf Leaf -treat asthma, cough. Juice of
leaf is inhaled in bleeding nose.
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72 Kalanchoe pinnata (Lam.)
Pers.
Crassulaceae Patharkuchi,
Herb Leaf Leaf -bronchial affections, kidney
stones, blood dysentery, gout and
jaundice.
73 Kalanchoe pinnata
(Lam.) Pers.
Crassulaceae Heamkancha Herb Leaf Leaf juce-Cold, polyuria (excessive
urination), Abdominal pain.
74 Lannea coromandelica
(Houtt.) Merr.
Anacardiaceae Jiga tree Bark Bark juice–Diabetes.
75 Linumusi tatissimum L. Linaceae
Tishi
Herb
seed Seed and seed oil - burns and boils.
Seed poultice - rheumatic and
swellings.
76 Lawsonia inermis L. Lythraceae Mehedi,
Shrub Leaf The leaves are emetic, diuretic
given in jaundice.
77 Leucas aspera (Willd.)
Link.
Lamiaceae Dulfi. Herb Whole
plant
Plants -snake insecticide. Leaf
juice -psoriasis, chronic skin.
78 Lantana aculeata L. Verbenaceae Chotra Shrub Leaf Leaf juice - measles, malaria and
tetanus.
79 Mimosa pudica L. Fabaceae, lajjaboti Herb
Whole
plant
Leaf paste is applied on hydrocele.
Leaf and root - piles.
80 Mimusop selengi L. Sapotaceae Bokul Tree Bark
Coughs, toothache
81 Moringa oleifera Lam. Moringaceae
Sajnagach
Tree Leaf
Leaf juice-Diabetes, acidity,
hypertension.
82 Musa sapientum L.
Musaceae
kola
Herb Leaf Diarrhea, diabetes, blood purifier,
coughs, dysentery, insect bite.
83 Menispermum cordifolium
Willd.
Menispermacea
e
Gulancha Climber Whole
plant
Whole plant - pimples, gonorrhoea,
cough, fever, skin affections
84 Momordica charantia L. Cucurbitaceae
Usta
climbers Fruit Diabetes, cancer, headache, skin
Disorder.
85 Mesua nagassarium
(Burm. F.) Kosterm.
Clusiaceae
Nageshwar
Herb Flower Fever.
86 Mangifera indica L. Anacardiaceae Aam Tree Leaf Diarrhea, headache
87 Nerium indicum Mill.
Apocynaceae Korobi Shrub Whole
plant
Leaf - itch, .flowers- headache,
scabies. Root and root bark-
cancer, ulcers, Roots and leaf-skin
diseases and leprosy
88 Nicotiana tabacum Solanaceae Tamak,
Tobacco.
Herb Leaf Used for the treatment of rheumatic
swellings, skin diseases.
89 Nigelia sativa L. Ranunculacee Kalojira, Herb Seeds Purgative drugs; good in cough,
jaundice and piles.
90 Nyctanthes arbortristis L. Oleaceae Shefali Tree Whole
plant
Leaves - rheumatism. Bark -cures
bronchitis. Flowers -lessen
inflammation. Seeds -skin diseases.
91 Nymphaea nouchali. Burm.
F.
Nymphaeaceae Shapla Herb Whole
plant
Flower- cough, bile, vomiting,
worms ; filament- pile; seed -
cutaneous disease
92 Ocimum tenuiflorum L. Lamiaceae. KaloTulsi
Herb Whole
plant
plant is given in fever, cough, cold,
headache, nausea and skin
diseases.
93 Opuntia elatior Mill. Cactaceae Phanimansa Shrub Whole
plant
Whole plant juice - whooping
cough, ashma and gonorrhea
94 Oxalis corniculata L. Oxalidaceae Amrul Herb Whole
plant
Whole plant juice – fever, anaemia.
95 Piper betel L. Piperaceae Pan,
Betel-leaf,
Climbers Leaf Leaf juce-Sexual problems,
indigestion, colic, diarrhea,
headache.
96 Phyllanthus acidus L. Euphorbiaceae Arboroi,
Harbori,
.
Tree Fruit Used in bronchitis, biliousness,
urinary concretions and piles;
useful in thirst, vomiting and
constipation.
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97 Phyllanthus emblica L. Euphorbiaceae. Amaloki Tree Fruit Fruits decoction is given orally in
shore throat and as tonic.
98 Physalis micrantha link. Solanaceae Phutka Herb Fruit Fruit -gonorrhea and spleen
disorder
99 Phoenix sylvestris L. Arecaceae Khajur Palm
tree
Juice Juice – gonorrhea, cough, fever.
100 Polygonum orientale L. Polygonaceae Bishkatali Herb Whole
plant
Whole plant - healing wounds.
101 Punicagra natum L. Lythraceae Dalim Shrub Bark Bark juice-dysentery.
102 Piper nigrum L.
Piperaceae
Golmorich
Shrub Fruit Cold, jaundice, Rabies, gastric
problems, ulcer, dysentery.
103 Psidium guyava L.
Myrtaceae Peyara Tree Whole
plant
Fruits-diarrhea and dysentery ,
Young leaf extract -antibacterial
and antifungal properties
104
Paederia foetida L.
Rubiaceae
Gondhovadal, Herb Leaf Indigestion, gout and Urinary
stone.
105 Rauvolfia serpentina
Benth.exKurz
Apocynaceae, Sarpagandha Shrub Whole
plant
Reduce high blood pressure. Root
infusion is given orally in intestinal
disorders.
106 Ricinus communis L. Euphorbiaceae Bherenda Shrub Whole
plant
Leaf - galactagogue, headache.
Seeds paste- counter irritant.
107 Santalum album L. Santalaceae Shetchondon Tree Stem Dysentery. Beauty
108 Shorea robusta C.F. Gaertn., Dipterocarpacea
e,
Shal Tree Bark, Bark juice is used as eardrop in
earache.
109 Smilax zeylanica L. Smilacaceae Kumrakhata Climbers Whole
plant
Sexual problems
110 Solanum violaceum Orteg. Solanaceae Tit baegun Herb Fruit Snake bite, itches
111 Saccharum officinarum L. Poaceae
Kushul, Aakh Herb Stem Indigestion. Jaundice
112 Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels Myrtaceae Jam Tree Whole
plant
Bark, Leaf and seed powder is
given orally to reduce sugar level
in blood
113 Tamarindus indica L. Caesalpiniaceae Tetul,
Tree Fruit Used in asthma, fever, and
topically for loss of sensation in
paralysis.
114 Terminalia arjuna (Roxb. ex
DC.) Wight &Arn.
Combretaceae
Arjun
Tree Bark
Low sperm count, dysentery, heart
Disease.
115 Terminalia belerica
(Gaertn.) Roxb.
Combretaceae Bohera Tree Whole
plant
Bark juice-cut, wounds, and skin
diseases. Fruits powder- cough,
cold, respiratory problems.
116 Terminalia chebula
Retz.
Combretaceae. Horitoki Tree Whole
plant
Bark - urinary problems. Fruits -
cough, cold, respiratory troubles,
fever.
117 Terminalia catappa L. Combretaceae. Kath badam Tree Leaf Leaf juice-Skin disorder
118 Typhonium trilobatum (L.)
Schott.
Araceae Ghetkol Herb Whole
plant
Whole plant - stomach complaints
119 Vitex negundo L.
Vitaceae, Nishindagach Shrub Leaf Leaf juice is given orally in cough,
cold, sinusitis, fever, stomach
problems.
120 Wedelia chinensis (O.)
Merr.
Asteraceae Kesraj Herb Leaf Leaf juice - orally in cough, cold;
bark paste - applied on boils
121 Xanthium indicum Koenig.
L.
Asteraceae Ghagra Herb Whole
plant
Roots-cancer. Fruits –cooling,
demulcent. Seeds-swelling. Leaf -
malaria
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Table 3: Family of the medicinal plant species
Family Plants
no
Family Plants
no
Family Plants
no
Family Plants
no
Acanthaceae 3 Cactaceae 1 Linaceae 1 Polygonaceae 1
Aloaceae 1 Caricaceae 1 Lythraceae 2 Poaceae 3
Amaranthaceae 1 Combretaceae 4 Loranthaceae 1 Pontederiaceae 1
Anacardiaceae 2 Convolvulaceae 4 Malvaceae 2 Ranunculacee 1
Annonaceae 1 Crassulaceae 1 Menispermaceae 1 Rubiaceae 6
Apocynaceae 7 Cucurbitaceae 2 Meliaceae 1 Rutaceae 3
Araceae 2 Cyperaceae 1 Mimosaceae 1 Sapotaceae 1
Arecaceae 3 Clusiaceae 1 Moraceae 5 Scorphulariaceae 2
Apiaceae 2 Cannaceae 1 Moringaceae 1 Solanaceae 5
Vitaceae 2 Dilleniaceae 1 Musaceae 1 Sterculiaceae 1
Woodsiaceae 1 Dipterocarpaceae 1 Myrtaceae 2 Santalaceae 1
Asteraceae 6 Euphorbiaceae 5 Nymphaeaceae 1 Smilacaceae 1
Brassicaceae 1 Fabaceae 3 Nyctaginaceae 1 Verbenaceae 1
Bombacaceae 1 Flacourtiaceae 1 Oleaceae 1 Zingiberaceae 2
Boraginaceae 1 Lamiaceae 3 Oxalidaceae 2
Caesalpiniaceae 1 Liliaceae 2 Piperaceae 2
Sources of medicinal plant
The study was reported in Table 4 that
58.6% of the respondents collected different
medicinal plants species from fallow land and
road side. This is naturally grown. On the other
hand, 20.7%, 13.8%, and 6.7% of the
respondents collected medicinal plants from
local market, vesoj nursery sources and
neighbor’s house, respectively.
Medicinal value of different plant species
Among the selected species, parts used wise
contribution was maximum for whole plant
with 46 species (38%) followed by the leaf
with 26 species (22%), fruit with 15 species
(12%), bark with 10 species (8%), seeds with 5
species (4%), root and stem with 4 species
(3%), rhizome with 3 species (2%), gum, latex
and flower with 2 species (2%), juice and tuber
with 1 species 1% respectively (Fig 2).
Ornamental with 25 species (21%), fruit with
23 species (19%) and timber with 22 species
(18%) were documented (Fig 3).
Use of medicinal plants against different
diseases
The medicinal plants were reported to be
effective against diarrhea, cough and cold, skin
diseases, cuts and wounds, joint pain,
headache, consumption, eye disorders, antidote
for harmful insect bites, stomach disorders,
urinary troubles, liver complaints, digestive
problems, jaundice, asthma, bronchitis,
inflammations, anemia, piles, mental disorder,
abdominal pain, bone fracture, paralysis,
impotency, indigestion, cancer, general
weakness, skin burns, diabetes, fungal
infection, gonorrhoea, gastric problems, sexual
disorders, syphilis, leprosy, wounds and insect-
bites by the responding Kavirajas and local
inhabitants. However, various parts from the
same plant were observed to be used to treat
different diseases. A single plant part also
would be used for treatment of multiple
diseases. For example, Seeds of Datura metel
L. are used to treat skin rashes, ulcers,
bronchitis, jaundice and diabetes (Khaton and
Shaik, 2012).To cite one instance of each, the
bark of Lannea coromandelica was used for
treatment of diabetes. The barks of Mangifera
indica were used for treatment of diarrhea,
while young leaves of the same plant were used
for treatment of headache. The leaves of Aloe
barbadensis were used for treatment of two
highly different ailments like dysuria and
constipation. Paste of leaves of Glycosmis
arborea with ginger is used in eczema and skin
affections. Leaf juice of Nyctanthes arbor-
tristis with honey the juice is given in chronic
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 10–22
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fever. The anti-diabetic activities of whole
plants or plant parts of Catharanthus roseus,
Ficus racemosa, Moringa oleifera, Musa
sapientum, and Syzygium cumini have also been
reported which goes very well with previous
surveys conducted by Rasineni et al., 2010;
Islam et al., 2009; Hafizur et al., 2011;
Sangsuwan et al., 2004; Ahmed and Urooj,
2010; Jaiswal et al., 2009; Adewoye et al.,
2009; Pandey and Khan, 2002. The scientific
validation of medicinal plant usage by the
Kavirajas that could be helpful to modern
science for extensive investigation of the plants
used.
Table 4 Sources of planting materials of medicinal plant species
Sources Respondent Percentage (%) Rank
No.
Fallow land and road side 17 58.6 1
Local market 6 20.7 2
Vesojnursery 4 13.8 3
Neighbors house 2 6.7 4
Fig 2 Useable parts of medicinal plant in this area
Fig 3 Different medicinal plant species in this area
38%
22%
12%
8%
4%
3%
3%2%
2% 2% 2%1%1%
Whole plant
Leaf
Fruit
Bark
Seed
Root
Stem
Rhizome
Gum
Latex
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Threatened medicinal plant species
It is identified that 28 medicinal plants
which are under threat now in Bangladesh. In
the study area, we found amloki, arjun,
helencha, mander, shefali, lajjaboti, kathbadam
hatishur and bel are likely to be threatened.
CONCLUSIONS
There were many important medicinal plant
species available in the study area and these
could be promising source of manufacturing
modern medicine in Bangladesh and source of
income generation to the rural households. The
common people were found to encourage using
medicinal plants for ailments of common and
frequently caused illnesses, especially for fever,
cough, pain, catarrh etc. This was mainly
because of awareness created among the
farmers on the value of medicinal plants for
their livelihood and its impact on biodiversity
conservation. Finally, it can be concluded that
timely availability of native medicinal plant
species, development of rural and community
based resources could be useful for restoring
the eco-biodiversity processes and for
generating income for resource poor farmers
and village practitioners.
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Source of Support: Nil Conflict of Interest: None Declared
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ISSN 2277-4289 | www.gjrmi.com | International, Peer reviewed, Open access, Monthly Online Journal
THE ROLE OF PANCHAKARMA THERAPY IN MUSCULOSKELETAL
DISORDERS WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO VATAVYADHI
Dass Ranjip Kumar1*
1Assistant Professor, Dept. of Panchakarma, M.S.M. Institute of Ayurveda, B.P.S. Mahila Vishwavidyalaya,
Khanpur Kalan, Sonipat (Haryana)
*Corresponding Author: E-Mail: [email protected]
Received: 01/11/2012; Revised: 25/12/2012; Accepted: 31/12/2012
ABSTRACT
The collective meaning of Vatavyadhi indicates the specific disorders occurring due to the Vata
Dosha. Due to various etiological factors, Whenever Vata Dosha (the humor called Vata in
Ayurveda) gets vitiated it at first enters in all Srotases (the empty channels) of the body and then
creates different types of Vata disorders described in classical Ayurvedic texts including
Musculoskeletal disorders like Ardita (Facial Paralysis), Pakshaghata (Hemiplegia), Mansa
Shosa/Kshaya (Muscular Dystrophy), Joint Disorders (SandhiVata, AmaVata, Vatarakta etc.), Asthi
Shosa/Kshaya (Osteoporosis.), Myopathy etc. But when it is obstructed (Avrita) by various Dhatus,
then mainly Mansa, Meda & Asthi Dhatus (various tissues) are affected as they are the main
constituents of our body & the chief sites of Vata Dosha. As a result of these, Dhatu Kshaya
(Degeneration of Skeletal & Muscle tissue) occurs, by which Nervous tissues supplying the affected
parts lack proper nutrition & gets deactivated. This Pathophysiology leads to Musculoskeletal
Disorders. The classical treatments in Musculoskeletal disorders, like various Panchakarma (five
purification procedures in Ayurveda) therapies preceded by Snehana & Swedana which are used for
relaxation as well as giving tone to the muscles & for promoting the blood circulation and
Mriduvirechana with various Basti Karmas are very much beneficial which pacifies the provoked
Vata Dosha, increases strength of the person, maintains health & longevity. An attempt has been
made to review the treatment procedures in Ayurveda with reference to Vatavyadhi.
KEY WORDS: Vatavyadhi, Musculoskeletal Disorders, Sanshodhana, Snehena, Swedana
Review article
Cite this article
Dass Ranjip Kumar (2013), THE ROLE OF PANCHAKARMA THERAPY IN
MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO
VATAVYADHI, Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med., Volume 2(1): 23–29
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 23–29
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
INTRODUCTION
Ayurveda is entitled as a “Divine science”
due to its origin as well as its unimaginable
potency in curing the diseases and protecting
the health of a healthy person, physically and
mentally. Even centuries after its golden
period, Ayurveda continues to play a major role
in maintaining the health status of majority of
Indians and some sections of people of many
other countries. The world is recognizing
Ayurveda as a system which can become a
universal health care system in treating a
number of diseases which has minimal
treatment options in the contemporary sciences.
(Sudev C et al., 2012).
The word “Vatavyadhi” has been composed
from the different words Vata and Vyadhi. Vata
is considered to be the most powerful and
active amongst the three Doshas. As we know
that
“Pitta Pangu Kapha Pangu Pangavo
Mala Dhatavah
Vayuna Yatra Niyante Tatra Gachhanti
Meghavat ‟‟ (Sha.Pu.5/25)
Vayu is the main element of body among 3
Doshas which give support to the body &
controls all the activities of body. Pitta, Kapha,
Mala & Dhatus are functionless without Vata.
That means it motivates & controls all other
Doshas, Dhatus & Malas. It has also
predominant influence on the 3 principal routes
of diseases namely as Sakha, Kostha &
MarmAsthisandhi. Moreover Vayu is
responsible for the formation, communication
& spread of Sweda, Mala, Mutra, Kapha &
other biological substances in the body. It
increases the strength of muscles & maintains
health and longevity. Although the entire body
is the dwelling of three Dosha – Vata, Pitta and
Kapha, but the prime importance has been
given to Vata due to its capacity to move in the
entire body without help of other Doshas. To
explore the supremacy of Vata, it has been
mentioned that “Vayu is life and vitality; Vayu
is the supporter of all embodied beings; Vayu is
verily the whole universe and Vayu is the lord
of all. Thus is Vayu extolled” (Charaka, 200
BC). By this reference, it is clear that Vayu is
the main factor, which is responsible for the
healthy and diseased status of the individual.
Pitta and Kapha have also a capacity to disturb
the normal state of the health, but they are
crippling without the support of Vata. Due to
the higher efficacy, Vata can produce eighty
types of defects and derangements in the body.
The word “Vyadhi” i.e. Disorder is
suggestive of circumstances in which body and
mind both are in distress. In this way the
collective meaning of Vatavyadhi indicates the
specific disorders occurring due to the Vata
Dosha. While commenting on the word
“Vatavyadhi” Chakrapani (the commentator on
Charaka Samhita) has given two definitions of
it. – “Vata Eva Vyadhi Vatavyadhih”. Which
means Vata, itself disordered and combined
with particular Dushyas attains the form of
generalized or localized affections and because
of producing pain it is called as Vatavyadhi.
“Vataat Vyadhi Vatavyadhi”. It means that
Vata Dosha causes the disease by particular
pathogenesis in which particular type of Dosha
– Dushya Sammurcchana (the pathological
derangement of the 3 Humors & Tissue
elements in the body) leads to the particular
disease. To distinguish the Vatavyadhi from
Samanya Vyadhi, it has been mentioned that
though diseases like Jvara etc., are also caused
by Vata, the role of Pitta and Kapha in causing
Jvara can never be ruled out and hence it can
not be called a Vata Vyadhi (Chakrapani, 12th
Cent. AD). Whereas Vatavyadhi cannot be
manifestated until and unless Vata is involved
and this type of diseases of Vata are known as
Nanatmaja disorders of Vata (80 types).
The exact meaning of the word
“Vatavyadhi” is “Vata Eva Vyadhi”. It indicates
that Vata itself is a disease (Vijayraksita on
Madhav Nidnana, 11th
AD). Hence no one can
be considered as healthy because Vayu has
been called life and vitality (Charaka, 200 BC).
The other definition “Vatat Vyadhi
Vatavyadhi”, is also not suitable because
according to this definition all the diseases in
which Vata plays a major role as one of the
causative factors may be included under the
Vatavyadhi. Then there is no importance
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remains of the separate description of
Vatavyadhi. Vijayraksita has explained his own
thought about the meaning of Vatavyadhi just
after discussing on Chakrapani’s definitions of
Vatavyadhi. He explained that “Vata Janito
Asadharana Vyadhi Vatavyadhi”, means
specific diseases caused by vitiated Vata are
known as Vatavyadhi. This definition seems to
be correct because of its specificity and
differentiality from other Samanya diseases of
Vata (Vijayraksita on Madhav Nidan.– Vata
Vyadhi,11th
AD).
Pathogenesis of Vatavyadhi
“Dehe Srotansi Riktani Purayitwa Anilo
Bali
Karoti Vividhan Vyadhin Sarvangaikanga
Sansritan” (Charaka, 200 BC)
Due to Vata Prakopaka, Nidan Sevana,
Whenever Vata Dosha vitiates it at first enters
in all the empty channels (Srotas) of the body
and then creates different types of Ekangagata
(local) & Sarvangagata (general), a total 80
types of Vata disorders described by classics
including Musculoskeletal disorders like Ardita
(Facial Paralysis), Pakshaghata (Hemiplegia),
Mansa Shosa/Kshaya (Muscular Dystrophy),
Joint Disorders (SandhiVata, AmaVata,
Vatarakta etc.), Asthi Shosa/Kshaya
(Osteoporosis.), Myopathy etc.
Pathogenesis of MSD
When Vata Dosha is more provoked &
obstructed (Avrita) by Rasa, Raktadi Dhatus,
then mainly Mansa, Meda & Asthi Dhatus are
affected as they are the main constituents of
our body (As the body of human being is
mainly supported by skeletons & muscles,
which are the chief sites of Vata Dosha. As a
result of this, Asthi, Meda & Mansa Dhatu
Kshaya (Degeneration of Skeletal & Muscle
tissue) occurs, by which Nervous tissues
supplying to that affected parts lacks proper
nutrition & gets deactivated. This Patho-
physiology leads to Musculoskeletal Disorders.
According to Modern Medical Science,
disorders pertaining to both muscle & skeletal
tissue are known as Musculoskeletal Disorders
(Harrison, Principals of Internal Medicine,
2003). One should determine whether the
Musculoskeletal complaint is (1) articular or
nonarticular in origin, (2) inflammatory or
noninflammatory in nature, (3) acute or
chronic in duration, and (4) localized or
widespread (systemic) in distribution.
1) Articular disorders may be characterized by
deep or diffuse joint pain, limited range of
motion on active and passive movement,
swelling caused by synovial proliferation or
effusion or bony enlargement, crepitation,
instability, locking, or deformity.
2) By contrast, Non-articular disorders tend to
be painful on active but not passive range of
motion, demonstrate point or focal tenderness
in regions distinct from articular structures, and
have physical findings remote from the joint
capsule. Moreover, Non-articular disorders
seldom demonstrate crepitus, instability,
deformity, or swelling.
3) Inflammatory disorders may be identified by
the presence of some or all of the four cardinal
signs of inflammation (erythema, warmth, pain
&swelling), by systemic symptoms (Prolonged
morning stiffness, fatigue, fever, weight loss)
or by laboratory evidence of inflammation
(Elevated ESR or C-reactive protein level,
thrombocytosis, anemia of chronic disease, or
hypoalbuminemia).
4) Non-inflammatory disorders may be related
to trauma (rotator cuff tear), ineffective repair
(osteoarthritis), cellular overgrowth (pigmented
villo-nodular synovitis), or pain amplification
(fibromyalgia). They are often characterized by
pain without swelling or warmth, the absence
of inflammatory or systemic features, little or
no morning stiffness, and normal laboratory
findings.
In this way Individuals with
Musculoskeletal complaints should be
evaluated in a uniform, logical manner by
means of a thorough history, a comprehensive
physical examination, and if appropriate,
laboratory testing. With such an approach and
an understanding of the pathophysiologic
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processes that underlie Musculoskeletal
complaints, an adequate diagnosis can be made
in the vast majority of individuals. However,
some patients will not fit immediately into an
established diagnostic category. Many
Musculoskeletal Disorders resemble each other
at the outset, and some take weeks or months
to evolve into a readily recognizable diagnostic
entity. This consideration should temper the
desire always to establish a definitive diagnosis
at the first encounter (Harrison, 2003).
Panchakarma Therapy for Vatavyadhi w.s.r.
to Musculo Skeletal Disorders
The exposition of the line of treatment of
the diseases due to the provocation of Vata has
been given in all the major Ayurvedic texts.
Ayurveda makes a unique approach to cure.
The Ayurvedic Cure is a 2 fold strategy
comprising of 1) Samsodhana (or
Biopurification) by Pancha Karma & related
measures and 2) Samsamana (or Palliation) of
imbalances by appropriately planned diet, drug,
& life style interventions. The Ayurvedic
Classics describe the full range of therapeutics
through Sadupakarmas (Six major treatment
categories) consisting of Langhana –
Brimhana, Rukshana – Snehana, Swedan -
Stambhana. This classic scheme incorporates
both Samsodhana & Samsamana and the
popular Panchakarma Therapy is an offshoot
of the same. But the diseases as prevalent today
manifest themselves in such a complex manner
that it becomes difficult to treat them by merely
administering palliative treatment or Shamana
therapy. It has been specially mentioned that
the diseases/ Doshas controlled by Samsamana
Therapy have the possibilities of re-provoking
while there is no such probability in the
eventuality of the control of Disease /Doshas
treated by Samsodhana Therapy (Panchakarma
Therapy) (Charaka, 200 BC).
Here, the general line of treatment
mentioned for Vata disorders in relation to
Musculoskeletal disorders are being described,
(According to Charaka & Astanga Hridaya),
viz:-
Snehana (Oleation Therapy) :
Depending upon the application of
Snehana, it can be divided into 2 types, viz: 1)
Abhyantara Snehana (Internal Oleation) & 2)
Bahya Snehana (External Oleation or
Massage). If there is a simple provocation of
Vata without any Upastambha or Avarana, it
should be treated at first with oral
administration of unctuous preparations such as
Ghrta, Tailaa, Vasa and Majja. The person,
when overstrained by the Snehana should be
comforted and again Snehana should be done
with milk. Further he should be treated with
Oleated Yusas, meat juices of domestic, wet
land and aquatic animals mixed with unctuous
articles. Preparations of milk and Krisara may
be given for eating. Patient should be
administered with Anuvasana Basti having
Amla and Lavana Rasa, Snigdha Nasyas and
Tarpanas (Charaka, 200 BC).
But when Vata Dosha is more provoked &
obstructed (Avrita) by Rasa, Raktadi Dhatus,
then in this case External Oleation or Massage
therapy should be applied which is used for
relaxation as well as giving tone to the muscles,
for promoting the blood circulation & treating
various musculoskeletal disorders. It improves
the quality of skin, making it tender, delicate &
strong. Again Massage therapy is of 14 types
described in the classics at various places viz.
1) Abhyanga 2) Lepa 3) Udvartana 4) Mardana
5) Padaghata 6) Pariseka 7) Samvahana 8)
Gandusha & Kavala Graha 9) Murdha Taila –
Shira Tarpana (Shiro-Abhyanga, Shirah Seka,
Sirah Pichu & Shiro-Vasti) 10) Akshi Tarpana
11) Nasa Tarpana 12) Karna Purana 13)
Mastikya 14) Snehavagahana (Oil Bath).
For any types of Musculoskeletal Disorders
Particularly Udvartana by Yava, Masa, Masura
etc.coarse powder, Abhyanga (Massage) by
Bala Taila, Dasamula Taila, Narayana Taila,
Kshirabala Taila & Sahacharadi Taila, Lepa
by Nirgundi (Vitex nigundo) Patra, Dhatura
(Datura metel) Patra & Arka (Calotropis
procera) Patra kalka (Paste), Mardana
(Massage with pressure) by above oils (Which
removes the fatigue of muscles, relieves
myalgia & neuralgia), Snehavagahana (Tub
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Bath) by Bala taila, Pariseka by Taila, Milk or
Mansa rasa etc., Siro-vasti & Sirodhara by
Tila & Bala Taila, Siro Lepa by Amalaki Kalka
are being practiced.
Swedana (Sudation Therapy) after Snehana:
When patient becomes well oleated with
Snehana therapy he should be given Svedana
treatment. After Abhyanga the patient may be
subjected to the suitable type of Sveda like
Nadi Sveda, Prastara Sveda, Samkara Sveda
etc., in which unctuous articles should be
mixed (Tripathi Brahmanand, Hindi
commentary on Charaka Samhita, 1999). It
relieves stiffness, heaviness & coldness of the
body and liquefy the Snigdha vitiated Doshas
(Brought about by Snehana Karma) which are
spread throughout the body. As a result of this,
the vitiated Doshas are made easily eradicable
in the form of induction of sweating or with the
help of Pradhana Karma such as Vamana,
Virechana, Basti etc. Acharya Charaka has
mentioned that Swedana therapy is the best
treatment for vitiated Vata & Kapha dominant
diseases (Charaka, 200BC). The Svedana
procedures should be repeatedly administered
in order that the disorders of Vata may not stay
in the Kostha softened by Snehana procedure
(Tripathi Brahmanand, Hindi commentary on
Charaka Samhita, 1999).
Various types of Swedan Karma like Nadi
sweda, Baspa sweda by using the decoction of
Dashamula (Roots of ten drugs), Balamula
(Sida cordifolia) & Eranda (Ricinus communis)
mula (Roots), Patrapinda sweda by using
Nirgundi (Vitex nigundo) Patra (Leaves),
Sastika Shali Pindasweda by using the
decoction of Bala (Sida cordifolia) & Milk and
Pizhichil are practiced for any types of
Musculoskeletal disorders.
Samsodhana (Panchakarma Therapy): -
If due to excessive morbidity, the humors
(i.e. Vata Dosha) do not subside with the above
procedures, Samsodhana is to be given by mild
drugs mixed with unctuous articles.
Mriduvirechana (Mild Purgation):-
For this purpose the patient may take the
medicated Ghee prepared with Tilvaka or
Saatala or he may take Eranda Taila mixed
with milk, which are beneficial to expel the
morbid humors (Tripathi Brahmanand, Hindi
commentary on Charaka Samhita, 1999). By
excessive use of Snigdha, Amla, Lavana and
Usna etc. articles of diet, the Mala i.e.
excretotary matter gets accumulated and by
occluding the various Srotas, cause obstruction
to the path of Vata; hence the Anulomana of
Vata is essential to expel it out (Charaka, 200
BC) & it is possible by giving Virechana.
Basti (Therapeutic Enemata):-
The patient, who is debilitated and as a
consequence, in whom Virechana is contra-
indicated, should be given Niruha Basti. He
should be administered with the diet having
Dipana and Pachana drugs (Tripathi
Brahmanand, Hindi commentary on Charaka
Samhita, 1999). Basti is considered as the most
useful therapeutic procedures in which
medicated oils, decoctions, decoctions with
Milk, Mansa Rasa or paste of herbs or oils or
ghee are introduced into the large intestines
through rectum with the help of Basti Yantra
(Enema Apparatus). Basti produces Sodhana of
Doshas, Samsamana of the diseases, Mala
Sangrahana, Increases Shukra in Shukrakshina
patients and if the patient is Sthula (Obese), he
will become Krisa (Weak) & vice versa after
administration of Basti therapy. Basti increases
strength of the persons in whom it is advocated,
maintains health & longevity. Basti is the best
chikitsa (treatment) for Vata Doshas, so also
for Pitta, Kapha, Rakta in Sansarga &
Sannipata Doshas. Thus Basti produces
extensive benefits to each & every part of the
body. Since the Basti has the capacity to
eradicate most of diseases occurring in Sakha,
Kostha & Marma Sthana, it is referred to as
“Half of the whole treatment” and sometimes a
“Complete treatment” (Charaka, 200BC).
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Basically Basti is of two types, viz. 1)
Anuvasana Basti (By medicated oil) 2) Niruha
Basti (By decoctions of drugs indicated). Both
types of Bastis are indicated for many types of
Vata disorders. Here Anuvasana Basti in the
form of Sneha Basti (6 Pala), Anuvasana Basti
(3 Pala) & Matra Basti (11/2 Pala) by Bala
Taila is used for any types of Musculoskeletal
disorders (Like SandhiVata, Gridhrasi,
Katishula etc.). It can be administered daily
without producing any complications in the
body (Sushruta, 2000 BC). Various Niruha
Bastis like different Yapana Bastis (Mustadi
Yapana Basti, Baladi Yapana Basti, Dwitiya
Baladi Yapana Basti & Tritiya Baladi Yapana
Basti) for Mansa Shosa/Kshaya (Muscular
Dystrophy), Madhutailaika Basti & Dasamula
Niruha Basti for all types of Musculoskeletal
disorders, Panchatikta Kshira Basti for
Ankylosis Spondylosis & AmaVata, Vaitarana
Basti for AmaVata & Dasamula Kshara Basti
for AmaVata are commonly used in
Panchakarma. In most of occasions, a
combination of both these types of Bastis (Both
Anuvasana & Niruha) is given in the form of
Karma Basti (30 Number), Kala Basti (16
Number) & Yoga Basti (8 Number) except for
fewer specific indications where single or
continued use of one or the other type of these
two Bastis is indicated. Some specific types of
Basti like Kati Basti, Urah Basti, Janu Basti by
Bala Taila, Mahavisagarbha Taila,
Sahacharadi Taila, Kubja Prasarini Taila &
Panchaguna Taila for Musculoskeletal
complaints of specific part of the body are also
practiced.
In some cases of Musculoskeletal disorders
like Ardita (Facial Paralysis), Pakshaghata
(Hemiplegia), Ekangaghata (Monoplegia),
Adharangaghata (Paraplegia) &
Dhanustambha (Tetanus), Nasya Karma by
different method like by medicated oil (Anu
Taila, Brahmi Grhita etc.), by powder Katphal
(Myrica esculenta), Haridra (Curcuma longa)
etc.) & by Dhumapana, Shirodhara by
medicated oil, Takra, Dhanyamla etc. and
ShiroBasti by Bala oil, Jyotismati oil,
Himasagar oil etc. are commonly used. In all
these Panchakarma Therapy, Snehana &
Swedana procedures are done repeatedly as
Purvakarma (pre-operative procedures).
DISCUSSIONS & CONCLUSIONS
When Vata Dosha is get vitiated &
obstructed by various Dhatus, then especially
the skeletal and muscular tissues are more
affected as these are the chief sites of Vata
Dosha. As a result of this, Degeneration of
Skeletal & Muscle tissue is occurred. This
pathogenesis leads to deactivation of Nervous
tissues supplied to those affected parts. In this
way the Pathophysiology of Vatavyadhi leads
to Musculo-skeletal Disorders according to
Modern Medical Science. Now-a-days no any
permenent solutions of these cases of Musculo-
skeletal disorders has invented yet in Modern
Medical Science. But the Ayurvedic Classics
describe the full range of therapeutics through
various Panchakarma Therapies to eradicate
these complaints like Snehana & Swedana
which are used for relaxation as well as giving
tone to the muscles & for promoting the blood
circulation and Mriduvirechana with various
Basti Karmas are very much beneficial which
eradicates the provoked Vata Doshas, increases
strength of the persons, maintains health &
longevity. Various research work has also been
done on Vatavyadhi with special reference to
Muskulo-skeletal disorders in various research
institution of India, where it can be concluded
that Panchakarma Chikitsa has a major role to
eradicate any types of Musculo-skeletal
Disorder.
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REFERENCES
Charaka, (200 BC), „Charaka Chandrika‟ Hindi
Commentary by Tripathi Brahmanand
on Charaka Samhita, 6th
Edition,
Chaukhambha Surbharati Prakashan;
1999, Varanasi, Vol.I & II.: Ch. Su. 14,
16; Ch. Si. 1; Ch.Chi. 28
Harrison: Principals of Internal Medicine, 15th
edition CD-ROM (International
edition), 2003, Section-3, PP: 320
Sudev C, Suresh R D (2012), A clinical study
on Gokshuradi churna in the
management of Oligospermia, Global J
Res. Med. plants & Indigen. Med.
1(1):11–19
Sushrut, (2000 BC) „Ayurveda-Tattva-
Sandipika‟ Hindi Commentary by
Shastri Kaviraja Ambikadutta, Sushruta
Samhita, 11th
Edition, Chaukhambha
Sanskrit Sansthan; 1997, Varanasi, ,
Vol. I Su.Ch.35/18, PP: 154
Tripathi Brahmanand (1999), „Charaka
Chandrika‟ Hindi Commentary on
Charaka Samhita, 6th
Edition,
Chaukhambha Surbharati Prakashan;
1999, Varanasi, Vol. II.: Ch.Chi.28
Source of Support: Nil Conflict of Interest: None Declared
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ISSN 2277-4289 | www.gjrmi.com | International, Peer reviewed, Open access, Monthly Online Journal
A CLINICAL STUDY TO COMPARE VIRECHANA AND
JALAUKAVACHARANA PROCEDURES IN THE MANAGEMENT OF
VICHARCHIKA
Dass Ranjip Kumar¹, Nayak Annada Prasad²*
¹ Assistant Professor, Dept. of Panchakarma, M.S.M. Institute of Ayurveda, B.P.S. Mahila Vishwa vidyalaya,
Khanpur Kalan, Sonipat, Haryana, India
² Assistant Professor, Dept. of Kayachikitsa, M.S.M. Institute of Ayurveda, B.P.S. Mahila Vishwa vidyalaya,
Khanpur Kalan, Sonipat, Haryana, India
*Corresponding Author: E-Mail: [email protected]
Received: 10/12/2012; Revised: 27/12/2012; Accepted: 03/01/2013
ABSTRACT
Now-a-days, Vicharchika (one among 11 types of mild skin diseases as per Ayurveda) has
become one of the prime skin diseases at general O.P.D. level due to offensive diet habits, fast life
style, industrial and occupational hazard, repeated use of chemical additives etc. Ayurveda has a lot
to offer in this regard since times immemorial. Virechana (Purgation) is the chiefly advocated,
purificatory measure in this disease and so it was taken in the present study for treatment purpose.
Considering Rakta dushti (vitiation of blood) in all types of skin diseases, Jalaukavacharana
(bloodletting by Leech) provides excellent results by its ideal method to expel out the vitiated blood
safely, quickly and effectively. In this study total 28 patients were randomly distributed into two
groups, as Group – A, where the patients were given Virechana (purgation) by classical method
followed by Gandhaka Rasayana (an Ayurveda medicine prepared from purified Sulphur) for 1
month and Group– B, where the patients were given four sittings of Jalaukavacharana for 1 month
followed by Gandhaka Rasayana for 1 month. It was concluded that although Virechana (purgation)
has provided significant relief in the symptoms of Vicharchika yet, Jalaukavacharana (bloodletting
by Leech) has provided relatively better relief in most of the symptoms.
KEY WORDS: Virechana (purgation), Jalaukavacharana Karma (bloodletting by Leech),
Vicharchika (one among 11 types of mild skin diseases as per Ayurveda), Shamana drug (Palliation
drugs)
Research article
Cite this article:
Dass Ranjip K, Nayak A P (2013), A CLINICAL STUDY TO COMPARE VIRECHANA AND
JALAUKAVACHARANA PROCEDURES IN THE MANAGEMENT OF VICHARCHIKA,
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med., Volume 2(1): 30–39
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INTRODUCTION
The skin is a highly complex organ which
plays vital role in the body‟s general
functioning. Skin is described as an ornament
of the body in classics. The study of Indian
medical classics reveals that all skin diseases
were described under the broad heading of
“Kushtha” (Skin diseases). According to
Vagbhattaa(who wrote astanga hridaya),
Kushtha (skin disease) (Vagbhatta, 4th
AD) is
a disease which involves breakage in the charm
of skin.
Sushruta (who wrote Susruta sahmita) has
described Vicharchika (one among 11 types of
mild skin diseases as per Ayurveda) as one of
the Kshudra Kustha (11 mild skin diseases)
(Susruta, 2000 BC). The Vicharchika simulate
with Eczema. It is one of the blazing problems
in the society as accurate medicament is not
available to treat the disease and to control its
reappearance. The Shodhana (Purification)
therapy and Shamana (palliative medicines)
treatment forms the core of this reputed
discipline of medicine. Because of preventive,
promoting, prophylactic and rejuvenating
properties as well as providing a radical cure;
Panchakarma (five purification procedures) is
a very unique therapeutic procedure, serving as
a Shodhana (purification) therapy. Virechana
(Purgation) procedure has been selected for the
present study, is chiefly advocated for
purification measure in Vicharchika (one
among 11 types of mild skin diseases as per
Ayurveda) (Charaka, 200 BC). Though the
pathology of kustha (Skin diseases) establishes
raktadusti (vitiation of blood),
Jalaukavacharana (bloodletting by Leech) is
being advocated here to expel out the vitiated
blood safely.
With this point of view, a study was
undertaken to evaluate the effects of virechana
(purgation) and Jalaukavacharana
(bloodletting by Leech) in the management of
Vicharchika.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
A. Selection of Patients
Total 28 patients fulfilling the criteria for
diagnosis (mentioned below) of the disease
were registered for the present study
irrespective of the age, sex, religion, etc.
Among these, 8 patients left full course of the
treatment before the completion of the therapy.
All patients were selected from the O.P.D. and
I.P.D. of the Department of Panchakarma (five
purification procedures). Institutional ethics
committee has approved the trial on 24.05.11
with letter no. Inst. Ayu. /11/2447.
B. Criteria for Diagnosis
The patients were diagnosed on the basis of
classical signs and symptoms (Kandu (itching),
Pidaka (Eruption)), Shyavata (darkness of
skin), Srava (secretion) etc.) of Vicharchika
(one among 11 types of mild skin diseases as
per Ayurveda) described in Ayurvedic classics.
Inclusion criteria:
Age more than 15 years and less than 70
years. Patients fulfilling the symptomatology of
Vicharchika (one among 11 types of mild skin
diseases as per Ayurveda), like Kandu
(itching), Pidaka (Eruption), Shyavata
(darkness of skin), Srava (secretion) etc.
Exclusion criteria:
Patients suffering from Diabetes Mellitus,
Hypertension with hyperlipidemia, age less
than 15 years and more than 70 years and
patients having any other systemic disorders.
Scoring criteria:
Table -1, Kandu (Itching)
Score Grade
1 Often mild type of itching (1–2 times in a day
2 Moderate itching along with mild itching episode (1–2 times in a day)
3 Moderate itching along with moderate itching episode (3–4 times in a
day)
4 Severe itching episode (more than 5 times a day even)
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Table -2, Daha (Burning sensation)
0 No burning sensation even after rubbing
1 Mild type of burning sensation, sometime and not disturbing
normal activity
2 After rubbing mild type of burning sensation
3 Severe burning sensation disturbing normal activity
Table -3, Shrava (secretion)
0 No discharge
1 Moisture on the skin lesion
2 Weeping from the skin lesion
3 Weeping from the skin lesion followed by crusting
Table -4, Rukshata (Dryness/Roughness)
0 No dryness (Snigdha)
1 Dryness with rough skin (Ruksha)
2 Dryness with scaling (Khara)
3 Dryness with cracking (Parushang)
Table -5, Pidika (Eruption)
0 No eruption in the lesion
1 Scanty eruption in few lesion
2 Scanty eruption in at least half of the lesion
3 All the lesions full of eruption
Table -6, Vaivarnya (De-pigmentation)
0 Nearly normal skin color
1 Brownish red discoloration
2 Blackish red discoloration
3 Blackish discoloration
Table -7, Raji (Thickening Of Skin)
0 No thickening of the skin
1 Thickening of the skin but no criss-cross marking
2 Thickening of skin with criss-cross marking
3 Severe lichenification
Grouping Pattern:
The patients were randomly distributed in to 2 groups.
Table -8, Distribution of 28 patients of Vicharchika (one among 11 types of mild skin diseases
as per Ayurveda) in both groups
Patients No. of Patients
Group A Group B
Total
Completed 10 10 20
LAMA 05 03 08
Total 15 13 28
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Group-A (Virechana (purgation) + Shamana
(Palliative) drugs):
Method of Virechana (purgation) (Dwivedi
Acharya Mukundilal, 2008):
Virechana (Purgation) was carried out as
per classical indications.
Purva Karma (preparatory procedure):
Abhyantara Snehapana (Internal oleation)
was carried out by Shuddha Ghrita (pure
ghee)in increasing dose starting from 30 ml
then in multiplication for a maximum of 7
days as per the conditions of Agni
(digestive capacity) and Koshtha (bowel
habit) of patient till the occurrence of
Samyak Snigdha Lakshana (symptoms of
proper oleation).
Sarvang Abhyanga (whole body massage)
and Mrudu Vaspa Sweda (mild fomentation
by steam) were performed after getting the
Samyak Siddha Snehapana lakshanas
(symptoms of proper oleation) for 3 days in
morning and evening
Pradhana Karma (main procedure)
(Kasture H. S., (2004): After proper
Snehana-Swedana (Oleation and
fomentation), patients were given
Virechaka Yoga (purgation drugs) on empty
stomach.
Virechana Yoga (medicines for purgation)
(Charaka, 200 BC) was prepared by
Triphala + Trivrita + Danti along with
Eranda Taila and Icchabhedi Rasa (if
needed).
Pashchat Karma (post purification
procedure): Samsarjana Krama (special
dietary regimens after purgation) was given
as per type of purification and in sequence
mentioned by classics.
Shamana (Palliative) drug: After completion of
Virechana (purgation) process and Samsarjana
Krama (special dietary regimens after
purgation), the patients were given powder of
Gandhaka Rasayana (Shastri Laxmipati, 2004)
as a Shamana Yoga (Palliative formulation) in
the dose of 5 gm/day in Capsule form into three
divided doses for the duration of 30 days with
water as Anupana (adjuvant during intake of
medicine).
Group-B (Jalaukavacharana (bloodletting by
Leech) + Shamana (palliative) drug ):
Jalaukavacharana (bloodletting by Leech):
In this group one sitting of Jalaukavacharana
(bloodletting by Leech) was carried out on
every week for four weeks. Number of
Jalaukas (leeches) used per sitting were
decided depending upon the condition of
affected lesion.
Shamana (Palliative) drugs: After completion
of four sittings of Jalaukavacharana
(bloodletting by Leech) the patients were given
powder of Gandhaka Rasayana as a Shamana
Yoga (palliative formulation) in the dose of 5
gm/day in Capsule form into three divided
doses for the duration of 30 days with water as
Anupana (adjuvant during intake of medicine).
Criteria for Overall Effect of Therapy
The total effect of the therapy was assessed
considering the following criteria.
Cured: 100% relief in the sign and
symptoms with plain skin surface and
significant changes in color of the affected
skin lesion towards normal were considered
as cured.
Complete remission: More than 75% relief
in the signs and symptoms were recorded as
complete remission with marked
improvement in pigmentation and
thickening of the skin.
Marked Improvement: 51–75% relief in
sign and symptoms were considered
showing marked improved with moderate
improvement in pigmentation and
thickening of the skin.
Improvement: Patients showing
improvement in between 26–50% in sign
and symptoms with slight improvement of
pigmentation and thickening of the skin
was taken as improvement.
Unchanged: Below 25% relief in sign and
symptoms was considered as unchanged.
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 30–39
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Statistical Analysis:
The information gathered on the basis of
classical symptomatology was subjected to
statistical analysis in term of mean (X),
standard deviation (SD) and standard error
(SE). Paired „t‟ test was carried out at P <
0.10, P < 0.05, P < 0.01, P < 0.001
significance level. The obtained results
were interpreted as –
Insignificant - P > 0.05
Significant - P < 0.05
Highly significant - P < 0.01, P < 0.001.
DRUGS CONTRIVE:
Snehapana (internal oleation): by Suddha
Ghrita (pure ghee) 30ml/day increasing
dose
Abhyanga (oil massage): by Bala taila q.s.
for twice 3 days
Swedana (fomentation): by Baspa Sweda
(steam bath) for 20 mins for twice 3 days
Virechana Yoga (formulation for purgation)
contains:-
- Triphala Kwatha (decoction of three
herbal fruit): 100 ml
- Trivrita Churna (powder of Operculina
turpethum): 50 gm
- Danti Churna (powder Baliospermum
Montanum): 25 gm
- Eranda Taila (castor oil): 50 ml
- Ichchabhedi Rasa (an Ayurvedic
medicine): 2 Tab. (S.O.S.)
Samsarjan karma (special dietary regimens
after purgation): by Peya, Vilepee (recipe
made from rice) etc as per texts.
For Virechana (purgation), drug was
attributed in accordance with Charaka (the
author of Charaka Samhita) in which
combination of Triphala, Trivrit, Danti,
Eranda Taila was given after considered
necessary Snehapana (internal oleation) by
Suddha Ghrita (pure ghee). Here Combination
of medicine taken for Virechana (purgation),
act like: Triphala (fruit of Terminalia chebula,
Terminalia bellirica, and Emblica officinalis) is
mild laxative in action, Trivritta (Operculina
turpethum) has property to liquefy the Mala
(fecal matter) of Annarasa (chyle), Danti
(Baliospermum Montanum) acts as strong
Virechaka (purgative) which cleans Annavaha
Srotas (alimentary canal) by removing sticking
Mala also and Eranda Taila (castor oil)
provides soothing effect to intestinal mucosal
membranes to ease Virechana (purgation).
Jalaukavacharana (bloodletting by Leech)
(Charaka, 200 BC) is the safest and scientific
method amongst Raktamokshana (bloodletting)
procedures.
Merely Panchakarma (five purification
procedures) is not the complete treatment, but
it is just a preparatory procedure for application
of medicaments; hence Gandhaka Rasayana
(Shastri Laxmipati, 2004) (an Ayurveda
medicine prepared from purified Sulphur) in
the dose of 5 gm/day for 30 days for both
groups is chosen as a Shamana (palliative) drug
after the completion of Shodhana (purification)
procedure.
RESULTS
Observations
Observations of Group-A: Samyaka
Snehana (proper oleation) was found on 7th
day
in 70.00% of patients. Total amount of
Abhyantara Snehana (Internal oleation) was
about 840 ml in 70.00% of cases. 40.00% of
the patients showed Madhyama Shuddhi
(medium purification).
Observations of Group-B: Maximum 40%
patients were used nearly 16–20 Jalauka
(leech) during full course of treatment, whereas
30% patients were used 21–25 number of
jalauka (leech), 10% patients were used 25–30
Jalauka (leech) and 20% patients were used
11–15 jalauka (leech). . Maximum 55% of
Jalauka (leech) have been sucked for 1–2 h.
The effect of both therapies in various
symptoms of the diseases can be highlighted as
follows -
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 30–39
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
Table no.-9, The Effect of Therapies on Individual Signs and Symptoms
Sr.
No.
Symptoms % of Relief
Group-A Group-B
1 Kandu (Itching) 48.15 (>0.05) 69.70 (<0.001)
2 Daha (Burning sensation) 57.15 (<0.05) 76.31 (<0.001)
3 Pidika (eruption) 36.85 (<0.001) 58.35 (<0.05)
4 Srava (Secretions) 61.89 (<0.01) 75.00 (<0.01)
5 Vaivarnya (De-pigmentation) 25.64 (<0.01) 38.24 (<0.001)
6 Shotha (Inflammation) 61.11 (<0.01) 87.50 (<0.001)
7 Rukshta (Dryness) 33.33 (>0.05) 55.17 (<0.01)
8 Raji (Thickening Of Skin) 24.98 (<0.05) 66.67 (<0.01)
Graph No.-1, The Effect of Therapies on Individual Signs and Symptoms
Table No.-10 : Overall effect on symptoms of Virechana Karma (Purgation) + Shamana
Chikitsa (Palliative treatment) in Group-A
Sr.
No.
Symptoms BT AT X % SD SE T P
1 Kandu(n=10) 2.700 1.400 1.300 48.15↓ 0.823 0.260 1.300 >0.05
2 Daha(n=10) 2.000 0.857 1.143 57.15↓ 0.900 0.340 3.360 <0.05
3 Pidika(n=6) 2.111 1.333 0.778 36.85↓ 0.441 0.147 5.292 <0.001
4 Srava(n=8) 2.333 0.889 1.444 61.89↓ 1.014 0.338 4.274 <0.01
5 Vaivarnya(n=10) 3.900 2.900 1.000 25.64↓ 0.816 0.258 3.873 <0.01
6 Sotha(n=10) 1.800 0.700 1.100 61.11↓ 0.748 0.233 4.714 <0.01
7 Rukshta(n=10) 2.625 2.250 0.875 33.33↓ 1.356 0.479 1.823 >0.05
8 Raji(n=9) 2.222 1.667 0.555 24.98↓ 0.527 0.176 3.162 <0.05
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 30–39
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Table No.-11 Overall effect on symptoms of Jalaukavacharana Karma (Leech therapy) +
Shamana Chikitsa (Palliative treatment) in Group-B
Sr.
No.
Symptoms BT AT _
X
% SD SE t P
1 Kandu(n=10) 3.300 1.000 2.300 69.70↓ 0.789 0.249 8.820 <0.001
2 Daha(n=10) 2.330 0.552 1.778 76.31↓ 0.440 0.146 12.090 <0.001
3 Pidika(n=6) 2.000 0.833 1.167 58.35↓ 0.753 0.307 3.796 <0.05
4 Srava(n=8) 1.500 0.375 1.125 75.00↓ 0.835 0.295 3.813 <0.01
5 Vaivarnya(n=10) 3.400 2.100 1.300 38.24↓ 0.675 0.213 6.091 <0.001
6 Sotha(n=10) 1.600 0.200 1.400 87.50↓ 0.699 0.221 6.331 <0.001
7 Rukshta(n=10) 2.900 1.300 1.600 55.17↓ 1.350 0.427 3.748 <0.01
8 Raji(n=9) 2.667 0.889. 1.778 66.67↓ 1.202 0.401 4.438 <0.01
It can be observed from the above
mentioned table that although Virechana
(Purgation) has provided significant relief in
the symptoms of Vicharchika (one among 11
types of mild skin diseases as per Ayurveda),
yet, Jalaukavacharana (bloodletting by Leech)
has provided relatively better relief in most of
the symptoms.
Overall effect of therapy
Complete remission was found in 30 %
patient of Group-B, Marked improvement was
noted in 40% patients of Group-A and only
10% patients of Group-B, Moderate
improvement was observed in 30% patient in
Group-A where 60% shows improved effective
result in Group-B, Unchanged was noted in
30% patients of only in Group-A as shown on
table no.13 and Graph no.2.
The effect of all the therapies viz.
Jalaukavacharana (Leech therapy) on the
cardinal signs and symptoms of the disease was
remarkable; however, Virechana (purgation)
provided comparatively better relief.
This showed that Jalaukavacharana Karma
(Leech therapy) is more effective in curing the
disease in comparison to Virechana
(purgation).
Table No.-13- Overall Effect of therapy in both groups
Sr. No. Result Group-A % Group-B %
1 Complete remission 0 00 3 30
2 Marked improvement 4 40 1 10
3 Improvement 3 30 6 60
4 Unchanged 3 30 0 00
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 30–39
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
Graph No.-2, Total Effect of therapy in both groups
DISCUSSION
Commonest age of occurrence of
Vicharchika has been reported between 41–50
years. Cool atmosphere is much susceptible for
eczematous patients. Vicharchika (one among
11 types of mild skin diseases as per Ayurveda)
is Kaphapradhana Vyadhi. (Kapha dominant
disease) (Charaka, 200 BC). So humid, cold,
watery contacts may increases the symptoms of
Vicharchika (one among 11 types of mild skin
diseases as per Ayurveda). Excessive intake of
Lavana (salty diet), Katu (pungent diet) and
Madhura rasa (sweetening diet) are common
causative factors for Vicharchika (one among
11 types of mild skin diseases as per
Ayurveda). Viharaja Nidana (unlawful habit)
like allergic factors and industrial pollutants
can be considered as main causative factors
behind the increasing incidence of Vicharchika.
Same as Kushtha (skin disease), Vicharchika
(one among 11 types of mild skin diseases as
per Ayurveda) is also Tridhoshik (three basic
constituent of body as vata, pitta and kapha) in
which Kapha (one among three basic
constituent) and Vata (one among three basic
constituent) are dominant involved.
Disturbed sleep is interesting symptoms of
Vicharchika (one among 11 types of mild skin
diseases as per Ayurveda), which leads Vata
prakopa (vitiation of vata) and may further
deteriorate the diseased condition. Hence, it
becomes a vicious cycle. Leech saliva, contains
Hirudin, which has property of anti coagulants.
So it may be helpful in other skin diseases,
obstructive blood disorders like Thrombosis,
Hemangioma, and Gangrene etc.
Probable Mode of Action of Virechana
karma (Purgation):
Snehapana (oleation) by virtue of its
Doshotkleshana (vitiation of dosha) effects
separates toxins accumulated in the patient‟s
body by Nidanas (causes) like Viruddha ahara
(food ingestion either in inappropriate way or
quantity etc. and the separated Utklilshta
Doshas (vitiated humours) are eliminated by
Virechana (purgation). Virechana (purgation)
might have removed the toxins from the
cellular level, improving Jatharagni (Digestive
fire) and Dhatvagni (hormones and enzymes),
so that metabolism is normalized.
Probable mode of action of
Jalaukavacharana (bloodletting by Leech):
Vicharchika (one among 11 types of mild
skin diseases as per Ayurveda), is a type of
Kushtha (Skin diseases) having Tridosha
prakopa (vitiation of all the three doshas),
pradhana Raktadushti (vitiation of blood
dominantly) and Chirakari (chronic)
manifestation. Sushruta (the author of Susruta
Samhita) has given great emphasis to
Jalaukavacharana (bloodletting by Leech) in
the treatment of Raktapradoshaja Vyadhi
(Blood originated disease), Tridosha
Prakopajanya (vitiated all three body humours)
and Chirakari (chronic) diseases.
Jalaukavacharana (bloodletting by Leech) is
Total Effect of Therapy in Both Groups
0
30
40
10
30
60
30
00
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
Group-A Group-B
Complete Remission
Marked Improvement
Improvement
Unchanged
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 30–39
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better for the superficial blood (Avagadha
grathita Rakta). Vitiated Rakta (blood) may be
washed-out by application of Leeches after
slight scraping on the lesion of Kushtha (skin
disease). Thus; it is well proved that Jalauka
(leeches) gives better effect in Raktaja Roga
(Blood originated disease), or Kushtha (skin
disease) on the basis of classical references.
Jalauka (leech) sucks the impure blood only
with ideal example of Swan by Vagbhatta (the
author of Astanga Hridaya). Leeches when
applied to the skin, sucks the blood at
superficial level might be from capillaries or
extra-cellular so it may be more impure than
other body channels, Jalauka (leech) (Vridha
Vagbhatta, 4th
AD) can easily suck impure
blood due to superficial distribution of veins.
Leech application has counter irritant effect
on the lesion, which creates new cellular
division after removing dead cell layer, and
result in reduction of local Swelling and
Lichenification. Leech sucks blood from
restricted area. When leech applied in only
pathogenic area, then it can be said that leech
expelled blood from where the pathological
state is more. So ultimately blood of that area
comparatively more vitiated than other area.
Hence, it can be said that leeches give best
effect in Vicharchika (one among 11 types of
mild skin diseases as per Ayurveda) by
expelling the morbid, vitiated Doshas (three
basic constituent of body) and Dhatus (7 types
of body tissues). The effect of therapy is not
only by expelling the vitiated blood but also by
leech that emits some enzymes in the wound.
CONCLUSION
It can be observed from the table number-
10 and 11 that although Virechana has
provided significant relief in the symptoms of
Vicharchika yet, Jalaukavacharana
(bloodletting by leech) has provided relatively
better relief in most of the symptoms. Most of
the patients had reported in the chronic stage of
Vicharchika. Negligence in early stage of
eczema is common phenomenon observed in
patients. Most of the affected sites for
Vicharchika are lower feet, axilla and neck like
skin folds regions. Relapsing nature of
Vicharchika is most common, which suggest
that, long term intensive therapy is necessary
for eradication of the disease. Virechana
(purgation) provides comparative better result
in symptoms of Shushka Vicharchika (dry
eczema) like, Shotha (oedema), Shyavata
(secretion), Pidika (eruption), Raji (Thickening
of Skin) etc. Jalaukavacharana (bloodletting
by leech) is a choice of therapy for Sravi
Vicharchika (wet eczema) symptoms like,
Kandu (itching), Srava (secretion), Daha
(burning) etc. Markedly improved was obtained
in 40% of group-A, 10% of group-B. Improved
was found in 30% in group-A, 60% in group-B.
Only 30% of patients of group –A remain
unchanged. The effect of all the therapies viz.
Jalaukavacharana on the cardinal signs and
symptoms of the disease was remarkable;
however the Virechana therapy was provided
comparatively better relief.
ACKNOWLEDEMENT
We acknowledge gratitude to Prof. Vijay
Kaushik, Dean and superintendent of M.S.M.
Institute of Ayurveda & Hospital, Khanpur
Kalan for his extensive support in providing all
resources in the OPD & IPD of the hospital.
We express our gratitude to Dr. K.V.Singh,
H.O.D, M.S.M. Institute of Ayurveda &
Hospital, Khanpur Kalan for his inspiring spirit
and parental affection besides his subject
knowledge and direction that helped in
accomplishing this work. We owe our thanks to
our friends, hospital staffs, laboratory staffs,
library staffs of M.S.M. Institute of Ayurveda
and patients for their sincere support in this
clinical trial.
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 30–39
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
REFERENCES
Charak, (200 BC), Charak Chandrika Hindi
Byaksha, Tripathy Brahmananda,
Charak Sahmita, 4th
edition,
Chaukhamba Surabharati Prakasana,
1995, Varanasi, Vol-I & II, Sutra Sthan-
24; Chikitsa Sthan-7,
Dwivedi Acharya Mukundilal, Sharma
Tarachanda and Mishra Bhairava,
(2008) Ayurvediya Panchakarma
Chikitsa: Chaukhambha Sanskrit
Pratishthan, Delhi. PP-444–448
Kasture H. S., (2004), Ayurvediya
Panchakarma Vijnan:, 8th edition, Shri
Vaidyanath Ayurved Bhawan Limited,
PP.294–300
Shastri Laxmipati, (2004), Vidyotini Hindi
Commentary, Shastri Brahmasankar,
Yog Ratnakar, PP-501
Susruta, (2000 BC), Ayurveda Tatwa
Sandeepika Hindi Commentary,
Shastree Kaviraj Ambikadatta, Susruta
Sahmita, 11th
edition, Chaukhamba
Sanskrit Bhawan, 1997, Varanasi, Vol-
I, Nidan Sthana.- 5/5, PP -247.
Vagbhatta, (4th
AD), Vidyotini Bhasa
commentary, Gupt Kaviraj Atridev,
Astanga Hridaya, twelfth edition,
Chaukhamba Sanskrit Bhawan, 1997,
Varanasi, Nidan Sthana, 14/3,PP 271
Vriddha Vagbhata, (4th
AD), Soroj Hindi
commentary, Tripathy Ravidutta,
Astanga sangraha, Chaukhamba
Sanskrit pratisthana, 1996, Delhi,
Sutra sthan-35/4, PP.600
Source of Support: Nil Conflict of Interest: None Declared
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 40–51
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
ISSN 2277-4289 | www.gjrmi.com | International, Peer reviewed, Open access, Monthly Online Journal
A CLINICAL STUDY ON THE EFFECTIVENESS OF DM II HERBAL
COMPOUND (KALPIT) IN THE MANAGEMENT OF OBESE DIABETICS
Agarwal Vivek1*
1Assistant Professor, Department of Rog Nidan, MSM Institute of Ayurveda, BPS Women University
Khanpur kalan, Distt. Sonipat, Haryana, Pin – 131305
*Corresponding Author: E-mail- [email protected]; Phone – 09416608598
Received: 04/12/2012; Revised: 29/12/2012; Accepted: 02/01/2013
ABSTRACT
Diabetes is pandemic in both developed and developing countries. In 2000, there were an
estimated 175 million people with diabetes worldwide and by 2030 the projected estimate of diabetic
is 354 million. One out of 20 persons in new millennium will be diabetic. The study was planned to
assess the effect of DM II Herbal compound in Sthula Pramehi (Obese diabetics i.e. NIDDM) on the
basis of subjective and objective parameters. For the purpose of study ninety diagnosed Sthula
Pramehi are randomly divided into three groups, thirty of each, Group A Participants were given
modern medicine, Group B Participants were given modern medicine with DM II Herbal compound
and Group C Participants were given DM II Herbal compound alone. Results were noted after two
month drug trial. Group B showed more significant results than Group A and C.
KEY WORDS: DM II Herbal compound, Sthula Pramehi, Non Insulin Dependent Diabetes
Mellitus, Chala Sphiga Udara Stana (CSUS)
Research article
Cite this article:
Agarwal Vivek (2013), A CLINICAL STUDY ON THE EFFECTIVENESS OF DM II HERBAL
COMPOUND (KALPIT) IN THE MANAGEMENT OF OBESE DIABETICS, Global J Res. Med.
Plants & Indigen. Med., Volume 2(1): 40–51
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 40–51
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
INTRODUCTION
Today is the era of modernization and fast
life. Rapid urbanization and industrialization
have produced advancement of the social and
economic front in developing countries such as
India. As a result, this dramatic life style
changes lead to related diseases like NIDDM.
The transition from a traditional to modern life
style, consumption of diets rich in fat and
calories combined with a high level of mental
stress has compounded the problem further.
Now days, it is concluded that the group of
metabolic risk factors in one person which has
given a name Metabolic syndrome or
Syndrome X which usually includes
Abdominal obesity, Atherogenic dyslipidemia,
Hypertension, Diabetes mellitus. (Davidson,
2002). The predominant underlying risk factors
for the metabolic syndrome appear to be
abdominal obesity and insulin resistance. Other
associated factors are physical activity, ageing,
hormonal imbalance, atherogenic diet and
insulin resistance which is an essential cause of
the metabolic syndrome, predisposes to
hyperglycemia and type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Individuals who are insulin resistant may not be
clinically obese, but they commonly have an
abnormal fat distribution that is characterized
by predominant upper body fat. Upper body
obesity can occur either intraperitoneally
(visceral fat) or subcutaneously, both of them
are correlated strongly with insulin resistance
and the metabolic syndrome.
In present era, Sthaulyata is a burning
problem which is a byproduct of urbanization.
It is not only the root cause of major aliments
like diabetes, heart problems, hypertension etc
but it has also significant life running effect on
the patient’s quality of life. The quality of life
measurements are increasingly being used in
assessing the treatment outcomes in these
conditions as they measure the missing
dimensions of healthcare. Diabetes is a
metabolic illness requiring regular medications
and ability on the part of patient to monitor and
modify diets and lifestyle (Niranjan Y et al.,
2012). The etiological factors mentioned in
context to Sthaulya and Prameha are almost the
same, as both the diseases are considered as
santarpanajanya-vyadhi in Ayurveda i.e. the
disease caused by indulgence of madhurya
(sweetness), snigdha (unctuousness), sita
(coldness), guru (heaviness), picchila ahara
(sliminess), meat of aquatic animals and
decreased physical activities like divasvapna
(sleep during day time), avyayama (lack of
exercise) etc. (Charaka, 200 BC). According to
the pathogenesis of these diseases, kapha plays
important role which is aggravated first, then in
turn aggravates the medo-dhatu (lipid) as their
properties are similar in some extent. Now the
aggravated or the dushit medo-dhatu (abnormal
lipid) works as a dosha, causing atiSthaulya
and Prameha (Charaka, 200 BC). As per
modern medical science, obesity is associated
with carbohydrate intolerance, insulin
resistance and hyper-insulinism, which are the
features of Non-insulin dependent diabetes
mellitus (Harsh Mohan, 2000). Hence a study
was planned to assess the effect of DM II
Herbal compound in Sthula Pramehi (Obese
diabetics i.e. NIDDM) on the basis of
subjective and objective parameters.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
(1) Selection of Participants -
Participants for therapeutic drug trial were
selected from the OPD and IPD of the MSM
Institute of Ayurveda and Hospital, khanpur
kalan Distt. Sonipat (Haryana) after screening
as per Ayurvedic and Modern criteria for
Sthula Pramehi. Selection had been carried out
according to relevant history, sign, symptoms
and Laboratory investigations including Body
Mass Index for Sthula persons & the study
carried out as per Institutional Ethical
Committee clearance Reg.No.RAU/AK/Ph.D
/184/08-09.
(a) Inclusion criteria
Participants in the age group between
35 to 65 years irrespective of either sex.
Diagnosed cases of NIDDM (as per
subjective and objective parameters)
with BMI > 25.
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(b) Exclusion criteria
Participants with major complications
and requirement of emergency
treatment.
Participants taking drugs like
corticosteroids, tricyclic antidepressant,
cycloheptadine which leads to weight
gain.
IDDM Cases.
Pregnant women
(c) Diagnostic criteria
All the Participants were diagnosed on the
basis of following criteria –
i) Clinical signs and symptoms (Table 1)
ii) Body Mass Index
iii) Hip and waist circumference
iv) Investigations-
Hematological (Routine Test) - TLC, DLC,
ESR, Hb%
Bio-chemistry - FBS, PPBS, Blood Urea,
Lipid Profile
Urine examination - FUS, PMUS, Albumin,
pH, Specific gravity etc.
Table No. 1 -Symptoms observed in Participants for diagnosis
S.No. Symptoms Explanation
1 Chala, sphiga, udara and stana Show movement of buttocks, abdomen and
breast during activity
2 Ayathopachaya Disproportionate body
3 Prabhoot mootrata Polyurea
4 Aavil mootrata Turbidity in Urine
5 Pipasadhikya Polydipsea
6 Kshudhadhikya Polyphagia
7 Swedatipravritti Excessive sweating
8 Daurbalya Weakness
9 Aalasya Lassitude
10 Atinidra Excessive sleep
11 Vibandh Constipation
12 Malavritta Jihwa Coated tongue
13 Kar-paada daha Burning sensation in hand and foot
14 Mukhmadhurya Sweetness of mouth
15 Tandra Drowsiness
16 Krichvyavyata Sexual dysfunction
17 Sandhi shula Joint pain
Scoring Criteria
Feature Score
No Symptom 0
Mild Symptom 1
Moderate Symptom 2
Severe Symptom 3
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(2) General Observations
a) Demographic Profile: The Participants
registered under the present trial were closely
interviewed according to the Performa of study.
In incidence of their age, sex, socio-economic
status, marital status, religion, habitat, dietary
habits, nature of job and other relevant
information’s were worked out.
b) Physical Measurement: All the
measurement was made with the Participants in
empty stomach i.e. before, during and after the
treatment.
(i) Height (ii) Weight
(iii) Body Mass Index
(iv) Waist Circumference
It was measured in inches, when the
Participants were in standing position, using a
standard tape measure, over the unclothed
abdomen of the patient at the midpoint between
the costal margin and the iliac crest.
(v) Hip Circumference
It was measured to the nearest inches with
the patient standing, using a standard tape
measure at the level of the greater trochanters.
Note – Normal W/H ratio should be 0.8 in
female and 1.0 in males.
c). Determination of Prakriti
(3) Clinical Observations
Selection of drugs
For the present study, selection of the drug
combination DM II Herbal compound which
was on the basis of various textual references.
The drugs in this compound are easily available
and having the high degree of clinical
significance in Sthula Pramehi.
Ingredients of DM II Herbal compound are
as follows (Sharma P V, 2001)
Chirabilwa bark (Holoptelea integrifolia),
Daruharidra kanda (Berberis aristata),
Aamrasthi majja (Mangifera indica), Jambu
seeds (Syzygium cumini), Karvellaka fruit
(Momordica charantia), Nimba (Azadirachta
indica), Bilwa leaves (Aegle marmelos),
Meshshringi leaves (Gymnema sylvestre),
Haridra kanda (Curcuma longa), Danamethi
seeds (Trigonella foenum-graecum), Triphala
dried fruits (Phyllanthus emblica, Terminalia
bellarica, Terminalia chebula).
Preparation of drug
Above mentioned all the eleven ingredients
are taken in equal quantity and prepared in the
form of churna (fine powder) in the pharmacy
of MSM Institute of Ayurveda, Khanpur kalan
(Sonepat, Haryana).
Administration of drug
Ninety clinically diagnosed Sthula Pramehi
(obese diabetic) Participants were divided into
three groups –
Group A – 30 Participants were recommended
allopathic medicine before 15 minutes of meal
for two month as a control group. (Under
supervision of allopathic physician)
Group B - 30 Participants were recommended
allopathic medicine along with DM II Herbal
compound 5 gm twice a day with Luke warm
water before 15 minutes of meal for two month.
Group C - 30 Participants were recommended
DM II Herbal compound 5gm twice a day with
Luke warm water before 15 minutes of meal
for two month.
Follow up study
Participants were followed up after 15 days
up to two month.
Laboratory investigations were repeated
after the duration of trail.
Improvement and other effects were noted.
Note- Not any side effect and toxic effects of
DM II Herbal compound was reported by any
individual during trial.
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OBSERVATIONS AND RESULTS
Table No. 2 – Distribution based on Family History of Obese Diabetics Participants
S.N
o.
Family
History
Number of Participants Total %
Group-A Group-B Group-C
1. Present 20 23 21 64 71.11
2. Absent 10 07 09 26 28.88
Total 30 30 30 90 100
Table No. 3 – Distribution based on the BMI of Participants
S.No. BMI
(In Kg/m2)
Number of Participants Total %
Group-A Group-B Group-C
1. 18.5–24.9 - - - - -
2. 25–29.9 23 22 25 70 77.77
3. 30–34.9 07 08 05 20 22.22
4. > 35 - - - - -
Total 30 30 30 90 100
Table No. 4 – Improvement in Symptoms in Group A
Symptoms N Mean Dif. Improvement% SD SE t P
BT AT
CSUS 28 1.79 1.21 0.57 32.00 0.50 0.10 6.00 <0.001
Ayathopachaya 24 1.88 1.29 0.58 31.11 0.50 0.10 5.67 <0.001
Prabhoot mootrata 30 2.27 1.10 1.17 51.47 0.70 0.13 9.14 <0.001
Aavil mootrata 26 1.50 0.73 0.77 51.28 0.51 0.10 7.62 <0.001
Pipasadhikya 28 1.75 0.86 0.89 51.02 0.63 0.12 7.51 <0.001
Kshudhadhikya 30 1.77 1.13 0.63 35.85 0.72 0.13 4.83 <0.001
Swedatipravritti 29 1.79 0.97 0.83 46.15 0.66 0.12 6.77 <0.001
Daurbalya 30 1.77 1.03 0.73 41.51 0.78 0.14 5.12 <0.001
Aalasya 24 1.92 1.04 0.88 45.65 0.74 0.15 5.79 <0.001
Ati nidra 24 1.25 0.83 0.42 33.33 0.58 0.12 3.50 <0.001
Vibandh 23 1.52 0.83 0.70 45.71 0.56 0.12 5.97 <0.001
Malavritta Jihwa 24 1.63 0.92 0.71 43.59 0.62 0.13 5.56 <0.001
Karpada daha 26 1.77 0.88 0.88 50.00 0.52 0.10 8.74 <0.001
Mukh Madhurya 23 1.39 0.61 0.78 56.25 0.60 0.13 6.26 <0.001
Tandra 26 1.35 0.73 0.62 45.71 0.57 0.11 5.49 <0.001
Krichvyavayata 26 1.65 1.04 0.62 37.21 0.50 0.10 6.32 <0.001
Shula 25 1.68 1.12 0.56 33.33 0.51 0.10 5.53 <0.001
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Table No. 5 – Improvement in Symptoms in Group B
Symptoms N Mean Dif.
Impro
vemen
t%
SD SE t P
BT AT
CSUS 30 2.07 1.23 0.83 40.32 0.46 0.08 9.90 <0.001
Ayathopachaya 25 2.08 1.28 0.80 38.46 0.50 0.10 8.00 <0.001
Prabhoot mootrata 30 2.33 0.80 1.53 65.71 0.63 0.11 13.36 <0.001
Aavil mootrata 27 1.44 0.89 0.56 38.46 0.51 0.10 5.70 <0.001
Pipasadhikya 28 1.75 0.46 1.29 73.47 0.81 0.15 8.40 <0.001
Kshudhadhikya 29 1.97 0.86 1.10 56.14 0.86 0.16 6.91 <0.001
Swedatipravritt 29 2.14 0.69 1.45 67.74 0.91 0.17 8.57 <0.001
Daurbalya 28 2.04 0.82 1.21 59.65 0.74 0.14 8.70 <0.001
Aalasya 26 2.15 1.27 0.88 41.07 1.21 0.24 3.73 <0.001
Ati nidra 30 1.77 0.70 1.07 60.38 0.83 0.15 7.06 <0.001
Vibandh 26 1.81 0.58 1.23 68.09 0.76 0.15 8.21 <0.001
Malavritta Jihwa 27 1.89 0.85 1.04 54.90 0.71 0.14 7.63 <0.001
Karpada daha 26 1.81 0.77 1.04 57.45 0.92 0.18 5.78 <0.001
Mukh Madhurya 25 1.56 0.76 0.80 51.28 0.76 0.15 5.24 <0.001
Tandra 27 1.93 1.00 0.93 48.08 0.87 0.17 5.51 <0.001
Krichvyavayata 24 1.88 1.17 0.71 37.78 0.62 0.13 5.56 <0.001
Shula 27 1.85 0.93 0.93 50.00 0.62 0.12 7.82 <0.001
Table No. 6 – Improvement in Symptoms in Group C
Symptoms N Mean Dif. Impro
vemen
t%
SD SE t P
BT AT
CSUS 27 1.93 1.44 0.48 25.00 0.51 0.10 4.91 <0.001
Ayathopachaya 23 2.00 1.22 0.78 39.13 0.52 0.11 7.24 <0.001
Prabhoot mootrata 29 1.93 0.83 1.10 57.14 0.67 0.13 8.83 <0.001
Aavil mootrata 26 1.42 0.85 0.58 40.54 0.50 0.10 5.84 <0.001
Pipasadhikya 28 1.36 0.68 0.68 50.00 0.55 0.10 6.55 <0.001
Kshudhadhikya 29 2.07 1.28 0.79 38.33 0.77 0.14 5.52 <0.001
Swedatipravritt 28 1.71 0.71 1.00 58.33 0.67 0.13 7.94 <0.001
Daurbalya 25 2.32 1.08 1.24 53.45 0.72 0.14 8.57 <0.001
Aalasya 26 1.77 1.04 0.73 41.30 0.60 0.12 6.17 <0.001
Ati nidra 27 1.67 0.93 0.74 44.44 0.71 0.14 5.40 <0.001
Vibandh 26 1.69 0.81 0.88 52.27 0.59 0.12 7.67 <0.001
Malavritta Jihwa 27 1.67 0.81 0.85 51.11 0.66 0.13 6.68 <0.001
Karpada daha 27 1.85 0.81 1.04 56.00 0.85 0.16 6.31 <0.001
Mukh Madhurya 27 1.56 0.59 0.96 61.90 0.81 0.16 6.19 <0.001
Tandra 27 1.56 0.93 0.63 40.48 0.56 0.11 5.79 <0.001
Krichvyavayata 23 1.61 1.04 0.57 35.14 0.51 0.11 5.35 <0.001
Shula 28 1.82 1.21 0.61 33.33 0.57 0.11 5.67 <0.001
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Table No. 7 - Improvement in Objective Parameters in Group A
Objective
Parameters
N Mean Dif. % SD SE t P
BT AT
Waist Circum. 30 35.53 34.50 1.03 2.91 0.89 0.16 6.36 <0.001
Hip Circum. 30 37.87 36.33 1.53 4.05 0.82 0.15 10.25 <0.001
Weight 30 72.13 70.20 1.93 2.68 1.53 0.28 6.92 <0.001
BMI 30 28.39 27.72 0.68 2.38 0.39 0.07 9.57 <0.001
Table No. 8 - Improvement in Objective Parameters in Group B
Objective
Parameters
N Mean Dif. % SD SE t P
BT AT
Waist Circum. 30 36.40 33.80 2.60 7.14 1.00 0.18 14.19 <0.001
Hip Circum. 30 37.27 34.93 2.33 6.26 1.09 0.20 11.69 <0.001
Weight 30 73.57 70.20 3.37 4.58 1.19 0.22 15.51 <0.001
BMI 30 29.07 27.64 1.43 4.92 0.80 0.15 9.80 <0.001
Table No. 9 - Improvement in Objective Parameters in Group C
Objective
Parameters
N Mean Dif. % SD SE t P
BT AT
Waist Circum. 30 36.43 34.33 2.10 5.76 1.03 0.19 11.18 <0.001
Hip Circum. 30 37.90 35.70 2.20 5.80 1.06 0.19 11.33 <0.001
Weight 30 72.67 70.20 2.47 3.39 1.17 0.21 11.58 <0.001
BMI 30 28.43 27.44 0.99 3.48 0.39 0.07 13.79 <0.001
Table No. 10 – Improvement of Investigations in Group A
Investigation N Mean
B.T.
Mean
A.T.
Mean
Diff.
% S.D. S.E. ‘t’
Value
‘p’
Value
Hb% 30 11.66 12.11 0.44 3.80 0.46 0.08 5.29 <0.001
TLC 30 7243.50 7401.67 158.17 2.18 483.62 88.30 1.79 >0.01
Polymorph 30
58.97 59.47 0.50 0.85 2.96 0.54 0.93 >0.01
Lymphocytes 35.23 35.17 0.07 0.19 4.52 0.82 0.08 >0.01
ESR 30 17.50 12.73 4.77 27.24 5.41 0.99 4.83 <0.001
Fasting Blood Sugar 30 174.23 141.03 33.20 19.05 19.26 3.52 9.44 <0.001
Post Prandial Blood Sugar 30 259.77 194.87 64.90 24.98 24.86 4.54 14.30 <0.001
Blood Urea 30 28.17 27.00 1.17 4.14 5.54 1.01 1.15 >0.01
S.Cholesterol 30 214.74 201.30 13.44 6.26 19.81 3.62 3.72 <0.01
S.Triglyceride 30 123.31 127.40 4.09 3.32 18.56 3.39 1.21 >0.01
H.D.L. 30 57.64 59.17 1.53 2.65 6.28 1.15 1.33 >0.01
L.D.L. 30 131.45 116.65 14.79 11.25 19.21 3.51 4.22 <0.001
V.L.D.L. 30 24.81 25.48 0.67 2.71 3.65 0.67 1.01 >0.01
Fasting Urine Sugar 30 1.75 0.13 1.63 92.86 0.81 0.20 8.06 <0.001
Post Meal Urine Sugar 30 3.00 0.93 2.07 68.97 0.70 0.13 15.83 <0.001
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Table No. 11 – Improvement of Investigations in Group B
Investigation N Mean
B.T.
Mean
A.T.
Mean
Diff.
% S.D. S.E. ‘t’
Value
‘p’
Value
Hb% 30 12.04 12.37 0.32 2.68 0.41 0.08 4.27 <0.001
TLC 30 7317.83 7255.00 62.83 0.86 379.12 69.22 0.91 >0.01
Polymorph 30
57.83 58.73 0.90 1.56 3.16 0.58 1.56 >0.01
Lymphocytes 36.47 35.20 1.27 3.47 3.32 0.61 2.09 <0.01
ESR 30 12.97 9.23 3.73 28.79 4.38 0.80 4.67 <0.001
Fasting Blood Sugar 30 173.57 123.03 50.53 29.11 20.18 3.68 13.72 <0.001
Post Prandial Blood Sugar 30 255.50 171.30 84.20 32.95 25.85 4.72 17.84 <0.001
Blood Urea 30 28.90 28.20 0.70 2.42 3.87 0.71 0.99 >0.01
S. Cholesterol 30 204.24 164.60 39.64 19.41 18.19 3.32 11.93 <0.001
S. Triglyceride 30 134.57 104.17 30.40 22.59 20.97 3.83 7.94 <0.001
High Density Lipoprotein 30 56.95 58.77 1.81 3.18 4.44 0.81 2.24 <0.01
Low Density Lipoprotein 30 120.46 84.36 36.10 29.97 18.15 3.31 10.89 <0.001
Very Low Density Lipo. 30 26.88 21.43 5.44 20.25 3.54 0.65 8.43 <0.001
Fasting Urine Sugar 30 1.80 0.07 1.73 96.30 0.70 0.18 9.54 <0.001
Post Meal Urine Sugar 30 2.90 0.27 2.63 90.80 0.81 0.15 17.83 <0.001
Table No. 12 – Improvement of Investigations in Group C
In Investigation N Mean
B.T.
Mean
A.T.
Mean
Diff.
% S.D. S.E. ‘t’
Value
‘p’
Value
Hb% 30 11.64 11.89 0.26 2.21 0.43 0.08 3.24 <0.01
TLC 30 7364.67 7108.33 256.33 3.48 742.50 135.56 1.89 >0.01
Polymorph 30
57.20 58.47 1.27 2.21 3.96 0.72 1.75 >0.01
Lymphocytes 38.27 35.43 2.83 7.40 5.98 1.09 2.60 <0.01
ESR 30 14.57 9.60 4.97 34.10 5.14 0.94 5.30 <0.001
Fasting Blood Sugar 30 157.50 128.03 29.47 18.71 12.32 2.25 13.10 <0.001
Post Prandial Blood Sugar 30 223.00 175.50 47.50 21.30 16.22 2.96 16.04 <0.001
Blood Urea 30 29.83 28.00 1.83 6.15 5.43 0.99 1.85 >0.01
S.Cholesterol 30 192.13 165.33 26.80 13.95 15.55 2.84 9.44 <0.001
S.Triglyceride 30 129.03 111.77 17.27 13.38 16.07 2.93 5.88 <0.001
High Density Lipoprotein 30 57.40 59.80 2.40 4.18 3.58 0.65 3.67 <0.01
Low Density Lipoprotein 30 109.45 83.41 26.04 23.79 15.01 2.74 9.50 <0.001
Very Low Density Lipo. 30 25.27 22.15 3.12 12.35 2.32 0.42 7.36 <0.001
Fasting Urine Sugar 9 1.33 0.11 1.22 91.67 0.44 0.15 8.32 <0.001
Post Meal Urine Sugar 30 2.20 0.43 1.77 80.30 0.73 0.13 13.29 <0.001
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Table No. 13 – Comparative improvement of Lipid Profile, Blood sugar & B.M.I.
S.No. Parameters Group A Group B Group C
1. Lipid Profile 5.238% 19.08% 13.53%
2. Blood Sugar 22.01% 31.03% 20%
3. B.M.I. 2.38% 4.92% 3.48%
Table No.14 – Comparative improvement in percentage of Sthula Pramehi
S.No. Observations Group A Group B Group C
1. Subjective
Improvement
43.01% 53.46% 45.75%
2. Objective Improvement 3.005% 5.725% 4.607%
3. Investigation
Improvement
19.31% 27.45% 23.94%
OVER ALL GRAPHIC ASSESSMENT
0.00%10.00%20.00%30.00%40.00%50.00%
Subjective Improvement
Objective Improvement
Investigation Improvement
Group A
Group A
0.00%20.00%40.00%60.00%
Subjective Improvement
Objective Improvement
Investigation Improvement
Group B
Group B
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DISCUSSION
Discussion on Conceptual Study
The Prameha is one among the eight
troublesome diseases described by Ayurveda.
So, it is difficult to treat with single drug
therapy i.e. why a combination of drug is
chosen for therapeutic study of Sthula Pramehi.
The sthula (obese) pramehi have more
strength as compared to krisha or asthenic
Participants. But generally asthenics are
preferred than obese, as the complications of
obesity are more than compared with
disadvantages of being asthenic. In Prameha
the obese Participants have good prognosis
than the asthenic Participants. (Charaka, 200
BC)
All varieties of Prameha, if not treated in
time, will ultimately become madhumeha
which is incurable. One more thing, which has
conceived through this study, is that the two
types of madhumeha i.e. dhatukshayah janya
and Aavaran janya can be called IDDM &
NIDDM respectively. (Sushruta, 2000BC)
Thus in the Ayurvedic texts the
interrelationship is described, inference is that
Prameha especially the madhumeha is strongly
related to the Sthaulya (obesity).
Discussion on Subjective Parameters
Group A
This group showed maximum percentage
subsidence in Mukhmadhurya (56.25%),
Prabhoot mootrata (51.47%), Aavil mootrata
(51.28%), Pipasadhikya (51.02%), Kar-pada
daha (50%), but over all study shows
symptomatic improvement in Group A was
43.01%.
Group B
This group showed maximum percentage
subsidence in Pipasadhikya (73.47%), Vibandh
(68.09%) Swedatipravritti (67.74%), Prabhoot
mootrata (65.71%), Atinidra (60.38%),
Daurbalya (59.65%), Kar-pada daha
(57.45%), but over all study shows
symptomatic improvement in Group B was
53.46%.
Group C
This group showed maximum percentage
subsidence in Mukhmadhurya (61.90%),
Swedatipravritti (58.33%), Prabhoot mootrata
(57.14%), Kar-pada daha (56%), Daurbalya
(53.45%), Vibandh (52.37%) but over all study
shows symptomatic improvement in Group C
was 45.75%.
Discussion on Objective Parameters
Group A
The percentage of change in Body weight
(2.68%), Body mass index (2.38%), Waist
circumference (4.65%) & in Hip circumference
(4.05%). Over all percentage of improvement is
3.005%.
Group B
The percentage of change in Body weight
(4.58%), Body mass index (4.92%), Waist
circumference (7.14%) & in Hip circumference
0.00%10.00%20.00%30.00%40.00%50.00%
Subjective Improvement
Objective Improvement
Investigation Improvement
Group C
Group C
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 40–51
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
(6.26%). Over all percentage of improvement is
5.725%.
Group C
The percentage of change in Body weight
(3.39%), Body mass index (3.48%), Waist
circumference (5.76%) & in Hip circumference
(5.80%). Over all percentage of improvement is
4.607%.
Discussion on Investigations
In Routine investigations, Haemoglobin and
ESR showed highly significant results but TLC
& DLC showed statistically insignificant
results in all the three groups.
Blood Urea in all the three groups showed
statistically insignificant results.
Group A
The reduction percentage of Blood sugar
&Urine sugar after the treatment was 22.01%
& 80.91%. Both parameters showed
statistically highly significant improvement.
The result percentage of Lipid Profile was
5.238%. In which cholesterol showed
significant results but other parameters do not
show such significant improvement.
Over all percentage of improvement is 19.31%.
Group B
The reduction percentage of Blood sugar,
Urine sugar and Lipid Profile after the
treatment was 31.03%, 93.55% & 19.08%. All
the above said parameters showed statistically
highly significant improvement except HDL
i.e. significant.
Over all percentage of improvement is 27.45%.
Group C
The reduction percentage of Blood sugar,
Urine sugar and Lipid Profile after the
treatment was 20.00%, 85.98% & 13.53%. All
the above said parameters showed statistically
highly significant improvement except HDL
i.e. significant.
Over all percentage of improvement is 23.94%.
CONCLUSION
Declaration of diabetes mellitus as an
epidemic by WHO signifies the gravity of
disease. More incidences can be avoided by
early education, early detection, and changing
life style, food habit & proper exercise. Sthula
Prameha (NIDDM) is personality damaging
disease; it affects not only somatic level but
also psychic level. As per observations &
Results, maximum number of Participants
having Rajasik dominant Manasik Prakriti.
Sthaulya & Prameha both are dusit medoja
vyadhi in which medodhatu acts an aetiological
factor. Sthaulya (Medoroga) is a Nanatmaja
kapha vyadhi and Prameha is predominant
kaphaj, their pathogenesis is almost same.
Prameha, Prameha pidika are considered as
complications of the Medoroga, which explains
their interrelationship. One should understand
the fact that in diabetes the main culprit is not
the sugar but fat. Diabetes mellitus is a
metabolic syndrome where each cell of the
body sufferers, characterized by chronic
hyperglycemia with disturbances of
carbohydrates. Fat & protein metabolism.
Resulting from improper insulin secretion.
From its complication it is clear that it is a ama
vyadhi thus the line of treatment should address
diabetes as a total and should include
shodhana, ama-pachana (Anti-oxidants),
rasayana along with specific anti-diabetics or
hypoglycemic. The present research work
showed that Medodusti in type-2 Diabetes
mellitus (NIDDM) is more common in higher
socio-economic society because of their
sedentary and comfortable life style. The
Traditional tribal combination used for
prevention of Diabetes mellitus had shown
almost full result so for. ‘DM II Herbal
Compound’ was very effective in reducing
physical examination parameters, Blood and
Urine sugar levels and some extent of Lipid
Profile. Participants who were dependent on
Ayurvedic drugs had better improvement than
those on modern medicines. Group B showed
better results of improvement than Group A
and Group C on the basis of clinical
parameters.
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 40–51
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I would like to thank Prof. Loknath Sharma,
Ex. HOD of Rog Nidan, National Institute of
Ayurveda Jaipur, for his valuable guidance,
precious support and priceless blessings
showered on each and every step, right from
the commencement.
REFERENCES
Charaka, (200 BC), Hindi commentary, Shastri
Kashinath and Chaturvedi Gorakhnath, Charaka Samhita, Chaukhambha Bharti
Academy, Reprint 1998,Varanasi, Vol.1
& II, Sutrasthana 21/17; Chikitsasthana
6/4-5
Davidson, (2002) Principles & Practice of
Medicine, Churchill Livingstone
Publication, 19th
Edition, New York.
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Jaypee Brothers, 4th
edition, New Delhi,
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(2012), Quality of life consequences in
diabetic polyneuropathy, Global J Res.
Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. 1(7): 295–
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Chaukhambha Bharti Academy, 2nd
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Source of Support: Nil Conflict of Interest: None Declared
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ISSN 2277-4289 | www.gjrmi.com | International, Peer reviewed, Open access, Monthly Online Journal
A COMPARATIVE CLINICAL EVALUATION OF THYROMAX POWDER
AGAINST THYROXINE SODIUM IN THE MANAGEMENT OF
HYPOTHYROIDISM
Ujjaliya Nitin1*, Krishnankutty S V
2, Remadevi R
3
1Assistant Prof., Dept. of Dravyaguna Vijnana, Shri Dhanwantry Ayurvedic College & Dabur Dhanwantry
Hospital, Chandigarh, India 2Head, Department of Internal medicine, Maulana Hospital, Perinthalmanna, Kerala, India
3Prof. & Head, Dept. of Dravyaguna Vijnana, V.P.S.V. Ayurveda College, Kottakkal, Kerala, India
*Corresponding Author: Email: [email protected]
Received: 06/12/2012; Revised: 01/01/2013; Accepted: 07/01/2013
ABSTRACT
The thyroid gland regulates metabolism of the body by virtue of its hormones. Insufficient levels
of thyroid hormone causes signs and symptoms such as slower metabolic rate, weight gain,
sleepiness, dry and cool skin, as well as others. This condition collectively can be called as
Hypothyroidism. Of the different types, Primary Hypothyroidism is the commonest which occurs
after destruction of thyroid follicles mainly because of autoimmunity. Hypothyroidism is most
common in women than men. According to a study, it affects 3.9% people with 9.4% subclinical
condition. The sole available treatment for this in conventional science is Hormone Replacement
Therapy which is not always free from side effects and has to be taken lifelong. This study was
aimed to search an option for Hypothyroidism in terms of herbs. Traditionally practiced drugs
Guducī Satvam (Tinospora cordifolia Miers.) and Āmalakī cūrnam (Phyllanthus emblica Linn.) was
taken in a combination named „Thyromax powder’ which was standardized before commencing with
clinical trial. A controlled clinical trial was planned with 20 newly diagnosed participants, which
were not exposed to any medicament, with Thyroxine sodium in control group and Thyromax
powder in study group for the duration of 3 month. Assessment was done on the basis of six
subjective parameters and thyroid function test. Statistically, study drug showed a positive
correlation on subjective parameters while control group showed significant result on T3 and T4
levels. Both the groups were found statistically insignificant on TSH level.
KEY WORDS: Thyromax powder, Hypothyroidism, Standardization, controlled clinical trial.
Research article
Cite this article:
Ujjaliya Nitin, Krishnankutty S V, Remadevi R (2013), A COMPARATIVE CLINICAL EVALUATION
OF THYROMAX POWDER AGAINST THYROXINE SODIUM IN THE MANAGEMENT OF
HYPOTHYROIDISM, Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med., Volume 2(1): 52–64
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 52–64
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
INTRODUCTION
Endocrinology concerns the synthesis,
secretion and action of hormones. Hormones
are chemical messengers which have diverse
molecular structures and are related to
endocrine glands thereby coordinate the
activities of different cells. Some endocrine
disorders are common, particularly those of the
thyroid gland. At present thyroid diseases form
the second most common endocrine disorder in
India next to Diabetes mellitus. (Sir Stanley
Davidson, Davidson Principles & Practice of
Medicine; 2006). According to the report of N.
Kochupilli, thyroid disorders (5.4%) are the
most common among all the endocrine diseases
in India (N. Kochupillai et al., 1986).
Unfortunately many people may have this
disease and even not realize it. According to a
study known as a “Colorado thyroid disease
prevalence study” there may be as 13 million
Americans with an undiagnosed thyroid
condition (Gay J Canaris et al., 2000). In the
state of Kerala, India, 9.4% people who suffer
from hypothyroidism are asymptomatic
(Unnikrishnan AG et al., 2011). Wickham
Survey suggested that there is a high possibility
of developing Hypothyroidism in the
population with raised TSH and thyroid
antibodies. In the after follow up study it was
demonstrated to be much accurate. It was
inferred that increasing values of serum TSH
above 2mU/l increases the probability of
developing hypothyroidism which was further
increased in the presence of anti-thyroid
antibodies (Vanderpump MP, 1995). According
to a study anti-thyroid antibodies were found in
89.6% of the women between 15–35 years of
age and the overall prevalence of classical
Hypothyroidism was found to be 10 times more
than the men (K.P. Paulose, 2011). This made
the medical society to consider it with a higher
importance, as it may result in severe
complications. The possibility of incidence of
the disease also increases with a higher rate in
old age.
In Hypothyroidism, body function
decreases and this leads to a slow heart rate, an
increase in cholesterol level, mild anemia,
pervasive fatigue, depression, low body
temperature, cold intolerance, coarsening of
skin, muscles and joint aches, constipation,
weight gain, slow hair growth, loss of libido,
infertility, increased risk of miscarriage and
irregular menstrual cycle in women etc. In the
most common case of Hypothyroidism, namely
Primary Hypothyroidism resulting from an
intrinsic disorder of thyroid gland, serum T3
and T4 is low and TSH elevated also called as
classical Hypothyroidism, resulting above signs
and symptoms. (Sir Stanley Davidson,
Davidson Principles & Practice of Medicine;
2006).
According to the signs and symptoms, it is
concluded that Hypothyroidism is a resultant of
Vāta-kapha-medo vikrti and
Dhātvāgnimāndhya (Alsa mariyam
kalathancheri, 2008 and Chanchal Gupta,
2003). Guducī and Āmalakī are known for
Rasāyana property and have action on
Dhātvāgni specially Rasa and Rakta. Both the
drugs have been proven as immunomodulators
and anti-oxidant effects. (Dikshit V et al., 2003
and Shukla V et al., 2009). Prevalence of
autoimmune Hypothyroidism is much higher
(K.P. Paulose, 2001). Considering rejuvenative
effect of these herbs, they may rejuvenate
destroyed follicles of thyroid gland which are
responsible for production of thyroid
hormones; of course it is questionable and
needs further research. These are proved drugs
for many diseases and found non toxic. These
two drugs are not found to have any drug
interactions. (Database on Medicinal Plants
used in Ayurveda, 2005). Guducī Satvam
(extract of Tinospora cordifolia Miers.) along
with Āmalakī cūrnam (powder of fruit of
Phyllanthus emblica Linn.) is used by the
traditional vaidyas for Hypothyroidism in
Madhya Pradesh and found effective.
In modern medicine hormone supplement is
the only management for this disease. Though
it is thought to be a successful therapy but a
long term hormone therapy is not always free
from complications as well as side effects.
Most often it is needed to continue throughout
the life in adjusted doses.
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 52–64
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This study was an effort to evaluate the
effect of these two drugs in a combination
which is named as “Thyromax powder” on the
clinical symptoms and T3, T4 and TSH levels
of Hypothyroidism.
MATERIALS AND METHOD
Study design
The study design was a controlled clinical
trial. Randomization was not done due to two
different settings. Newly diagnosed participants
were selected as per the inclusion and exclusion
criteria. The control selected here was not a
concurrent control. The control group was
selected from an accessible population at
Maulana Hospital, Perinthalmanna, Kerala,
India. A detailed clinical examination was done
before and after the study using a prepared case
record form. Analysis of both the treatments
was done by evaluating subjective and
objective parameters.
Sample collection and preparation of study
drug
The fresh Stem of Tinospora cordifolia
were collected from nearby areas of Kottakkal,
Kerala, India. The stem cuttings were properly
identified in the department using external
morphological and histological characters.
Satvam was prepared as per the procedure
given in the text. (Yogaratnākara Rājayaksamā
Cikitsā; 328, Verse no. 1-11/2)
The fresh fruit of Phyllanthus emblica of
similar size were bought from market. The
fruits were identified in the department and
well dried in shade. Powder was prepared in the
size of 40–80 microns. (The Ayurvedic
Pharmacopoeia of India, 2001)
Physicochemical Standardization of
Thyromax powder
In the present study the combination of
Satvam of Tinospora cordifolia and fine
powder of dried fruits of Phyllanthus emblica
in the ratio of 1:3; given the name Thyromax
powder were subjected to preliminary
physicochemical screening for the
standardization of drug and extraction of plant
constituents.
(Quality Standards of Indian
medicinal Plants, and The Ayurvedic
Pharmacopoeia of India, 2001). (Table no. 2 -
4)
Phytochemical analysis
Quantification of characteristic compounds
The extracts obtained were subjected to
qualitative tests for the identification of various
plant constituents. (Quality Standards of Indian
medicinal Plants, 2003 and The Ayurvedic
Pharmacopoeia of India, 2001). (Table no. 5 -
7)
Thin Layer Chromatography & HPTLC
Selection of chromatographic layer
Pre-coated TLC silica gel 60 F254 (E.
Merck) plates on aluminum sheet were used for
chromatographic profile for individual drugs
and for Thyromax powder. TLC of all
successive solvent extractives of Thyromax
powder was prepared. While HPTLC
fingerprinting of methanolic extract of Guducī
Satvam, Āmalakī cūrnam and Thyromax
powder was prepared.
Selection of mobile phase for TLC
a] For Thyromax powder
Before the application of the samples to the
plates, an appropriate solvent system was
selected. The solvent system was chosen by the
trial and error method. The solvent systems
used for the TLC analysis were different for
different successive solvent extractives.
For Petroleum ether extract – n-hexane :
ethyl acetate : formic acid (10:2:0.2)
For Cyclohexane extractive – Toluene :
ethyl acetate : formic acid (8:2:0.2 )
For Acetone & Ethanol extract –
Toluene : ethyl acetate : formic acid
(5:5:1)
Selection of mobile phase for HPTLC
a] For Guducī Satvam
For methanolic extract – toluene : ethyl
acetate : formic acid (7:5:1)
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b] For Āmalakī cūrnam
For methanolic extract – toluene : ethyl
acetate : formic acid (7:5:1)
c] For Thyromax powder
For methanolic extract – toluene : ethyl
acetate : formic acid (7:5:1)
Application of sample
For the application of sample CAMAG
Automatic TLC sampler IV were used and the
concentration of sample extractives were
between 0.2 to 0.6 micro liters.
Pre-conditioning
Saturated chamber by lining with filter
paper for 30 minutes was prepared prior to
development for getting better Rf values. For
this CAMAG ADC-2 Automatic development
chamber was used.
Chromatographic development and drying
After development, the plates were taken
out and mobile phase was completely removed
from the plate by drying in vacuum desiccators.
Detection and visualization
Detection under UV light is the first choice
so plates were visualized in CAMAG TLC
Visualizer and photographs were taken in UV
254 and 365 nm. wavelength. Since very dim
spots were obtained in visible light, the TLC
plates were then sprayed with Anasaldehyde
sulphuric acid and dried in hot air oven at
110oC. The colors of the spots were recorded
and their positions were marked. The distance
travelled by each band was measured and
respective Rf values were calculated.
TLC analysis of Thyromax powder
For TLC study of Thyromax powder,
Petroleum ether, Cyclohexane, Acetone and
Ethanol extractives were spotted in the solvent
system given in the literature of TLC under
heading selection of solvent system. Eluents
were different for all extractives (common for
Acetone and Ethanol) hence Rf values, TLC
photographs are given separate.
HPTLC analysis
HPTLC profile was prepared for Guducī
Satvam, Āmalakī cūrnam and for the
combination Thyromax powder separately. The
mobile phase and extracts were different for
samples and has been mentioned earlier. For
Methanolic extract of Guducī Satvam and
Āmalakī cūrnam table of Rf value, TLC plate
photos and HPTLC over view and area graphs
are given separately.
Clinical study
In the present study randomization was not
done hence comparison of demographic details
and base line values of both the groups were
done. Comparison of response to the treatment
within both the groups was done. Total 20
participants were registered for the present
study, each 10 in study and control group. All
participants received full course of treatment
and completed their course successfully
without any interruption, hence there were no
dropouts in the study.
Data outcome were tabulated; mean
deviation, standard deviation and percentage
between the assessments were calculated.
Student „t‟ test was applied to find out level of
significance for all the parameters with in the
treatment and control group. The data were
statistically analyzed before and after
intervention.
RESULTS
Organoleptic characters
Detailed in (Table 1)
Powder microscopy Guducī satvam
Starch grains of Guducī showed deep blue
color when mounted with Iodine solution.
Every particle of Satvam was separated from
each other. The shapes of Satvam particle was
not similar and varies in size from other
particles. Starch grains of Guducī were
approximately 5.5–11.20µ in diameter and 6–
11.28µ in length. (Fig. no. 1&2).
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Powder microscopy of Āmalakī cūrnam
Powder showed hexagonal, thick, straight-
walled epidermal cells in surface view
embedded with small prismatic crystals of
silica; isolated or groups of thin-walled pitted
stone cells; fragments of thick walled fibers and
sclereids; fragments of pitted vessels, tracheids
and parenchyma, crystals of silica and simple
oval to spherical starch grains scattered as such
or embedded in the parenchymatous cells of the
mesocarp. (Fig.no.3-6) (The Ayurvedic
Pharmacopoeia of India).
Table 1. Organoleptic Characters
No. Characters Characteristics of Satvam Characteristics of Āmalakī cūrnam
1 Touch Fine and Smooth Rough
2 Color White Light grey
3 Taste Sweet Bitter, Sour and Sweet astringent
4 Odor Odorless Odorless
5 Consistency Fine powder Fine powder
Fig. 1–2 Powder Microscopy of Guducī Satvam
Fig. 3–6 Powder Microscopy of Āmalakī Cūrnam
Table 2. Physicochemical standards of Thyromax powder
Sr. No. Experiments Percentage
1. Total ash 3.05%
2. Water insoluble ash 2.23%
3. Acid insoluble ash 1.47%
4. Moisture content 11%
5. Volatile oil content 01%
6. Sugar content
a. Total Sugar 13.1%
b. Reducing sugar 7.23%
7. Fibre content 3.0%
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Table 3. Percentage of water soluble and alcohol soluble extractives
No. Name of extract Percentage of extract Color / Consistency
1. Hot water soluble 80.75% Blackish brown / Dry
2. Cold alcohol soluble 27.40% Dark brown / Oily
3. Hot alcohol soluble 50.00% Dark brown / Oily
Table 4. Successive solvent extractives
No. Experiments Percentage Color /Consistency
1. Petroleum ether 1.63 % Light yellow / Oily
2. Cyclohexane 0.80 % Lemon yellow/Oily
3. Acetone 12.0 % Dark brown / Oily
4. Ethanol 11.0 % Dark brown / Oily
Table 5. Qualitative Phytochemical analysis of the extractives
Solvent Steroid Alkaloids by Phenol Flavonoids Tannins
Mayer’s DDR
Petroleum ether + – + – – +
Cyclohexane – + + – – +
Acetone + – + + + +
Ethanol + – + + + +
Water + – – + + +
Cold alcohol + – + + + +
Hot alcohol + – + + + +
Table 6. Rf values of different spots of Thyromax powder
Petroleum ether
extract
Cyclohexane
extract
Acetone extract Ethanol extract
7 Spots 5 Spots 3 Spots 7 Spots
Colour of
Spot Rf Colour
of Spot
Rf Colour of
Spot
Rf Colour of Spot Rf
Violet 0.24 Purple 0.40 Brown 0.12 Pale brown 0.07
Violet 0.31 Purple 0.48 Brown 0.34 Pale brown 0.13
Violet 0.36 Purple 0.66 Light
violet
0.46 Pale brown 0.17
Violet 0.40 Violet 0.78 - - Pale brown 0.24
Pale pink 0.61 Violet 0.88 - - Brown 0.35
Violet 0.68 - - - - Light green 0.41
Pale
Violet
0.80 - - - - Light violet 0.49
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TLC of Thyromax powder (Fig. no. 7-18)
Fig. no. 7- 9: TLC plate of Petroleum ether extract of Thyromax powder
Fig. no. 10- 12: TLC plate of Cyclohexane extract of Thyromax powder
7: 254 nm 8: Derivatized plate. 9: 366 nm. 10: 254 nm. 11: Derivatized plate. 12: 366 nm.
Fig. no. 13- 15: TLC plates of Acetone extract of Thyromax powder
Fig. no. 16- 18: TLC plates of Ethanolic extracts of Thyromax powder
13: 254 nm 14: Derivatized plate. 15: 366 nm. 16: 254 nm. 17: Derivatized plate. 18: 366 nm.
Table 7. Rf value details of Methanolic extract of Guducī Satvam, Āmalakī cūrnam and
Thyromax powder.
Guducī Satvam Āmalakī cūrnam Thyromax powder
Spots Spots Spots
Color Rf Color Rf Color Rf
Light orange 0.80 Blue 0.18 Dark blue 0.18
Light orange 0.40 Blue 0.60
Light violet 0.70 Pink 0.70
Pink 0.80
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TLC of Āmalakī curnam and Guducī satvam (Fig. no. 19-23)
Fig. no. 19- 21: TLC plates of Methanolic extract
Fig. no. 22- 23: TLC plates of Methanolic extract of Thyromax powder.
19: Āmalakī at 254nm 20: Āmalakī at 366nm 21: Guducī at 366nm. 22: 254 nm 23: 366nm
HPTLC Over view graphs of study drugs (Fig. no. 24-31)
Fig. no. 24: Over view graph of Methanolic extract of Āmalakī at 254nm
Fig. no. 25: Area graph of Methanolic extract of Āmalakī at 254 nm.
Fig. no. 26: Over view graph of Methanolic extract of Guducī Satvam at 254 nm
Fig. no. 27: Area graph of Methanolic extract of Guducī Satvam at 254 nm
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 52–64
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Fig. no. 28: Over view graph of Methanolic extract of Thyromax powder at 254 nm
Fig. no. 29: Area graph of Methanolic extract of Thyromax powder at 254 nm
Fig. no. 30: Over view graph of Methanolic extract of Thyromax powder at 366 nm
Fig. no. 31: Area graph of Methanolic extract of Thyromax powder at 366 nm
Data related to response to the treatment
Graph 1. Effect of the treatment on weight gain Graph 2. Effect of the treatment on excessive sleep
00.20.40.60.8
11.21.4
BT AT
1.2
0.3
1.3 1.2
Effect of the treatment on weight
gain
Study
Control
0
0.5
1
1.5
2
2.5
BT AT
2.2
0.2
1.91.6
Effect of the treatment on
excessive sleep
Study
Control
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Graph 3. Effect of the treatment on muscle cramp Graph 4. Effect of the treatment on edema
Graph 5. Effect of the treatment on dry skin Graph 6. Effect of the treatment on constipation
Graph 7. Effect of the treatment on T3 parameter Graph 8. Effect of the treatment on T4 parameter
0
1
2
3
BT AT
2.2
0.2
2.0 1.7
Effect of the treatment on muscle
cramp
Study
Control
0
0.5
1
1.5
2
BT AT
1.8
0.4
1.31.1
Effect of the treatment on
edema
Study
Control
00.20.40.60.8
11.21.41.61.8
2
BT AT
2.0
0.6
1.5 1.4
Effect of the treatment on dry
skin
Study
Control
0
0.5
1
1.5
2
2.5
3
BT AT
2.8
0.0
2.4
2.1
Effect of the treatment on
constipation
Study
Control
0
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1
BT AT
0.696 0.7190.658
0.822
Effect of the treatment on T3 parameter
Study
Control
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
BT AT
54.01 54.91
43.76
65.92
Effect of the treatment on T4 parameter
Study
Control
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Graph 9. Effect of the treatment on TSH
DISCUSSION
Pharmacognostical study
Moisture content of the shade dried drug
determined by Dean & Starks apparatus was
found to be 11%. Total ash of any drug is the
residue obtained on its complete incineration in
an electric Bunsen burner. This mainly
represents the inorganic salts present in the
drug, if the drug is pure and any impurities like
sand, soil etc. adhering to the drug will also
remain as ash, thus increasing the ash value
several fold. Ash value is the general criterion
to ascertain the purity of the drug. Total ash
value of the drug was found to be 3.05%. Water
insoluble ash mainly gives the percentage of
organic matter present in the ash and this was
found to be 2.23%. Acid insoluble ash, which
mainly gives the percentage of the sand and
impurities that remain insoluble in HCl and it
was found to be 1.47%. Water soluble extracts
of the drug mainly represents the percentage of
organic constituents such as tannins, sugars,
plant acids, mucilage and glycosides. Alcohol
soluble extracts mainly represents the
percentage of organic constituents such as
alkaloids, phenols, flavanoids, steroids, sugars
etc. present in the drug.
Successive solvent extraction, which is the
extraction of the drug with organic solvents of
increasing polarity, was applied for the
isolation of active constituents from the crude
drug. The highest percentage of extract was
obtained by the extraction with acetone (12.0
%) and least with the solvent cyclo-hexane 0.80
percent.
The extracts obtained by exhausting crude
drugs are indicative of approximate measure of
their chemical constituents. Successive
extraction showed scattered results because of
the combination of two drugs. Due to Āmalakī
cūrnam (Phyllanthus emblica) tannin present in
all the extracts and steroids are present in all
except cyclohexane extractive. While alkaloid
(by Mayer‟s reagent) is present only in
cyclohexane extract and alkaloid by
Dragendroff‟s reagent present in all except
water soluble extract. Phenol and flavonoids
are present in all the extract except petroleum
ether and cyclohexane extractives.
Clinical study
Student „t‟ test was applied to find out level
of significance for all the parameters with in
the treatment and control group. The data were
statistically analyzed before and after
intervention. Both the groups were not
compared since only study group showed
significant improvement on subjective
parameters and only control group showed
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
BT AT
55.99
23.46
62.79
8.17
Effect of the treatment on TSH
Study
Control
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significant improvement on T3 and T4 level.
None of them showed significant effect on TSH
parameter.
Probable Mode of Action in a nut shell
It has been established for a very long time
that there is a complex relationship between
thyroid disease, body weight and metabolism.
(K.P. Paulose, 2011). Thyroid hormones
regulate metabolism in human. It is also
reported that difference in BMRs are associated
with changes in energy balance. (K.P. Paulose,
2011). Studies concluded that under secretion
of thyroid hormones leads to low BMR and
thereby weight gain, decrease in energy balance
causes sleepiness and muscle cramps. Once the
drug holds the body metabolism all these
symptoms get relieved. Functions of thyroid
hormone have a close resemblance to the
Dhātvāgni (digestive potency of cells). (Alsa
mariyam kalathancheri, 2008). Constipation is
the foremost symptom of this disease which
may be due to Agnimāndhya (loss of appetite)
and Āma (indigested food material). Both the
drugs are considered most excellent Pitta
śamakas (drugs which mollify Pitta) and hence
balance the Pitta and regularize the Dhātvāgni.
Madhura (sweet) and Amlarasa (sore), Snigdha
guna, Madhura Vipāka and Usna Vīrya
(warmth in potency) of drugs simply mollify
the aggravated Vāta. Kasāya rasa, Ruksa guna
and Usna Vīrya eliminate the kapha in channels
and also help in improving Agni. Once Agni get
normalized, the signs and symptoms of
Hypothyroidism like constipation, weight gain,
excessive sleep and muscle cramp all get
relieved. Guducī Satvam having Snigdha guna
and Madhura rasa reduces the dryness of skin.
Āmalakī cūrnam by virtue of its Ruksa guna
reduces the excess accumulated water in case
of Hypothyroidism which is the main cause of
weight gain.
Study drugs, Guducī Satvam and Āmalakī
cūrnam both having Rasāyana properties are
best for longstanding disease like
Hypothyroidism. In case of primary
Hypothyroidism, the anomaly happens is in
thyroid gland itself. The under-production of
thyroid hormones leads to increased TSH from
pituitary and various signs and symptoms.
Considering rejuvenative property of drugs,
their outcome can be justified. Being pitta
śamana, they reduce inflammatory changes;
being vāta śamana (drugs which mollify vāta)
may reverse the condition of destroyed thyroid
follicles or hold up the follicles to amplify the
liberation of hormones. Anti-oxidant and
immuno-modulatory effect of these drugs helps
in this action.
CONCLUSION
HPTLC finger print showed more than four
chemical constituents present in Guducī
Satvam. HPTLC finger print showed 11 peaks
may represent chemical constituents present in
Āmalakī cūrnam. There is no negative
impression in HPTLC profile of Thyromax
powder due to combination of two herbs.
Thyromax powder is found to be more effective
in reducing the subjective parameters.
Thyroxine sodium is found to be more effective
on T3 and T4 parameters. Thyromax powder
and Thyroxine sodium both are found to be
insignificant on TSH level parameter.
REFERENCES
Alsa mariyam kalathancheri (2008). Ayurvedic
perspective on endocrinology with
special reference to Hyperthyroidism
and Hypothyroidism. Thesis submitted
to Kerala University,
Thiruvananthapuram.
Anonymous, Indian Council for Medical
Research, New Delhi (2003).
Appendix I and II, Quality Standards
of Indian medicinal Plants. Vol. 1, 1st
edition.235–37.
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 52–64
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
Anonymous, The Controller of Publication
(Reprint 2001), Appendix 1, 2.1, 2.2,
3 and 4, New Delhi. The Ayurvedic
Pharmacopoeia of India. Part 1, Vol.
II, 1st edition. 205–08.
Anonymous. Pharmacopoeia of India (2001),
Govt. of India, Ministry of Health. The
The Controller of Publication. Vol.2; A
– 53–55.
Billore KV, Yelne MB, Dennis TJ,
Chaudhari BG (2005). Database on
Medicinal Plants used in Ayurveda.
Vol. 3, 1st edition. New Delhi,
CCRAS,;11.
Chanchal Gupta (2003). A comparative study
of Pipalī prayoga and Śodhan purvaka
Śamana cikitsā in the management of
dhātvāgni vikrti (Hypothyroidism)
Thesis Submitted to Gujarat Āyurveda
University, Jamnagar.
Dikshit V, Damre AS, Kulkarni KR (2003).
Priliminary screening of immunocin for
immunomodulatory activity. Indian J.
Pharm Sci.71:254–7.
Gay J Canaris, Neil R Manowitz, Gilbert
Mayor, Chester Ridgway (2000). The
Colorado Thyroid disease prevalence
study. Arch. Intern Med.160:526–34.
K.P. Paulose (Editorial) (July 2011). Kerala
Medical Journal.; Issue4.
N. Kochupillai, C S Pandav, MM Godbole,
M Mehta and M M S Ahuja (1986).
Iodine deficiency and neonatal
hypothyroidism. Bill World Health
organ. 64(4):547–51.
Shukal V, Vashistha M, Singh SN (2009).
Evaluation of Antioxidant profile and
activity of Amalaki, Spirulina and
wheat grass. Indian Journal of
Biochem.24(1):70–75.
Sir Stanley Davidson (2006).
Hypothyroidism. In: Davidson
Principles & Practice of Medicine,
20th
Edition, Churchill Livingstone
Elsevier Health Science,
Philadelphia, 691.
Unnikrishnan AG, Usha V Menon (2011).
Thyroid disease in India- An
epidemiological perspective. Indian J.
Endocr Metab. 15:S78–81.
Vanderpump MP (1995). The incidence of
thyroid disorders in the community:
A twenty year followup of the
Whickham Survey. Clin Endocrinol
(Oxf). 43(1):55–68.
Source of Support: Nil Conflict of Interest: None Declared
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 65–72
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
ISSN 2277-4289 | www.gjrmi.com | International, Peer reviewed, Open access, Monthly Online Journal
RUDRAKHA: A REVIEW ON MYTHOLOGICAL, SPRITUAL AND
MEDICINAL IMPORTANCE
Kumar Naresh 1
, Dubey Mukesh2, Agarwal Vivek
3*
1Assistant Professor, Department of Dravyaguna, M.S.M. Institute of Ayurveda, B.P.S. Mahila
Vishwavidyalaya, Khanpur kalan, Distt. Sonipat, Haryana – 131305, India 2Assistant Professor, Department of Agada Tantra, M.S.M. Institute of Ayurveda, B.P.S. Mahila
Vishwavidyalaya, Khanpur kalan, Distt. Sonipat, Haryana – 131305, India 3Assistant Professor, Department of Roga Nidana, M.S.M. Institute of Ayurveda, B.P.S. Mahila
Vishwavidyalaya, Khanpur kalan, Distt. Sonipat, Haryana – 131305, India
*Corresponding author: Email- [email protected]; Mobile: +919416051032
Received: 10/12/2012; Revised: 25/12/2012; Accepted: 05/01/2013
ABSTRACT
Since long time back, Rudraksha, has been recognized in Ayurveda due to its spiritual and
medicinal uses. According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that anyone who wears Rudraksha
beads get the mental and physical prowess to achieve spiritual enlightenment. As an Ayurvedic
medicine it is used in the management of blood pressure, mental disorders, neurological disorders,
asthma, diabetes and gynecological disorders. It retards the aging process. Modern medical science
also recognises its anchoring effect on heart and circulatory system because of its electric and
diamagnetic properties. This review article is aimed at explaining the ancient mythological, spiritual
and medicinal attributes of Rudraksha on the basis of modern science.
Key words: Rudraksha, mythology, diamagnetic properties.
Review article
Cite this article:
Kumar Naresh, Dubey Mukesh, Agarwal Vivek (2013), RUDRAKHA: A REVIEW ON
MYTHOLOGICAL, SPRITUAL AND MEDICINAL IMPORTANCE, Global J Res. Med. Plants
& Indigen. Med., Volume 2(1): 65–72
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 65–72
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
INTRODUCTION
In Hindu mythology, Rudraksha beads bear
a great spiritual, religions and materialistic
significance. The Hindu mythology considers
Rudraksha as symbol of link between earth and
heaven. It is believed that it contains the secrets
of evolution of entire cosmos within itself
(Chaturvedi B K, 2004). For centuries, the
Hindu sages believe that one can cultivate
mental, physical and spiritual prowess to attain
fearlessness to achieve the ultimate
enlightenment (Seetha K N, 2008).
According to Shivpurana, the one who
wears the rosary of Rudraksha beads around
his/her wrist, arm, neck or head can roam in the
world fearlessly as does the Rudra and he/she
cannot be killed by a living being. Wearing it
makes the person respected and honoured by all
(Chaturvedi B K, 2004).
As per Ayurvedic system of medicine,
wearing Rudraksha beads relieves strain,
insomnia, anxiety, lack of concentration,
depression, palpitation, hypertension,
rheumatism, infertility and asthma. It has anti-
aging effect also (Dennis T. J., 1993).
Plant description:
Nearly 360 species of Rudraksha trees are
found in different parts of the world.
Elaeocarpus ganitrus Roxb. is the scientific
name for the most popular species of
Rudraksha tree. It belongs to the family
Tiliaceae. This species was named by Dr.
William Roxburgh. Elaeocarpus, this scientific
name was taken from Greek words, Elaei
which means – Wild olive, Carpus – fruit.
Rudraksha is named differently in different
languages across India. Rudraksha – in Sanskrit
& Marathi languages. Rudrakshi as in Kannada
language. Aakkam as in Tamil language. Its
English name is Litrasum bead tree. This
variety matches to the given specifications as
found in our epic books which are old enough.
This popular species is found in Nepal and
Indonesia in more concentration. (Yelne M. B.,
1995).
Habitat:
This plant is native of Indonesia. Now a
day, trees of Rudraksha are found in tropical
and subtropical areas at the altitude ranging
from sea level to 2000 meters above sea level.
It is mostly found in South East Asia, Island of
Java, Sumatra, Borneo, Bali, Iran, Timor
(Indonesia) and Nepal. (Yelne M. B., 1995).
Botanical Description of Plant:
It is a large evergreen tree with broad
leaves. Its height ranges from 50–200 feet.
Leaves are large and shining green on the sun
facing side and dull leathery on earth facing
side. Flowers appear in the month of April-May
and are white in colour. Fruits start appearing
in June and ripen by October. Ripe fruit is
fleshy and has a seed with blue shell. Inner part
or bead lying in the seed is called Rudraksha.
(Yelne, M. B., 1995).
Chemical compostion:
C-H-N analyzer and gas chromatography
has shown that it contains 50.30% Carbon,
0.95% Nitrogen, 17.897% Hydrogen and
30.53% oxygen. Among other elements it
contains Aluminium, Chlorine, chloride,
Copper, Cobalt, Nickel, Iron, Magnesium,
Manganese, Phosphorus, Potassium, Sodium,
Zinc and Silicon oxide. (Pandey V B and
Bhattacharya S K,1985).
Properties of Rudraksha as per Ayurveda: (Dennis T. J., 1993).
It is guru (heavy), snigdha (unctuous) in
native, madhura (sweet) in taste, madhura in
vipaka (sweet in post-digestive taste and sheet
virya (cooling potency). Because of all these
attributes it has vata-pitta pacifying action on
the body.
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Medicinal properties as per Ayurveda:
(Dennis T. J., 1993) and (Saminathan K R,
2009).
Rudraksha beads have several amazing
powers due to their electromagnetic properties.
Wearing it affects the body and performs
following actions:
Rudraksha is a natural tranquilizer.
Wearing rosary of its beads relieves stress,
insomnia, anxiety, depression and lack of
concentration. It calms mind and cool down the
body temperature. Wearing it around heart
controls heart beats and keeps blood pressure
under control. It slows down the aging
process.Wearing three faced Rudraksha cures
frequent fever in children. Wearing Garbh-
gauri Rudraksha helps women in conceiving
and get rid of threatened abortion. It has anti-
paralysis properties. It helps balancing the vital
chakras of human body that control wind, bile
and phlegm.
Its systemic use is useful in following
conditions:
Five faced Rudraksha possesses anti-
hypertensive properties. Dip two beads of it in
a glass of water in night and leave it over-night.
Drinking this water in the morning in empty
stomach condition controls blood pressure.
Powder of beads when mixed with any
Ayurvedic herb improves its effectiveness and
period of treatment. Paste of ten faced beads
taken with milk thrice a day cures cough.
External use of paste and systemic use of
powder form cures skin disorder, sores,
pimples, boils, burns and ringworm. Use of
mixture of powder and black pepper in equal
quantity taken with water is useful in smallpox.
Boil two beads of four faced Rudraksha in one
glass of milk and drinking this milk is very
useful in patient of manas rogas (mental
disorders) and poor memory.
Electric properties of Rudraksha: (Joyce
Diamanti, 2001).
The whole human body behaves as a
complex bio-electric circuit consisting of
nervous system and other organs. A number of
electrical impulses are generated in the human
body because of continuous heart beats, blood
circulation, and conduction of sensory and
motor impulses in nerves, contraction and
relaxing of muscle fibers. These electrical
impulses are known as bio-electricity. Because
of difference in the energy levels of different
body parts, flow of bio-electric current starts.
Smooth and controlled flow of this bio-electric
current in the body provides streamlined
functioning of different body systems. All the
activities in our sense organs are governed by
flow of this bio-electric current.
Psycho-somatic stress and maladjustment
disrupts this streamlined flow of bio-electric
current as well as normal functioning of the
body systems which results in uncomfortable
feeling, illness and abnormal psyche.
Rudraksha beads possess the property of a
stabilizing anchor. Wearing these beads
controls and normalizes the flow of bio-electric
current in body. Rudraksha exhibits the
following electrical properties (David W. Lee,
1991)
Resistance – Rudraksha of particular type of
mukhi have a definitive factor of resistance. It
resists the flow of bio-electric current generated
due to potential difference between different
organs or parts of the body. This resistance
generates a specific ampere of current flow
depending on the factor of resistance. This acts
in tandem with heartbeat, streamlining it and
sending out specific impulses to brain to
generate certain bio-chemicals in the brain
which brings positivity in mood and more
confidence making us feel better, more poised
and energetic.
It is important to mention here that specific
variety of Rudraksha sends specific impulses
acting on a specific type of bio-chemicals in the
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brain thereby bringing specific positive changes
in the personality.
Capacitance: This term means ability to store
the bio-electric energy. The values are
measured in the units of Farad. This property of
Rudraksha makes them capable of stabilizing
and anchoring the flow of bio-electric current
thereby controlling and normalizing heart beat
and sensory activities in the body. The
increased level of stress results in increased
physical activity in the body along with
increase in heart beats, hormonal and nervine
activities, thus increasing energy levels and
potential differences at different levels. As a
result the magnitude of flow of bio-electric
current increases.
Rudraksha beads acts as capacitor or
dielectric store when directly comes in contact
with body and absorbs or store this excess of
bio-energy streamlining the overall activity in
the body to normalcy.
Inductance: Specific type of Rudraksha sends
out specific inductive vibrations because of
unique magnetic properties. These vibrations
are the reason for why the people feel better
even when the beads do not touch them
physically.
Magnetic properties of Rudraksha: (Joyce
Diamanti, 2001).
The beneficial healing properties of
magnets are an established factor. Rudraksha
also heave magnetic properties. It has both
paramagnetic and diamagnetic properties. It has
unique feature of having ability to change its
polarity. This feature is called dynamic
polarity. In Rudraksha, it is by virtue of
diamagnetism which is defined as the ability of
any substance to acquire temporary magnetic
property in presence of an external magnetic
field. The polarity of the charge induced is
always opposite to that of the external field
inducing the charge.
How the Rudraksha beads streamline the
functioning of heart and circulatory system is
explained by the diamagnetic property of
Rudraksha. (Sarkar P K et al., 2000).
Supply of oxygen and energy to the
different body parts is hampered if the
circulation of blood is blocked or reduced
because of any blockage in the passage of
blood vessels. This results in impaired
functioning of the affected body part thereby
causing illness.
We know that every cell of the arteries and
veins as well as blood cells is either charged
positive or negative. When a magnet comes in
contact with a body part the opposite poles of
the magnet and that of the cells get attracted.
This attraction, in case of blood vessels, causes
expansion of the passage and opening up of
them facilitating the normal blood circulation.
Normal supply of oxygen and energy through
streamlined blood circulation makes us
rejuvenated. If an ordinary magnet is brought
near any part of the body it attracts the cells of
only those sections of the blood vessels which
oppositely charged hence complete
streamlining of blood circulation cannot be
ensured.
We know the circulation of blood & heart
beats continuously induces a magnetic field
around the body and particularly heart region.
The bio-electric flow in the body also develops
bio-magnetism depending on the polarity of the
induced magnetic field. When Rudraksha
comes in contact with body it acquires a
polarity that is opposite to the inducing field.
That’s why it helps in opening up of the blood
vessels better than magnets.
Pure and Genuine Rudraksha:- (Yelne M.
B., 1995).
Now a day, rarely faceted Rudraksha beads
such as ek mukhi (one faced) beads are being
manufactured by artificial means to make
financial benefits. In such circumstances, it is
important to check the purity and genuine-ness
of the beads before buying them by any of
these methods:
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Cut test: – This test is most reliable for
checking the genuineness of Rudraksha beads.
If, on cutting the bead horizontally the bead
shows same number of compartments as that of
facets or faces, it is a genuine bead. But, this
method has a major drawback that the bead
gets destroyed.
Copper coin test: – If a Rudraksha bead is
placed between two copper coins or copper
chips, the bead rotates slightly because of its
physical and magnetic properties.
Electro–magnetic properties: – The original
beads manifests properties like resistance,
capacitance, inductance, conductance of
electric current, magnetic forces etc.
Water test: – The higher valued beads like
Trijuti and Gauri-shankar Rudraksha
manufactured by artificially gluing the two or
three beads can be tested with this method. On
boiling the bead with water, sharp
discolouration appears at the joints of artificial
Rudraksha.
The genuine beads sink in water. Fake
traders of Rudraksha deceive the customers by
dipping the beads in water. But, it is important
to mention, here that fake beads prepared out of
wood and impregnated with lead will sink in
water thereby giving a fake impression of real
Rudraksha.
Table No. 01: Different type of Rudraksha their Ruling God, Planet and Beej Mantra
(Empowering verse) (Swarnalatha N, 2000) and (Vigyananand Swami, 2000).
Type of
Rudraksha
Ruling God Planet Beej Mantra
1 Faced Shiva Sun Om Hreem Nama
2 Faced Ardhnareeshwar Moon Om Namah
3 Faced Agni Mass Om kleemNamha
4 Faced Brahma Mercury Om Kleem Namha
5 Faced Kalaagni Jupiter Om Hreem
6 Faced Kartikeya Venus Om Hreem Hoom Namah
7 Faced Mahalaxmi Saturn Om Hoom
8 Faced Ganesh Rahu Om Hoom Namah
9 Faced Durga Ketu Om Heem Hoom Namah
10 Faced Vishnu None Om Hreem Namha Namah
11 Faced Hanuman None Om Hreem Hoom Namah
12 Faced Sun Sun Om Drom Sarom Ram Namah
13 Faced Indra Venus Om Hreem Namah
14 Faced Hanuman None Om Namah
Gauri Shanker Moon - Om Shree Gauri Shankar
Ganesh
Rudraksha Ganesh - -
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Table No. 02: Different type of Rudraksha and their indication (Dennis, T. J., 1993)
Type of
Rudraksha Indication
1 Faced Chronic asthma heart problems, mental anxiety, T.B, paralysis, stroke, eye
problem bone pain and head ache.
2 Faced Impotency, renal failure, stress, anxiety, lack of concentration, depression,
negative thinking, eye problems, mental chaos, hysteria and intestinal disorder.
3 Faced
Depression, schizophrenia, weakness multifarious, directive of the menstrual
cycley/menstrual stress, fixation or guilt induced complexes, blood pressure,
mood swings, fever or weakness, jaundice and mental disability.
4 Faced Blood circulation, cough and brain linked illness, asthma, hesitate, memory lapse
and respiratory strip problems.
5 Faced Blood pressure, heart problems, stress, mental disability, fatness, anger
management, diabetics, piles, neurotic and maladjustment problems.
6 Faced Epilepsy and gynecological problems.
7 Faced Asthma, pharyngitis, impotency, foot related disease, respiratory and confusion.
8 Faced Stomach ache, stress, skin diseases and anxiety.
9 Faced Work as mysterious medicine for treating strange diseases.
10 Faced Hormonal inequality in the body, mental insecurity and whooping cough.
11 Faced Body pain, backache, chronic alcoholism and liver diseases.
12 Faced Bone diseases, rickets, osteoporosis, mental disability and anxiety.
13 Faced Muscular dystrophies
14 Faced Brain related and many other types of disease.
15 Faced
Skin diseases, recurring miscarriage and still birth. It is measured as a blessing
for women who are incapable to imagine and in such case both the partner should
wear it for fruitfulness.
16 Faced Leprosy, tuberculosis, cor – pulmonale and lung diseases
17 Faced Memory lapse and body functional disorders
18 Faced Mental harmonization and loss or power.
19 Faced Blood disorder and spinal disorder.
20 Faced Eyesight problems and snake bites
21 Faced It eliminates all form of disease.
Trijuti/tribhagi Internal and external body disorders
Gaurisankar Sexual and behavioral disorders
Garbha gauri Gynecological disorders
Types of Rudraksha: – (Swarnalatha N, 2000).
According the Hindu mythology, the
Rudraksha has originated from tear drops fallen
from the three eyes of Rudra (Lord Shiva).
Three eyes of Rudra represent sun, moon and
fire. Rudraksha beads born out of tears of solar
eye of Rudra are brown in colour and are of 12
types. Those beads which are born of his lunar
eye are fair and are of 16 types. The furious eye
tears gave origin to black Rudraksha which are
of 10 types. In this way, ancient scriptures
mention 38 types of Rudraksha.
Traditionally, Rudraksha beads are
categorized on the basis of clefts or faces or
mukhas the beads bears. Two mukhi to fourteen
mukhi Rudraksha are commonly available in
the market. One mukhi and Fifteen to twenty
one mukhi Rudraksha are rare and costly
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varieties. Three more varieties namely Ganesh
Rudraksha, Gauri Shankar Rudraksha and
Garbh–Gauri Rudraksha are also available in
the markets.
Invocation of Rudraksha – (Swarnalatha N,
2000).
Before bearing, it should be sanctified.
Specific type of Rudraksha is sanctified by
chanting specific Beej mantra (empowering
verse) and performing specific rites and rituals.
It empowers and blesses the beads with
amazing powers. Usually this sanctification
ceremony is performed in the morning of
Monday and the sanctified bead is worn the
same day after touching it with Shivalinga (the
symbol of Lord Shiva) (Parthasarathy V, 1993).
DISCUSSION
Since the epic times, Rudraksha beads have
been attracting the attention of not only the
ordinary human beings but also the sages,
scientists and physicians because of attributes
and powers. Across the world, scientists from
the field of Physics, Bio Chemistry,
Pharmaceutics and Medicine etc. are doing
research on molecular levels on this herb.
Recent researches on Rudraksha have proved
the existence of miraculous electro-magnetic
properties in it. The beneficial effects of these
electro-magnetic properties on human body are
also no more secret now.
Classification on the basis of external
features of the beads is not correct
scientifically. But, ancient scriptures classify
and tag the quality and importance to different
mukhi beads according to the number or type of
mukha (Faces) the bead has.
CONCLUSION
The mythological and spiritual importance
of anything has roots in faith and belief the
human beings have. They do not require any
explanations. But, the myths about miraculous
effects of Rudraksha on human body have been
proved true by modern science. The medicinal
uses of Rudraksha beads in human body have
been established through clinical trials under
controlled and standard conditions. The
exceptional electro- magnetic properties,
especially diamagnetism contained in these
beads are responsible for the beneficial effects
on the different systems of human body
through mere contact with these beads or
wearing them. Out of nearly 360 species of
Rudraksha, three specieses namely
Elaeocarpus ganitrus Roxb. ex. G. Don, (Syn:
Elaeocarpus sphaerica Gaertn) and
Elaeocarpus angustifolius Blume. have been
found possessing the properties for which these
beads are in demand. At places even Guazuma
ulmifolia Lam., Ulmaceae, commonly known
as Badraksha is taken as a poor substitute of
Rudraksha. (Bodhi Nighantu, 2010)
Till date, comparative evaluation of all the
properties of different mukhi (types of)
Rudraksha has also not been done scientifically
under controlled conditions. Scientific research
from this point of view will further unfold the
mysteries related to Rudraksha.
REFERENCES:
Bodhi Nighantu (2010), Singh Gurucharan,
Guazuma ulmifolia (Rudrasham) from
Delhi, Bodhi Nighantu, Retrieved from
URL on 30/11/2012: URL -
groups.google.com/group/bodhi-
nighantu
Chaturvedi B.K. (2004). Shiv Purana,
Vidyeshwar Samhita, Chapter 25,
Diamond Books (P) Ltd., New Delhi,
Parts 01–95
David W. Lee (1991). Ultrastructural basis and
function of iridescend blue colour of
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 1 | January 2013 | 65–72
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
fruits in Elaeocarpus, Nature, Vol. 349,
No.6306, p. 260–262.
Dennis T. J. (1993). Rudraksha - Not Just a
Spiritual Symbol But Also a Medicinal
Remedy, Sachitra Ayurved 46, 2, p 142.
Parthasarathy Vanamala, (1993), Ancient
Indian History and Culture of the
Anathacharya Indological Research
Institute, Bombay, 1993, p. 98–100).
Joyce Diamanti (2001). More about Rudraksha,
The Bead Society of Greater
Washington Newsletter, 18(2): p.6–8.
Swarnalatha N., (2000), Rudraksam, Journal of
Sukrtindra Oriental Research Institute,
Vol. 03, P.17–22.
Pandey V. B. and S. K. Bhattacharya (1985).
Scientific appraisal of Rudraksha
(Elaeocarpus ganitrus): chemical and
pharmacological studies", JREIM,
P.66–71.
Saminathan K. R. Veda (2009). The Amazing
Power Of Rudraksha, P.55.
Sarkar. P. K., Bhattacharya S.S. and Sengupta
(2001), Further observations with
Elaeocarpus ganitrus on Normal and
Hypodynamic Heart, Department of
Pharmacology, Medical College
Calcutta.
Seetha K.N. (2008). The Power of Rudraksha,
4th
edition, Jaico Publishing House,
2008, Mumbai, p. 23–78.
Vigyananand Swami (2000), Srimad Devi
Bhagvatam, 11th
Skanda, Allahabad
Panini Office, Allahabad, Vol. 26,
Chapter 3–7.
Yelne, M. B. (1995) Notes on The Botanical
Identity of Beads Found Under The
Name: Rudraksha, Biorhythm, AYU.
academy series, 44, P. 39–44.
Source of Support: Nil Conflict of Interest: None Declared
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Call for Papers – Vol. 2, Issue 3, March 2013
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