Ayurvedic Herbs

KAKANASIKA (Seed)

Kakanasika consists of dried seed of Martynia annua Linn. Syn. M diandra Glox. (Fam. Martyniacem); an annual herb found throughout the country in waste places.

SYNONYMS

Sansk. : Kakangi, Sirobal, Cerasnaya
Assam. : —
Beng. : Kurki, Kaih, Baghnoki
Eng. : Tiger’s Claw, Devil’s Claw
Guj. : —
Hindi. : Bichu Hathajori, Kawathodi
Kan. : Garuda Mugu
Kash. : —
Mal. : —
Mar. : Vinchuachajada
Ori. : —
Punj. : Kaktundi, Bichu, Hathajari
Tam. : Kakatundi
Tel. : Garudamukku, Telukondikaya
Urdu. : —

DESCRIPTION

a) Macroscopic

Seed oblong, hard, woody, 2-5 cm long and 1.5-1.7 cm wide; surface wrinkled, light brown to black; two sharp recurved hooks present at anterior end; four prominent grooves present each on convex and concave side and on lateral sides, 2-4 hairy spines present inside groove on concave side; no taste and odour.

Powder– Black and rough; shows groups of thick-walled cells, numerous fibres, unicellular hairs and oil globules.

IDENTITY, PURITY AND STRENGTH

Foreign matter Not more than 2 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.2
Total ash Not more than 3 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.3
Acid-insoluble ash Not more than 1 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.4
Alcohol-soluble extractive Not less than 3 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.6
Water-soluble extractive Not less than 3 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.7

T.L.C. –

T.L.C. of the alcoholic extract on Silica gel ‘G’ plate using Toluene: Ethylacetate (9:1) shows under U.V. (366 nm) two fluorescent zones at Rf. 0.66 and 0.95 (both blue). On exposure to Iodine vapour four spots appear at Rf. O.11, 0.42, 0.57 and 0.95 (all yellow). On spraying with Vanillin-Sulphuric acid reagent and heating the plate for ten minutes at 1050 C four spots appear at Rf. 0.11, 0.42, 0.57 and 0.95 (all violet).

CONSTITUENTS – Fixed Oil- (Semidrying type).

PROPERTIES AND ACTION

Rasa : Madhura
Guna : Sita
Virya : Sita
Vipaka : Madhura
Karma : Pittaghna, Dardhyakara, Rasayana

IMPORTANT FORMULATIONS – Cyavanprasa, Aveleha, Tryusanadi Ghrta

THERAPEUTIC USES – Palita

DOSE – 2-5 g.

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DRAKSA (Fruit)

Draksa consists of dried mature fruits of Vitis vinifera Linn. (Fam. Vitaceae); a deciduous climber, mostly cultivated in north western India in Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Kashmir for their use as dessert fruit. However, the dried fruits, known in trade as ‘Raisins’, are mostly imported into India, from the Middle East and Southern European countries.

SYNONYMS

Sansk. : Mrdvika, Gostani
Assam. : Dakh, Munaqqa
Beng. : Maneka
Eng. : Dry Grapes, Raisins
Guj. : Drakh, Darakh
Hindi. : Munkka
Kan. : Draksha
Kash. : —
Mal. : Munthringya
Mar. : Draksha, Angur
Ori. : Drakya, Gostoni
Punj. : Munaca
Tam. : Drakshai, Kottai Drakshai
Tel. : Draksha Kottai, Drakshai
Urdu. : Munaqqa

DESCRIPTION

a) Macroscopic

Fruit a berry, sticky and pulpy, dark brown to black; oblong or oval, sometimes spherical; 1.5 -2.5 cm long and 0.5-1.5 cm wide; outer skin irregularly wrinkled forming ridges and furrows; usually contain 1-4 seeds, 4-7 mm long, ovoid rounded to triangular or simply ovoid, brown to black; odour, sweetish and pleasant; taste, sweet.

b) Microscopic

A single layered epidermis cells filled with reddish-brown contents; mesocarp pulpy, made up of thin-walled, irregular cells containing prismatic crystals of calcium oxalate, measuring 13.75 -41 μ in dia.; some fibro-vascular bundles also present in this region; seeds composed of testa and endosperm; testa composed of thick-walled yellowish cells; endosperm composed of angular parenchymatous cells containing oil globules and cluster crystals of calcium oxalate, measuring 11-16 μ in diameter.

IDENTITY, PURITY AND STRENGTH

Foreign matter Not more than 2 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.2
Total ash Not more than 3 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.3
Acid-insoluble ash Not more than 0.2 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.4
Alcohol-soluble extractive Not less than 25 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.6
Water-soluble extractive Not less than 70 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.7
Loss on drying Not more than 15 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.9

T.L.C. –

T.L.C of the alcoholic extract on Silica gel ‘G’ plate using n-Butanol : Acetic acid: Water (4:1: 5) shows under UV (366 nm) a fluorescent zone at Rf. 0.29 (blue). On exposure to Iodine vapur four spots appear at Rf. 0.08, 0.29, 0.69 and 0.85 (all yellow). On spraying with 5% Methanolic-Sulphuric acid reagent and heating the plate for about ten minutes at 110°C three spots appear at Rf. 0.08 (black), 0.29 (black) and 0.98 (violet)

CONSTITUENTS – Malic, Tartaric & Oxalic Acids, Carbohydrates and Tannins.

PROPERTIES AND ACTION

Rasa : Madhura, Kasaya
Guna : Guru, Sara, Snigdha
Virya : Sita
Vipaka : Madhura
Karma : Caksusya, Vrsya, BrÆhana, Vatapittahara, Svarya

IMPORTANT FORMULATIONS – Draksasava, Draksarista, Draksavaleha, Draksadi Kvatha Curna, Draksadi Curna, Eladi Gutika

THERAPEUTIC USES – Trsna, Jvara, Kasa, Svasa, Daha, Sosa, Kamala, Raktapitta, Ksata Ksina, Vibandha, Arsa, Agnimandya, Madatyaya, Pandu, Udavarta, Asya Sosa, Vatarakta

DOSE – 5-10 g. of the drug.

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KAKOLI (Tuberous Root)

Kakoli consists of dried tuberous root of Lilium polyphyllum D.Don (Fam. Liliacem); a plant found growing in Western temperate Himalayas from 1800-3600 m from Kumaon to Kashmir.

SYNONYMS

Sansk. : Vayasoli, Svadumanisi
Assam. : —
Beng. : Kakoli
Eng. : —
Guj. : Kakoli
Hindi. : Kakoli
Kan. : Kakoli
Kash. : —
Mal. : Kakoli
Mar. : Kakoli
Ori. : Kakoli
Punj. : —
Tam. : Kakoli
Tel. : Kakoli, Kakoli Moola, Kandhambu
Urdu. : Kakoli

DESCRIPTION

a) Macroscopic

Roots straight or curved, dark brown and occur in bunches of 4-15; each root about 2-10 cm long, upto 0.7 cm thick; external surface rough due to presence of longitudinal wrinkles; odour, slightly aromatic; taste, acrid.

b) Microscopic

Tuberous root shows ridges and furrows in outline; cork 8-10 layered, consisting of thin-walled, tangentially elongated, almost radially arranged cells, upper cells filled with reddish-brown content; secondary cortex consisting of oval to elongated, thinwalled, parenchymatous cells filled with abundant, simple, ovoid to ellipsoidal starch grains, measuring 5-11μ in dia.; vascular bundles composed of usual elements, vessels arranged alternatively with phloem patches, vessels mostly solitary with spiral thickening; pith composed of oval to polygonal, thin-walled, parenchymatous cells.

Powder – Greenish-yellow; slightly aromatic in smell; shows spiral vessels, fragments of cork cells and simple, ovoid to ellipsoidal starch grains, measuring 5-11 μ in dia.

IDENTITY, PURITY AND STRENGTH

Foreign matter Not more than 1 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.2
Total ash Not more than 7 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.3
Acid-insoluble ash Not more than 1 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.4
Alcohol-soluble extractive Not less than 5 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.6
Water-soluble extractive Not less than 7 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.7

T.L.C. –

T.L.C. of the alcoholic extract on Silica gel ‘G’ plate using Toluene: Ethylacetate (9 : 1) shows in visible light two spots at Rf. 0.84 (yellow) and 0.97 (light yellow). Under UV (366 nm) five fluorescent zones visible at Rf. 0.23, 0.31 (both yellow), 0.44 (light yellow), 0.54 and 0.97 (both blue). On exposure to Iodine vapour thirteen spots appear at Rf. 0.15, 0.22, 0.23, 0.25, 0.31, 0.44, 0.54, 0.68, 0.78, 0.84, 0.88, 0.92 and 0.97 (all yellow). On spraying with Vanillin-Sulphuric acid reagent and heating the plate for ten minutes at 110°C five spots appear at Rf. 0.44, 0.54, 0.78, 0.84 and 0.97 (all violet).

CONSTITUENTS – Sugars.

PROPERTIES AND ACTION

Rasa : Madhura
Guna : Sita, Guru
Virya : Sita
Vipaka : Madhura
Karma : Brmhana, Pittahara, Vatahara, Sukrala

IMPORTANT FORMULATIONS – Brhat Asvagandha Ghrta, Brhat Chagaladya Ghrta, Dasmularista, Siva Gutika, Amrtaprasa Ghrta.

THERAPEUTIC USES – Raktapitta, Sosa, Jvara, Svasa, Kasa, Ksaya, Daha.

DOSE – 3-6 g.

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DURVA (Root)

Durva consists of dried fibrous roots of Cynodon dactylon (Linn.) Pers. (Fam. Poaceae); an elegant, hard, perennial, creeping grass growing throughout the country and ascending to 2440 m.

SYNONYMS

Sansk. : Satavirya
Assam. : —
Beng. : Durva
Eng. : Creeping Cynodon, Conch Grass
Guj. : Khadodhro, Lilidhro, Dhro
Hindi. : Doob
Kan. : Garike Hullu
Kash. : —
Mal. : Koruka Pullu
Mar. : Doorva, Hariyalee, Harlee
Ori. : —
Punj. : Dubada
Tam. : Aruvam Pullu
Tel. : Garika, Pacchgaddi
Urdu. : Doob Ghas, Doob

DESCRIPTION

a) Macroscopic

Roots fibrous, cylindrical, upto 4 mm thick, minute hair-like roots arise from the main roots; cream coloured.

b) Microscopic

Mature root shows epiblema or piliferous layer composed of single layered, thinwalled, radially elongated to cubical cells; hypodermis composed of 1-2 layered, thinwalled, tangentially elongated to irregular shaped cells; cortex differentiated into two zones, 1 or 2 layers of smaller, thin-walled, polygonal, lignified sclerenchymatous and 4-6 layers of thin-walled, elongated parenchymatous cells being larger; endodermis quite distinct being single layered, thick-walled, tangentially elongated cells; pericycle 1-2 layers composed of thin-walled sclerenchymatous cells; vascular bundles consisting of xylem and phloem, arranged in a ring on different radials; xylem exarch, having usual elements; centre occupied by wide pith, composed of oval to rounded thick-walled parenchymatous cells containing numerous simple, round to oval or angular starch grains measuring 4-16 μ in dia., and compound starch grains having 2-4 components.

Powder – Cream coloured; fragments of xylem vessels with pitted walls, thick-walled lignified sclerenchymatous cells and numerous simple round to oval or angular starch grains measuring 4-16 μ in dia., and compound starch grains having 2-4 components.

IDENTITY, PURITY AND STRENGTH

Foreign matter Not more than 2 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.2
Total ash Not more than 7 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.3
Acid-insoluble ash Not more than 3 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.4
Alcohol-soluble extractive Not less than 1 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.6
Water-soluble extractive Not less than 5 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.7

T.L.C. –

T.L.C of the alcoholic extract on Silica gel ‘G’ plate using n-Butanol : Acetic acid: Water (4:1:5) shows under UV (366 nm) three fluorescent zones at Rf 0.70, 0.89 (both blue) and 0.92 (pink). On exposure to Iodine vapour six spots appear at Rf 0.22, 0.30, 0.37, 0.80, 0.89 and 0.92 (all yellow) On spraying with 5% Methanolic-Sulphuric acid reagent and heating the plate at 105°C for ten minutes six spots appear at Rf 0.22, 0.30, 0.37, 0.80, 0.89, 0.92 (all grey).

CONSTITUENTS – Phenolic Phytotoxins and Flavonoids.

PROPERTIES AND ACTION

Rasa : Madhura, Tikta, Kasaya
Guna : Laghu
Virya : Sita
Vipaka : Madhura
Karma : Kaphapittasamaka, Raktapittanasaka, Dahaghna, Atisaraghna, Sramahara, Trptikara

IMPORTANT FORMULATIONS – Balasvagandha Laksadi Taila, Madhuyastyadi Taila, Marma Gutika, Manasa Mitra Vataka, Candrakala Rasa

THERAPEUTIC USES – Raktapitta, Trsnaroga, Daharoga, Visarpa, Tvakaroga, Arocaka, Duhsvapna, Bhutaroga, Raktapitta, Chardi, Murccha, Raktapradara, Mutra Daha

DOSE – 5-10 ml. (Svarasa).

 

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KAMALA (Rhizome)

Kamala consists of dried rhizome with roots attached at nodes of Nelumbo nucifera Gmrtn. Syn. Nelumbium nelumbo Druce, N. speciosum Willd. (Fam. Nymphmacem); an aquatic herb, with stout creeping rhizome found in lakes and ponds throughout the warmer parts of the country, ascending upto 1000 m.

SYNONYMS

Sansk. : Padnakanda, Saluka, Ambhoruha
Assam. : Kamal Kakdi
Beng. : —
Eng. : Sacred Lotus
Guj. : Loda
Hindi. : Kamal Kand, Kamal Kakdi
Kan. : Tavare Kande
Kash. : —
Mal. : Tamara Kizangu
Mar. : Kamal Kand
Ori. : Padma
Punj. : Kaul, Bhein
Tam. : Tamardi Kizangu
Tel. : Tamara Gadda
Urdu. : Kanwal Kakdi

DESCRIPTION

a) Macroscopic

Drug occurs as cut pieces of rhizome with distinct nodes and internodes, cylindrical, 0.5-2.5 cm in dia., longitudinally marked with brown patches, smooth, yellowishwhite to yellowish-brown; root adventitious, less developed, 0.5-1 mm thick, attached to node of rhizome; dark brown.

b) Microscopic

Rhizome – Shows a single layered epidermis followed internally by 2-4 layered lignified cells; cortex differentiated into three regions; outer cortex consisting of a wide zone of isodiametric thin-walled cells of which outer 5-6 layers collenchymatous and rest parenchymatous, having intercellular spaces and groups of fibres; middle cortex mostly composed of air cavities traversed by trabeculm of thin-walled small and nearly isodiametric cells; inner cortex forming central core, consists of spherical cells enclosing large intercellular spaces; vascular strands consists of scattered closed vascular bundles surrounded by thick-walled, lignified sclerenchymatous fibres, resembling a monocotyledonous structure; vessels having spiral and spiro-reticulate thickening; phloem composed of sieve tubes and companion cells; air cavities large, elliptic or rounded, largest at middle cortex and smaller towards inner cortex; air cavities lined by thin-walled, elongated, parenchymatous epithelial cells; starch grains abundant, rounded to oval, mostly simple, rarely compound measuring 8-27 μ in dia., loaded in cells.

Root – Appears more or less circular in outline, epidermis consists of oval, thin-walled parenchymatous cells; cortex composed of 5-8 layers of oval to polygonal, thin-walled parenchymatous cells, vascular elements surrounded by slightly lignified endodermis; phloem cells, xylem fibres aseptate with blunt ends; vessels with spiral thickening, rounded to oval, poorly developed and consisting of usual elements; xylem composed of vessels, tracheids and parenchyma; vessels and tracheids have simple pits.

Powder -Light brown; shows groups of oval to elongated, parenchymatous cells, xylem fibres aseptate with blunt ends; vessels with spiral thickening, rounded to oval simple starch grains measuring 8-27 μ in dia.

IDENTITY, PURITY AND STRENGTH

Foreign matter Not more than 2 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.2
Total ash Not more than 14 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.3
Acid-insoluble ash Not more than 3.5 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.4
Alcohol-soluble extractive Not less than 1.5 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.6
Water-soluble extractive Not less than 6.5 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.7

T.L.C. –

T.L.C. of the alcoholic extract on Silica gel ‘G’ plate using Chloroform: Methanol (4:1) shows in visible light one spot at Rf. 0.97 (light yellow). Under U.V. (366 nm) seven fluorescent zones visible at Rf. 0.06 (blue), 0.13 (blue) 0.43 (blue) 0.55 (blue), 0.78 (blue) 0.91 (blue) and 0.98 (reddish). On exposure to Iodine vapour eight spots appear at Rf. 0.13, 0.31, 0.45, 0.64, 0.76, 0.86, 0.93 and 0.96 (all yellow). On spraying with 5% Methanolic-Sulphuric acid and heating the plate for about ten minutes at 110°C four spots appear at Rf. 0.10 (grey), 0.64 (brown), 0.76 (brown) and 0.96 (brown).

CONSTITUENTS – Starch and Reducing Sugars.

PROPERTIES AND ACTION

Rasa : Madhura, Lavana, Katu, Tikta, Kasaya
Guna : Guru, Ruksa
Virya : Sita
Vipaka : Madhura
Karma : Caksusya, Krmighna, Kaphahara, Pittahara, Rucya, Vrsya, Varnya, Visaghna, Visambhakara, Dahasamaka, Raktadustihara, Durjara, Stanyajanana, Sangrahi, Mutravirecaniya, Vatakara.

IMPORTANT FORMULATIONS – Guducyadi Modaka

THERAPEUTIC USES – Daha, Trsna, Chardi, Raktapitta, Murcha, Kasa, Vatagulma, Visarpa, Visphota, Mutrakrchra, Dansodbhava, Jvara, Bhrama, Sosa, Hrdroga

DOSE – 10-20 ml. of the drug in juice form.
5-10 g. of the drug in powder form.

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ERANDA (Fresh Leaf)

Eranda consists of fresh leaf of Ricinus communis Linn. with entire petiole (Fam. Euphorbiaceae), a tall glabrous shrub or almost small tree, 2-4 m high; found throughout India, mostly growing wild on waste land and also cultivated for its oil seeds.

SYNONYMS

Sansk. : Gandharva-Hasta, Panchangul, Vatari
Assam. : Erri
Beng. : Bherenda
Eng. : Castor Oil Plant
Guj. : Erando
Hindi. : Erand, Rendee, Andu
Kan. : Harlu
Kash. : —
Mal. : Ambanakka, Avanakku
Mar. : Erand, Erandee
Ori. : Bheranda
Punj. : Erand
Tam. : Amanakku
Tel. : Amudanu, Amudmuchetu
Urdu. : Erand

DESCRIPTION

a) Macroscopic

Leaves green or reddish-green, broad, palmately lobed, with 5-11 lobes, 30-60 cm. dia., nearly orbicular, lobes oblong linear, acute or acuminate, margin serrate, vary from 4-20 cm in length, 2.5 -7.5 cm in width; petiole 10-20 cm long, cylindrical or slightly flattened towards distal and peltately attached to the blade, solid when young, becomes hollow on maturity.

PROPERTIES AND ACTION

Rasa : Madhura, Katu, Kasaya
Guna : Snigdha, Suksma, Tiksna
Virya : Usna
Vipaka : Madhura
Karma : Kaphavatasamaka, Vrsya, Krmighna, Pittaprakopaka, Raktaprakopaka, Yakrtutejaka

IMPORTANT FORMULATIONS – Caturbhadra Rasa, Caturmukha Rasa, Cintamani Ras

THERAPEUTIC USES – Krmi, Mutrakrcchra, Gulma, Vatavyadhi, Vasti Sula

DOSE – 10-20 ml. (Svarasa). 2-5 g. (Powder).

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KARAVIRA (Root)

Karavira consists of dried root of Nerium indicum Mill, Syn. N. odorum Soland (Fam. Apocynacem); a large glabrous, evergreen, woody shrub with milky juice, found throughout the year in upper Gangetic plains, Himalayas from Nepal to Kashmir upto 2000 m, Central and Southern India; also cultivated near the temples and gardens.

SYNONYMS

Sansk. : Divyapuspa, Satakumbha, Asvamaraka, Hayamara.
Assam. : Diflee, Sammulhimar
Beng. : Karbbe, Karbee
Eng. : Sweet-Scented Oleander
Guj. : Kaner
Hindi. : Kaner
Kan. : Kanagilu, Kharjahar, Kanigale, Kanagile
Kash. : —
Mal. : Kanaveeram
Mar. : Kanher
Ori. : —
Punj. : Kanir
Tam. : Sevvarali, Arali
Tel. : Kastooripatte, Errugumeru
Urdu. : Kaner

DESCRIPTION

a) Macroscopic

Drug available in cut pieces, 0.5-2.6 cm thick, branched, cylindrical, external surface greyish with long irregular streaks caused by rupture of bark, internal surface cream coloured; fracutre, short; taste, bitter.

b) Microscopic

Root shows cork consisting of 5-12 layered, thin-walled, rectangular, compactly arranged, parenchymatous cells, with a few outer layers occasionally exfoliated; secondary cortex consisting of 6-10 layers of oval, tangentially elongated, thinwalled, parenchymatous cells, a few thick-walled laticiferous cells present in this region; secondary phloem composed of oval to polygonal, thin-walled, parenchymatus cells; secondary xylem consisting of usual elements, having pitted vessels, fibres with pointed tips; xylem rays usually uniseriate and rarely biseriate; prismatic crystals of calcium oxalate and simple starch grains scattered in secondary cortex, secondary phloem and phloem rays; simple, oval to round, elliptical starch grains measuring 3-11 μ in dia., found-scattered in cortical cells, phloem and xylem rays.

Powder – Greyish-brown; shows thin-walled, parenchymatous cells, fragments of cork cells, pitted xylem fibres and vessels, a few prismatic crystals of calcium oxalate, simple, round to oval, elliptical starch grains measuring 3-11 μ in diameter.

IDENTITY, PURITY AND STRENGTH

Foreign matter Not more than 1 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.2
Total ash Not more than 7.5 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.3
Acid-insoluble ash Not more than 3.5 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.4
Alcohol-soluble extractive Not less than 8 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.6
Water-soluble extractive Not less than 8 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.7

T.L.C. –

T.L.C. of the alcoholic extract on Silica gel ‘G’ plate using Chloroform: Methanol (8 : 2) shows under U.V. (366 nm) ten fluorescent zones at Rf. 0.11, 0.15 (both yellow) 0.19 (blue), 0.26 (yellow), 0.49 (pink), 0.60, 0.64, 0.72, 0.88 (all blue) and 0.95 (yellow). On exposure to Iodine vapour ten spots appear at Rf. 0.11, 0.22, 0.30, 0.49, 0.53, 0.64, 0.68, 0.72, 0.90 and 0.95 (all yellow). On spraying with 5% Methanolic Sulphuric acid reagent and heating the plate at 105°C for about ten minutes eleven spots appear at Rf. 0.05, 0.11, 0.22, 0.30, 0.49, 0.53 (all grey) 0.64 (yellow), 0.68, 0.72 (both grey), 0.90 (violet) and 0.95 (brown).

CONSTITUENTS – Glycosides-Cardiac Glycosides and Resinous Matter.

PROPERTIES AND ACTION

Rasa : Katu, Tikta, Kasaya
Guna : Laghu, Ruksa, Tiksna
Virya : Usna
Vipaka : Katu
Karma : Sirovirecana, Caksusya, Krmighna, Sothaghna, Kandughna, Kusthhara

IMPORTANT FORMULATIONS – Brhanmaricadya Taila, Karaviradya Taila

THERAPEUTIC USES – Vrana, Upadansa, Kustha, Jalodara, Kandu.

DOSE – 30-125 mg. of the drug in powder form.

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ERANDA (Seed)

Eranda consists of dried seed of Ricinus communis Linn. (Fam. Euphorbiaceae); a tall glabrous shrub or almost small tree, 2-4 m high; found throughout India, mostly growing wild on waste land and also cultivated for its oil seeds.

SYNONYMS

Sansk. : Gandharva-Hasta, Panchangul, Vatari
Assam. : Erri
Beng. : Bherenda
Eng. : Castor Oil Plant
Guj. : Erando
Hindi. : Erand, Rendee, Andeo
Kan. : Harlu
Kash. : —
Mal. : Abanakka, Avanakku
Mar. : Eramd, Eramdee
Ori. : Bheranda
Punj. : Erand
Tam. : Amanakku
Tel. : Amudamu, Amudmuchetu
Urdu. : Erand

DESCRIPTION

a) Macroscopic

Seeds oblong, one face convex and the other slightly flattened, 1-1.5 cm long, 0.6-0.9 cm wide, 0.4-0.8 cm thick, testa hard, glossy, smooth, grey or brown to reddishbrown or black and may be variously marbled or striped, raphe extends from the caruncle to chalaza; odour, not distinct; taste, weakly acrid.

b) Microscopic

Seed shows a hard testa, membraneous tegmen, a fleshy endosperm, and thin embryo with flat, broad cotyledons; testa consists of hard, single layered epidermis, radially elongated, compactly arranged, slightly curved tabular cells, having reddishbrown contents followed by 8-10 layered, tangentially elongated parenchymatous cells, most of them containing oil globules, fibro-vascular bundles found scattered in this zone; endosperm consisting of oval, irregular cells filled with oil globules, abundant aleurone grains, measuring 8.2 – 13.75 μ in dia.; cotyledons, thin, flat and leafy.

Powder – Dark brown, oily; shows fragments of numerous elongated thick-walled, polygonal cells of testa, reddish-brown tabular cells, thin-walled oval to round parenchymatous cells of endosperm oil globules, numerous aleurone grains measuring upto 13.75 μ in dia. and including crystalloids and globoids within.

IDENTITY, PURITY AND STRENGTH

Foreign matter Not more than 2 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.2
Total ash Not more than 4 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.3
Acid-insoluble ash Not more than 1 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.4
Alcohol-soluble extractive Not less than 36 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.6
Water-soluble extractive Not less than 6 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.7
Fixed oil Not less than 37 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.8

T.L.C. –

T.L.C. of the alcoholic extract on Silica gel ‘G’ plate using Chloroform:
Ethylacetate (95 : 5) shows under U.V. (366 nm) a fluorescent spot at Rf. 0.95 (sky blue). On exposure to Iodine vapour seven spots appear at Rf. 0.39, 0.50, 0.64, 0.72, 0.80, 0.89 and 0.95 (all yellowish brown). On spraying with 5% Methanolic-Sulphuric acid reagent and heating the plate for about ten minutes at 105° C seven spots appear at Rf. 0.39, 0.50, 0.64, 0.72, 0.80, 0.89 and 0.95 (all brown).

CONSTITUENTS – Fixed Oil.

PROPERTIES AND ACTION

Rasa : Madhura, Katu, Kasaya
Guna : Snigdha, Suksma, Tiksna
Virya : Usna
Vipaka : Madhura
Karma : Dipana, Medohara, Amapacana, Vidbhedana, Anulomana, Srotosodhana, Vayasthapana

IMPORTANT FORMULATIONS – Brhat Saindhavadi Taila, Gandharvahastadi Taila, Simhanada Gaggulu, Misraka Sneha

THERAPEUTIC USES – Amavata, Vibandha, Yakrt Roga, Plihodara, Arsa, Kati Sula, Grdhrasi.

DOSE – 1/2 – 3 g. (Powder).

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KARAMARDA (Root)

Karamarda consists of dried root of Carissa carandas Linn. (Fam. Apocynacem); a dichotomously branched large shrub or small tree with strong simple or forked thorns in pairs, found throughout the country.

SYNONYMS

Sansk : Karamla, Karamardaka
Assam : —
Beng : Karamacha
Eng : —
Guj : Karamada
Hindi : Karaonda, Karaondi
Kan : Karayige
Kash : —
Mal : Modakam
Mar : Karabanda
Ori : —
Punj : —
Tam : Kalakkai
Tel : Vaka, Karavande
Urdu : —

DESCRIPTION

a) Macroscopic

Root considerably long, often irregularly bent, woody, cylindrical; rusty or yellowish-brown; 1-1.5 cm thick; surface smooth; fracture, hard; odour and taste, not distinct.

b) Microscopic

Mature root shows a stratified cork, lignified and tangentially elongated cells, consisting of alternating bands of smaller and larger cells; a few inner layers filled with red contents; secondary cortex very narrow, composed of 1 or 2 layers of thinwalled cells; secondary phloem composed of usual elements having a number of cavities, present in a row just below the secondary cortex; a number of stone cells present in large compact patches in different rows, in outer and inner phloem regions interrupting phloem rays; phloem rays uni-to biseriate; prismatic crystals of calcium oxalate occur in a number of cells throughout phloem region; cambium not distinct; secondary xylem very wide consisting of xylem vessels, fibres, tracheids and xylem parenchyma, all elements being lignified, xylem rays uni to biseriate, consisting of radially elongated cells; simple, round to oval, starch grains measuring 5.5-11 μ in dia., present throughout.

Powder – Yellowish-brown; shows patches of stratified cork, xylem fibres, stone cells, prismatic crystals of calcium oxalate and simple, round to oval, starch grains, measuring 5.5 – 11 μ in dia.

IDENTITY, PURITY AND STRENGTH

Foreign matter Not more than 2 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.2
Total ash Not more than 5 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.3
Acid-insoluble ash Not more than 1 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.4
Alcohol-soluble extractive Not less than 4 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.6
Water-soluble extractive Not less than 7 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.7

T.L.C. –

T.L.C. of the alcoholic extract on silica gel ‘G’ plate using Toluene: Ethylacetate (9: 1) shows under U.V. (366 nm) a conspicuous fluorescent zone at Rf. 0.07 (sky blue). On exposure to Iodine vapour four spots appear at Rf. 0.07, 0.26, 0.46 and 0.80 (all yellowish brown). On spraying with 5% Methanolic-Sulphuric acid reagent and heating the plate for about ten minutes at 110°C five spots appear at Rf. 0.07, 0.26, 0.46, 0.80 and 0.92 (all violet).

CONSTITUENTS – Glycosides -Cardiac Glycosides.

PROPERTIES AND ACTION

Rasa : Katu, Tikta
Guna : Laghu, Ruksa
Virya : Sita
Vipaka : Katu
Karma : Mutrala, Vamaka

IMPORTANT FORMULATIONS – Marma Gutika

THERAPEUTIC USES – Mutra Roga, Visphota, Vidradhi, Vrana.

DOSE – 1-3 g. of the drug in powder form.

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GAMBHARI (Stem)

Gambhari consists of dried stem of Gmelina arborea Roxb. (Fam. Verbenaceae), an unarmed, moderate sized, deciduous tree, found scattered in deciduous forest throughout the greater part of India upto an altitude of 1500 m., and the Andamans

SYNONYMS

Sansk. : Kasmari
Assam. : Gomari
Beng. : Gamar, Gambar,
Eng. : Candahar Tree, Cashmere Tree
Guj. : Sawan, Shewan
Hindi. : Gambhari
Kan. : Seevani, Kasmiri-mara
Kash. : —
Mal. : Sevana, Kumizhu
Mar. : Sivan
Ori. : Gambhari
Punj. : Khambhari
Tam. : Perunkurmizh
Tel. : Gummaditeku
Urdu. : —

DESCRIPTION

a) Macroscopic

Stem occurs as longitudinally and transversely cut pieces having varying length and thickness; hard, woody, smooth except for a few scars of branches; yellowish-grey externally and cream coloured internally.

b) Microscopic

Thin stem shows 10-15 or more layers of lignified cork, consisting of tangentially elongated, rectangular cells; secondary cortex 5-10 layers, oval to elliptical, thin-walled cells with tangential groups of fibres; pericycle present in the form of continuous ring consisting of patches of fibres alternating with stone cells: secondary phloem composed of usual elements, phloem fibres absent; in thick stem secondary cortex almost absent; secondary phloem well developed, consisting of usual elements; groups of stone cells and fibres scattered throughout this region; secondary xylem consists of usual elements; vessels solitary or 2-4 in groups having spiral thickening and bordered pits; fibres mostly aseptate but some septate with wide lumen; parenchyma paratracheal, a few in number; medullary rays 3-22 cells high and 1-4 cells wide; starch grains, simple as well as compound having 2-4 components measuring 3-11μ in dia., present in secondary cortex, phloem and xylem parenchyma and ray cells.

Powder – Crearnish-grey; shows fragments of lignified cork cells, thin-walled, parenchymatous cells, aseptate and a few septate fibre with wide lumen; vessels with spiral thickening and bordered pits, stone cells, simple, round to oval starch grains, measuring 3-1 μ in dia.

IDENTITY, PURITY AND STRENGTH

Foreign matter Not more than 2 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.2
Total ash Not more than 3 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.3
Acid-insoluble ash Not more than 0.3 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.4
Alcohol-soluble extractive Not less than 1 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.6
Water-soluble extractive Not less than 4 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.7

T.L.C. –

T. L C. of the alcoholic extract on Silica gel ‘G’ plate using Chloroform :
Methanol (95 : 5) shows under U.V. (366 nm) two fluorescent zones at Rf 0.39 and 048 (both blue) On exposure to Iodine vapour three spots appear at Rf 0.39, 0.48 and 0.85 (all yellow). On spraying with 5% Methanolic-Sulphuric acid reagent and heating the plate for about ten minutes at 105°C three spots appear at Rf 0.39, 0.48 and 0.85 (all violet)

CONSTITUENTS – – Lignans

PROPERTIES AND ACTION

Rasa : Madhura, Katu, Tikta, Kasaya
Guna : Guru
Virya : Usna
Vipaka : Madhura
Karma : Sramahara, Kaphahara, Medhya, Pacana, Pittahara, Vatahara, Visahara, Dipana, Bhedani, Virecanopaga

IMPORTANT FORMULATIONS – Karpuradi Kuzambu (Laghu), Candanasava, Dantadyarista, Usirasava

THERAPEUTIC USES – Sopha, Jvara, Daha, Trsna, Raktadosa, Visavikara, Arsa, Sula, Raktapitta, Bhrama, Sosa, Ama Sula

DOSE – 5-10 g. of the drug for decoction.

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GOJIHVA (Aerial Part)

Gojihva consists of dried leaf and stem portion of Onosma bracteatum Wall. (Fam. Boraginaceae); a perennial, hirsute or hispid herb, sparsely distributed in North Western Himalayas from Kashmir to Kumaon at altitudes of 3,500-4,500 m.

SYNONYMS

Sansk. : Darvipatra, Vrsajihva, Kharaparnini
Assam. : —
Beng. : Gojika Sak, Gojialata, Dadisha
Eng. : —
Guj. : Bhonpathari, Galajibhi
Hindi. : Gaujaban, Gojiya
Kan. : Shankha Huli, Aakalanalige, Gojaba
Mal. : Kozhuppu
Mar. : Govjaban, Paatharee
Ori. : Kharsan, Kharaptra
Punj. : Kazban
Tam. : Kharaptra, Dharviptra, Kozha
Tel. : Yeddunaluka
Urdu. : Gaozaban

DESCRIPTION

a) Macroscopic

Stem – Cut pieces available in 5-9 cm long and 3.2 to 4.7 cm in dia., flattened, erect, stout; rough due to white, hard, hispid hairs and cicatrices, and longitudinal wrinkles; colour greenish-yellow; fracture, short; odour and taste not characteristic.

Leaf – Lanceolate to ovate-lanceolate, 12-30 cm long, 1.5-3.5 cm broad, acuminate tubercle-based hispid hairs present on both surfaces; greenish to light yellow on top and white beneath.

b) Microscopic

Stem – shows single-layered epidermis, covered with thick cuticle, some epidermal cells elongate to form long, warty, tubercle-based unicellular hairs, cortex differentiated in two zones, 5-7 layered outer collenchyrna, 3-4 layered inner parenchymatous cells, consisting of thin-walled, round to oval cells; phloem composed of usual elements; phloem fibres absent; xylem consisting of usual elements, vessels mostly solitary or rarely 2-3 in groups having spiral thickening, and fibres and tracheids having blunt tips and simple pits; xylem ray not distinct: pith consisting of round, thin-walled, parenchymatous cells.

Leaf –
Midrib -single layered epidermis with thick cuticle and long warty, tubercle-based unicellular hairs present on both surfaces followed by 5-7 layers of collenchymatous and 3-4 layers parenchymatous cortical cells; vascular bundle situated centrally.

Lamina – isobilateral, single layered epidermis on either surface covered with thick cuticle, long warty, tubercle-based, simple, unicellular hairs present on both surfaces; palisade 2 layered, spongy parenchyma 8-10 layered, stomata paracytic

Powder – Greenish-brown; shows groups of oval to polygonal, thin-walled straight epidermal cells; spiral vessels; a few fibres entire or in pieces, elongated with blunt tips; long warty, tubercle-based unicellular hairs and a few paracytic stomata.

IDENTITY, PURITY AND STRENGTH

Foreign matter Not more than 2 Appendix 2.2.2
Total ash Not more than 26 Appendix 2.2.3
Acid-insoluble ash Not more than 4 Appendix 2.2.4
Alcohol-soluble extractive Not less than 1 Appendix 2.2.6

T.L.C. –

T.L.C. of the alcoholic extract on Silica gel ‘G’ plate using n-Butanol ; Acetic acid: Water (4 : 1 : 5) shows in visible light six spots at Rf. 0.38 (yellow), 0.55 (grey), 0.62, 0.69 (both yellow), 0.76 (grey) and 0.99 (green). Under UV (366 nm) six fluorescent zones at Rf. 0.30 (pale blue), 0.55 (violet), 0.62, 0.69 (both yellow), 0.76 (green) and 0.99 (red). On exposure to Iodine vapour eight spots appear at Rf. 0.29, 0.38, 0.46 (all yellow), 0.56 (grey), 0.62, 0.66 (both yellow), 0.76 and 0.99 (both grey). On spraying with Vanillin-Sulphuric acid reagent and heating the plate at 105°C for ten minutes, six spots appear at Rf. 0.29, 0.56, 0.62, 0.66, 0.76 and 0.99 (all violet).

CONSTITUENTS – Tannin and Sugars.

PROPERTIES AND ACTION

Rasa : Madhura, Tikta, Kasaya
Guna : Laghu
Virya : Sita
Vipaka : Madhura
Karma : Grahi, Hrdya, Kaphahara, Pittahara, Vatala

IMPORTANT FORMULATIONS – Manasa Mitra Vataka, Gojihvadi Kvatha

THERAPEUTIC USES – Raktapitta, Kustha, Jvara, Svasa, Kasa, Aruci, Prameha, Raktavikara,Vrana, Danta Roga

DOSE – 3-6 g. of the drug in powder form.

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GRANTHIPARNI (Root)

Granthiparni consists of root of Leonotis nepetaefolia R. Br. (Fam. Lamiaceae), an ornamental herb or shrub, 1.2 -1.8 m high, cultivated and naturalized throughout the hotter parts of the country.

SYNONYMS

Sansk. : Kakapuccha
Assam. : Granthika
Beng. : Hejurchei
Eng. : Knod Grass
Guj. : Hatisul
Hindi. : Gathivan
Kan. : —
Kash. : —
Mal. : —
Mar. : Dipmal
Ori. : —
Punj. : —
Tam. : —
Tel. : Ranathem
Urdu. : —

DESCRIPTION

a) Macroscopic

Root system well developed, numerous lateral roots arise from main root, about 0.8 cm in dia., secondary and tertiary roots thin and fibrous, greyish coloured, main root slightly brownish coloured with a few longitudinal furrows; fracture, hard and short; no characteristic odour and taste.

b) Microscopic

Mature root shows a thin bark and a very wide xylem; cork exfoliating, generally detached, where present, consists of a few layers of tangentially elongated compressed cells possessing brown contents; secondary cortex, a narrow zone, composed of 3-6 layers or more, rounded, irregular or tangentially elongated, thin- walled, parenchymatous cells having brown contents; secondary phloem consists of thin-walled cells of sieve elements; fibres absent; secondary xylem forms major part of root consisting of vessels, xylem fibres and xylem parenchyma; vessels more or less uniformly distributed throughout secondary xylem; vessels with bordered pits and of various shapes and sizes, a few having elongated projection at one or both ends; xylem fibres elongated, lignified with pointed ends with moderately wide lumen; xylem parenchyma rectangular or square in shape and pitted; medullary rays uni to triseriate, uni and biseriate rays being more common.

Powder – Brown; shows numerous parenchymatous cells of secondary cortex, a few fragments and entire xylem vessels with bordered pits, fibres and xylem parenchyma

IDENTITY, PURITY AND STRENGTH

Foreign matter Not more than 2 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.2
Total ash Not more than 5 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.3
Acid-insoluble ash Not more than 1 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.4
Alcohol-soluble extractive Not less than 2 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.6
Water-soluble extractive Not less than 4 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.7

T.L.C. –

T.L.C. of the alcoholic extract on Silica gel ‘G’ plate using Toluene: Ethylacetate (9 : 1) on exposure to Iodine vapour shows six spots at Rf. 0.04, 0.05, 0.08, 0.19, 0.23 and 0.35 (all yellow). On spraying with Vanillin Sulphuric acid reagent and heating the plate for ten minutes at 110°C three spots appear at Rf. 0.04, 0.08 and 0.35 (all violet).

CONSTITUENTS – Sterols.

PROPERTIES AND ACTION

Rasa : Tikta
Guna : Laghu, Tiksna
Virya : Usna
Vipaka : Katu
Karma : Dipana, Kaphavatahara, Daurgandhyanasana

IMPORTANT FORMULATIONS – Brhat Guduci Taila, Mrtasanjivani Sura

THERAPEUTIC USES – Swasa, Kandu, Visa

DOSE – 5-10 g. of the drug in powder form.

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HAMSAPADI (Whole Plant)

Hamsapadi consists of dried whole plant of Adiantum lunulatum Burm. (Fam. Polypodiaceae); a fern found throughout moist places, generally on the slopes of hills, ascending up to an elevation of about 1370 m.

SYNONYMS

Sansk. : Hamsapadi, Raktapadi, Kitamata, Tripadika
Assam. : Sharul Arj, Sharujeena, Parsiyav
Beng. : Kali Jhat
Eng. : Maiden Hair
Guj. : Hansaraja
Hindi. : Hanspadee, Hansaraj
Kan. : Hamsapadi
Kash. : —
Mal. : —
Mar. : Hamsaraj
Ori. : —
Punj. : Hamsaraj
Tam. : —
Tel. : Hamsapadi
Urdu. : —

DESCRIPTION

a) Macroscopic

Root – Very thin, fibrous, about 10-15 cm long, reddish-black in colour, soft and branched.

Rhizome – Long, upto 2 mm thick, glabrous, prostrate or erect, dark reddish-brown or a black in colour.

Frond – Rachis shiny black, simply pinnate, pinna roughly lunulate, subdimidiate, lower edge nearly in line and oblique with its black shiny petiole, upper edge bluntly rounded and more or less lobed, a few sori in a continuous line on the under surface along the edge, with a false indusium.

b) Microscopic

Root mature root shows single layered epidermis consisting of thin-walled, small and irregular cells, followed by 3-4 layers of large thick-walled, polygonal, parenchymatous cells of cortex; endodermis single layered composed of square or somewhat rounded cells; pericycle single layered composed of square shaped sclerenchymatous thick and dark reddish-brown wall; pericycle encloses a diarch stele with a few elements of xylem and phloem.

Rhizome – Mature rhizome consists of thick walled, rectangular, small cells of epidermis, followed by 3-4 layers of sclerenchymatous cells of hypodermis, composed of thickwalled cells; cortex wide, made up of thin-walled, rounded or oval-shaped parenchymatous cells, enclosing an amphiphloic siphonostele; endodermis present; vascular bundle with xylem consisting protoxylem towards both ends and metaxylem in centre; phloem surrounds the xylem externally and also internally; tracheid with scalariform to reticulate thickening present; a central pith consists of thick-walled cells, and fibres, and is sclerenchymatous.

Frond-
Petiole – Shows concave-convex outline; epidermis single layered; hypodermis consists of 2 or 3 layers, lignified, thick-walled, sclerenchymatous cells; ground tissue composed of oval to polygonal, thin-walled parenchymatous cells; stele single, slightly triangular in shape, located centrally and surrounded by peri cycle and endodermis.

Pinnule – Shows single layered epidermis on either surface; mesophyll round to oval in shape and not differentiated into palisade and spongy parenchyma; a few stomata present only on lower surface; a few sori also seen.

Powder – Dark reddish-brown in colour; shows dark reddish-brown pieces of sclerenchymatous cells and light coloured crushed cells of cortex, a few tracheids having reticulate thickening, fibres and a few spores.

IDENTITY, PURITY AND STRENGTH

Foreign matter Not more than 2 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.2
Total ash Not more than 16 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.3
Acid-insoluble ash Not more than 11 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.4
Alcohol-soluble extractive Not less than 3 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.6
Water-soluble extractive Not less than 5 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.7

T.L.C. –

T.L.C. of the alcoholic extract on Silica gel ‘G’ plate using n-Butanol : Acetic acid: Water (4 :1 : 5) shows under UV (366 nm) two fluorescent zones at Rf. 0.80 and 0.96 (both blue). On exposure to Iodine vapour three spots appear at Rf. 0.19, 0.30 and 0.80 (all yellow). On spraying with 5% Methanolic-Sulphuric acid reagent and heating the plate for about ten minutes at 1l0°C three spots appear at Rf. 0.19, 0.30 and 0.80 (all yellowish brown).

PROPERTIES AND ACTION

Rasa : Tikta, Kasaya
Guna : Guru
Virya : Sita
Vipaka : Katu
Karma : Visaghna, Raktavikarahrta

IMPORTANT FORMULATIONS – Madhuyastyadi Taila, Manasa Mitra Vataka, Mukta Paμcamrta Rasa, Svarnabhupati Rasa, Kalakuta Rasa.

THERAPEUTIC USES – Visarpa, Vrana, Daha, Atisara, Luta Visa, Bhuta Graha, Kaksa Sphota, Rakta Vikara

DOSE – 1-3 g.

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HAPUSA (Fruit)

Hapusa consists of dried fruit of Juniperus communis Linn (Fam. Cupressaceae); a dense, more or less procumbent shrub, rarely a small tree, found in the Himalayas from Kumaon westwards at an altitude of 1500-4250 m.

SYNONYMS

Sansk. : Havusa, Matsyagandha
Assam. : Arar, Abahal, Habbul
Beng. : Hayusha
Eng. : Juniper Berry, Common Juniper
Guj. : Palash
Hindi. : Havuber, Havubair
Kan. : Padma Beeja
Kash. : —
Mal. : —
Mar. : Hosh
Ori. : —
Punj. : Havulber
Tam. : —
Tel. : Hapusha
Urdu. : Abhal, Aarar

DESCRIPTION

a) Macroscopic

Fruit sub-spherical, berry like, purplish-black, occasionally showing a ‘bloom’, about 0.5-1.0 cm in dia., apex shows triradiate mark and.depression indicating the suture of three fleshy-bracts; at the base are six, small, pointed, bracts arranged in 2 whorls, but occasionally 3 or 4 whorls present; three hard, triangular seeds are embedded in the fleshy mesocarp, each with a woody testa bearing large partly sunk oily glands; odour terebinthine and taste bitter.

b) Microscopic

Outer layer of fruit shows 3-4, large, cubic or tabular cells having thick, brown porous walls externally covered by single layered, colourless cuticle; sarcocarp consists of large, elliptical, thin-walled, loosely coherent cells, containing drops of essential oil and prismatic crystals of calcium oxalate; oval to elongated, elliptical, triangular or irregular shaped cells abundant in this region; seed coat shows 2 or 3 layers of tabular, thin-walled cells covered externally by a thin cuticle and followed internally by a wide zone of thick-walled polygonal sclerenchymatous cells; endosperm and embryo not distinct.

Powder – Brown; shows oval to elongated, elliptical and irregular shaped, thick-walled stone cells; rectangular to hexagonal, straight, thick walled epidermal cells in surface view; prismatic crystals of calcium oxalate and oil globules.

IDENTITY, PURITY AND STRENGTH

Foreign matter Not more than 1 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.2
Total ash Not more than 5 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.3
Acid-insoluble ash Not more than 0.5 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.4
Alcohol-soluble extractive Not less than 12 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.6
Water-soluble extractive Not less than 9 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.7

T.L.C. –

T.L.C. of the alcoholic extract on Silica gel ‘G’ plate using Toluene: Ethylacetate (9 : 1) shows under UV (366 nm) three fluorescent zones at Rf. 0.11 (light blue), 0.20 (light blue) and 0.58 (blue). On exposure to Iodine vapour ten spots appear at Rf. 0.17, 0.25, 0.30, 0.36, 0.46, 0.58, 0.64, 0.67, 0.90 and 0.96 (all yellow). On spraying with Vanillin Sulphuric acid and heating the plate for ten minutes at 110°C twelve spots appear at Rf. 0.11, 0.17, 0.25, 0.30 (all brown), 0.36 (light brown), 0.46, 0.52 (both brown), 0.58 (dirty yellow), 0.64 (brown), 0.73 (light brown), 0.90 (light brown) and 0.96 (brown).

CONSTITUENTS – Essential Oil and Flavonoids.

PROPERTIES AND ACTION

Rasa : Katu, Tikta, Kasaya
Guna : Guru, Mrdu
Virya : Usna
Vipaka : Katu
Karma : Kaphanasaka, Visaghna, Agnidipaka, Vatanasaka

IMPORTANT FORMULATIONS – Kumaryasava, Saptavinsitika Guggulu, Dadhika Ghrta, Narayana Curna, Trayodasanga, Guggulu, Pradarantaka Lauha, Nityananda Rasa

THERAPEUTIC USES – Pittodara, Arsa, Grahani, Gulma, Sula, Krmi, Vatodara, Pliharoga

DOSE – 2-6 g. in powder form.

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INDRAVARUNI (Fruit)

Indravaruni consists of dried/peeled cut pieces of the fruit of Citrullus colocynthis Schrad. (Fam. Cucurbitaceae); an annual or perennial creeper growing wild in the warm, arid and sandy tracts of North West, Central and Southern parts of the country.

SYNONYMS

Sansk. : Gavaksi, Indravalli, Aendri
Assam. : Gavadani
Beng. : Rakhal
Eng. : Colocynth
Guj. : Indrayan
Hindi. : Indrayan
Kan. : Havumekke
Kash. : —
Mal. : Kattu Vellarikkai, Valiya Pekkummatti
Mar. : Endrayana
Ori. : Gothakakudi, Indrayanalata, Garukhiya
Punj. : Indrayana
Tam. : Peitummatti
Tel. : Chedupuchcha, Peikummatti
Urdu. : Hanjal

DESCRIPTION

a) Macroscopic

White or pale yellowish-white, light, pithy fragments upto about 6 cm long and 2 cm thick; externally convex with ridges and flattened areas 5-10 mm wide reulting from peeling with a knife; internally irregularly concave and showing numerous ovoid depressions about 10 mm long, left by the removal of the seeds; pulp bitter, seeds flattened, ovoid, yellowish-white to dark brown, about 7 x 5 x 2 mm; endosperm narrow and oily; cotyledons 2, oily; radicle, small; epicarp woody, about I mm thick, buff coloured externally; odourless; taste, intensely bitter.

b) Microscopic

Pulp consists of large, thin-walled, pitted parenchyma of rounded cells showing oval, flat, pitted areas where they are in contact with many slender bicollateral vascular strands having spiral vessels and occasional associated latex vessels; epicarp, where present, with epidermis of radially elongated cells having thick outer walls and thin inner walls and partially thickened anticlinal walls with occasional stomata of the anomocytic type; the adjacent parenchymatous layer about 15 cells thick, and an inner layer of sclereids, the outer sclereids very thick, smaller, about 15 to 30 μ in diameter, isodiaroetric and the inner sclereids layer upto about 60 μ, radially elongated, with thinner walls; seed, testa with outer epidermis of thick-walled unlignified palisade cells having ertical strips of thickening on the anticlinal walls, with inner layers of very thickwalled, striated, pitted, lignified sclereids, and an inner most layer of sclereids with reticulately thickened walls; endosperm and cotyledons parenchymatous with fixed oil and aleurone grains upto 7 μ in diameter.

Powder – Yellowish-brown; shows, groups of pitted parenchymatous cells, annular and spiral vessels, stone cells, oil globules and aleurone grains measuring up to 7 μ dia.

IDENTITY, PURITY AND STRENGTH

Foreign matter Not more than 2 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.2
Total ash Not more than 14 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.3
Acid-insoluble ash Not more than 7 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.4
Light Petroleum solublematter On continuous extraction with light petroleum (b.p. 40° to 60°) and drying at 100°C, not more than 3.0 percent.

T.L.C. –

T.L.C. of the alcoholic extract on Silica gel ‘G’ plate using n-Butanol : Acetic acid: Water (4: 1 :5) shows under U.V. (366 nm) two fluorescent zones at Rf. 0.88 (light blue) and 0.98 (yellow). On exposure to Iodine vapour two spots appear at Rf. 0.88 and 0.98 (both yellow). On spraying with 5% Methanolic-Phosphomolybdic acid reagent and heating the plate for ten minutes at 105°C four spots appear at Rf. 0.65 (blue), 0.84 (blue), 0.96 (blue) and 0.98 (dark blue).

CONSTITUENTS – Resins – Resinous Glycosides (Colocynthin and Colocynthitin), A Phytosterol Glycoside, Citrullol, Pectin and Albuminoids, Cucurbitacins – Cucurbitacin E & I.

PROPERTIES AND ACTION

Rasa : Tikta
Guna : Laghu, Ruksa, Tiksna
Virya : Usna
Vipaka : Katu
Karma : Krmighna, Vamaka, Visahara, Recana, Slesmahara

IMPORTANT FORMULATIONS – Javaraghni Gutika (II)

THERAPEUTIC USES – Krmiroga, Kamala, Svasa, Kasa, Kusta, Gulma, Udararoga

DOSE – 0.125 – 0.5 g. of powder.
0.25 – 0.5 g. of powder .

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INDRAYAVA (Seed)

Indrayava consists of dried seeds of Holarrhena antidysenterica Wall. (Fam. Apocynacem); a small to medium sized tree, found throughout India.

SYNONYMS

Sansk : Bhadra Yava, Kalinga, Sakra, Vatsaka
Assam : Dudhkuri
Beng : Kurchi
Eng : Ester Tree, Conessi Seeds
Guj : Kuda, Kudo
Hindi : Indraju, Kurchi, Kuraiya
Kan : Kodasige Beeja
Kash : —
Mal : Kutakappala
Mar : Kudayache Beej
Ori : Kurei, Keruan
Punj : Indrajau, Kaurasakh, Kura
Tam : Kudasapalai
Tel : Kodisapala Vittulu, Palakodisa-Vittulu
Urdu : Tukhm-e-Kurchi, Indarjao Talkh

DESCRIPTION

a) Macroscopic

Seeds compressed, linear, or oblong, elongated, margins curved inside, one side convex and other side concave with a longitudinal striation; 1-2 cm long, 0.2-0.3 cm thick, surface light yellowish- brown; odour, not distinct; taste, bitter.

b) Microscopic

Seed shows 2-3 layered integument consisting of single layered, rounded, oval or radially elongated, thick-walled, reddish-brown parenchymatous cells, some of them elongate outwards forming small papillose structure, covered by a few unicellular, and uniseriate, multicellular types of trichomes; below this layer, 1 or 2 layers of small rounded or irregular cells, a few having single prismatic crystals of calcium oxalate, followed by a few layers of collapsed, brown coloured cells; endosperm 4-6 layered consisting of rounded, oval or polygonal, thin-walled, parenchymatous cells, containing aleurone grains; most of the cells also contain oil globules; embryo having conical radicle and two foliaceous, convoluted cotyledons consisting of single layered tabular epidermal cells towards dorsal side and rectangular cells towards ventral side, and externally covered with cuticle; rest of the cotyledon cells composed of rounded, oval or rectangular parenchymatous cells containing rosette crystals of calcium oxalate and oil globules.

Powder – Light yellowish-brown; shows fragments of endosperm, pigment cells, oil globules, prismatic and rosette crystals of calcium oxalate.

IDENTITY, PURITY AND STRENGTH

Foreign matter Not more than 2 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.2
Total ash Not more than 8 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.3
Acid-insoluble ash Not more than 3 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.4
Alcohol-soluble extractive Not less than 12 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.6

T.L.C. –

T.L.C. of the alcoholic extract on Silica gel ‘G’ plate using Chloroform: Methanol (1:1) shows under U.V. (366 nm) four fluorescent zones at Rf. 0.67, 0.72, 0.76 and 0.93 (all blue). On spraying with Dragendorff reagent followed by 5% Methanolic-Sulphuric acid reagent five spots appear at Rf. 0.15, 0.28, 0.43, 0.59 and 0.67 (all orange).

CONSTITUENTS – Alkaloids -Steroidal Alkaloid, Conessine etc., Fats, Tannin and Resin.

PROPERTIES AND ACTION

Rasa : Katu, Tikta
Guna : Laghu, Ruksa
Virya : Sita
Vipaka : Katu
Karma : Dipana, Sangrahi, Tridosasamaka

IMPORTANT FORMULATIONS – Paμca Nimba Curna, Palasa Bijadi Curna, Laghu Gangadhara Curna, Krmi Kuthara Rasa, Piyusavalli Rasa, Jvaraghni Gutika, Siddha Pranesvara Rasa, Ahiphenasava

THERAPEUTIC USES – Atisara, Kusta, Jvaratisara, Krmi, Visarpa, Grahani,Raktatisara, Sula, Chardi, Tvakroga, Daha

DOSE – 3-6 g. (Curna).
20-30 g. (Decoction).

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ISVARI (Root)

Isvari consists of dried root of Aristolochia indica Linn, (Fam. Aristolochiacem); a perennial shrubby, twiner, found throughout the low hills and plains of India,

SYNONYMS

Sansk. : Gandhnakuli, Nagadamani
Assam. : Jarvande
Beng. : Isheri
Eng. : Indian Birthwort, Serpent Root
Guj. : Ruhimool, Iswarimool
Hindi. : Ishwari
Kan. : Ishwari Beru, Toppalu
Kash. : —
Mal. : Karaleyan
Mar. : Sapsan
Ori. : Gopikaron
Punj. : —
Tam. : Perumarundu, Ichchuramule
Tel. : Iswari, Nallaiswari
Urdu. : Zarawand Hindi

DESCRIPTION

a) Macroscopic

Root considerably long, cylindrical, a few irregularly bent; 2-10 mm in dia; surface almost smooth with fine longitudinal wrinkles and transverse cracks; external surface, light greyish-brown; inner whitish; fracture, short and splintery; odour, camphoraceous; taste, strongly bitter.

b) Microscopic

Cork 8-10 layers, composed of tabular, thin-walled cells excepting the outer most layer, having thick-walled cells externally and filled with brownish content; cork cambium single layered; secondary cortex 15 to 17 layers of thin-walled, somewhat rounded and isodiametric cells in the outer region but tangentially elongated in the inner region; plenty of simple, round to oval starch grains measuring 5-18 μ in dia. and compound starch grains having 2-4 components measuring 10-15 μ in dia. and oil globules present in a few cells; in the middle region stone cells round, rectangular, oval or elongated present in small irregular patches having simple pits and radiating canals; centre occupied by xylem, split into strips of radiating arms by wedgeshaped masses of parenchyma; each xylem arm is capped by thin patches of phloem consisting of sieve elements and phloem parenchyma, phloem fibres, and occasionally stone cells also found in this region; a ring of cambium present between phloem and xylem; xylem consists of large vessels, tracheids, fibres tracheids and parenchyma, all being lignified; in older roots, tyloses formation takes place in vessels; medullary rays 8 to l0 in number, multiseriate and dilating towards periphery and alternating with radiating arms of wood; scattered group of stone cells present in a few wider rays; micro-crystals with a few appearing as elongated small prisms and unaffected by acids, are present in a few cortical and ray cells.

Powder – Brownish-yellow; fragments of cork cells, very few, oval to rectangular, lignified, thick-walled stone cells having distinct striations with narrow lumen, vessels with spiral thickenings, non-lignified, thick-walled tracheids, numerous simple, round to oval, starch grains measuring 5-18 μ in dia., and compound grains having 2 to 4 components, measuring 10 – 15 μ in dia., a few crystals and oil globules

IDENTITY, PURITY AND STRENGTH

Foreign matter Not more than 2 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.2
Total ash Not more than 4 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.3
Acid-insoluble ash Not more than 1 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.4
Alcohol-soluble extractive Not less than 2 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.6
Water-soluble extractive Not less than 3 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.7

T.L.C. –

T.L.C. of the alcoholic extract on Silica gel ‘G’ plate using Toluene. Ethylacetate (85 : 15) shows under UV (366 nm) four fluorescent zones at Rf 0.21, 0.60 (both blue), 0.89 (red), 0.96 (blue). On exposure to Iodine vapour six spots appear at Rf 0.11, 0.21, 0.50, 0.63, 0.96 and 0.98 (all yellow) On spraying with Vanillin-Sulphuric acid reagent and heating the plate for ten minutes at 110°C three spots appear at Rf 0.14, 0.63 (both violet) and 0.96 (brown)

CONSTITUENTS – Alkaloids, Essential Oils, Bitter Principles and Fixed Oil.

PROPERTIES AND ACTION

Rasa : Katu, Tikta, Kasaya
Guna : Laghu, Ruksa
Virya : Usna
Vipaka : Katu
Karma : Kaphavatasamaka, Sothahara, Raksoghna, Grahabadhaghna

IMPORTANT FORMULATIONS – Mahavisagarbha Taila, Gorocanadi Gutika

THERAPEUTIC USES – Sarpavisa, Luta Visa, Jalagardabha, Vrscikavisa, Jvara, Krmi, Vrana

DOSE – 1-2 g. (For external use also).

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JATI (Leaf)

Jati consists of dried leaves of Jasminum officinale Linn. (Fam. Oleacem); a large climbing shrub with dark green twigs and pinnate leaves, found in Kashmir at an altitude of 900 – 2700 m and cultivated throughout the country.

SYNONYMS

Sansk : Malati
Assam : Yasmeen
Beng : Chamelee
Eng : Jasmine
Guj : Chamelee
Hindi : Chamelee
Kan : Jati Maltiga, Sanna Jati Mallige
Kash : —
Mal : Pichi
Mar : Chamelee
Ori : —
Punj : Chamelee
Tam : Pichi, Jatimalli
Tel : Jati, Sannajati
Urdu : Chameli, Yasmeen

DESCRIPTION

a) Macroscopic

Leaf single or in groups of 2-7 leaflets, upto 7.5 cm long and upto 2.5 cm broad; imparipinnately compound; terminal leaflet larger; ovate or lanceolate, acuminate; lateral leaflets shorter, acute, sessile or shortly petiolate; brownish-green; taste, bitter

b) Microscopic

Rachis – Rachis shows more or less convex outline with two lateral wings; epidermis single layered covered by thick cuticle; hairs mostly unicellular with pointed apex, glandular rarely found only on the upper surface; collenchyma 2 – 5 layered; pericycle represented by slightly lignified small fibre groups; vascular bundles three, median crescent-shaped, small accessory bundle present in each wing.

Midrib – shows similar structure as rachis; 3 – 5 layers of collenchymatous cells towards lower surface; pericycle present in the form of non-lignified fibre groups; vascular bundle single and crescent-shaped.

Lamina – shows dorsiventral structure, epidermis single layered on either side, covered by a thick striated cuticle; hairs as in rachis; palisade 1- 2 layered; spongy parenchyma 4-6 layers; stomata anomocytic only in lower surface.

Powder – Yellowish-green; shows palisade and spongy parenchyma, unicellular hairs, fibres and vessels with spiral thickening, polygonal epidermal cells and anomocytic stomata in surface view.

IDENTITY, PURITY AND STRENGTH

Foreign matter Not more than 2 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.2
Total ash Not more than 6 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.3
Acid-insoluble ash Not more than 0.5 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.4
Alcohol-soluble extractive Not less than 18 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.6
Water-soluble extractive Not less than 25 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.7

T.L.C. –

T.L.C. of the alcoholic extract on Silica gel ‘G’ plate using Toluene. Ethylacetate (9 :1) shows under UV (366 nm) three fluorescent zones at Rf 0.44 (blue), 0.52 (light blue) and 0.91 (blue). On exposure to Iodine vapours ten spots appear at Rf. 0.08, 0.18, 0.38, 0.44, 0.49, 0.53, 0.59, 0.67, 0.81 and 0.91 (all yellow). On spraying with Dragendorff reagent followed by 5% Methanolic-Sulphuric acid reagent four spots appear at Rf. 0.08, 0.18 (both orange), 0.44 and 0.91 (both light orange). On spraying with Vanillin-Sulphuric acid reagent and heating the plate for ten minutes at 110°C many spots of brown, yellow, blue and violet colour appear from the point of application to the solvent front.

CONSTITUENTS – Resin, Salicylic Acid, Alkaloid (Jasminine) and Essential Oil.

PROPERTIES AND ACTION

Rasa : Tikta, Kasaya
Guna : Laghu, Mrdu, Snigdha
Virya : Usna
Vipaka : Katu
Karma : Caksusya, Sirovirecana

IMPORTANT FORMULATIONS – Jatyadi Taila, Jatyadi Ghrta, Vasanta Kusumakara Rasa

THERAPEUTIC USES – Siroroga, Aksiroga, Visaroga, Kustha Vrana, Arsa, Mukhapaka, Putikarna, Stana Sotha, Raktavikara

DOSE – 10-20 g. of powder for decoction.

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KADALI (Rhizome)

Kadali consists of fresh rhizome of Musa paradisiaca Linn. (Fam. Musacem); plant found cultivated throughout India, upto 1200 m.

SYNONYMS

Sansk. : Varana, Ambusara, Rambha
Assam. : Kal, Talha
Beng. : Kela, Kala, Kanch Kala, Kodali
Eng. : Banana
Guj. : Kela
Hindi. : Kela
Kan. : Bale Gadde
Kash. : —
Mal. : Vazha
Mar. : Kela
Ori. : Kadali, Kadila
Punj. : Kela
Tam. : Vazhai
Tel. : Arati Gadda
Urdu. : Kela

DESCRIPTION

a) Macroscopic

Drug available in 0.1-4 cm thick, transversely cut pieces, pinkish-brown to greyish-brown, occasionally attached with a few roots.

T.L.C. –

T.L.C. of the alcoholic extract on Silica gel ‘G’ plate using Toluene: Ethylacetate (9 : 1) shows under U.V. (366 nm) two fluorescent zones at Rf 0.25 (orange) and 0.33 (green). On exposure to Iodine vapour three spots appear at Rf. 0.11, 0.25 and 0.73 (all yellow).

CONSTITUENTS – Fixed Oil and 4 α -Methyl Sterol Ketone.

PROPERTIES AND ACTION

Rasa : Madhura, Kasaya
Guna : Sita, Guru, Ruksa
Virya : Sita
Vipaka : Madhura
Karma : Balya, Dipana, Kaphahara, Kesya, Pittahara, Rucya

IMPORTANT FORMULATIONS – Abhraka Bhasma (Sataputi), Ksara Taila

THERAPEUTIC USES – Krmi, Kustha, Karna Sula, Somaroga, Amlapitta, Daha, Raktavikara, Rajodosa, Mutrakrcchra

DOSE – 10-20 g. in powder form.
10-20 ml in juice form.

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KAKAJANGHA (Root)

Kakajangha consists of dried root of Peristrophe bicalyculala Nees (Fam. Acanthacem) an erect, hispid, herb or undershrub, 60-180 cm high found in forest undergrowth, hedges and waste lands almost throughout the country.

SYNONYMS

Sansk : Nadikanta, Kakatikta, Pracibala, Sulomasa
Assam : —
Beng : Nasabhaga, Naskaga
Eng : —
Guj : Kaliadhedi, Kariadhedi, Lasiadhedi
Hindi : Atrilal, Itrelal, Masi, Nasbhanga, Kakajangha
Kan : Cibigid, Cibirsoppu
Kash : —
Mal : —
Mar : Chatipittapapada, Ramkirayat, Pitpapra
Ori : —
Punj : —
Tam : Chebisa
Tel : Chibira
Urdu : —

DESCRIPTION

a) Macroscopic

Root occurs upto 0.7 cm thick, and upto 4 cm long cylindrical with branched lateral roots, dirty brown; fracture, fibrous; odour and taste not characteristic.

b) Microscopic

Shows poorly developed cork, consisting of 2-4 layers of tangentially elonated, thin-walled cells; where cork is not developed, epidermis present, consisting of single layered cells; secondary cortex narrow, consisting of 5-7 layers of elliptical or tangentially elongated, thin-walled, parenchymatous cells; secondary phloem narrow, consisting of sieve elements and parenchyma; phloem rays not distinct; secondary xylem consisting of pitted vessels, fibres, tracheids and parenchyma; vessels occur singly or in groups of 2-4 or more and arranged radially throughout secondary xylem; vessels with simple pits, tracheids thick-walled and lignified.

Powder – Dirty-brown; shows parenchymatous cells, aseptate fibres and pitted vessels.

IDENTITY, PURITY AND STRENGTH

Foreign matter Not more than 2 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.2
Total ash Not more than 9 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.3
Acid-insoluble ash Not more than 2 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.4
Alcohol-soluble extractive Not less than 3 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.6
Water-soluble extractive Not less than 7 Per cent, Appendix 2.2.7

T.L.C. –

T.L.C. of the alcoholic extract on Silica gel ‘G’ plate using Toluene: Ethylacetate (93:7) shows under U.V. (366 nm) five fluorescent zones at Rf. 0.15, 0.30, 0.52, 0.90 and 0.98 (all light blue). On exposure to Iodine vapour six spots appear at Rf. 0.07, 0.15, 0.30, 0.43, 0.57 and 0.98 (all yellow). On spraying with Vanillin-Sulphuric acid reagent and heating the plate for ten minutes at 110°C five spots appear at Rf. 0.07, 0.30, 0.43, 0.57 and 0.98 (all violet).

CONSTITUENTS – Volatile Oil.

PROPERTIES AND ACTION

Rasa : Tikta, Kasaya
Guna : Picchila, Sara
Virya : Sita
Vipaka : Katu
Karma : Kaphahara, Pittahara, Varnya

IMPORTANT FORMULATIONS – Aragvadhadi Kvatha Curna

THERAPEUTIC USES – Vrana, Jvara, Raktapitta, Kandu, Krmi, Kustha, Raktavikara, Visa Vikara, Siddhma, Slipada, Balagraha, Aikahikjvara, Badhirya, Anidra, Rajayjaksma, Pradara, Dantkrimi, Sarpvisa

DOSE – 1-5 g. in powder form.

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