PREFACE INTRODUCTION Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, Department of AYUSH, New Delhi intends to publish Ayurveda Research Digest (Quarterly). The main objective of this publication is to disseminate the research information/ citation about research articles on Ayurveda and related fields published in various journals/magazines subscribed by the Council as well as free on- line journals and complementary issues received by the Council. SCOPE This issue covers more than 400 articles on Ayurveda and related sciences which have been broadly classified under various subjects viz. Basic & Fundamental Studies, Clinical studies, Drug research, Epigraphical studies, History of medicine, Homoeopathy, Literary research, Medicinal plants, Naturopathy & Yoga, Tribal health care/ Ethnomedicine, Botany, Drug Review, Drug Standardization, Quality Control , Haemorroides, Microbiology, Phytochemistry, , Pharmacology , Vaterinery, Tribal Health Care, Etc. ARRANGEMENT OF DATA The articles are indexed under subject, which have been arranged alphabetically. Under each subject/ subtopics, the entries are arranged alphabetically by Author. Arrangement of each entry is as follows: Subject/ sub topic Name of the Authors (seperated by ,) (last name first) .Title of the article.Title of the journal in italic.Year of the journal;Vol of the journal(issue of the journal within bracket):pages of the journal. If online, URL of the journal mentioned. JOURNALS INDEXED This Research Digest consists the recent issue(s) of following journals: subscribed by CCRAS and by the Units of CCRAS.
Transcript
PREFACE
INTRODUCTION
Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, Department of AYUSH, New Delhi intends to publish Ayurveda Research Digest (Quarterly). The main objective of this publication is to disseminate the research information/ citation about research articles on Ayurveda and related fields published in various journals/magazines subscribed by the Council as well as free on-line journals and complementary issues received by the Council.
SCOPE
This issue covers more than 400 articles on Ayurveda and related sciences which have been broadly classified under various subjects viz. Basic & Fundamental Studies, Clinical studies, Drug research, Epigraphical studies, History of medicine, Homoeopathy, Literary research, Medicinal plants, Naturopathy & Yoga, Tribal health care/ Ethnomedicine, Botany, Drug Review, Drug Standardization, Quality Control , Haemorroides, Microbiology, Phytochemistry, , Pharmacology , Vaterinery, Tribal Health Care, Etc.
ARRANGEMENT OF DATA
The articles are indexed under subject, which have been arranged alphabetically. Under each subject/ subtopics, the entries are arranged alphabetically by Author.
Arrangement of each entry is as follows:
Subject/ sub topic
Name of the Authors (seperated by ,) (last name first) .Title of the article.Title of the journal in italic.Year of the journal;Vol of the journal(issue of the journal within bracket):pages of the journal. If online, URL of the journal mentioned.
JOURNALS INDEXED
This Research Digest consists the recent issue(s) of following journals: subscribed by CCRAS and by the Units of CCRAS.
1. Adv Exp Med Biol
2. Afr J Tradit Complement Altern Med
3. AIDS Res Ther
4. Altern Med Rev
5. Altern Ther Health Med
6. Am J Cardiol
7. Anal Chim Acta
8. Anal Sci
9. Andrologia
10. Anim Reprod Sci
11. Ann Intern Med
12. Antiviral Res
13. Asian J Androl
14. Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull
15. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol
16. Biochem Pharmacol
17. Biofactors
18. Bioinformation
19. Biol Trace Elem Res
20. BMC Cancer
21. BMC Complement Altern Med
22. BMC Public Health
23. Br J Nurs
24. Breast Cancer Res Treat
25. Bull Environ Contam Toxicol
26. Bull Indian Inst Hist Med Hyderabad
27. Cancer Lett
28. Cancer Res
29. Cancer Sci
30. Carcinogenesis
31. Cell Biochem Funct
32. Cell Mol Life Sci
33. Chang Gung Med J
34. Chem Biodivers
35. Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo)
36. Chin J Integr Med
37. Clin Exp Rheumatol
38. Cochrane Database Syst Rev
39. Comp Med East West
40. Complement Ther Med
41. Complement Ther Nurs Midwifery
42. Cult Med Psychiatry
43. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep
44. Curr Opin Psychiatry
45. Curr Pharm Des
46. Current Science.
47. Drug Metabol Drug Interact
48. Drug Saf
49. Drugs Exp Clin Res
50. Emerg Med Clin North Am
51. Environ Health Perspect
52. Environ Monit Assess
53. Ethn Dis
54. Ethn Health
55. Etnobotany.
56. Eur J Pharmacol
57. Evid BasedComplement Alternat Med
58. Exp Gerontol
59. Expert Opin Ther Targets.
60. Fitoterapia
61. Food Chem Toxicol.
62. Gen Pharmacol
63. Health Policy
64. Hindustan Antibiot Bull
65. Holist Nurs Pract
66. Immunobiology
67. Indian J Biochem Biophys
68. Indian J Cancer.
69. Indian J Dent Res
70. Indian J ExpBiol.
71. Indian J Med Res
72. Indian J Pediatr
73. Indian J Pharm Sci.
74. Indian J Physiol Pharmacol
75. Indian Journal of Natural Products.
76. InflammoPharmacology
77. Int Braz J Urol
78. Int ImmunoPharmacol
79. Int J Ayurveda Res
80. Int J Clin Exp Hypn
81. Int J Low Extrem Wounds
82. Int J Oncol
83. Int J Tuberc Lung Dis
84. Issues Ment Health Nurs
85. J Altern Complement Med
86. J Asian Nat Prod Res
87. J Assoc Physicians India
88. J Basic Clin Physiol Pharmacol
89. J Biochem Mol Toxicol
90. J Biosoc Sci
91. J Cancer Res Ther
92. J Clin PsychoPharmacol
93. J Ethnobiol Ethnomed
94. J EthnoPharmacol.
95. J Exp Clin Cancer Res
96. J Gerontol Nurs
97. J Herb Pharmacother.
98. J Indian Med Assoc
99. J Med Assoc Thai
100. J Med Biogr
101. J Med Food
102. J Nat Med
103. J Nat Prod
104. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry
105. J Periodontol
106. J Pharm Biomed Anal
107. J Pharm Pharmacol
108. J Pharmacol Exp Ther
109. J Postgrad Med
110. J Rehabil Med
111. J Rheumatol
112. J Soc Integr Oncol
113. J Surg Res
114. J Toxicol Sci
115. J Transl Med
116. J Vector Borne Dis.
117. J. Biosci
118. JAMA
119. Journal of AOAC INTERNATIONAL
120. Lancet
121. Lymphology
122. Malays J Reprod Health
123. Med Anthropol Q
124. Med Ges Gesch
125. Med Hypotheses
126. Methods Find Exp Clin Pharmacol
127. Mol Cancer Ther
128. Molecules
129. Mutat Res
130. N Biotechnol
131. Nat Prod Commun
132. Nat Prod Rep
133. Nat Prod Res
134. Nat Rev Nephrol
135. Neurochem Res
136. Neurotoxicology
137. Nutr Clin Pract
138. Orv Hetil
139. Parasitol Res
140. Parkinsonism Relat Disord
141. Pharm Biol
142. Pharm Res
143. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf
144. Pharmacol Biochem Behav
145. Pharmacol Res
146. Pharmazie
147. Physiol Plant
148. Phytochem Anal
149. Phytochemistry
150. Phytomedicine
151. Phytother Res
152. Plant Foods Hum Nutr
153. Planta Med.
154. Platelets
155. Prog NeuropsychoPharmacol Biol Psychiatry
156. Public Health
157. ScientificWorldJournal
158. Soc Sci Med Med Anthropol
159. Soc Sci Med.
160. Steroids
161. The Indian Forester.
162. The Indian Practitioner
163. The Journal of Research and Education in Indian Medicine.
164. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol
165. Toxicol Lett
166. Toxicol Mech Methods
167. Toxicology
168. Toxicon.
169. Trop Anim Health Prod
170. Trop Geogr Med
171. West Indian Med J
172. Women Health
173. Yearb Med Inform
174. Z Naturforsch C
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We are grateful to Dr. D. Ramesh Babu, Director General, CCRAS for his encouragement and valuable guidance. We are also grateful to all who coordinate to bring out this issue successfully.
Agarwal AK, Singh M, Gupta N, Saxena R, Puri A, Verma AK, Saxena RP, Dubey CB, Saxena KC. Management of giardiasis by an immuno-modulatory herbal drug Pippali Rasayana. J EthnoPharmacol.2009;44(3):143-6.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Pippali Rasayana (PR), an Ayurvedic herbal medicine, prepared from Piper longum (Pippali) and Butea monosperma (Palash), and prescribed for the treatment of chronic dysentery and worm infestations was tested for anti-giardial and immuno-stimulatory activity in mice, infected with Giardia lamblia trophozoites. It produced up to 98% recovery from the infection. The Rasayana had no killing effect on the parasite in vitro. It induced significant activation of macrophages as evidenced by increased macrophage migration index (MMI) and phagocytic activity. Enhancement of host resistance could be one of the possible mechanisms contributing towards the recovery of animals from the giardial infection.
Agarwal AK, Tripathi DM, Sahai R, Gupta N, Saxena RP, Puri A, Singh M, Misra RN, Dubey CB, Saxena KC. Management of giardiasis by a herbal drug 'Pippali Rasayana': a clinical study. J EthnoPharmacol.2004;56(3):233-6.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Pippali Rasayana (PR), an Indian Ayurvedic drug prepared from Palash (Butea monosperma (Lamk) Kuntze; Leguminaceae) and Pippali (Piper longum L.; Piperaceae), was administered at a dose of 1 g p.o. three times daily for a period of 15 days to patients (25 treated, 25 placebo controls) suffering from giardiasis with clinical signs and symptoms, and stools positive for trophozoites/cysts of Giardia lamblia. After 15 days of drug treatment there was a complete disappearance of G. lamblia (trophozoites/cysts) from the stools of 23 out of 25 patients. General signs and symptoms of ill health and abdominal discomfort, presence of mucus, pus cells and RBCs were significantly reduced. There was a marked improvement in the clinical and haematological profile of the patients. Spontaneous recovery in 20% cases was recorded in placebo controls.
Aggarwal BB, Ichikawa H, Garodia P, Weerasinghe P, Sethi G, Bhatt ID, Pandey MK, Shishodia S, Nair MG. From traditional Ayurvedic medicine to modern medicine:identification of therapeutic targets for suppression of inflammation and cancer.Expert Opin Ther Targets. 2006 ;10(1):87-118.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Cancer is a hyperproliferative disorder that involves transformation, dysregulation of apoptosis, proliferation, invasion, angiogenesis and metastasis. Extensive research during the last 30 years has revealed much about the
biology of cancer. Drugs used to treat most cancers are those that can block cell signalling, including growth factor signalling (e.g.epidermal growth factor); prostaglandin production (e.g.COX-2); inflammation (e.g.inflammatory cytokines: NF-kappaB, TNF, IL-1, IL-6, chemokines); drug resistance gene products (e.g.multi-drug resistance); cell cycle proteins (e.g.cyclin D1 and cyclin E); angiogenesis (e.g.vascular endothelial growth factor); invasion (e.g.matrix metalloproteinases); antiapoptosis (e.g.bcl-2, bcl-X(L), XIAP, survivin, FLIP); and cellular proliferation (e.g.c-myc, AP-1, growth factors). Numerous reports have suggested that Ayurvedic plants and their components mediate their effects by modulating several of these recently identified therapeutic targets. However, Ayurvedic medicine requires rediscovery in light of our current knowledge of allopathic (modern) medicine. The focus of this review is to elucidate the Ayurvedic concept of cancer, including its classification, causes, pathogenesis and prevention; surgical removal of tumours; herbal remedies; dietary modifications; and spiritual treatments.
Aggarwal S, Negi S, Jha P, Singh PK, Stobdan T, Pasha MA, Ghosh S, Agrawal A;Indian Genome Variation Consortium, Prasher B, Mukerji M. EGLN1 involvement in high-altitude adaptation revealed through genetic analysis of extreme constitution types defined in Ayurveda. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2010;107(44):961-6.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
It is being realized that identification of subgroups within normal controls corresponding to contrasting disease susceptibility is likely to lead to more effective predictive marker discovery. We have previously used the Ayurvedic concept of Prakriti, which relates to phenotypic differences in normal individuals, including response to external environment as well as susceptibility to diseases, to explore molecular differences between three contrasting Prakriti types: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. EGLN1 was one among 251 differentially expressed genes between the Prakriti types. In the present study, we report a link between high-altitude adaptation and common variations rs479200 (C/T) and rs480902 (T/C) in the EGLN1 gene. Furthermore, the TT genotype of rs479200, which was more frequent in Kapha types and correlated with higher expression of EGLN1, was associated with patients suffering from high-altitude pulmonary edema, whereas it was present at a significantly lower frequency in Pitta and nearly absent in natives of high altitude. Analysis of Human Genome Diversity Panel-Centre d'Etude du Polymorphisme Humain (HGDP-CEPH) and Indian Genome Variation Consortium panels showed that disparate genetic lineages at high altitudes share the same ancestral allele (T) of rs480902 that is overrepresented in Pitta and positively correlated with altitude globally (P < 0.001), including in India. Thus, EGLN1 polymorphisms are associated with high-altitude adaptation, and a genotype rare in highlanders but overrepresented in a subgroup of normal lowlanders discernable by Ayurveda may confer increased risk for high-altitude pulmonary edema.
Amruthesh S. Dentistry and Ayurveda - IV: classification and management of common oral diseases. Indian J Dent Res. 2008 ;19(1):52-61.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
This Article, the fourth in the series titled 'Dentistry and Ayurveda,' describes in brief the panchakarma therapy, which is a distinctive feature of the Ayurvedic method of detoxifying the body. The various therapies and medicines used in Ayurveda have been elaborated. Further, an attempt has been made to correlate dental diseases in Ayurveda with the modern-day classification, clinical features, and management.
Arora R, Gupta D, Chawla R, Sagar R, Sharma A, Kumar R, PRasad J, Singh S, Samanta N, Sharma RK. Radioprotection by plant products: present status and future prospects. Phytother Res.2005;19(1):1-22.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
The development of radioprotective agents has been the subject of intense research in view of their potential for use within a radiation environment, such as space exploration, radiotherapy and even nuclear war. However, no ideal, safe synthetic radioprotectors are available to date, so the search for alternative sources, including plants, has been on going for several decades. In Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine, several plants have been used to treat free radical-mediated ailments and, therefore, it is logical to expect that such plants may also render some protection against radiation damage. A systematic screening approach can provide leads to identifying potential new candidate drugs from plant sources, for mitigation of radiation injury. This Article reviews some of the most promising plants, and their bioactive principles, that are widely used in traditional systems of medicine, and which have rendered significant radioprotection in both in vitro and in vivo model systems. Plants and their constituents with Pharmacological activities that may be relevant to amelioration of radiation-mediated damage, including antiemetic, antiinflammatory, antioxidant, cell proliferative, wound healing and haemopoietic stimulatories are also discussed.
Auddy B, Ferreira M, Blasina F, Lafon L, Arredondo F, Dajas F, Tripathi PC, Seal T, Mukherjee B. Screening of antioxidant activity of three Indian medicinal plants, traditionally used for the management of neurodegenerative diseases. J EthnoPharmacol. 2003 ;84(2-3):131-8.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
A number of Indian medicinal plants have been used for thousands of years in the traditional system of medicine (Ayurveda). Amongst these are plants used for the management of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, loss of memory, degeneration of nerves and other neuronal disorders by the Ayurvedic practitioners. Though the etiology of neurodegenerative diseases remains enigmatic, there is evidence, which indicates that defective energy Metabolism, excitotoxicity and oxidative damage may be crucial factors (Ann. Neurol. 38 (3) (1995) 357). The part of the Ayurvedic system that provides an approach to prevention and treatment of degenerative diseases is known as Rasayana, and plants used for this purpose are classed as rejuvenators. This group of plants generally possesses strong antioxidant activity (Pharmacol. Biochem. Behav. 43 (1992) 1175), but only a few have been investigated in detail. In the present study, three such Rasayana plants were tested for the first time for their toxicity and free radical scavenging activity both in vitro and ex vivo. All the three plant infusions (up to 1 mg/ml) showed no toxic effects on the viability of PC12 cell line as judged by MTT-test. Both ethanolic extracts and water infusions of the plants were tested for their
antioxidant activity in the 2,2'-azinobis-3-ethyl-benzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS*(+)) radical cation decolorization assay; inhibition of lipid peroxidation by plant infusions was carried out using spontaneous lipid peroxidation of rat brain homogenate, and IC50 values were determined. The results from the ABTS assay showed that the ethanolic extract of Sida cordifolia was found to be most potent (IC50 16.07 microg/ml), followed by Evolvulus alsinoides (IC50 33.39 microg/ml) and Cynodon dactylon (IC50 78.62 microg/ml). The relative antioxidant capacity for the water infusions was observed in the following order: E. alsinoides (IC50 172.25 microg/ml)>C. dactylon (IC50 273.64 microg/ml)>S. cordifolia (IC50 342.82 microg/ml). The results of water infusions of the plants on lipid peroxidation were as follows: E. alsinoides (IC50 89.23 microg/ml)>S. cordifolia) (IC50 126.78 microg/ml)>C. dactylon (IC50 608.31 microg/ml).
Aziz N, Gilani AH, Rindh MA. Kushta(s): unique herbo-mineral preparations used in South Asian traditional medicine. Med Hypotheses.2002;59(4):468-72.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.Abstract.Herbs and minerals are the integral parts of traditional systems of medicine in many countries. Kushta is a form of herbo-mineral preparations used in traditional systems of medicine (Unani and Ayurvedic) of Indo-Pak subcontinent. These preparations have long been used and claimed to be the most effective and potent dosage form. However, there are only few scientific studies carried out on these products because of several reasons mainly being the lack of communication among traditional healers, physicians and scientists. The objective of this paper is to fill this gap by translating the old concepts in modern understanding, providing possible explanation and hypotheses. Some recommendations have also been given to provide the path to initiate research in this area of potential therapeutic value and public concern.
Babu G, Babu A, Bhuyan GC, PRasad GP, Swamy GK. Vandhyatva--a medico historical study. Bull Indian Inst Hist Med Hyderabad.2006;36(1):83-96.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.Abstract.As per Ayurveda, important factors for conception are considered as ritu (fertile period), Kshetra (uterus and reproductive organs), Ambu (Proper nutrient fluid) and Bija (sukra-sonita) and also normalcy of Hdayari (Psychology). Abnormality of properly functioning Vayu and Satbhavas (matŗija, pitŗija, atma, satva, satmaya and Rasa), any one of these causes infertility (Vandhyatva). From the time immemorial the phenomenon of infertility was prevalent through out the world and this may persist till the human race exists. Every human being has inherent, intense desire to continue his (one's) own race; to become a mother is one of the most cherished desires of every woman. Failure to achieve conception by a couple of mature age, having normal coitus during appropriate period of menstrual cycle regularly, at least for one year of their conjugal is termed as infertility. The historical importance of stri Vandhyatva and a comparative study regarding its Nidana, Samprapti, Lakshana, Chikitsa etc compiled from various Granthas are being presented in this paper.
Bafna P, Bodhankar S. Gastrointestinal effects of Mebarid, an Ayurvedic formulation, in experimental animals. J EthnoPharmacol. 2003 ;86(2-3):173-6.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Mebarid, an Ayurvedic formulation, was tested for its anti-diarrhoeal, anti-ulcer and anti-motility activities in animals. Mebarid was investigated at four dose levels of 125, 250, 500 mg/kg BW. and 1g/kg BW The methods of castor oil-induced diarrhoea and pylorus-ligation-induced ulcers in rats were used to evaluate the anti-diarrhoeal and anti-ulcer activity, respectively, while charcoal meal test in mice was the method used for testing
its anti-motility effect. Mebarid was found to have significant activity in all the three models. Thus, it can be concluded that Mebarid possesses anti-diarrhoeal, anti-motility and anti-ulcer activities and can prove beneficial in the treatment of above gastrointestinal disorders.
Bagul MS, Kanaki NS, Rajani M. Evaluation of free radical scavenging properties of two classical polyherbal formulations. Indian J Exp Biol.2005;43(8):732-6.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Two polyherbal formulations of Ayurveda viz.Chandraprabha Vati and Maha Yogaraj a Guggulu were evaluated for their free radical scavenging properties. Methanolic extracts of the formulations were studied in four different in vitro and ex vivo models. Total phenolic content of Chandraprabha Vati and Maha Yogaraj a Guggulu was found to be 5.24% and 10.74% respectively. Methanolic extracts of the formulations were good scavengers of all the radicals but there was a difference in the activity of the two formulations in different models. Chandraprabha Vati was a good scavenger of superoxide radical and Maha Yogaraj a Guggulu was efficient in scavenging nitric oxide (NO), while both inhibited lipid peroxidation efficiently. Free radical scavenging activity of the different extracts can be attributed to the presence of various chemical components including phenolics.
Bajaj S, Vohora SB. Analgesic activity of gold preparations used in Ayurveda and Unani-Tibb. Indian J Med Res. 1998 ;108:104-11.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Calcined gold preparations, Ayurvedic Swarna Bhasma (SB) and Unani Kushta Tila Kalan (KTK) were investigated for analgesic effects in rats and mice using four types of noxious stimuli. Auranofin (AN) used in modern medicine was also studied for comparisons. The test drugs SB and KTK (25-50 mg/kg, p.o.) and AN (2.5-5.0 mg/kg, p.o.) exhibited analgesic activity against chemical (acetic acid induced writhing), electrical (pododolorimeter), thermal (Eddy's hot plate and analgesiometer) and mechanical (tail clip) test. While the analgesic effects of SB and KTK could be partly blocked by pretreatment with naloxone (1-5 mg/kg, i.p.,--15 min), such antagonism was not discernible with AN at the doses used. Involvement of opioidergic mechanism is suggested for the observed analgesic activity.
An integrated approach is needed to manage cancer using the growing body of knowledge gained through scientific developments. Thousands of herbal and traditional compounds are being screened worldwide to validate their use as anti-cancerous drugs. The science of Ayurveda is supposed to add a step on to the curative aspects of cancers that have resemblance with clinical entities of arbuda and granthi mentioned in Sushruta
Samhita. Hence, an attempt is made in this review to discuss about the pathology and therapeutic management of various cancers described in Ayurveda review of literature on anticancer drugs of plant origin revealed identification of newer Ayurvedic drugs that are not mentioned in the ancient texts. These new findings add up to Ayurvedic science that has been developed through ages. In addition, details of experimental and clinical studies conducted on single and compound Ayurvedic preparations for their anticancer efficacy strongly emphasize Ayurvedic therapy as a scientifically driven one and not simply unconventional.
Balasinor N, Bhan A, Paradkar NS, Shaikh A, Nandedkar TD, Bhutani KK, Roy-Chaudhury M. Postnatal development and reproductive performance of F1 progeny exposed in utero to an Ayurvedic contraceptive: Pippalyadi yoga. J EthnoPharmacol. 2007;109(3):406-11.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Pippalyadi yoga or Pippalyadi Vati is an Ayurvedic contraceptive used in India since ancient times. It is a combination of powdered fruit berries of Embelia ribes Burm.f. (Myrsinaceae), Piper longum L. (Piperaceae) and borax in equal proportion. Though the contraceptive potential is known since ancient times, no systematic developmental toxicity studies have been carried out. The present study was carried out to evaluate the postnatal developmental toxicity and the reproductive performance of the progeny exposed in utero to Pippalyadi yoga. Pippalyadi yoga was obtained from National Institute for Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), India and the developmental toxicity was studied by administering three doses, viz. 140, 300 and 700 mg/(kg day) to gravid females from day 6 to day 16 of gestation. Pippalyadi yoga did not have any adverse developmental effects with low doses, however, with the five times higher dose, a decrease in body weight of the pups was observed. The reproductive performance of the progeny born to mothers treated with Pippalyadi was not significantly affected. The present study suggests that in utero exposure to Pippalyadi does not have any adverse effect on the postnatal development and reproductive performance of the F(1) progeny.
Baliga MS, Bhat HP, Pereira MM, Mathias N, Venkatesh P. Radioprotective effects of Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa (Bael): a concise . J Altern Complement Med. 2010;16(10):1109-16.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
The effective use of radiotherapy in cancer cure and palliation is compromised by the side-effects resulting from radiosensitivity of bordering normal tissues, which are invariably exposed to the cytotoxic effects of ionizing radiation during treatment. In this situation, use of radioprotective compounds that can protect normal tissues against radiation injury are of immense use. In addition to protecting normal tissue these compounds will also permit use of higher radiation doses to obtain better cancer control and possible cure. However, to date, no ideal radioprotectors are available as most synthetic compounds are toxic at their optimal concentrations and have produced little success in clinics. Radiation ill-effects are principally the result of generation of free radicals, and the antioxidant compounds that counter them are supposed to be of immense use in preventing them. In Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine, several plants have been observed to avert/ameliorate free radical-mediated ailments--an effect that has been documented--and such plants have recently been the focus of
attention. Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa (Bael), commonly known as Bael, has been used since antiquity for treating various ailments, some of which are now known to be the result of oxidative stress. In studies spanning nearly a decade, it has been observed that Bael prevented radiation-induced ill-effects, and the results of these studies indicate that it has the potential to be an effective, nontoxic radioprotective agent. In this current review, for the first time, an attempt is made to summarize these observations and to discuss the plausible reasons responsible for Bael's radioprotective effects.
Baliga MS, Dsouza JJ. Amla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn), a wonder berry in the treatment and prevention of cancer. Eur J Cancer Prev. 2011.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Emblica officinalis Gaertn. or Phyllanthus emblica Linn, commonly known as Indian gooseberry or Amla, is arguably the most important medicinal plant in the Indian traditional system of medicine, the Ayurveda. Various parts of the plant are used to treat a range of diseases, but the most important is the fruit. The fruit is used either alone or in combination with other plants to treat many ailments such as common cold and fever; as a diuretic, laxative, liver tonic, refrigerant, stomachic, restorative, alterative, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, hair tonic; to prevent peptic ulcer and dyspepsia, and as a digestive. Preclinical studies have shown that Amla possesses antipyretic, analgesic, antitussive, antiatherogenic, adaptogenic, cardioprotective, gastroprotective, antianemia, antihypercholesterolemia, wound healing, antidiarrheal, antiatherosclerotic, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, and neuroprotective properties. In addition, experimental studies have shown that Amla and some of its phytochemicals such as gallic acid, ellagic acid, pyrogallol, some norsesquiterpenoids, corilagin, geraniin, elaeocarpusin, and prodelphinidins B1 and B2 also possess antineoplastic effects. Amla is also reported to possess radiomodulatory, chemomodulatory, chemopreventive effects, free radical scavenging, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic and immunomodulatory activities, properties that are efficacious in the treatment and prevention of cancer. This review for the first time summarizes the results related to these properties and also emphasizes the aspects that warrant future research to establish its activity and utility as a cancer preventive and therapeutic drug in humans.
Baliga MS. Triphala, Ayurvedic formulation for treating and preventing Cancer: a . J Altern Complement Med. 2010;16(12):1301-8.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
BACKGROUND: Triphala (Sanskrit tri = three and phala = fruits), composed of the three medicinal fruits Phyllanthus emblica L. or Emblica officinalis Gaertn.Terminalia chebula Retz.and Terminalia belerica Retz. is an important herbal preparation in the traditional Indian system of medicine, Ayurveda. Triphala is an antioxidant-rich herbal formulation and possesses diverse beneficial properties. It is a widely prescribed Ayurvedic drug and is used as a colon cleanser, digestive, diuretic, and laxative. Cancer is a major cause of death, and globally studies are being conducted to prevent cancer or to develop effective nontoxic therapeutic agents. Experimental studies in the past decade have shown that Triphala is useful in the prevention of cancer and that it also possesses antineoplastic, radioprotective and chemoprotective effects. CONCLUSIONS: This
review for the first time summarizes these results, with emphasis on published observations. Furthermore, the possible mechanisms responsible for the beneficial effects and lacunas in the existing knowledge that need to be bridged are also discussed.
Bansal Parveen, Sannd Rajesh, Srikanth N, Lavekar G S. Effect of Neutraceutical RASAYANA Food Supplements on Certain Physical and Physiological Parameters in First Ayurvedic Clinical Trial at ANTARCTICA. Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Siddha. 2009;30(1):83-92.http://www.ccras.nic.in/Publications/Periodicals/ResearchinAyurvedaSiddha/JRAS,%20XXX,%20No.1,%20Jan.-Mar%202009.pdf
Abstract.
Rasayana herbs have been advocated to have tremendous adaptogenic properties. It is also as well known fact that stress generates free radicals that affect the antioxidant status of the body. Rasayana herbs due to their adaptogenic properties reduce stress caused by endogenous and exogenous stressors. A single blind clinical trial was conducted at Indian Station “Maitri” at Antarctica on volunteers from 2nd Indian Scientific Expedition to Antarctica to establish the effect of established Rasayana food supplements on selected physical and physiological parameters. Food supplement was prepared by using Rasayana herbs with established adaptogenic effect and high-energy dry fruits. So it was pertinent to know its effect on some of important physiological parameters. For this study, 21 subjects were selected in trial group and were given food supplement. It addition 7 volunteers were selected for control group and were not given food supplement. The subjects were fed with the food supplement daily for a period of 45 days. Assessment was done at 0 day and at fornightly intervals for various parameters like Lean Body Mass (LBM), Body Mass Index (BMI), Mid Arm Circumference (MAC), TLC, DLC, blood pressure and pulse rate. From the study it was observed that there was no significant effect of food supplement on selected physical and physiological parameters. Since this food supplement shown antioxidant, antistress and adaptogenic effect, so can be used without side effect on body weight, blood pressure and body fat.
Bansal Parveen, Sannd Rajesh, Kumar Sanjiv, Bansal Renu, Sharma S, Mishra D K. Medicated Thread Kshara Sutra – an example of novel drug delivery system in ancient para-surgical measures. The Antiseptic. 2008;105(2):90-93
Abstract.
The references of Kshara Sutra are found in the oldest book of surgery “The Sushruta Samhita.” It is an age old treatment for fistulae and sinuses that occur in vital parts of the body where conventional surgical procedures are not free from grave side effects. This was prepared by smearing a strong cotton thread in the latex of Euphorbia nerrifolia (SNOOHI KSHEERA), water extract of the ashes of Achyranthes aspera (APAMARGA KSHARA) and powder of Curcuma longa (HARIDRA CHURNA). The coatings are repeated for 21 times in a systematic way. This makes it a novel sustained release implant in the body that releases the dose of drugs after dissolution of each layer for a longer period.
Bansal P, Sannd R, Srikanth N, Lavekar G S. Antioxidant activity of coded neutraceutical Rasayana products in the first clinical trial at Antarctica. Journal of Tropical Medicinal Plants (Malasia). 2007;8(2):178-183
http://www.tropmedplants.com/Article.php?aid=318
Abstract.:
A Rasayana (compound mixture) was prepared using Withania somnifera, Tinospora cordifolia, Chlorophytum arundenaceum, Piper longum, Prunus amygdalus and few other herbs. A study was carried out to look into the effects of this compound in the form of drink and food supplement to assess the antioxidant effects on the persons tested. Clinical trials were conducted for 45 days on 21 persons who were members of 23rd Indian Scientific expedition to Antarctica. Various biochemical / clinical tests were conducted and the results are summarized.
Bapat RD, Acharya BS, Juvekar S, Dahanukar SA. Leech therapy for complicated varicose veins. Indian J Med Res. 1998 ;107:281-4.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Several methods of limb bandaging have been described to reduce the oedema and enhance ulcer healing in complicated varicose veins, with varying success rates. Leech therapy has never before been tried for the same. We evaluated the effectiveness of medicinal Leech therapy in producing venous decongestion, reversal of oedema, hyperpigmentation and healing of varicose ulcer(s). Whether the Leech selectively sucks venous blood was also investigated. Hirudo medicinalis (medicinal Leech) was applied to the area surrounding the varicose ulcer(s) in 20 patients with varicose veins with complications and the patients were monitored for ulcer healing, and decrease in hyperpigmentation, oedema and limb girth. The pArtial pressure of O2 (pO2) of 7 patients' arterial and venous blood was compared to that sucked by the Leech. After Leech therapy all the ulcers showed healing, while 95 per cent of patients showed a decrease in oedema and limb girth. Seventy five per cent patients demonstrated a decrease in hyperpigmentation. The mean pO2 of blood sucked by the Leech was 40.05 +/- 7.24 mmHg, which was similar to the mean pO2 of the patients' venous blood (34.33 +/- 8.4 mmHg). Thus it appears from this study that the medicinal Leech sucks venous blood and aids ulcer healing, and can probably therefore be used as an effective adjunct in the management of complicated varicose veins. This however requires further evaluation by controlled trials.
Baruah D, Gupta OP. A comparative study of Prameha Roga from the Brihattrayee. Bull Indian Inst Hist Med Hyderabad. 2002;32(2):93-107. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
The study of this Prameha Roga reveals the rich knowledge of the Ayurveda developed since the time immemorial. Although descriptions of this disease are scattered in different classics of Ayurveda but here importance has been given to Brihatrayee. The aim and object of this paper review the well documented concept of the Ayurveda about the Prameha Roga as the trend of diabetes is increasing day by day in the society and is very difficult to prevent and manage owing to its complexity. The Ayurvedic concept of this Roga information on the subject regarding classification, characteristics, features etc. has been also made in this paper. This
Article highlights the wisdom of ancient Indian literature and some historical view of the disease i.e. Prameha Roga or Diabetes Mellitus.
Bhat J, Damle A, Vaishnav PP, Albers R, Joshi M, Banerjee G. In vivo enhancement of natural killer cell activity through tea fortified with Ayurvedic herbs. Phytother Res. 2010;24(1):129-35. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
The effect of a tea fortified with five herbs selected from Indian traditional medicine (Ayurveda) for their putative immunoenhancing effect (Withania somnifera, Glycyrrhzia glabra, Zingiber officinale, Ocimum sanctum and Elettaria cardamomum) on innate immunity was investigated. Ex vivo natural killer (NK) cell activity was assessed after consumption of fortified tea compared with regular tea in two independent double-blind intervention studies. Both studies were conducted in India with healthy volunteers (age >or= 55 years) selected for a relatively low baseline NK cell activity and a history of recurrent coughs and colds. In a pilot study conducted with 32 volunteers, the consumption of Natural Care tea significantly improved the NK cell activity of the volunteers in comparison with a population consuming regular tea. These results were validated in an independent crossover study with 110 volunteers. Data from these two studies indicate that regular consumption of the tea fortified with Ayurvedic herbs enhanced NK cell activity, which is an important aspect of the (early) innate immune response to infections.
Bhat S, Lavekar GS. Ayurvedic approach to pathya (ideal diet planning)—an appraisal. Bull Indian Inst Hist Med Hyderabad. 2005;35(2):147-56. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Most health problems develop due to the wrong eating habits and cooking methods. Ayurveda deals with the pathya, apathya or pathya vyavastha (planning of diet- dietetics) in a very scientific and holistic way of Dietetics. The diet planning mentioned in our classical literature is very rational and based on certain principles. Lot of importance is given to the diet with regard to its processing, quality, quantity and so on. Due consideration is given to the atmosphere, psychological condition, status of health, digestion etc. of the person while dealing with this issue. The diet should also be planned according to the age, season, habitat and the preference of the person. In this paper the fundamental principals of Pathya vyavastha (dietetics) with appropriate references, recommended diet based on the texts and clinical findings for some important diseases such as diabetes, liver diseases, acid -peptic disorders, cardiac diseases are dealt with. The proper incorporation of diet not only can prevent many preventable disorders but plays major role in the management of the Diseases. Ayurveda has very holistic and scientific approach in planning the diet. The fundamental principles like tridosa, Prakrti, the tastes, processing of food, the quality, quantity, and the rules regarding eating food if considered while incorporating the diet one can keep away from many diseases of body and mind.
Bhatnagar VK, Hussain SA, Ali M. A brief history of Ayurveda in Hyderabad. Bull Indian Inst Hist Med Hyderabad. 1994;24(1):63-75. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
This Article contains a brief history of Ayurveda in Hyderabad. It can be proudly stated that this system is prevailing here since foundation of this city in 1590 A.D. As it is said that the physicians of Ayurveda and Unani both were among the staff of the first general hospital of Hyderabad city 'Darush-shifa' which was constructed in 1595 A.D. After the Qutub Shahi period the rulers of Asafjahi dynasty also patronised this system. The physicians of this period not only run their clinics but they also teach this system to their pupils privately. Due to the efforts of some eminent Ayurvedic physicians, Ayurveda progressed well. The names and the photos of these physicians have been given in this Article. Now this system has a good status here with well established college, hospital and research department etc.
Bhatnagar VK, PRasad PV. Medicinal plants referred in Kautilya's Arthashastra. Bull Indian Inst Hist Med Hyderabad. 2004;34(1):1-16. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Kautilya's Arthashastra which was written somewhere in 321-300 B.C. on ancient Indian Polity, holds a unique place in Indian history and culture. It was discovered at Tanjavore district of Mysore in Karnataka. The Manuscript of Arthashastra (Devanagari script) was traced by Sri Munisri Jinavijayajee of Patna. Mr. Shyama Sastry had first published the translated text in 1909 as Volume 37 of the Bibliotheca Sanskrta of Mysore. There are 150 chapters in this work. The author of this work, Kautilya is also known as Visnugupta or Canakya. The author himself in the concluding verse of the Arthashastra quoted his name as Visnugupta. The later writers on his works also designated his name as Canakya. It was also translated into German and Russian languages. The plants and herbs having medicinal value were compiled in the Arthashastra to bring out the knowledge of the period and how the people honored, patronized, considered their own indigenous system as a part of their life. Same information is being presented in this Article.
Bhatt AD, Dalal DG, Shah SJ, Joshi BA, Gajjar MN, Vaidya RA, Vaidya AB, Antarkar DS. Conceptual and methodologic challenges of assessing the short-term efficacy of Guggulu in obesity: data emergent from a naturalistic clinical trial. J Postgrad Med. 1995 ;41(1):5-7. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
An open comparative trial was conducted in 58 adult obese patients (Body Mass Index > or = 25 kg/square metre). Group I (n = 27), non-drug, was advised diet (1200-1600 cals) and a brisk walk for 30 minutes. Group II, in addition, received Guggulu (Medohar) 1.5-3 gm/day for 30 days. Mean difference in weight loss between Guggulu and non-drug group was 0.32 kg (ns) on day 15 and 0.58 kg on day 30 (ns). The mean weight reduction in patients (> 90 kg) was 1.92 kg (ns) and 2.25 kg (ns) higher in Guggulu group. All patients weighing > 90 kg lost weight in Guggulu group whilst 3 in non-drug group did not lose weight. Guggulu was
tolerated well. The data from this pilot study suggest a synergistic diet-Guggulu interaction over 30 days in patients weighing > 90 kg which needs to be confirmed in a large placebo controlled study.
Bhatt AD. Clinical research on Ayurvedic therapeutics: myths, realities and challenges. J Assoc Physicians India. 2001;49:558-62. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Globally there is an increasing interest in alternative routes to health such as Ayurveda. There is a need to conduct globally acceptable clinical research in Ayurvedic therapeutics (AT). Some of the issues in investigating AT in randomized clinical trials (CT) are: selection of appropriate AT, non-drug and/or drug AT, identification of objective outcomes, devising adequate placebo/positive controls, difficulties of blinding, guarding against bias, duration of trials, number of patients, dose optimisation, etc. There is also a need to establish reasonable safety of this therapy in CT. If AT has to complete with new chemical entities and biotechnology products, clinical research and development of AT should be focussed on unmet medical needs utilising principles and practices of modern CT approaches.
Bhattacharya SK, Bhattacharya A, ChakrabArti A. Adaptogenic activity of Siotone, a polyherbal formulation of Ayurvedic Rasayanas. Indian J Exp Biol. 2000;38(2):119-28. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Siotone (ST) is a herbal formulation comprising of Withania somnifera, Ocimum sanctum, Asparagus racemosus, Tribulus terristris and shilajit, all of which are classified in Ayurveda as Rasayanas which are reputed to promote physical and mental health, improve defence mechanisms of the body and enhance longevity. These attributes are similar to the modern concept of adaptogenic agents, which are, known to afford protection of the human physiological system against diverse stressors. The present study was undertaken to investigate the adaptogenic activity of ST against chronic unpredictable, but mild, footshock stress induced perturbations in behaviour (depression), glucose Metabolism, suppressed male sexual behaviour, immunosuppression and cognitive dysfunction in CF strain albino rats. Gastric ulceration, adrenal gland and spleen weights, ascorbic acid and corticosterone concentrations of adrenal cortex, and plasma corticosterone levels, were used as the stress indices. Panax ginseng (PG) was used as the standard adaptogenic agent for comparison. Additionally, rat brain levels of tribulin, an endogenous endocoid postulated to be involved in stress, were also assessed in terms of endogenous monoamine oxidase (MAO) A and MAOB inhibitory activity. Chronic unpredictable footshock induced marked gastric ulceration, significant increase in adrenal gland weight and plasma corticosterone levels, with concomitant decreases in spleen weight, and concentrations of adrenal gland ascorbic acid and corticosterone. These effects were attenuated by ST (50 and 100 mg/kg, p.o.) and PG (100 mg/kg, p.o.), administered once daily over a period of 14 days, the period of stress induction. Chronic stress also induced glucose intolerance, suppressed male sexual behaviour, induced behavioural depression (Porsolt's swim despair test and learned helplessness test) and cognitive dysfunction (attenuated retention of learning in active and passive avoidance tests), and immunosuppression (leucocyte migration inhibition and sheep RBC challenged increase in paw oedema in sensitized rats). All these chronic stress-induced
perturbations were attenuated, dose-dependently by ST (50 and 100 mg/kg, p.o.) and PG (100 mg/kg, p.o.). Chronic stress-induced increase in rat brain tribulin activity was also reversed by these doses of ST and by PG. The results indicate that ST has significant adaptogenic activity, qualitatively comparable to PG, against a variety of behavioural, biochemical and physiological perturbations induced by unpredictable stress, which has been proposed to be a better indicator of clinical stress than acute stress parameters. The likely contribution of the individual constituents of ST in the observed adaptogenic action of the polyherbal formulation, have been discussed.
Biradar YS, Singh R, Sharma K, Dhalwal K, Bodhankar SL, Khandelwal KR. Evaluation of anti-diarrhoeal property and acute toxicity of Triphala Mashi, an Ayurvedic formulation. J Herb Pharmacother. 2007;7(3-4):203-12. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
The anti-diarrhoeal effect of aqueous and alcoholic extracts of Triphala and Triphala Mashi were studied employing castor oil-induced-diarrhoeal model in rats. The gastrointestinal transit rate was expressed as the percentage of the longest distance travelled by the charcoal divided by the total length of the small intestine. All the extracts, at various doses 200, 400 and 800 mg/kg displayed remarkable anti-diarrhoeal activity as evidenced by a significant increase in first defecation time, cumulative fecal weight and intestinal transit time. Aqueous and alcoholic extracts of Triphala and Triphala Mashi were considered safe up to a dose of 1750 mg/kg when evaluated for acute oral toxicity in accordance with the OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development) guidelines. In conclusion, the remarkable anti-diarrhoeal effect of Triphala and Triphala Mashi extracts against castor oil-induced diarrhoea suggest its potential for application in a wide range of diarrhoeal states.
Biswas TK, Pandit S, Mondal S, Biswas SK, Jana U, Ghosh T, Tripathi PC, Debnath PK, Auddy RG, Auddy B. Clinical evaluation of spermatogenic activity of processed Shilajit in oligospermia. Andrologia. 2010;42(1):48-56. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
The safety and spermatogenic activity of processed Shilajit (PS) were evaluated in oligospermic patients. Initially, 60 infertile male patients were assessed and those having total sperm counts below 20 million ml(-1) semen were considered oligospermic and enrolled in the study (n = 35). PS capsule (100 mg) was administered twice daily after major meals for 90 days. Total semenogram and serum testosterone, luteinising hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone were estimated before and at the end of the treatment. Malondialdehyde (MDA), a marker for oxidative stress, content of semen and biochemical parameters for safety were also evaluated. Twenty-eight patients who completed the treatment showed significant (P < 0.001) improvement in spermia (+37.6%), total sperm count (+61.4%), motility (12.4-17.4% after different time intervals), normal sperm count (+18.9%) with concomitant decrease in pus and epithelial cell count compared with baseline value. Significant decrease of semen MDA content (-18.7%) was observed. Moreover, serum testosterone (+23.5%; P < 0.001) and FSH (+9.4%; P < 0.05) levels significantly increased. HPLC chromatogram revealed inclusion of PS
constituents in semen. Unaltered hepatic and renal profiles of patients indicated that PS was safe at the given dose. The present findings provide further evidence of the spermatogenic nature of Shilajit, as attributed in Ayurvedic medicine, Particularly when administered as PS.
Biswas TK, Mukherjee B. Plant medicines of Indian origin for wound healing activity: a . Int J Low Extrem Wounds. 2003 ;2(1):25-39. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Research on wound healing drugs is a developing area in modern biomedical sciences. Scientists who are trying to develop newer drugs from natural resources are looking toward the Ayurveda, the Indian traditional system of medicine. Several drugs of plant, mineral, and animal origin are described in the Ayurveda for their wound healing properties under the term Vranaropaka. Most of these drugs are derived from plant origin. Some of these plants have been screened scientifically for the evaluation of their wound healing activity in different Pharmacological models and patients, but the potential of most remains unexplored. In a few cases, active chemical constituents were identified. Some Ayurvedic medicinal plants, namely, Ficus bengalensis, Cynodon dactylon, Symplocos racemosa, Rubia cordifolia, Pterocarpus santalinus, Ficus racemosa, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Berberis aristata, Curcuma longa, Centella asiatica,Euphorbia nerifolia, and Aloe vera, were found to be effective in experimental models. This paper presents a limited review of plants used in Ayurvedic medicine.
Breemen Richard B. van, Li Yi Tao, Wenkui. Cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors in ginger (Zingiber officinale). Fitoterapia.2011;82(1):38-43.
Abstract.
Ginger roots have been used to treat inflammation and have been reported to inhibit cyclooxygenase(COX). Ultrafiltration liquid chromatography mass spectrometry was used to screen achloroform pArtition of a methanol extract of ginger roots for COX-2 ligands, and 10-gingerol, 12-gingerol, 8-shogaol, 10-shogaol, 6-gingerdione, 8-gingerdione, 10-gingerdione, 6-dehydro-10-gingerol, 6-paradol, and 8-paradol bound to the enzyme active site. Purified 10-gingerol, 8-shogaol and 10-shogaol inhibited COX-2 with IC50 values of 32 μM, 17.5 μMand7.5 μM, respectively.No inhibition of COX-1was detected. Therefore, 10-gingerol, 8-shogaol and 10-shogaol inhibit COX-2 but not COX-1,which can explain, in part, the anti-inflammatory properties of ginger.
Cameron MM. Untouchable healing: a Dalit Ayurvedic doctor from Nepal suffershis country's ills. Med Anthropol. 2009;28(3):235-67. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Ayurvedic medicine thrives in Nepal. Even so, barriers of untouchability that have long prevented Dalits from establishing equal relationships with upper castes have made medical education out of reach for them. Hence, nearly all Ayurvedic practitioners are high caste men. Forty years ago, an "untouchable" man from the Himalayan foothills with a thirst for knowledge about Ayurveda traveled south into India where he changed his caste and "became" a Brahman for 14 years as he studied the theory and practice of Ayurvedic medicine in a Haridwar college. Rasaliji's life story, recorded initially in 2000 and continued through 2007-2008, encompasses a period of rapid modernization that spawned a state health policy promoting biomedicine, a proliferation of pharmaceutical drugs, and a national election that swept the Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist into power and saw an unprecedented 9 percent Dalits elected to the Constituent Assembly. This Article presents Rasaliji's current concerns with the state of medicine and social justice in Nepal.
Chacko E. Culture and therapy: complementary strategies for the treatment of type-2 diabetes in an urban setting in Kerala, India. Soc Sci Med. 2003;56(5):1087-98. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
There is an epidemic rise in diabetes in the developing world, with ensuing concern about the management and control of the disease. This study investigates the use of complementary therapies to manage Type 2 diabetes in an urban population in Kerala, a state in Southern India. Using ethnographic methods, it shows that the subjects' experiences of the disease and their health management decisions are closely linked to their cultural background and the environmental resources of the region. PArticipants in the study relied on biomedicine for treating diabetes, but frequently used Ayurvedic medicine and folk herbal remedies as supplements. They named 24 local plants and plant products that were employed to lower blood glucose levels. Knowledge of tried and tested local or regional remedies and their incorporation into individual and community health care practices are evidence of medical knowledge as cultural capital. Greater attention needs to be paid to the broader systems of the environment and culture
Chanda D, Shanker K, Pal A, Luqman S, Bawankule DU, Mani D, Darokar MP. Safety evaluation of Trikatu, a generic Ayurvedic medicine in Charles Foster rats. J Toxicol Sci. 2009 ;34(1):99-108. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.com
Abstract.
Chemical characterization and acute and sub-acute toxicity study of Trikatu, a generic herbal formulation of Indian system of medicine, was carried out in Charles Foster (CF) rats for safety profiling. In acute toxicity experiment, Trikatu at 2,000 mg/kg body weight once orally was well tolerated by the experimental animals (both male and female) and no changes were observed in mortality, morbidity, gross pathology, gain in weight, vital organ weight, hematological parameters (total white blood cells (WBC) and red blood cells (RBC) count), biochemical parameters such as serum creatinine, serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), serum lipid profile and tissue biochemical parameters such as reduced glutathione and malonaldehyde content as oxidative stress markers. In sub-acute experiment, Trikatu was administered at 5, 50 and 300 mg/kg body weight once daily for 28 days in female CF rats, and non-
significant changes were found in most of the parameters studied such as acute experiment except significant increase in low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol level at 50 and 300 mg/kg body weight, decrease in high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol level at 300 mg/kg body weight, increase in SGPT activity at 50 mg/kg body weight and decrease in WBC count at 300 mg/kg body weight on 28(th) day post treatment.
Charles V, Charles SX. The use and efficacy of Azadirachta indica ADR ('Neem') and Curcuma longa ('Turmeric') in scabies. A pilot study. Trop Geogr Med. 1992 ;44(1-2):178-81. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
In the Ayurvedha and Sidha system of medicine (Indian system of medicine) Azadirachta indica ADR ('Neem') and Curcuma longa ('Turmeric') has been used for healing chronic ulcers and scabies. The 'Neem' and 'Turmeric' was used as a paste for the treatment of scabies in 814 people. In 97% of cases cure was obtained within 3 to 15 days of treatment. We find that this is a very cheap, easily available, effective and acceptable mode of treatment for the villagers in the developing countries. We have noticed no toxic or adverse reaction so far. However, further research is needed.
Chauhan NS, Sharma V, Thakur M, Dixit VK. Curculigo orchioides: the black gold with numerous health benefits. Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Xue Bao. 2010 ;8(7):613-23. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Curculigo orchioides Gaertn. (family Amarylladaceae) is an endangered Rasayana herb which is popularly known as "Kali Musli". The plant is native to India, and holds a special position as a potent adaptogen and aphrodisiac in Ayurvedic system of medicine. It is an important ingredient of many Ayurvedic preparations and is considered to have aphrodisiac, immunostimulant, hepatoprotective, antioxidant, anticancer and antidiabetic activities. Various chemical constituents like mucilage, phenolic glycosides, saponins and aliphatic compounds from the plant have been reported. The plant is also considered as an important component of various herbal preparations of the Chinese and Kampo medicine. The present review is an attempt to enumerate various biologically tested activities and evaluation of different phytochemicals present in this important medicinal plant.
Chopra A, Lavin P, Patwardhan B, Chitre D. Randomized double blind trial of an Ayurvedic plant derived formulation for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. J Rheumatol. 2000 ;27(6):1365-72. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate RA-1, a standardized plant extract formulation, traditionally considered a safe, effective antiarthritic in the Asian-Indian Ayurvedic medicinal system. METHODS: One hundred eighty-two patients with active-on-chronic rheumatoid arthritis (RA) participated in a 16 week randomized, double blind,
placebo controlled, parallel efficacy clinical drug trial in Pune, India. Tenderness, pain, swelling, and several other efficacy measures were assessed by (1) ACR core set 20% and 50% improvement; (2) ACR 20% improvement response. An intent-to-treat analysis was performed; p<0.05 considered significant. RESULTS: Seventeen patients withdrew (active = 9; placebo = 8); none withdrew due to drug toxicity. An unprecedented placebo response (often p<0.001 in within-group change) was observed. The active RA-1 group remained numerically superior at all evaluation timepoints. RA-1 demonstrated few significant differences: (1) increased proportion with 50% reduction in swollen joint count (95% CI approximately 1.52, 29.90) and swollen joint score (95% CI approximately 0.91, 28.73); (2) reduced rheumatoid factor (95% CI approximately -303.7, -2.72); 39% in the RA-1 group versus 30% placebo showed ACR 20% improvement (95% CI approximately -5.48, 24.59). Only minor side effects were seen, with no significant differences by treatment group. CONCLUSION: In a trial with sufficient power, RA-1 revealed efficacy that was not significantly superior to the strong placebo response, except for improvement in joint swelling. Further, the effect on RF and good safety profile led to an open label phase.
Conboy L, Edshteyn I, Garivaltis H. Ayurveda and Panchakarma: measuring the effects of a holistic health intervention. ScientificWorldJournal. 2009;9:272-80. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Ayurveda, the traditional medical system of India, is understudied in western contexts. Using data gathered from an Ayurvedic treatment program, this study examined the role of psychosocial factors in the process of behavior change and the salutogenic process. This obserVational study examined associations with pArticipation in the 5-day Ayurvedic cleansing retreat program, Panchakarma.Quality of life, psychosocial, and behavior change measurements were measured longitudinally on 20 female pArticipants. Measurements were taken before the start of the program, immediately after the program, and 3 months post-program. The program did not significantly improve quality of life. Significant improvements were found in self-efficacy towards using Ayurveda to improve health and reported positive health behaviors. In addition, perceived social support and depression showed significant improvements 3 months postprogram after the subjects had returned to their home context. As a program of behavior change, our preliminary results suggest that the complex intervention Panchakarma may be effective in assisting one's expected and reported adherence to new and healthier behavior patterns.
Dev S. Ancient-modern concordance in Ayurvedic plants: some examples. Environ Health Perspect. 1999;107(10):783-9. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Ayurveda is the ancient (before 2500 b.c.) Indian system of health care and longevity. It involves a holistic view of man, his health, and illness. Ayurvedic treatment of a disease consists of salubrious use of drugs, diets, and certain practices. Medicinal preparations are invariably complex mixtures, based mostly on plant products. Around 1,250 plants are currently used in various Ayurvedic preparations. Many Indian medicinal plants have come under scientific scrutiny since the middle of the nineteenth century, although in a sporadic fashion. The
first significant contribution from Ayurvedic materia medica came with the isolation of the hypertensive alkaloid from the Sarpagandha plant (Rouwolfia serpentina), valued in Ayurveda for the treatment of hypertension, insomnia, and insanity. This was the first important ancient-modern concordance in Ayurvedic plants. With the gradual coming of age of chemistry and biology, disciplines central to the study of biologic activities of natural products, many Ayurvedic plants have been reinvestigated. Our work on Commiphora wightti gum-resin, valued in Ayurveda for correcting lipid disorders, has been described in some detail; based on these investigations, a modern antihyperlipoproteinemic drug is on the market in India and some other countries. There has also been concordance for a few other Ayurvedic crude drugs such as Asparagus racemosus, Cedrus deodara, and Psoralea corylifolia.
Dhanasekaran M, Tharakan B, Holcomb LA, Hitt AR, Young KA, Manyam BV. Neuroprotective mechanisms of Ayurvedic antidementia botanical Bacopa monniera. Phytother Res. 2007;21(10):965-9. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive dementia. Bacopa monniera is described in the Ayurvedic Materia Medica, as a therapeutically useful herb for the treatment of cognitive impairment, thus supporting its possible anti-Alzheimer's properties. Our studies have shown that Bacopa monniera reduces beta-amyloid deposits in the brain of an Alzheimer's disease animal model. The objective of this study was to establish the presence of endogenous substances in Bacopa monniera extract (BmE) that will impact components of the oxidative stress cascade such as the reduction of divalent metals, scavenging of reactive oxygen species, alterations of lipoxygenase activity and hydrogen peroxide-induced lipid peroxidation. The extract contained polyphenols and sulfhydryl contents suggestive of endogenous antioxidant activity. The results demonstrated that BmE reduced divalent metals, dose-dependently scavenged reactive oxygen species, decreased the formation of lipid peroxides and inhibited lipoxygenase activity. These data combined with our previous studies that have shown that BmE treatment reduces beta-amyloid levels in the brain of an Alzheimer's disease doubly transgenic mouse model of rapid amyloid deposition (PSAPP mice) suggesting mechanisms of action relevant to thetreatment of Alzheimer's disease.
Elder C, Aickin M, Bauer V, Cairns J, Vuckovic N. Randomized trial of a whole-system Ayurvedic protocol for type 2 diabetes. Altern Ther Health Med. 2006 ;12(5):24-30. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
CONTEXT: Though complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) treatments are popular, evidence to support their application to diabetes care is scarce. Previous CAM diabetes research has generally focused on single modalities, but CAM practitioners more commonly prescribe complex, multimodality interventions. OBJECTIVES: The aims of this study were to determine the feasibility and clinical impact of a whole-system, Ayurvedic intervention for newly diagnosed people with type 2 diabetes. DESIGN: Patients were randomly assigned to either an experimental or control arm. SETTING: Group model health maintenance organization. PArticipants: We recruited 60 adult patients with baseline glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) values between
6.0 and 8.0. INTERVENTION: Treatment for the experimental group included exercise, an Ayurvedic diet, meditation instruction, and an Ayurvedic herb supplement (MA 471). Control patients attended standard diabetes education classes with primary care clinician follow-up. MEASUREMENTS: Clinical outcomes were assessed at 3 and 6 months and included HbA1c, fasting glucose, lipids, blood pressure, and weight. RESULTS: Ninety-two percent of randomized patients completed the study, and there were no significant adverse study-related events. Using analysis of co-variance (ANCOVA), we found no significant differences for clinical outcomes at 6 months between on-study patient groups, though trends favored the Ayurvedic group. When we included a factor measuring how much baseline HbA1c exceeded the mean (6.5%), however, we found statistically significant improvements in the Ayurvedic group for HbA1c (P = .006), fasting glucose (P = .001), total cholesterol (P = .05), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (P = .04), and weight (P = .035). CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that the Ayurvedic intervention may benefit patients with higher baseline HbA1c values, warranting further research.
Elder C. Ayurveda for diabetes mellitus: a review of the biomedical literature. Altern Ther Health Med. 2004;10(1):44-50.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Diabetes mellitus is a condition that is extremely serious from both clinical and public health standpoints. The traditional healthcare system of India, Ayurveda, offers a balanced and holistic multi-modality approach to treating this disorder.Many Ayurvedic modalities have been subjected to empirical scientific evaluation, but most such research has been done in India, receiving little attention in North America. This paper offers a review of the English language literature related to Ayurveda and diabetes care, encompassing herbs, diet, yoga, and meditation as modalities that are accessible and acceptable to Western clinicians and patients. There is a considerable amount of data from both animal and human trials suggesting efficacy of Ayurvedic interventions in managing diabetes. However, the reported human trials generally fall short of contemporary methodological standards. More research is needed in the area of Ayurvedic treatment of diabetes, assessing both whole practice and individual modalities.
Farag NH, Mills PJ. A randomised-controlled trial of the effects of a traditional herbal supplement on sleep onset insomnia. Complement Ther Med. 2003;11(4):223-5. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
OBJECTIVES: To study the effectiveness and safety of a traditional herbal supplement used for sleep onset insomnia.DESIGN: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, cross-over study. SETTING: A total of 25 healthy volunteers (20-65 years of age) suffering from sleep onset insomnia were recruited from the general population. INTERVENTION: A traditional Ayurvedic supplement formulated to reduce sleep onset insomnia. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Sleep latency. RESULTS: The supplement led to a statistically significant decrease in reported sleep latency of 16.72 min (S.D.=44.8) as compared to placebo (P=0.003). There were no self-reported side effects. CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that traditional herbal supplements may be of
significant benefit to patients suffering from sleep onset insomnia while avoiding the negative side effects of commonly prescribed hypnotics.
Flammang AM, Erexson GL, Mecchi MS, Murli H. Genotoxicity testing of a Salacia oblonga extract. Food Chem Toxicol. 2006;44(11):1868-74.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Salacia oblonga has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine for the oral treatment of diabetes. The root extract has been shown to inhibit the activity of intestinal alpha-glucosidases, therefore S. oblonga holds potential as a natural method to mitigate the blood glucose response for people with diabetes. As part of a safety evaluation of novel ingredients for use in blood glucose control, the potential genotoxicity of a S. oblonga root extract (SOE) was evaluated using the standard battery of tests (reverse mutation assay; chromosomal aberrations assay; mouse micronucleus assay) recommended by US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for food ingredients. SOE was determined not to be genotoxic under the conditions of the reverse mutation assay and mouse micronucleus assay, and weakly positive for the chromosomal aberrations assay. A reproducible, although weak, positive chromosomal aberrations response in human lymphocytes is of concern and further toxicity research is recommended. Use of SOE is presently expected to be safe, as anticipated intake is small compared to the doses administered in the genotoxicity assays and may, after further toxicity research, may prove be a useful ingredient in foodstuffs.
Galib, Kar AC, Rao MM, Narayana Ala. Concepts of Contraception in Ancient India and Status in Present Scenario.Journal of Indian Institute of History of Medicine.2008;38(1):79-88.
Abstract.:
Contraception is a way of thinking and living that is adopted voluntarily up on the basis of knowledge, attitude by individuals and couples in order to promote health ad welfare of a family. Interestingly none of the ancient classics like CharakaSamhita, SushrutaSamhita or Astangahrdaya touched upon this subject. It is possible that the society in those days had no need for controlling the population. Later scholars on Ayurveda in the mediaeval period referred to a number of oral/local measures for the purpose of contraception, which was paved the way to the development of different kinds of contraceptive methods prevailing in present scenario. The present paper discusses with few of the concepts practiced in ancient India and also throws some light on research carried out in last few decades.
Garg S, Bhutani KK. Chromatographic analysis of Kutajarista--an Ayurvedic polyherbal formulation. Phytochem Anal. 2008;19(4):323-8. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Kutajarista is a well known polyherbal preparation of which the main ingredient is the stem bark of Holarrhena antidysenterica. This Ayurvedic medicine is prescribed to treat amoebic dysentery and other disorders such as fever, indigestion and malabsorption syndrome. Herbal medicines are very important since, in common with
conventional medicines, they contain biologically active substances that may produce non-trivial side effects when taken in excessive amounts. Very low doses, on the other hand, may have no therapeutic value. In this paper we report the chemical standardisation of Kutajarista by HPLC analysis based upon the presence of the biomarker conessine in the formulation. The standardisation method is simple and reliable, and the precision of method has been tested for repeatability (n = 3) and reproducibility (n = 9). The response of a refractive index detector was linear in the concentration range of 0.1-1.0 mg/mL. Recovery studies were performed to check the method for accuracy. The recovery was found to be in range of 99-105%. The developed HPLC method can be used to quantify conessine for quality control of marketed Kutajarista samples.
Garodia P, Ichikawa H, Malani N, Sethi G, Aggarwal BB. From ancient medicine to modern medicine: Ayurvedic concepts of health and their role in inflammation and cancer. J Soc Integr Oncol. 2007;5(1):25-37.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Recent statistics indicate that the overall cancer incidence in the United States, in spite of billions of dollars spent on research each year, has not changed significantly in the last half-century. Cancers of the prostate, breast, lung, and colon, although most common in the Western world, are least common in the Eastern world. Allopathic medicine commonly practiced currently is only 100 years old. Although traditional medicine has been around for thousands of years, no integration exists between it and allopathic medicine. Ayurveda, the science of long life and one of the most ancient medical systems still practiced on the Indian subcontinent, can be used in combination with modern medicine to provide better treatment of cancer. This review focuses on the Ayurvedic concept of the causes of cancer and its linkage with inflammation, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. How Ayurvedic medicine can be integrated with allopathic medicine is also discussed in this .
George SK, Rajesh R, Kumar S S, Sulekha B, Balaram P. A polyherbal Ayurvedic drug--Indukantha Ghritha as an adjuvant to cancer chemotherapy via immunomodulation. Immunobiology.2008;213(8):641-9.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Indukantha Ghritha (IG) is a polyherbal preparation consisting of 17 plant components widely prescribed by Ayurvedic physicians for various ailments. Though it is a known Ayurvedic drug, no attempt has been made to scientifically validate its mechanism of action. Preliminary studies in our laboratory showed IG to possess considerable immunomodulatory effects with a Th1 type of immune response. In this regard, we attempted to elucidate its role as an adjuvant to cancer chemotherapy. BALB/c mice were administered IG, for a period of 14 days and parameters such as Hb, total and differential WBC count, bone marrow cellularity, lymphocyte proliferation and function, macrophage phagocytosis and tumor remission were studied. Administration of IG could inhibit tumor development in mice challenged with Dalton's lymphoma ascites. IG-induced leukopoiesis and enhanced median survival time as well as life span in tumor bearing animals. Macrophage phagocytic capacity was also elevated. Flow cytometric analysis of lymphocyte subsets and MTS [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulphophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium salt] assay for lymphocyte proliferation,
yielded promising results which reinforces its use as an adjuvant to cancer chemotherapy. The polyherbal drug could reverse cyclophosphamide-induced myelosuppression in control tumor bearing animals significantly to values near or above normal levels. These results demonstrate the potential of IG, especially in several immunosuppressed conditions and patients suffering from leukopenia as a consequence of cancer chemotherapy.
Govindarajan R, Singh DP, Rawat AK. High-performance liquid chromatographic method for the quantification of phenolics in 'Chyavanprash' a potent Ayurvedic drug. J Pharm Biomed Anal. 2007;43(2):527-32.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Quantification of bioactive principles through modern analytical tools is essential for establishing the authenticity, credibility, prescription and usage of Ayurvedic medicines/herbal formulations. 'Chyavanprash' is one of the oldest and most popular Ayurvedic preparations, used widely as a health promotive and disease preventive 'Rasayana' drug in India and elsewhere. The rejuvenating and tonic properties of 'Chavanprash' are considered mainly due to their antioxidant principles, which in turn is due to the presence of phenolic compounds. A simple high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method for the separation and quantitative determination of the major antioxidant compounds from 'Chyavanprash' has been developed. The use of Waters Symmetry column and an acidic mobile phase enabled the efficient separation of phenolic compounds (catechin, quercetin-3-O-rutinoside, syringic acid and gallic acid) within a 35 min analysis. Validation of the method was done with a view to demonstrate its selectivity, linearity, precision, accuracy and robustness. In addition optimization of the complete extraction of phenolic compounds were also studied.
Govindarajan R, Vijayakumar M, Pushpangadan P. Antioxidant approach to disease management and the role of 'Rasayana' herbs of Ayurveda. J EthnoPharmacol. 2005;99(2):165-78.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
The disease preventive and health promotive approach of 'Ayurveda', which takes into consideration the whole body, mind and spirit while dealing with the maintenance of health, promotion of health and treating ailments is holistic and finds increasing acceptability in many regions of the world. Ancient Ayurvedic physicians had developed certain dietary and therapeutic measures to arrest/delay ageing and rejuvenating whole functional dynamics of the body system. This revitalization and rejuvenation is known as the 'Rasayan Chikitsa' (rejuvenation therapy). Traditionally, Rasayana drugs are used against a plethora of seemingly diverse disorders with no pathophysiological connections according to modern medicine. Though, this group of plants generally possesses strong antioxidant activity, only a few have been investigated in detail. Over about 100 disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, hemorrhagic shock, CVS disorders, cystic fibrosis, metabolic disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, gastrointestinal ulcerogenesis and AIDS have been reported as reactive oxygen species mediated. In this review, the role of free radicals in these diseases has been briefly reviewed. 'Rasayana' plants with potent antioxidant activity have been reviewed for their traditional uses, and mechanism of antioxidant action. Fifteen such plants have been dealt with in detail and some more plants with less work have also been reviewed briefly.
Grover JK, Yadav S, Vats V. Medicinal plants of India with anti-diabetic potential. J EthnoPharmacol. 2002;81(1):81-100.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Since ancient times, plants have been an exemplary source of medicine. Ayurveda and other Indian literature mention the use of plants in treatment of various human ailments. India has about 45000 plant species and among them, several thousands have been claimed to possess medicinal properties. Research conducted in last few decades on plants mentioned in ancient literature or used traditionally for diabetes have shown anti-diabetic property. The present paper reviews 45 such plants and their products (active, natural principles and crude extracts) that have been mentioned/used in the Indian traditional system of medicine and have shown experimental or clinical anti-diabetic activity. Indian plants which are most effective and the most commonly studied in relation to diabetes and their complications are: Allium cepa, Allium sativum, Aloe vera, Cajanus cajan, Coccinia indica, Caesalpinia bonducella, Ficus bengalenesis, Gymnema sylvestre, Momordica charantia, Ocimum sanctum, Pterocarpus marsupium, Swertia chirayita, Syzigium cumini, Tinospora cordifolia and Trigonella foenum graecum. Among these we have evaluated M. charantia, Eugenia jambolana, Mucuna pruriens, T. cordifolia, T. foenum graecum, O. sanctum, P. marsupium, Murraya koeingii and Brassica juncea. All plants have shown varying degree of hypoglycemic and anti-hyperglycemic activity.
Gupta SK, Kalaiselvan V, Srivastava S, Agrawal SS, Saxena R. Evaluation of anticataract potential of Triphala in selenite-induced cataract: In vitro and in vivo studies. J Ayurveda Integr Med .2010;1:280-6.http://www.jaim.in.
Abstract.
Triphala (TP) is composed of Emblica officinalis, Terminalia chebula, and Terminalia belerica. The present study was undertaken to evaluate its anticataract potential in vitro and in vivo in a selenite-induced experimental model of cataract. In vitro enucleated rat lenses were maintained in organ culture containing Dulbecco's Modified Eagles Medium alone or with the addition of 100΅M selenite. These served as the normal and control groups, respectively. In the test group, the medium was supplemented with selenite and different concentrations of TP aqueous extract. The lenses were incubated for 24 h at 37°C. After incubation, the lenses were processed to estimate reduced glutathione (GSH), lipid peroxidation product, and antioxidant enzymes. In vivo selenite cataract was induced in 9-day-old rat pups by subcutaneous injection of sodium selenite (25 μmole/kg body weight). The test groups received 25, 50, and 75 mg/kg of TP intraperitoneally 4 h before the selenite challenge. At the end of the study period, the rats' eyes were examined by slit-lamp. TP significantly (P < 0.01) restored GSH and decreased malondialdehyde levels. A significant restoration in the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (P < 0.05), catalase (P < 0.05), glutathione peroxidase (P < 0.05), and glutathione-s-transferase (P < 0.005) was observed in the TP-supplemented group compared to controls. In vivo TF 25mg/kg developed only 20% nuclear cataract as compared to 100% in control. TP prevents or retards experimental selenite-induced cataract. This effect may be due to antioxidant activity. Further studies are warranted to explore its role in human cataract.
Gupta V, Meena A K, Krishna C M , Rao M M, Sannd R, Singh H, Panda P, Padhi M M and Babu Ramesh. Review of plants used as Kshar of family Piperaceae. International Journal of Ayurvedic Medicine.2010;1(2):81-88.
Abstract.
Many herbal remedies individually or in combination have been recommended in various medical treatises for the cure of different diseases. Kshara is a kind of medication described in Ayurveda Texts for the management of various disorders. The genus Piper L. is estimated to contain over 1000 species which are distributed mainly in tropical regions of the world. This review mainly focuses on the plants of family Piperaceae that are used in Kshar so that more research work is carried out in the direction of standardization, therapeutic level determination of Kshar plants.
Hankey A. A test of the systems analysis underlying the scientific theory of Ayurveda's Tridosha. J Altern Complement Med. 2005;11(3):385-90.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
A previous paper hypothesized that the tridosha of Ayurveda--Vata, Pitta, and Kapha--constitute regulatory systems respectively controlling input/output, turnover, and storage; functions systems analysis identifies as fundamental to all open systems. This would make them universal properties of all living organisms, as Ayurveda itself maintains. This paper proposes independent scientific evidence for the proposed identification of the doshas and for the systems analysis on which it is based. In Particular, it points to coenzyme A, a key component of fatty acid Metabolism. Its universal presence in all cells implies that it is an evolutionary invariant ant that the biochemical pathway on which it lies must be exceptionally significant. The systems analysis shows that the pathway connects the cellular functions of energy turnover and energy storage, fundamental to the overall strategy of cell regulation. This, combined with the requirement for the pathway's close regulation, makes it effectively impossible to replace coenzyme A by a combination of simultaneous mutations or sequence of mutations and it should indeed remain invariant during evolution. The universality of coenzyme A is therefore consistent with its identified role, and supports the systems analysis identifying the doshas. Their systems functions survive developmental transformations of evolution with recognizable continuity. By virtue of that, Vata, Pitta, and Kapha can be identified with them in all species.
Herron RE, Fagan JB. Lipophil-mediated reduction of toxicants in humans: an evaluation of an Ayurvedic detoxification procedure. Altern Ther Health Med. 2002;8(5):40-51.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
CONTEXT: Lipophilic toxicants have been associated with hormone disruption, immune system suppression, reproductive disorders, several types of cancer, and other diseases. Due to environmental persistence and bioaccumulation, body burdens of certain toxicants, such as dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE) and
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), appear to be a health risk despite the toxicants' having been banned for decades.OBJECTIVE: To determine whether a safe, standardized, Ayurvedic detoxification procedure can mobilize lipid-soluble toxicants and stimulate their excretion.DESIGN: Cross-sectionaland longitudinal evaluations.SETTING: Southeastern Iowa.PARTICIPANTS: In the cross-sectional study, 48 pArticipants who had undertaken lipophil-mediated detoxification were compared with 40 control subjects. In the prospective, longitudinal evaluation, serum levels were measured in 15 subjects before and after they underwent the detoxification procedure. These 15 subjects served as their own controls.INTERVENTION(S): Ayurvedic lipophil-mediated detoxification procedure.MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Gas chromatographic analysis of 17 serum toxicant levels (9 PCB congeners and 8 pesticides or metabolites) on a lipid-adjusted and wet-weight basis (ng/g) as parts per billion.RESULTS: In the cross-sectional study, gas chromatographic analysis of 9 PCB congeners and 8 pesticides revealed that serum PCB levels were significantly lower in the detoxification subjects than in controls. Trans-nonachlor (TNC), p,p'-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (p,p'-DDE), oxychlordane, and hexachlorobenzene (HCB) levels were also markedly lower in the detoxification group. All subjects had undetectable levels of p,p'-DDT, lindane, and a-hexachlorocyclohexane (a-HCH). Beta-hexachlorocyclohexane (beta-HCH) levels were significantly higher in detoxification subjects than in controls. In the longitudinal evaluation, after treatment, mean levels of PCBs (46%) and beta-HCH (58%) declined significantly in the subjects.CONCLUSIONS: The higher beta-HCH levels in the subjects in the longitudinal study appear to be an anomaly related to diet. The results of the 2 studies generally suggest that lipophil-mediated detoxification may be effective in reducing body burdens of fat-soluble toxicants. As numerous people worldwide are at risk from high body burdens of such lipid-soluble agents, further studies to evaluate this procedure appear warranted.
J Munasinghe TC, Seneviratne CK, Thabrew MI, Abeysekera AM. Antiradical and antilipoperoxidative effects of some plant extracts used by Sri Lankan traditional medical practitioners for cardioprotection. Phytother Res. 2001;15(6):519-23. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are implicated in many pathogenic processes including the cardiovascular system. Detoxification of ROS by antioxidants (AO) therefore affords protection against such diseases. There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that antioxidants contribute to cardioprotection. Therefore, nine plants that are components of Ayurvedic formulations used for the therapy of cardiovascular diseases were investigated to determine whether antioxidant activity is one of the mechanisms by which these plants exert cardioprotection. Initially aqueous freeze dried extracts of the plants were prepared and the antioxidant activity was measured (a) in vitro, by DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging and deoxyribose damage protection assays, and (b) in vivo, by effects on lipid peroxidation. Terminalia Arjuna showed significant DPPH radical scavenging activity with EC(50) 8.3 +/- 0.3 microg/mL (similar to L-ascorbic acid). The potency of this activity was much lower in Cassia fistula (EC(50) = 59.0 +/- 2.7 microg/mL). The other seven extracts demonstrated no such activity in the concentration range tested. In the deoxyribose damage protection assay, T. Arjuna> demonstrated no significant effect in the concentration range 0-20 microg/mL, but above -20 microg/mL concentration (20-125 microg/mL), a pro-oxidant activity was observed (although markedly less than demonstrated by L-ascorbic acid). A similar trend was observed with Vitex negundo. In contrast, C. fistula afforded a 30% protection against such damage at 125 microg/mL concentration. Other plant
extracts did not show any activity in this assay. At a dose of 90 mg/kg (single dose) T. Arjuna, cardiac lipid peroxidation in male Wistar rats was reduced by 38.8% +/- 2.6% (p<0.05) whereas the reduction was only 11.6% +/- 3.5% in the case of C. fistula even at a dose of 120 mg/kg. Of all the plants tested, T. Arjuna demonstrated the highest antioxidant activity. Overall results show that only some plants used in the therapy of cardiovascular disease exert their beneficial effects via antioxidant activity.
Jadhav AN, Bhutani KK. Ayurveda and gynecological disorders.J EthnoPharmacol. 2005;97(1):151-9.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
The science of life--Ayurveda is practiced in India since time immemorial. Besides being cheap and easily available Ayurvedic drugs are considered safe. Moreover, there is surge in the interest in Ayurveda due to quest of alternative medicines. Many of the gynecological disorders being not reported to the physicians, are treated with household remedies in India. The science of Ayurveda deals with these issues in a systematic manner as evident from the classification of diseases available and the number of plant drugs or the combinations thereof available for the treatment. In the present Article, Ayurvedic herbal formulations and single plant drugs used traditionally in treatment of gynecological disorders are described.
Jagtap AG, Shirke SS, Phadke AS. Effect of polyherbal formulation on experimental models of inflammatory bowel diseases. J EthnoPharmacol. 2004 ;90(2-3):195-204. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
A polyherbal Ayurvedic formulation from an ancient authentic classical text of Ayurveda was evaluated for its activity against inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The polyherbal formulation contained four different drugs viz.Bilwa (Aegle marmeloes), Dhanyak (Coriandrum sativum), Musta (Cyperus rotundus) and Vala (Vetiveria zinzanioids). The formulation has been tried before in clinical practice and was found to be useful in certain number of cases of IBD (ulcerative colitis), so was tried in the same form i.e.decoction (aqueous extract) in experimental animals to revalidate the claims of the same. The formulation was tried on two different experimental animal models of inflammatory bowel disease, which are acetic acid-induced colitis in mice and indomethacin-induced enterocolitis in rats. Prednisolone was used as the standard drug for comparison. The formulation showed significant inhibitory activity against inflammatory bowel disease induced in these experimental animal models. The activity was comparable with the standard drug prednisolone. The results obtained established the efficacy of this polyherbal formulation against inflammatory bowel diseases.
Joshi A, Kulkarni A, Chandran S, Jayaraman VK, Kulkarni BD. Nadi Tarangini:a pulse based diagnostic system. Conf Proc IEEE Eng Med Biol Soc.2007;2007:2207-10. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Ayurveda is a traditional medicine and natural healing system in India. Nadi-Nidan (pulse-based diagnosis) is a prominent method in Ayurveda, and is known to dictate all the salient features of a human body. In this paper, we provide details of our procedure for obtaining the complete spectrum of the nadi pulses as a time series. The system Nadi Tarangini1 contains a diaphragm element equipped with strain gauge, a transmitter cum amplifier, and a digitizer for quantifying analog signal. The system acquires the data with 16-bit accuracy with practically no external electronic or interfering noise. Prior systems for obtaining the nadi pulses have been few and far between, when compared to systems such as ECG. The waveforms obtained with our system have been compared with these other similar equipment developed earlier, and is shown to contain more details. The pulse waveform is also shown to have the desirable variations with respect to age of patients, and the pressure applied at the sensing element. The system is being evaluated by Ayurvedic practitioners as a computer-aided diagnostic tool.
Joshi RR. A biostatistical approach to Ayurveda: quantifying the tridosha. J Altern Complement Med. 2004;10(5):879-89. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
OBJECTIVE: To compute quantitative estimates of the tridosha--the qualitative characterization that constitutes the core of diagnosis and treatment in Ayurveda--to provide a basis for biostatistical analysis of this ancient Indian science, which is a promising field of alternative medicine.SUBJECTS: The data sources were 280 persons from among the residents and visitors/training students at the Brahmvarchas Research Centre and Shantikuj, Hardwar, India. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY: A quantitative measure of the tridosha level (for Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) is obtained by applying an algorithmic heuristic approach to the exhaustive list of qualitative features/factors that are commonly used by Ayurvedic doctors. A knowledge-based concept of worth coefficients and fuzzy multiattribute decision functions are used here for regression modeling. VALIDATION AND APPLICATIONS: Statistical validation on a large sample shows the accuracy of this study's estimates with statistical confidence level above 90%. The estimates are also suited for diagnostic and prognostic applications and systematic drug-response analysis of Ayurvedic (herbal and Rasayanam) medicines. An application with regard to the former is elucidated, extensions of which might also be of use in investigating the role of nadis in Ayurvedic healing vis-a-vis acupuncture and acupressure techniques. The importance and scope of this novel approach are discussed.CONCLUSIONS: This pioneering study shows that the concept of tridosha has a sound empirical basis that could be used for the scientific establishment of Ayurveda in a new light.
Jurenka JS. Anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin, a major constituent of Curcuma longa: a review of preclinical and clinical research. Altern Med Rev.2009;14(2):141-53.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Curcuma longa (turmeric) has a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine as a treatment for inflammatory conditions. Turmeric constituents include the three curcuminoids: curcumin (diferuloylmethane; the primary constituent and the one responsible for its vibrant yellow color), demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin, as well as volatile oils (tumerone, atlantone, and Zingiberone), sugars, proteins, and
resins. While numerous Pharmacological activities, including antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, have been attributed to curcumin, this Article focuses on curcumin's anti-inflammatory properties and its use for inflammatory conditions. Curcumin's effect on cancer (from an anti-inflammatory perspective) will also be discussed; however, an exhaustive review of its many anticancer mechanisms is outside the scope of this Article. Research has shown curcumin to be a highly pleiotropic molecule capable of interacting with numerous molecular targets involved in inflammation. Based on early cell culture and animal research, clinical trials indicate curcumin may have potential as a therapeutic agent in diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatitis, arthritis, and chronic anterior uveitis, as well as certain types of cancer. Because of curcumin's rapid plasma clearance and conjugation, its therapeutic usefulness has been somewhat limited, leading researchers to investigate the benefits of complexing curcumin with other substances to increase systemic bioavailability. Numerous in-progress clinical trials should provide an even deeper understanding of the mechanisms and therapeutic potential of curcumin.
Kar AC, Maity SK, Rao MM, Mishra AK. AC 4 - An Ayurvedic contraceptive Agent. Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Siddha. 2002;23(3-4):76-81.
Abstract.:
A study on AC-4 (Coded drug) was carried out CRI (Ay), Kolkata about the contraceptive effect for which 85 women were included. The cases were followed up to 36th cycle. Out of 85 cases, 22 cases are taking medicine and 5 cases show pregnancy due to drug omission. Only 2 cases show side effects and rest cases discontinued due to other reasons.
Kar AC, Rao MM, Devidas KV. Relevance of Proper Collection, Storage and PreserVation of Ayurvedaic Drugs in relation to GMP of ISM Drugs. B.M.E.B.R,New Delhi. 2000;21( 3-4): 66-70.
Abstract.:
Therapeutic uses of plant products have gained considerable momentum in the world during the past decade and India ID one of the major produced and supplier of Ayurvedic Drugs. Since the quantum of the production increased and export market opened up, strict manufacturing practices are to be enforced to keep up quality of these products. This paper explains the quality control of raw drugs at the stage of its collection, preserVation and storage based on Ayurvedic classics and also the importance of its place of cultivation agro-ecological and agro climatic conditions etc. which will ultimately relevant to its therapeutic properties.
Kar AC, Rao MM, Devidas KV. Preventive and curative measures of Slipada (Filariasis) on the basis of Kriyakala. Sachitra Ayurveda.2002;(10): 71-75.
Abstract.:
The disease Slipada , which is described in classical Ayurvedic literature is now well recognized as filariasis as described in modern medicine. Though this disease is not fatal but has a socio economic and psychological
impact on the society. Ayurveda being true to its fundamental concept of diseases does not describe the causative factor as parasites but attributes the disease to doshic vitiation of Kapha involving mamsa and rakta. The objectives of Ayurveda are not only to cure the disease but also prevention of the same before its onset. This is only possible if one understands the evolution of disease process. The concept has been developed in relevance to the fundamental Tridosha theory of Ayurveda and the term satKriyakala has been described in reference to the respective changes n the three doshas. The approach behind the satKriyakala is the early detection of disease and earliest therapeutic intervention so that further progress may be checked as the treatment becomes difficult during the advanced stage of a disease.So before treatment it is more important to know the evolution of disease process. Here in this paper, it has been focused more to undertstand the evolution of Filariasis on the basis of satKriyakala by incorporating the description of Slipada as available in Ayurvedic texts to be presented under the heading of “Nidan” and “Samprapti”.
Khalsa KP. The practitioner's perspective: introduction to Ayurvedic herbalism. J Herb Pharmacother. 2007;7(3-4):129-42. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Ayurveda, the indigenous holistic healing system of India, is a holistic approach to health and lifestyle management that incorporates diet, exercise, life activity routines, psychotherapeutic practices, massage and botanical medicine. Ayurveda focuses on prevention, applying techniques of self-care to restore health balance quickly and effectively. Ayurveda is one of the four large, long-practiced ethnic herbal medicine systems with large extant literatures (along with Western, Chinese and Unani). It affords valuable clinical insights in its own right. Acquiring a basis in Ayurveda will enhance access to south Asian herbs and indigenous medicinal preparations.
Khan S, Balick MJ. Therapeutic plants of Ayurveda: a review of selected clinical and other studies for 166 species. J Altern Complement Med. 2001;7(5):405-515. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
This paper reports on the results of a literature survey involving 166 different species of plants used in the Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia, based on a sampling of the literature available to us. We found a wide range of clinical and other in vivo studies for many of the plant-based therapies utilized in the Ayurvedic system. Of the 166 plants investigated, 72 (43%) had at least one or more human studies and 103 (62%) had one or more animal studies. These results appear to contradict the generally held notion that herbal remedies used in non-Western systems of botanical medicine have not been evaluated in human or in vivo trials. Some of these studies are not always as large or methodologically rigorous as clinical studies reported in major medical journals. Indeed, a critical assessment of the research according to the standards of evidence-based medicine would eliminate many of these studies for lack of rigor according to criteria of randomization, sample size, adequacy of controls, etc. However, the studies do suggest which species might be appropriate for larger and better-controlled trials in the future. Accordingly, a synopsis of the plants, their therapeutic applications, and their clinical or experimental evaluations is presented.
Krishnamurthy MN, Telles S. Assessing depression following two ancient Indian interventions: effects of yoga and Ayurveda on older adults in a residential home. J Gerontol Nurs.2007;33(2):17-23.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
The effects of yoga and Ayurveda on geriatric depression were evaluated in 69 persons older than 60 who were living in a residential home. PArticipants were stratified by age and gender and randomly allocated to three groups: Yoga, Ayurveda, and Wait-list Control. The 15-item Geriatric Depression Scale was used to assess depressive symptoms prior to the intervention, and after 3 months and 6 months post-intervention. PArticipation in one of the three groups lasted 24 weeks. The yoga program (7 hours 30 minutes per week) included physical postures, relaxation techniques, regulated breathing, devotional songs, and lectures. The Ayurveda Group received an herbal preparation twice daily for the whole period. The depression symptom scores of the Yoga Group at both 3 and 6 months decreased significantly, from a group average baseline of 10.6 to 8.1 and 6.7, respectively (p < 0.001, paired t-test). The other groups showed no change. Hence, an integrated approach of yoga including the mental and philosophical aspects in addition to the physical practices was useful for institutionalized older persons.
Kulkarni M, Deopujari JY, Purohit HJ. Synergistic effect of Ayurvedic pearl preparation on enhancing effectiveness of antibiotics. Indian J Exp Biol. 2002;40(7):831-4. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Studies were carried out with Ayurvedic preparations derived from pearl, which include preparations bhasma and pishti. The synergistic effect to reduce the dose of antibiotic was tested against E. coli the test bacterium with ampicillin antibiotic by bore well and disks diffusion methods. It was observed that pearl preparations do not show any antibacterial activity but when used at 200 microg/ml concentration with antibiotics, then even at sub-lethal dose, the antibiotic has effectively shown the results with reduced contact time. The protocol was also tested with the other bacteria like, Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Vibrio cholarae, Salmonella typhi, and Staphylococcus aureus and has shown similar results. The pearl bhasma synergistic effect was also tested with other antibiotics such as erythromycin, kanamycin, and ampicillin.
Kumar A, Singh G, Kumar N. Ayurvedic heritage of J and K: a review of Sri Ranbira Chikitsa Sudha Sara. Bull Indian Inst Hist Med Hyderabad. 2001;31(2):133-8. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
This work reviews the contents of an Ayurvedic treatise "Sri Ranbira Chikitsa Sudha Sara" authored by Kaviraj Neel Kanth in the year 1931 of Vikrami, in 'Takari' script, the official script during the reign of his highness Maharaja Ranbir Singh of Jammu and Kashmir. A copy of the book is presently available with Raghunath
Sanskrit Library, Jammu in torn condition. This is a humble effort by the authors for the exploration of hidden and old Ayurvedic literature of Jammu and Kashmir.
BACKGROUND: Infection is a major problem in the management of wounds. Even though the development of synthetic antimicrobial agents persists, drug resistance and toxicity hinder their way. Many plants with multi-potent pharmaceutical activities may offer better treatment options, and Triphala (dried fruits of Terminalia chebula, Terminalia bellirica, and Phyllanthus emblica) are potential formulations evaluated for healing activity on infected wound as it possesses numerous activities. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Alcoholic extract of Triphala has shown in vitro antimicrobial activity against wound pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Streptococcus pyogenes. An ointment was prepared from the Triphala extract (10% w/w) and assessed for in vivo wound healing on infected rat model by rate of healing, bacterial count, biochemical analysis, and expression of matrix metalloproteinases.RESULTS: The treated group has shown significantly improved wound closure. Assessment of granulation tissue on every fourth day showed significant reduction in bacterial count with significant level of collagen, hexosamine, uronic acid, and superoxide dismutase in the treated group (P < 0.01). Reduction of matrix metalloproteinase expression observed in the treated group by gelatin zymography and immunoblotting confirms our in vivo assessment. CONCLUSIONS: The above results showed the antibacterial, wound healing, and antioxidant activities of Triphala ointment, necessary for the management of infected wounds. Active principles of the Triphala may be further evaluated and used as an excellent therapeutic formulation for infected wounds.
Lahorkar P, Ramitha K, Bansal V, Anantha Narayana DB. A comparative evaluation of medicated oils prepared using Ayurvedic and modified processes.Indian J Pharm Sci.2009;71(6):656-62. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Medicated oils prepared using process as mentioned in Ayurveda are used for external and internal administrations to treat various disorders. Taila pak vidhi provides detailed description of such processes. Medicated oils are prepared by prolonged cooking of sesame oil with pasty mass of herbs and decoction of herbs in presence of large quantity of water. We report preliminary findings of physicochemical and chromatographic profiles of changes brought out by such processes and the role of each component. Changes observed when the processes were altered to deviate from those prescribed in Ayurveda are also reported.
Lal UR, Tripathi SM, Jachak SM, Bhutani KK, Singh IP. RP-HPLC analysis of Jirakadyarishta and chemical changes during fermentation. Nat Prod Commun. 2010;5(11):1767-70. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Jirakadyarishta, an Ayurvedic formulation prepared by the fermentation of a decoction of Cuminum cyminum (seeds) is traditionally used for intestinal disorders. RP-HPLC analysis of the decoction and the final processed formulation revealed that apigenin-7-O-[galacturonide (1 --> 4)-O-glucoside] and luteolin-4'-O-glucoside-7-O-galacturonide) were the two major constituents of the decoction of C. cyminum. Selective hydrolysis of 7-O-glucosides of luteolin and apigenin during fermentation resulted in an increase in the amount of luteolin and apigenin. The 4'-O-glucoside-7-O-galacturonide of luteolin and galacturonide deriVative of apigenin were not hydrolyzed during fermentation. Monomeric phenolics, together with 5-hydroxymethyl furfural (5-HMF), were also introduced into the formulation through the jaggery and other plant materials during fermentation. This communication highlights the importance of the ancient processing methods used in Ayurveda.
Lal UR, Tripathi SM, Jachak SM, Bhutani KK, Singh IP. Chemical changes during fermentation of Abhayarishta and its standardization by HPLC-DAD. Nat Prod Commun. 2010;5(4):575-9. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Abhayarishta is an Ayurvedic formulation prepared traditionally by the fermentation of the decoction of Terminalia chebula (pericarp), Vitis vinifera (fruits), Embelia ribes (fruits) and Madhuca indica (flowers). In the present communication, chemical changes occurring during fermentation in Abhayarishta have been studied for the purpose of its standardization. An HPLC-DAD method for quantitative estimation of selected marker constituents in the formulation has been developed and validated. A comparison of decoction and final processed formulation revealed that major polyphenolics (chebulagic and chebulinic acid) of T. chebula were hydrolyzed to their respective monomers and, consequently, there was an increase in the amount of chebulic acid, gallic acid, ellagic acid and ethyl gallate after fermentation. 5-Hydroxymethyl furfural (5-HMF) was also found in the formulation. Thus, emphasis is laid upon consideration of processing methods of formulation which has been lacking in the standardization of most of Ayurvedic formulations.
Maity SK, Kar AC, Rao MM, Mishra AK. A clinical trial on Vyana vala Vaishamya (Hypertention) by Ayurvedic drugs. Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Siddha. 2000; 21 (3-4): 91-97.
Abstract.:
Vyana Bala Vaishamya hypertension is a common health problem occurring in about 2-15% of population in India and many other countries. So many Ayurvedic physicians are treating this disease successfully. But to give rationales to the effectiveness of Ayurvedic drugs and to provide statistically viable scientific data in the subject, a blind trial had been conducted during the year 1992-1999 at CRI, Calcutta as per the direction of CCRAS, New Delhi. Tagaradi and Usheeradi churna were undertaken for this trial and it was found that Ushiradi Churna was more effective than Tagaradi churna. More than 50% cases showed good response to the treatment. Very few cases showed poor and no response. Regarding the response of individuals group is concerned Usheradi churana is more effective than Tagaradi churna.
Manjunath NK, Telles S. Influence of Yoga and Ayurveda on self-rated sleep in a geriatric population. Indian J Med Res. 2005;121(5):683-90. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Sleep in older persons is characterized by decreased ability to stay asleep, resulting in fragmented sleep and reduced daytime alertness. Pharmacological treatment of insomnia in older persons is associated with hazardous side effects. Hence, the present study was designed to compare the effects of Yoga and Ayurveda on the self rated sleep in a geriatric population.METHODS: Of the 120 residents from a home for the aged, 69 were stratified based on age (five year intervals) and randomly allocated to three groups i.e.Yoga (physical postures, relaxation techniques, voluntarily regulated breathing and lectures on yoga philosophy), Ayurveda (a herbal preparation), and Wait-list control (no intervention). The groups were evaluated for self-assessment of sleep over a one week period at baseline, and after three and six months of the respective interventions.RESULTS: The Yoga group showed a significant decrease in the time taken to fall asleep (approximate group average decrease: 10 min, P<0.05), an increase in the total number of hours slept (approximate group average increase: 60 min, P< 0.05) and in the feeling of being rested in the morning based on a rating scale (P<0.05) after six months. The other groups showed no significant change. INTERPRETATION AND CONCLUSION: Yoga practice improved different aspects of sleep in a geriatric population.
Meena A K, Bansal Parveen, Kumar Sanjiv and Rao M M. “Plants Herbal Wealth as Potential source of Ayurvedic Drug” .Asian Journal of Tradition Medicines.2009;4(4):51-69.
Abstract.
Nearly 80 % of the global population still depends upon the herbal drugs for their health care. There has been an increase demand for the pharmaceutical products of Ayurveda in all over the world because of fact that the allopathic drugs have a side effect. In the present context the Ayurvedic system of medicine is widely accepted and practiced by peoples no only in India but also in the developed countries- such as Europe, USA, Japan, China, Canada etc. Plant based therapy are marked due to its low cost, easy availability based on generation to generation knowledge. However, over commercial exploitation of these plant products and frequent degradation of natural resources are reported to be major threats to medicinal plants in India. The aim of the present review is to understand the knowledge of plants used for Ayurvedic preparations in relation to their use as therapeutic agents, Pharmacological properties, medicinal plants being imported; medicinal plant parts being exported, endangered medicinal plants and availability of medicinal plants in different bio-geographical zones of India so that the data and information of this review could be utilized in drawing strategies for rational and more scientific use of medicinal plants in a way that can be extended for future scientific investigation in different aspects. The development of this traditional Indian system of medicines with perspectives of safety, efficacy and quality will help not only to preserve this traditional heritage but also to rationalize the use of natural products in health care without side effects.
Meena A K, kaur Ramanjeet, Singh Brijendra, Yadav A K, Uttam Singh, Sachan Ayushy, Pal Bhavana, Rao M M. “ Review On Antifungal Activities of Ayurvedic Medicinal Plants” Drug Invention Today.2010;2(2):146-148.
Abstract.
Infectious diseases represent a critical problem to health and they are one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The resistance to antibiotics and with the toxicity during prolonged treatment with several drugs due to this medicinal plants are widely used by the traditional medical practitioners for curing various diseases in their day to day practice. Since ancient times, plants have been an exemplary source of medicine. During the past several years, there has been an increasing incidence of fungal infections due to a growth in immune compromised population such as organ transplant recipients, cancer and HIV/AIDS patients. The presented review summarizes the information concerning the new profile of antifungal drugs obtaining from medicinal plants.
Meena A K, Rao M M, Kandale Ajit, Sannd R, Sharma Kiran , Niranjan U, Yadav A K. “Standardisation of Desmodium gangeticum – A Traditional Ayurvedic Plant” Drug Invention Today.2010;2(2):182-184 .
Abstract.
Desmodium gangeticum is a traditional Ayurvedic plant used for centuries as an anthelminthic, anti-catarrahal, diuretic, expectorant, astringent, febrifuge, nervine tonic, anti diarrheal, bronchiodilator, vasopressor, analgesic, antipyretic, cardio tonic, stimulant, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. The whole plant, its extract and isolates have been extensively investigated in several laboratories for their different biological activities. In addition researchers have evaluated the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunomodulatory and other Pharmacological effects of Desmodium gangeticum preparations/extracts.
Meena A K, Rao M M, Komal Preet, Padhi M M, Singh Arjun, Babu Ramesh. Comparative Study on Family Zingiberaceae Plants Used In Ayurvedic Drugs. International Journal of Pharmaceutical and Clinical Research. 2010;2(2): 58-60.
Abstract.
The present Article attempts to compare physico-chemical parameters of Zingiber officinalis Roxb.Hedychium spicatum Ham ex Smith , Curcuma longa Linn belonging to common family Zingiberaceae. Each of them is considered to have huge medicinal value in Ayurveda, Sidhha and Unani traditional medicines. Since ancient times, these drugs are used according to their medical value. Investigation of such traditionally used medicinal plants is thus valuable on two levels, firstly, as a source of potential chemo therapeutic drugs and secondly, as a measure of safety for the continued use of medicinal plants. The present paper attempts to evaluate the physicochemical parameters like PH, Loss on drying at 105°C, Water soluble extract, Alcohol soluble extract, Total Ash, Acid insoluble ash and Thin layer chromatography. The study revealed specific identities for crude drug taken which will be useful in identification and control to adulterations of the raw drug.
Meena A K, Rao MM, Rao V Nageswara, Komalpreet, Padhi MM and Babu Ramesh. Comparative Study of Various Plants of Piperaceae Family Commonly Used in Ayurvedic Formulations. Research Journal Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry.2010; 2(5): 407-410.
Abstract.:
The present Article attempts to compare TLC and physico-chemical parameters of P. nigrum Linn.Piper cubeba Linn.Piper longum Linn. and Piper chaba Hunter belonging to common family Piperaceae. Each of them is considered to have huge medicinal value in Ayurveda, Sidhha and Unani traditional medicines. Since ancient times, these drugs are used according to their medical value. Investigation of such traditionally used medicinal plants
is thus valuable on two levels, firstly, as a source of potential chemo therapeutic drugs and secondly, as a measure of safety for the continued use of medicinal plants. The present paper attempts to evaluate the physicochemical parameters like pH, Loss on drying at 105°C, Water soluble extract, Alcohol soluble extract, Total Ash, Acid insoluble ash and thin layer chromatography. The study revealed specific identities for crude drug taken which will be useful in identification and control to adulterations of the raw drug.
Meena A K, Sachan Ayushy, Kaur Ramanjeet, Pal Bhavana, Rao M M, Singh Brijendra and Mishra Santosh Kumar. Quality Assessment of Different Variants of Yogaraj Guggulu. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance. 2010;2(2):10-12.
Abstract.
Yogaraj -Guggulu is a widely used Ayurvedic formulation. Standardisation of the Ayurvedic medicine, Yogaraj a Guggulu has been achieved by following modern scientific quality control procedures. It has been shown to have significant anti-inflammatory activity in formaldehyde-induced arthritis and in croton oil granuloma. For the standardization of this drug physico-chemical parameters were carried out such as moisture content, ash values, extractability in water and alcohol were carried out. Thin Layer Chromatography studies were also carried out to ascertain the quality of this drug.
Mohapatra S, Reddy KR, Jha CB. Historical review of Svarna Makshika. Bull Indian Inst Hist Med Hyderabad. 2007;37(2):153-66. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
The old age Ayurvedic claim about the therapeutic importance of metals and mineral bhasmas are time tasted. To make available the evidence for use of metals and minerals in therapeutics and to provide the knowledge of processing techniques in ancient India it is very much necessary to look over the history. Rasa shastra is the branch of Ayurvedic science which deals with the pharmaceutical processings of the metals and minerals.
Svarna Makshika is one of the most important materials described in various Rasa literatures as well as in Sarmhitas and in other Ayurvedic texts. Going through the different literatures its different features, geological distributions and various processing techniques like Shodhana, marana are found. In Samhita period only the features were described but during 7th Cen. AD and onwards its processings were found. Now a day Svarrna Maksika is correlated with chalcopyrite by modern metallurgists. The features of chalcopyrite are also given to assist the more study in this regard. In the current paper it is tried to collect and compile all the related area about Svarna Makshika from all possible ancient literary resources as well as from possible modern texts, to facilitate further research.
Mondal S, Mirdha BR, Mahapatra SC. The science behind sacredness of Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum Linn.). Indian J Physiol Pharmacol. 2009 ;53(4):291-306.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Medicinal properties of Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum Linn) are known for thousand years to various civilizations of the world. This medicinal herb is considered as a sacred plant by the Hindus in the Indian subcontinent. Scientific explorations of traditional belief of medicinal properties of Tulsi have got momentum mostly after the middle of the 20th century. In the present review, efforts have been made to sum up different aspects of scientific studies on this medicinal plant. Scientific evidences are available on various medicinal aspects i.e. antimicrobial, adaptogenic, antidiabetic, hepato-protective, anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, radioprotective, immunomodulatory, neuro-protective, cardio-protective, mosquito repellent etc. to name a few. Most of these evidences are based on in-vitro, experimental and a few human studies.
Mukherjee PK, Wahile A. Integrated approaches towards drug development from Ayurveda and other Indian system of medicines. J EthnoPharmacol. 2006;103(1):25-35.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Biodiversity of natural resources has served not only for the primary human needs but also for health care, since time immemorial. The Indian subcontinent, with the history of one of the oldest civilization, harbors many traditional health care systems. Their development was supported by the diverse biodiversity in flora and fauna due to variations in geographical landscaping. Ayurveda, whose history goes back to 5000 b.c.is one of the ancient health care systems. The Ayurveda was developed through daily life experiences with the mutual relationship between mankind and nature. The ancient text of Ayurveda reports more than 2000 plant species for their therapeutic potentials. Besides Ayurveda, other traditional and folklore systems of health care were developed in the different time periods in Indian subcontinent, where more than 7500 plant species were used. According to a WHO estimate, about 80% of the world population relies on traditional systems of medicines for primary health care, where plants form the dominant component over other natural resources. Renewed interest of developing as well as developed countries in the natural resources has opened new horizons for the exploration of natural sources with the perspectives of safety and efficacy. The development of these traditional systems of medicines with the perspectives of safety, efficacy and quality will help not only to preserve this traditional heritage but also to rationalize the use of natural products in the health care. Until recent past, the
nature was considered as a compendium for templates of new chemical entities (NCEs). The plant species mentioned in the ancient texts of these Ayurveda and other Indian systems of medicines may be explored with the modern scientific approaches for better leads in the health care.
Murali Krishna C, Gupta V, Bansal P, Kumar S, Sannd R, Narayana A. Review on plants mainly used for the preparation of kshar sutra. International Journal of Ayurvedic Medicine. 2010;1(1):12-22
Many herbal remedies individually or in combination have been recommended in various medical treatises for the cure of different diseases. Ksharsutra- an Ayurvedic para-surgical measure is used the treatment of Nadi Vrana (sinus), Bhagandara (fistula- in - ano), arbuda (excision of small benign tumour) etc. by using different medicinal plants. The standard kshar sutra is prepared by using snuhi ksheera (latex of Euphorbia nerrifolia Linn), apamarg kshar (water extract of ashes of Achyranthus aspera Linn plant) and haridra powder (powder of Curcuma longa L). This review mainly focuses on the plants that are used in preparation of Ksharsutra so that more research work is carried out in the direction of standardization, therapeutic level determination of Ksharsutra plants.
Narahari SR, Ryan TJ, Mahadevan PE, Bose KS, PRasanna KS. Integrated management of filarial lymphedema for rural communities. Lymphology. 2007;40(1):3-13. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
The Global Alliance for the Elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis (GAELF) has recommended exploring local health traditions of skin care and a low cost treatment paradigm for rural communities has been proposed by Vaqas and Ryan. Our case study incorporates these promising treatments for use in treating filariasis in rural communities. Patients having lymphedema of one or both lower limbs (skin: normal, thickened or with trophic/warty changes) received treatment components from Ayurveda, yoga and biomedicine simultaneously: including soap wash, phanta soaking, Indian manual lymph drainage (IMLD), pre- and post-IMLD yoga exercises, and compression using bandages for 194 days, along with diet restrictions and oral herbal medicines indicated for "elephantiasis" in Ayurveda. Entry points when infected were treated with biomedical drugs. The study was conducted in the reverse Pharmacology design. 112 patients and 149 lower limbs completed 194 days of treatment during 2003-2006. Significant improvements were observed in the limb circumference measurements and the frequency of acute dermatolymphangioadenitis, use of preventive antibiotics, and reduction in the number of entry points were also improved. The objective to obtain significant benefit for a common problem using locally available, sustainable and affordable means has been achieved. It has not been our purpose to show that the regimen employed is better than another but the results do pose the question--"Are
there components of Ayurvedic medicine that deserve further study?" It is important to understand that the regimen has been delivered mostly at home and that pArticipants we have treated, representing a population suffering from a common problem, have not had access to effective conserVative therapy that is culturally acceptable, safe, and efficacious.
Narahari SR, Ryan TJ, Aggithaya MG, Bose KS, PRasanna KS. Evidence-based approaches for the Ayurvedic traditional herbal formulations: toward an AyurvedicCONSORT model. J Altern Complement Med. 2008;14(6):769-76. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
This paper considers the problem of evaluating multimodal integrative medicine treatments for complex pathologic conditions. The example is given of evaluation of highly successful treatments of lymphedema using Ayurvedic and Yoga medicine practices together with modern medicine. For a framework to evaluate such a complex intervention, we base our proposal on Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) guidelines.
Nohr LA, Rasmussen LB, Straand J. Resin from the mukul myrrh tree, guggul, can it be used for treating hypercholesterolemia? A randomized, controlled study.Complement Ther Med. 2009;17(1):16-22.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
BACKGROUND: Guggul, herbal extract from resin of the Commiphora mukul tree, is widely used in Asia as a cholesterol-lowering agent based on Indian Ayurvedic medicine. Its popularity for this use is increasing in the US and Western Europe. Guggulsterones, the presumed bioactive compounds of guggul, may antagonise two nuclear hormone receptors involved in cholesterol Metabolism, which is a possible explanation for hypolipidemic effects of these extracts. However, publications of efficacy data on the use of guggul extracts in Western populations are scarce.OBJECTIVE: To study the efficacy of a guggul-based formulation (short: guggul) on blood lipids in healthy adults with moderately increased cholesterol.METHODS: Double-blind, randomised, placebo controlled trial in Norwegian general practice. 43 women and men, age 27-70, with moderately increased cholesterol, randomised to use 2160mg guggul (4 capsules) daily, or placebo for 12 weeks.OUTCOME MEASURES: Mean change in total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and total cholesterol/HDL-C ratio compared with baseline. Lipids were analysed at baseline, and at 6 and 12 weeks. In addition, unexpected events and adverse effects were recorded.RESULTS: Two dropouts, one withdrawal, and incomplete lab results for six persons left 34 pArticipants to accomplish the trial (18-guggul, 16-placebo) with complete lab test data. After 12 weeks, mean levels of total cholesterol and HDL-C in the active group were significantly reduced compared with the placebo group. However, the mean levels of LDL-C, triglycerides, and total cholesterol/HDL-C ratio between the two groups did not change significantly. Ten guggul users (vs. four in the placebo group) reported side effects: mild gastrointestinal discomfort (n=7), possible thyroid problems (n=2), and generalized skin rash (n=1). The latter resulted in withdrawal from trial.CONCLUSIONS: Even if total cholesterol and HDL-C were
significantly reduced, the clinical magnitude of this remains obscure. More and larger studies are needed to establish effects and safety of guggul-based formulations in the treatment for hypercholesterolemia.
Padhi MM, Das B, Audichya KC, Rao MM. Some important Ayurvedic literatures from the manuscripts available at Orissa (1.Chikitsarnava). Bulletin of Indian Institute of History of Medicine. 2005;35:33-40.
Abstract.:
In the treasure of Ayurvedic literature many texts are missing or pArtially available. Only references or few verses from many such texts are mentioned in later texts. Unfortunately a large number of Ayurvedic texts are explored till today are likely to exist in palm leaf manuscripts, which are decaying or undergoing permanent annihilation. As such many unique and valuable informations contained in these texts are being lost. Though several Institutions have taken up work on literary Research, only few texts have been published during past decades, The present paper highlights the salient features of the text “Chikisarnava” authored by Visvanath Sena of 16th century of Orissa. Though his text on Pathypathya has already been published, which has a got a place in the pages of history of Ayurveda, a very little is known about this important text on therapeutics. Various aspects of this text and its author have been discussed to bring it into the knowledge of fraternity of Ayurvedic physicians and Sanskrit scholars.
Padhi MM, Das B, Rao MM. Role of Jalaukacharan (Leech application) in the treatment of Vicharchika (Eczema). Ayurveda Maha Sammelan Patrika.2007;(94/2): 31-33.
Abstract.:
In Ayurveda specific skin diseases causing long term discoloration and other problems have been grouped as Kustha. Kustha has been further classified as MahaKustha and Ksudra Kustha comprising of 11 and 7 types of diseases respectively. Vicharchika is one out of 11 Ksudra Ksudrain which all the three basic humors are told to be vitiated. Further there is difference in the description of clinical features of this disease. The KayaChikitsa group of schools like Charak, Vagbhata have narrated it as SaKandu, (itching), Pidaka (lesion, macules, pustules etc), Sayba (reddish-black) and Vahusrava or Lasikaddya (with much exudates) while Sushruta and Bhoja describe it with Kandu (itching), Arti (Pain), Ruksha (rough or dry) and akin to oozing eczema and dry eczema. This disease entityalso comes under the group of Raktapraqdosaj diseases.Since it is an allergic disorder sometimes one may know the Particular external factor causing the reaction, but very often some internal factors cannot be detected. Though the disease is not fatal, it poses serious cosmetic problem and discomfort. Very often it replaces leaving thickness of skin like bark of a tree with discoloration/disfiguration of the part and formulation of crusts or scales. The oozing tyupe of eczema gets secondary infection with bacteria, fungus etc. and cause more discomport. In modern system of medicine very often temporary relief is obtained by using steroidal or non steroidal drugs. In case of Ayurvedic medicines also tough there is a better chance of relief one has to take a number of medicines for long period.
Padhi MM, Das B, Srinivas P, Kori VK, Nanda GC, Rao MM, Tewari NS, Audichya KC. Efficacy of brahmi yoga in Vyanabala Vaishamya (Hypertension) – A clinical study.Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Siddha. 2009;30(3):65-74.
Abstract.:
Hypertension is one of the major risk factors for cardiac vascular mortality which accounts for 20-50% of all deaths. Most of the allopathic drugs have minor side effects and since multiple drugs have to be taken for a longer period, non compliance is also a major problem. With an aim to evolve effective herbal preparation a compound namely ‘Brahmi Yoga’ was tried on 113 patients. Assessment was done according to changes in measurement of systolic and diastolic blood pressure as well as according to changes in severity of related symptoms like Headache, Dizziness, Irritability, Insomnia, Fatigue and weakness. The analysis of results indicated statistically higher significant effect of the drug. The overall results indicated Good response in 50(44.2%), Fair response in 45(39.8%), Poor response in 17(15.04%) and no response in 01 (0.8%) case. It is suggested to make further study of this formulation in any extract form.
Padhi MM, Rana DK, Rao MM. Some explorative information regarding JwaratimiRabhaskara and its author Kayastha chamunda. Bulletin of Indian Institute of History of Medicine. 2005;35(2); 93-99.
Abstract.:
Out of the treasure of Ayurvedic literature, a few texts have come into lime light while some are in dark and available in incomplete form. But many names of the texts with unknown or known authors have been quoted by different subsequent authors in their texts or in the explications by their commentators for which complete textare not available at present. Among the texts on specific diseases, one notable work is “JwaratimiRabhaskara” written by Jyastha Camunda. Nowhere a detailed account of author’s identity, time and place has been mentioned, while short references are available in some historical books, However manuscripts of this text are available in many repositories of our country. In this Article an attempt has been made to establish the identity of the author, period of the text and also to highlight the salient features of this text.
Padhi MM, Rao MM, Sharma MM, Hota NP. A critical study of the manuscripts of Paryaya Muktavali available at Orissa. Bull Indian Inst Hist Med Hyderabad. 2007;37(1):81-6. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Though the Nidana book of Madhavakara has been very popular among Ayurvedic fraternity his other deeds on Dravyaguna, Chikitsa etc. could not come to lime light due to lack of sufficient number of manuscripts for comparison and editing. One such text is Paryaya Muktavali, manuscripts of which are plentily available in the State of Orissa. This modified text redacted by Hari Charana Sena, is a bright example of scribal error and missing of verses which occur during repeated scribe in palm leaf manuscript. This is a lexicon of drugs, which is prime necessity of Dravyaguna and Rasashastra. Publication of such text will be an addition to the treasure of Ayurvedic texts.
Pancabhai TS, Kulkarni UP, Rege NN. Validation of therapeutic claims of Tinospora cordifolia: a review. Phytother Res. 2008;22(4):425-41.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
This review Article attempts to correlate Ayurvedic Pharmacology and therapeutic claims for Tinospora cordifolia (Tc) with the evidence generated using scientific research methodology. In the present paper, a brief description of Ayurvedic Pharmacology of the plant is presented. The work carried out by researchers using extracts of Tc in various areas such as diabetes, liver damage, free radical mediated injury, infections, stress and cancer have been reviewed. Also discussed are the immunomodulatory, diuretic, antiinflammatory, analgesic, anticholinesterase and gastrointestinal protective effects. An attempt has been made to provide the readers with the array of outcome variables, which can be further worked upon in clinical studies. Finally, this paper puts forth issues that need to be addressed by researchers in the future.
Panda AK, Debnath SK. Overdose effect of aconite containing Ayurvedic Medicine ('Mahashankha Vati). Int J Ayurveda Res. 2010;1(3):183-6.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
There are chances that the use of larger than recommended dose of Ayurvedic medicines containing aconite can produce drug reactions. Vatsanabha (Aconitum ferox Wall.) is a very well-known ingredient of Ayurvedic formulations and is prescribed as an antipyretic, analgesic, anti-rheumatic, appetizer and digestive. The recommended dose of purified Vatsanabha (A. ferox Wall.) root is 15 mg. We present a case of hypotension and bradycardia due to aconite poisoning caused by overdosing of an Ayurvedic medicine (Mahashankha Vati), which was primarily managed by Ayurvedic treatment.
Panda Purnendu, Meena AK, Rao MM, Sannd R, Reddy Govind, Padhi MM and Babu Ramesh. Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Singhanada Guggulu and Vatari Guggulu: A Pharmacological Study. Research J. Pharmacology and Pharmacodynamics.2011;3(1): 17-18.
Abstract.:
Singhanada Guggulu and Vatari Guggulu are well known Ayurvedic Guggulu formulations which have been used since 11th century AD. for the treatment of disease Amavata (Rheumatoid Arthritis):. Both the trial drugs are contain same ingredients i.e Triphala, Guggulu, gandhaka and eranda taila, but their method of preparations are different. To evaluate the anti inflammatory activity of the trial drugs the animal experiment has carried out by Carrageenin induced hind paw oedema test. The trial drug Singhanada Guggulu found significant suppression while Vatari Guggulu produced only weak suppression in paw oedema of experimental animals.
Pandey MM, Rastogi S, Rawat AK. Saussurea costus: botanical, chemical and Pharmacological review of an Ayurvedic medicinal plant. J EthnoPharmacol. 2007;110(3):379-90.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Saussurea costus (Falc.) Lipschitz, syn Saussurea lappa C.B. Clarke is a well known and important medicinal plant widely used in several indigenous systems of medicine for the treatment of various ailments, viz. asthma, inflammatory diseases, ulcer and stomach problems. Sesquiterpene lactones have been reported as the major phytoconstituents of this species. Different Pharmacological experiments in a number of in vitro and in vivo models have convincingly demonstrated the ability of Saussurea costus to exhibit anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer, anticancer and hepatoprotective activities, lending support to the rationale behind several of its traditional uses. Costunolide, dehydrocostus lactone and cynaropicrin, isolated from this plant, have been identified to have potential to be developed as bioactive Molecules. Due to the remarkable biological activity of Saussurea costus and its constituents it will be appropriate to develop them as a medicine. The present review is an up-to-date and comprehensive analysis of the botany, chemistry, Pharmacology and traditional and folkloric uses of Saussurea costus.
Patwardhan B, Bodeker G. Ayurvedic genomics: establishing a genetic basis for mind-body typologies. J Altern Complement Med. 2008;14(5):571- 6.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
BACKGROUND: Ayurveda, India's natural health care tradition, has a unique way of classifying human population based on individual constitution or Prakriti. Ayurveda's tridosha theory identifies principles of motion (Vata), Metabolism (Pitta), and structure (Kapha) as discrete phenotypic groupings. Patwardhan et al. (2005) hypothesized in a paper published in this journal that there is a genetic connotation to Prakriti and as proof of this concept showed a correlation between HLA alleles and Prakriti type, establishing a rationale and preliminary experimental support for the concept of an association between HLA alleles and the Ayurvedic tridosha theory of individual Prakriti types. This work is both part of and a catalyst for a wider revolution in the scientific investigation of Ayurveda in India, referred to as "Ayurvedic biology" and "AyuGenomics." Subsequently, Chen et al. (2007) reported a similar study in this journal using a classification based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of a genetic basis for both Ayurvedic and TCM classifications indicate a commonality between Asia's great medical traditions in their diagnostic typologies and a genetic basis for Asian traditional medicine's theory of discrete and discernable groupings of psycho-physiologic differences. Accordingly, new horizons have opened for collaborative East-East research and for an individualized approach to disease management and activation of the full range of human potential, as Articulated in Ayurveda and TCM.
Patwardhan Bhushan, Mashelkar Raghunath Anant. Traditional medicine-inspired approaches to drug discovery: can Ayurveda show the way forward?. Drug Discovery Today.2009;14(15-16):804-811.
Abstract.
Drug discovery strategies based on natural products and traditional medicines are re-emerging as attractive options. We suggest that drug discovery and development need not always be confined to new molecular entities. Rationally designed, carefully standardized, synergistic traditional herbal formulations and botanical drug products with robust scientific evidence can also be alternatives. A reverse Pharmacology approach, inspired by traditional medicine and Ayurveda, can offer a smart strategy for new drug candidates to facilitate discovery process and also for the development of rational synergistic botanical formulations.
Patwardhan K, Gehlot S, Singh G, Rathore HC. Global challenges of graduate level Ayurvedic education: A survey. Int J Ayurveda Res. 2010;1(1):49-54.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
In the present day scenario, Ayurveda is globally being perceived in several contradictory ways. Poor quality of Ayurveda graduates produced as a result of poorly structured and poorly regulated education system is at least one of the important factors responsible for this scenario. The present study was carried out to evaluate the 'Global challenges of graduate level Ayurvedic education' and is based on the responses of Ayurvedic students and Ayurvedic teachers from various educational institutions of India to a methodically validated questionnaire. As the study indicates, the poor standard of Ayurvedic education in India is definitely a cause of concern. The curriculum of Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) course of studies is required to be reviewed and restructured. The syllabi are required to be updated with certain relevant topics like laws governing the intellectual property rights, basic procedures of standardization of medicinal products, fundamental methods of evaluating the toxicity of the medicinal products, essentials of healthcare management and the basics of cultivation and marketing of medicinal plants. Furthermore, the study suggests that the Ayurvedic academicians are required to be trained in standard methods of research and documentation skills, and the educational institutions are required to be encouraged to contribute their share in building up the evidence base for Ayurveda in the form of quality education and research.
Ponnusankar S, Pandit S, Babu R, Bandyopadhyay A, Mukherjee PK. Cytochrome P450 inhibitory potential of Triphala--a Rasayana from Ayurveda. J EthnoPharmacol. 2011;133(1):120-5.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: 'Triphala' is one of the age-old, most commonly used polyherbal preparation from Ayurveda as Rasayana drug.AIM OF THE STUDY: This study was aimed at evaluating the effect of 'Triphala' on drug modulating enzymes to assess its safety through its potential to interact with co-administered drugs.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The cytochrome P450 inhibitory effect of 'Triphala' formulation was investigated on rat liver microsomes using CYP450-CO complex assay and on individual isoform such as CYP3A4 and 2D6 using fluorescence screening. RP-HPLC method was developed to standardize 'Triphala' and its individual components using gallic acid as analytical marker compound.RESULTS: RP-HPLC analysis demonstrated the presence of gallic acid (4.30±2.09 mg/g) in the formulation. The formulation showed 23% inhibition of the rat liver microsomes through CYP450-CO complex
assay which is comparatively less when compared with the individual components. Further, the effect of standardized formulation dissolved in ethanol showed CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 inhibitory activity at the IC(50) values of 119.65±1.91 μg/ml and 105.03±0.98 μg/ml respectively. Gallic acid was also found to inhibit both the isoforms at the IC(50) valuesof87.24±1.11 μg/ml and 92.03±0.38 μg/ml respectively.CONCLUSIONS: Various concentrations of the formulation and its individual components showed significantly less inhibitory activity (p<0.001) on individual isoforms when compared with the positive control. Assessment on the in vitro effect of 'Triphala' on drug modulating enzymes has important implications for predicting the likelihood of herb-drug interactions if these are administered concomitantly.
Posmontier B, Teitelbaum M. An Ayurvedic approach to postpartum depression.Holist Nurs Pract. 2009; 23(4):201-14.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Ayurvedic medicine has existed for more than 5000 years but is only recently receiving recognition in current medical literature. The purpose of this Article is to present an overview of Ayurvedic medicine, describe Ayurvedic treatment of postpartum depression, discuss concerns about herbal preparations, and discuss implications for nursing practice and research.
Possemiers Sam, Bolca Selin, Verstraete Willy, Heyerick Arne. The intestinal microbiome: A separate organ inside the body with the metabolic potential to influence the bioactivity of botanicals. Fitoterapia.2011;82(1):53-66.
Abstract.
For many years, it was believed that the main function of the large intestine was the resorption of water and salt and the facilitated disposal of waste materials. However, this task definition was far from complete, as it did not consider the activity of the microbial content of the large intestine. Nowadays it is clear that the complex microbial ecosystem in our intestines should be considered as a separate organ within the body, with a metabolic capacity which exceeds the liver with a factor 100. The intestinal microbiome is therefore closely involved in the first-pass Metabolism of dietary compounds. This is especially true for botanical supplements, which are now marketed for various health applications. Being of natural origin, their structural building blocks, such as polyphenols, are often highly recognized by the human and especially the intestinal microbial Metabolism machinery. Intensive Metabolism results in often low circulating levels of the original products, with the consequence that final health effects of botanicals are often related to specific active metabolites which are produced in the body rather than being related to the product's original composition. Understanding how such metabolic processes contribute to the in situ exposure is therefore crucial for the proper interpretation of biological responses. A multidisciplinary approach, characterizing the food and phytochemical intake as well as the metabolic potency of the gut microbiota, while measuring biomarkers of both exposure and response in target tissues, is therefore of critical importance. With polyphenol Metabolism as example, this review describes how the incorporation of microbial Metabolism as an important variable in the evaluation of the final bioactivity
of botanicals strongly increases the relevance and predictive value of the outcome. Moreover, knowledge about intestinal processes may offer innoVative strategies for targeted product development.
Prakash S, Hernandez GT, Dujaili I, Bhalla V. Lead poisoning from an Ayurvedic herbal medicine in a patient with chronic kidney disease. Nat Rev Nephrol. 2009;5(5):297-300. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
BACKGROUND: A 60-year-old man with a history of diabetes and hypertension was referred to a nephrology clinic for investigation of his elevated serum creatinine level.
INVESTIGATIONS: Physical examination; laboratory investigations, including measurement of whole-blood lead level, body lead burden and urine albumin:creatinine ratio; history of lead exposure and use of herbal medical products; and renal ultrasonography.DIAGNOSIS: Stage 3 chronic kidney disease that was probably worsened by consumption of lead in the form of an Ayurvedic herbal remedy. MANAGEMENT: Cessation of the herbal product, followed by lead-chelation therapy with calcium disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid. The patient's whole-body lead burden and blood lead level decreased to acceptable levels and his serum creatinine value was within the normal range at final follow-up.
Prakash VB, Prakash S, Sharma R, Pal SK. Sustainable effect of Ayurvedic formulations in the treatment of nutritional anemia in adolescent students. J Altern Complement Med. 2010;16(2):205-11.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
OBJECTIVES: Anemia is a serious health problem in Indian school children. High prevalence of anemia has been reported in nonpregnant adolescent girls. An investigation was initiated to study the effect of two non-iron-containing Ayurvedic preparations-Sootshekhar Rasa plus Sitopaladi Churna-in improving nutritional anemia among adolescent students.DESIGN: This was a single-blinded, randomized, controlled study. SETTING: The study setting was Dehradun district, North India. SUBJECTS: The subjects comprised a total of 1646 boys and girls, aged 11-18 years, attending school in Dehradun district. INTERVENTION: As per World Health Organization guidelines, a total of 1322 adolescent anemic students were randomly divided into 5 groups. Students of group I (control) received starch. Group II, III, and IV students received Sootshekhar Rasa (SR) plus Sitopaladi Churna (SC) in various combinations, namely, SR 125 mg + SC 500 mg daily, SR 250 mg + SC 400 mg daily, and SR 250 mg + SC 400 mg weekly, respectively. Group V student were given iron and folic acid tablet. All the students received treatment for 90 days and were followed up for the next 180 days. OUTCOME MEASURE: The outcome measure was to evaluate the effect of Sootshekhar Rasa plus Sitopaladi Churna in improving nutritional anemia. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of anemia was found to be 81.3%. At baseline, the mean hemoglobin (Hb) was 97.4 +/- 13.2 g/L and ranged from 96.4 +/- 0.8 g/L to 98.3 +/- 0.8 g/L in various groups. At end of follow-up (day 270), a significant increase in Hb levels from baseline was observed in all treatment groups; however, the Hb gain (6.9 +/- 0.6 g/L) in group III and group V (3.64 +/- 0.56 g/L) differed significantly from the control group. A total of 155 students dropped out of the study due to various reasons not related to treatment. No adverse side-effect of Ayurvedic medication was noted in any
student. CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that a daily dose of Sootshekhar Rasa (250 mg) plus Sitopaladi Churna (400 mg) can produce sustainable improvement of nutritional anemia in adolescent students.
Prasad GP, Neelima G, Pratap GP, Swamy GK. VŗksAyurveda of paraśara—an ancient treatise on plant science. Bull Indian Inst Hist Med Hyderabad. 2006;36(1):63-74. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
VŗksAyurveda of Paraśara is a great contribution to the Botany in ancient India. N.N. Sircar and Roma sarkar edited this text with English translation. Notes with comparative references of modern botany were added. This book can be placed in all probability in between 1st century B.C to 4th century A.D by its linguistic style. Many scientific branches of Botany including origin of life, ecology, distribution of forests, morphology, classification, nomenclature, histology and physiology were dealt in this ancient work. Though it is presumed that this book was written by Paraśara to teach Botany to preparatory to Ayurveda studies to ancient Ayurveda students, it is true to the Ayurveda personals and other disciplines related to Botany of present day as well. Aim of this Article is to attract the attention of all scholars who are related to Ayurveda and Botany and to feel the depth of the knowledge of ancient Indian botany.
Prasad GP, Sastri PS, Swamy RK. Bhisaksudharnavam--an unexplored precious Andhrasampradaya Ayurveda Grantha. Bull Indian Inst Hist Med Hyderabad. 2005;35(1):77-82. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
In India many Ayurvedic books were written in regional languages like Telugu, Bengali, Orissa, Gujarati etc. Though some of them are very useful, due to lack of maintenance and improper protection many of them became extinct and some of them are on the verge of extinction. Bhisaksudharnavam is one among such books, which is on the verge of extinction, details of which are presented here.
Prasad PVV, Subhakta PKJ, Narayana Ala, Rao MM. Medico-historical study of Asvattha (Sacred Fig tree).Bulletin of Indian Institute of History of Medicine. 2006; 36 (1):1-20.
Abstract.:
Asvattha (Ficus religiosa Linn.) is a tree which has got mythological religious and medicinal importance in Indian culture since ancient times. As per Vedic index Asvattha means horse stand, place or site or an object where or under which horses stand. Asvattha is also known as Pipal and Bodhidrma. This tree is the oldest depicted tree in India. In Vedic times it was used to make fire by friction and considered sacred. AtharvaVeda associates with the third heaven. It discusses medicinal properties of Asvattha along with Soma and Kustha. Asvattha is associated with the triad of Gods-Brahma, Visnu and Siva. Reference to Asvattha is found in Ramayana, Mahabharata, Bhagavadgita, Buddhistric literature, Arthasatra, Puranas, Upanishds etc. Non medicalliturature also. According to Ayurveda it has several synonyms. Most of them symbolize its sacredness. Asvattha is useful in various ailments like consumption, vomiting, ulcers in oral cavity, burns,
gynaecological problems etc. Thus its medico-historical importance, regional nomenclature, morphological features in brief etc. are being presented in this Article with few illustrations.
Prasad PVV, Subhakta PKJP, Narayana Ala, Rao MM. Palasa (Butea monosperma (LAMK.TAUB.) and its medico-historical study.Bulletin of Indian Institute of History of Medicine. 2006;36 (2): 117-132.
Abstract.:
Palasa {Butea monosperma (Lamk.) Taub} is considered scared both by Hindus and Buddhists. It is known to the Hindus under the Sanskrit name Palasa as sit possesses valuable medicinal properties. This sacred tree is being called the treasurer of the Gods and of sacrifice. It grows throughout India except in very arid parts and is a medium sized deciduous tree. Parts used are bark, leaf, flower, seed and gum. It is mainly useful as anti helminthic appetizer, aphrodisiac, laxative etc. Thus its medico-historical aspects are being presented in this paper.
Rao MM, Bhattacharya P, Maity SK, Pandey DR, Hazra JR. Community Health Care Programme in rural areas in North 24 Parganas District of West Bengal – A Report of some observations. Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Siddha. 2003;24 (3-4): 114-125.
Abstract.
The community Health Care Programme was conducted in 12 villages of District North 24 Parganas of West Bengal, which includes personal interviews, group discussions, clinical evaluations, gathering information about the folklore etc. The studies were conducted from 1974 to 2000 in 12 villages within a distance of radius of 15 to 25 km. from Central Research Institute (Ay.) Kolkata. A total number of 16,143 individuals were studied and the treatment was provided to 6880 patients during the regular intervals. During this period, it was found that the prevalent diseases in the area were AmlaPitta (15.23%), Atisara (12.22%), Krimi (10.03%).Jwara (9.38%), Kasa (8.95%), Twak roga (8.05%), Kandu (4.78%), Pravahika (3.11%), Pradara roga (2.56%) and Grahani roga (1.97%). And it was observed that these diseases are mainly due to mal-nutrition, ignorance and poor hygienic conditions.
Rao M.M, Das B, Nanda GC, Padhi MM. The role of Pichu (Taila) application in the management of Arsha (Haemorrhoids). Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Siddha. 2006; 27(1-2):41-51.
Abstract.
A pilot study was conducted to see the efficacy of “Pichu (Taila) application in the treatment Arsha (Haemorrhoids) at Ano-Rectal Clinic, Central Research Institute (Ay.), Bhubaneswar. This obserVational (Pilot) study was conducted on 25 patients of Arsha as per the Proforma designed by CCRAS, New Delhi. Out of 25 cases who received the above regimen, 80 percent cases got complete relief, 12 percent got marked relief and 8 percent got moderate relief. Analysis was made to assess the results in relation to various aspects
including improvement in hemoglobin levels. After analyzing the results it is concluded that the above drug regimen is effective in Arsha management
Rao MM, Deep VC, Padhi MM, Das B, Nanda GC, Sahu DP. Application of Leech therapy in the management of Svitra (Leukoderma). Aryavaidyan.2006;19( 3):144 – 147.
Abstract.
The once – reviled Leech (Hirudo medicinalis), recently lauded for it’s potential in preventing repeat heart attacks, 1 various skin diseases, Osteo-arthritis 2 could also have a role to play in the treatment of Switra (Leukoderma). During the period from Jan 2004 to Jan 2005 a total number of seven cases of switra was selected and used Leech therapy for a pilot study to see the effect on these patients. Out of seven cases, one case had developed normal skin colour, three cases developed pigmentation spots in fair number while remaining three cases only colour change was noticed from deep white to light pink colour. Since the study is an obserVational type, the authors feel more number of cases are needed to be studied to draw a conclusion.
Rao MM, Kar AC, Bhattacharya P. A clinical study on the management of Arsha (haemorrhoids) by Ayurvedic drug regimen.Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Siddha. 2006;27( 3-4).
Abstract.
In order to evaluate the efficacy of “Kravyadi Rasa, Kaseesadi taila vasti and Triphala churna in the management of Arsha (Haemorrhoids) a single blind clinical trial was conducted at Ano-Rectal Clinic, Central Research Institute (Ay.), Kolkata during the period from May 1999 to March 2004. This trial was conducted on 230 patients of Arsha as per the protocol designed by CCRAS, New Delhi. Out of 230 cases who received the above regimen, 37.39 percent cases got complete relief, 26.08 percent got marked relief, 14.78 percent got moderate relief, 6.52 percent got mild relief, while 15.21 percent of cases were dropped out. Analysis was made to assess the results in relation to age, duration of illness, Type of Arsha, Type of Haemorrhoids and also in the improvement in hemoglobin levels. After analyzing the results it is concluded that the above drug regimen is effective in Arsha management.
Rao MM, Kar AC, Bhattacharya P.Therapeutic evaluation of compound Ayurvedic formulations in the management of Arsha (Haemorrhoids) - A Clinical Study. Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Siddha. 2006;27( 3-4).
Abstract.
In order to evaluate the efficacy of “ Kaseesadi taila vasti Kankayana Vati, Kravyadi Rasa, Abhayarishtam and Triphala churna in the management of Arsha (Haemorrhoids) a single blind clinical trial was conducted at Ano-Rectal Clinic, Central Research Institute (Ay.), Kolkata during the period from August, 2000 to March 2004. This trial was conducted on 182 patients of Arsha as per the protocol designed by CCRAS, New Delhi. Out of 182 cases who received the above regimen, 31.31 percent cases got complete relief, 29.12 percent got marked
relief, 20.32 percent got moderate relief, 1.09 percent got mild relief, 0.54 percent go No relief while 15.93 percent were dropped out. It is concluded that the above drug regimen is effective in the management of Arsha.
Rao MM, Kar AC, Bhatacharya P, Maity SK, Pandey DR, Hazra JR. Study of Health Statistics in KHARI BARI Village of West Bengal under Mobile Clinical Research Programme with Special Reference to PRAKRITI – A Report of some observations. Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Siddha;27 ( 3-4): 30 – 47.
Abstract.
This paper covers the information regarding the health statistics, collected during the study conducted by the Mobile Clinical Research Unit of Central Research Institute (Ay.), Kolkata under the Mobile Clinical Research Programme of the Council. The programme was aimed to study the role of Prakriti in relation to the Socio-economic and Demographic aspects, the relation between the food habits and the incidence of diseases, the nature and frequency of prevalent diseases, ways and means of prevention of diseases and maintenance of positive health. In addition to this the unit was given the task of collecting information regarding folklore claims, medical facilities available, maintaining contact with village vaidyas and providing incidental medical aid to the patients in the village itself.
Rao MM, Kar AC. Cerebral Palsy Syndrome : Management with Ayurvedic therapy. THE ANTI SEPTIC. 2006; 103 (3): 171-173.
Abstract.
Cerebral Palsy Syndromes, a term used broadly to describe a number of motor disorders characterized by impaired voluntary movement resulting from prenatal developmental abnormalities or perinatal or postnatal CNS damage occurring before age 5 yr. Many children with cerebral palsy have other problems that require treatment. These include mental retardation;learning disabilities;seizures;and vision, hearing and speech problems. An attempt has been made to treat a diagnosed case of 13 years male child diagnosed with cerebral palsy, which affected at the age of 3 yrs. with Ayurvedic methods of treatment which includes Oral medication and Panchakarma therapies and these therapies are found to be helpful in treating such cases without any risk.
Rao MM, Kar AC. Effect of Ayurvedic Panchakarma Therapy in improving the condition of Cerebellar Degeneration – A Case Report. THE ANTI SEPTIC. 2007;104(1): 51-52.
Abstract.
The disease of Cerebellar Degeneration is among the disorders that produce ’Ataxia’ i.e a disturbance of the accuracy and speed of voluntary movement, other symptoms can include difficulties with swallowing and slurred speech. Sight and hearing can be affected. It is a progressive disorder. And, while it is not fatal in itself, it place unbearable stress upon the heart. A male patient of 35 years diagnosed with Cerebellar degeneration with Ataxia, slurred speech, weakness in both legs and general weakness etc. was treated with Ayurvedic Panchakarma therapy and after completion of three cycles of therapy the MRI of Brain revealed that the Cerebellum is normal.
Rao MM, Kar AC, Bhattacharya P, Devidas KV. Therapeutic evaluation of non-operative measures in the management of ParikArtika vis-à-vis fissure-in-Ano. Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Siddha. 2002;23(1-2): 71-80.
Abstract.
A clinical study has been conducted on 50 patients of Fissure-in-ano in the Ano-Rectal Clinic of Central Research Institute (Ay), Calcutta. The observations and results were recorded under various parameters. A total number of 50 patients have been kept on conserVative treatment with medicines Kaseesadi taila vasti, hot sitz bath, and Jatyadi ghrita for per rectal application and Triphala churna as a laxative. The study was carried out on various parameters including the number of days taken to heal the fissure with alleviation of symptoms like pain etc. Out of 50 cases registered for the study, 31 cases have got complete relief, 13 cases got marked relief, 3 cases got moderate relief and 3 cases dropped out from the study.
Rao MM, Kar AC, Bhatacharya P, Devidas KV. A Clinical study on the effect of Kravyadi ras, Kaseesadi taila vasti and Triphala churna in the management of Arsha (Haemorrhoids).Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Siddha. 2004;25(1-2):1-10.
Abstract.
In order to evaluate the efficacy of “Kravyadi Rasa, Kaseesadi taila vasti and Triphala churna in the management of Arsha (Haemorrhoids) a single blind clinical trial was conducted at Ano-Rectal Clinic, Central Research Institute (Ay.), Kolkata during the period from May 1999 to March 2004. This trial was conducted on 230 patients of Arsha as per the protocol designed by CCRAS, New Delhi. Out of 230 cases who received the above regimen, 37.39 percent cases got complete relief, 26.08 percent got marked relief, 14.78 percent got moderate relief, 6.52 percent got mild relief, while 15.21 percent of cases were dropped out. Analysis was made to assess the results in relation to age, duration of illness, Type of Arsha, Type of Haemorrhoids and also in the improvement in haemoglobin levels. After analyzing the results it is concluded that the above drug regimen is effective in Arsha management.
Rao MM, Kar AC, Bhatacharya P. A Clinical study on the effect of KankayanaVati,, Kaseesadi taila and Triphala churna in the management of Arsha (Haemorrhoids). Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Siddha. 2004;25(3-4): 9 – 21.
Abstract.
A single blind clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of “Kankayana Vati, Kaseesadi taila vasti and Triphala churna in the management of Arsha (Haemorrhoids) was carried out at Ano-Rectal Clinic, Central Research Institute (Ay.), Kolkata during the period from May 1999 to March 2004. This trial was conducted on 247 patients of Arsha as per the proforma designed by CCRAS, New Delhi. Out of 247 cases who received the above regimen, 42.91 percent patients got complete relief, 27.12% patients got marked relief, 10.93% patients
got moderate relief, 4.04% patients got mild relief, 1.61% patients got No relief while 13.36% patients were dropped out. It is concluded that the above drug regimen is effective in the management of Arsha.
Rao MM, Kar AC, Bhatacharya P, Devidas KV. Clinical evaluation of Pippali vardhaman Ksheerapaka + Sameerpannag Rasa in the management of Amavata (Rheumatoid arthritis) .Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Siddha. 2005;26(1-2):1-15.
Abstract.
A single blind clinical trial on Amavata (Rheumatoid arthritis) was conducted at Central Research Institute (Ay.), Kolkata during the period from May 1999 to March 2004. A total number of 157 cases were selected on the basis of criteria of diagnosis laid down by the ‘American College of Rheumatology’ (1987-revised) and also as per the protocol designed by C.C.R.A.S,New Delhi. All the patients were administered Pippali Vardhamana Ksheerapaka + Sameerpannaga Rasa for the period of six weeks The results were assessed in terms of Clinical recovery, Functional recovery and Recovery in E.S.R. Out of 157 cases, 27 had good response, 50 had fair response, 24 had poor response, 4 had no response while 55 cases were dropped out. After assessing the results it was concluded that the tried drug regimen is effective.
Rao MM, Kar AC, Bhattacharya P, Hazra J. Clinical Evaluation of efficacy of Shunti + Guggulu + Godanti in the management of Amavata (Rheumatoid arthritis). Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Siddha. 2005;26(3-4):80-94.
Abstract.
In order to evaluate the efficacy of Shunti + Guggulu + Gotanti (SGG Yoga) combination in the treatment of Amavata (Rheumatoid arthritis) a single blind clinical trial was conducted at Central Research Institute (Ay.), Kolkata during the period from May 1999 to March 2004. A total number of 80 cases were selected on the basis of criteria of diagnosis laid down by the ‘American College of Rheumatology’ (1987-revised) and also as per the protocol designed by C.C.R.A.S,New Delhi. All the patients were administered SGG Yoga for the period of six weeks The results were assessed in terms of Clinical recovery, Functional recovery and Recovery in E.S.R. Out of 80 cases, 18 had good response, 25 had fair response, 17 had poor response, 02 had no response while 18cases were dropped out. After assessing the results it was concluded that the tried drug regimen is effective.
Rao MM, Kar AC, Bhattacharya P, Hazra J. Comparative therapeutic evaluation of the Efficacy of Pippali vardhaman Ksheerapaka + Sameerapannaga Rasa vs. Shunti + Guggulu + Godanti in the management of Amavata, (Rheumatoid arthritis). 2006;27 (1-2):81-94.
Abstract.
In order to evaluate the efficacy of Pippali vardhaman Ksheerapaka + Sameerapannaga Rasa vs. Shunti + Guggulu+ Godanti in the treatment of Amavata (Rheumatoid arthritis) a randomized, single blind clinical trial was conducted at Central Research Institute (Ay.), Kolkata during the period from May 1999 to March 2004. A
total number of 237 cases were selected on the basis of criteria of diagnosis laid down by the ‘American College of Rheumatology’ (1987-revised) and also as per the protocol designed by C.C.R.A.S,New Delhi. All the patients were selected from the O.P.D. of the hospital section of C.R.I.(Ay.), Kolkata and were divided in two groups. In group – I, the patients were administered Pippali vardhaman Ksheerapaka + Sameerapannaga Rasa and in group – II, Shunti + Guggulu + Godanti combination was administered. The results were assessed in terms of Clinical recovery, Functional recovery and Recovery in E.S.R. In group – I;Out of 157 cases, 15.28 percent had good response, 31.84 percent had fair response, 15.28 percent had poor response, 2.54 percent had no response while 35.03 percent cases were dropped out while in group – II;Out of 80 cases, 22.50 percent had good response, 31.25 percent had fair response, 21.25 percent had poor response, 2.5 percent had no response while 22.5 percent cases were dropped out. After assessing the results it was concluded that the efficacy of the Shunti + Guggulu + Godanti combination is more effective than that of Pippali vardhaman Ksheerapaka + Sameerapannaga Rasa.
Rao MM, Kar AC, Bhattacharya P, Hazra J. Comparative therapeutic evaluation of the Efficacy of Shamana Chikitsa Vs. Shodhana Chikitsa (Vamana karma) in the management of Amavata (Rheumatoid arthritis). Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Siddha. 2008;29(3):1-24.
Abstract.
In order to evaluate the efficacy of different drug combinations in different modes i.e. Shamana and Shodhana with reference to Vamana karma in the treatment of Amavata (Rheumatoid arthritis) a randomized, single blind clinical trial was conducted at Central Research Institute (Ay.), Kolkata during the period from May 1999 to March 2004. A total number of 478 cases were selected and kept in four groups (Shamana = 2 (A1, A2) + Shodhana = 2 (B1, B2) on the basis of criteria of diagnosis laid down by the ‘American College of Rheumatology’ (1987-revised) and also as per the protocol designed by C.C.R.A.S,New Delhi. In group – A1, the patients were administered Pippali vardhaman Ksheerapaka + Sameera pannaga Rasa;In Group – A2, Shunti + Guggulu + Godanti combination and in Group – B1, patients were subjected for Deepana + Pachana + Snehana + Swedana + Vamana karma + Samsarjana karma while in group –B2 patients were subjected for only Snehana + Swedana + Vamana karma + Samsarjana karma i.e without administration of Deepana-Pachana drugs. The results were assessed in terms of Clinical recovery, Functional recovery and Recovery in E.S.R. In group –A1;Out of 157 cases, 15.28 percent had good response, 31.84 percent had fair response, 15.28 percent had poor response, 2.54 percent had no response while 35.03 percent cases were dropped out while in group – A2;Out of 80 cases, 22.50 percent had good response, 31.25 percent had fair response, 21.25 percent had poor response, 2.5 percent had no response while 22.5 percent cases were dropped out. In group – B1; Out of 110 cases, 10 percent had good response, 59.09 percent had fair response, 19.09 percent had poor response, 7.27 percent had no response while 4.54 percent cases were dropped out while in group – B2;Out of 131 cases, 13.74 percent had good response, 57.24 percent had fair response, 20.21 percent had poor response, 5.34 percent had no response while 6.87 percent cases were dropped out. After analyzing the results it was concluded that the Shodhan Chikitsa (Vamana karma) is more effective than Shamana Chikitsa.
Rao MM, Kar AC, Bhattacharya P, Hazra J. Clinical evaluation of the efficacy of Vamana karma in the management of Amavata (Rheumatoid arthritis). Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Siddha. 2008;29(3): 1-24.
Abstract.
In order to evaluate the efficacy of Vamana karma in the treatment of Amavata (Rheumatoid arthritis) a single blind clinical trial was conducted at Central Research Institute (Ay.), Kolkata during the period from May 1999 to March 2004. A total number of 131 cases was selected on the basis of criteria of diagnosis laid down by the ‘American College of Rheumatology’ (1987-revised) and also as per the protocol designed by C.C.R.A.S,New Delhi. All the patients were admitted in the hospital section of C.R.I.(Ay.), Kolkata and were subjected for Vamana karma. The results were assessed in terms of Clinical recovery, Functional recovery and Recovery in E.S.R. Out of 131 cases, 18 had good response, 75 had fair response, 22 had poor response, 7 had no response while 9 cases were dropped out. After assessing the results it was concluded that the Vamana karma is effective in the management of Amavata..
Rao MM, Kar AC, Bhattacharya P, Hazra J. Comparative therapeutic evaluation of the Efficacy of Vamana karma Without and with Deepana - Pachana in the management of Amavata (Rheumatoid arthritis). Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Siddha. 2009;30(1): 27-48.
Abstract.
In order to evaluate the efficacy of Vamana karma in different modes i.e. after administration of Deepana – Pachana drugs and without administration of Deepana – Pachana drugs in the treatment of Amavata (Rheumatoid arthritis) a randomized, single blind clinical trial was conducted at Central Research Institute (Ay.), Kolkata during the period from May 1999 to March 2004. A total number of 241 cases were selected on the basis of criteria of diagnosis laid down by the ‘American College of Rheumatology’ (1987-revised) and also as per the protocol designed by C.C.R.A.S,New Delhi. All the patients were admitted in the hospital section of C.R.I.(Ay.), Kolkata and were divided in to two groups. In group – I, the patients were subjected for Deepana+ Pachana+Snehana+Swedana+Vamana karma+Samsarjana karma and in group – II patients were subjected for only Snehana+Swedana+Vamana karma+Samsarjana karma i.e without administration of Deepana-Pachana drugs. The results were assessed in terms of Clinical recovery, Functional recovery and recovery in E.S.R. In group – I;Out of 110 cases, 10 percent had good response, 59.09 percent had fair response, 19.09 percent had poor response, 7.27 percent had no response while 4.54 percent cases were dropped out while in group – II;Out of 131 cases, 13.74 percent had good response, 57.24 percent had fair response, 20.21 percent had poor response, 5.34 percent had no response while 6.87 percent cases were dropped out. After assessing the results it was concluded that the efficacy of the both drug regimens are equally effective in the management of Amavata and the vamana therapy showed encouraging results even in both groups.
Rao MM, Kar A.C, Bhattacharya P, Hazra J. Therapeutic evaluation of the Efficacy of Panchakarma therapy (Deepana - Pachana + Snehan + Swedana + Vamana karma + Samsarjana karma) in the management of Amavata (Rheumatoid arthritis).Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Siddha. 2009;30(3):51-64.
Abstract.
In order to evaluate the efficacy of Panchakarma therapy with special reference to Deepana Pachana and Vamana karma in the treatment of Amavata (Rheumatoid arthritis) a single blind clinical trial was conducted at Central Research Institute(Ay.), Kolkata during the period from May 1999 to March 2004. A total number of 110 cases were selected on the basis of criteria of diagnosis laid down by the ‘American College of Rheumatology’ (1987-revised) and also as per the protocol designed by C.C.R.A.S,New Delhi. All the patients were admitted in the hospital section of C.R.I.(Ay.), Kolkata and were subjected for Deepana+ Pachana+Snehana+Swedana+Vamana karma+Samsarjana karma. The results were assessed in terms of Clinical recovery, Functional recovery and recovery in E.S.R. Out of 110 cases, 11 had good response, 65 had fair response, 21 had poor response, 8 had no response while 5 cases were dropped out. After assessing the results it was concluded that the Pancha karma therapy (Vamana karma) is effective.
Rao MM, Kar AC, Bhattacharya P, Hazra J. The effect of Ayurvedic drug regimen in the management of Arsha (Haemorrhoids), - A comparative therapeutic study. Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Siddha.2009;30(4):77-92.
Abstract.:
A single blind clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of “Kravyadi Rasa, Kaseesadi taila vasti and Triphala Churna in one group (Group-I) and Kankayana Vati, Kravyadi Rasa, Kaseesadi Taila Vatti, Abhayarishtam and Triphala Churna in another group (Group-II) in the management of Arsha (Hemorrhoids) was carried out at Ano-Rectal Clinic, Central Research Institute (Ay), Kolkata during the period from May 1999 to March 2004. This trial was conducted on 412 patients of Arsha as per the proforma designed by CCRAS, New Delhi.Group-I: Out of 230 cases who received the above regimen, 31.31 percent cases got complete relief, 29.12 percent got marked relief, 20.32 percent got moderate relief, 1.092 percent got mild relief, while 15.21 percent of cases were dropped out.Group-II : Out of 182 cases who received the above regimen, 37.39 percent cases got complete relief, 26.08 percent got marked relief. 14.78 percent got moderate relief, 6.52 percent got mild relief, 0.54 percent of cases got no relief while 15.93 percent were dropped out. After analyzing the results it was observed that even though there was significant improvement in both the groups, there was observed a higher rate of improvement in Group-I than that of Group-II.
Rao MM, Rai SD, Sharma KR. Role of Teekshnakshara Bhavita Sutra in the management of Bhagandar (Fistulo-in-Ano).Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Siddha.1999;21 (3-4):130-140.
Abstract.:
A clinical study has been conducted on 100 patients of fistla-in-ano in the Ano Rectal clinic of Shalya Shalakya department, Sir Sundarlal Hospital, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University. The observations were recorded under various parameters. The total of 100 patients have been divided into two groups of control (G-1) and treated (G-II) and 50 patients were kept in each group respectively. In G-1 the Standard Kshara Sutra (Apamarga Kshara +Snuhi Ksheera+ Haridra) was carried out on various parameters including unit cutting time in days/cm to assess the extract duration of the treatment.There were maximum 71 patients diagnosed as
Parisravi Bhagandara. 11 cases were Shatapanak and 18 cases were diagnosedas Ushtravagreeva Bhagandara. The maximum 65 patients were suffering from low-anal fistula, 26 patients with high-anal fistula, 6 patients were cutaneuous and 3 patients with sub mucuous fistulae were reported. The average unit cutting time in control group was found to be6.6 days/cm, while in treated groups, the average UCT was just 5.0 days/cm.
Ravishankar B, Shukla VJ. Indian systems of medicine: a brief profile. Afr J Tradit Complement Altern Med. 2007;4(3):319-37.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Medicinal plants based traditional systems of medicines are playing important role in providing health care to large section of population, especially in developing countries. Interest in them and utilization of herbal products produced based on them is increasing in developed countries also. To obtain optimum benefit and to understand the way these systems function, it is necessary to have minimum basic level information on their different aspects. Indian Systems of Medicine are among the well known global traditional systems of medicine. In this review, an attempt has been made to provide general information pertaining to different aspects of these systems. This is being done to enable the readers to appreciate the importance of the conceptual basis of these system in evolving the material medica. The aspects covered include information about historical background, conceptual basis, different disciplines studied in the systems, Research and Development aspects, Drug manufacturing aspects and impact of globalization on Ayurveda. In addition, basic information on Siddha and Unani systems has also been provided.
Samy RP, Pushparaj PN, Gopalakrishnakone P. A compilation of bioactive compounds from Ayurveda. Bioinformation.2008;3(3):100-10.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
This review deals with the key bioactive compounds and the role of medicinal plants in Ayurvedic systems of medicine in India and their earlier investigation. There has been an increase in demand for the Phytopharmaceutical products of Ayurveda in Western countries, because of the fact that the allopathic drugs have more side effects. Many pharmaceutical companies are now concentrating on manufacturing of Ayurvedic Phytopharmaceutical products. Ayurveda is the Indian traditional system of medicine, which also deals about pharmaceutical science. Different type of plant parts used for the Ayurvedic formulation; overall out line of those herbal scenario and its future prospects for the scientific evaluation of medicinal plants used by traditional healers are also discussed. In India most of them, where Ayurvedic treatment is frequently used, for their ailments and provides instructions to local people how to prepare medicine from the herbs. As much as possible importance is also given for the taxonomic literature.
Sannd Rajesh, Acharya M V, Clinical Effect of 'BRYT' formula as a supportive therapy along with the Conventional regimen on Gulma, Arbuda, with special reference to Cancer. Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Siddha. 2000;21(3-4):148-158.
Abstract.
Cancer is a large mortality problem all over the world. The conventional treatment such as Surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy are associated with fatal side effects, hence fail to give a comprehensive treatment for Cancer. Aetiopathogenasis of Gulma, arbuda resemble that of Cancer. Herbo-mineral drugs are advocated to treat these ailments. Out of these, ‘BRYT’ formula was tried as independent as well as a supportive therapy to the conventional treatments. The formula consists of Bhallataka (Semecarpus anacardium Linn.f.), Rohitaka (Aphanamixis polystachia Wall.), YashtiMadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn.) and Tamra bhasma.The study was carried out on 400 patients under 7 groups by Dr. G.C. PRasad et. al. at Institute of Medical Sciences. B.H.U.Varanasi. They were assessed by their general body health including body weight, Hb. GABA (Gama amino butyric acid) and GAD (glutamate decarboxylase) estimation and life span of the patient.It was observed that the patients treated with ‘BRYT’ formula as a supportive therapy to the conventional therapies lead better and longer life devoid of side effects of the treatment as compare to those received only either conventional treatment of ‘BRYT’ formula.
Sannd Rajesh, Bansal Parveen, Kumar Sanjiv, Bikshapathi T. Clinical effect of Arkakit Nasya in the management of Epilepsy A case study. Scientific Journal of Panchkarma. 2007;8(1):13-14
Abstract.
Apasmara is categorised as a Mansik Roga. This symptomatology resembles with that of Grand mal Epilepsy, now known as Tonic Clonic Epilepsy. Verbal meaning of epilepsy is tendency of having seizure. A number of medicines are enlisted to treat the disease. But these drugs are not free from side effects. They have mild to severe side effects depending upon dose and type of medicine used. Most common side effects are, giddiness, dizziness, nausea, dependency and over reactivity.The present case is a 4 yrs old female child who was having seizure since birth. She was diagnosed for Myocolonic epilepsy at the age of 3 ½ months. The EEG revealed disturbed sleep pattern with excessive high potential discharge in the whole brain. The frequency of discharge was from 3 sec. to 9 sec.which remained for 1.5 to 3 sec. The CT scan and MRI of brain showed no anatomical abnormality. The medicine used to treat the case was Ark Keet. The reference is found in MEGH VINOD, a book written by Muni Megh Raj (461/48). The old plants of Calotropis procera were uprooted and the insects were collected from there. These were placed in a box. After few days they died and turned into a pungent smelling powder. The powder was given as Nasya in the morning for 40 days. No other medicine was given during the treatment. There is a seizure threshold of brain. When this seizure threshold is lowered these become visible. . The pungent smelling powder, which is an animal product, might be having some effect that could reduce the electrical discharges from the brain cells as evident from the EEG after the treatment, or might have increased the seizure threshold and the patient did not suffer the seizure.
Saper RB, Phillips RS, Sehgal A, Khouri N, Davis RB, Paquin J, Thuppil V, Kales SN. Lead, mercury, and arsenic in US- and Indian-manufactured Ayurvedic medicines sold via the Internet. JAMA. 2008 Aug 27;300(8):915-23.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
CONTEXT: Lead, mercury, and arsenic have been detected in a substantial proportion of Indian-manufactured traditional Ayurvedic medicines. Metals may be present due to the practice of Rasa shastra (combining herbs with metals, minerals, and gems). Whether toxic metals are present in both US- and Indian-manufactured Ayurvedic medicines is unknown.OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of Ayurvedic medicines available via the Internet containing detectable lead, mercury, or arsenic and to compare the prevalence of toxic metals in US- vs Indian-manufactured medicines and between Rasa shastra and non-Rasa shastra medicines.DESIGN: A search using 5 Internet search engines and the search terms Ayurveda and Ayurvedic medicine identified 25 Web sites offering traditional Ayurvedic herbs, formulas, or ingredients commonly used in Ayurveda, indicated for oral use, and available for sale. From 673 identified products, 230 Ayurvedic medicines were randomly selected for purchase in August-October 2005. Country of manufacturer/Web site supplier, Rasa shastra status, and claims of Good Manufacturing Practices were recorded. Metal concentrations were measured using x-ray fluorescence spectroscopy.MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Prevalence of medicines with detectable toxic metals in the entire sample and stratified by country of manufacture and Rasa shastra status.RESULTS: One hundred ninety-three of the 230 requested medicines were received and analyzed. The prevalence of metal-containing products was 20.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 15.2%-27.1%). The prevalence of metals in US-manufactured products was 21.7% (95% CI, 14.6%-30.4%) compared with 19.5% (95% CI, 11.3%-30.1%) in Indian products (P = 0.86). Rasa shastra compared with non-Rasa shastra medicines had a greater prevalence of metals (40.6% vs 17.1%; P = .007) and higher median concentrations of lead (11.5 microg/g vs 7.0 microg/g; P = .03) and mercury (20,800 microg/g vs 34.5 microg/g; P = .04). Among the metal-containing products, 95% were sold by US Web sites and 75% claimed Good Manufacturing Practices. All metal-containing products exceeded 1 or more standards for acceptable daily intake of toxic metals.CONCLUSION: One-fifth of both US-manufactured and Indian-manufactured Ayurvedic medicines purchased via the Internet contain detectable lead, mercury, or arsenic.
Sharma H, Chandola HM, Singh G, Basisht G. Utilization of Ayurveda in health care: an approach for prevention, health promotion, and treatment of disease. Part 1--Ayurveda, the science of life. J Altern Complement Med.2007;13(9):1011-9. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Ayurveda is a natural health care system that originated in India more than 5000 years ago. Its main objective is to achieve optimal health and well-being through a comprehensive approach that addresses mind, body, behavior, and environment. Ayurveda emphasizes prevention and health promotion, and provides treatment for disease. It considers the development of consciousness to be essential for optimal health and meditation as the main technique for achieving this. Treatment of disease is highly individualized and depends on the psychophysiologic constitution of the patient. There are different dietary and lifestyle recommendations for each season of the year. Common spices are utilized in treatment, as well as herbs and herbal mixtures, and special preparations known as Rasayanas are used for rejuvenation, promotion of longevity, and slowing of the aging process. A group of purification procedures known as Panchakarma removes toxins from the physiology. Whereas Western allopathic medicine is excellent in handling acute medical crises, Ayurveda demonstrates an ability to manage chronic disorders that Western medicine has been unable to. It may be projected from Ayurveda's comprehensive approach, emphasis on prevention, and ability to manage chronic disorders that its widespread use would improve the health status of the world's population.
Sharma H, Chandola HM, Singh G, Basisht G. Utilization of Ayurveda in health care: an approach for prevention, health promotion, and treatment of disease.Part 2--Ayurveda in primary health care. J Altern Complement Med. 2007;13(10):1135- 50.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
Ayurveda is a comprehensive natural health care system that originated in India more than 5000 years ago. It is still widely used in India as a system of primary health care, and interest in it is growing worldwide as well. Ayurveda has unique concepts and methodologies to address health care throughout the course of life, from pregnancy and infant care to geriatric disorders. Common spices are utilized, as well as herbs, herbal mixtures, and special preparations known as Rasayanas. Purification procedures known as Panchakarma remove toxins from the physiology. Research has been conducted worldwide on Ayurveda. There are encouraging results for its effectiveness in treating various ailments, including chronic disorders associated with the aging process. Pilot studies presented in this paper were conducted on depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, Parkinson's disease, and Alzheimer's disease. These preliminary studies yielded positive results and provide a basis for conducting larger, more rigorous clinical trials. Conducting research that compares Ayurveda's comprehensive treatment approach, Western allopathic treatment, and an integrated approach combining the Ayurvedic and allopathic treatments would shed light on which treatment approach is the most effective for the benefit of the patient.
Shi Y, Sahu RP, Srivastava SK. Triphala inhibits both in vitro and in vivo xenograft growth of pancreatic tumor cells by inducing apoptosis. BMC Cancer. 2008;8:294-7. Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/.
Abstract.
BACKGROUND: Triphala is commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat variety of diseases; however its mechanism of action remains unexplored. This study elucidates the molecular mechanism of Triphala against human pancreatic cancer in the cellular and in vivo model.METHODS: Growth-inhibitory effects of Triphala were evaluated in Capan-2, BxPC-3 and HPDE-6 cells by Sulphoradamine-B assay. Apoptosis was determined by cell death assay and western blotting. Triphala was administered orally to nude mice implanted with Capan-2 xenograft. Tumors were analyzed by immunohistochemistry and western blotting.RESULTS: Exposure of Capan-2 cells to the aqueous extract of Triphala for 24 h resulted in the significant decrease in the survival of cells in a dose-dependent manner with an IC50 of about 50 microg/ml. Triphala-mediated reduced cell survival correlated with induction of apoptosis, which was associated with reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Triphala-induced apoptosis was linked with phosphorylation of p53 at Ser-15 and ERK at Thr-202/Tyr-204 in Capan-2 cells. Above mentioned effects were significantly blocked when the cells were pretreated with an antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC), suggesting the involvement of ROS generation. Pretreatment of cells with pifithrin-alpha or U0126, specific inhibitors of p53 or MEK-1/2, significantly attenuated Triphala-induced apoptosis. Moreover, NAC or U0126 pretreatment significantly attenuated Triphala-induced p53 transcriptional activity. Similarly, Triphala induced apoptosis in another pancreatic cancer cell line BxPC-3 by actiVating ERK. On the other hand, Triphala failed to induce apoptosis or activate ERK or p53 in normal human pancreatic ductal epithelial (HPDE-6) cells. Further, oral administration of 50 mg/kg or 100 mg/kg Triphala in
PBS, 5 days/week significantly suppressed the growth of Capan-2 pancreatic tumor-xenograft. Reduced tumor-growth in Triphala fed mice was due to increased apoptosis in the tumors cells, which was associated with increased activation of p53 and ERK. CONCLUSION: Our preclinical studies demonstrate that Triphala is effective in inhibiting the growth of human pancreatic cancer cells in both cellular and in vivo model. Our data also suggests that the growth inhibitory effects of Triphala is mediated by the activation of ERK and p53 and shows potential for the treatment and/or prevention of human pancreatic cancer.
Singh OP, Padhi MM, Das B, Deep VC, Rao MM. Rationality of using different oils and fats for human body. Arya Vaidyan. 2004;18(1): 51-53.
Abstract.:
The significance of the use of oils is very far above the ground in Ayurveda. Most of the Ayurvedic preparations are based on soils and oil itself is considered as a medicine in Ayurveda. In this paper the authors attempt to standardize oils obtained from different sources with the support of contemporary knowledge.
Singh OP, Padhi MM, Das B, Deep VC, Hazra J, Alam MM, Rao MM. Clinical evaluation of Arogyavardhini Vati, Kaishore Guggulu and Chakarmardakera taila in the management of kitibha (Psoriasis).Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Siddha.2007;28(No. 1-2):61 – 71.
Abstract.:
Psoriasis is a chronic recurrent intractable disease with worldwide distribution. It consists of almost 10% of all skin disorders. The illusion of treating Psoriasis continuous and limitations of conventional modalities and disillusionment with systemic modalities like lever scare of methatrexate. Mutugenic potential of PUVA skeletal toxicity of retinoid and local systematic side/ toxic effects of corticoSteroids necessitate search for newer and safer drugs. Preliminary clinical trials with Kaishore Guggulu, Arogyavardhini and Mimbudin were conducted by peripheral Institutes. Functioning under CCRAS and results were encouraging . The present study with Arogyvardhini Vatti, Kaishore Guggulu and Chakarmardakera Tail a revealed 13 cases having good response, 23 cases having fair response, 12 having poor response, only 02 having no response and 07 cases were dropped out.
Singh OP, Padhi MM, Das B, Deep VC, Hazra J, Alam MM, Tewari NS, Rao MM. Clinical evaluation of Kanchanar Guggulu and gokshuradi Guggulu in the management of manifested case of Slipada (Filariasis). Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Siddha. 2008;29(2): 39 – 47.
Abstract.:
Slipada (Filariasis) is mosquito borne disease which initially either remains latent or presents ambiguous features whn manifested. The pitting oedema or progressive hardened swelling becomes irreversible in proportion to duration of the disease. As such in chronic manifested stage, very few medicines are likely to bring about complete recovery or to prevent the episodes. So the drugs likely to act in chronic dormant stage
are supposed to have anti tumour, anti inflammatory and diuretic effect. N this series, Kanchnar Guggulu and Goksuradi Guggulu were put to clinical trial in 50 patients of chronic manifested Slipada (Filariasis). Considering prognosis of the disease the result seems encouraging since only with a 4 weeks course of treatment 32% of patients had good response, 44% patients had Fair rspsonse. 16% had poor response, 2% had no response and 6% were dropped out.
Srikanth N, Mangal AK, Lavekar GS. An Insight on Indigenous Ophthalmic Medicinal Flora: An Ayurvedic Pharmacological Basis. Bull. Med. Ethno Bot. Research. 2005; 26(3-4):65-74.
Abstract.
This contribution highlights hidden knowledge about various ophthalmic plant drugs scattered elsewhere in various corners of ancient literatures of Ayurveda and provides the basic knowledge concerning ophthalmic drugs found in medical classics of ancient and medieval period, which forms a base for further research and validation. An attempt has also made to classify the Ayurvedic ophthalmic plants drugs based on their mode of action with Ayurvedic Pharmacological basis.
Srikanth N, Mangal AK, Lavekar GS. Scientific exposition of medicinal plants in painful ophthalmic conditions: An Ayurvedic Pharmacological perspective. Bull. Med. Ethno Bot. Research. 2007; 28(3-4): 25-40.
Abstract.
Antiquity of ophthalmic use of medicinal plants goes back to the period of (1000 B.C.). A mention of different analgesic ophthalmic drugs is found in Garudapurana. The present work aims at exposition of hidden knowledge about single ophthalmic plant drugs indicated in “ocular pain” scattered elsewhere in ancient and medieval Ayurvedic literature and to impart the basic knowledge concerning these drugs which forms a base for further research and revalidation. A special edition has also been made to analyse these drugs based on Pharmacodynamic/kinetic principles mentioned in Ayurvedic Pharmacology, to arrive rational conclusions concerning the probable mode of action of these agents and creating possible basis for formulation of strategy for developing appropriate topical drops and oral dosage forms to achieve ocular analgesia without adverse effects.
Srikanth N, Venkateswarlu B, Singh Rajesh.Jirinkalgikar Nikhil, Rao MM, Haripriya N, Sharma MM, Sharma BS, Narayana Ala. Reflective note on Aroamatic plants cited in Sarvaushadhi Guna Kalpakam : A Telugu compendium on Ayurveda Materia Medica.Journal of Indian Institute of History of Medicine. 2008;38 (1): 41-54.
Abstract.:
The antiquity of use of medicinal and aromatic plants, poly herbal, mineral based formulations for therapeutic and cosmetic purpose goes back to the Vedic period (6000 BC) Ayurvedic classics further detail about varied applications of aroma in environmental and public health, pharmaceuticals and therapeutics. The scope and
therapeutic utility of Aromatic Plants further expanded at a large as a result of continuous additions from experimental research outcome, experimental knowledge and documented as codified texts. Sarvausadhi Guna Kalpakam adds to such works of modern period on medicinal and aromatic plants. A special chapter entitled “Sugandhi Dravyaguna Manjari” is dedicated to describe details of aromatic plants, animal products and minerals. Here an attempt has been made to place a note on aromatic medicinal plants described in Sarvausadhi Guna Kalpakam that could serve as a basic document to scientists, scholars and physicians for their ready reference and further utility in research, clinical practice, etc.
Srikanth N, Venkateswarlu B, Rao MM, Haripriya. An insightful Exposition on Sarvaushadhi Guna Kalpakam: A less familiar compendium on Ayurvedic Materia Medica. Journal of Indian Institute of History of Medicine. 2008;38(2):171-178.
Abstract.:
The plants, metals, minerals and animal products have been in vogue since centuries for the prevention, management and cure of illness of human kind. Nighantu have added much to the indigenous pharmacopeia in addition to the inherent knowledge of Vedic and Samhita periods. Moreover eminent scholars of modern era have significantly contributed to the enrichment of Ayurvedic Pharmacopeia through systematic documentation and presentation of information in user friendly manner for easy browsing. Sarvausadi Guna Kalpakam is one such unique contribution of modern period on Ayurvedic Materia Medica available in Telugu Scrip. An attempt has been made to place a brief account on the methodology and contents of the text that would facilitate the scientists, physicians and research scholars for proper utilization of this knowledge.
Varanasi Subhose, Narayana Ala, Bhatnagar VK, Rao MM. Biography of Sodhala and his contribution to Ayurveda. Bulletin of Indian Institute of History of Medicine. 2005;35 (1):43-62.
Abstract.:
Sodhala was a scholar of Ayurveda as well as Sahitya Jyotisya, Vyakarna and also a good poet who belongs to Gujarate. Sodhala contributed two important works to Ayurveda literature namely 1. Sodhala Nighantu, 2 Godanigraha.Sodhala Nighantu consists of two parts and contains about 2.050(790+1,260) verses. Te section on synonyms, the Namasangraha, and the other one is on properties and actions of drugs, the Gunasangraha. The arrangement of the material constitutes an unprecedented innoVation in the literature of Nighantu (Ayurveda drug’s lexicons or dictionaries). The Gadanigraha is composed of two district parts and contains about 10,054 (2700+7354) versus. The first part is a collection of formulae arranged according to the several types of pharmaceutical preparations and the second one is a comprehensive text dealing with both Nidana and Chikitsa arranged as for the Astangas (8 major divisions) of Ayurveda. The work seems to be later than SodhalaNighantu because most of the drugs mentioned in this work are not found in the SodhalaNighantu. The diseases are arranged in systematically which is a new feature and their order is differ from MadhavaNidana. From the available evidences we can assume that Sodhala might be belongs to 1200 AD The contributions of Sodhala are noteworthy and they are important landmark works in history of Ayurveda.
Varanasi Subhose, Saket Ram T, Bhatnagar VK, Narayana Ala, Rao MM. A Review of Brahmavaivarta purana (BVP) with Reference to Ayurveda. Bulletin of Indian Institute of History of Medicine. 2007; 37 (1).
Abstract.:
Brahmavaivaartapurana is one of the important Mahapurana, which is considered as a Vaisnavapurana. The text is divided into four parts called Khanda i.e. Brahmha, Prakrti, Ganapati and SrikrsnajanmaKhanda. The total number of chapters are 276 and comprising about 20,500 verses. Brahmavaivartapurana comprises both ancient and medieval materials. It considers Ayurveda as Pancama Veda and devoted 16th chapter of Brahmakhanda which describes the origin of Ayurveda its propagators headed by Bhaskara (sun God) and his 16 students and they corresponding books in detail. An account of the Jvara (fever) and other diseases, Dinacarya (daily routine), Ritucharya (seasonal regimen), Tridosa (three humours), their Prakopa (Vitiation and prashamana (Pilliation) etc. are described in this book. BVP deals with the do’s and don’t’s of food intake, sleep and sexual indulgence in detail which are deemed to be Trayopasthamba (three sub pillars of health). The book provides an account of Plant Tulsi’s origin and its spiritual importance Prakriti (Nature’s) origins, Paricamahabhuta nature of the body are described in PrakritiKhanda. At the flag end of the book there is a legend describing the origin of Lord Dhanvantari and describes his scholarship in the field of Veda and Sastra. On the whole purana provides glimpse of the life style of a Vaisnava devoutee and the people of the time when it was compiled. It serves the purpose of a practical manual to lead a healthy life and ensure spiritual growth in the life of any individual who believes in the precepts of this book.
Venkateswarlu B,Vasanth P, Srikanth N,Rao MM, Padhi MM. Musali - A Medico-Historical Review. Journal of Indian Institute of History of Medicine.2008;38(1): 55-70.
Abstract.:
Musali is a Sukrala dravya (Aphrodisiac drug) and number of formulations mentioned in the classics with Musali as one of the ingredients. There are two varieties of Musali are mentioned in BhavaprakasaNighantu viz. Sapheda Musali and Kali Musali. Various botanical sources for both Sapheda and Kali Musali have been described in the literature. The actual botanical source of Sapheda Musali is tuberous roots of Asparagus adscendens Roxb. Tuberous roots of different Chlorophytum species are also sold under the name of Sapheda Musali, as the description of Sapheda Musali in the classics can also be attributed to Cholorophytum species. Botanical source of Kali Musali is tuberous roots of Curculigo orchioides Gaertn. A detailed account Musali covering multiple aspects. viz. synonyms, properties, actions and indications of Musali, reasons for different botanical sources of Musali has been made which would help academicians, scholars, scientists pharmaceutical industries etc. for further exhaustive review comprising medico-historical etymological, botanical, Pharmacological aspects from ancient and contemporary literatures would provide a clarity in identification of the plant.
Bibliographic Details without Abstract.s
Gupta V, Meena AK, Krishna CM, Rao MM, Sannd R, Singh H, Panda P, Padhi MM and Ramesh Babu. Review of Plants used as Kshar of Family Piperaceae: International Journal of Ayurvedic Medicine.2010;1(2):81-82.
Kumar S, Bansal P, Gupta V, Sannd R, Rao MM. The Clinical Effect of Albizia lebbeck Stem Bark Decoction on Bronchial Asthama, International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research. 2010;2(1):44-46.
Meena AK, kaur Ramanjeet, Singh Brijendra, Yadav A K, Singh Uttam, Sachan Ayushy, Pal Bhavana, Rao M M. Review On Antifungal Activities of Ayurvedic Medicinal Plants. Drug Invention Today.2010;2(2): 146-148.
Meena AK, Rao MM, Kandale Ajit, Sannd R, Sharma Kiran, Niranjan U, Yadav AK. Standardisation of Desmodium gangeticum – A Traditional Ayurvedic Plant. Drug Invention Today. 2010;2(2):182-184.
Meena AK, Rao MM, Nageswara Rao V, Komalpreet, Padhi MM, Ramesh Babu. Comparative Study of various Plants of Piperaceae Family Commonly Used in Ayurvedic Formulations. Research J. Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry. 2010;2(5):407-410.
Meena AK, Sachan Ayushy, Kaur Ramanjeet, Pal Bhavana, Rao MM, Singh Brijendra and Mishra Santosh Kumar. Quality Assessment of Different Variants of Yogaraj Guggulu, International Journal of Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance. 2010;2(2):10-12.
Meena AK, Yadav AK, Panda P, Komal Preet and MM Rao. Review on Stereospermum suaveolens DC: A Potential Herb. Drug Invention Today.2010;2(5):238-239.
Nanda GC, Sahu DP, Rao MM, Audichya KC. Practical adaptability of Geriatrics in context to Rasayana therapy – An innoVative approach, Sachitra Ayurved, Comminicated June 2005.
Nikhil J, Babita B, Venkateswarlu B, Sharma MM, Srikanth N, Rao MM, Padhi MM. A Medico-Historical Review Ksharasutra (A Medicated Flax).Journal of Indian Institute of History of Medicine, Communicated April, 2008.
Rao MM, Deep VC, Padhi MM, Das B, Nanda GC, Sahu DP. Therapeutic evaluation of efficacy of Jalaukavacharan (Leech application) in the management of Switra (Leukoderma) – A Pilot study, THE ANTI SEPTIC, Communicated June 2006.
Rao MM, Kar AC, Bhattacharya P, Hazra J. A comparative therapeutic study on the effect of Ayurvedic formulations in the management of Arsha (Haemorrhoids).Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Siddha, In Press Accepted for publication.
Rao MM, Kar AC, Bhattacharya P, Hazra J. A comparative clinical study on the effect of some compound Ayurvedic preparations in the management of Arsha (Haemorrhoids).Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Siddha, communicated.
Rao MM, Kar AC, Bhattacharya P, Hazra J. A fact finding survey among tribal groups of West Bengal with special reference to Santals.Journal of Drug Research in Ayurveda and Siddha New Delhi, In Press Accepted for publication.
Srikanth N, Venkateshwarlu B, Rao MM, Padhi MM. Antimicrobial Activity of Some Ayurvedic Plant Drugs –An Appraisal of Evidence Based Researches Ayurmedline, Communicated March, 2008.
Srikanth N, Venkateswarlu B, Nikhil J, Singh Rajesh, Babita B, Rao MM, Sarada Ota, MM Padhi, Lavekar GS. Concept and practicability of Aroma therapy and herbal cosmetology in Ayurveda : Research issues and challenges.Journal of Drug Research in Ayurveda and Siddha New Delhi, Communicated July, 2008
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