A Review of Erythrina Variegate Leaf Melluma in the Management of Kaphaja Krimi (Tapeworms): A Comprehensive Analysis

Abstract

One or more kinds of intestinal worms infect more than 50% of people worldwide. One of the earliest diseases affecting humans is tapeworms correlated to Kaphaja Krimi in Ayurveda. They still have a significant role in global morbidity and death today. Erythrina variegate leaf Melluma (dry curry or condiment) is a traditional remedy for intestinal worms and this review’s objective was to investigate the effectiveness of this leaf Melluma in the management of worms. Information about worms was gleaned from Ayurvedic scriptures, contemporary texts and earlier research studies. Subsequently, a comprehensive survey of the literature was conducted for Erythrina variegate leaf Melluma, which was then scrutinized for their Pancha Padārtha (five elements of the herb) and pharmacological qualities related to the management of frontal sinusitis. Analysis of Ayurvedic Pancha Padārtha showed positive impact on derangement of Dōsha (body humors) involved in Kaphaja Krimi and the herbal formula’s anti-helminthic properties, stemming from their alignment with anti-parasitic, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. While the majority of studies have demonstrated the anti-helminthic effects of Erythrina variegate, reviewed articles have also highlighted additional qualities that alleviate the symptoms of worm infections. Based on the literature review and Pancha Padārtha analysis, the selected Melluma proves to be valuable in the management of worms.