Ayurveda Drugs Research Articles

Rasacharya Pandit Chivukula Satyanarayanasastry: A proponent of Rasa Chikitsa and a distinguished litterateur who enriched Ayurveda through Telugu literature

Abstract Alchemy has two main aspects: Rasa Chikitsa and Rasa Vada. Rasa Chikitsa refers to the therapeutic application of drugs of metal and mineral origin, animal products, and poisonous plant drugs in Ayurveda. On the other hand, Rasa Vada was a branch of chemistry in the Middle Ages concerned with changing base metals into gold and alchemy, which have been around for centuries. Saint Govinda Bhagavatpada, the mentor of Adi Sankaracharya, was a respected practitioner of Rasa Vada and wrote Rasa Hridaya Tantra, considered a pioneering work on Rasa Sastra. Rasacharya Chivukula Satyanarayana Sastry, from Andhra Pradesh, dedicated his life to mastering these two facets and gained notable recognition as a Rasa Vaidya. He was given the esteemed title of Rasacharya, following the footsteps of the renowned scientist Siddha Nagarjuna. Interestingly, no one else in Andhra Pradesh has been given this honor. However, recent discoveries suggest that Sri Bhudev Mookerji was also honored with the title “Rasacharya” for compiling the monumental publication Rasa Jala Nidhi in five volumes. This comprehensive discussion aims to shine a light on the extraordinary life and significant contributions of Rasacharya Sri Chivukula Satyanarayan Sastry, an outstanding figure in Ayurveda.

Management of COVID-19 patients of CT Severity 15/25 and above with Ayurveda drugs as add-on therapy – A Case Series

Ayurveda, which is the oldest life science in the world, has yet to be fully accepted as the only or even an additional therapy for severe diseases. It is a common perception that Ayurveda has a significant role in the preventive aspect of diseases, and the drugs of Ayurveda are more effective in chronic ailments. Most publications are also limited to these areas only, as use of Ayurveda in acute or severe cases is not yet justified scientifically because of the lack of significant scientific clinical data as very few case reports are published about the use of Ayurveda in acute cases. Here we present a case series of treatment of five COVID-19 patients with CT Severity 15/25 and above with Ayurveda drugs as add-on therapy admitted to tertiary care, a Level-3 COVID-19 treatment hospital. These five patients sought Ayurveda opinion and consented to Ayurveda treatment along with the ongoing treatment regime. All the patients showed improvement with Ayurveda treatment as an add-on therapy, and none of the patients needed ICU, and all patients were discharged when they started maintaining oxygen saturation at room air. This report addresses the clinical effectiveness of Ayurveda drugs as add-on therapy in severe cases of COVID -19. It also attempts to invite the attention of researchers towards the use of Ayurveda concepts and drugs in severe or acute cases of diseases.

SHOBHANJANA (MORINGA OLEIFERA LAM.) FLOWER: A PHARMACOLOGICAL REVIEW

Moringa oleifera Lam. is, plant of the Moringaceae family, which is also known as drumstick tree, miracle tree due to its miraculous effects. It contains various macronutrients and micronutrients such as vitamins. It contains Bioactive Plant Compounds such as flavonoids, tannins, phenolic acids, sterols, etc. which directly or indirectly affects the organism consuming it. Moringa oleifera flowers possess antioxidant, anti-cancerous, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, chemo-protective activity. Along with its hepatoprotective action, it is used in splenic disorders also. Ayurveda mentions the Moringa oleifera Lam. in the treatment of various diseases such as Gulma, Arbuda (tumors) due to its intensive penetrative properties, in Vidradhi (abscess), in eye diseases, etc. It is well known Ayurveda drug for its capacity to act as mucolytic, fat metabolizer, aphrodisiac and cell nutri-tive. It lowers Vata and Kapha dosha, and lessens worms, edema, and abscesses. Moringa oleifera is able to treat obesity, lymphadenitis, tumors, thyroid enlargement and ulcers/wounds. Moringa oleifera flowers are in-cluded under Pushpa shaka. Bhavprakash emphasised the benefits of Moringa flowers for treating worm infesta-tions, splenic disorders, abscesses, Kapha and Vata conditions, and inflammation of the tendons, etc. In recent studies, Moringa oleifera Lam. flower extracts have shown cell proliferation activity in rat fibroblasts, MSCs and angiogenesis.

PHARMACEUTICAL STUDY OF ERANDA TAILA EXTRACTED FROM ERANDA BEEJA WITH AND WITHOUT SHODHANA

Eranda Taila (castor oil) is a widely used drug in Ayurveda. The classical texts Yogaratnakara and Rasatarangini have mentioned the shodhana process (purificatory procedure) of Eranda beeja (Ricinus communis Linn. seeds). Shodhana aims to nullify or reduce toxins and improve the therapeutic efficacy and potency of a drug. The shodhana of Eranda beeja (castor seeds) was performed as per the classics, using the method of swedana, which involves heating a pottali (cloth pouch) containing decorticated Eranda beeja immersed in narikelodaka (fresh tender coconut water) for 3 hours. Eranda Taila was extracted from shodhita (purified) and ashodhita (unpurified) Eranda beeja using the traditional method of castor oil extraction. The obtained shodhita Eranda Taila was light brown, had the characteristic odour of coconut and castor, was less nauseating, and was yielded in higher quantity than ashodhita Eranda Taila. The ashodhita Eranda Taila was creamish yellow and exhibited the characteristic odour of castor.

An Approach to the Management of Dizziness (Murcha) and Vertigo (Bhrama) Based on Ayurvedic Classics

Ayurveda is a science of life as it defines health and factors responsible for its maintenance and promotion. It is one of the oldest traditional systems of medicine which comprises of thousands of concepts and hypothesis. The primary objective of Ayurveda includes maintenance of health and prevention of diseases. At present, dizziness and vertigo are common symptoms in the patients with the rising prevalence of about 20%. Dizziness is correlated with Murcha in Ayurveda, which is a general feeling of being unstable and fainting whereas vertigo is correlated with Bhrama which is illusion of self and environmental motion. Modern medicines nowadays have harmful impact on health due to their side effects that affect the quality of life. So this is the need of the time that a direct, safe and holistic approach should be established to treat the diseases. The fundamental principles hold a strong ground in Ayurveda. Our Ayurveda classics have mentioned a lot about signs and symptoms of various diseases with their specific herbs. Ayurveda drugs popularity and demand are increasing day by day. Ayurveda drugs are helpful in treating the dizziness (Murcha) and vertigo (Bhrama) through the principles of nature to bring back the individual into equilibrium.

Therapeutic potential of Triphala and Gomutra in the management of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A review

Abstract Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is a medical burden that is rapidly increasing globally. It is believed to be a complication of metabolic syndrome. It frequently coexists with one or more symptoms of the metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is closely related to the range of illnesses listed under Santarpanajanya Vyadhi (diseases due to over-nutrition) as per Ayurveda. The conventional medical system has less to offer for treating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Ayurveda has tremendous scope in the treatment of these types of diseases. Triphala and Gomutra (cow urine) are reputed drugs in Ayurveda. These are mentioned for treating diseases caused by Santarpana (over-nutrition). Hence, an attempt has been made to review the properties of Triphala and Gomutra (cow urine) to emphasize their utility in treating Santarpanajanya Vyadhi (diseases due to over-nutrition) with special reference to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The properties and pharmacological actions of Triphala and Gomutra (cow urine) can be used to manage non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Role of Ayurveda Drugs in Management of Fungal Skin Lesions of a Pediatric Age Group Patient – Case Study

Skin is the largest organ of the body. Because of the largest and maximum exposure to the environment, it is most likely to be infected, infested, and injured. Correspondingly, according to the World Health Organization (W.H.O.), Skin diseases have a high prevalence in the child age group (21-87%) in most developing countries and 10-20% of patients all over the world suffer from various fungal infections. An environment that is suitable and rich for fungal growth, the use of readily available and resistant drugs, and the low immunity of the child make the infection chronic and worrisome. Ayurveda simulates fungal infection with Dadru which is considered among Chudrakushtha (~minor skin diseases). In this case study, a six-year-old girl who was suffering from chronic fungal infections was treated through Ayurveda oral medications like Shatavari Churna, Jahar Mohra Pishti, Trikatu, Gandhak Rasayan, and Vidanga Lauh in Yoga(~mixture) form along with Lepa (~ paste for local application) having Triphala Churna, Dhatura, and Nimba leaves paste for sixty days. The effect of the treatment was seen from the evaluation scale obtained from previous research studies which yielded better results. Thus this study shows the effective use of Ayurveda medicines especially in fungal skin lesions in children.

A phytopharmacological review of the classical Ayurveda drug Puga (Areca catechu L.)

A phytopharmacological review of the classical Ayurveda drug Puga (Areca catechu L.)

Comparative evaluation of the anti-diabetic activity of Echinops echinatus Roxb (Utkatar) root ghana versus Nishaamalaki in pre-diabetic patients – a study protocol

Background In Ayurveda, disease causing biophysical energies (dosha) should be conquered at the initial stage. In the six stages of disease formation (Shatkriyakal), symptoms and signs can be seen in the localization stage (Sthansamshray), where amalgamation of vitiated biophysical energies with weak and susceptible tissues (dosha–dushya sammurchana) occur thereby manifesting disease. Echinops echinatus Roxb (Utkatar) is a traditionally used, classically described extra-pharmacopeial drug in Ayurveda, but less scientifically (clinically) explored medicinal herb. Few pre-clinical studies done on this plant revealed its anti-diabetic action but no clinical trial is noted till date. So, there is an urgent need to bridge the gap between the pre-clinical studies and empirical knowledge. Hence the present research work will be undertaken with the aim of exploring the anti-diabetic potential of Echinops echinatus Roxb (Utkatar) in Type II pre-diabetic patients. Aim and objectives Comparative evaluation of the anti-diabetic activity of Echinops echinatus Roxb (Utkatara) root ghana versus Nishaamalaki in pre-diabetic patients. Methods A total of 60 participants who meet the inclusion criteria will be chosen after conducting a drug analysis and divided into two groups of 30 each. Both Echinops echinatus Roxb (Utkatar) root ghana and Nishaamalaki will be administered twice daily for 30 days to groups A and B, respectively. After the intervention, assessment will be conducted on days 0, 1, 15, and 30. Day 45 will be reserved for follow-up. Results The observations of objective characteristics will be used to derive the results. Conclusion Based on statistical information derived from the data gathered, the study’s conclusion will be made.

Anxiety and Depression management through Ayurveda drugs and Panchakarma

For about last one hundred year, two conditions which have affected human life in a profound way are Anxiety and Depression. When an individual is affected in any disease condition the major things which will be affected in their life are health and their financial condition but in these two conditions a patient’s life will be affected in every possible way be it financially, socially etc., these conditions more than being a diseased state sadly it has become a stigma especially in our Indian sub-continent both in rural and urban areas.

Comparative phytochemical profiling of different parts of Saraca asoca

Saraca asoca is a plant that is widely used in Ayurveda drug preparations and is most used in Ashokarista. The bark of the plant is used and the removal of the bark from the plant is a destructive mode of material collection and it eventually kills the plant leading to resource scarcity. The present study made an attempt to assess the possibility of using other plant parts of S. asoca in place of bark. Major phytochemicals including alkaloids, carbohydrates, phenols, glycosides, quinones, coumarins, terpenoids, flavonoids, and tannins, were observed to be present in bark, young stem and leaf samples with varying levels. Saponins and anthocyanins were absent in bark and young stem samples, however present in leaf samples. The study showed a completely different GC–MS profile indicating the presence of different volatile molecules in different plant parts. The HPTLC fingerprint of different plant parts of S. asoca represents the characteristic markers of this herb. The study provided the quantitative evaluation of gallic acid present in the bark, young stem and leaves of S. asoca. The leaves of S. asoca are found to have maximum content of gallic acid compared to bark and young stem. The study concludes that the substitution of bark with young stems and leaves may not be a viable option considering their phytochemical constitution. However, the increased level of gallic acid in leaves can be considered as a promising option, wherein the activity of gallic acid is modulating the drug action.

Efficacy and safety of Naga Bhasma and Nisha-Amalaki Churna in the management of Madhumeha (type 2 diabetes) - A double-blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial

Abstract Background: Increasing global incidence of diabetes is a serious issue and large number of researches are undergoing to find promising cure of this chronic disease. Many Ayurveda drugs have been evaluated for anti-diabetic properties; however, researches on metallic/mineral based drugs are very few. The present study aimed to assess the comparative efficacy and safety of Shashti Puta Naga Bhasma (SNB) - Trimshati Puta Naga Bhasma (TNB) with Nisha-Amalaki Churna (NAC), NAC and metformin in the management of type 2 diabetes. Materials and methods: In this prospective, randomized, double blind, active controlled study; 132 patients with type 2 diabetes were included and randomly divided into four groups. Patients were treated with NAC (125 mg) with placebo (roasted Sooji; course powder of wheat flour), SNB (62.5 mg) with NAC (125 mg), TNB (62.5 mg) with NAC (125 mg) twice daily before food with honey while patients in last group were continued with their ongoing Tablet Metformin 500 mg prescribed by physician as standard control without any other additional intervention for 90 days. The assessment of changes observed in blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin, lipid profile, hemogram, hepatic, renal profile, and clinical symptoms was carried out. Results: After 90 days of medication, fasting and postprandial blood glucose levels and clinical symptoms in three groups were significantly decreased when compared with baseline except NAC group. Hemogram and hepatic and renal profiles (safety parameters) in the four groups were not significantly different from the baseline. No adverse events were reported with the use of the studied medicine. Conclusion: SNB along with NAC possessed more symptomatic relief in comparison to TNB with NAC, NAC alone and Metformin thereby improving the quality of life of patients along with significant glycemic control and free from any significant side effects.

In vitro Study: Determining the Antibacterial Activity of Different Concentrations of Essential Oil against Streptococcus sanguinis Isolated from supragingival Plaque

Several mouth diseases are common health issues, including dental caries and periodontal disease. In the absence of prevention, these conditions result in periodontal pockets. It has been proven that periodontal diseases are associated with supra-gingival plaque bacteria, including Streptococcus sanguinis. To avoid antibiotic side effects and bacteria becoming increasingly resistant, an alternative to antibacterial agents must be developed to ensure no side effects or increased resistance. As a consequence, natural herbs and Ayurveda drugs have become increasingly important. This research aims to investigate the antibacterial activity of Eucalyptus Globules essential oil against Streptococcus sanguinis bacteria. An evaluation of the anti-microbial effects of different concentrations of Eucalyptus Globules oil on Streptococcus sanguinis bacteria was conducted using a well-plate approach was also utilized to compare the effects of Eucalyptus Globules oil on bacterial growth in comparison to 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwash. It was found that Eucalyptus Globules essential oil was highly antibacterial against Streptococcus sanguinis as the concentration of extract increased, with a highly significant difference (P ≤ 0.01) between all concentrations and chlorhexidine. Thus, this antibacterial activity of Eucalyptus Globules essential oil against Streptococcus sanguinis suggests that it could be used as a natural antibacterial component in treating oral infections. Keywords: Essential oil, Eucalyptus Globules, Dental plaque, Antibacterial activity.

Traditional Indian Medicine Improves Clinical Outcome in Non-alcoholic fatty Liver diseases - A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background: Non- Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is a rapidly emerging liver disease linked strongly to metabolic syndrome. In the absence of specific pharmacological agents for the effective treatment of NAFLD, current treatment mainly focuses on lifestyle and dietary modifications. Several agents referenced in Ayurvedic texts have shown promising effects in patients over centuries of use. But the outcomes reported by various randomized clinical trials (RCTs) for the efficacy of herbs in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are conflicting. Objective: This study aims to systematically review and conduct meta-analysis of the available evidence to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Ayurveda-referenced drugs. Methodology: The electronic databases PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane library, and ARP were searched up to May 2022 to identify relevant studies. Quality of studies was evaluated using modified Jadad Scale. Risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane risk of bias tool. Result: The search retrieved 1352 studies, but only 18 studies were finally evaluated. Statistical analysis showed significant reduction in grades of fatty liver (RR: 2.42, 95% CI; 1.52, 3.86), AST (SMD: -0.91, 95% CI; -1.04, 0.08;) and ALT (SMD = − 0.91; 95% CI; − 1.53, − 0.28; P < 0.00001). Conclusion: Ayurveda drugs have shown positive results in managing NAFLD, as evidenced by the limited available data. More quality-based RCT’s using standardized Ayurveda drugs with large sample sizes and taking histological outcomes into consideration must be conducted to generate stronger evidence.

CONTRACEPTIVE IN AYURVEDA WITH EXPERIMENTAL AND CLINICAL EVIDENCE

Introduction The global population is growing considerably more quickly. Numerous socioeconomic conditions of people have had negative effects as well. There are several negative effects associated with current contraceptive methods. Controlling fertility is crucial for preserving acceptable living standards and improving existing ones in emerging nations. There are Single as well as Combination drugs mentioned in Ayurveda. Much Ayurvedic research done on Garbhanirodhaka Dravyas (Contraceptive drugs) in Ayurveda, and they are safe and have better results. Material and Method- Ancient classical, review of published articles, and research articles on the subjects related to contraception are undertaken. Result & Discussion- Numerous plants have been referenced in ancient literature, some of which have been confirmed to be effective contraceptives through animal testing and clinical trials, while others require further scientific investigation to establish their efficiency. Conclusion- Animal experiments were done on drugs like Vidanga, Pippli, Japa Pushpa, Chitraka, etc. have been found effective as antifertility. Clinical studies have been done and proven effective with pharmacological evidence but there is however some scope for improving the composition, dose, or period of treatment so as to achieve still better results.

Seed Germination and Seedling Growth Performance in Convolvulus microphyllus under Different Soil Mixture Ratio and Sowing Depth

It is a source of an important drug in Ayurveda known as Shankhpushpi. The whole herb is used medicinally in the form of decoction. It is also described as one of the Medhya Rasayana drugs in Ayurveda. The Shankhpushpi drug is used as brain tonic and as a laxative. The article presents the data on seed germination, seedling growth, and different agro techniques of Convolvulus microphyllus under nursery conditions. Results revealed that Seed sowing at 0.5 cm depth with1:2:2 soil mixture ratios (sand: clay: FYM) were found to be most favourable for obtaining maximum growth and biomass.

Indigenous Wisdom of Ayurvedic Drugs to Treat Liver Disorders-Review Article

The liver, a vital organ in the body, synthesizes hormones, decomposes RBC in the blood, and regulates glycogen storage. The liver also performs detoxification and is the primary site for drug metabolism. Therefore, hepatoprotective medications are necessary to keep the liver in good health. Ayurvedic drugs are widely used as hepatoprotective agents. The study aims to review the Yakrit (liver) concept in Ayurvedic literature, identify hepatoprotective plants from classical Ayurveda texts, and understand their mode of action on the liver based on existing scientific evidence. The classical Ayurveda literature and electronic databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, and ARP were searched until October 2022 to find relevant studies using MESH terms. The search of classical Ayurveda texts showed several herbal sources that are advocated for use in liver disorders. The in vivo studies for these plants showed that seven protected the liver from CCl4-induced hepatic damage. Furthermore, the levels of liver enzymes were reduced, and there was evidence of reversal of fatty changes in the liver in mice fed with a high-fat diet. One of the essential organs that aid in sustaining bodily health is the liver. Some plants have been endowed by nature with the ability to treat, prevent, and cure liver disorders while causing fewer negative effects. Herb-based Ayurveda drugs can be a potent source of hepatoprotective agents, though detailed studies need to be conducted to generate more substantial evidence.

A literature Investigation on Ayurveda Drugs for the Preparation of Cosmetic Products

A literature Investigation on Ayurveda Drugs for the Preparation of Cosmetic Products

Protocol for a Systematic review and Network meta-analysis of Randomized controlled trials examining the effectiveness of Ayurveda Interventions in management of Covid 19 positive patients

Background: Almost a year to the pandemic situation gone, but still no approved scientific treatment only experimental cocktail for novel coronavirus disease. Ayurveda as a complementary medicine, claims the Ayurveda drug has strong immunity boosting and anti-inflammatory benefits against the coronavirus. To get a global recognition, AYUSH system encourages to carry a randomized controlled clinical trial to treat novel coronavirus disease. In this study, we aimed to summarize the effectiveness of Ayurveda interventions and which interventions are most effective in management of COVID19 positive patients. Methods: To ensure relative efficacy of Ayurveda interventions in management of COVID 19 positive patients, we will systematically search randomized controlled trials and quasi-randomised controlled trials in electronic databases. Also, we will search unpublish material from pre-print servers and grey literature. Two independent researchers will conduct the selection process based on inclusion and exclusion criteria according to PRISMA guidelines. Upon selection, we will carry out quality assessment with the help of GRADE and risk of bias assessment using Cochrane Collaboration’s Risk of Bias Assessment Tool. Using R-3.4.1 software to process and analyse data. Result: The results of this study will be published in a peer-reviewed journal. Discussion: The findings from this study will provide directions for further research and provide helpful evidence for clinicians to formulate best Ayurveda treatment strategy for management of COVID-19 positive patients. Systematic review registration: International Prospective Register for Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) number CRD42021267410.

Medico-Ethon-Botanical Study of Indigenous and Migrated Medicinal Plants Diversity at Kothi Village in Kangra District of Himachal Pradesh in India: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Ayurveda and medicinal plants of folklore are the primary sources of health care in rural areas of India. Medicinal plants are the basis of Ayurveda drugs. Kothi village at an elevation of around 1,100m from the sea level is a hamlet in Kangra District of Himachal Pradesh and it has a good diversity of medicinal plants. The medicinal plants' diversity in this village is not studied to date. This cross-sectional survey study (observational study of descriptive and analytical type) was conducted to discover the diversity of medicinal plants in the Kothi village. The medicinal plant diversity at RGGPGAC&H territory was the sample chosen for this study. The total diversity of medicinal plants in the Kothi village was considered as the population of the study. Questionnaire based interviews and discussions with local villagers and sellers were used as a method for medicinal plants sample collection from the sample area. The sample medicinal plants were then verified by the faculty of PGDD at RGGPGAC&H. After verification, samples were cross-verified with authoritative publications by the government of Himachal Pradesh and India. A total of 151 different indigenous cum migrated medicinal plant diversity belonging to 69 families is found occurring in the Kothi village.