Indigenous System Of Medicine Research Articles

GC- MS Analysis of Ethylacetate extract of leaves of Clitoria ternatea Linn

Clitoria ternatea is a twing perennial herb and very common garden flower plant all over india.it is a good-looking herb showing different varieties. Clitoria ternatea plant materials have been extensively used in the indigenous system of medicine. The present study shows the ethylacetate extract of leaf of Clitoria ternatea subjected to GC –MS analysis to detect the presence of various phytoconstituents in the plant.

Beneficial effects of roots of Argyreia nervosa (Brum.f.) Bojer on testosterone biosynthesis in testis and spermatogenesis in Wistar rats

Ethnopharmacological relevanceRoots of Argyreia nervosa (Burm.f.) Bojer is used traditionally as an aphrodisiac and mentioned in the indigenous system of medicine as spermatogenic. The roots of the plant are also used as bitter, tonic, and alternative. Aim of the studyTo study the effect of n-butanol fraction (BTF) and ethyl acetate fraction (ETF) of methanol extract prepared from the roots of Argyreia nervosa and scopoletin isolated from ETF on testosterone biosynthesis in testis and spermatogenesis using rats. Materials and methodsThe effect of BTF, ETF, and scopoletin on the testosterone biosynthesis was evaluated by determining the alteration in expression of mRNA corresponding to steroidogenic enzymes and concentration of testosterone using TM-3 cell line. The ability of BTF and ETF in altering the level of testicular cholesterol and testosterone along with mRNA expression corresponding to 3β-Hydroxy-Δ5-steroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) and Acute Steroid Regulatory Protein (StAR) was evaluated using rats as experimental animals. The sperm concentration in the seminal fluid was determined, and histological studies of testicular tissues were also carried out. ResultsTest solutions containing BTF, ETF, and scopoletin showed a dose-dependent and statistically significant increase in the testosterone content when incubated with TM-3 cells. The test solutions also increased the fold expression of mRNA corresponding to StAR and 3β-HSD enzymes from TM-3 cells. BTF and ETF elevated testicular testosterone levels by 3.57 and 3.84-fold as compared to control animals, while the fractions showed 9.04 and 10.41-fold alteration in expression of mRNA corresponding to StAR, respectively. BTF and ETF altered the expression of mRNA corresponding to 3β-HSD by 13.43 and 15.04-fold in testicular tissues; moreover, they elevated the activity of 3β-HSD by 7.11 and 7.73 fold, respectively. The animals treated with BTF and ETF showed increased sperm concentration. Histological observations showed that the lumen of seminiferous tubules was densely populated with spermatozoa and Leydig cells were intensely stained. Extract prepared from fruits of Tribulus terrestris Linn and testosterone served as positive controls. ConclusionBTF, ETF, and scopoletin could promote testosterone biosynthesis by elevating mRNA expression corresponding to StAR, 3β-HSD, and by increasing 3β-HSD activity in the testicular tissues. Elevated testosterone concentration in testis promoted spermatogenesis. The studies provided the probable mechanism through which the roots of A. nervosa act as spermatogenic.

Increased expression of co-stimulatory molecules and enhancement of the IgG response in rats orally administered with a polyherbal formulation

BackgroundLink Samahan® (LS) is a standardized modern formulation of a polyherbal preparation used in the indigenous system of medicine in Sri Lanka. ObjectiveEvaluation of the immunostimulatory activity of LS and the molecular mechanisms that modulate the humoral immune response. Material and methodsImmunostimulatory activity of LS was tested in rats following oral administration on days 1-5 and 15-19 and immunization with bovine serum albumin (BSA) on day 1 and 15. Anti-BSA IgM and IgG response in rats treated with LS, water and sugar (as controls) were compared on days 0-35, using ELISA. The expression of co-stimulatory molecules on lymphocytes was assessed on days 0-8 and days 14-22 using RT-qPCR. ResultsIgM and IgG levels of LS-treated rats were increased significantly by day 7 and 21 respectively compared to controls (p < 0.05). IgG response of LS-treated group reached a higher magnitude compared to its IgM response. Gene expression of CD28 and CD40L on T cells (4.9-5.1 fold) and CD80, CD86 and CD40 on APCs (2.4-3.1 fold) were induced significantly by day 2 compared to their expression on day 0 (p < 0.05). The expression levels of CD28 and CD40L on day 2-4 and 16-18 were similar while the expression of CD80, CD86 and CD40 on day 16-18 was higher (3.7-5.1 folds) compared to their levels on day 2-4 (2.4-3.2). ConclusionsThese findings support an adjuvant effect of LS contributing to its immunostimulatory activity and increased expression of co-stimulatory molecules that contribute to boosting immune response.

Culinary Spices in Food and Medicine: An Overview of Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merr. and L. M. Perry [Myrtaceae

Spices-dried aromatic parts of plants (leaves, seeds, bark, roots, rhizomes, buds, etc) used to enhance flavour, taste and colour (sensory quality) of foods, are increasingly finding other useful roles in healthcare beyond their primary use as culinary organoleptic enhancers. Several spices are currently being investigated for their potential health benefits, because of the failing efficacy, toxicity and high cost associated with conventional drugs. One such spice: Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merr. and L.M.Perry [Myrtaceae] (Clove), has a multi-dimensional role in diet, medicine, functional foods and nutraceuticals, agriculture, among other industries. Peer-reviewed articles, mostly from PubMed and Google Scholar, were consulted for the purpose of this review. The nutritional and phytochemical contents, selected biological activities as well as some functional foods and beverages of clove and their uses for human health are presented. Although these observations are largely empirical, the efficacious attributes have led to their pharmacological applications in the indigenous system of medicine all over the world and bridge between food, diet and medicine. Considering the GRAS status of clove, more studies on bioavailability, accumulation, toxicity, dosage and efficacy of clove as a spice drug or functional foods in biological systems especially in humans are required. Meanwhile, clove and its products can be used as co-adjuvants in the prevention, treatment and management of chronic diseases. Further, many applications of clove in food, health, cosmetics, pharmaceutics, nanoparticles and agricultural industries are still open for investigations.

Phytochemical analysis and antimicrobial activity of Lantana camara

Family Verbenaceae has been an important coniferous plant in ayurvedic and indigenous medicinal systems. The Clinical trials and animal research support the use of for anti-spasmodic, carminative, anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, anti-malarial, anti-ulcer genic, treatment of emotional stress and trauma, anti-microbial, insecticidal, fungicidal, and asthma. The present study was planned for extraction, phytochemical analysis, powder characteristics and the antimicrobial activity of the of crude extract. Phytochemical analysis showed presence of various secondary metabolites like alkaloids, saponins, tannins, glycosides and terpenoids. Antibacterial activity of against showed positive results.

ANTIUROLITHIATIC ACTIVITY OF ETHANOLIC EXTRACT OF EICHHORNIA CRASSIPES (MART.) SOLMS WHOLE PLANT ON ETHYLENE GLYCOL-INDUCED UROLITHIASIS IN WISTAR RATS

Objective: In India Indigenous system of medicine, the plant Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms is claimed to be useful for different ailments. The purpose of this study is to investigate the significant activity of the ethanolic extract of E. crassipes (Mart.) Solms whole plant in the treatment of renal stone by ethylene glycol (EG)-induced urolithiasis in Wistar rats. Methods: Wistar rat will be divided into four groups. All the animals received EG 0.75%v/v by orally for 28 days. Group I was received 0.75%v/v EG for 28 days. Groups II, III, and IV were received cystone, ethanolic extract of E. crassipes (Mart.) Solms (200 mg/kg, and 400 mg/kg), respectively, administered orally from 15th to 28th day for curative regimen. Animals were housed in metabolic cages and collect the 24 h urine samples and serum samples on the 7th, 14th, 21th, and 28th day of the experiments. Under the microscopical study to observe the crystals in urine sample. The biochemical parameters monitored in the present study are calcium, oxalate, magnesium, phosphorus, urea, creatinine, uric acid, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in urine and serum samples. Results: The EG feeding resulted in elevated renal excretion of calcium, phosphate, oxalate, and decreased renal excretion of magnesium as well-elevated serum BUN, creatinine, uric acid, urea, LDH levels, and decreased the urine pH and urine volume. Treatment of the ethanolic extract of E. crassipes (Mart.) Solms significantly reduced the elevated calcium, phosphate, oxalate in urine as well as BUN, creatinine, uric acid, urea, and LDH level in serum. It also restores the normal urine pH and promotes the urine output. Conclusion: Ethanolic extract of E. crassipes (Mart.) Solms exhibited significant anti-urolithiatic activity evident from urine calcium, phosphate, oxalate levels and serum BUN, creatinine, uric acid, urea and LDH levels.

A systematic ethnobotanical review of Adhatoda vasica (L.), Nees.

Adhatoda vasica (L.), Nees belonging to the family Acanthaceae is a shrub with opposite ascending branches. The plant has been used in the indigenous system of medicine in India for near about 2500 years. It is a well-known plant as a drug in Ayurvedic and Unani medicines. Traditionally it was used for the treatment of various acute and chronic diseases and showed strong pharmacological activity particularly for bronchial infections, cough, bacterial infections, reproductive disorders, cardiac diseases and many more. Various phytochemicals like alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, etc. were obtained from Adhatoda vasica (A. vasica). The active constituent of the plant is vasicine, l-vasicinone, deoxyvasicine, maiontone, vasicinolone and vasicinol etc. This review consists of updated information on the phyto-constituents isolated from A. vasica and their potential role in the treatment of various ailments traditionally and medically. Based on the critical review it was concluded that there is not sufficient scientifically strong evidence to explain that A. vasica extract, could be harmful to human beings especially in pregnant women. Major data on traditional uses as well as toxicological studies, evaluated various correctness, relevance, importance, and reliability for the overall evaluation of A. vasica safety. Numerous clinical trials are conducted around the globe on the herbal formulations of vasaka. This review includes strong data about phytochemical and ethnopharmacological studies that indicate that A. vasica is a versatile native plant of the Indian subcontinent having a commercial reputation and thus can be encouraged for diversified applications like medicinal and other potential uses.

Dose-dependent Spasmolytic, Bronchodilator, and Hypotensive Activities of Panicum miliaceum L.

Panicum miliaceum L. is a medicinally effective plant used in indigenous system of medicine for a variety of ailments. However, there is no comprehensive study explaining its effectiveness in gastrointestinal tract, respiratory, and cardiovascular system ailments. This study was designed to validate the pharmacological basis for the folkloric use of Panicum miliaceum L. in diarrhea, asthma, and hypertension. Panicum miliaceum extract was analyzed to detect the presence of bioactive compounds by HPLC. The isolated rabbit jejunum, trachea, and aorta were used for in vitro experiments using tissue bath assembly coupled with Power Lab data acquisition system to explore their relative effects. In-vivo experiments were performed for anti-diarrheal activity. HPLC analysis revealed the presence of gallic acid, butylated hydroxytoluene, catechin, and quercetin. Concentration dependent activities were observed by relaxing K+ (low) induced contractions having spasmolytic effect with EC50 = .358 ± .052, bronchodilator (EC50 = 2.483 ± .05793), and vasorelaxant (EC50 = .383 ± .063), probably due to the ATP dependent potassium channel activation. It was confirmed through pre-exposure of glibenclamide (specific ATP-dependent K+ channel blocker) having similarities with cromakalim. Pm.Cr revealed its antidiarrheal via in vivo experiments on rats. This study indicates that Panicum miliaceum has antidiarrheal, spasmolytic, bronchodilator, and vasorelaxant activities probably due to the ATP dependent K+ channel activation.

Reviving Ayurveda as a Component of AYUSH

Ayurveda is an ancient system of healthcare and a way of life that deals with the prevention and promotion of health and treatment of various acute and chronic difficult-to-treat ailments. The knowledge of Ayurveda is precious but it somehow lost its charm in past due to lack of utilization of its propositions clinically. The relevance of AYUSH is becoming more important in the present scenario because of changes in the disease spectrum and notion that prevention of disease could be equally (and at times only) significant thing to achieve. This has bought new scientific insights to the basic theories of Ayurveda. Recent declaration of the establishment of WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine (GCTM) in Jamnagar with the acquiescence of Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization and honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, will definitely add credit to the present account. Also, it will serve the original essence of Ayurveda by taking it to reach of every mankind with sufficient and reliable services. This short communication is just an attempt to provide a brief map to the journey of the uprising of indigenous systems of medicine with the establishment of Ministry of AYUSH.

Antimicrobial Activity of Selenium Nanoparticles and Pterocarpus santalinus Based Mouthwash

Introduction: Their unique size-dependent properties make these materials superior and indispensable in many areas of human activity. Selenium possesses excellent photo electrical and semiconductor properties which make it extensively used in duplicate, photography, cells and rectifiers. Selenium is also one of essential trace elements in the human body and has great importance in nourishment and medicine. In India, medicinal plants are widely used by all sections of people either directly as folk remedies or in different indigenous systems of medicine or indirectly in the pharmaceutical preparations of modern medicines. The aim of the present study is to determine antimicrobial activity of selenium nanoparticles and Pterocarpus santalinus based mouthwash.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: Antimicrobial activity of respective nanoparticles against the strain staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus and E Coli. MH Aagar was utilized for this activity to determine the zone of inhibition. Muller hinton agar was prepared and sterilized for 45 minutes at 120 lbs. Media poured into the sterilized plates and let them stabilize for solidification. The wells were cut using the well cutter and the test organisms were swabbed. The nanoparticles with different concentrations were loaded and the plates were incubated for 24 hours at 37 degree celsius. After the incubation the zones of inhibition were measured. &#x0D; Results: The highest zones of inhibition were exhibited against two bacterial strains Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus mutans proving that it acts as a good antibacterial against S.aureus and S.mutans infections.

Review on Capsicum frutescens, A Tribal herbal food used as Medicine

Nature always stands as a golden mark to exemplify the outstanding phenomena of symbiosis. Natural products from plant, animal and minerals have been the basis of the treatment of human disease. About 500 plants with medicinal use are mentioned in ancient literature and around 800 plants have been used in indigenous systems of medicine. India is a vast repository of medicinal plants that are used in traditional medical treatments. Capsicum frutescens. belonging to the family of Solanaceae is an extremely valuable medicinal herb, distributed throughout India. in traditional medicine, due to presence of phytochemicals it has been used for the treatment of cough, toothache, sore throat, parasitic infections, rheumatism, wound healing etc. Other effects such as antibacterial and anticancer are also their properties. In this article, its phytochemical screening, pharmacognostic studies, pharmacological activity screening will be reviewed out.

Tulsi (Ocimum Sanctum Linn.): AN AYURVEDIC AND CONTEMPORARY REVIEW

Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum Linn. Family - Lamiaceae) has been revered in India for over five thousand years, as a healing balm for body, mind and spirit, and is known to bestow an amazing number of health benefits. It is a me- dicinal herb used in the indigenous system of medicine. Tulsi has been adored in almost all ancient ayurvedic texts for its extraordinary medicinal properties. It is pungent –bitter(tikta) in taste and hot (Ushna), light(laghu) and dry(ruksa) in effect. Its seeds are considered to be cold in effect. The roots, leaves and seeds of Tulsi possess several medicinal properties. Ayurvedic texts categorise Tulsi as a stimulant, aromatic and antipyretic. In the pre- sent review, the reported scientific activity of Tulsi is compiled and collected from different compendia and avail- able literature presented systematically. In the present review, the references related to Tulsi are collected and compiled from different Ayurvedic texts, Modern research articles and other relevant compendia. This review is presented in a systematic manner which will help the researchers as well as clinicians dealing with Tulsi to know its proper usage as this herb is seemed to be highly valuable, possessing many pharmacological/medicinal proper- ties according to Ayurveda as well as modern aspects. Keywords: Ayurveda, Drug Research, Holy basil, Immunity, Tulsi

Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Nutraceutical Profile of Carissa Species: An Updated Review.

Carissa, a genus of the Apocynaceae family, consists of evergreen species, such as shrubs as well as small trees that are native to Asia, Africa, and Oceania’s subtropical and tropical regions. Most of the Carissa species are traditionally used to treat various diseases, such as chest pain, headaches, gonorrhoea, rheumatism, syphilis, oedema, rabies, stomach pain, hepatitis, cardiac diseases, and asthma. The pharmacological studies on Carissa species revealed its antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer, cardioprotective, antipyretic, analgesic, wound healing, anticonvulsant, antiarthritic, adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic activities, thus validating its use in indigenous medicine systems. The review article summarised the comprehensive literature available, including morphology, indigenous uses, bioactive composition, nutraceutical, and pharmacological activities of Carissa species. A total of 155 research papers were cited in this review article. The Carissa fruits are rich in dietary fibre, lipids, proteins, carbohydrates, vitamin C, and macro- and micro-elements. A total of 121 compounds (35 polyphenols (flavonoids and phenolic acids), 30 lignans, 41 terpenoids, 7 steroids, 2 coumarins, and 6 cardiac glycosides) have been extracted from C. spinarum, C. carandas, and C. macrocarpa. Among all chemical constituents, lupeol, carissol, naringin, carisssone, scopoletin, carissaeduloside A, D, J, carandinol, sarhamnoloside, carissanol, olivil, carinol, 3β-hydroxyolean-11-en-28,13β-oilde, ursolic acid, and carissone are the key bioactive constituents responsible for pharmacological activities of genus Carissa. The gathered ethnopharmacological information in the review will help to understand the therapeutic relevance of Carissa as well as paving a way for further exploration in the discovery of novel plant-based drugs.

Tamilarin Naattu Maruthuva Varalaaru (History of Indigenous Tamils Medicinal System)

Tamils have their indigenous system of Traditional medicine (Siddha medicinal system) which developed through ages, from the dream time in the past and still evolving. This system of medicine did not evolve in a single day, it took a prolonged period, through vast experience gathered through observation of the human body, and its symptoms towards diseases and examination of thousands of herbs, metals, and minerals to cure the diseases. This skill and wisdom have been passed over generations which made this system one of the most efficient medicinal systems of our time. But over time this Tamil system of medicine was suppressed and underestimated in the name of modern science, the biased-prejudiced propaganda and hatred spread by huge pharma groups against this system, to prove that this system of medicine is irrational and unscientific which not true. Same time the lack of support from the government side in the previous years to enhance this Tamil Siddha medicinal system, made the scenario favor western medicinal pharma groups. However, the scenarios are been changing with the wakening of Tamils’ political and historical consciousness. It is for sure that soon Tamil’s traditional system of Medicine will retrieve and rise with its unique philosophy and virtue.

Chyavanprash: A Multimodal Approach to COVID-19 Management

The word Chyavanprash (CP) comprises of ‘Chyawan’ and ‘Prasha’. Chyavan represents ‘degenerative change’ and Prasha symbolises a drug. Enhancement of immunity and longevity of life were the main reasons for which CP was consumed since ancient times. CP has about 50 herbs, spices and minerals along with a range of pharmacological activities on almost all organ systems of the human body.&#x0D; COVID-19 actually means coronavirus disease 2019. COVID-19 targets and affects multiple organs like lungs, heart, kidney etc, thus increasing the mortality and morbidity rates. The medication cost and side effects have made the allopathic system of medicine the least sought after. The rapid spread rate of the infection has urged mankind to look at alternative remedies to fight the novel coronavirus.&#x0D; AYUSH is a government organisation under the Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga &amp; Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy which aims to promote indigenous alternative medicine systems in India. AYUSH recommends various measures to fight the novel coronavirus infection.&#x0D; Chyavanprash is one such important formulation proposed by the AYUSH for COVID-19. The purpose of our review is to highlight the constituents and pharmacological activities of CP in the prophylaxis, manage and treatment of COVID-19 by collecting and compiling the published research on COVID-19. The review also focuses on understanding the mechanism behind the multimodal activity of CP. References relevant to our topic were screened based on relevance to our topic.

REVIEW ON QUALITY CONTROL PARAMETERS FOR STANDARDISATION OF HERBAL DRUG

The rise in the use of herbal product has also given rise to various forms of abuse and adulteration of the products leading to consumers’ and manufacturers’ disappointment and in some instances fatal consequences. The word “standardized” on a product label is no guarantee of higher product quality, since there is no legal definition of the word “standardized.” Consumers are often left on their own to decide what is safe and effective for them and the lack of consistent labelling on herbal products can be a source of consumer frustration. Certain information such as “the product has been manufactured according to Pharmacopoeia standards,” listing of active ingredients and amounts, directions such as serving quantity (dosage) and frequency of intake of the drug, must be in the label. Herbal drug technology is used for converting botanical materials into medicines, where standardization and quality control with proper integration of modern scientific techniques and traditional knowledge is important. The quality control standards of various medicinal plants used in indigenous system of medicine are becoming more relevant today in view of commercialization of formulations based on medicinal plants. This review seeks to enlighten techniques involved in standardization of crude/finished compound drugs so far, e.g. macroscopic methods, microscopic methods, physical methods, chemical methods, biological methods. Standardization of herbal drugs means confirmation of its identity, quality and purity.

A Case of Acute Lead Toxicity Associated with Siddha Medication

Siddha is an indigenous system of medicine practiced exclusively in South India.Some of these formulations have been postulated to cause heavy metal poisoning,like lead toxicity. Here we present a case of Siddha medicine induced lead toxicity causing intractable chronic abdominal pain.

Childhood poisoning causes and prevention; eight years of our rural hospital experience from South India

Poisoning is a significant public health problem, globally as well as in India.1 Poisoning among adults are mostly suicidal whereas among children are accidental in nature.2 In India, childhood poisoning is usually under reported as there is no proper surveillance system is available India and only hospital based data are available.2,3We report our experience from a remote rural hospital from South India after getting institute ethical committee clearance for dissemination of data (Ref no. RC 18/55). We extracted the data of under-five children poisoning cases from poisoning register maintained in the hospital for the period of past eight years from 1st January 2012 to 31st December 2019. Total of 21 childhood poisoning were reported among them 12 (57%) were male and 9 (43%) were female. Most common poisoning was due to kerosene (8(38%)) followed by laundry bleaching detergent locally known as ‘Ala’ 5 (23%), pesticide poison 2 (10%), eucalyptus oil poisoning 2 (10%) and others like ant killer poisoning tablets overdose were 4 (19%).In children, poisoning are accidental nature and the amount consumed may also be less as the child has tendency for aversion due to smell and taste whereas in suicidal (deliberate poisoning) the dose will be higher to cause permanent damage and death.2 But unlike other poisoning a peculiar finding on reported eucalyptus oil poisoning was, in both cases eucalyptus oil was given to the children to consume as a medicine to cure respiratory tract infection and both of them presented with seizure and unconsciousness. Eucalyptus oil is advice as a topical medicine in the indigenous system of medicine but not as a parenteral medicine.4 In a place like India where there are prevailing false cultural beliefs, there is a need to educate and guide the people on misuse of medicines without proper advice, especially among children. A higher dose of eucalyptus oil poisoning may even result in death.5,6 Another important observation was bleaching detergent poisoning which is not properly reported other major studies from India, but this poisoning is the second most commonest among under-five children.2,3 This poison is an oxidizer and a corrosive in nature and on accidental ingestion may result in minor to transient adverse event with no sequelae in majority of cases.7

Type of patients seeking Homeopathic treatment under different physico-cultural background in and around Kolkata - India.

Background: The concept of health and Health Care began in India in the middle of 18th Century. National Health Policy 2002 initiated the program – “health for all”. Earlier it was a concept of individual care. New philosophy of Heath Care Service is inter-sector, i.e., indigenous system can be found in public as well as private sector and so on. The sectors of heath care services in India are categorized as: 1.Public sector 2. Private sector 3. Indigenous systems of medicine which include a. Ayurveda and Siddha b. Unani and Tibbiya c. Homeopathy d. unregistered practitioners 4. Voluntary Heath Agencies 5. National Health Programmes. It needs to clarify who is a patient, according to World Health Organization (1948) defined health as a “state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” So a person is called healthy if he / she is physically fit, mentally sound and socially well adjusted. To explain further disease is the interruption or break in the state of equilibrium of all the components. Moreover, disease is lack of health, a disorder or illness caused by infection or deficiency with some characteristics or symptoms. The homeopathic doctors look into patient’s symptoms and take the medical history.&#x0D; Objective: The objectives of the study are to find out (i) Disease specificity in homeopathic treatment (ii) Variation of diseases with seasons (iii)Variation of diseases with economic condition (iv) Variation in different socio-economic groups seeking homeopathic treatment (v) Reasons of failure of homeopathic treatment.&#x0D; Methodology: Fifty (50) clinics of Kolkata and its suburbs and two (2) years data have been taken into consideration. Statistical methods like ANOVA are applied to find out the diseases related to homeopathy. Patients were classified according to their acute and chronic diseases. Acute diseases include seasonal ones like influenza, cough and cold, dengue, malaria, pox, common fever, diarrhea. Chronic diseases include arthritis, hepatic disorder, eczema, cardiac disorders, migraine, asthma, autism, epilepsy, tumors, skin diseases, pimples. Number of each chronic and acute cases in each clinic was recorded. All the numbers in 50 clinics were pooled together for each case. Socio – economic conditions of the patients were also recorded.&#x0D; Result: Acute diseases like influenza, diarrhea, common cold, fever dominate over other diseases. Among the chronic diseases rheumatoid arthritis, migraine and asthma are more common than other diseases. Common cold and asthma predominate during autumn while diarrhea is common in monsoon. &#x0D; Discussion: Present paper tries to find out how unhealthy condition or disease is guided by two factors. 1. The climatic condition or the seasonal swing and 2. Economic condition of the patients surveyed. To specify, the paper seeks the variation of disease with seasonal swing and economic status of those who come to the homeopaths. The number of patients also varies with seasons. The number rises during monsoons (July to September) and falls in cold months (December and January). The upper socio-economic group seeks medical help for diseases like coronary heart disease, diabetes, obesity etc., where as lower income goes for diseases like bronchitis, gastroenteritis, diarrhea, etc. The paper also tries to find out the causes failure of homeopathic treatment in the study area, they are (i) limited number of skilled doctors available in suburbs of Kolkata. In urban areas skilled doctors cannot cope with the growing number of patients. (ii) The improper selection of medicines among the trained doctors, moreover, application of proper potencies often fails. (iii) The poor quality of medicines is a major factor of failure. In homeopathy quality control is difficult. In-process quality control is only possible by engaging a large number of inspectors by the Drug Regulator. At present the number is insufficient. (iv) As the patients have little knowledge or ignorant about the homeopathic medicines, they compare homeopathic medicines with other systems of medicine. Only 3% natural substance present in the medicine which cannot be possible to detect by the patient. As the patients cannot smell the medicine and all medicines appear similar for which they often doubt about it’s effects. &#x0D; Conclusion: The causes for seeking homeopathic treatment are different in different socio-economic groups. The lower socio economic groups are attracted due to the low cost of treatment. The higher socio economic groups are interested because of long lasting effects and permanent cure, no side effect, diagnostic problems due to complexity of diseases and to avoid surgery.

Saussurea lappa: An Important Medicinal Plant for Treatment Different Diseases: A review

Saussurea lappa is belong to the family Astreaceae. It has been cultivated in various parts of the world a commonly known and potent plant which is well studied for its medicinal uses in diverse indigenous Indian systems of medicine. It is usually known as kuth root or costus and used in different system of medicine to treat various diseases such as asthma, ulcers and stomach problems. Indian medical systems use various preparations prepared from the roots by physicians to treat cough, cold, stomachache, toothache, typhoid and fever. It is an important drug for gout and erythroderma and stimulates spermatogenesis. Several of its activities are proved and confirmed through in viro and in vivo approaches which gave a rational scientific way to the traditional claims. As a result to the significant proven activities Saussrea lappa is having major chance for new drug discovery.