Acting against scurvy
Habitat: Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.
English: Storax, Oriental Sweet Gum.Ayurvedic: Shilaarasa, Turushka, Silhaka (substitute for Liquidamber orientalis, Hamamelidaceae).Siddha/Tamil: Neriyurishippal.Action: Resin—carminative, stomachic, antiscorbutic expectorant, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, antistress, hepatoprotective. Externally used in scabies and leucoderma.
The ethyl acetate extract of the root of A. excelsa was studied for antistress effect in a variety of biological models of stress; also in stress-induced ulcers and CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity. Antistress was the most significant pharmacological property of the Storax.... altingia excelsaHabitat: Native to China; cultivated in Himalayan regions; grows in tropical and semi-tropical regions and temperate climates.
English: Peach tree.Ayurvedic: Aaruka.Unani: Aaaduu, Khokh.Action: Leaves and bark—expectorant (used in cough, whooping cough, and chronic bronchitis), sedative, stomachic, demulcent, antiscorbutic, diuretic. Fresh leaves—anthelmintic. Powder of leaves—styptic (externally). Fruit— stomachic, antiscorbutic.... amygdalus persica
Habitat: Native to tropical America, from Mexico to Peru and Brazil. Cultivated largely in Malabar, Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, and to some extent in Maharashtra, Goa, Orissa and West Bengal.
English: Cashew Nut.Unani: Kaaju.Siddha/Tamil: Mindiri.Action: Leaves and bark—fungi- cidal, vermicidal, protozoicidal, antimicrobial (used for toothache, sore gums). Karnel—eaten for its high protein content. Cashew apple—antiscorbutic. Resinous juice contained in the seeds—used in cases of mental derangement, memory disturbances, palpitation of heart, rheumatic pericarditis, sexual debility.
The nut contains 45% fat and 20% protein. Leaves contain flavonoids, mainly glycosides of quercetin and kaempferol, and hydroxybenzoic acid. The bark contains a balsam-containing anacardic acid, anacardol, cardol and ginkgol. The caustic liquid in the shell contains about 39% anacardic acid, a mixture of alkyl salicylic acid derivatives. The leaves are febrifuge. Anacardic acid is bactericidal, fungici- dal, vermicidal and protozoicidal. The leaves and bark exhibited hypotensive activity in rats.The phenolics of the cashew-nut shell oil have inhibited the enzymic activity of alpha-glucosidase, invertase and aldose reductase (anacardic acids being the most potent). Cardols have also shown antifilarial activity in vitro. Anacardic acids, cardols and methyl cardols have been found to exhibit moderate cytotoxic activity.... anacardium occidentaleHabitat: Subalpine and temperate Himalayas, at altitudes of 1,8003,750 m.
English: Bitter Cress, Hedge Mustard, Yellow Rocket, Winter Cress.Folk: Cress.Action: Diuretic, anthelmintic, stomachic, antiscorbutic, (leaves are rich in vitamin C 130 mg/100 g). Pulverised herb is used as an agent for stimulating spermatogenesis.
The roots contain sinigrin; seeds contain a glucoside, glucobarbarin, and myrosin.The protein and phosphorus contents of the plant decrease with the maturity, whereas the calcium contents increase (tender stems are eaten as a salad). The leaves and buds are a rich source of provitamin A (beta- carotene).... barbarea vulgarisNutritional Profile Energy value (calories per serving): Low Protein: Low Fat: Low Saturated fat: Low Cholesterol: None Carbohydrates: High Fiber: Moderate Sodium: Low Major vitamin contribution: Vitamin A, vitamin C Major mineral contribution: Potassium
About the Nutrients in This Food Grapefruit and ugli fruit (a cross between the grapefruit and the tangerine) have moderate amounts of dietary fiber and, like all citrus fruits, are most prized for their vitamin C. Pink or red grapefruits have moderate amounts of vitamin A. One-half medium (four-inch diameter) pink grapefruit has 1.4 g dietary fiber, 1,187 IU vitamin A (51 percent of the R DA for a woman, 40 percent of the R DA for a man), and 44 mg vitamin C (59 percent of the R DA for a woman, 49 percent of the R DA for a man). One half medium (3.75-inch diameter) white grapefruit has 1.3 g dietary fiber, 39 IU vitamin A (2 percent of the R DA for a woman, 1 percent of the R DA for a man), and 39 mg vitamin C (52 percent of the R DA for a woman, 43 percent of the R DA for a man). Pink and red grapefruits also contain lycopene, a red carotenoid (plant pigment), a strong antioxidant that appears to lower the risk of cancer of the prostate. The richest source of lycopene is cooked tom atoes.
The Most Nutritious Way to Serve This Food Fresh fruit or fresh-squeezed juice.
Buying This Food Look for: Firm fruit that is heavy for its size, which means that it will be juicy. The skin should be thin, smooth, and fine-grained. Most grapefruit have yellow skin that, depending on the variety, may be tinged with red or green. In fact, a slight greenish tint may mean that the grapefruit is high in sugar. Ugli fruit, which looks like misshapen, splotched grapefruit, is yellow with green patches and bumpy skin. Avoid: Grapefruit or ugli fruit with puff y skin or those that feel light for their size; the flesh inside is probably dry and juiceless.
Storing This Food Store grapefruit either at room temperature (for a few days) or in the refrigerator. Refrigerate grapefruit juice in a tightly closed glass bottle with very little air space at the top. As you use up the juice, transfer it to a smaller bottle, again with very little air space at the top. The aim is to prevent the juice from coming into contact with oxygen, which destroys vitamin C. (Most plastic juice bottles are oxygen-permeable.) Properly stored and protected from oxygen, fresh grapefruit juice can hold its vitamin C for several weeks.
Preparing This Food Grapefruit are most flavorful at room temperature, which liberates the aromatic molecules that give them their characteristic scent and taste. Before cutting into the grapefruit, rinse it under cool running water to flush debris off the peel. To section grapefruit, cut a slice from the top, then cut off the peel in strips—starting at the top and going down—or peel it in a spiral fashion. You can remove the bitter white membrane, but some of the vitamin C will go with it. Finally, slice the sections apart. Or you can simply cut the grapefruit in half and scoop out the sections with a curved, serrated grapefruit knife.
What Happens When You Cook This Food Broiling a half grapefruit or poaching grapefruit sections reduces the fruit’s supply of vitamin C, which is heat-sensitive.
How Other Kinds of Processing Affect This Food Commercially prepared juices. How well a commercially prepared juice retains its vitamin C depends on how it is prepared, stored, and packaged. Commercial flash-freezing preserves as much as 95 percent of the vitamin C in fresh grapefruit juices. Canned juice stored in the refrigerator may lose only 2 percent of its vitamin C in three months. Prepared, pasteurized “fresh” juices lose vitamin C because they are sold in plastic bottles or waxed-paper cartons that let oxygen in. Commercially prepared juices are pasteurized to stop the natural enzyme action that would otherwise turn sugars to alcohols. Pasteurization also protects juices from potentially harmful bacterial and mold contamination. Following several deaths attributed to unpas- teurized apple juices containing E. coli O157:H7, the FDA ruled that all fruit and vegetable juices must carry a warning label telling you whether the juice has been pasteurized. Around the year 2000, all juices must be processed to remove or inactivate harmful bacteria.
Medical Uses and/or Benefits Antiscorbutic. All citrus fruits are superb sources of vitamin C, the vitamin that prevents or cures scurvy, the vitamin C-deficiency disease. Increased absorption of supplemental or dietary iron. If you eat foods rich in vitamin C along with iron supplements or foods rich in iron, the vitamin C will enhance your body’s ability to absorb the iron. Wound healing. Your body needs vitamin C in order to convert the amino acid proline into hydroxyproline, an essential ingredient in collagen, the protein needed to form skin, ten- dons, and bones. As a result people with scurvy do not heal quickly, a condition that can be remedied with vitamin C, which cures the scurvy and speeds healing. Whether taking extra vitamin C speeds healing in healthy people remains to be proved. Possible inhibition of virus that causes chronic hepatitis C infection. In Januar y 2008, research- ers at Massachusetts General Hospital Center for Engineering in Medicine (Boston) published a report in the medical journal Hepatology detailing the effect of naringenin, a compound in grapefruit, on the behavior of hepatitis viruses in liver cells. In laborator y studies, naringenin appeared to inhibit the ability of the virus to multiply and/or pass out from the liver cells. To date, there are no studies detailing the effect of naringenin in human beings with hepatitis C.
Adverse Effects Associated with This Food Contact dermatitis. The essential oils in the peel of citrus fruits may cause skin irritation in sensitive people.
Food/Drug Interactions Aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen and others. Taking aspirin or NSAIDs with acidic foods such as grapefruit may intensif y the drug’s ability to irritate your stomach and cause gastric bleeding. Antihistamines, anticoagulants, benzodiazepines (tranquilizers or sleep medications), calcium channel blockers (blood pressure medication), cyclosporine (immunosuppressant drug used in organ transplants), theophylline (asthma drug). Drinking grapefruit juice with a wide variety of drugs ranging from antihistamines to blood pressure medication appears to reduce the amount of the drug your body metabolizes and eliminates. The “grapefruit effect” was first identified among people taking the antihypertensive drugs felodipine (Plendil) and nifedip- ine (Adalat, Procardia). It is not yet known for certain exactly what the active substance in the juice is. One possibility, however, is bergamottin, a naturally occurring chemical in grapefruit juice known to inactivate cytochrome P450 3A4, a digestive enzyme needed to convert many drugs to water-soluble substances you can flush out of your body. Without an effective supply of cytochrome P450 3A4, the amount of a drug circulating in your body may rise to dangerous levels. Reported side effects include lower blood pressure, increased heart rate, headache, flushing, and lightheadedness. Some Drugs Known to Interact with Grapefruit Juice* Drug Class Generic (Brand name) Antianxiety drug Diazepam ( Valium) Antiarrhythmics Amiodarone (Cordarone) Blood-pressure drugs Felodipine (Plendil), nicardipine (Cardene), nimodipine (Nimotop), nisoldipine (Sular), verapamil ( Verelan) Cholesterol-lowering drugs Atorvastatin (Lipitor), lovastatin (Mevacor), simvastatin (Zocor), simvastatin/ezetimibe ( Vytorin) Immune Suppressants Cyclosporine (Neoral), tacrolimus (Prograf ) Impotence Drug Sildenafil ( Viagra) Pain Medication Methadone (Dolophine, Methadose) * This list may grow as new research appears.... grapefruit
Habitat: Throughout India, in tanks and back waters.
Folk: Barachuli, Chinnambal (Kerala).Action: Plant—bitter, febrifuge, antiscorbutic. Used as a substitute for Swertia Chirata in fever and jaundice.... limnanthemum indicum
Habitat: The Himalayas from Kashmir to Sikkim, in the alpine region at altitudes of3,000-6,000 m.
Folk: Chohahak, Amlu (Punjab). Kailaashi (Kashmir).Action: Refrigerant, antiscorbutic.... oxyria digyna
Habitat: Northwestern Himalayas, Nilgiris, Kulu and Kumaon.
English: Indian Barberry.Ayurvedic: Daaruharidraa, Daaru, Daarvi, Daarunishaa, Daarura- jani, Vrahitaphala, Valliphala, Sthirphala. Pushpaphala, Somakaa, Parjanyaa, Parjani, Kantkateri, Taarthya, Pachampachaa. Kaaliyaka is now equated with Pita Chandana (Coscinium fenestratum (Gaertn.) Colebr., Menispermaceae). Extract—Rasaanjana.Unani: Daarhald. Rasaut (extract). Zarishk (fruit).Siddha/Tamil: Marmanjal.Action: Rasaut, Rasasranjana (extract)—bitter, cholagogue, antidiarrhoeal, stomachic, laxative, diaphoretic, antipyretic, antiseptic. Used externally in opthalmia,conjunctivitis, ulcers, sores, swollen gums. Root bark— anti-inflammatory, hypoglycaemic hypotensive, antiamoebic, anticoagulant, antibacterial. Bark— used in liver complaints, diarrhoea, dysentery, cholera, gastric disorders, enlargement of spleen and for regulating metabolism. Berries— antiscorbutic, laxative.
Berberine hydrochloride and sulphate help in the diagnosis of latent malaria by releasing the parasites into the blood stream.Alkaloid berberine possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities. It is used as an intestinal antiseptic and bitter stomachic. It also exhibits antineoplastic properties. (Its synthetic derivative dihydroberberine is used in brain tumour.)Berberine has been found to inhibit the activity of enzymes trypsin (32%) and chymotrypsin (60%) in in-vitro studies.B. asiatica Roxb.ex Dc. is found in the Himalaya at 900-3,000 m, Assam and Bihar.See B. vulgaris.Dosage: Extract—1-3 g (CCRAS.); dried stem—5-10 ml decoction. (API Vol. II.)... berberis aristataHabitat: Temperate Himalaya from Kashmir to Bhutan, between altitudes of 900 and 3,000 m.
Ayurvedic: Paashaanabheda, Ashmaribhedikaa, Ashmaribhit, Ashmghna, Shilaabhit, Shilaabheda. (These synonyms are also equated with Aerva lanata Juss.)Siddha/Tamil: Padanbethi.Action: Leaf and root—antiscorbutic, astringent, spasmolytic, antidiarrhoeal. Used in dysuria, spleen enlargement, pulmonary affections as a cough remedy, menorrhagia, urinary tract infections. Alcoholic extract of roots— antilithic. Acetone extract of root- bark—cardiotoxic, CNS depressant and anti-inflammatory; in mild doses diuretic but antidiuretic in higher doses. Anti-inflammatory activity decreases with increasing dosage.
Due to its depressant action on the central nervous system, the drug is used against vertigo, dizziness and headache in moderate or low dosage.Key application: In lithiasis, dysuria, polyuria. (The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India; Indian Herbal Pharmacopoeia.)The rhizome contains an active principle bergenin (0.6%), gallic acid, glucose (5.6%), tannins (14.2-016.3%), mucilage and wax; a C-glycoside and beta-sitosterol.Bergenin prevented stress-induced erosions in rats and lowered gastric outputs.(Paashaanabheda indicates that the plant grows between rocks appearing to break them; it does not necessarily mean that it possesses lithotriptic property.)Dosage: Rhizome—20-30 g for decoction. (API Vol. I)... bergenia ligulataAction: Taraamiraa (Jirjeer)— used in Unani medicine as a spermatic tonic (powder of seeds is administered with a half-fried egg), also as a blood purifier, diuretic, emmenagogue and deobstruent. Leaf juice—used as a lotion for blotches, spots and blemishes.
Nasturtium officinale (Brassicaceae): Antiscorbutic and stimulant. A rich source of vitamins A and E, also of ascorbic acid. Seeds contain glucon- casturtin. Used for metabolic disorders, anaemia, strangury, kidney and bladder disorders and catarrh of the respiratory tract.Eruca sativa Mill.: Cultivated in North India; known as Taraamiraa, Siddhaartha, Bhutaghna. Seeds are used like mustard. Seeds—antibacterial. Crude juice of the plant inhibited E. coli, S. typhi and B. subtlis. Seeds contain (4-Me-thio)-Bu-glucosinolate (glucoerucin) as K and tetra-Me-N salts. A composition is used in induration of liver.... brucea sativaHabitat: A common weed, occurring throughout India.
English: Wild Cock's Comb.Ayurvedic: Shitivaaraka, Vitunna.Siddha/Tamil: Pannaikeerai.Folk: Shveta-murga, Sarvari, Sarvali, Surali.Action: Flowers—used in menor- rhagia, blood-dysentery. Seeds— antidiarrhoeal, also used in stomatitis. Whole plant—antibacterial, antiscorbutic and cooling.
Tender leaves are rich in potassium and in B1 and B6. An alcoholic extract of the leaves and its flavonoids showed antibacterial activity, which was comparable to ampicillin and streptomycin.The seeds contain 11.6-17% of protein and 6.4-10.9% of a fatty oil. The seeds and roots yield triterpenoid sapo- nins. An alcoholic extract of the seeds possess significant diuretic activity.... celosia argenteaHabitat: A common herb. Its leaves and tender twigs are used as vegetable and fodder.
English: Fat Hen, Lamb's Quarter, White Goosefoot, Wild Spinach, Pigweed.Ayurvedic: Vaastuuka.Unani: Bathuaa, Baathu.Siddha/Tamil: Paruppukeerai.Folk: Bathuaa, Chilli, Chilli-shaakAction: Laxative, anthelmintic against round-and hookworms, blood-purifier, antiscorbutic. An infusion is used for hepatic disorders, spleen enlargement, biliousness, intestinal ulcers. Used for treating burns.
The leaves yield ascaridole, used for treating round-and hookworms. The oil also contain traces of ascaridole. Plant contains 8% saponins. Cryp- tomeridiol, isolated from the seeds, showed significant growth promoting activity.... chenopodium albumHabitat: Wild in the warm valleys of the outer Himalayas. Cultivated in the plains.
English: Acid or Sour Lime, Country Lime.Ayurvedic: Nimbuka.Unani: Limu Kaghzi.Siddha/Tamil: Elummichhai, Thurinjippazham.Folk: Kaagazi Nimbu.Action: Antiscorbutic, stomachic, appetizer, refrigerant. Used in bilious vomiting. Leaves—an infusion is given for fever in jaundice, for sore throat, thrush. Root—an infusion is given for colic and dysentery, also as febrifuge.
Limes are rich in vitamins, minerals and alkaline salts, but not in fruit sugars. Lime peel contains ergosterol. An enzyme, 1,3-beta-glucan hydrolase has been reported from the bark and leaf extract. See C. limon.... citrus aurantifoliaHabitat: Cultivated all over India.
English: Lemon.Ayurvedic: Jambira, Jambh, Jambhir, Jaamphal, Nimbu, Nimbuka, Naaranga, Limpaka, Dantashatha, Airaavata, Neebu (bigger var.).Unani: Utraj.Siddha/Tamil: Periya elumuchhai.Action: Fruit—antiscorbutic, carminative, stomachic, antihistaminic, antibacterial. Used during coughs, colds, influenza and onset of fever (juice of roasted lemon), hiccoughs, biliousness. Fruit juice—used externally for ringworm (mixed with salt), erysipelas, also in the treatment of leprosy and white spots. Leaves and stems—antibacterial.
All parts of the plants of citrus sp. contain coumarins and psoralins. The fruits contain flavonoids and li- monoids. The flavonoids comprise three main groups—flavanones, fla- vones and 3-hydroxyflavylium (antho- cyanins); flavanones being predominantly followed by flavones and antho- cyanins. Bitter flavonoids do not occur in lemon and lime.Lemon juice is a richer source of antiscorbutic vitamin (contains 4050 mg/100 g of vitamin C) than lime, and a fair source of carotene and vitamin B1. Volatile oil (about 2.5% of the peel) consists of about 75% limonene, alpha-and beta-pinenes, alpha-ter- pinene and citral. The fruit juice also contains coumarins and bioflavonoids.The acid content of the fruit, once digested, provides an alkaline effect within the body and is found useful in conditions where acidity is a contributory factor (as in case of rheumatic conditions). The bioflavonoids strengthen the inner lining of blood vessels, especially veins and capillaries, and help counter varicose veins, arteriosclerosis, circulatory disorders and infections of liver, stomach and intestines.Major flavonoid glycosides, isolated from citrus peels and juices, include hesperidin (with properties of vitamin P). Rutin and other flavanones, isolated from citrus fruits, form the principal components of vitamin P. Flavanone glycosides contained in lemon and lime juices are eriocitrin 47 and 94; hesperidin 84 and 196 mg/l, respectively.The composition of cold pressed lime oil is quite similar to lemon oil, but citral content of lime oil is higher.Monoterpene alcohols and their esters, aldehydes—geraniol, geranial and neral, contribute to the characteristic aroma of lemon and lime.Dosage: Fruit—6-12 g (Juice—5- 10 ml). (API Vol. IV.)... citrus limonHabitat: Khasi Hills, submountain- ous Himalayan ranges in Garhwal, Kumaon in U.P., Maland areas of South, Pachmarhi (Madhya Pradesh), Sikkim and Western Ghats.
English: Citron.Ayurvedic: Maatulunga, Lunga, Maatulaka, Mahaalunga, Bijpuura, Bijaahva.Unani: Turanj.Siddha/Tamil: Kadaranrathai, Naarthankai, Thurinjippazham.Folk: Bijoraa.Action: Fruit—antiscorbutic, refrigerant, astringent, carminative, stomachic, antibacterial. Used for dyspepsia, bilious vomiting, cold, fever, hiccough. Root— anthelmintic. Flowers and buds— astringent.
The peel contains coumarins, limet- tin, scoparone, scopoletin and um- belliferon; besides nobiletin, limonin,Family: Rutaceae.Habitat: Native to the West Indies. Commercialized in the USA. Cultivated mainly in Punjab.
English: Grapefruit, 'Marsh' Grapefruit.Folk: Chakotraa. Chima Bombili- maas (Tamil Nadu).Action: Young leaves—decoction is used to relieve cold or headache. Fruit—used for developing resistance against colds and influenza.
Grapefruit is rich in vitamins, minerals, potassium and pectin, which balance the acid reaction in the stomach and stimulate appetite. Half grapefruit contains vitamin A 318 IU, vitamin C 46.8 mg, niacin 0.2 mg, potassium 158 mg. The fruit contains beta- carotene and cartenoid lycopene. Ly- copene is especially noted for reducing the risk of prostate cancer. The fruit juice contains furanocoumarins, including bergamottin, also naringin, naringenin, limonin, quercetin, kaem- pferol and obacunone.For drug interactions with grapefruit juice, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2007.Grapefruit is not to be confused with grape (Vitis vinifera).... citrus paradisiHabitat: Temperate Himalaya from Kashmir to Kumaon at 2,200-4,100, also in eastern Himalaya.
English: Flix Weed, Flax Weed.Action: Leaf and flower—astringent, antiscorbutic. Seed—expectorant, anti-inflammatory, febrifuge, antidysenteric. Aerial parts— antiviral, hypoglycaemic.
The plants has been used externally for ulcers, seeds are used as substitute or adulterant of the seeds of Sisymbrium iro Linn. (The source of Khaakasi, Khubb, Tukhm-e-Shahuh, Khuubkalaan of Unani medicine, known as Hedge Mustard or London Rocket.)... descurainia sophiaHabitat: Cultivated in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Delhi and Madhya Pradesh.
English: Rocket-Salad.Ayurvedic: Tuvari, Tuvarikaa, Shveta-sursaa, Bhuutaghna, Darad- harsha, Siddaartha.Unani: Jirjeer, Taraamiraa.Folk: Safed Sarson.Action: Tender leaf—stimulant, stomachic, diuretic, antiscorbutic, rubefacient. Seed—vesicant, antibacterial.
Seeds and fresh plant gave glu- coerucin (4-methylthiobutyl glucosi- nolate); leaves yielded iso-rhamnetin- 3-glucoside and iso-rhamnetin. The volatile oil of the seeds contains isoth- iocyanate derivatives. The oil at 0.004 and 0.008 ml/kg exhibits diuretic activity. The ethanolic extract of the seeds is diuretic at 20 and 40 mg/kg Seeds are used to induce vomiting in place of ipecac.Crude juice of the plant inhibited E. coli, S. typhi and B. subttis.For eating purposes, the plant should be gathered before flowering; for medicinal use when in flower.... eruca sativaHabitat: Native to Brazil; naturalized in many parts of India; grown in gardens of Maharashtra.
English: Ayapana Tea.Ayurvedic: Vishalyakarani, Ayaapaana.Siddha/Tamil: Ayapanai.Folk: Ayapani (Maharashtra).Action: Cardiac stimulant, laxative, emetic, expectorant, bechic, antiscorbutic, alterative. Used in ague, also in dyspepsia. Leaf— anticholerin, haemostatic.
The leaves contain ayapanin and ayapin, with pronounced haemostatic properties. The leaves also contain carotene and free vitamin C (25 mg/ 100 g); there is 100% increase in vitamin C content on frying the leaves in oil.A aqueous extract of dried leaves and shoots exhibits cardiac stimulant activity, increasing the force of the heartbeat but diminishing its frequency.The plant is comparable to chamo- mile (Anthemis sp.).... eupatorium triplinerveHabitat: Indigenous to South India; cultivated throughout the plains of India up to 500 m in the western Himalaya.
English: Wood Apple.Ayurvedic: Kapittha, Dadhittha, Dadhiphala, Surabhichhada, Dantshatha, Kapipriya.Unani: Kuvet.Siddha/Tamil: Vilamaram, Vilangai, Narivila.Folk: Kaith.Action: Fruit—antiscorbutic, carminative, stimulates the digestive system bark. Pulp is included in a paste to tone the breast. Leaves— astringent; used for indigestion, flatulence, diarrhoea, dysentery and haemorrhoids.
Unripe fruit—prescribed in sprue, malabsorption syndrome. (The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India.)The leaves and stem bark contain the coumarins, luvangetin, xanthotoxin and limonin and the steroids, sitosterol and sitosterol-O-beta-D-glucoside.Antifungal compounds, psoralene from stem bark; xanthotoxin and os- thenol from root bark and 2,6-dimeth- oxybenzo-quinone from the fruit shell are reported. Roots contain xanthotoxin and bergapten, used for the treatment of leucoderma, characterized by vitiligo.Dosage: Dried pulp of mature fruit—1-3 g powder. (API Vol. II.)... feronia limoniaHabitat: The Temperate Himalayas.
English: Goosegrass, Clivers, Cleavers, Catch Weed.Action: Choleretic, stomachic, diuretic, refrigerant, lymphatic, alterative, antiscorbutic, detoxifier; non-steroidal anti-inflammatory used for enlarged lymph nodes, especially cervical neck nodes, cystic and nodular changes in the glands, modular goitre. Used as a cleansing drink for malignant conditions and skin disorders, including psoriasis.
Key application: As diuretic. (The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.)The plant contains iridoid monoter- penes (asperuloside), benzyl isoquino- line alkaloids (including protopine), beta-carbolin alkaloids (including harmine), quinazoline alkaloids and fla- vonoids (such as luteolin). Methanolic extract of the plant contains chloro- genic acid, scopoletin and rutin. The plant is reported to contain several sterols. The root contains anthraqui- nones.Asperuloside can be chemically converted to prostanoid intermediates.... galium aparineHabitat: Evergreen forests of Western Ghats from Konkan southwards and in Goa. Also cultivated in southern districts of Maharashtra and on lower slopes of Nilgiris.
English: Kokam Butter tree, Mangosteen Oil tree.Ayurvedic: Vrkshaamla, Tintidika, Chukra, Amlavrkshak, Kokam, Amsula.Siddha/Tamil: Murgal.Folk: Kokam.Action: Fruit—antiscorbutic, cholagogue, cooling, antibilious, emollient and demulcent. A syrup from the fruit juice is given in bilious affections. Bark—astringent, Oil or Kokam Butter—used for dysentery and diarrhoea with mucus. Applied externally to ulcerations, fissures of lips, chapped skin and skin diseases.
The fruit rind contain a polyiso- prenylated phenolic pigment, garci- nol and its isomer isogarcinol, along with (-)-hydroxycitric acid, cyanidin- 3-glucoside and cyanidin-3-sambubio- side. L-leucine and DNP-L-leucine hy- drochloride have been reported from the leaves.EtOH (50%) extract of aerial parts exhibited semen coagulant and CNS depressant activity.Kokum butter contains fatty acids— palmtic 2.0, stearic 57.5, oleic 39.0, linoleic 1.3 and others 0.2%.Dosage: Fruit—10-20 ml juice; root bark—40-80 ml decoction. (CCRAS.)... garcinia indicaHabitat: Forests of northeast Bengal, sporadic in NEFA, Manipur and upper Assam
Ayurvedic: Amlavetasa. Vetasaamla.Folk: Thaikala (Bengal).Action: Antiscorbutic, astringent, cooling, cardiotonic, emollient. Used in anorexia, dyspepsia, colic, liver and spleen diseases difficult micturition. Cough and other respiratory disorders, ulcers and skin diseases.
Dry fruits (pericarp) contain the benzophenones, pedunculol, garcinol and cambogin.The heartwood gave benzophenone and xanthone.Dosage: Fruit—5-10 ml juice. (CCRAS.)... garcinia pedunculataHabitat: Woods and shady places, near old walls and under hedges.
Features ? This ivy, as its common name and second synonym convey, creeps along the ground. The quadrangular, unbranched stem is six inches or so long. Two kidney- shaped leaves appear opposite each other at every joint. They are deeply crenate, the upper leaves purplish in colour and paler underneath. The roots issue at the corners of the jointed stalks, and the two-lipped, purplish flowers bloom three or four together in the axils of the upper leaves. The taste is bitter and acrid, the odour strong and aromatic.Part used ? The whole herb.Action: Astringent, tonic, diuretic.
It is applicable to kidney disorders and dyspepsia. It was formerly valued as an antiscorbutic, but with advances in food distribution, this property is now rarely considered. In conjunction with Yarrow or Chamomile flowers an excellent poultice may be made for application to abscesses and gatherings. The infusion of 1 ounce of the herb to 1 pint of boiling water is taken in wineglass doses.... ground ivyHabitat: Native to the West Indies; now cultivated in Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Bihar, Punjab, Assam and Tamil Nadu.
English: Roselle, Jamaican Sorrel, Natal Sorrel, Red Sorrel.Ayurvedic: Ambashtthaki.Siddha/Tamil: Sivappu Kashmakki, Pulichai-keerai, Gogu, Seemai Kaseru.Folk: Laal-ambaadi, Patavaa, Patsan.Action: Digestive, choleretic, antibilious, laxative, diuretic, hypotensive, antiscorbutic. Used as a cardiac and nervine tonic for disorders of circulation, also for calcified arteries.
Key application: Flowers—used for loss of appetite, for colds, catarrhs of the upper respiratory tract and stomach, for disorders of circulation. (Included among unapproved herbs by German Commission E.)The seeds contain sterols, including 3.2% ergosterol; leaves contain sitosterol-beta-D-galactoside. Flowers contain myricetin, kaempferol and quercetin, but did not contain free mutagenic flavonol aglycons.The aqueous extract of flower buds has been reported to decrease blood pressure, cause relaxation of rat uterus. Succulent sepals and leaves—hypoten- sive, antimicrobial and anthelmintic.Oil and unsapanofiable matter—antibacterial, antifungal.Dosage: Root—5-10 g. (API Vol. III.)... hibiscus sabdariffaHabitat: The Himalayas up to 1,200 m and in plains of India.
English: Trailing indigo.Ayurvedic: Vaasukaa.Siddha/Tamil: Cheppunerinjil.Folk: Hanumaan-buuti, Bhui-nila.Action: Juice of the plant— antiscorbutic, diuretic, alterative. The plant, boiled with oil, is applied to burns. A decoction is given in epilepsy and insanity.
The plant contains two unsaturat- ed hydrocarbons—indigoferin and en- neaphyllin. The seeds contain 37.8% protein, also yield lipids (4.4%) containing palmitic and oleic acid. The toxicity of the plant is attributed to a non-protein amino acid, indospicine (6-amidino-2-aminohexanoic acid). (Consumption of the plant produces a neurological syndrome, known as Birdsville disease, in horses. The toxic- ity is greatly reduced when the material is chopped and dried.)The aerial parts gave 3-nitropropa- noyl esters of D-glucose.... indigofera enneaphyllaHabitat: North-West Himalayas.
Folk: Gonyuch (Ladakh).Action: Plant—depurative, antilith- ic, diuretic, stomachic, antiscorbutic. An infusion is given for liver and kidney diseases. Also used as a resolvent in skin affections.
The leaves show dose-dependent increase of diuretic activity; also increase in potassium excretion in urine.The leaves contain cholesterol, stig- masterol and beta-sitosterol.... lepidium latifoliumHabitat: Native to West Asia; cultivated throughout India as a salad plant.
English: Garden Cress, Water Cress.Ayurvedic: Chandrashuura, Chan- drikaa, Vaas-pushpaa, Pashume- hankaarikaa, Nandini, Suvaasaraa, Aashaalim.Unani: Habb-ul-rashaad, Tukh-e- Taratezak, Haalim, Sipandaan.Siddha/Tamil: Alivirai.Action: Used in asthma, bronchial affections and bleeding piles. Seeds—lactagogue, diuretic, and emmenagogue. Used for treating skin disorders, fever, amoebic dysentery and asthma. Leaf— stimulant, antiscorbutic, diuretic. Roots—used in secondary syphilis and in tenesmus.
The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India recommends the use of dried seeds, in powder form, in gout.The seeds are a good source of iron, but its bioavailability is poor (5.4% of total iron). They are used for rapid healing ofbone fractures. The ethano- lic extract of seeds significantly increased collagen synthesis and its deposition at bone fracture portion in the treated rats. The tensile strength of the broken tibiae also increased.The seeds contain an alkaloid (0.19%), glucotropaeolin, sinapin (cho- line ester of sinapic acid), sinapic acid, mucilaginous matter (5%) and uric acid (0.108 g/kg). The seed oil exhibits pronounced oestrogenic activity.The seed mucilage allays the irritation of the mucous membrane of intestines in dysentery and diarrhoea. It consists of a mixture of cellulose (18.3%) and uronic acid-containing polysaccharides; acid hydrolysis yield L-arabinose, D-galactose, L-rhamnose, D-glacturonic acid and D-glucose.The plant contains pantothenic acid, pyridoxin and rutin. Ethanolic extract of the plant showed antiviral activity against rinderpest virus.Dosage: Seed—3-6 g powder. (API, Vol. I.)... lepidium sativumHabitat: Uttar Pradesh., Punjab, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu.
English: Mango.Ayurvedic: Aamra, Amb, Rasaal, Sa- hakaar, Pikavallabha, Madhudoot, Atisaurabha, Maakanda.Unani: Aam, Ambaj.Siddha/Tamil: Manga, Mau, Mamaram (bark), Mangottai Paruppu (seed).Action: Unripe fruit—astringent, antiscorbutic. Ripe fruit—invigorating and refrigerant in heat apoplexy. Leaves—anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, chloretic, diuretic. Used in diabetes, externally in burns and scalds. Kernel—astringent, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, anthelmintic, antispas- modic, antiscorbutic; given in diarrhoea, diabetes and menstrual disorders. Stem bark—astringent; used for haemorrhages, diarrhoea, rheumatism.
The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia ofIn- dia recommends the dried seed in diarrhoea and dysentery; and the dried stem bark in genitourinary disorders.Ripe mango contains sugars (9.518.6%), citric acid (0.12-0.34%), ascorbic acid (10.8-225.0 mg/100 g), carote- noids as beta-carotene (2,00017,000 mcg/100 g). The fruit gave phenolic compounds (m-digallic acid, gal- lotannin, phloroglucinol, protocate- chuic acid); flavonoids (1,2,3,4-tetrahy- droxy benzene, kaempferol and myri- cetin).The seed kernel contains alpha-and beta-amyrins, gallotannin, glucogallin and several sterols.The leaves contain a pentacyclic tri- terpene alcohol, indicol, besides tarax- one, taraxerol, friedelin, lupeol and beta-sitosterol. Leaves contain several sugars, free malic and citric acids and amino acids. Some esters of ben- zophenone C-glucosides and kinic and shikmic acids have also been reported. Mangiferin is present predominantly in the leaves and twigs.The bark contains phenolic compounds (gallocatechin, protocatechuic acid), xanthones (homomangiferin), several triterpenoids and sterols.All parts gave phenolic acids (el- lagic acid, gallic acid, ethyl gallate); flavonoids (catechin), and xanthones (mangiferin).Dosage: Dried seed—1-2 g powder (API, Vol. I); stem bark—3-6 g powder, 25-50 g for decoction. (API, Vol. III.)... mangifera indicaHabitat: Cultivated in Bengal, Orissa and Punjab.
English: Watercress.Folk: Piriyaa-Haalim (Punjab), Latputiyaa (Maharashtra).Action: Leaves—antiscorbutic, expectorant (used in catarrh of the respiratory organs), diuretic (used in kidney and bladder disorders), detoxifying. A lotion of leaves is applied to blotches, spots and blemishes. Fresh herb is used as a blood purifier.
Key application: For catarrh of respiratory tract. (German Commission E.)Watercress contains vitamin A 4720 IU, ascorbic acid 77 mg/100 g, also thiamine, riboflavin, niacin and biotin; mineral matter 2.2%—calcium 290, phosphorus 140, iron 4.6 mg/100 g, also sulphur, iodine, manganese, zinc, arsenic and copper; proteins 2.9%, amino acid composition includes leucine, phenylalanine, valine, lysine, tyrosine, alanine, threonine, glutamic acid, serine, aspartic acid, cystine, methionine sulphoxide and proline.The glucosinolate phenethyl isothio- cyanate, which is released upon chewing the leaf, is a chemopreventive agent against lung cancer. (cited in Expanded Commission E Monographs.)Watercress is contraindicated in gastric and duodenal ulcers and inflammatory kidney diseases. (Francis Brinker.)... nasturtium officinaleHabitat: Throughout the warmer parts of India.
English: Indian Sorrel.Ayurvedic: Chaangeri, Am- lapatrikaa, Amlikaa, Chukraa, Chukrikaa, Chhatraamlikaa.Unani: Ambutaa bhaaji, Amutaa saag.Siddha/Tamil: Puliyarai.Folk: Tinpatiyaa, Ambilonaa.Action: Plant—boiled with butter milk is a home remedy for indigestion and diarrhoea in children. Used for tympanitis, dyspepsia, biliousness and dysentery; also for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic and antiscorbutic activities. Leaf paste is applied over forehead to cure headache.
The leaves contain the flavonoids, vitexin, isovitexin and vitexin-2"-O- beta-D-glucopyranoside. The leaves contain 1.47% of lipid (dry weight), a rich source of essential fatty acids and alpha-and beta-tocopherol (1.58 and 6.18 mg/g dry basis, respectively.) They are a good source of vitamin C (125 mg/100 g), carotene (3.6 mg/100 g) and calcium (5.6% of dry material) but contain a high content of oxalates (12% of dry material).The leaves and stem contain tartar- ic and citric acid; stems contain also malic acid.An aqueous extract of the plant shows activity against Micrococcus pyogenes var. aureus. Expressed juice of the entire plant shows activity against Gram-positive bacteria.Oxalis martiana Zucc. (native to America, naturalized in moist and shady placaes in temperate parts of India) is equated with Wood-Sorrel. It is known as Khatmitthi in Delhi and Peria-puliyarai in Tamil Nadu.Dosage: Whole plant—5-10 ml juice. (API, Vol. III.)... oxalis corniculataHabitat: Native to eastern Mediterranean region; cultivated in Kashmir and North-western Himalayas at 1,200-2,400 m.
English: Oriental Plane, Oriental Sycamore. European Plane tree.Folk: Chinaar, Buin (Kashmir and Punjab).Action: Bark—antidiarrhoeal, antiscorbutic, antirheumatic. Leaf—astringent. Buds—antiseptic, used for urinary infection.
The buds yielded kaempferol, its derivatives and caffeic acid. The me- thanolic extract exhibits antiseptic and antimicrobial activities.The bark contains 1.5% of platanin, also 5.9% tannin and 7.3% non-tans. The shoots and leaves contain alan- toin; roots phlobaphene. The sap of the tree contains up to 90% mannitol. A triterpene, platanolic acid, is found in most parts of the plant except the fruit.... platanus orientalisHabitat: All over India, cultivated as a vegetable.
English: Common Purslane.Ayurvedic: Brihat Lonikaa, Lonaa, Loni, Ghoddhika, Ghotikaa, Upodika, Khursaa.Unani: Khurfaa, Kulfaa.Siddha/Tamil: Pulli-keerai, Parup- pukirai.Action: Refrigerant (reduces body heat), mild spasmodic, diuretic, antiscorbutic. Used in scurvy and in diseases of liver, spleen, kidney and bladder; also in dysuria, stomatitis and dysentery. A paste of leaves is applied to swellings, erysipelas, burns and scalds. Seeds—diuretic, antidysenteric; applied externally to burns and scalds.
A crude protein-free extract of the herb contained l-nor-adrenaline, do- pamine and l-dopa, also catechol. (The fresh plant contained 2.5 mg/g l-nor- adrenaline in one sample.) The extract gave a strong pressor response when injected intravenously into anaesthetized dogs.The oral administration of the ho- mogenates of P. oleracea reduced the blood sugar level of alloxan-diabetic rabbits to normal.The extract of the leaves and stems reduced muscle tone in individuals suffering from spasticity and exhibited skeletal muscle relaxant activity both in vitro and in vivo. The extract produced dose-dependent negative in- otropic and chronotropic effects and pressor response on rat blood pressure.The diuretic action of the herb is attributed to the presence of high percentage of potassium salts.Dosage: Plant-125-400 mg powder; juice—1-20 ml (CCRAS.)... portulaca oleraceaHabitat: Throughout India, in damp places, ascending up to 2,100 m in the Himalayas.
Unani: Khoobkalaan (also equated with Sisymbrium iro Linn., Hedge Mustard, London Rocket).Siddha/Tamil: Kattu-kadugu.Action: Plant—antiscorbutic, stimulant, diuretic (given in diarrhoea, dysentery and fever). Seeds—laxative, prescribed in the treatment of asthma.
Glucosinolates of 8-methylthio-oc- tyl, 8-methylsulphinyloctyl and 2-phe- nylethyl have been isolated from the seeds.R. islandica (Oeder) Borbas (Bihar, Bengal, Kerala) and R. montana Small (Punjab to Sikkim) are used for antiscorbutic, digestive and diuretic properties.... rorippa dufiaHabitat: Western Himalayas from Kashmir to Kumaon.
English: Garden Sorrel, Sorrel Dock.Ayurvedic: Chukram, Chuukaa.Unani: Hammaaz-Barri.Action: Laxative, diuretic, antiscorbutic, refrigerant. Used for scurvy, as a cooling drink in febrile disorders, as a corrective of scrofulous deposits. Seeds—astringent (in haemorrhages).
Flowers—hepatoprotective and an- tihaemorrhagic. Root—used for jaundice, also for gravel and stone in the kidneys.Aerial parts gave rutin, hyperin and vitexin and traces of oxymethy- lanthraquinone. The roots contain anthraquinones—chrysophanol, phys- cion and emodin anthrones.The leaves contain 124.0 mg/100 g ascorbic acid, about 0.3% oxalic acid. Free oxalic acid caused fatal hypogly- caemia in rabbits.... rumex acetosaHabitat: Eastern Himalayas, Sikkim and the Nilgiris.
English: Sheep Sorrel.Ayurvedic: Chukrikaa, Chuko.Unani: Hammaaz, Shaaka-turshak, Tursh, Jangali Paalak.Action: Diuretic, diaphoretic, antiscorbutic, refrigerant. Fresh plant is used in urinary and kidney diseases.
The herb contains anthraquinones, chrysophanol, emodin and physcion.Free ascorbic acid content (50-150 mg/100 g) remains constant throughout the year.... rumex acetosellaHabitat: Western Himalayas up to an altitude of 2,400 m.
English: French Sorrel.Action: Plant—refrigerant, astringent; given in dysentery. Juice of leaves—antiscorbutic.
The roots contain oxymethyl an-Action: Plant—astringent antiscorbutic, stomachic, diuretic, used for disorders of lymphatic and glandular system; for bronchitis, asthma; constipation, dyspepsia, diseases of liver and spleen; urinary and renal disorders; alcoholism. Seeds—antidysenteric.
Anthraquinone glucosides, emodin and chrysophanol, have been reported from leaves, root and seeds. The leaves contain large amounts of oxalate (21.8% on dry basis); vitamin C content is 12 mg and vitamin A 6,100 IU/100 g.The leaves of Rumex species are eaten in salad or cooked like spinach. They contain protein, carbohydrates, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, manganese, copper, zinc, (iodine, in some samples), ascorbic acid, beta-carotene and thiamine; also oxalic acid, potassium binoxalate and some tartaric acid.... rumex scutatusHabitat: Grows freely along the sea shore.
Features ? The smooth, shiny stem is angular and much branched, with ovate leaves which become sessile upwards; further roundish, kidney-shaped, stalked leaves grow from the roots. Clusters of white, cruciform flowers bloom in May. The taste is pungent and cress-like.Scurvygrass is a powerful antiscorbutic, but, as scurvy, like other "deficiency" diseases, is now prevented and cured by purely dietetic methods, the herb is but rarely used. It is, however, given a place here both for its historic interest and for the striking way in which it exemplifies the curative potency of non-poisonous herbs.The Medical Research Council, in its publication Vitamins ? A Survey ofPresent Knowledge, says:"Scurvygrass (Cochlearia officinalis) . . . figures largely in old records of scurvy cures among mariners. Thus Bachstron in 1734 tells the following story ? 'A sailor in the Greenland ships was so over-run and disabled with scurvy that his companions put him into a boat and sent him on shore, leaving him there to perish without the least expectation of recovery. The poor wretch had quite lost the use of his limbs ; he could only crawl about the ground. This he found covered with a plant which he, continually grazing like a beast of the field, plucked up with his teeth. In a short time he was by this means perfectly recovered, and upon his returning home it was found to be the herb scurvy grass.' (Rendering given by Lind [1757, p.395].)."When a well-authenticated case such as this is quoted by such a body as the Medical Research Council it should not be difficult to believe that other agents used in the herbal practice may be equally effective in illnesses not at present included in the official list of "deficiency diseases."... scurvygrassHabitat: Throughout India up to 2,000 m.
English: The Holy Herb, Siegesbeckia.Siddha/Tamil: Katampam, Kadambu.Folk: Pili-badkadi (Gujarat), Lat- latiaa (Bihar), Lichkuraa (Garhwal).Action: Plant—antiscorbutic, sial- agogue, cardiotonic, diaphoretic. Used for the treatment of rheumatism, renal colic and ague. Also used as a lotion for gangrenous ulcers and sores, syphilis, leprosy, ringworm.
The aerial parts contain sesquiter- pene lactone, orientin; melampolides including orientolide; diterpene, dru- tigenol and the corresponding gluco- side darutoside. The whole plant, in addition, gave 3,7-dimethylquercetin.The plant exhibited antiviral, CVS active, spasmolytic and hypoglycaemic activity.... siegesbeckia orientalisHabitat: Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana and from Rajasthan to Uttar Pradesh in moist soils.
English: London Rocket.Ayurvedic: Khaaksi.Unani: Khuubkalaan.Action: Seeds—expectorant, restorative, febrifuge, rubefacient, antibacterial. Used in asthma.
Leaves—rich in vitamin C (176 mg/ 100 g), beta-carotene (10,000 IU/100 g) and minerals. Used in throat and chest infections.Aerial parts yield beta-sitosterol, 3 beta-D-glucoside, isorhamnetin and quercetin.The seed contains a flavonoid, iso- rhamnetin. Fatty oil from seeds contain linolenic and oleic acids (as chief constituents), along with erucic, palmitic and stearic acids.Ethanolic extract of seeds exhibited marked antibacterial action, also antipyretic and analgesic effects.S. loeselii Linn. (Kashmir and Hi- machal Pradesh) is used in scrofula and as an antiscorbutic. The seed oil contains erucic acid and larger amounts of tetracosenoic acid. The plant contains alkaloids, organic acids, tannins, glycosides, saponins, coumarins and flavonoids.... sisymbrium irioHabitat: Native to Europe and Asia; distributed in temperate Himalayas from Kashmir to Kumaon.
English: European Mountain Ash, Rowan tree, Mountain Ash Berry.Folk: Battal (Punjab), Syaar (Garhwal).Action: Fruits—antiscorbutic, depurative, diuretic, astringent, aperient, emmenagogue. An infusion is given in haemorrhoids, strangury and irritation of bladder; for disorders of the uric acid metabolism, for dissolution of uric acid deposits; and for alkalization of the blood ("blood purification"). (Seeds contain cyanogenic acid; should be removed before the fruit is used.) Leaves—laxative; used as a pectoral in cough and bronchitis. Bark—astringent. Decoction is given in diarrhoea. (It is said to produce irritation of the alimentary mucous membrane.)
Included among unapproved herbs by German Commission E.The fruit gave ursolic acid, parasor- boside, quercetin, iso-quercetin, rutin and anthocyanins.Candied fruit may contain 3040 mg/100 g of vitamin C and concentrates up to 240 mg/100 g. Fresh fruit contains vitamin C 39-74 mg, carotene 6.2-9.8 mg/100 g.Amygdalin (34.27-61.70 mg/100 g) and hydrocyanic acid (2.02-3.72 mg/ 100 g) are reported to be present in frozen fruit.Leaves, buds, young twigs and bark contain amygdalin; tannin (4.47%); triterpenoids; sorbose, sorbitol and sorbic acid.... sorbus aucupariaHabitat: A small, aromatic tree occurring wild or grown throughout the country for edible fruits.
English: Hog-Plum, Wild Mango. Great Hog-Plum is equated with S. cytherea Sonn, synonym S. dulcis Soland. ex Forst. f.Ayurvedic: Aamraataka, Aamraata, Aamadaa, Madhuparni, Kundalini, Kapitana, Markataamra.Siddha/Tamil: Mambulichi, Kat- tuma.Folk: Jangali Aam.Action: Fruits, leaves, bark— astringent, antidysenteric, anti- speptic, antiscorbutic. Bark paste applied externally to articular and muscular rheumatism. Root—used for regulating menstruation.
The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia ofIn- dia recommends stem bark in haem- orrhagic diseases.The fruit contains beta-amyrin, olea- nolic acid and amino acids—glycine, cystine, serine, alanine and leucine; polysaccharides are also present.Aerial parts gave lignoceric acid, 24-methylenecycloartanone, stigmast- 4-en-3-one, beta-sitosterol and its glu- coside.Dosage: Stem bark—5-10 g powder for decoction (API, Vol. II); 1-3 g powder (API, Vol. III).... spondias pinnataHabitat: Indigenous to tropical Africa; now distributed throughout the plains and sub-Himalayan tracts of India.
English: Tamarind tree.Ayurvedic: Amli, Amlikaa, Suktaa, Chukraa, Chukrikaa, Chinchaa, Chandikaa, Tintidika.Unani: Tamar HindiSiddha/Tamil: Puli, Aanvilam.Action: Pulp of fruit—cooling, digestive, carminative, laxative, antiscorbutic; infusion prescribed in febrile diseases and bilious disorders; used as a gargle in sore throat; applied as a poultice on inflammatory swellings.
The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India recommends the fruit pulp in tiredness without exertion.Leaves—juice, used for bleeding piles, bilious fever and dysuria. Stem- bark—antipyretic and astringent.Used for diarrhoea. Bark is also prescribed in asthma and amenor- rhoea. Seed-kernel—stimulant; used as a supporting tonic in sexual debility in Unani medicine.Water stored in the tumbler, made out of the wood, is given for treating splenic enlargement.Ethanolic extract of the seed coat exhibited antioxidant activity. Kernel gave polysaccharides composed of D- glucose, D-xylose, D-galactose and L- arabinose in a molar ratio of 8:4:2:1. Polysaccharides showed immunomod- ulatory activities such as phagocytic enhancement, leukocyte migration inhibition and inhibition of lymphocyte proliferation.The leaves gave flavone C-glycosi- des—orientin, vitexin, iso-orientin and iso-vitexin. The leaves and fruits gave tartaric acid and malic acid. The fruit pulp yielded amino acids—ser- ine, beta-alanine, proline, pipecolinic acid, phenylalanine and leucine.A bitter principle, tamarindienal, isolated from the fruit pulp, showed fungicidal and bactericidal activity against Aspergillus nigar, Candida al- bicans, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli and Pseudomonas aerug- inosa.The ash of the bark is given in colic and indigestion. The ash is also used in gargles and mouthwash for apthous sores.Dosage: Fruit pulp without seeds— 4-10 g. (API, Vol. IV.)... tamarindus indicaHabitat: The Aka hills of Arunachal Pradesh, as a weed.
Action: Leaves and roots— decoction used in colds and fevers. Young plants—used for the treatment of convulsions in children.
Family: Scrophulariaceae.Habitat: Western Himalayas and Kashmir at 2,700-3,600 m.
English: Brooklime.Folk: Titalokiyaa, Tezhak.Action: Antiscorbutic, blood purifier, alterative, diuretic. Used for scurvy, scrofulous affections, swollen piles, lithiasis, skin diseases, burns, ulcers.
The plant gave iridoid glycosides including aucubin; bitters and tannins. Aucubin has been reported to stimulate the uric acid secretion of the kidneys.... veronica beccabungaAction: Antiseptic, antispasmodic, rubefacient, anthelmintic, insect repellent. Antimicrobial. Antiscorbutic. Expectorant.
Uses: Used by natives of the Molucca Islands as a lotion for painful stiff joints. Advised by physicians at the turn of the century to combat the tubercle bacillus. Infections of the bronchi. Worms in children. Toothache. Headache.
Preparation. Topically for toothache, bruises, sprains, neuralgia. Cajuput oil BPC: dose, 0.05-0.2ml.
Today it is confined to external use only as an ingredient of stimulating liniments and ointments for aching joints, fibrositis, etc. An ingredient of Olbas oil. ... cajeput
Action: Antiscorbutic.
Uses: Urinary tract infections. Unpleasant odour of urine. Believed to be of value for diabetes mellitis. Suppresses symptoms of bacterial infection. Prevention of Vitamin C deficiency states. Hay fever. Food and chemical allergies.
Preparations: Cranberry Juice Capsules. Ingredients: Oil (vegetable Soya) 243mg; Cranberry Juice Concentrate 12.1-140mg (equal to 1680mg of fresh cranberries); Gelatine 118mg; Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) 100mg; Glycerine 71mg; Beeswax 14mg; Lecithin 13mg; Vitamin E (d’Alpha-Tocopheral) 2iu. 2 capsules daily. (Power Health)
Fresh juice. “For mild urinary infections – drinking 15fl oz cranberry juice daily prevented bacteria clinging to the urinary tract.” (Dr Anthony Sobota, Professor of Microbiology, Youngstown University, Ohio, USA) ... cranberries
FAMILY: Rutaceae
SYNONYMS: C. medica var. acida, C. latifolia, Mexican lime, West Indian lime, sour lime.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: A small evergreen tree up to 4.5 metres high, with stiff sharp spines, smooth ovate leaves and small white flowers. The bitter fruit is a pale green colour, about half the size of a lemon.
DISTRIBUTION: Probably native to south Asia; naturalized in many tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It is cultivated mainly in south Florida, the West Indies (Cuba), Central America (Mexico) and Italy.
OTHER SPECIES: There are several species of lime such as the Italian lime (C. limetta) which is used to produce an oil called ‘limette’; and the leech-lime (C. hystrix) which is occasionally used to produce an essential oil called combava.
HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: The fruit is often used indiscriminately in place of lemon with which it shares many qualities. It is used for similar purposes including fever, infections, sore throat, colds, etc. It used to be used as a remedy for dyspepsia with glycerin of pepsin.
ACTIONS: Antirheumatic, antiscorbutic, antiseptic, antiviral, aperitif, bactericidal, febrifuge, restorative, tonic.
EXTRACTION: Essential oil by 1. cold expression of the peel of the unripe fruit; the expressed oil is preferred in perfumery work, and 2. steam distillation of the whole ripe crushed fruit (a by-product of the juice industry).
CHARACTERISTICS: 1. A pale yellow or olive-green liquid with a fresh, sweet, citrus-peel odour. 2. A water-white or pale yellow liquid with a fresh, sharp, fruity-citrus scent. It blends well with neroli, citronella, lavender, lavandin, rosemary, clary sage and other citrus oils.
PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: Limonene, pinenes, camphene, sabinene, citral, cymene, cineols and linalol, among others. The expressed ‘peel’ oil, but not the ‘whole fruit’ oil, also contains coumarins.
SAFETY DATA: Non-toxic, non-irritant, nonsensitizing. However, the expressed ‘peel’ oil is phototoxic (but not the steam-distilled ‘whole fruit’ oil).
AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE See lemon.
OTHER USES: Both oils, but mainly the expressed, are used as fragrance components in soaps, detergents, cosmetics and perfumes. Mainly the distilled oil, but also the terpeneless oil, is used by the food industry, especially in soft drinks – ‘lemon and lime’ flavour. The juice is used for the production of citric acid.... lime
FAMILY: Rutaceae
SYNONYMS: C. limonum, cedro oil.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: A small evergreen tree up to 6 metres high with serrated oval leaves, stiff thorns and very fragrant flowers. The fruit turns from green to yellow on ripening.
DISTRIBUTION: Native to Asia, probably east India; it now grows wild in the Mediterranean region especially in Spain and Portugal. It is cultivated extensively worldwide in Italy, Sicily, Cyprus, Guinea, Israel, South and North America (California and Florida).
OTHER SPECIES: There are about forty-seven varieties which are said to have been developed in cultivation, such as the Java lemon (C. javanica). The lemon is also closely related to the lime, cedrat (or citron) and bergamot.
HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: The juice and peel are widely used as a domestic seasoning. It is very nutritious, being high in vitamins A, B and C. In Spain and other European countries, lemon is something of a ‘cure-all’, especially with regard to infectious illness. It was used for fever, such as malaria and typhoid, and employed specifically for scurvy on English ships at sea.
Taken internally, the juice is considered invaluable for acidic disorders, such as arthritis and rheumatism, and of great benefit in dysentery and liver congestion.
ACTIONS: Anti-anaemic, antimicrobial, antirheumatic, antisclerotic, antiscorbutic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antitoxic, astringent, bactericidal, carminative, cicatrisant, depurative, diaphoretic, diuretic, febrifuge, haemostatic, hypotensive, insecticidal, rubefacient, stimulates white corpuscles, tonic, vermifuge.
EXTRACTION: Essential oil by cold expression from the outer part of the fresh peel. A terpeneless oil is also produced on a large scale (cedro oil).
CHARACTERISTICS: A pale greeny-yellow liquid (turning brown with age), with a light, fresh, citrus scent. It blends well with lavender, neroli, ylang ylang, rose, sandalwood, olibanum, chamomile, benzoin, fennel, geranium, eucalyptus, juniper, oakmoss, lavandin, elemi, labdanum and other citrus oils.
PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: Limonene (approx. 70 per cent), terpinene, pinenes, sabinene, myrcene, citral, linalol, geraniol, octanol, nonanol, citronellal, bergamotene, among others.
SAFETY DATA: Non-toxic; may cause dermal irritation or sensitization reactions in some individuals – apply in moderation. Phototoxic do not use on skin exposed to direct sunlight.
AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE
Skin care: Acne, anaemia, brittle nails, boils, chilblains, corns, cuts, greasy skin, herpes, insect bites, mouth ulcers, spots, varicose veins, warts.
Circulation muscles and joints: Arthritis, cellulitis, high blood pressure, nosebleeds, obesity (congestion), poor circulation, rheumatism.
Respiratory system: Asthma, throat infections, bronchitis, catarrh.
Digestive system: Dyspepsia.
Immune system: Colds, ’flu, fever and infections.
OTHER USES: Used as a flavouring agent in pharmaceuticals. Extensively used as a fragrance component in soaps, detergents, cosmetics, toilet waters and perfumes. Extensively employed by the food industry in most types of product, including alcoholic and soft drinks.... lemon
FAMILY: Pinaceae
SYNONYMS: Forest pine, Scots pine, Norway pine, pine needle (oil).
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: A tall evergreen tree, up to 40 metres high with a flat crown. It has a reddish-brown, deeply fissured bark, long stiff needles which grow in pairs, and pointed brown cones.
DISTRIBUTION: Native to Eurasia; cultivated in the eastern USA, Europe, Russia, the Baltic States and Scandinavia, especially Finland.
OTHER SPECIES: Like the fir tree, there are numerous species of pine which yield an essential oil from their heartwood as well as from their twigs and needles and are also used to produce turpentine. The oil from the needles of the Scotch pine is one of the most useful and safest therapeutically. Other species which produce pine needle oil include the eastern white pine (P. strobus) from the eastern USA and Canada, the dwarf pine (P. mugo var. pumilio) grown in central and southern Europe, and the black pine (P. nigra) from Austria and Yugoslavia.
Many varieties, such as the longleaf pine (Pinus palustris), are used to produce turpentine. In addition, the oil commonly known as Siberian pine needle oil is actually from the Siberian fir (Abies sibirica). See also dwarf pine and the Botanical Classification section.
HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: The young macerated shoots are added to the bath for nervous exhaustion, circulatory disorders, slow, healing wounds, arthritis, rheumatism and skin disorders. It was used by the American Indians to prevent scurvy, and to stuff mattresses to repel lice and fleas.
As an inhalation it helps relieve bronchial catarrh, asthma, blocked sinuses, etc. The pine kernels are said to be excellent restoratives for consumptives, and after long illness.
ACTIONS: Antimicrobial, antineuralgic, antirheumatic, antiscorbutic, antiseptic (pulmonary, urinary, hepatic), antiviral, bactericidal, balsamic, cholagogue, choleretic, deodorant, diuretic, expectorant, hypertensive, insecticidal, restorative, rubefacient, stimulant (adrenal cortex, circulatory, nervous), vermifuge.
EXTRACTION: 1. Essential oil by dry distillation of the needles. 2. Gum turpentine is produced by steam distillation from the oleoresin: see entry on turpentine. (An inferior essential oil is also produced by dry distillation from the wood chippings, etc.)
CHARACTERISTICS: 1. Pine needle oil is a colourless or pale yellow mobile liquid with a strong, dry-balsamic, turpentine-like aroma. It blends well with cedarwood, rosemary, tea tree, sage, lavender, juniper, lemon, niaouli, eucalyptus and marjoram. 2. See entry on turpentine.
PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: 50–90 per cent monoterpene hydrocarbons: pinenes, carene, dipentene, limonene, terpinenes, myrcene, ocimene, camphene, sabinene; also bornyl acetate, cineol, citral, chamazulene, among others.
SAFETY DATA: Non-toxic, non-irritant (except in concentration), possible sensitization. Avoid in allergic skin conditions.
AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE
Skin care: Cuts, lice, excessive perspiration, scabies, sores.
Circulation muscles and joints: Arthritis, gout, muscular aches and pains, poor circulation, rheumatism.
Respiratory system: Asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, coughs, sinusitis, sore throat.
Genito-urinary system: Cystitis, urinary infection.
Immune system: Colds, ’flu.
Nervous system: Fatigue, nervous exhaustion and stress-related conditions, neuralgia.
OTHER USES: Used as a fragrance component in soaps, detergents, cosmetics, toiletries (especially bath products) and, to a limited extent, perfumes. Employed as a flavour ingredient in major food products, alcoholic and soft drinks.... pine, scotch
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