Académique Documents
Professionnel Documents
Culture Documents
1. Introduction:
“There is no plant in this Universe which is non medicinal and which cannot be made use
of for many purpose and by many modes.” This definition rightly suggests that in
principle all plants have a potential medicinal value. Medicinal plants have been
considered as important therapeutic aid for alleviating ailments of humankind. Search for
eternal health and longevity and to seek remedy to relieve pain and discomfort prompted
the early man to explore his immediate natural surrounding to develop a variety of
therapeutic agents using natural resources.
1.5 Trade:
The industrial uses of medicinal plants are many ranging from traditional medicines,
herbal teas and health foods as nutriceuticals to galenicals, phytopharmaceuticals and
industrially produced pharmaceuticals.
Medicinal plants also constitute a source of valuable foreign exchange for most
developing countries as they are a ready source of drugs such as quinine and reserpine, of
galenicals like tincture and of intermediates in the production of semi synthetic drugs.
Coscinium fenestratum Colebr.
Coscinium fenestratum is used to cure stomatitis and eye diseases. A weak infusion of the
stem is used as a lotion for foul ulcers with great success.Coscinium fenestratum
possesses antiseptic properties. It has been used also as a yellow dye. A 50% ethanol
extract of Coscinium fenestratum stem material (AECF) has been found to possess
hypotensive action in anaesthetised dogs, rats and guinea pigs in a dose-related pattern.
Antioxidant effect of methanol extract of Coscinium fenestratum stem powder was
examined using carbon tetrachloride-intoxicated rat liver as the experimental model. The
decreased activities of antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase, catalase,
glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase in carbon tetrachloride-intoxicated rats,
and its retrieval towards near-normalcy in the methanol extract co-administered animals
revealed the effectiveness of Coscinium fenestratum in combating oxidative stress due to
hepatic damage. The leaves, flowers and other parts of the creeper are used as a
traditional ayurvedic skin care treatment to enhance the complexion of the skin
The tree is valued for its dried rind which is rich in acids and possesses marked antiseptic
properties. It contains tartaric acid, reducing sugars, and phosphoric acid (as calcium
triphosphate). It limits the synthesis of fatty acids in the muscles and liver lipogenesis
(production of fat) by inhibiting the enzyme ATP-citrate lyase. The fruits contain about
30% acids (calculated as citric acid) on the dry basis which is essentially (-)-hydroxy-
citric acid. A decoction of the fruit rind is given in rheumatism and bowel complaints.
The resin possesses purgative properties.
The volatile oil obtained by the steam distillation of the leaves of G. fragrantissima is
identical to Wintergreen oil, obtained from G. procumbens. The principal constituent of
the oil is methyl salicylate. It is stimulant, carminative and antiseptic. It is applied
externally in the form of liniment or ointment in rheumatism, sciatica and neuralgia. It is
a diuretic, stimulant, and emenagogue. It is very useful in gout and stiffness due to old
age. It also revitalizes and gives energy following muscular pains.
Gymnema has the property of destroying sugar and hence it is very useful in diabetes.Its
principal constituent is gymnemic acid which has anti-diabetic properties. The leaves
when chewed have the property of paralysing the sense of taste for sweet and bitter
substances for a few hours. The leaf extracts contain gymnemic acid which is said to
inhibit hyperglycemia. It abolishes the taste of sugar and is believed to neutralize
excessive sugar present in the body in diabetes mellitus. It has also been shown to have a
regenerative effect on pancreatic beta cells and is insulinotropic. The plant is stomachic,
stimulant, laxative, diuretic and useful in cough. In Ayurveda this plant is mentioned as
bitter, acrid, cooling tonic, alterative, anthelmentic, alexiteric and useful in respiratory
troubles, heart diseases, piles, leukoderma and urinary discharges.
Thalictrum foliolosumDC.
The root is antiperiodic, diuretic, febrifuge, ophthalmic, purgative, salve, stomachic and
tonic. It is considered to be a good remedy for atonic dyspepsia and is also useful in
convalescence after acute diseases and as an application for ophthalmia
4. Some therapeutic actions, mode of action and some plants that possess these
actions:
4.1 Immunomodulator:
The immune system, resulting from millions of years of evolution, provides protection
against microbial infections and the body’s own damaged or cancerous cells. It is
composed of the innate and the adaptive immune responses. The innate immune response
involves processes that occur almost immediately after exposure to a foreign
microorganism, and is now known to exhibit a degree of specificity. The adaptive
immune response is triggered within a few hours to a few days, and provides exquisite
specificity and a long-lasting protection through specialist memory cells.
An immunomodulator is any substance that helps to regulate the immune system. This
"regulation" is a normalisation process, so that an immunomodulator helps to optimise
immune response. Immunomodulators do not tend to boost immunity, but to normalize it.
Part of their benefit appears to be their ability to naturally increase the body's production
of messenger molecules, such as cytokines, which mediate and regulate the immune
system making the immune system more efficient.
Some plants with properties of Immunomodulator:
Aconitum heterophyllum, Acorus calamus, Ailanthus exelsa, Asparagus racemosa,
Azadirachta indica, Bacopa monnieri, Berberis aristata, Chonemorpha macrophylla,
Citrullus coclcynthis, Cloedendron serratum, Crataeva nurvala, Curcuma longa, Cyclea
peltata, Cyperus rotundus, Eclipta alba, Embelia ribes, Emblica officinalis, Hemidesmus
indica, Holarrhena antidysentrica, Ichnocarpus frutescens, Picrorhiza kurroa, Piper
longum, Plumbago indica, Psoralia corylifolia, Pterospermum marsupium, Rubia
cordifolia, Santalum album, Saussurea lappa, Solanum surattense, Terminalia bellarica,
Terminalia chebula, Tinospora cordifolia, Tragia involucrata, Vertiveria zizanioides,
Zingiber officinale.
4.2 Antioxidant:
Antioxidants are substances that may protect cells from damage caused by unstable
molecules known as free radicals. Exposure to various environmental factors lead to
formation of free radicals, which are actually electrically charged oxygen molecules.
These electrically charged oxygen molecules take up electrons from other molecules
causing an array of disorders. Antioxidant interact with these free radicals and stabilizes
them and thereby prevents them from damaging the cells. Some antioxidants stimulate
the immune system and increase the activity of detoxifying enzymes in the liver.
Some plants with properties of antioxidant:
Allium sativa, Beta vulgaris, Bixa orellana, Brassica oleracea, Celastrus paniculata,
Citrus aurantifolia, Crocus sativa, Curcuma longa, Emblica officinalis, Hemidesmus
indicus, Hippophae rhamnoides, Lycopersicon esculentum, Momordica charantia,
Murraya koenigii, Picrorhiza kurroa, Plumbago zeylanica, Syzygium cumini, Trigonella
foenum-graceum, Withania somnifera.
4.3 Astringent:
Astringents are any of a group of medicines that shrink mucous membranes and stop or
slow secretion of blood, mucous, or other fluids from human body. Astringents decrease
fluids by narrowing small blood vessels, drawing water away from organ, or coagulating
the superficial layers of organ into a crust. They usually contain tannins that precipitate
the proteins when they come into contact with it. Thus, in a remedy, they will tend tone
up the mucous membranes and reduce secretions and discharge, and have an anti-
catarrhal effect. Astringents are also anti-haemorrhagic and will form an eschar (scab)
over a wound so preventing the entry of bacteria. Sometimes they will act on tissues with
which there is no direct contact.
Some plants with properties of astringent:
Abrus precatorius, Acacia catechu, Aerva lantana, Allophyllus serratus, Anogeissus
latifolia, Blumea lacera, Boswellia serrata, Bauhinia variegata, Callicarpa macrophylla,
Calycopteris floribunda, Canthium parviflorum, Catuneregam spinosa, Costus speciosus,
Crataeva magna, Crotolaria retusa, Dalbergia sisso, Ficus hispida, Ficus microcarpa,
Flacourtia jangomas, Garcinia morella, Gossypium arboretum, Ipomoea mauritiana,
Jasminum arborescens, Jasminum auriculatum, Kyllinga nemoralis, Limonia acidissima,
Premna corymbosa, Pseudarthria viscida, Sapindus lauriflorus, Symclocos chinensis,
Symplocos racemosa, Syzygium cumini, Toddalia asiatica, Verbena officinalis, Vitex
trifolia, Zanthoxylum rhetsa.
4.4 Depurative:
A depurative is effective in blood purification and detoxification. They assist the body in
ridding itself of viral and bacterial toxins that the body has stored over the years. The
blood performs many vital functions which sometimes become over-taxed during acute &
chronic cellular disease. Likewise, many ailments and diseases are the direct result of
impurities & toxins within the blood. The blood is, therefore, a target for effective
medicinal intervention. Depurative changes the properties of the blood from an
"unhealthy state" to a "healthy" one. It filters out the toxins and wastes, kills microbial
organisms present in the blood, adjusts and balances vital salts, furnishes nutrients, and
strengthened and enhances important plasma substances.
Some plants with properties of depurative:
Albizzia lebbeck, Andrographis paniculata, Anogeissus latifolia, Aphanamixis
polystachya, Aristolochia indica, Artemesia nilagirica, Asclepias curassavica,
Buchanania lanzan, Calotropis gigantean, Cassia auriculata, Chonemorpha fragrans,
Cocculus hirsutus, Coscimum fenestratum, Gloriosa superba, Hemidesmus indicus,
Homonoia riparia, Hydnocarpus laurifolia, Kirganelia reticulata, Melia azedarach,
Murraya koenigii, Pterocarpus santalinus, Pterospermum canascens, Rhinacanthus
nasuta, Ricinus communis, Samadera indica, Schrebera swietenioides, Swertia
angustifolia, Thespesia populnea, Vetiveria zizanioides, Woodfordia fruiticosa.
4.7 Aphrodisiac:
Since the beginning of time people have searched high and low for substances they could
use to stimulate and heighten sexual desire in themselves and others. Various food have
gained notoriety for being sexual stimulants however there is very little scientific
evidence in their support An aphrodisiac is defined as any food or drug that arouses
sexual instinct, enhances sexual vitality, and helps to overcome sexual dysfunction
naturally. Herbs have become increasingly fashionable for use as aphrodisiac and unlike
substances like the Spanish Fly and Chan Su, it does not hurt to try and find out if they if
they actually possess the said property. Most of the herbs are not only said to increase
libido but they are quite healthy to eat. In fact some say that the true reason people
believe these foods are aphrodisiacs is because healthy eating promotes better physical
condition and, in turn, better sexual performance.
4.8 Contraceptive:
The primary mechanism of action of contraceptives is the inhibition of ovulation. The
release of an egg, which commonly occurs in the middle of the menstrual cycle, is
prevented by them. Two hormones produced by the pituitary, a gland located at the base
of the brain, coordinate the development and release of an egg from the ovary. One is
follicle stimulating hormone, abbreviated FSH, and the other is luteinizing hormone, or
LH. A surge in both of these hormones ordinarily occurs in the middle of a woman's
menstrual cycle. The surge in LH is the trigger for ovulation. Oral contraceptives inhibit
the production of both FSH and LH and consequently prevent ovulation. The
contraceptive action of one group of contraceptives occurs primarily at the level of the
pituitary and the hypothalamus. They interrupt the usual hormonal messages sent from
the brain to the ovary that lead to ovulation.
Some plants with properties of contraceptive:
Abrus precatorius, Ageratum conyzoides, Anthocephalus cadamba, Berberis aristata,
Butea monosperma, Caesalpinia bonduc, Carum carvi, Cissampelos parriera, Cucumis
sativa, Curcuma longa, Curcuma zedoaria, Embelia ribes, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis,
Holerrhena antidysentrica, Mentha arvensis, Martynia annua, Mesua ferrea, Michelia
champaca, Mimusops elengi, Mimusops hexandra, Nigella sativa, Piper nigrum,
Plumbago zeylanica, Ricinus communis, Salmalia malabarica, Santalum album,
Syzygium cumini, Zizyphus jujuba, Valeriana wallichii
4.9 Emmenagouge:
Emmenagouge stimulates the uterine muscular fibers and promotes menstrual flow. If
used in higher doses they can act as abortifacients. Some of the emmemnagouge acts as
tonic in gynaecological disorders
Some plants with Emmenagouge properties:
Arctium minus, Artemisia maritime, Aristolochia bracteolata, Artemisia niligirica,
Barringtonia acutangula, Boswellia serrata, Capparis deciduas, Cardiospermum
halicacabum, Carthamus tinctorius, Celastrus paniculata, Cichorium intybus,
Commiphora mukul, Cyperus rotundus, Delphinium denudatum, Euphorbia thymifolia,
Gossipium arboretum, Melia azaderach, Moringa oleifera, Mucuna pruriens,
Origanum vulgare, Polygonum hydropiper, Prunus ceracoides, Salacia reticulate,
Urtica dioca.
4.10 Abortifacient:
Abortifacient are substances that causes or induces abortion. The mode of action alters
the endometrium so the uterus is not receptive to implantation of the fertilized egg. The
developing embryo travels through the fallopian tube, reaches the uterus where it would
normally be nourished and protected until birth. The uterus gets chemically altered so that
there is no nourishment for the developing embryo and hence the embryo is aborted.
They may have other benefits such as regulation of menstrual cycle.
Some plants with Abortifacient properties:
Abrus precatorius, Ageratum conyzoides, Cassia fistula, Cassia occidentalis,
Catunaregam spinosa, Celastrus paniculata, Dalbergia sissoo, Derris brevipes,
Garcinia morella, Gloriosa superba, Helotriopium indicum, Lawsonia inermis, Moringa
oleifera, Nigella sativa, Pandanus odaratissimus, Plumbago indica, Sapindus
lauriflorus, Trichosanthes tricus .
4.11 Galactagouge:
Galactagouge promotes the flow of milk in nursing mothers. Although their exact mode
of action is unclear and probably diverse, some are known to act by inhibiting dopamine
release, allowing for the unopposed secretion of prolactin.
Some plants with Galactagouge properties:
Alternenthera sessilis, Amaranthus spinosus, Barringtonia acutangula, Coccinia grandis,
Cyperus rotundus, Ficus hispida, Gmelina arborea, Holostemma ada-kodienk, Ipomoea
mauritiana, Jatropha curcus, Lilium polyphyllum, Limnophila aromatica, Nigella sativa,
Noelamarkia cadamba, Polygonatum cirrifolium, Premna corymbosa, Pueraria tuberose,
Ricinus communis, Saussurea lappa.
4.13 Antiperiodic:
These are agents, which prevent or check the return of diseases which recur periodically.
Very little is known of their mode of action however it is possible that they have a toxic
action upon the microbes in the blood, which are supposed to cause the disease. The
typical antiperiodic, quinine, has, however, a decided effect upon the heart and brain, as
well as other parts of the nervous system.
Achyranthus aspera, Aconitum heterophyllum, Andrographis paniculata, Aesculus
hippocastanum, Aristolochia bracteolate, Cassia fistula, Cassia tora, Crataeva magna,
Cyperus rotundus, Enicostemma axillare, Gymnema sylvestris, Holarrhena
antidysentrica, Melia azedarach, Picrorhiza scrophula, Tinospora cordifolia, Tragia
involucrata, Vernonia cinerea.
4.14 Antiinflammatory:
Inflammation is a process that is accompanied by local liberation of chemical mediators
like histamines, 5 – hydroxytryptamine, bradykinin and eicosanoids. They are formed in
almost every tissue in the body. Inhibition of their biosynthesis is the main stay of anti-
inflammatory therapy. Antiinflammatory drugs are used in a variety of conditions
including arthritis, muscle and ligament pains, pains after operations, headaches,
migraines, and some other types of pains. Antiinflammatory agents do not alter the course
of painful conditions however they ease symptoms of pain and stiffness.
Plants used as remedy:
Acacia catechu, Aglaia roxburghiana, Allophyllus serratus, Anogeissus latifolia,
Aristolochia bracteolate, Artemesia nilagirica, Baliospermum montanum, Bauhinia
variegate, Berberis asiatica, Blumea lacera, Buchanania lanzan, Caesalpinia bonduc,
Cassia fistula, Cassia occidentalis, Catunaregam spinosa, Celastrus paniculata,
Cinnamomum camphora, Commiphora mukul, Crinum asiaticum, Cyclea peltata,
Cyperus rotundus, Dalbergia sissoo, Delphinium denudatum, Desmodium gangeticum,
Enicostemma axillare, Erythrina indica, Ficus hispida, Flacourtia jangomas, Gentiana
kurroo, Gossypium arboretum, Holoptelea integrifolia, Hydnocarpus laurifolia,
Hygrophilla auriculata, Hyoscyamus niger, Inula racemosa, Lagenaria siceraria,
Moringa oleifera, Nigella sativa, Nyctanthes arbotristis, Oxalis corniculata, Pedalium
murex, Picrorhiza scrophula, Plumbago indica, Pterocarpus marsupium, Pterocarpus
santalinus, Rubia cordifolia, Salacia reticulata.
4.15 Antispasmodic:
Antispasmodic drugs also known as anticholinergics relieve cramps, reduce
uncontrollable movements, prevent bladder spasm, relax the lung airways and dry the
nose and chest. They are used to treat stomach cramps, Parkinson’s disease, colds,
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and urinary incontinence and muscle spasms from
cerebral palsy. Antispasmodics prevent the entry of choline in the nerve terminal by
hemicholinium and triethylcholine. It also prevents the entry of acetylcholine into the
synaptic vesicles by vesamicol. It prevents the release of acetylcholine by ecocytosis and
blocks the cholinergic receptors.
Plants used as remedy:
Abelmoschus moschatus, Adhatoda vasica, Ailanthus exelsa, Anthemis nobilis, Cassia
occidentalis, Cissampelos parreira, Commiphora mukul, Ferula asafoetida, Hyocyamus
niger, Mentha piperita, Mimosa pudica, Mirabilis jalapa, Phyllanthus niruri, Scoparia
dulcis, Tinospora cordifolia, Withania somnifera, Vetiveria zizanioides.
4.17 Antimicrobial:
Antimicrobial destroy disease causing microorganism with minimal damage to host
tissues. They act against bacteria, viruses, fungi and other invading organisms to
inactivate or destroy them. This may be a direct effect on the microbe or it may be
indirect, by way of stimulating or modifying the immune response. Broad spectrum
antimicrobials act on a large number of microbes whereas narrow spectrum
antimicrobials are selective in action acting on specific organisms
Plants used as remedy:
Allium sativa, Aquilaria agallocha, Bixa orellana, Cassia occidentalis, Chukrasia
tabularis, Jatropha gossipifolia, Mirabilis jalapa, Momordica charantia, Nyctanthes
arbor-tristis, Vitex negundo.
4.17 Antimalarial:
Malaria is one of the most significant and fifth largest killer infectious diseases of the
world. It is a protozoal disease caused by Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium malariae,
Plasmodium ovale and Plasmodium falciparum. The effectiveness of drug in malaria
depends upon the efficacy of the particular drug in a particular parasite species and the
stage in the life cycle of the parasite. Antimalarial drugs, if used appropriately, can cure
malarial infection completely and suppress symptoms in individuals exposed to infection
in endemic areas. Certain antimalarial inhibit the growth of the parasite in the pre-
erythrocytic stages which prevents malarial fever and further transmission to mosquitoes.
Second group of drug eliminates all the remaining parasites in the body after the primary
infection is effectively treated. Third group of antimalarial drug kill the asexual
erythrocytic stage of the malarial parasites and thus terminate the clinical attacks of the
disease. Fourth group of antimalarial destroys the sexual stages of the parasite in blood
thereby prevent the transmission of the parasite to the mosquito. The fifth group prevents
further development of the malarial oocysts and sporozoites in the infected mosquito.
Plants used as remedy:
Adina cordifolia, Allium cepa, Alnus serrulata Alstonia scholaris, Andira inermis,
Anthemis nobilis, Argemone mexicana, Artemisia annua, Asplenium lunulatum,
Azadirachta indica, Bauhinia malabarica, Bixa orellana, Heliotropium indicum,
Naregamia alata, Ocimum americanum, Phyllanthus niruri, Plectranthus amboinicus,
Schleichera oleosa, Scoparia dulcis, Sterospermum colais, Strychnos nux-vomica,
Swertia chirayata, Taraxacum officinale, Vitex negundo.
4.18 Antibacterial:
Antibacterial drugs either kill the bacteria directly or prevent them from multiplying so
that the body’s immune system can destroy the invading bacteria. Antibacterial drugs act
by interfering with some specific characteristics of bacteria. Bacterial cells possess rigid
cell wall which maintains its shape. Certain antibacterial injury the wall or inhibits its
formation leading to lysis of the bacterial cell thereby causing the death of the organism.
One group of antibacterial inhibit cell membrane function by altering the permeability
that results in leakage of intracellular macromolecules and ions leading to cell damage
and cell death. A number of antibacterial inhibit protein synthesis through an action on
ribosomes in the bacterial cells. Some antibacterial bind strongly to DNA dependant RNA
polymerase of bacteria inhibiting RNA synthesis thus inhibiting bacterial growth.
Plants used as remedy:
Ageratum conyzoides, Artemisia pallens, Azadirachta indica, Betula utilis, Caesalpinnia
bonducella, Capparis deciduas, Cassia siamea, Chukrasia tabularis, Cryptostegia
grandiflora, Embelia tsjeriam-cottem, Euphorbia thymifolia, Ficus religiosa, Garcinia
morella, Lantana camara, Leucas aspera, Momordica charantia, Morus alba, Nigella
sativa, Nyctanthes arbotristis, Ocimum canum, Oxalis corniculata, Portulaca oleracea,
Premna corymbosa, Solanum indicum, Solanum nigrum, Toddalia asiatica,Urtica dioica,
Vateria indica, Vernonia cinerea, Woddfordia fruticosa.
4.19 Antifungal:
Fungal infections can have effects ranging from an irritating patch of itchy skin to a life
threatening condition. In general fungal infections can be divided into topical
(superficial) infection affecting the skin, nails, hair or mucous membranes and systematic
infections affecting deeper tissues and organs. Widespread use of immunosuppressive
chemotherapy, broad spectrum antibiotics, corticosteroids, implants and the emergence of
AIDS, compromise the host defense mechanism allowing infection by saprophytic fungi.
Mild infections are usually susceptible to topical therapy, however severe or resistant
infections may require systemic treatment. Certain antifungal bind with high affinity to
ergosterol present in fungal membranes resulting in certain alterations in the fungal
membrane with formation of microspores. Through these pores vital macromolecules and
ions are lost leading to irreversible damage. Another group of antifungal inhibits DNA
synthesis of the fungus exerting antifungal effect.
Plants used as remedy:
Abroma augusta, Aglaia roxburghiana, Alpinia galangal, Amamirta cocculus, Artemisia
niligarica, Artemisia pallens, Asclepias curassavica, Azadirachta indica, Bacopa
monnieri, Berberis aristata, Caesulia axillaries, Calotropis procera, Chukrasia tabularis,
Lippia alba, Psoralea coryfolia, Moringa oleifera, Nelumbo nucifera, Syzygium
travancorium, Tinospora cordifolia, Vernonia cinerea.
4.20 Antiviral:
Viruses are the smallest microorganism infecting human beings. Virus invades the cell
and is dependant on the cell’s metabolic for its requirements and hence it is difficult to
control or inhibit them. There are two types of viruses- DNA viruses that cause smallpox,
chicken pox, herpes, glandular fever and RNA viruses that cause influenza, measles,
mumps etc. Antiviral drugs interfere with the life cycle of a virus by preventing its
penetration into a host cell or by blocking the synthesis of new virus. Some antiviral
stimulate the immune system so that the body can fight the viral infection itself.
Plants used as remedy:
Aloe barbedensis, Andrographis paniculata, Arctium lappa, Barleria prionitis,
Calophyllum inophyllum, Cassia fistula. Melia azadirach, Momordica charantia,
Phyllanthus amaras, Phyllanthus niruri, Rheum officinalis, Santalum album,
Sarcostemma acidum, Scoparia dulcis, Terminalia chebula.
4.21 Antiseptic:
Since time immemorial chemical substances were used to control the infection in wounds
and spread of contagious diseases. Antiseptic agents kill or inhibit the growth of
microorganisms on the external surfaces of the body. They are toxic both to the
microorganism and the host and hence are used topically. There is a great variation in the
ability of antiseptics to destroy microorganisms and in their effect on living tissue
Antiseptics are potent germicidal usually with broad spectrum activity. There is also a
great difference in the time required for different antiseptics to work.
Plants used as remedy:
Acacia catechu, Anthemis nobilis, Bixa orellana, Cassia occidentalis, Catunaregam
spinosa, Cinnamomum camphora Commiphora mukul, Garcinia cambogia, Homonoia
riparia, Indigofera tinctoria, Inula racemosa, Jasminum grandiflora, Limnophila
aromatica, Mangifera indica, Melia azaderach, Mentha arvensis, Nardostachys
grandiflora, Pandanus odaratissimus, Phylanthus amaras, Pterocarpus santalinus,
Oxalis corniculata, Rhinacanthus nasuta, Rubia cordifolia, Sassurea lappa, Scoparia
dulcis, Semecarpus anacardium, Solanum nigrum, Streblus asper, Vitex negundo,
Zanonia indica, Zanthoxylum armatum, Zizyphus oenoplia.
4.22 Expectorant:
Cough is one of the most common symptoms of respiratory diseases. It is a protective
reflex and helps in clearing the airway of unwanted matter from upper respiratory tract.
Cough reflex is elicited on stimulation of receptors in the mucosa of airway. The cough
receptors are stimulated by inflammation, secretion, foreign bodies, chemical substances
and intrabronchial tumours. Expectorants augment the output of the respiratory tract and
facilitate the excretion of mucous from the lungs and the throat.
Plants used as remedy:
Acalypha indica, Achyranthes aspera, Aconitum heterophyllum, Albizzia lebbeck, Betula
utilis, Boerrhavia diffusa, Caesalpinna bonduc, Calamus rotang, Capparis deciduas,
Catunaregam spinosa, Cinnamomum camphora, Clerodendron serrata, Commiphora
mukul, Coptis teeta, Crinum asiaticum, Cuscuta reflexa, Gardenia gummifera, Grewia
tiliefolia, Helicteris isora, Hiptage benghalensis, Inula racemosa, Lagenaria siceraria,
Lilium polyphyllum, Naregamia alata, Plumbago indica, Terminalia chebula, Terminalia
paniculata, Tylophora indica.
4.23 Anthelmentic:
Parasitic infections impose a substantial health problem and economic burden in under
developed countries. Anthelmentic are used in eradicating a number of helminthic
parasites in the intestinal tracts of humans and other animals. There are two categories of
anthelmentics – 1) vermicide which destroys the parasite without causing their expulsion
from the bowels and hence a laxative or a cathartic has to be used to expel the dead
parasite.2) vermifuge which expels the parasite from the bowel. Anthelmentics inhibits
cytoplasmic microtubule synthesis in nematodes and impair their glucose uptake and
secretion of acetylcholinesterase. As a result the parasites are immobilized and die slowly.
Plants used as remedy:
Alangium salvifolium, Aristolochia bracteolate, Barrintonia acutangula, Canscora
decussate, Careya arborea, Cissampelos pareira, Cleome viscose, Cordia dichotoma,
Cressa cretica, Cucumis trigonus, Embelia ribes, Leucas aspera, Mallotus philipinensis,
Morus alba, Operculina turpethum, Ophiorrhiza mungos, Phyla nodiflora, Piper longum,
Sarcostemma kleinii, Sesbania grandiflora, Shorea robusta, Solanum surattense,
Sphaeranthus indicus, Tamarindus indicus, Tephrosia purpurea, Tinospora cordifolia,
Vernonia anthelmentica, Vernonia cinerea, Vitex negundo, Zizyphus oenoplia.
4.24 Hepatoprotective:
Liver breaks down and neutralizes an array of toxic that enters our body. Natural
substances like hormones are also broken down by the liver. Hepatitis and cirrhosis are
two diseases that can badly damage the liver. Hepatitis is an inflammation of liver caused
by certain viruses. Cirrhosis changes the structure of the liver and hence it fails to
function properly leading to retention of toxins in the blood. Therapeutic agents used in
liver disorders promote the production of bile in the liver and promotes the release of bile
from the gall bladder into the duodenum. Agents that stimulate the production and flow
of bile often considered alternatives, and because bile promotes peristalsis, the net effect
of is usually a laxative effect. Hepatics are often liver trophorestoratives, acting to
strengthen the liver, aid in pelvic decongestion, and generally improve digestion and
elimination.
Plants used as remedy:
Andrographis paniculata, Adhatoda vasica, Aloe barbadensis, Alpinia galangal, Alstonia
scholaris, Bixa orellana, Blumea lacera, Boerrhavia diffusa, Caesalpinnia bonduc,
Capparis spinosa, Cassia fistula, Cassia tora, Cichorum intybus, Commiphora mukul,
Cucumis trigonus, Curcuma longa, Cyperus rotundus, Eclipta alba, Enicostemma
axillare, Flacourtia jangomas, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Mirabilis jalapa, Picrorhiza kurooa,
Podophyllum hexandrum, Phyllanthus amarus, Phyllanthus niruri, Semecarpus
anacardium, Silybum marianum, Sphaeranthus indicus, Solanum nigrum, Solena
amplexicaulis, Strychnos potatorum, Swertia chirata, Symplocos racemosus, Taraxacum
officinale, Trifolium pratense, Valeriana wallichii, Terminalia arjuna, Terminalia
chebula, Trigonella foenum-graecum, Wedelia chinensis, Wrightia tinctoria.
4.25 Antijaundice:
Jaundice or Hepatitis A is an acute infectious disease caused by Hepatitis A virus (HAV).
Jaundice means the yellow appearance of the skin and whites of the eyes that occurs
when the blood contains an excess of the pigment called bilirubin. Bilirubin is a natural
product arising from the normal breakdown of red blood cells in the body and is excreted
in the bile, through the actions of the liver. Although jaundice is most often the result of a
disorder affecting the liver it can be caused by a variety of other conditions affecting for
example the blood or spleen
The red blood cells in our circulation carry oxygen to all parts of the body and have a life
span of about 120 days. At the end of their life they are broken down and removed from
the circulation by special cells called phagocytes, which are found within the bone
marrow, spleen and liver. Following breakdown of the red cells some of their component
parts such as amino acids and iron can be re-used by the body. Other components such as
bilirubin need to be removed Bilirubin released from old red cells, passes through the
bloodstream to the liver, where the liver cells process it. These cells carry out many
complex chemical functions and also produce the liquid bile, which is the 'vehicle' by
which the cells discharge their output to the bile duct system. Bile (and therefore
bilirubin) then passes out through the small and large intestines and is excreted in the
stool (faeces).Therefore, any failure of the bilirubin removal pathway will lead to a build-
up of bilirubin in the blood. When this happens the individual's skin turns yellow, causing
jaundice. The balance between manufacture and breakdown of red cells is normally
precisely balanced and equal but there are several conditions in which the rate of
breakdown increases. If the amount of bilirubin thus released exceeds the liver's capacity
to remove it, then jaundice will develop.
The commonest cause is a viral infection of the liver cells known as Hepatitis. Many
different types of infection including glandular fever (mononucleosis) can also be
responsible for this. Alcohol abuse and subsequent scarring of the liver (cirrhosis) can
cause significant cell damage leading to jaundice.
The disease is heralded by non specific symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, fatigue,
generalized weakness, followed by anorexia, nausea, vomiting and dark urine.
Plants used as remedy:
Abrus precatorius, Aloe vera, Asplenium lunulatum, Azadirachta indica, Baliospermum
montana, Berbaris aristata; Bixa orellana, Boerrhavia difusa, Chonemorpha fragrans,
Cichorium intybus, Citrullus colcynthis, Coscinium fenestratum, Curculigo orchioides,
Curcuma longa, Embelia ribes, Emblica officinalis, Hedyotis corymbosa, Hibiscus
vitifolius, Holarrhena antidysenterica, Hygrophila auriculata, Lagenaria siceraria,
Leucas aspera, Mahonia leshchenaultia, Matricaria chamomilla, Mimosa pudica,
Nigella sativa, Operculina turpethum Phyllanthus niruri, Picrorhiza kurooa, Picrorhiza
scrophula, Podophyllum emodi, Portulaca oleracea, Rubia cordifolia; Santalum album,
Sphaeranthus indicus, Tamarindus indicus, Taraxacum officinale, Tephrosia purpurea,
Terminalia chebula, Thalictrum foliolosum, Tinospora cordifolia, Trichosanthes lobata,
Tylophora indica, Uvaria narum, Valeriana jatamansi, Verbena officinalis.
4.26 Anticancer:
Cancer is commonly defined as an uncontrolled growth of cells, with loss of
differentiation and commonly, with metastasis, spread of the cancer to other tissues and
organs. Cancer is malignant growth. Cancer treatment involves surgery, radiation and
drugs, singly or in combination. Majority of anticancer drugs act by interfering with
cancerous cell growth, however these drugs commonly affect not only the cancerous cells
but other cells that reproduce quickly like the cancer cells. Therapeutic effect of
anticancer herbs is executed by inhibiting the cancer activating enzymes, stimulating
DNA repair mechanism, promoting production of protective enzymes, inducing
antioxidant action and by enhancing activity of the immune cells. Certain biological
response modifiers derived from herbs are known to inhibit growth of cancer by
modulating the activity of specific hormones and enzymes. Some herbs reduce toxic side
effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
Plant used as remedy:
Abrus precatorius, Aloe vera, Arctium lappa, Asclepias curassavica, Berberis aristata,
Betula utilis, Catharanthus roseus, Curcuma longa, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Heliotropium
indicum, Jatropha curcus, Kaempferia rotunda, Morus alba, Nothopodytes foetida,
Podophyllum hexandrum, Rhinacanthus nasuta, Rhuem officinale, Semecarpus
anacardium, Silybum marianum, Stillingia sylvatica, Taxus wallichiana, Tiliacora
racemosa, Trifolium pratense, Urtica dioca, Vernonia cinerea, Viola odorata, Vitex
trifolia, Viscum album, Withania somnifera.
4.27 Antitumor:
Tumors are benign growth that remain encapsulated and grow within a well defined area.
Tumors may be fatal if untreated as they may exert pressure on essential organs.
Antitumor agents work in the same way as anticancer agents.
Plant used as remedy:
Ageratum conyzoides, Anthemis nobilis, Asclepias currassavica, Azadirachta indica,
Bambusa arundinacea, Cassia auriculata, Catharanthus roseus, Cayratia carnosa, Ceiba
pentandra, Citrullus colocynthis, Excoecaria agallocha, Ficus racemosa, Flacourtia
jangomas, Garcinia indica, Kaempferia rotunda, Messua ferrea, Mirabilis jalapa,
Momordica charantia, Moringa oleifera, Mucuna pruriens, Phyllanthus niruri,
Tamarindus indicus, Urtica dioca, Withania somnifera, Zanthoxylum armatum.
4.28 Antiulcer:
Ulcer is caused by peptic ulceration that involves the stomach, duodenum, and lower
oseophagus. Ulcers are caused by Helicobacter pylori infections and are treated with a
combination treatment that incorporates antibiotic therapy with gastric acid suppression.
Antiulcer drugs are a class of drugs used to treat ulcers in the stomach and the upper part
of the small intestine. The objectives of antiulcers are relief of pain, promotion of ulcer
healing and prevention of recurrence and complication. The agents used for treatment of
ulcers are: (i) acid neutralizing agents that are basic in nature and neutralize acid in the
lumen. (ii) proton pump inhibitor that block the secretion of gastric acid by the gastric
parietal cells inhibiting the secretion of gastric acid. (iii) ulcer insulators does not inhibit
gastric acid but rather react with the existing stomach acid to form a thick coating that
covers the surface of an ulcer protecting the open area from further damage.
Plants used as remedy:
Achyranthes aspera, Aegle marmelos, Amaranthus hybridus, Azadirachta indica,
Baliospermum montanum, Berberis aristata, Boswellia serrata, Calophyllum inophyllum,
Cassia occidentalis, Coscinium fenestratum, Datura metal, Datura stramonuim,
Emblica officinalis, Ficus hispida, Ficus microcarpa, Garcinia indica, Gentiana kurroo,
Gloriosa superba, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Gymnema sylvestre, Hemidesmus indicus,
Holarrhena antidysenterica, Hypericum perforatum, Maytenus aquifolium, Mesua ferrea,
Morinda tomentose, Phyla nodiflora, Plumbago zeylanica, Polygonatum cirrhifolium,
Pueraria tuberosa, Rubia cordifolia, Santalum album, Saraca asoca, Sarcostigma kleinii,
Schliechera oleosa, Semecarpus anacardium, Shorea robusta, Solanum nigrum, Streblus
asper, Strychnos potatorum, Symplocos racemosus, Syzygium cumini, Terminalia arjuna,
Terminalia chebula, Terminalia crenulata, Terminalia paniculata, Tribulus terrestris,
Tylophora indica, Valeriana jatamansi, Verbena officinalis.
4.29 Antidiabetic:
Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia resulting from
defects in insulin secretion, insulin action or both. The lock and key binding of insulin to
the insulin receptors fails to initiate the intercellular signaling cascade that results both in
glycosis and in synthesis of the carbohydrate reserve molecule glycogen from glucose. To
compensate this down regulating of signaling pathway the body secretes greater amount
of insulin. As a result of this over burdening the insulin secreting cells of the pancreas
eventually become exhausted and cease to function. Anti-diabetics function in different
ways. They may be substances that stimulate secretion of insulin, may be insulin
sensitizers, biguanides, inhibitors of carbohydrate absorption and inhibitors of fat
absorption.
Plants used as remedy:
Abroma augusta, Achyranthes aspera, Aconitum falconeri, Aconitum heterophyllum;
Adiantum incisum, Aegle marmelos, Ageratum conyzoides, Azadirachta indica, Bixa
orellana, Butea monosperma, Chonemorpha fragrans, Chlorophytum arundinaceum,
Cichorium intybus, Citrullus colocynthis, Coccinia indica, Cocculus hirsutus,
Commiphora wightii, Desmodium gangeticum, Emblica officinalis, Ficus racemosa,
Flacourtia jangomas, Gymnema sylvestre, Helicteris isora, Hemidesmus indicus,
Hibiscus vitifolius, Madhuca indica, Mirabilis jalapa, Picrorhiza scrophula, Pilocarpus
jaborandi, Phyllanthus niruri, Polygala arvensis, Pongamia pinnata, Portulaca
oleracea, Pterocarpus marsupium, Premna corymbosa, Pseudarthria viscida, Rotula
aquatica, Rubia cordifolia, Salacia reticulata, Syzygium cumini, Syzygium jambos,
Terminalia arjuna, Terminalia chebula.
4.30 Diuretic:
Diuresis means increase in urine volume with loss of solute and water. Agents that
increase the rate of the urine formation are called diuretics. The primary function of these
drugs is maintenance of normal volume and composition of the body fluid hence they act
on the kidney. Most of the diuretics act mainly by blocking tubular reabsorption of
sodium at a particular site along the nephrons. Diuretics are mainly used in strangury that
may be caused by edema due to cardiac failure, renal diseases and cirrhosis of liver an in
the treatment of hypertension. They are usually combined with a demulcent to sooth any
irritation due to acids or gravel. Diuretic can also be used in the treatment of backache,
prostatitis, sciatic, kidney stones, bladder ache, gonorrhea, and water retention
Plants used as remedy:
Abutilon indicum, Aconitum atrox, Amaranthus spinosus, Ammania baccifera, Biophytum
sensitivum, Blumea fistulosa, Boerrhavia diffusa, Calophyllum inophyllum, Canthium
parviflorum, Cardiospermum halicacabum, Cayratia carnosa, Curculigo orchiodes,
Diospyros malabarica, Dolichos biflorus, Erythrina indica, Flacourtia indica, Haldinia
cordifolia, Heliotropium indicum, Ipomoea sepiaria, Merremia emarginata, Nelumbo
nucifera, Pedalium murex, Phyllanthus amarus, Polygonatum verticillatum, Portulaca
oleracea, Prunus cerasoides, Rotula aquatica, Salvadora persica, Securinega
leucopyrus, Tragia involucrate, Tribulus terrestris, Terminalia paniculata, Thespesia
populnea, Tragia involucrata, Trigonella foenum-graecum, Woodfordia fruticosa,
Zanthoxylum armatum .
4.31 Antihypertension:
Hypertension is defined as elevation of arterial blood pressure. Hypertension is a major
factor for coronary artery disease and the most important risk factor for stroke.
Hypertension is a multifactorial disease and is categorized as primary and secondary.
Primary hypertension can be hereditary or can be caused by increased fluid volume, renal
Na+ transport deficiency, increased vascular tone and thickness, sympathetic nervous
system hyperactivity, chronic stress, obesity, excess or deficiency of minerals, alcohol
etc. Secondary hypertension may be caused by renal, endocrine and neurological
abnormalities, drug induced and cardiovascular structural defects. Untreated hypertension
generally has no symptoms hence it’s a silent killer.
Plants used as remedy:
Achillea millefolium, Allium sativa, Anona reticulate, Asparagus racemosa, Bixa
orellana, Celastrus paniculata, Cissampelos parreira, Coleus forskohlii, Commiphora
mukul, Cyperus rotundus, Dolichos biflorus, Emblica officinalis, Evolvulus alsinoides,
Hemidesmus indicus, Inula racemosa, Mangifera indica, Momordica charantia,
Phyllanthus niruri, Rauvolfia serpentina, Solanum surattense, Solanum xanthocarpum,
Terminalia arjuna, Tribulus terrestris, Withania somnifera, Wrightia tinctoria.
4.32 Cardioprotective:
Almost anything that causes the heart to increase its workload for a prolonged period or
produces anatomic damage that makes it more difficult for the heart to function leads to
cardiac disorder. Cardiac disorders manifest itself in various forms. Primary heart muscle
diseases and coronary artery disease causes diminishing of the force of contraction of the
ventricles. Mechanical failure in the filling the ventricles during diastole occur due to
narrowing of the mitral valve opening and accumulation of fluid in the pericardium.
Narrowing and obstruction of aortic valve and incomplete closure of aortic valve causes
overload of the ventricles during systole. These causes dilation of the ventricles, increase
in the mass of cardiac muscle, increase in the activity of sympathetic nervous system and
activation of renin- angiotensin system.
Cardiac glycosides causes increase in the force and velocity of cardiac contractions and
decrease in the heart rate which results in increased cardiac out put and increased renal
perfusion therefore increased fluid elimination. Vasodilators decreases preload through
venodilation and decreases after load through arteriolar dilation. Angiotensin converting
enzyme inhibitors leads to (i) decreased peripheral resistance which in turn decreases
afterload, (ii) decreased salt and water retention leading to decreased preload (iii)
increased kinin activity which leads to increased vasodilation and (iv) decreased
sympathetic activity by decreased angiotensin mediated norpinephrine release.
Plants used as remedy:
Abelmoschus moschatus, Adonis aestivalis, Alpinia galangal, Alstonia scholaris,
Argyreia nervosa, Aristolochia indica, Boerrhavia diffusa, Buchanania lanzan, Cassia
tora, Celastrus paniculata, Centella asiatica, Cichorium intybus, Cinnamomum
camphora, Cissampelos pareira, Cleome viscose, Coleus forskohlii, Crataegus
oxyacantha, Delphinium denudatum, Desmodium gangeticum, Gardenia gummifera,
Hiptage benghalensis, Hyoscyamus niger, Jasminum auriculatum, Limonia acidissima,
Nelumbo nucifera, Nepeta hindustana, Oroxylum indicum, Phoenix pulsilla, Premna
corymbosa, Sassurea lappa, Semecarpus anacardium, Solanum surattense, Taraxacum
officinalis, Valeriana officinalis, Vetiveria zizannioides, Vitex negundo.
4.33 Purgative:
A substance used to cleanse or purge especially causing the immediate evacuation of the
bowel. Purgatives cause massive, explosive bowel movements. This function is
frequently accompanied by severe cramps and abdominal pain, and can be harmful to the
patient. Purgatives are to be used with extreme caution. These are usually combined with
carminatives to reduce griping. They produce evacuation of the contents of the intestinal
canal by increasing secretion along the tract, by exciting peristaltic action.
Plants used as remedy:
Alangium salvifolium, Aristolochia indica, Asclepias curassavica, Baliospermum
montanum, Baringtonia acutangula, Cassia fistula, Cassia occidentalis, Cordia
dichotoma, Ficus religiosa, Hydnocarpus laurifolia, Lagenaria siceraria, Michelia
champaca, Mimusops elengi, Operculina turpethum, Pergularia daemia, Salvadora
persica, Samadera indica, Schleichera oleosa, Schrebera swietenoides, Thalictrum
foliolosum, Tylophora indica, Ricinus communis, Zanthoxylum rhetsa.
4.34 Laxative:
Laxatives promote bowel action by stimulating evacuation of the bowels. Laxatives can
cause retention of fluid in the colonic content by inhibit electrolyte and water absorption
from the colon by direct or indirect mechanism. Laxative may enhance the motility of the
colon. They also cause looseness or relaxation of intestinal muscles. A laxative can cause
cramping hence should be used with care. Usually they can be used in short term along
with long term diet and lifestyle correction.
Plants used as remedy:
Abutilon indicum, Andrographis paniculata, Carthamus tinctorius, Cassia fistula, Cassia
tora, Cissus quadrangularis, Euphorbia thymifolia, Ficus hispida, Homonoia riparia,
Phoenix pulsilla, Picrorhiza kurooa, Picrorhiza scrophula, Pueraria tuberosa, Solanum
nigrum, Tamarindus indicus, Trichosanthes lobata.
4.35 Carminative:
These herbs have a settling effect on the gut wall and ease pains. They contain volatile
oils which stimulate the expulsion from the gastrointestinal tract. Carminatives also
increase the tone of the musculature and stimulate peristalsis.
Plants used as remedy:
Abies spectabilis, Acorus calamus, Ageratum conyzoides, Aquilaria agallocha, Betula
utilis, Cedrus deodara, Citrullus colocynthis, Chonemorpha fragrans, Colchicum
luteumew, Curcuma zedoaria, Cyperus rotundus, Ferula asafetida, Leucas aspera,
Merremia emarginata, Nepeta hindustana, Nigella sativa, Pedalium murex, Piper
brachystachyum, Plumbago indica, Oroxylum indicum, Saussurea lappa, Solanum
indicum Solena amplexicaulis, Trichosanthes tricus.
4.36 Digestive:
It is agents that stimulates or strengthen the activity of the stomach. They effect solution
(digestion) of food in the alimentary canal. They can be used as tonic to improve the
appetite and digestive processes.
Plants used as remedy:
Allophyllus serratus, Andrographis paniculata, Artemisia niligirica, Blumea lacera,
Callicarpa macrophylla, Capparis decidua, Celastrus paniculata, Cleome viscosa,
Delphinium denudatum, Embelia ribes, Enicostemma axillare, Flacourtia indica,
Gentiana kurooa, Hedyotis corymbosa, Limnophila aromatica, Moringa oleifera,
Nardostachys jatamansi, Prunus cerasoides, Pseudarthria viscida, Saussurea lappa,
Schrebera swieteniodes, Semecarpus anacardium, Solanum indicum, Solanum nigrum
Taraxacum officinale, Vigna radiate var sublobata.
4.37 Stomachic:
These are those herbs that stimulate and strengthen the functions of the stomach. They
promote and improve digestion and appetite and are usually bitter in flavor. They also
check fermentation and dispel accumulation of flatus.
Plants used as remedy:
Achyranthes aspera, Aconitum heterophyllum, Aegle marmelos, Angelica glauca,
Buchanania lanzan, Carissa carandas, Crataeva nurvala, Coscinum fenestratum,
Gmelina arborea, Hedychium spicatum, Mangifera indica, Mesua ferrea, Murraya
paniculata, Phyla nodiflora, Phyllanthus amaras, Phyllanthus niruri, Portulaca
oleracea, Ocimum sanctum, Ophiorrhiza mungos, Salacia reticulata, Sida cordifolia,
Spondias pinnata, Solanum xanthocarpum, Stereospermum colais, Swertia chirayata,
Tagetes minuta, Valeriana officinalis, Zanthoxylum rhetsa.
4.38 Acne:
Acne is a skin problem that consists of mild to severe outbreaks of pimples and cysts -
mainly on the face, but also on the back, arms and chest. Acne can cause a number of
different types of spots. They may be blackheads that are caused by a blockage of the
pores, which get their dark color through excess skin pigment or whiteheads that occur
near the surface of the skin when excess sebum gets trapped inside the follicle. In more
severe "inflammatory acne", cysts develop beneath the skin's surface. These acne cysts
can rupture, spreading the infection into nearby skin tissue. This can result in scarring.
Anti-acne can be an antibiotic which will kill the germs or it may be an agent that will
dry out the skin and encourage it to shed the surface layer of dead skin. Medication may
have the property to reduce the amount of oil being produced or to reduce the amount of
androgen in the body.
Plants used as remedy:
Arctium lappa, Artemisia pallens, Azadirachta indica, Betula utilis, Capparis deciduas,
Cassia siamea, Cinnamomum camphora, Curcuma aromatica, Curcuma longa, Ocimum
sanctum, Plumbago zeylanica, Pterocarpus santalinus, Santalum album, Saponaria
officinalis, Taraxacum officinale, Viola tricolor.
4.39 Psoriasis:
4.40 Eczema:
Eczema is a group of skin conditions that cause skin to become irritated. There are many
forms of eczema, but atopic eczema is the most common form however may be caused by
a difference in the way a person's immune system reacts to things. Skin allergies may be
involved in some forms of eczema. Eczema usually breaks out where the elbow bends;
on the backs of the knees, ankles, and wrists; and on the face, neck, and upper chest -
although any part of the body can be affected. At first your skin may feel hot and itchy.
Then, if you scratch, your skin may become red, inflamed, or blistered.
7. Conclusion:
Varied climatic and topographical conditions prevailing in India has bestowed upon it a
rich and diverse flora which is responsible for the richness and uniqueness of medicinal
plants. Numerous wild plants growing in Indian forest are used as folklore medicines to
prevent or cure several diseases. Medicinal plants have a potential in today’s synthetic
era, as a number of synthetic drugs are becoming resistant. A number of novel plant
derived substances have entered into Western drug market. Clinical plant based research
has made particularly rewarding progress in the important fields of anticancer and
antimalarial. Medicinal plants are important for pharmacological research and drug
development, not only when plant constituents are used directly as therapeutic agents but
also when they are used as basic material for the synthesis of drugs or as model for
pharmacologically active compounds. According to one estimate only 20% of the plant
flora has been studied and 60%of synthetic medicines owe their origin to plants. Ancient
knowledge coupled with scientific principles can come to the forefront and provide us
with powerful remedies to eradicate the diseases.
Exploration for forest based plant products for new pharmaceuticals and the demand for
medicinal plants are increasing in both developing and developed countries. In addition
to purified plant derived drugs there is an enormous market for crude herbal medicines.
As a result there is resurgence in the trade of herbal medicines. India, with its floral
diversity, stands next to China in global trade of medicinal plants as it shares along with
China 40% of the world biodiversity. Thus there is an enormous scope for India to
emerge as a major player in the global market of plant based medicines.
8. Reference:
Achuthan CR; Padikkala J; Jose Padikkala, (1997) To stimulate the functional activity
of the stomach, promote digestion and relieve pain. Indian Journal of Clinical
Biochemistry. 12(1): 55-8
Aditya Purohit R. K. Maikhuri K. S. Rao and S. Nautiyal,( 2001), Impact of bark
removal on survival of Taxus baccata L. (Himalayan yew) in Nanda Devi Biosphere
Reserve, Garhwal Himalaya, India, . CURRENT SCIENCE, VOL. 81, NO. 5, 586.
Atta-ur-Rahman, Nasreen A, Akhtar F, Shekhani MS, Clardy J, Parvez M,
Choudhary MI. (1997), Antifungal diterpenoid alkaloids from Delphinium denudatum.:
J Nat Prod. 60(5):472-4.
Atta-ur-Rahman and M. lqbal Choudhary(1999) Recent studies on bioactive
natural products, Pure Appl. Chem., Vol. 71, No. 6, pp. 1079±1081,.Printed in Great
Britain.
A. Prakasam, S. Sethupathy, K.V. Pugalendi. (2003), Effect of Casearia esculenta
root extract on blood glucose and plasma antioxidant status in streptozotocin diabetic
rats. Pol. J. Pharmacol., 55, 43–49.
Agarwal SK, Singh SS, Verma S, Kumar S. (2000), Antifungal activity of
anthraquinone derivatives from Rheum emodi. J Ethnopharmacol. 72(1-2):43-6.
Baskar Rajan G., Ramesh P.T., Sagaya Alfred R., and Chezhiyan N., Antidisease
Properties of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants ( check Indian drugs)
Bersani-Amado CA, Massao LB, Baggio SR, Johanson L, Albiero AL, Kimura
E.,(2000), Antiulcer effectiveness of Maytenus aquifolium spray dried extract.,
Phytother Res.Nov;14(7):543-5.
Burkill, H.M. (1985), The useful plants of West Tropical Africa. Vol .I . Royal Botanic
Garden, Kew, UK 960 p
Caroballo. A., Caraballo. B. and Rodrigeuz-Acosta. A., (2004), Preliminary
assessment of medicinal plants used as Antimalarial in the southeastern Venezuelan
Amazon, Revista da Sociedade Brasileira de Medicina Tropical 37(2): 186-188
Chakraborty A., Devi R. K. B., Rita S., Sharatchandra Kh., Singh Th. I. (2004)
Preliminary studies on antiinflammatory and analgesic activities of Spilanthes acmella in
experimental animal models. Indian J Pharmacol 36 (3)148-150
Chakraborty S, Roy M, Taraphdar A.K, Bhattacharya R.K, Cytotoxic effect of root
extract of Tiliacora racemosa and oil of Semecarpus anacardium nut in human tumour
cells, Phytotherapy Research 18 (8): 595- 600.
Chaurasia O.P., Ballabh Basant and Raut B., Indian Army and Green Governance:
Conserving Medicinal Plants of Ladakh Himalaya, Field Research Laboratory, Leh-
Ladakh.
Cutler .S. J., Cutler .H.G., (2000), Biologically Active Natural Products :
Pharmaceuticals., CRC Press, USA.
De Souza, N.J. (1991), Coleus forskohlii Briq. – The Indian plant source for forskohlin.
Recent advances in medical, aromatic & spice crops, (ed: S.P. Raychaudhuri). Today and
Tomorrow's Printers and Publishers, New Delhi , India . Vol I:83-91
Dubey MP, Srimal RC, Nityanand S, et al. (1981) Pharmacological studies on
coleonol, a hypotensive diterpene from Coleus forskohlii. J Ethnopharmacol.;3:1–13.
FAO Corporate Documentary Repository (2004): Status of Medicinal Plants in
India, State Of Forest Genetic Resources Consevation and Management in India.
Farooqui A.A. and Sreeramu B.S., (2001), Cultivation of Medicinal And Aromatic
Crops, Universities Press ( India) Ltd, 3-5-819 Hyderguda, Hyderabad 500 029.
Gholap S., Kar A. (2003)Effects of Inula racemosa root and Gymnema sylvestre leaf
extracts in the regulation of corticosteroid induced diabetes mellitus: involvement of
thyroid hormones. Print ISSN: 0031-7144 | Electronic ISSN: 0031-7144: 58( 6) 413
-415
GonzalezFG,PortelaTY,StippEJ,DiStasiLC.(2001) Antiulcerogenic and analgesic
effects of Maytenus aquifolium, Sorocea bomplandii and Zolernia
ilicifolia.,JEthnopharmacol.Sep;77(1):41-7.
Grover J.K, Yadav S, Vats V ( 2002), Medicinal Plants of India with Antidiabetic
potential; J. Ethnopharmacol. 81 (1): 81-100.
Hindu Folio, (2000), Indian Health Traditions, Source: FRLHT
Hoareau Lucy and Da. Silva. Edgar J., (1999)., Medicinal Plants: a re- emerging
health aid., Electronic Journal of Biotechnology (ISSN:0717-3458), Vol 2.
Horrobin D.F. and Lapinskas P., (1998), Plants for Food and Medicine, pp 75- 81,
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Jain S. K. (1987), “Endangered Species of Medicinal Herbs in India”, Medicinal
herbs in Indian Life, 16 (1) pp 44-53.
Jain S. K. (2000), Global Resurgence of Ethnomedicobotany- The Indian Scene, J. Trop.
Med. Plants. Vol 1.
Janaki S, Vijayasekaran V (1998) Antifungal activities of Aglaia roxburghiana (W&A)
var beddomei, Biomedicine: 18 (2): 86-9
Janaki S, Vijayasekaran V, Viswanathan S, Balakrishna K:(1999) Anti-inflammatory
activity of Aglaia roxburghiana var. beddomei extract and triterpenes roxburghiadiol
Aand B, J Ethnopharmacol 67(1): 45-51.
Jassim S.A.A. and Naji M.A. (2003), Novel antiviral agent: a medicinal plant
perspective, Journal of Applied Microbiology, 95(3): 412
Jesse J, Mohseni M, and Shah N.(1997), Medicinal Attributes of Allium sativa –
Garlic, Wilkes University, Wilkes- Barre, PA.
Joshi . S.P, 2000, Medicinal plants, Oxford and IBH Publishing Co.Pvt. Ltd., New
Delhi.
Kawaguchi Yuji, (1999). Traditional medicine: its contribution to human health
development: Kobe Centre, Kobe, Japan
Khan. T, Ahamd. W, Bashir. S, Iqbal. Z, Ahmad. B, Ahmad. M, Irfan. M and
Shaheen. F, (2003), Biological and Pharmacological Properties of Abroma augusta .L.
Seed Oil, Pakistan Journal of Biological Sciences 6(13): 1142-1144.
Kishore N., Dubey N. K., Chansouria J. P. N. (2001) Antimycotic activity of the
essential oil of Artemisia nilagirica , Flavour and Fragrance Journal: 16 (1) 61 - 63
Konishi T, Takasaki M, Tokuda H, Kiyosawa S, Konoshima T. (1998); Antitumor
promoting activity of diterpenes from Excoecaria agallocha, Boil Pharm Bull 21(9): 993-
996.
M. Halim Eshrat, (2003), Effect of Cocccinia indica (L) and Abroma augusta (L) on
glycemia , lipid profile and on indicators of end organ damage in Streptozotocin induced
Diabetic rats, Indian journal of Clinical Biochemistry;18 (2) 54-63
Mali P.C, Ansari A.S, Chaturvedi M(2002) Antifertility effect of chronically
administered Martynia annua root extract on male rats; J Ethnopharmacol 82(2-3): 61-
67.
Masud Rana A.Y.K.M, Khanum.J.A, and Asad-Ud- Daula .M, (2004), Antineoplastic
Screening of Some Medicinal Plants Against Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma in Mice, J. Med
Sci., 4(2): 142-145.
Masayuki Yoshikawa, Hiroshi Shimoda, Norihisa Nishida, Miki Takada and Hisashi
Matsuda(2002), Salacia reticulata and Its Polyphenolic Constituents with Lipase
Inhibitory and Lipolytic Activities Have Mild Antiobesity Effects in Rats: J. Nutr.
132:1819-1824
Misra L N et al. (1994), Variability of the chemical composition of the essential oil of
Coleus forskohlii genotypes. J. Essential Oils Res. 6:243- 247
Mohamed Shafi, Nambiar P , GeethaM.K., Clery Robin A, Sarma Y R, Veena S
S.(2004) Composition and Antifungal Activity of the Oil of Artemisia nilagirica (Clarke)
Pamp, Journal of Essential Oil Research: JEOR
Mudappa A and Oomemen S (1998) “Need to Retard: Problems and Prospects of
India’s Medicinal Plants in Trade: Current Understanding”, Amruth, FRLHT, Dr. Ved, 2
(3), Bangalore.
Nagalakshimi MA, Thangadurai D, Pulliah T. (2003), In-vitro antimicrobial efficacy
of leaf essential oils of Chukrasia tabularis Adr Juss and Melia dubia, Phytother Res; 17
(4): 414-6
Nandha Kumar R, Vishwanathan H, Suresh T, Mohan PS. Antibacterial activity of
Mappia foetida leaves and stem.
Department of Chemistry, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641 046, India
Natarajan.V., Venugopal.P.V, and Menon.T., (2003), Effect of Azadirachta indica
(Neem) on the Growth Pattern of Dermatophytes, Indian Journal of Medicinal
Microbiology 21(2):98-101.
Panwar, H.S., M.M. Nauriyal, and H.C. Joshi. (1979). In vitro screening of certain
indigenous plants for their antimycotic activity., Veterinary Research Bulletin 2(2): 164-
167
Parrotta. J.A. (2001). Healing plants of Peninsular India, CABI Publishing,
Wellington, UK & New York. 917p.
Peng ZF, Strack D, Baumert A, Subramaniam R, Goh NK, Chia TF, Tan SN, Chia
LS.(2003) Antioxidant flavonoids from leaves of Polygonum hydropiper L.
Phytochemistry.62(2):219-28.
Prakash AO, Saxena V, Shukla S, Mathur R.(1985), Contraceptive potency of
Pueraria tuberosa D.C. and its hormonal status. Acta Eur Fertil. 16(1):59-65
Puri D. (2001) The insulinotropic activity of a Nepalese medicinal plant
Biophytumsensitivum: preliminary experimental study. J Ethnopharmacol.78(1):89-93.
Rajasekharan P.E. and Ganeshan S. (2002) Conservation of Medicinal Plants
Biodiversity--- An Indian Perspective, J. Trop. Med. Plants 3 (1)
Ravishankara MN, Shrivastava N, Padh H, Rajani M.( 2002): Evaluation of
antioxidant properties of root bark of Hemidesmus indicus R.Br. ( Anantmul).,
Phytomedicine 9(2): 153-60.
Saeed. M, Arshad. M, Ahmad. M, Ahmad E and Ishaque .M, (2004),
Ethnophytotherpies for the Treatment of Various Diseases by Local People of Selected
Areas of NWFP( Pakistan), Pakistan Journal of Biological Sciences 7(7): 1104-1108
Scott Luper, ND (1999), A Review of Plants Used in the Treatment of Liver Disease:
Part Two, Alternative Med Rev; 4(3): 178-189.
Symes C, (1883),Botanical Medicine Monographs and Sundry, American Journal
of Pharmacy, Volume 55, #6
Seth S.D., ( 2004), Textbook of Pharmacology, Second Edition, Reed Elsevier India
Private Limited., New Delhi.
Singh GB, Singh S, Bani S, Malhotra S. (1990), Hypotensive action of a Coscinium
fenestratum stem extract. J Ethnopharmacol, 30(2):151-5.
Sinha S, Murugesan T, Maiti K, Gayen JR, Pal B, Pal M, Saha BP. (2001),
Antibacterial activity of Bergenia ciliata rhizome: Fitoterapia. 72(5):550-2.
Sinha S, Murugesan T, Maiti K, Gayen JR, Pal M, Saha BP. (2001), Evaluation of
anti-inflammatory potential of Bergenia ciliata Sternb. rhizome extract in rats: J Pharm
Pharmacol.53(2):193-6.
Srimal RC, Sharma SC, Tandon JS (1984), Anti-inflammatory and other
pharmacological effects of Hedychium spicatum (Buch-Hem) Indian Journal of
Pharmacology., Vol 16 (3): 143-14
Syed Ziaurrahman, Khan Rahat Ali, Kumar Anil. (2000), A study of Delphinium
denudatum Wall in moderately induced Morphine dependence. 6th Internet World
Congress for Biomedical Sciences
Taraphdar A.K, Roy Madhumita and Bhattacharya R.K, (2001), Natural products as
inducers of apoptosis: Implication for cancer therapy and prevention: Current Science 80
(11).
Taylor L, (2004), Healing Power of Rainforest Herbs, Square One Publishers Inc.
Tilak JC, Adhikari S, Devasagayam TPA, (2004), Antioxidant propertiesof Plumbago
zeylanica, an Indian medicinal plant and its active ingredient plumbagin., Redox Report 9
(4) pp219-227.
Venukumar MR, Latha MS. (2002), Antioxidant effect of Coscinium fenestratum in
carbon tetrachloride treated rats, Indian J Physiol Pharmacol. 46(2):223-8.
Vijayan.P, Vinod Kumar S, Dhanaraj S.A, Mukherjee P.K, Suresh B, (2003);In vitro
cytotoxicity and antitumor properties of Hypericum mysorense and Hypericum patulum:
Phytother Res 17(8): 952-956.
Vijayan.P,Raghu.C,Ashok.G, Dhanaraj S.A, Suresh B, (2004); Antiviral activity of
medicinal plants of Nilgiris; Indian .J. Med Res 120 pp 24-29
Yadav S.B. and Tripathi Vyasji, Chemical Screening of Cuscuta reflexa and its
Antioxidant Activity, Dept of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Banaras Hindu University,
Varanasi- 221 005.
World Health Organization. ( 1996), Improving Access to Quality Care in Family
Planning. Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use. Geneva: World Health
Organization.