AROGYAPPACHA: KANI TRIBES' 'GINSENG' for health and vitality.
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: 鈥楢ROGYAPPACHA鈥� (TRICHOPUS ZEYLANICUS gaerin), THE 鈥楪INSENG鈥� OF KANI TRIBES OF AGASHYAR HILLS (KERALA) FOR EVER GREEN HEALH AND VITALITY
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
P. Pushpangadan, S. Rajasekharan, P.K. Ratheshkumar, C.R. Jawahar, V. Velayudhan Nair, N. Lakshmi, L. Sarada Amma
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: 鈥楢ROGYAPPACHA鈥� (TRICHOPUS ZEYLANICUS gaerin), THE 鈥楪INSENG鈥� OF KANI TRIBES OF AGASHYAR HILLS (KERALA) FOR EVER GREEN HEALH AND VITALITY
Year: 1988
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The article discusses 'Arogyappacha' (Trichopus zeylanicus), a plant endemic to the Agastyar hills of Kerala, which is utilized by the local Kani tribe as a health-enhancing food. It is likened to ginseng due to its reputed tonic effects that provide instant stamina and vitality. The Kani tribe relies on the unripe fruits of 'Arogyappacha' during long treks, asserting that consumption allows them to maintain energy and health without the need for regular food. The plant's identification and its potential benefits are explored through the authors' encounters with the tribe and a review of ancient Ayurvedic texts.
Ethnomedicinal Significance
During a trekking expedition to the Agastyar hills, the research team from the All India Coordinated Research Project of Ethnobiology noted the exceptional stamina of the Kani tribe men, who consumed small blackish fruits during their journey. Upon trying these fruits, the authors experienced an immediate surge of energy, prompting an interest in the botanical identity and traditional usage of the plant. 'Arogyappacha' was confirmed as Trichopus zeylanicus, and although its medicinal properties have not been extensively documented in Ayurveda, it bears similarities to descriptions of 'Varahi' found in Sushruta鈥檚 texts, suggesting potential rejuvenating and health-promoting effects. The Kani's traditional claims about the plant's efficacy in maintaining health call for further scientific examination.
Conclusion
The authors acknowledge the preliminary evidence supporting 'Arogyappacha's' antifatigue and spirit-boosting properties, yet emphasize the need for comprehensive research to validate the claims surrounding its various health benefits. They propose a balanced evaluation integrating modern scientific methods with Ayurvedic perspectives to understand the plant's pharmacological properties better. This investigation could lead to important findings relevant not only to traditional medicine but also in addressing contemporary health challenges. The initial findings suggest that 'Arogyappacha' may hold significant potential as a natural remedy and a focus for future healthcare solutions, including potentially combating diseases such as AIDS.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is 'Arogyappacha' and its significance to the Kani tribe?
'Arogyappacha' (Trichopus zeylanicus) is a wild plant used by the Kani tribe in Kerala for instant stamina, health, and vitality. They consume its unripe fruits to maintain energy during treks and claim it promotes long-term health and youthfulness.
How did the researchers discover the effects of 'Arogyappacha'?
During a trekking tour in the Agasthyar hills in 1987, researchers experienced fatigue. A Kani tribe member offered them the fruit of 'Arogyappacha', which revitalized them, prompting further interest in its medicinal properties.
What are the physical characteristics of 'Arogyappacha'?
'Arogyappacha' is a small perennial herb with slender stems and dark purple, triangular leaves. Its fruits are somewhat winged and triangular and are sweet when immature, becoming stony and unpalatable when ripe.
What are the planned investigations for 'Arogyappacha'?
Future investigations include phytochemical screening and pharmacological evaluation at the Regional Research Laboratory, Jammu, to isolate active principles and explore 'Arogyappacha's potential medicinal applications, particularly its anti-fatigue properties.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for 鈥淎ROGYAPPACHA: KANI TRIBES' 'GINSENG' for health and vitality.鈥�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Drug:
The term 'Drug' in the context of the study refers to substances that have medicinal properties. In this case, 'Arogyappacha' (Trichopus zeylanicus) is explored for its potential as a health-promoting tonic, similar to Ginseng, showcasing the plant's significance in enhancing stamina and vitality.
2) Ayurveda (膧yurveda, Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that emphasizes balance in the body, utilizing natural ingredients and holistic approaches. The study aims to integrate the traditional Ayurvedic understanding with modern scientific methods to evaluate the benefits of 'Arogyappacha' for health and wellness.
3) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological investigations focus on the effects and mechanisms of drugs. The research on 'Arogyappacha' includes pharmacological evaluation to establish its efficacy in promoting health, such as its antifatigue properties, laying groundwork for potential medicinal applications.
4) Varahi (Var膩h墨, V膩r膩h墨, V膩r膩hi):
In Ayurvedic texts, 'Varahi' is described as a divine drug highlighted for its health benefits. The researchers hypothesize that 'Arogyappacha' corresponds to 'Varahi' as documented by Sushruta, indicating the plant鈥檚 rejuvenating and vitality-promoting properties aligned with ancient wisdom.
5) Medicine:
Medicine in this context refers to the study and application of natural substances for healing purposes. 'Arogyappacha' is being evaluated not only for its nutritional benefits but also for possible medicinal applications, emphasizing the vital connection between traditional and contemporary medical practices.
6) Post:
The term 'Post' indicates a subsequent phase or action. In this document, it signifies the 'Post Graduate-cum-Research Centre in Ayurveda' where researchers are engaged in advanced investigation of traditional plants like 'Arogyappacha' to uncover their medicinal values scientifically.
7) Science (Scientific):
Science implies a systematic enterprise that builds and organizes knowledge in the form of testable explanations and predictions about the universe. This research into 'Arogyappacha' exemplifies the integration of scientific inquiry with traditional knowledge to match claims with tangible results.
8) Habitat:
Habitat refers to the natural environment where a species thrives. The text highlights the unique habitat of 'Arogyappacha' in the Agastyar hills of Kerala, underlining its ecological significance and the circumstances of its usage by the local 'Kani' tribes.
9) Siddha (Siddh膩):
Siddha is a form of traditional medicine from Southern India, rooted in ancient practices similar to Ayurveda. The mention of Siddha alongside Ayurveda emphasizes the rich heritage of Indian medicinal knowledge, noting the practices believed to stem from ancient sages like Agastya.
10) Rasa (Ras膩, Rasha):
Rasa in Ayurveda refers to taste or flavor, which plays a crucial role in assessing the therapeutic properties of a substance. The study aims to evaluate 'Arogyappacha' based on its 'Rasa', considering these intrinsic qualities in Ayurvedic pharmacology.
11) Guna (Gu峁嘺, G奴na):
Guna refers to the qualities or attributes of a substance in Ayurveda. Understanding the 'Guna' of 'Arogyappacha' is essential for its classification and therapeutic application, guiding practitioners in determining its compatibility with various doshic constitutions.
12) Sushruta-samhita (Su艣ruta-sa峁僪it膩):
The Susruta-samhita is a foundational text in Ayurvedic medicine authored by Sushruta, detailing surgical procedures and medicinal plants. The text's references imply the historical importance of 'Arogyappacha', possibly connecting it with ancient medicinal practices.
13) Phytochemical:
Phytochemical studies focus on the chemical compounds produced by plants that can have medicinal effects. The evaluation of 'Arogyappacha' involves phytochemical analysis to isolate potentially active principles responsible for its reported health benefits, supporting its traditional uses.
14) Rasashastra (Rasa-shastra, Rasa艣膩stra):
Rasa-shastra is the branch of Ayurveda dealing with the properties and uses of medicinal substances. This study aims to explore 'Arogyappacha' through the principles of Rasa-shastra, examining its therapeutic potentials and vibrational qualities impacting health.
15) Krishnasarpa (K峁涐梗峁嘺sarpa, Krishna-sarpa):
The term 'Krishnasarpa' is a Sanskrit phrase descriptive of a black cobra, used in context by Sushruta. This metaphor illustrates the distinct characteristics of 'Arogyappacha', aiming to enrich understanding of its unique properties as drawn from ancient text comparisons.
16) Pharmacology:
Pharmacology is the study of drug action and its effects on living systems. The research into 'Arogyappacha' includes pharmacological exploration to substantiate its health claims, thus ensuring its potential for safe and effective medicinal application.
17) Dravyaguna (Dravyagu峁嘺, Dravya-guna):
Dravya-guna is a criterion in Ayurvedic pharmacology referring to the properties of substances. Investigating 'Arogyappacha' through Dravya-guna will help elucidate its therapeutic applications and how it interacts with different body types and states.
18) Knowledge:
Knowledge encompasses the understanding and insights gained through study and experience. The research emphasizes the importance of traditional knowledge from the 'Kani' tribe, which is foundational for exploring the benefits of 'Arogyappacha' in modern medical contexts.
19) Tridosha (Trido峁, Tri-dosha):
Tridosha represents the three vital energies (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) in Ayurveda that define an individual's constitution. Assessing 'Arogyappacha' involves understanding its interactions with Tridosha to tailor its use for health optimization based on individual needs.
20) Shambhava (Sambhava, Sambhav膩, 艢膩mbhava, Sa峁僢hava):
Sambhava signifies the inherent potential of something to exist or manifest. In the context of the study, it indicates the promising attributes of 'Arogyappacha', suggesting that the plant can fulfill its medicinal potential as outlined by the Kani tribe.
21) Shadrasa (峁岣峳asa, 峁岣�-rasa, 峁岣峳as膩):
Shadrasa refers to the six tastes recognized in Ayurveda (sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent, astringent). These tastes play a crucial role in diet and health. Understanding the Shadrasa of 'Arogyappacha' contributes to its potential therapeutic utilization.
22) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiated describes a state of imbalance in the body's doshas, leading to disease. The research seeks to show how 'Arogyappacha' can assist in restoring balance among the doshas, promoting corrective health measures based on Ayurvedic principles.
23) Agastya (膧gastya):
Agastya is an iconic figure in Indian mythology and traditional medicine, often credited with imparting knowledge of Siddha and Ayurveda. The referencing of Agastya may indicate a lineage of ancient practices linked to the benefits attributed to 'Arogyappacha'.
24) Samhita (Sa峁僪it膩, Sa峁僪ita):
Samhita refers to a collection or compendium of texts, particularly in Ayurveda. The references to foundational Samhitas, such as Susruta-samhita, underscore the importance of historical texts in validating and guiding the study of medicinal plants like 'Arogyappacha'.
25) Shastra (艢膩stra):
Shastra signifies a systematic body of knowledge or science. In the context of this paper, it highlights the structured approach of Ayurveda and herbal medicine informing the study of traditional plants like 'Arogyappacha', reflecting rigorous principles of health care.
26) Lakshmi (Lak峁墨):
Lakshmi is a term associated with wealth, prosperity, and well-being. Its mention alongside the study suggests a broader cultural significance, where plants like 'Arogyappacha' may contribute to not just health, but holistic well-being and harmony in life.
27) Nirnaya (Nir峁嘺ya):
Nirnaya often means decisive or conclusive determination. Here, it emphasizes the importance of definitive findings from the research on 'Arogyappacha', looking to reach clear conclusions on its potential health benefits in both traditional and modern medicinal frameworks.
28) Dravya:
Dravya refers to substances or medicinal materials within Ayurvedic practice. Focusing on 'Arogyappacha', the research will explore its status as Dravya, considering its availability, application, and effectiveness aligned with Ayurvedic therapeutic systems.
29) Vaidya:
Vaidya refers to a practitioner of Ayurveda. The involvement of Vaidya reflects the study's commitment to combine traditional expertise with scientific analysis, ensuring a holistic approach to validating the medicinal properties of 'Arogyappacha' within authentic cultural practices.
30) Anjana (A帽jana, Anjan膩, A帽jan膩, 膧帽jana, Amjana, Anj膩na):
Anjana conveys brightness or a specific quality associated with enhancing health. Linking 'Anjana' to 'Arogyappacha' may reflect on the plant's perceived qualities, particularly in promoting vitality and energy, reinforcing its traditional reputation as a powerful food resource.
31) Vipaka (Vip膩ka):
Vipaka is the post-digestive taste of food substances in Ayurveda, integral in determining their overall effect on health. Investigating 'Arogyappacha's Vipaka will help comprehensively understand how it influences bodily processes and overall health benefits post-consumption.
32) Sharada (艢膩rad膩, 艢膩rada, 艢arad膩, S膩rad膩, S膩rada, Sarada, Sara-da):
Sarada means linked to purity and wellness, often represented in cultural contexts. Its inclusion suggests an acknowledgment of the importance of maintaining health and well-being through natural resources, such as 'Arogyappacha', thereby reinforcing traditional perspectives on health preservation.
33) Botany:
Botany is the scientific study of plants. This research integrates botanical studies to identify and classify 'Arogyappacha', emphasizing the importance of understanding plant biology and properties to unlock their potential uses in medicine.
34) Dosha (Dosa, Do峁, Dos膩, Do峁Ｄ�, 岣宱s膩):
Dosha denotes the three vital energies in Ayurvedic medicine that govern health. Understanding how 'Arogyappacha' interacts with individual doshic balances provides insight into its tailored therapeutic applications, following traditional Ayurvedic practices.
35) Pitta (P墨tta, Pi峁弓膩):
Pitta, one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, represents the energy associated with transformation and metabolism. Evaluating 'Arogyappacha's effects regarding Pitta can guide its use in restoring balance related to digestive and metabolic health.
36) Vata (V膩峁璦, Va峁璦, V膩ta, Va峁�):
Vata is one of the three fundamental doshas in Ayurveda, associated with movement and air. Investigating 'Arogyappacha' in context of Vata helps determine its characteristics and efficacy in addressing conditions linked to Vata imbalances, supporting holistic health practices.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: 鈥�AROGYAPPACHA: KANI TRIBES' 'GINSENG' for health and vitality.鈥�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Positive health, Pharmacological evaluation, Phyto-chemical screening, Chemical evaluation, Ayurvedic pharmacy, Traditional herbal practices, Ayurveda Classic, Kani tribe.