Taxonomic study of Kade-Chirayet in Pune and nearby districts
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Taxonomic study of an ayurvedic herb kade-chirayet from pune and neighbouring districts
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.
A. S. Upadhye, M. S. Kumbhojkar, D. K. Kulkarni
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Taxonomic study of an ayurvedic herb kade-chirayet from pune and neighbouring districts
Year: 1991
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The taxonomic study of the herb known as Kade-chirayet reveals the complexities in the identification of plant species within traditional medicine. This paper, authored by A. S. Upadhye, M. S. Kumbhojkars, and D. K. Kulkarni, presents a botanical identification of five distinct species commonly referred to as Kade-chirayet in certain regions of Western Maharashtra. The authors emphasize the significance of accurately identifying these herbs, as ambiguous nomenclature can lead to confusion among health practitioners and consumers. The study focuses on providing a detailed taxonomic account of these species, which include Swertia angustifolia, S. decussata, Exacum bicolor, Enicostemma littorale, and Andrographis paniculata.
Identification of Kade-Chirayet Species
One of the critical findings of this research is the identification of five plant species, all of which are used as tonic and febrifuge by local populations. Notably, Swertia decussata is predominantly sold as Kade-chirayet in local Pune markets. These plants belong to different families; the first four are members of the Gentianaceae family while Andrographis paniculata belongs to the Acanthaceae family. The study meticulously outlines the morphological characteristics, medicinal uses, and local names of each species, providing a clear taxonomy to resolve the confusion surrounding Kade-chirayet. A key for identification based on exomorphic traits is also presented, aiding in the recognition of all five species and facilitating their proper use in treatment regimens.
Conclusion
This taxonomic study significantly contributes to the botanical identification of Kade-chirayet species and clarifies their uses in traditional medicine. The detailed analysis of morphological traits, local names, and medicinal properties enhances the understanding of these plants among practitioners and encourages accurate application in medicinal practices. By providing a comprehensive key for identification, the study serves as a vital resource for herbalists and researchers, helping to consolidate knowledge of this important group of plants within the rich tapestry of India's folk medicinal systems. Ultimately, the authors express gratitude for the support received throughout their research, reinforcing the collaborative spirit of scientific inquiry.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Kade-Chirayet and why is it controversial?
Kade-Chirayet refers to five different plant species used in traditional medicine. The controversy arises due to the varied identity and use of these plants, leading to confusion among physicians and herbalists regarding their medicinal properties.
What are the five species identified as Kade-Chirayet?
The five species identified as Kade-Chirayet are Swertia angustifolia, Swertia decussata, Exacum bicolor, Enicostemma littorale, and Andrographis paniculata. The first four belong to the Gentianaceae family, while Andrographis paniculata is part of the Acanthaceae family.
What is the significance of the taxonomic study conducted?
This taxonomic study is significant as it provides a detailed botanical identification of these species, clarifying their medicinal uses and helping traditional practitioners correctly identify and utilize these herbs safely and effectively.
How are these plant species used in local medicine?
Locally, these plants are used as tonics and febrifuges. They serve various purposes, such as treating fevers, dysentery, debility, and other conditions, each with specific species offering different benefits based on traditional practices.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for 鈥淭axonomic study of Kade-Chirayet in Pune and nearby districts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:
In the context of this study, 'drug' refers to the herbal products derived from various species of plants known as Kade-chirayet. These plants are utilized in traditional medicine for their medicinal properties as tonic and febrifuge. The paper emphasizes the importance of accurately identifying these plants to ensure effective use in herbal treatments.
2) Bitter:
'Bitter' describes one of the primary taste profiles associated with the Kade-chirayet plants, particularly those in the Gentianaceae family. The bitterness can indicate the presence of certain active compounds that contribute to the therapeutic effects of these plants, often employed in folk medicine for various treatments including fevers and digestive issues.
3) Blood:
In this study, 'blood' relates to the medicinal uses of specific Kade-chirayet plants. Some species are identified as blood purifiers, indicating their use in traditional practices to detoxify or cleanse the blood. This highlights the role of botanical remedies in addressing issues related to blood health in local medicine.
4) Aushadhi (Au峁dhi, Aushadhin, Au峁dhin):
'Aushadhi' is a Sanskrit term referring to medicinal herbs or plants used in traditional Ayurvedic practices. It signifies the significance of these plants in ancient medicinal systems. The research embraces this concept, illustrating how local practitioners utilize various Kade-chirayet species in their herbal formulations for healing purposes.
5) Samgraha (Sa峁単raha, Sa峁僩raha, Sa峁僩r膩ha, Sangraha):
'Sangraha' translates to a compilation or collection. In this context, it relates to the 'Aushadhi Sangraha,' a reference mentioned in the study which details medicinal plants. The term underscores the organizational efforts to document and classify the medicinal uses of various herbs, ensuring knowledge preservation for future practitioners.
6) Science (Scientific):
'Science' refers to the systematic study and classification of herbs and their medicinal properties discussed in the paper. The taxonomic study of Kade-chirayet highlights the importance of scientific research in validating traditional knowledge, improving the reliability of herbal medicine, and ensuring proper use of plant species in therapeutic contexts.
7) Botany:
'Botany' is the scientific study of plants, which is foundational to the taxonomic research presented in this paper. The identification, classification, and medicinal application of Kade-chirayet species underscore the importance of botanical knowledge in traditional medicine and facilitating effective use of resources in healing practices.
8) Pala (Pal膩, P膩la):
'Pala,' derived from 'Naicha-pala,' is one of the vernacular names for a particular Kade-chirayet plant. The use of local names emphasizes the deep-rooted cultural connections and knowledge systems surrounding these plants. It illustrates how different species are recognized in their respective communities based on their medicinal properties.
9) Discussion:
'Discussion' refers to the section where the implications and applications of the research findings are analyzed. This part of the study reflects on the insights about the five Kade-chirayet species, their similarities, differences, and historical significance, facilitating a deeper understanding of their role in traditional medicine practices.
10) Medicine:
'Medicine' in this context refers to the practices and remedies derived from the Kade-chirayet plants. It encompasses the cultural knowledge of utilizing these herbs as healing agents. The study reflects on the integration of botanical properties into local medicinal systems, emphasizing the fusion of natural resources and health care.
11) Swelling:
'Swelling' relates to the medicinal characteristics noted for one or more Kade-chirayet plants. The paper mentions the application of these plants on swellings, linking to their anti-inflammatory properties. This usage suggests the comprehensive role these herbs play in addressing various health issues within traditional practices.
12) Debility:
'Debility' is mentioned in the context of the medicinal uses of Andrographis paniculata as a tonic. This term highlights the relevance of Kade-chirayet plants in treating states of weakness or fatigue, demonstrating their therapeutic value in local herbal medicine aimed at restoring energy and vitality.
13) Water:
'Water' is referenced in relation to the preparation of decoctions of Kade-chirayet plants for fever treatment. This highlights the conventional method of utilizing these herbs as infusions or brews, reaffirming the fundamental process of extracting medicinal properties from plants through water-based preparations for therapeutic use.
14) Kadu (Ka岣嵟�, K膩d奴):
'Kadu' is a local vernacular name for one of the Kade-chirayet species, specifically Swertia decussata. The use of this term shows the diversity of local nomenclature within broader regional herbal medicine practices. It also emphasizes the importance of understanding local dialects in accurately identifying and utilizing herbal resources.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: 鈥�Taxonomic study of Kade-Chirayet in Pune and nearby districts鈥�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Andrographis paniculata, Local people, Blood-purifier, Traditional medicine, Medicinal use, Local name, Plant identification, Herbal drug, Enicostemma Littorale, Taxonomic study, Western Maharashtra.