Some distinguishing features of a few strophanthus species
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Some distinguishing features of a few strophanthus species
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.
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Original source:
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Vikaramaditya, Manisha Sarkar, Rajat Rashmi, P.N Varma
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Some distinguishing features of a few strophanthus species
Year: 1995
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The article presents a study on various species of Strophanthus, a genus from the family Apocynaceae, which is native to tropical Africa and comprises around 30 species. Notably, Strophanthus seeds, particularly from S. kombe Oliver, are recognized for their glycosides, which possess therapeutic properties similar to the cardiac glycosides found in Digitalis. While S. kombe is the primary species used in medicine, other species like S. hispidus, S. gratus, and S. sarmentosus also contain relevant glycosides and can serve as substitutes or adulterants. The paper emphasizes the distinguishing features of several Strophanthus species, which are crucial for identification and therapeutic applications.
Strophanthus Glycosides and Their Therapeutic Use
One important aspect highlighted in the study is the presence of strophanthin in Strophanthus species, which serves as a cardiac stimulant. This compound elevates blood pressure and acts as a potent diuretic. Remarkably, strophanthus glycosides induce less gastrointestinal irritation compared to Digitalis and do not present cumulative effects, making them preferable in certain cardiac emergencies. However, a disadvantage noted is that these glycosides are more prone to degradation in the digestive system compared to those from Digitalis, which can impact their efficacy for oral therapy. Furthermore, S. gratus is identified as a potential biological standard for the assay of cardiac glycosides, underscoring its importance in clinical assessments.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the study provides valuable insights into the distinguishing features of several Strophanthus species, aiding in the differentiation among them for medicinal purposes. The presence of cardiac glycosides, particularly strophanthin, offers a therapeutic alternative to Digitalis, while also presenting unique challenges in administration due to their gastrointestinal stability. By compiling the characteristics of these species into a comparative framework, the research enhances our understanding of their botanical distinctions and clinical relevance in traditional and modern medicine.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the significance of the Strophanthus species?
Strophanthus species contain glycosides, comparable to those in Digitalis, but with less harmful physiological effects. They are used in medicine, primarily for cardiac issues, and some species serve as substitutes for Digitalis.
Which Strophanthus species is officially used in medicine?
Strophanthus kombe Oliver is the officially recognized species used in medicine for its active constituent, strophanthin, which serves as a cardiac stimulant and is recommended as a therapeutic substitute for Digitalis.
What are some distinguishing features of S. kombe Oliver?
S. kombe Oliver seeds are lanceolate in shape, grayish green to fawn, measuring 12-20 mm long, and have a silky sheen due to trichomes. They typically weigh between 3-4 grams for 100 seeds.
How does strophanthus compare to Digitalis in therapy?
Strophanthus is less irritating to the gastrointestinal tract than Digitalis and does not have cumulative effects. However, its glycosides break down more readily in the digestive tract, which can impact its therapeutic effectiveness.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Some distinguishing features of a few strophanthus species�. 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) Medicine:
Medicine refers to the field concerned with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases and the promotion of health. In this context, the Strophanthus species represent valuable medicinal plants, particularly for their cardiac glycosides, which serve as alternatives to Digitalis in treating heart conditions, showcasing their importance in herbal pharmacology.
2) Habitat:
Habitat pertains to the natural environment where specific species thrive. The Strophanthus plants primarily originate from tropical Africa, highlighting the ecological factors that influence their growth and the potential for sustainable harvesting. Understanding their habitat is vital for conservation and ensuring the availability of these medicinal resources.
3) Irritation:
Irritation relates to the physiological response of tissues to harmful stimuli, often causing discomfort or inflammation. The text notes that strophanthus causes less gastrointestinal irritation compared to Digitalis, making it a safer option for patients. This characteristic is crucial for the acceptance and effectiveness of medicinal treatments.
4) Science (Scientific):
Science is the systematic study of the natural world through observation and experimentation. The exploration of Strophanthus species and their chemical properties falls under the purview of pharmacognosy, a branch of science that examines medicinal plants. This scientific inquiry contributes to evidence-based medicine and the development of therapeutic agents.
5) Blood:
Blood is a vital fluid transporting oxygen and nutrients throughout the body, playing a crucial role in overall health. The strophanthus species, containing active compounds like strophanthin, influence blood pressure, serving as cardiac stimulants. Understanding their effects on blood circulation is essential for using these plants in cardiovascular therapies.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �Some distinguishing features of a few strophanthus species�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Natural habitat, Oral Therapy, Ancient Science of life, Cardiac glycoside.
Concepts being referred in other categories, contexts and sources.