A comprehensive review on Bhallataka from classical texts of Ayurveda

Bhallataka (Semecarpus anacardium Linn.), is one of the important medicinal plant used in Ayurveda. Classical texts of Ayurveda cited its therapeutic efficacy in numerous disease conditions as a single drug and as an ingredient of compound formulations. The present review provides a single hand information collected from classical Ayurvedic literatures on the drug “Bhallataka”, being compiled from 13 Nighantus (lexicons), 16 Samhita/Chikitsa granthas (compendia of Ayurveda) and Rasa granthas (Compendia related to Rasashastra). It is observed that, more than 80 synonyms were coined for describing the morphological and pharmacological characters of Bhallataka. Different parts of Bhallataka are attributed with different pharmacological properties and actions. There is some difference of opinion regarding the properties and actions in the later nighantus. It is also used as an ingredient of different compound formulations which were used in 23 different dosage forms, where Taila (Oil), Ghrita (Ghee), Churna (Powder), Vati (Tablet) and Kashaya (Decoction) are found to be maximum number. Majority of formulations containing Bhallataka are indicated in Arsha (Haemorrhoids), Kushtha (Skin diseases), Gulma (Lump), Grahani (derangement of agni situated in grahani), Prameha (Polyuria) and Vataroga (Diseases of vata origin). Since the drug is mentioned under semipoisonous group of drugs, judicious use of Bhallataka, after proper processing is advocated. Specific collection and storage practices, antidotes and dietary habits to be followed during Bhallataka administration to prevent possible adverse effects are also documented in classical texts of Ayurveda

Therapeutic role of vegetables in Respiratory Diseases – A critical review from Ayurvedic classics.

The concept of Pathya (wholesome diet) is an unique contribution of Ayurveda, which plays an important role in prevention and management of many diseases. “Shakavarga”, a category under dietetics in classical texts of Ayurveda enlisted different vegetables with their properties and indications in different disease conditions. These vegetables can be prescribed as Pathya (wholesome diet) in clinical practice. In the present review, plants described under Shakavarga, indicated as Pathya in different diseases related to Pranavaha Srotas (Respiratory system) were compiled from 15 different Ayurvedic classical texts. Critical analysis of the compiled data reveals that out of 332 vegetables described under Shakavarga, 44 are indicated in respiratory disease like Shvasa (Dyspnoea/Asthma), Kasa (Cough), Peenasa (Chronic rhinitis) and Hikka (Hiccup). Among them, botanical identity of 42 classical plants has been established and maximum number of vegetables belongs to the family cucurbitaceae (10) followed by solanaceae (4). Some of these vegetables have been reported for their various pharmacological activities related to prevention and management of diseases related to Pranavaha Srotas (Respiratory system). These vegetables are reported for their anti-inflammatory (16), antioxidant (14), anti-allergic (6) and antitussive (3) activities. The observed result may be helpful in use of vegetables as Pathya (wholesome diet) and planning further scientific studies about the efficacy of these plants on prevention as well as management of respiratory diseases