In Search of Wound Healing Drugs: A Journey Through Ayurveda

Description of wound healing is a recent concern of modern surgery and medical therapeutics, but first evidences are available in ancient Indian system of medicine, namely Ayurveda in the name of Vrana (wounds) and Vranaropaka (wound healing drugs). It has been reported that in different classical Ayurvedic texts, about 164 medicinal plants, 24 metals and minerals and 18 animal products are described for their wound healing activity. The mechanism of the healing process and the selection of drugs from natural resources are very specific in Ayurveda, and some of these have been scientifically screened. Besides a single component of drug, many classical formulations either in the form of polyherbal or herbo-minerals have been cited in Ayurveda from time to time since pre-vedic era to recent modern time. Many traditional folkloric preparations of India were also later on incorporated in Ayurveda utilizing sources of some pockets of Ayurveda in different parts of the country. Chronological development of these drugs on the basis of physical, molecular and clinical parameters is elaborated vividly with some examples of experimentation like Curcuma longa, Pterocarpus santalinus, Cynodon dactylon and a composed formulation named Kshantak Malam

Clinical Study of 'Triphala' – A Well Known Phytomedicine from India

Triphala' is an age old commonly used Ayurvedic powdered preparation in Indian systems of medicine. This well known formulation is made by combining Terminalia chebula, Terminalia belarica and Emblica officinalis, in equal proportions based on the observation of Ayurvedic Formulary of India (AFI). The formulation is prescribed in the first line treatment of many aliments and is used as laxative, detoxifying agent and rejuvenator. To establish its clinical validity the present work was undertaken to evaluate its therapeutic potentials and adverse effects. The Triphala formulation was standardized by HPTLC (High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography), using Gallic acid as a marker and was subjected to clinical studies. After proper screening 160 patients of age between 16–52 years were selected for 45 days clinical study. The effectiveness of trial drugs were judged on the basis of the subjective and objective parameters. It was observed that the amount, frequency and consistency of stool were improved in Triphala treated group. The changes of odor, mucous, flatulence, belching and abdominal pain where also taken into account. The well being was assessed on the basis of the parameters like concentration, appetite, thirst, sleep, hyperacidity in arbitrary scoring system. Triphala was found to have good laxative property, help in management of hyperacidity and also improve appetite. No adverse effect was observed in the treated group when compared to normal patients. Triphala can be used effectively in the treatment of constipation and other gastric problems