gjrmi - volume 4, issue 8, august 2015
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Global Journal of Research on Medicinal plants & Indigenous medicine (GJRMI) - August 2015 issueTRANSCRIPT
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INDEX – GJRMI - Volume 4, Issue 8, August 2015
INDIGENOUS MEDICINE
Ayurveda – Agada Tantra
A CLINICAL STUDY ON THE EFFICACY OF KARANJA BEEJA TAILA ALONG WITH
DOOSHIVISHARI AGADA IN THE MANAGEMENT OF PSORIASIS
Ittoop J Ancheril*, Ashwin Kumar Bharati, Sailekha P, Niveditha PN, Deepthi Ittoop 162–171
Review Article – Ayurveda – Moulika Siddhanta
HEPATOPROTECTIVE PROPERTY OF VARNYA MAHAKASHAYA – AN INNOVATIVE INSIGHT
Sapna Narasanagi*, Sujnana VS, Jyoti Devangamath, Shreevathsa 172–181
COVER PAGE PHOTOGRAPHY: DR. HARI VENKATESH K R, PLANT ID – IMMATURE FRUITS OF SHRI TAALA – CARYOTA URENS L.*
OF THE FAMILY ARECACEAE
PLACE – KOPPA, CHIKKAMAGALUR DISTRICT, KARNATAKA, INDIA *BOTANICAL NAME VALIDATED FROM www.theplantlist.org AS ON 10/09/2015
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 4, Issue 8 | August 2015 | 162–171
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
ISSN 2277-4289 | www.gjrmi.com | International, Peer reviewed, Open access, Monthly Online Journal
A CLINICAL STUDY ON THE EFFICACY OF KARANJA BEEJA TAILA
ALONG WITH DOOSHIVISHARI AGADA IN THE MANAGEMENT OF
PSORIASIS
Ittoop J Ancheril1*
, Ashwin Kumar Bharati2, Sailekha P
3,
Niveditha PN4, Deepthi Ittoop
5
1, 3, 4Final year Postgraduate Scholar, Department of Agada tantra, SDM College of Ayurveda, Hassan,
Karnataka, India 2Professor and H.O.D.- Department of Agada tantra, SDM College of Ayurveda, Hassan, Karnataka, India
5Resident Medical Officer, SDM College of Ayurveda and Hospital, Hassan, Karnataka, India
*Corresponding Author: Email: [email protected]
Received: 22/06/2015; Revised: 20/07/2015; Accepted: 10/08/2015
ABSTRACT
Psoriasis is one of the oldest recorded skin diseases. The prevalence of psoriasis in our society is
increasing day by day.Because of its un-known etiology, recurrence and unsuccessful treatment; it is
still a challenge to the medical fraternity. Here an effort is made to see the efficacy of
Karanjabeejataila (seed oil of Pongamia pinnata) along with dooshivishariagada tablet in psoriasis.
This is a single group study with a sample size of 30 patients. Diagnosed cases of psoriasis were
selected and were administered karanjabeejataila for external application along with
dooshivishariagada administered internally for 14 days. All the results were analyzed statistically for
comparing the net effects before and after treatment. Follow up was done on 7th
& 14th
day. The
overall result was that the therapy got highly significant results in reducing main parameters like
scaling by 84 % and thickness of lesions by 57 %. It was concluded that the combination of
Karanjabeejataila along with dooshivishariagada showed significant results in reducing parameters
like scaling, erythema, thickness of lesions, degree of involvement of the lesions and in reducing the
total PASI score of psoriatic cases.
KEY WORDS: Psoriasis, Karanjabeejataila, DooshivishariAgada, PASI score, Pongamia pinnata
Research article
Cite this article:
Ittoop J Ancheril, Ashwin Kumar Bharati, Sailekha P, Niveditha PN, Deepthi Ittoop (2015),
A CLINICAL STUDY ON THE EFFICACY OF KARANJA BEEJA TAILA ALONG
WITHDOOSHIVISHARI AGADA IN THE MANAGEMENT OF PSORIASIS,
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med., Volume 4(8): 162–171
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 4, Issue 8 | August 2015 | 162–171
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
INTRODUCTION:
Psoriasis is a non-infectious chronic skin
disease. The precise cause of psoriasis is still
unknown. The prevalence of psoriasis in our
society is increasing day by day. It varies from
0% to 11.8% in different populations around
the world. In India the prevalence of psoriasis
patients among total skin patients is 2.3% &
male to female ratio is 2.46:1 (Dogra S, 2010).
The cause of psoriasis is generally believed
to be due to damage in factors of immune
system & enzymes that control skin cell
division. Abnormal immune response causes
rapid production of immature skin cells and
inflammation.Weather, stress, injury,
infection,incomplete protein digestion, bowel
toxemia, immunological factors and certain
medicationtriggers the disease process leading
to the onset and worsening of psoriasis.Various
food,environmental & cosmetic factors have
been suggested as causing & aggravating
psoriasis- environmental pollutants & toxicants,
chemical cosmetics like deodorants, shampoos,
gels, sprays, conditioners, colors& hair dye
etc.Role of drugs such as beta blockers,
NSAIDs, synthetic anti-malarial
drugs,tetracycline& lithium in the induction &
exacerbation of psoriasis have also been
studied (Tsankov N, Angelova I, Kazandjieva
J, 2000). Withdrawal of corticosteroids (topical
steroid cream) can aggravate the condition due
to so called 'rebound effect'.Simple sugars in
soft drinks,cakes and candies,caffeine
containing foods and saturated fats in red meat
and eggs are some other aggravating factors
(August McLaughlin, 2013) of psoriasis.
Because of its unknown etiology, recurrence
and unsuccessful treatment, it is still an
untackled challenge to the medical fraternity.
The existing pattern of Ayurvedic approach
to psoriasis is through the principles of
treatment of kushta (skin diseases) according to
nidana (etiology) and samprapti
(pathogenesis), but still recurrences are not
infrequent. In Ayurvedic dermatology, normal
skin complexion and pathological lesions of
skin are attributed to diet & regimens of the
individual. Kushta is the banner which is used
to explain almost all dermatological ailments in
Ayurveda with utmost clarity. Even though
kushta (skin disease) is considered as a disease
of bahyarogamarga (external route of disease
causation) (Srikantamurthy K.R, 2000), the
initiation of pathogenesis is within the gastro-
intestinal tract. Acharya Charaka emphasizes
the unparalleled influence of diet in the etio-
pathogenesis of all diseases.
At the present context people are frequently
exposed to various kinds of toxins in food as
well as the environment which in turn leads to
accumulation of toxins in our body.This state is
considered under the concept of dooshivisha
(cumulative toxicity) which could be
manifested as various skin disorders
(Srikanthamurthy K.R 2005; Sharma P.V.,
2000). Acharyas mentions rakthadushti
(vitiated blood) (Srikantamurthy K.R, 1997)
and kushta (skin diseases) as manifestations of
dooshivisha. Dooshivishajanyakushtaroga
(skin diseases caused by cumulative toxicity)
cannot be treated effectively with common
kushta (dermatological) treatment only,
whereas it can be more effectively managed
with vishahara (anti-toxic) drugs.
It is the need of the hour to develop
economic, easily available and an efficacious
medicine for psoriasis. Use of agada (anti-toxic
drugs) in chronic kushtaroga (skin diseases)
have been mentioned in classics (Sharma P.V,
2000),In this regard, karanjabeeja (seed of
Pongamia pinnata) which is a potent
vishashamana (anti-toxic) and kushtagna
(curing skin disease) drug (Ayurvedic
pharmacopoeia of India, 1999; Pandey
G,2001;Srikantamurthy.K.R, 2004) has been
taken for the study to analyze the efficacy of
its taila (oil) applied externally along with
Dooshivishariagada (Srikantamurthy K.R,
1997), a potent anti-toxic formulation for
internal administration in the management of
psoriasis.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Data were collected from patients attending
OPD of SDM College of Ayurveda and
Hospital, Hassan, Karnataka, India fulfilling
the clinical criteria. Patients were randomly
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 4, Issue 8 | August 2015 | 162–171
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
selected irrespective of their socio-economic,
educational or religious status. Ethical
clearance Number SDMCAH/IEC/50/13–14
was granted from the institution for the study.
Preparation of drug
Karanjabeejatailam:
Karanjabeeja (seeds of Pongamiapinnata)
was collected from Sidhvaidyasramam, kerala
and 20 liters of oil was obtained from it. The oil
was bottled into 200 ml air tight amber colored
bottles. The drug was checked with the criteria
mentioned in the classical Ayurvedic texts and
modern botanical parameters with experts
before using them in the study.
Table 1: Ingredients of DooshivishariAgada:
Sl No DRUG BOTANICAL NAME Part used Form
1 Pippali Piper longum Linn. Fruit Powder
2 Dhyamaka Cymbopogon martinii
(Roxb.)Wats.
Leaves Powder
3 Jatamamsi Nardostachys jatamamsi DC.(N.
grandiflora)
Root Powder
4 Lodra Symplocos racemosa Roxb. Stem bark Powder
5 Ela Elettaria cardamomum Maton Fruit Powder
6 Suvarchika Tribulus terrestris Linn. Fruit Powder
7 Kutannatum Oroxylum indicumLinn. (Benth.
ExKurz.
Root bark Powder
8 Natam Valeriana wallichii D.C Root Powder
9 Kusta Saussurea lappa C.B. Clarke. Root Powder
10 Yastimadhu Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn. Root Powder
11 Chandana Santalum album Linn. Heart wood Powder
12 Gairika Red ochre Powder
Collection of drug: Raw drugs were
collected from Sidhavaidyasramam, Thrissur
district, Kerala, India
Preparation: All the drugs were taken in equal
quantity. They were made into powder
separately. Then they were mixed together and
sufficient quantity of water was added.
Bhavana (ticturation) was done for 3 days until
vatipaka (pill form) was obtained. Then they
were made into vati (pills) and kept for drying.
Dried pills were used for the clinical study.the
drugs were send to S.D.M. centre for research
in ayurveda and allied sciences, Udupi, for
analysis - 266/13070101
Diagnostic criteria Diagnosed cases of Psoriasis
Inclusion criteria:
1. Psoriasis patients which were diagnosed as
per the criteria.
2. Patients within the age limit of 16-60 years.
Exclusion criteria: 1. Subjects with uncontrolled metabolic
disorders like diabetic dermopathy
pretibial myxedema that may interfere
with the course of treatment.
2. Pregnant women & lactating women
Assessment criteria:
PASI Scoring: The current gold standard score
for assessment of Psoriasis (Carlin CS, 2004).
• Erythema
• Thickness
• Scaling
• Degree of involvement
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 4, Issue 8 | August 2015 | 162–171
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
Table 2: Scoring pattern
Sl.No. Domain Criteria Score
1. Erythema none 0
light red 1
red,but not deep red 2
very red 3
extremely red 4
2. Scaling none 0
Scaling is visible by scratching skin 1
moderate powderiness with small lifting scales 2
heavy powderiness with cracking & lifting scales 3
heavy cracking & lifting scales, scaling falls without rubbing 4
3. Thickness none 0
barely palpable elevation 1
slight elevation 2
moderate elevation 3
marked ridge 4
4 Degree of
Involvement
none 0
1–9 % 1
10–29 % 2
30–49 % 3
50–69 % 4
70–89 % 5
90–100 % 6
Overall assessment
Overall assessment of the results was made
by considering the collective effect on all the
parameters and total PASI score.
Medicines used in the study are:
1. Karanjabeejatailam-For external application 2. DooshivishariAgada- For internal
administration
Sampling methods: Convenient sampling
method was adopted. 30 psoriasis patients were
selected from OPD according to the criteria.
Study design: A clinical survey of patients attending OPD
of SDMCA, Hassan, Karnataka, India was
made and patients fulfilling the criteria as per
the proforma were selected for the study. A
clinical evaluation of patients wasdone by
collection of data through information obtained
by detailed history & physical examination.
The study was an open label clinical study in a
single group at OPD level in 30 patients. They
were given Karanjabeejataila for external
application and DooshivishariAgada tablet
internally daily for 14 days. The patients were
assessed before and after treatment.
Follow up Study- The changes with the
treatment were tobe observed & recorded on
7th
& 14th
day in the proforma of case sheet
prepared for the study.
Assessment of results:
The parameters of base line data to the
follow up and post medication status were
compared for assessment of the results. All the
result analysis was done by using SPSS ver.20
software, and obtained results were interpreted
statistically for „p‟ value.
RESULTS
Erythema of head:
The results were compared before treatment
and after treatment and overall result of
treatment for variable erythema of head with
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 4, Issue 8 | August 2015 | 162–171
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
Wilcoxon‟s test, significant results were
obtained with Z vaue of −2.449 and P value
0.014.
Erythema of upper limb
The results were compared before treatment
and after treatment and overall result of
treatment for variable erythema of upper limb
with Wilcoxon‟s test, significant results were
obtained with Z vaue of −2.449 and P value
0.014.
Erythema of trunk
The results were compared before treatment
and after treatment and overall result of
treatment for variable erythema of trunk with
Wilcoxon‟s test, significant results were
obtained with Z vaue of −2.646 and P value
0.008.
Erythema of lower limb
The results were compared before treatment
and after treatment and overall result of
treatment for variable erythema of lower limb
with Wilcoxon‟s test, significant results were
obtained with Z vaue of −2.828 and P value
0.005.
Thickness at head
The results were compared before treatment
and after treatment and overall result of
treatment for variable thickness at head with
Wilcoxon‟stest, highly significant results were
obtained with Z vaue of −3.357 and P value
0.001.
Thickness at upper limb
The results were compared before treatment
and after treatment and overall result of
treatment for variable thickness at upper limb
with Wilcoxon‟stest, highly significant results
were obtained with Z vaue of −3.873 and P
value 0.000.
Thickness at trunk
The results were compared before treatment
and after treatment and overall result of
treatment for variable thickness at trunk with
Wilcoxon‟stest, highly significant results were
obtained with Z vaue of −3.357 and P value
0.001.
Thickness at lower limb
The results were compared before treatment
and after treatment and overall result of
treatment for variable thickness at lower limb
with Wilcoxon‟stest, highly significant results
were obtained with Z vaue of −3.945 and P
value 0.000.
Scaling at head
The results were compared before treatment
and after treatment and overall result of
treatment for variable scaling at head with
Wilcoxon‟s test, highly significant results were
obtained with Z vaue of −4.065 and P value
0.000.
Scaling at upper limb
The results were compared before treatment
and after treatment and overall result of
treatment for variable scaling at upper limb
with Wilcoxon‟stest, highly significant results
were obtained with Z vaue of −4.021 and P
value 0.000.
Scaling at trunk
The results were compared before treatment
and after treatment and overall result of
treatment for variable scaling at trunk with
Wilcoxon‟stest, highly significant results were
obtained with Z vaue of −3.666 and P value
0.000.
Scaling at lower limb
The results were compared before treatment
and after treatment and overall result of
treatment for variable scaling at lower limb
with Wilcoxon‟stest, highly significant results
were obtained with Z vaue of −4.914 and P
value 0.000.
Degree of involvement at head
The results were compared before treatment
and after treatment and overall result of
treatment for variable degree of involvement at
head with Wilcoxon‟s test, significant results
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 4, Issue 8 | August 2015 | 162–171
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
were obtained with Z vaue of −2.646 and P
value 0.008.
Degree of involvement at upper limb
The results were compared before treatment
and after treatment and overall result of
treatment for variable degree of involvement at
upper limb with Wilcoxon‟stest, significant
results were obtained with Z vaue of −2.828
and P value 0.005.
Degree of involvement at trunk
The results were compared before treatment
and after treatment and overall result of
treatment for variable degree of involvement at
trunk with Wilcoxon‟stest, significant results
were obtained with Z vaue of −2.646 and P
value 0.008.
Degree of involvement at lower limb
The results were compared before treatment
and after treatment and overall result of
treatment for variable degree of involvement at
lower limb with Wilcoxon‟stest, significant
results were obtained with Z vaue of −2.887
and P value 0.004.
Total pasi score
When the total PASI score results were
analysed using repeated anova test, highly
significant results were obtained in all pair wise
comparisons with P value of 0.000.
Table no. 3: Results-Wilcoxon’s signed rank test:
Parameter Negative ranks Positive ranks Ties Total Z
Value
P
value
Remark
N MR SR N MR SR
Erythema head 6 3.50 21.0 0 .00 0.00 24 30 -2.449 0.01 S
Erythema-upper limb 6 3.50 21.0 0 .00 0.00 24 30 -2.449 0.01 S
Erythema-trunk 7 4.00 28.00 0 .00 0.00 23 30 -2.646 0.008 S
Erythema-lower limb 8 4.50 36.00 0 .00 0.00 22 30 -2.828 0.005 S
Thickness-Head 12 6.50 78.00 0 .00 0.00 18 30 -3.357 0.001 HS
Thickness-Upper Limb 15 8.00 120.00 0 .00 0.00 15 30 -3.873 0.000 HS
Thickness-trunk 12 6.50 78.00 0 .00 0.00 18 30 -3.357 0.001 HS
Thickness-Lower Limb 17 9.00 153.00 0 .00 0.00 13 30 -3.945 0.000 HS
Scaling-head 19 10.00 190.00 0 .00 0.00 11 30 -4.065 0.000 HS
Scaling-Upper Limb 19 10.00 190.00 0 .00 0.00 11 30 -4.021 0.000 HS
Scaling-trunk 16 8.50 136.00 0 .00 0.00 14 30 -3.666 0.000 HS
Scaling-Lower Limb 25 13.00 325.00 0 .00 0.00 5 30 -4.914 0.000 HS
Degree-of involvement-
head
7 4.00 28.00 0 .00 0.00 23 30 -2.646 0.008 S
Degree-of involvement-
Upper Limb
8 4.50 36.00 0 .00 0.00 22 30 -2.828 0.005 S
Degree-of involvement-
trunk
7 4.00 28.00 0 .00 0.00 23 30 -2.646 0.008 S
Degree-of involvement-
Lower Limb
9 5.00 45.00 0 .00 0.00 21 30 -2.887 0.004 S
N- Number of samples, MR- Mean ranks, SR- Sum of Ranks, S- Significant, HS- Highly significant
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 4, Issue 8 | August 2015 | 162–171
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
Table 4: Repeated ANOVA Test- PASI Score
Parameter N Mean Df F value P value Size
effect
Green
house
geisser
error df
Remark
PASI 1st day 12.290
PASI 7th
day 30 9.980 1.194 46.715 0.000 0.617 46.323 HS
PASI 14th
day 7.157
N- number of samples, Df- Degrees of Freedom
DISCUSSION
There is no single variety of kushta, which can be rightly correlated to psoriasis.Psoriasis can be chiefly divided into four types on the basis of its appearance namely- plaque, guttate, erythrodermic and pustular. Plaque psoriasis is characterized by well defined, non-inflammatory lesions covered with uniform scales, while guttate is characterized by multiple, small, oval, drop like lesions with scaling (Roxanna Gunter, 2011). Here, an effort has been taken to correlate plaque and guttate types with features of ekakushtha (a type of skin disease). In ekakushtha, the characteristics are aswedanam (absence of sweat), mahavastum (larger extent) and matsyashakalopamam (fishy scales) (R.K Sharma et al., 1988). The lesions of plaque type is also found all over the body and though small and drop like, guttate psoriasis is also found all over the body which can be correlated with ekakushtha. Other striking similarity found was, scaling with characteristic shiny appearance found both in ekakushtha and plaque –guttate types of psoriasis. The lesions of plaque and guttate type are dry and rough which can be correlated to ekakushtha. Also, other symptoms pertaining to vata (humour) and kaphadosha (humour) are present in both types. E.g- rukshata (dry skin –vata) and bahalatva (macules and papules- kaphadosha), kandu (Itching-kaphadosha) etc. Also Bhavamishra has mentioned “chakrakara” (round) appearance of ekakushtha which is similar to drop-like lesion of the guttate psoriasis. Thus we can find striking similarity between plaque – guttate psoriasis and ekakushtha in Ayurveda.
In kitibha (another variety of skin disease) the lesions are usually sukshma (small in size) and sravi (exudation) (R.K Sharma et al., 1988). But in psoriasis, the lesions are large and dry in nature. In sidhma (another variety of skin disease), the lesions are mostly found in urdhvakaya (upper portion of body) but in psoriasis the lesions are distributed all over the body. In sidhma, there will be scaling which is like raja (dust particles) &kandu (itching) is also present but in psoriasis there is scale formation andkanduis usually absent. Thus kitibha & sidhma cannot be exactly correlated with psoriasis. Description and characteristic features of ekakushtha very closely resemble the descriptions of psoriasis has been tabulated (Table 4):
Probable mode of action of drug:
As rightly said by all acharyas, some drugs may act through rasa (taste), some through guna (attributes), veerya (potency), vipaka (post-digestive effect) or prabhava (dominant function) or it may be the combined effect of all the ingredients (P.V.Sharma, 1998). Hence, to understand the mode of action of medicines, it is necessary to understand the pharmacodynamics by understanding dominant properties.
Karanjabeeja is having katuvipaka (pungent- post digestive effect), katutikta rasa (pungent- bitter taste), laghurukshaguna (easily digestable and dry), ushnaveerya (hot potency), vatakaphashamaka (pacify vata and kapha humours) property and kushthaghna karma (skin disease curing property). Though kushtha (skin disease) is tridosha (involvement of three humours) dominant disease, the predominance of vata and kapha is found in psoriasis.
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 4, Issue 8 | August 2015 | 162–171
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
Table 5: Comparison of Ekakushta and Psoriasis
Ekakushtha Psoriasis
Aswedanam The lesions of this disease are dry and rough
Mahavastum Lesions are found all over body. The
Un-involved skin is also abnormal.
Matsyashakalopam Well defined raised macules, papules &
plaques of erythema found which are covered
with silvery scales.
Krishna –Aruna Varna (black- red colour) The lesions are raised & erythematous, thick
Non-indurated lesion becomes black in colour.
Katu rasa (pungent taste)-One property of
katu rasa described by acharyacharakais
“Marganvivrunoti” which means it dilates the
srotas (channels) and thus acts on cellular level
and stops the uncontrolled production of cells
which causes hyperkertanization. Other
properties of katu rasa described by
acharyacharaka are vishaghna (anti-toxic),
kandughna (anti-itching) and vranaprasadana
(improves skin complexion).
Tikta rasa (bitter taste) has the property of
raktaprasadana (blood purification),
vishaghna, kushthaghna, kandughna (anti-
itching). It also has kaphaghna (pacifies kapha
humour) property. Laghuguna (easy to digest)
possess kaphashamaka (pacifies kapha
humour) property. By its srotoshodhaka
(clearing the channels) property, it acts on
minute channels and removes the amavisha
(indigested food). Acharyasushruta has
described lekhana (scraping) and ropana
(wound healing) properties of laghuguna.
Lekhana property might help in management of
hyperkertanization which leads to scaling.
Acharya Hemadri has given shoshana
(shrinking) property of ruksha (dry) guna. It
also has kaphashamaka property. Acharya
Hemadri has described shodhana (cleansing)
property of tikshna (intense) guna. Acharya
Madhava has described kaphavatahara
(pacifies kapha and vata) and lekhana
(scraping) property of tikshna (intense) guna.
Ushnaveerya (hot potency)-According to
Ashtangasangraha, ushnaveerya has
vatakaphashamaka (pacifies vata and kapha)
property and according to AshtangaHrudaya, it
has ashupaka (sudden ation) property through
which it acts quickly at minute channels.
Looking to the karmas, it is clear that the drug
is having kushthaghna, kandughna and
vrunaghna (wound healing) properties which
clearly explains its mode of action in kushta.
DooshivishariAgada: It is indicated in all types
of visha, i.e. Dooshivishari Agada is effective
in sthavara, jangama (inanimate and animate)
and also garavisha (poison). The properties of
Dooshivishariagada are raktashodhaka (blood
purifying) and vishaghna (antitoxic).
Raktashodhaka property corrects the vitiated
raktadhatu (blood) and helps in maintaining
normal functions of raktadhatu. Vishaghna
(anti toxic) property helps in detoxifying the
garavisha, which is having alpavirya (mild
potency) and is deep seated in raktadhatu.
The drug profile shows that the general
properties are predominant of madhurakashaya
rasa, (sweet-astringent taste) laghu-
rookshaguna (easy to digest and dry),
sheethaveerya (cold potency) and
katuvipaka(pungent post digestive effect).
Being a combination of drugs bearing similar
qualities, a synergistic drug action can be
assumed. Due to the above-mentioned
properties, Dooshivishariagada is tridoshahara
(pacifies three humours), twakdoshahara (cures
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skin diseases) and rakthasodhaka. Almost all
the drugs of this yoga are seethaveerya (cold
potency) in nature, capable of antagonizing the
adverse effect of visha. Drugs of this yoga
(recipe) are fairly met within many agada (anti-
toxic) preparations, some of these drugs are
individually vishagna (anti-toxic) and again
certain combination of drugs would bring about
miraculous effects apart from their total effects
(Yoga Samyogajam Phalam).
The drugs are prominent in the rasas
(tastes) which are said to beantitoxic ie
madhura (sweet), tikta(bitter), katu (pungent)
and kashaya (astringent). Almost all the drugs
are laghu (easy to digest) and rooksha (dry).
Thus the combination itself is highly potent and
can cure Dooshivisha with signs and symptoms
of kushta (skin disease) which is a kaphavata
prominent disorder.
Table no. 6: Properties of individual drugs of DooshivishariAgada
Drug Rasa Guna Veerya Vipaka Karma
Pippali Madhura,
Katu, Tikta
Laghu,
Snigdha
Anushna Madhura Tridoshakara
Dhyamaka Katu, Tikta Laghu,
Rooksha,
Teekshna
Ushna Katu Pittahara
Jatamansi Tikta,
Kashaya
Laghu Sheeta Katu Tridoshahara
Lodhra Kashaya Laghu Sheeta Katu Kaphapittanut
Ela Madhura Laghu,
Rooksha
Sheeta Madhura Kaphavatahara
Gokshura Madhura,
Katu
Guru,
Snigdha
Sheeta Madhura Vatanut
Syonaka Tiktha,
Kashaya
Laghu,
Rooksha
Sheeta Katu Kapha-pitta
Shamaka
Tagara Tikta, Katu,
Kashaya
Laghu,
Snigdha
Ushna Katu Kapha-vata
Hara
Kushta Tikta, Katu,
Madhura
Laghu,
Rooksha,
Teekshna
Ushna Katu Vata-kapha
Hara
YashtiMadhu Madhura Guru,
Snigdha
Sheeta Madhura Vata-pittajit
Chandana Madhura,
Tikta
Laghu,
Rooksha
Sheeta Katu Kapha-
pittahara
Gairika Madhura,
Kashaya
Snigdha,
Vishada
Sheeta Madhura Pittanasaka,
Kaphajit
CONCLUSION
The present day polluted environment,
unhealthy and unwholesome foods& stressful
regimencan trigger accumulation of toxins in
the body. Certain drugs, virudhahara
(incompatible food), mental stress are
aggravating factors in psoriasis. Virudhavihara
(incompatible life style) will also contribute in
the causation and exacerbation of kushta.
Addiction to tobacco, non-vegetarian diet,
virudhahara and even injudicious vegetarian
diet has relationship with psoriasis
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manifestations. The symptoms of psoriasis can
be compared with features of ekakushta.
Karanjabeejataila has got potent kushtagna
properties. Karanjabeejataila for external
application along with dooshivishariagada is
effective in reducing the main symptoms of
psoriasis. The combination is highly effective
in reducing scaling upto 84% and thickness of
lesions upto 57 %. It is also effective in
reducing erythema upto 20 % & degree of
involvement of lesions upto 30 %. Hence,
agadayogas (anti-toxic formulations) can be
effectively tried in kushta and other related
complications of dooshivisha.
REFERENCES
August McLaughlin, (2013), Foods That Make
Psoriasis Worse. [Online] Available
from:
http://www.livestrong.com/article/337096-
foods-that-aggravate-psoriasis/
(accessedon 18/5/2015)
Carlin CS, Feldman SR, Krueger JG, Menter A,
Krueger GG. (2004) A 50% reduction
in the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index
(PASI 50) is a clinically significant
endpoint in the assessment of psoriasis.
J Am AcadDermatol. Jun; 50 (6):859–
66.
Dogra S, Yadav S. (2010) Psoriasis in India:
Prevalence and pattern. Indian J
DermatolVenereolLeprol;76:595–601.
Government of India, (1999) Ministry Of
Health And Family Welfare.
Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia of India.
part 1,vol.2 Department Of Indian
Systems of Medicine publications.
Pandey.G. (2001) DravyaGunaVijnan part2-
1stedition .Varanasi: Krishnadas
Academy publications.
Roxanna Gunter (2011), The effect of a
homeopathic complex in psoriasis
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andle/10210/7888/Gunter.pdf?sequenc
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Sharma P.V. (1998) Charakasamhitha vol.1,
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edition.Varanasi:Chaukhambhaorien
talia publications.
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5th
edition.Varanasi:Chaukhambhaorien
talia publications.
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edition. Varanasi: Chowkhamba
Sanskrit series office.
Srikantamurthy K.R (1997), Ashtanga Hridaya
of vagbhata vol.3.2nd
edition. Varanasi:
Krishnadas Academy publications.
Srikantamurthy K.R (2000),
Ashtangasangrahavol.1.3rd
edition.Vara
nasi: Chaukhambhaorientalia
publications.
Srikantamurthy. K.R. (2004),
Susruthasamhitha.vol.1.2nd
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Srikanthamurthy K.R (2005),
Susruthasamhitha,
vol.2,2nd
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Tsankov N, Angelova I, Kazandjieva J.
(2000), Drug-induced psoriasis.
Recognition and management. [online]
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med/11702297(accessed on 13/3/2015)
Source of Support: NIL Conflict of Interest: None Declared
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Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
ISSN 2277-4289 | www.gjrmi.com | International, Peer reviewed, Open access, Monthly Online Journal
HEPATOPROTECTIVE PROPERTY OF VARNYA MAHAKASHAYA –
AN INNOVATIVE INSIGHT
Sapna Narasanagi1*, Sujnana VS
2, Jyoti Devangamath
3, Shreevathsa
4
1, 2, 3 P.G. scholar, Department of PG studies in Ayurveda Siddhanta, Government Ayurveda Medical
College, Mysuru, Karnataka, India 4 HOD and Professor (I/C) Department of PG studies in Ayurveda Siddhanta, Government Ayurveda
Medical College, Mysuru, Karnataka, India
*Corresponding Author: E-mail: [email protected]; Mob: 7795409892
Received: 24/05/2015; Revised: 15/07/2015; Accepted: 31/07/2015
ABSTRACT
Liver is considered to be one of the vital organs which help in maintaining the health of the
human body. Not many of the physicians relate the outer glow of complexion to the liver health.
After critical analysis it can be understood that there is a tremendous importance of liver function to
one’s appearance. Modern lifestyles can overstress the liver and make it malfunctioning. No
significant and safe hepato-protective drugs are available in existing contemporary therapeutics.
Liver is the metabolic factory of the body producing energy to sustain the thousands of functions
performed every minute by all body’s cells. Skin cells require energy to eliminate toxins, repair and
regenerate. Nature has bestowed some plants with the property to prevent, treat and cure hepatic
disturbances. The focus of this review is to elucidate the importance of liver in maintenance of Varna
and also the probable mode of action of Varnya mahakashaya gana dravyas on yakrit (liver) based
upon Ayurvedic aspects. As varnya gana helps in detoxification of blood in Raktapradoshaja vikaras
(disorders due to vitiated blood) and yakrit is the moola Sthana (root site) for raktavaha Srotas
(channels of blood circulation).
KEYWORDS: Yakrit, Varna, Varnyamahakashaya gana.
Review Article
Cite this article:
Sapna Narasanagi, Sujnana VS, Jyoti Devangamath, Shreevathsa (2015),
HEPATOPROTECTIVE PROPERTY OF VARNYA MAHAKASHAYA – AN INNOVATIVE INSIGHT,
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med., Volume 4(7): 172–181
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 4, Issue 8 | August 2015 | 172–181
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
INTRODUCTION
Liver
The liver is the largest glandular organ in
the body which works all the time to keep the
body healthy. The liver is important because a
person’s nutritional level is not only determined
by what he or she eats, but by what the liver
processes. Liver is considered to be one of the
most vital organs that functions as a centre of
metabolism of nutrients such as carbohydrates,
proteins and lipids and excretion of waste
metabolites. Additionally, it is also handling the
metabolism and excretion of drugs and other
xenobiotic from the body thereby providing
protection against foreign substances by
detoxifying and eliminating them
(Sembulingam. K, 2006). Skin cells require
energy to eliminate toxins, repair and
regenerate. Nature has bestowed some plants
with the property to prevent, treat and cure
hepatic disturbances. The focus of this review
is to elucidate the importance of liver in
maintenance of Varna and also the probable
mode of action of Varnya mahakashaya gana
dravyas on yakrit (liver) based upon Ayurvedic
aspects. Hence here an attempt is made to
create a hypothesis that varnya mahakashayaa
dravyas can be a drug of choice in case of skin
disorders associated with liver dysfunction
Role of liver in healthy skin
As per Ayurveda:
In Ayurvedic literature, Bhavamisra (16th
Century) has described that it is situated right
and below to the hridaya (heart) and is the
sthana of pitta and sonitha (blood). Susrutha
(500 BC) mentioned yakrit as the abode of
ranjaka pitta and describes it as the sthana of
rakta (blood). Charaka (1000 BC) while
describing the Srotas (channels), mentioned
yakrit and pleeha (spleen) as the moola of
raktavaha Srotas (Giby abraham et al., 2014).
Vagbhata holds the opinion that the twak (skin)
is formed from the rakta. After the paka of
rakta by its dhatwagni, it gets dried up to from
the skin, like the deposition of cream on the
surface of boiling milk (Hari Sadashiva Shastri
Paradakara, 2002). Hence liver is directly
related to the skin.
As per Contemporary medicine:
“Healthy Liver Can Mean Healthy
Skin” – said by Jody Smith
Liver is the metabolic factory of the body
producing energy to sustain the thousands of
functions performed every minute by all body’s
cells. Hair follicles need energy to grow strong
shiny hair and skin cells require energy to
eliminate toxins and repair and regenerate
them. Heart requires energy to pump blood
efficiently to skin to maintain collagen
production and oxygenate the cells to protect
them from aging (Liver Doctor, 2015), thereby
Based on the physiology of liver, there is a
relation between the outer glows of complexion
to liver health.
Role of liver in skin diseases:
As per Ayurveda:
In Ayurveda it can be understood in relation
with Shonita, Raktavaha Srotas, and yakrit. In
shonitaja rogas (disorders due to vitiated
blood), Vaivarnya (skin discoloration) is
mentioned (CS, vimana stana 5/8, pp. 250)
(Acharya Y.T, 2006), Prasanna
varnendriyaartha (bright skin tone and texture
etc) are the lakshanas of vishuddha rakta
purusha (characteristics of a person having
pure and detoxified blood) (CS, Sutrasthana
24/13&24, pp.124&125) (Acharya Y.T., 2006),
snigdha rakta Varna in rakta sara purusha
(CS, Vimanasthana 8/104, pp.278) (Acharya
Y.T, 2006) and liver is said to be the moola of
shonitavaha/ raktavaha srotas. This shows that
liver is the karana (cause) for vaivarnya,
prasanna Varna and other disorders of skin.
As per Contemporary medicine:
The kidney-bladder system, liver system,
lung system, and heart system are the creators
of the structure of human protein. It is the direct
result of the cooperation of these four organic
systems. So any functional disorders will bring
about disorders in protein formation which can
appear as various kinds of symptoms, and also
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as skin diseases. If this indication is taken as a
working hypothesis, then the connections
between particular skin diseases and the four
protein-forming organs mentioned could be
studied (Alla Selawry, 2004–2009). Hence here
the focus is laid on liver system wherein if liver
is not doing its function of breaking down
toxins efficiently then they must be eliminated
from the body by other means – in many cases
they come out through the skin. When
excessive toxins build up in the deeper layers of
the skin this causes inflammation to occur and
this can manifest as: Dermatitis, Eczema,
Premature aging and wrinkling of the skin etc.
(Liver Doctor, 2015).
Treatment of dermatological conditions
where liver is involved: Ayurvedic view
In dealing with problems of the liver, the
primary goal is to enhance liver detoxification
processes and to protect against further liver
damage. Significant and safe hepato-protective
agents are unavailable in contemporary
therapeutics. Therefore, due importance has
been given globally to develop plant-based
hepato-protective drugs effective against a
variety of liver disorders. So in this review the
important herbs in varnya mahakashaya gana
used to treat (vaivarnya) skin discolouration
associated with liver disorders have been
described.
Varnya mahakashaya dravyas: (CS,
Sutrasthana 4/10, pp.32) (Acharya Y.T., 2006)
Varnya mahakashaya dravyas are the group
of drugs which are used to treat and prevent the
Vaivarnya (skin discoloration) related
conditions, to maintain and enhance the
complexion in healthy. These can be
administered both internally and externally.
According to Charaka Samhita Sutra Sthana 4th
chapter Varnya mahakashaya dravyas includes
– Acc to Charaka Samhita Sutra Sthana 4th
chapter Varnya mahakashaya dravyas mainly
includes - Chandana (Santalum Album), Tunga
(Calophyllum inophyllum), Padmaka (Prunus
cerasoides), Ushira (Vetveria zizanoides),
Madhuka (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Manjishta
(Rubia cordifolia), Sariva (Hemidesmus
indicus), Payasya (Pureaeria tuberosa), Sita
(Cynodon dactylon), Lata (Cynodon linearis).
A brief drug review of Varnya Mahakashaya
dravyas is show in table no.1.
Table no 1: Varnya Mahakashaya dravyas (Pallavi. G et al., 2012)
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DISCUSSION
From the above review it is understood that
liver is one of the important component in
maintaining the Varna, and varnya mahakashya
dravyas possess both hepato protective and
varnya property. Thus the link is found
between the liver and the skin, wherein varnya
mahakashya can be used; as both these
conditions are checked by it. Some of the
examples of Varnya mahakashaya dravyas
used in Yakrit vikaras mentioned in classics
have been shown in table no.2, and References
of research and review articles on
hepatoprotective action of each varnya gana
dravyas in Table no. 3.
Table no.2 References of Varnya mahakashaya dravyas used in Yakrit vikaras mentioned in
classics.
1. Chandana Ex: In kamala (jaundice) –
Katukaadhya ghrutam (CS, Chikitsasthana 16/47.
pp.529.)(Acharya Y.T, 2006),
It is also mentioned in vishagna, kandughna (CS, Sutrasthana
4/11.pp.33) (Acharya Y.T, 2006)
2. Punnaga (Nagakesara) Ex: in Mrutbhakshana nivarana vidhi (CS. Chikitsasthana 16/108.
pp. 531) (Acharya YT et al., 2006).
3. Ushira Ex: in kamala –
Bijakarishta (CS. Chikitsasthana 16/121. pp. 532.) (Acharya
Y.T, 2006),
Blood purifier (PV Sharma, 2006).
4. Manjishta Ex: in kamala –
Gaudoarishta (CS. Chikitsasthana 16/121. pp. 532.)
(Acharya Y.T, 2006)
(Acharya Y.T, 2006),
It is also mentioned in vishagna gana
5. Madhuka Ex: in kamala –
Haidari ghruta, Dhatryaavalehya,
Bijakarishta, Gaudoarishta (CS. Chikitsasthana 16/121. pp.
532.) (Acharya Y.T, 2006),
It is also mentioned in jeevaneeya, kandugna,
mutravirajaneeya, shonitasthapanaani gana (CS, Sutrasthana
4/9, 11, 15, and 18) (Acharya Y.T, 2006).
6. Payasya (Vidari) It is also mentioned in balya, (CS, Sutrasthana 4/10 pp.32)
(Acharya Y.T, 2006).
Purishavirajaneeya gana (CS, Sutrasthana 4/15 pp.33)
(Acharya Y.T, 2006).
in hepatosplenomegaly (PV Sharma, 2006)
7,8 Sita & Lata Ex: in Mrutbhakshana nivarana vidhi (CS. Chikitsasthana
16/121 chakrapani. pp. 532.) (Acharya Y.T, 2006),
These varnya mahakashaya dravyas can be administered both internally and externally.
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Table no. 3 References of research and review articles on hepatoprotective action of each varnya gana
dravyas:
1. Santalum album 1. Hepatoprotective Potential of Hydro alcoholic Extract of Santalum album
Linn. Leaves.
2. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research
2014; 6(3):pp. 224–228
2.
Vetiveria
zizanioides
3. Hepatoprotective activity of Vetiveria zizanioides Linn.against ethanol-
induced liver damage in rats.
4. Pharmacognosy Magazine, Vol 4, Issue 16 (Suppl.), Oct-Dec, 2008, pp
216.
3. vetiveria
zizanioides
5. Hepatoprotective potential of methanolic extract of vetiveria zizanioides
roots against carbon tetrachloride induced acute liver damage in rats.
6. Digest Journal of Nanomaterials and Biostructures, Vol. 8, No. 2, April -
June 2013, pp. 835–844.
4. Prunus puddum 1. Ethnopharmaco-Botanical Review of Padmaka – Prunus puddum Roxb.
2. International Journal of Ayurvedic and Herbal Medicine 1:3 (2011) pp.
87:99.
5. Calophyllum
inophyllum.
1. Antibacterial and Analgesic Effects of the Stem Barks of Calophyllum
inophyllum
2. International Journal of ChemTech Research, Vol.2, No.2, April-June
2010, pp 973–979.
6. Rubia cordifolia. Hepatoprotective activity of Rubia cordifolia.
Pharmacologyonline (2007)3: pp. 73–79.
7. Glycyrrhiza
glabra
1. Glycyrrhiza glabra (Liquorice) - a potent medicinal herb.
2. International Journal of Herbal Medicine 2014; 2(2):pp. 132–136.
8. Cynodon
dactylon
1. Pharmacological Perspectives of Cynodon dactylon.
2. Research Journal of Pharmaceutical, Biological and Chemical Sciences,
April – June 2012, Volume 3 Issue 2 pp.1135.
9. Hemidesmus
indicus
3. Hepatoprotective activity of Hemidesmus indicus R.Br. in rats.
4. Indian journal of experimental biology, vol .44, May 2006, pp.399–402.
10. Mesua ferrea 1. Evaluation of Hepatoprotective Activity of Isolated Mesuol from Mesua
Ferrea L. In Paracetamol Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats.
2. International journal of research article pharmaceutical innovations, sept
₋ oct 2013, volume 3, issue 5, pp. 42.
11. Mesua ferrea 3. Evaluation of antioxidant and hepatoprotective efficacy of methanolic
extract of Mesua ferrea linn leaves in experimentally challenged mice.
4. International Journal of PharmTech Research, Oct-Dec 2009, Vol.1,
No.4, pp. 1692–1696.
12. Mesua ferrea 5. Hepatoprotective Effect of Stamen Extracts of Mesua ferrea L. against
Oxidative Stress induced by CCl4 in Liver Slice Culture Model.
6. Natural Product Sciences, (2012), 18(2):pp. 76–82.
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Ayurvedic pharmacology of
Varnyamahakashaya dravyas:
Before understanding the Ayurvedic
pharmacology of varnya mahakashaya
understanding of factors involved in formation
of varna (skin complexion) is very essential
which would in turn help to analyse the effect
of varnya mahakashaya dravyas on varna and
the yakrit. Hence Factors involved in the
process of formation of Varna are as follows:
(Pallavi. G et al., 2012)
1) Dosha (functional entities of the body):
a) Vata- Udana vata & vyana vata.
b) Pitta- Bhrajaka pitta & Ranjaka pitta.
2) Dhatu (tissue elements): Rasa & Rakta
Dhatu.
3) Agni (digestive fire/enzymes): Jatharagni,
Bhutagni, & Dhatwagni.
4) Srotas (channels): Rasavaha Srotas &
Raktavaha Srotas.’
In figure no. 1 Schematic representation of
mode of action of varnya mahakashaya
dravyas on Twacha (skin) internally have been
shown and in table no.4 the relation between
the factors for formation of Varna and the
varnya kara bhavas present in the varnya
mahakashayaa dravyas have been shown.
Figure 1: Schematic representation on mode of action of varnya mahakashaya dravyas on
Twacha (skin)
Intake of Aushadha
Rasa Dhatu
Rakta Dhatwagni and Ranjaka Pitta
Rakta Dhatu
Through vyana vayu
Circulates Throughout the Body
Increase in Ojas
Reflects in Twacha (skin)
Yakrit is involved
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Table.no 4: Varnya dravyas: Varnya Kara bhavas
Varnya Kara Bhavas of Varnya Mahakashaya dravyas
1. Rasa Dhatu (lymph
tissue)
Rasa (taste) - Madhura rasa (sweet taste),
Guna (quality) - guru (difficult to digest) & snigdha guna
(unctuous quality)
Vipaka (post metabolic effect) - Madhura (sweet) vipaka,
Virya (potency) - sheeta virya (cold potency).
2. Rakta Dhatu (blood
tissue)
Vipaka (post metabolic effect) - Katu (pungent) vipaka,
Virya (potency) - Ushna (hot) virya,
Guna (quality) - laghu (easily digestible) & snigdha guna
(unctuous quality).
3. Twacha (skin) Among panchmahabhuta (5essential elements)-
Vayu mahabhuta (air element) for sensitivity
Prithvi (earth element) as gross form.
4. Vata (Qualities
reflecting elements of
space and air
Rasa (taste) – Kashaya (astringent) & Tikta (bitter)
Guna (Quality) – laghu & Ruksha (dry) guna
Vipaka (Post metabolic effect) – Katu (Pungent) vipaka,
Virya (potency) – Sheeta virya
5, Pitta (qualities
reflecting the elements
of fire and water)
Vipaka (post metabolic effect) - Katu vipaka,
Virya (potency) – ushna virya
6. Agni (digestive fire) Virya (potency) – ushna virya
Vipaka (post metabolic effect) - Katu vipaka
7. Ojas (prime energy) Rasa (taste) – Madhura rasa,
Guna (quality) – guru & snigdha guna,
Vipaka (post metabolic effect) - madhura vipaka,
Virya (potency) – sheeta virya.
Discussion on Probable mode of action of
varnya mahakashayaa dravyas on yakrit
To understand the probable mode of action,
Etio-pathogenesis of yakrit roga should be
understood, which is as follows- in Figure 2.
The main aim of treatment is to purify the
blood and to regain the normal functions of the
liver for which the Cikitsa siddhanta (Line of
treatment) in Ayurveda is (Hari Sadashiva
Shastri Paradakara, 2002).
A. Sodhana (Purificatory therapy) - virechana
B. Sanshamana (Palliative therapy) - Kapha
pitta hara cikitsa
Shodana is done by the respective line of
treatments and samshamana can be done by
administrating the supportive drugs of varnya
mahakashaya dravyas such as madhuka,
chandana, ushira, punnaga (Nagakesara),
payasya (vidari) possessing hepatoprotective
property as single drugs or compounded drugs.
Toxins and Yakrit:
Garavisha, a type of toxin described in
Ayurveda affects liver & hepatomegaly may
also take place. The reason for hepatomegaly is
that the blood has special affinity towards
toxins. The toxins immediately get spread in
the body through blood (Hari Sadashiva Shastri
Paradakara, 2010) and hence treatment is given
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 4, Issue 8 | August 2015 | 172–181
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
to pitta dosha, thereby purification of rakta
dhatu takes place.
According to pharmacology, the main
mechanism involved in the protection of liver
could be associated with the strong capability
of hepato-protective drugs to reduce the
intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species
by enhancing the level of both enzymatic and
non-enzymatic antioxidants. These drugs
protect liver tissues against oxidative damage
and help in stimulating the repair mechanism of
liver (Giby Abraham et al., 2014).
Figure 2: Etio-pathogenesis of yakrit roga (liver disease)
Vidahi annapanam (food and drinking that cause burning sensation, Madhya sevana (alcohol
intake), Teekshna padartha (strong/ sharp substance)
▼
Pitta prakopa
(aggrevation of pitta)
▼
Dushita rakta dhatu
(Vitiated blood tissue)
▼
Rakta pradoshaja roga (disease caused by vitiated blood tissue)
▼
Yakrit rogas
Analysis based on Rasapanchakas:
Rasapanchakas means rasa, guna, virya,
vipaka and karma (functions), which are the
base for pharmacology of varnya mahakashaya
dravyas. Analysis of these present in the
individual drugs reveals that maximum number
of drugs have Madhura, Tikta and Kashaya
rasa, laghu guna, Madhura katu Vipaka and
Sheeta Virya.
Madura rasa: Its snigdha (unctuous) sheeta
(cold in nature) and guru (heavy to digest) guna
does dhatuposhana (nourishment to all essential
body tissues) function thereby increasing the
immunity, strength and stability in the body and
protect liver tissues against oxidative damage.
Due to its pittaghna (destroying the excess of
qualities reflecting the elements of fire and
water) and vishaghna (destroying of toxins)
functions helps in removing the obstruction and
toxins from the rakta vaha channels and yakrit
(CS, sutrasthana 26/42-43)(Acharya Y.T,
2006).
Tikta rasa: Its Laghu guna (easy to digest
quality) helps in increasing jatharagni as they
are easily digestible and they form less
nitrogenous waste products, Arochakaghna
(treat loss of appetite), Agnidipana (increases
metabolism) Aharapachana (helps in digestion)
(Sharma Dinesh Chandra et al., 2014) helps in
proper metabolism (by enhancing the
catabolism) thereby these herbs help in
digestion of nitrogenous waste products
collected in body, due to disturbed metabolism.
kashaya rasa have Ropana property (Healing
property) helps in stimulating the repair
mechanism of liver .
Vipaka: Madhura and Katu Vipaka that cause
catabolism in our body and removes
obstruction of Rakta Vaha Channels. (Sharma
Dinesh Chandra et al., 2014)
Virya: varnya mahakashayaa is chiefly of
Sheeta Virya and by virtue of its pitta and
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 4, Issue 8 | August 2015 | 172–181
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
Rakta alleviating property it pacifies the pitta
dosha and thereby purifies/detoxifies the rakta
dhatu in twak rogas associated with yakrit
vikaras. Sheetavirya also act as diuretics and
antioxidant thus reduce the intracellular levels
of reactive oxygen species (Giby Abraham et
al., 2014).
Acharya Sushruta mentioned the
composition of rakta (blood) on the basis of
Pancha- mahabhuta (five elements), in the
same way modern physiology illustrated.
(Table. 5)
Tables no. 5 the composition of blood on the basis of Pancha- mahabhuta
Panchamahabuta composition
Rakta
According to contemporary science
Blood
Visrata (Prthvi mahabhuta), serum protein, glucose etc,
Dravta (Jala mahabhuta), plasma, lipids etc,
Raga (Agni mahabhuta),
haemoglobin, potassium, magnesium, iodine,
chloride, acid phosphate, lipase, insulin etc.
Spandana (Vayu mahabhuta)
and
Colloidal substances in the blood, blood
pressure.
laghuta (Akasha mahabhuta). Oxygen, carbon di oxide, nitrogen gases
contributes to laghu guna of rakta.
Thus, in Ayurveda Panchamahabhutas
(five basic elements of the body) is the base for
all the body components and these are the
bridges which links all the body tissues. These
are the base for creating such hypothesis.
CONCLUSION
On the basis of above study it can be
concluded that in skin disorders associated with
liver involvement varnya mahakashayaa can be
used as a supporting tool along with the main
treatment; because conventional skin creams or
drugs can suppress the condition but ultimately
there may be side effects because the main
challenge which contemporary science facing is
how to ensure effective metabolism of the
drugs that have been prescribed since the liver
itself is in disorder. So in a natural approach for
the health of the liver, Ayurveda sages have
used their intellect, to formulate such herbal
formulations that can be metabolized even by a
sluggish liver. The logic behind how such
formulations work is that they first heal and
strengthen the liver and then contribute to the
restoration of its normal functions that may
reduce inflammation and does detoxification of
blood.
“Preserving health of the liver means
adding more complexion to the skin.”
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Author is thankful to Dr. Shreevathsa, HOD
and Professor (I/C), Dr. Sujnana V.S and Dr.
Jyoti Devangamath B.A.M.S., P.G. scholar,
MD (Ayu), Department of PG studies in
Ayurveda Siddhanta,GAMC, Mysuru for all the
help and guidance in writing this article.
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 4, Issue 8 | August 2015 | 172–181
Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||
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Source of Support: NIL Conflict of Interest: None Declared
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