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MEDICINAL PLANTS USED AS, ANTI-CANCER DRUGS

From The Vault: Baby Joseph, Sophy Paul - (Department of Pharmacognosy, Nagarjuna Herbal Concentrates Ltd., Kalayanthani P.O, Thodupuzha, Kerala). Dr. Nishanth Gopinath, Pr. S.J.Kekha - (51501)IA Educational, Medical and Charitable Society, Kollakkadavu PO, Chengannoor, Kerala.)  Cancer is an insidious disease affecting mankind in every country of the-world. It is the second most common cause of death after cardiovascular diseases. Cancer is notorious in the sense that the disease can affect almost anyone, irrespective of age, sex, social or financial status. Also, cancer can attack almost any tissue in any part of the body. The battle to conquer cancer is an international effort. It has been estimated that over 40000 cancer patients in the USA are now cured annually by chemotherapy. Cancer in our country is thought to be a deadly disease with no hope of cure. This, however, is not true For the treatment of cancer currently we have about thirty chemotherapeutic agents and out of these nearly one third are natural products. Recent research reveals that the natural products include antitumour antibiotics coming from some medicinal plants. Many medicinal plants having management of anticancer properties. Present study make an attempt to introduce few anticancer medicinal plants. Some plants are mentioned below : Allium sativum.Linn Family - Alliaceae English name - Garlic Sanskrit name - Lasuna Hindi name - Lahsan Malayalam name - Veluthulli Ayurvedic Properties : Rasa - Katu, madhura, lavana, tikta, kashaya Guna - Snigdha, Tiksna Virya - Usna Vipaka - Katu Actions - Vathakaphahara, rasayana, vrsya, balya, medhya, varnakara Habit & Habitat A hardy perennial herb, cultivated all over India. Description A perennial herb with underground compound bulbs covered over by outer white thin scales and with simple, smooth, round stem, surrounded at the bottom by tubular leaf sheath. Leaves simple, long, flat, linear, flowers small, white in rounded umbels mixed with small bulbils, the entire umbel enclosed in a tear drop shaped membraneous spathe, flowers usually sterile. Parts used : Bulbs Chemical constituents Allicin, allinase, alliin, diallyl sulphide etc Properties & Uses The bulb is used as a vermifuge, diuretic, carminative, expectorant and stimulant. The oil is used for skin rashes, as ear drops, flatulence and colic. It is used as anthelminthic and emmenagogue. The juice of garlic is used for various ailments of the stomach including amoebic dysentery. It is used as antitubercular drug and in the treatment of epilepsy. Garlic is commonly used as a condiment and for flavouring and seasoning of food products. The oil from the bulb is used as a tonic, stimulant and vermifuge. Anticancer activity The chemoprotective action of garlic extract on 7,12- dimethylbenz anthracene (DMBA)- induced complete skin carcinogenesis system was studied in random bred 6-7 wk old, male Swiss albino mice. When garlic extract was topically applied twice daily for 3d every week, the incidences of tumours were reduced to 31.8 percentage(Rao et al 1990).Tumour reducing activity of extracts of eight commonly used spices in India were studied in mice transplanted intraperitoneally with Ehrlich ascites tumour. Oral administration of aqueous extract of garlic increased the percentage of life span of mice by 41.1 percent. Diallylsulphide , the major flavour component of garlic had a protective role in polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon- induced mouse skin carcinogenesis induced by DMBA or BaP. Abrus precatorius. Linn Family - Fabaceae English name - Crab's eye Sanskrit name - Gunja Hindi name - Gunchi Malayalam name - Kunni Ayurvedic Properties: Rasa - Tikta, kashaya, madhura Guna - Ruksha, Tikshna Virya - Usna Vipaka - Katu, madhura Actions - Kaphavathahara, vedanasthapana, kesya, vrsya    Habit & Habitat A climber found throughout India, upto an altitude of 1050 m in the outer Himalayas. Description A deciduous wiry climber with tough branches, leaves pinnate with many pairs of leaflets, the rachis ending in a spine, the leaflets oblong, rounded at both ends, thinly membranous, flowers pink, fruits pods, seeds scarlet with a black spot or sometimes pure white. Parts used: Roots, leaves, seeds Chemical constituents Abrine, Abralin, stigmasterol, precatorine, abrectorin, premtorin etc Properties & Uses The root and leaves possess diuretic, emetic and tonic properties and are used for gonorrhoea and jaundice. A decoction of the leaves is widely used for cough, cold and colic. The leaf juice is employed as a cure for hoarseness and mixed with oil it is applied to painful swellings. Seeds are purgative, tonic and aphrodisiac. The seeds are administered internally in the affections of the nervous system and their paste is applied locally in stiffness of shoulder joint and paralysis. It is also useful in diarrhoea, dysentery and possess anthelminthic activity. Anticancer activity A protein extract isolated from the seeds showed anti tumour activity on Yoshida sarcoma in rats and a fibrosarcoma in mice. The intraperitoneal route of administration was more effective than the subcutaneous injections. The extract had a direct cytotoxic effect on the tumour cells. Vacuolation and disruption of cytoplasm accompanied by karyolysis and chromosomal abnormalities were seen in ascites tumour cells treated with the protein in vivo. This was also confirmed by in vitro studies. The tumour cell incubated with the extract showed cellular pathology, decreased viable cell counts and prolongation of survival period of the tumour transplanted animals (Subba Reddy and Sirsi, 1969). The aqueous extract of the seeds when tested against Ehrlich's ascites carcinoma in transplanted mouse tumours for anticancer activity was toxic and all the experimental animals died before the experiment was completed at the test doses of 3 and 12 mg/kg I.p (Pal et al, 1968) Out of the various fractions of purified proteins of the seeds' studied for their haemaagglutinating properties, toxicity to rats and antitumour activity against Yoshida ascites sarcoma in rats, only fraction (A5b)possessed antitumour activity (Lalithakumari et al, 1971) Acacia catechu. Linn Family - Mimosaceae English name - Cutch tree Sanskrit name  - Khadira Hindi name - Kattha Malayalam name - Karingali Ayurvedic Properties: Rasa - Kashaya, Tikta Guna  - Laghu, Ruksha Virya  - Sita Vipaka - Katu Actions - Kaphapithahara Habit & Habitat A moderate-sized deciduous tree with a light feathery crown occuring throughout India. Description A moderate sized deciduous tree with dark greyish or brown rough bark and hooked short spines, leaves bipinnately compound, leaflets 30-50 pairs, flowers pale yellow, sessile in peduncled axillary spikes, fruits flat brown pods, shiny and with a triangular beak at the apex and narrowed at the base, seeds 3-10 per pod. Parts used: Bark, Heartwood. Chemical constituents Tannins, gum resin mucilage, catechin, epicatechin, saponins etc. Properties & Uses Kattha , a resinous extract is regarded as astringent, cooling and digestive, used for relaxed conditions of throat, toothache, mouth and gums, also in cough and diarrhoea. Externally it is employed as an astringent and as a cooling application to ulcers, boils and eruptions of the skin. It is reported to be an antileprotic drug. Anticancer activity Catechin, the main phenolic constituents found in the plant was found as chemopreventive agent in benzopyrene-induced forestomach tumours in Swiss mice and methyl (acetoxymethy) nitrosamine-induced oral mucosal tumours in Syrian golden hamsters. Catechin in drinking water significantly inhibited the tumour burden and tumour incidence in both the tumour models. The indication of oral tumours in golden hamsters was delayed by catechin. Adjuvent chemoptevention utilizing catechin inhibited both the gross tumour yield and burden more effectively than when compared to individual components in both the models. It was also found that a single injection of catechin to male swiss mice induced increased forestomach and hepatic glutathione S- transferase activity when compared to the controls (Azuine and Bhide, 1994) Albizia lebbeck. Linn Family - Mimosaceae English name - East Indian Walnut Sanskrit name  - Sirisa Hindi name - Siris Malayalam name - Nenmenivaka Ayurvedic Properties: Rasa - Madhura,Tikta, Kashaya Guna - Laghu, Ruksha, Tikshna Virya - Sita Vipaka - Katu Actions - Visanasana, vedanasthapana, sirovirechana Habit & Habitat A large, erect, unarmed, deciduous, spreading tree, common all over India.. Description A medium to large sized unarmed deciduous tree with an umbrella shaped crown and grey to dark brown rough irregularly cracked bark, leaves bipinnate, pinnae 2-4 pairs, leaflets 5-9 pairs with glands, flowers white, fragrant, in globose umbellate heads, fruits long, characteristic pods, thin, pale yellow, smooth, shiny, reticulately veined above the seed, seeds 4-12 , pale brown, ellipsoid, compressed. Parts used:Bark, flowers, seeds Chemical constituents Saponins, Sapogenins, Acacic acid etc. Properties & Uses The bark has acrid taste. It is recommended for bronchitis, leprosy, paralysis and helminth infections. Both bark and seeds are astringent , useful in piles and diarrhoea and act as tonic. The root bark and gum are used as dental powder for strengthening the gums. The leaves are used in night blindness. Anticancer activity The 50 percent ethanolic extracts of the root in a preliminary screening showed anticancer activity against sarcoma 180 in mice , effect on CVS in dog,/ cat. Anticancer activity in human epidermoid carcinoma of the nasopharynx in tissue culture. Alstonia scholaris. Linn Family - Apocyanaceae English name - Match stick tree Sanskrit name - Sapthaparna Hindi name - Saitan-Kajhad Malayalam name - Ezhilampala Ayurvedic Properties: Rasa - Tiktha, Kashaya Guna - Laghu, Snigdha, Sara Virya - Usna Vipaka - Katu Actions - Kaphavathahara, Hrdya, Dipana Habit & Habitat It is a large evergreen tree found almost throughout India upto an altitude of 600 m. Description A large evergreen tree with a straight often fluted and buttressed bole, bark greyish brown, rough, milky latex, leaves 4-7 in a whorl, coriaceous, flowers small, greenish white, numerous in umbellate panicles, very shortly scented, fruits follicles, seeds papillose with brown hair at each end. Parts used: Bark, leaves, milky exudate Chemical constituents Villastonine, Echitamine, Picralinal, Scholarine, Nareline etc Properties and uses The bark of Aistonia scholaris regarded as a bitter tonic possesses astringent, anthelminthic and galactagogue properties. It is useful in heart diseases, asthma, chronic diarrhoea and to stop bleeding from wounds. The drug is having good action in cancer like conditions. Anticancer activity Echitamine chloride from the bark dissolved in saline (10 mg/kg bw) and injected subcutaneously for 20 din methylcholanthrene — induced fibrosarcoma rats exhibited significant regression in tumour growths. Recent research works in cancer management show that cancer is not hopeless. The disease has to be fought on all fronts with sustained vigour , for then only it is possible to bring hope to the hearts of the patients and their near and dear ones. Herbal drugs are very useful for the treatment of these disease and more studies are needful . 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ROLE OF RASA OUSHADHIS IN PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT OF AGEING

From The Vault: Dr. Rukmini Dal Koti - Senior Research Fellow (Ay) Dr. Srinivas Pitta - Research Officer (Ay), ALRCA Dr. R.K.Swamy - Deputy Director (Ay), ALRCA ( A Lakshmipathi Research Center For Ayurveda) Chennai.  Abstract: Rasashastra, the chemistry of Ayurveda is being practiced since centuries by human race to maintain their health and body, which helps them to reach the salvation (Moksha). Rasa scholars were firm in their belief that a healthy physical body (DehaSiddhi) is the key to achieve the above and the work done by various Acharya also reflects the same i.e. priority is given to develop a healthy body by using various Rasa drugs. Jara is being the natural phenomenon in this incarnation by the supreme, a healthy; disease Free State can be achieved with the use of Rasa Rasayana drugs in that particular stage of the human life. The minimal dose (Alpamatra) of Rasa drugs makes an added advantage to treat the sick as well as healthy. "Rasa" Oushadhis, the drugs of mercurial origin by name but in practice it means all the medicines of mercurial kingdom (minerals) having their better effect in the management of Jara. Although every drug of Rasashastra possess both therapeutic and Rasayana properties an attempt is made to highlight preciely the Rasayana property of the Rasa drugs in the present context. Introduction Rasa Rasayana drugs, the Rasa drugs that are used for Rasayana purpose are very much established in usage with the mankind for longevity of their lives. Jara in common practice called as Ageing is the natural degenerative process in the human life cycle. The Rasa preparations are confidently practiced in this particular stage as the dosage, tastelessness of almost all the Rasa preparations making their usage convenient. One more important thing is to be remembered its immortal potency, nature and palatability i.e. tastelessness of theses drugs assure one to prescribe these in the elderly. Ageing being common in this world in due course cannot be denied. This particular stage of the human kind can get through successfully if the person is healthy. In the present world, because of the lifestyle, occupation and demanding schedules the man acquire ageing process early along with so many life style disorders i.e. Diabetes (Prameha), IBS, Acid peptic disorders, Chronic Bronchitis etc., making to man kind experience a lot and forcing them to reach to this stage untimely. By using certain drugs of Rasa kingdom like Rasa, Abhraka, Vanga, Naga, Silajatu etc., man kind can safely and effectively post pone/ pass this stage of life i.e. ageing. The usage of Silajatu as a Rasayana, adding the Swarna, Rajata, Tamra, Pravala & Loha in Brahmi Rasayana, the simple combination of Dhatri and Loha, Swarnaprasana along with ghee in new born baby, usage of muktyadi churns in kasa, Swarna as an antidote for poison in visha chikista, Ayaskriti (by name) by Susruta etc., by our ancient scientists can elicit the importance of Rasa drugs in therapeutics. Here are the few important Rasa drugs, which usually come across in combination with the other drugs of mercurial kingdom and are very commonly used. Rasa (Mercury), an interior drug for the whole mercurial kingdom in Rasashastra. Mythologically, it is considered as bija (semen) of Lord Siva attributed with very pious qualities and a very commonly used ingredient in many compound drugs. Rasa makes the human kind free from Jara and vyadhi . As it is available in the deep layers of earth crest it is mixed with the impurities. So, it is subjected to purifactory methods (sodhana) followed by incineration (marana) it makes competent to use in therapeutics. Our Acharyas clearly mentioned that, when mercury used in native form i.e. without subjecting it to sodhana and marana will acts as a poison where as after these procedures it is a nectar'. Various Rasa yoga i.e. preparations exclusively of Mercury are indicated to use in the Jara vyadhis and also to those keep them healthy in that stage of the life. The very important drug of the Rasashastra Purnachandroday rasa, uttered with different names by different scholars is a drug of choice to the Ayurvedic Physicians of the present society for so many chronic cases like Bronchitis, Tuberculosis and Oligo-spermia etc. It is commonly practiced (heard) by elders of Andhra region that, those who wish to act sexually vigorously they opt for this Rasa drug. It's a wrong concept that it acts only to increase libido. Usually the libido will be lost /lessened in elderly so the same as the other dhatus. Particularly in this context the role of Purnachandrodaya Rasa in Dhatu kshinata or in physiological decaying of the body can be attributed. Mercury being the main drug in compound drugs like Siddha Makara Dvaja, Rasasindhura, Shadguna Sindhura etc., and their usage in senile disorders can easily attributed to the drug Mercury. The yogavahi nature of the mercury is the main feature for its usage in almost all diseases. Rasa (Parada) can be administered in incurable diseases also'. Gandhaka (Sulphur), a very close alchemy friend of mercury routinely come across almost in all Rasa compounds except some. Parada when combined with Gandhaka the toxicity as well as the efficacy of Rasa will get effected. Different proportions of Rasa and Gandhaka in the preparation of Rasa Sindhura and their different therapeutic indications can support the above. Gandhaka was supposed to be one of the most important substance, which was used along with Parada to form basic material i.e. Kajjali for scores of Herbo- mineral preparations .It has very important place in Therapeutics. Abhraka (Mica), another important drug in mercurial kingdom, is a very common ingredient of Rasa yoga. Myth logically, the qualities are equated with tejas of Goddess Parvathi. Its boon to all vata pitta disorders. It was proved by the practicing Rasa scholars that, when it used in incinerated form (Sataputi), builds the immunity so that defend the secondary infections like chronic bronchitis etc., Almost all the drugs which act on respiratory system contain Abhraka along with other drugs. In General also Abhraka was highlighted in classics as. It was quoted as best Rasayana as well as Aphrodisiac4. Vanga (Tin), is another drug in Rasashastra use in various ailments like Prameha, Genitor-urinary disorders etc, Indians are conscious about Vanga since centuries, but there is not much information can be gathered in Samhitas. Vanga is main ingredient in so many Pramehahara Dravya and for Genito uinary disorders like Trivanga Bhasma, Vasanta Kusumakara Rasa, Vanga Bhasma, Pushpa dhanwa Rasa etc. Here it is to be recollected that, one of the properties of Vanga is "Lavanyakara". The word usually implies in developing the physical beauty. At the same time it can be tried in ladies who have masculine features like developing unwanted hair, Coarseness of the skin etc. Even now it is approved drug of choice for the nulliparous couple. Vanga and Naga are not used individually for Rasayana therapy. They are used along with Swarna, Rajata etc metals for this purpose. Silajatu, is a drug since Samhita period is good for Rasayana purpose and is another pearl in Rasa Ocean. It also quoted in various diseases as a drug of choice for so many diseases and it is one of the main ingredients in Arogyavardhini vati and chandraprabha vati which are considered as sankha and chakra of Lord Narayana. Both Arogyavardhini vati and Chandraprabha vati plays an important role in Ayurvedic therapeutics. There is no curable disease on earth, which could not be destroyed by silajatu. If it is consumed in proper combination, proper way and in a proper time can bestow with plenty of energy. While describing its properties in Rasa Ratna Samucchaya it is said that, it possesses all the properties of Rasa, Uparasa, Suta (parada), Ratna and Lohd Hence it can ultimately conquer senile diseases'. It conquers senility diseases, helps in strengthening of the body, and improves the intellect and memory. Though most of the diseases were claimed to be cured by Silajatu, it seems it acts more effectively in Medovaha srotas and mutravaha srotas disorders'. Dosage as per Charaka Pravara (large dose): - 4 tola(46gms) - 49 days/7weeks Madhyama (medium dose): - 2 tola (23gms) - 21 days/3weeks Avara (small dose): -1 tola (12gms) - 7 days/1 week The above dose is comparatively very high in present context. The more practical dose can be adoptable which may be from 2 Ratti to 8 Ratti (250mg to lgm). Anupana It is administered along with any of the liquids like cows milk, butter milk, meat soup, porridge prepared by mudga, plain water, cow's urine and fruit juice and other herbal juice or decoctions. The food which is vidahi and guru should be avoided, especially kulattha not be consumed in any form. Apart from this rigorous exercise, hot sunshine, sweeping wind and meat of pigeons and kakamachi are also avoided. Safety of medicines It is a false belief developed about Rasa compounds that these are not safe and not to be used in old Age. It may be true if they are used in crude form because all the Rasa drugs originate from the layers of the earth and these are associated with the toxins of the earth. None of the Rasa drugs are used in crude form except AgniJara and Sarnudraphena. Rasa scholars are so wise and so scientific. They have explained each and every step of purifications and Incinerations of different kinds to each and every drug of Rasashastra (excepting a few). In purifactory methods the particular Rasa drug is subjected to various processes with various herbal decoctions commonly being used are Triphala, Bhringaraja decoction, Guduchi decoction, Gomutra, Kanji (A special recipe of Rasa Shastra exclusive for the Samskara of parada), Lemon juice etc. A point to be noted here is there is no single herbal drug with which all the Rasa compounds are subjected to purification process. Each every drug in this world possesses a definite action. Action of the drug on the human body as it does good / bad on it will make the drug to use further and can be considered safe. Before prescribing the drug to the patient a preview of the status of bio chemical parameters of the body is important. A drug ingested when the excretory functions of the body is not in a proper status will definitely impacts negatively in the form of adverse reactions. For each and every drug of Rasa Shastra a clear dosage schedule, Anupana, pathya, Apathya, symptoms develop after ingestion of improperly/ misused Rasa preparations and their treatment are mentioned in detail. Conclusion: Although Rasa drugs established since from the Samhita period, their usage reached its peak in the medieval fferiod only. A very common utterance of Rasa scholars with a very great confidence "Siddhe rase karishyami nirdaridramidam jagat" can give an idea about the development of Rasashastra. To get rid the severely effected illness physically and socially the Rasa scholars might developed various Rasa compounds. They made the pre-clinical studies before the usage it in therapeutics. A trail with the conversion of lower metals into higher metals (Loha siddhi) before the usage on human body (DehaSiddhi) is the ultimate for Rasa scholars to make the human body as like that of Higher metals which are immortal.The physicians are prescribing the Rasa drugs since centuries and succeeded. Jam is being common to body and there is degeneration of dhatus in this particular stage there is strict necessary to use the Rasa drugs, which are immortal. A common prescription from so many Ayurvedic physicians Puma chandrodaya rasa is in practice since centuries. The usage of Swarna compounds for certain chronic conditions like arthritis, yakshina etc is proven and is very much established in therapeutics. Rajata Bhasma, Chandra prabha vati are usual drugs of choice for the common symptom of the old age, ie. Bhrama (Vertigo). Chyavan prasa is being used from the Samhita period also contains some of the Rasa compounds among the other ingredients. A short-term usage of Abhraka Bhasma, Silajatu, Vanga Bhasma and other mercurial compounds for the diseased who are suffering with Madhumeha, kasa (Chronic bronchitis) will definitely help the human kind to lead their life healthy. Benign prostrate hypertrophy (BPH) is being common occurrence for the elderly male is taken care easily with Vanga Bhasma. Cystocele is also being commonly observed in gravid elderly women also taken care with Vanga Bhasma with little pelvic exercises. A part of ageing every woman attends menopause in her life cycle. This stage usually associated with so many gynecological conditions like fibroid uterus, ovarian cysts etc symptoms being menorrhagia can be taken care with Rasa compounds like Vaikranta and Silajatu. Any drugs to act upon the body the normal levels of the Bio chemical parameters are very important. Likewise Rasa drugs also safely and confidently practiced provided the human body fulfills the above criteria. In the present society physicians are completely dependent upon the pharmaceutical companies for their drug supply. So, a humble request with the pharmaceutical companies from the author side is provide the drug genuinely so that false belief upon the usage of Rasa compounds can be explained by showing their therapeutic efficacy and safety profile of the Rasa compounds. Read the full article

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CYTOTOXICITY AGAINST CANCER CELLS AND IN VITRO ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF SOLANUM NIGRUM, COLEUS AROMATICUS AND IPOMEA PES-TIGRIDIS.

From The Vault: Therasilin Louis, P. Yuvaraj, Dr. V. Madhavachandran, -  (Experimental Pharmacology Unit, Nagarjuna Herbal Concentrates Ltd., Kalayanthani 12.0, Thodupuzha, Kerala). Dr. Nishanth Gopinath, Dr. S.J.Rekha - (S1S0DIA Educational, Medical and Charitable Society, Kollakkadavu Chengannoor, Kerala.)  Abstract:- Five extracts from three medicinal plants with cancer-related ethno botanical uses have been subjected to a bio screening study to detect cytotoxic activity and antioxidant activity. The plants studied were: Solanum nigrum, Coleus aromaticus and Ipomea pes-tigridis. Cytotoxicity towards Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma (EAC) cells and free radical scavenging activity were assessed. The results obtained indicate that Solanum nigrum, Coleus aromaticus and 1pomea pes-tigridis contained cytotoxic compounds against EAC cells. Solanum nigrum ethanol extract have more activity against EAC cells than the other plant extracts. S. nigrum ethanol extract 10mg and Smg/ml were showing 100% death in EAC cells.. All of the plants were also studied for their free radical scavenging activity and total polyphenolic content. We found that free radical scavenging activity is more in I. pes-tigridis. So we came to the conclusion that I tigridis is a good anti oxidant and free radical scavenger while cytotoxicity against cancer cells is very less. Solanum nigrum on the contrary is having very strong cytotoxicity against cancer cells but poor anti oxidant property. A rational combination of both these herbs might give a new phyto medicine in cancer therapy. Keywords: Cytotoxicity, EAC cells, Anti oxidant, Polyphenol 1.0. Introduction Traditional and indigenous systems of medicines have persisted for many centuries even where modern health care is readily available. A considerable proportion of people in developing countries depend on traditional medicines for their primary health needs. The world health organization has called the attention of many countries to the ever increasing interest of the public in the use of herbal medicines and encourages them to identify and exploit those aspects of traditional medicine that provide safe and effective remedies (Akah et al., 1997). The acquisition of new agents with chemotherapeutic value in the fight against cancer is obviously a medical problem of high importance, but the development of new drugs in the cancer field is a difficult task given that anticancer agents must be lethal to be able to incapacitate tumor cells without doing excessive damage to normal cells (Potter, 1983). Plants have been demonstrated to be a very viable source of clinically relevant anticancer compounds. However, ethno pharmacologic information has been poorly utilized in the past in the search for new principles against cancer (Mongelli et al, 2000). In many ethno medical systems, reports of specific uses of plants against tumor are rarely found, mainly because cancer is a disease that involves a complex set of signs and symptoms (Souza Brito and Souza Brito, 1993). The present study is aimed to determine the cytotoxic activity in Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma (EAC) cells and free radical scavenging activity of certain medicinal plants such as Solanum nigrum, Coleus aromaticus and Ipomea pes-tigridis. 2. Materials and methods 2.1. Plant materials Solanum nigrum, Coleus aromaticus and Ipomea pes-tigridis were collected from Idukki, Kerala and the botanical identification was performed by botanists from the department of Pharmacognosy, Nagarjuna Herbal Concentrates Ltd, Thodupuzha, Idukki, Kerala. These plant materials (whole plant) were dried under shade and powdered and used for different extraction. The powder was suspended with hexane and stirred for 4hrs in a magnetic stirrer. Then it was filtered and the residue was dried well and added with chloroform, ethyl acetate, butanol and water in a raw and repeated as above. The filtrate was dried using rotary vacuum evaporator at below 40°C. The yield of extracts is given in the Table I. For cytotoxicity study, the dried extracts were dissolved with minimum quantity of dimethyl sulphoxide (2% DMSO), then diluted 10-fold with phosphate buffered saline (PBS). For antioxidant activity the ethanol extract was dissolved in 80% methanol. 2.2. Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma cells (EAC) Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma (EAC) cells were purchased from Amala Cancer Research Institute, Thrissur, Kerala, and were maintained in the mice, inside the peritoneal cavity by weekly intra peritoneal inoculation. 2.3. Determination of the in vitro cytotoxic activity. EAC cells were separated from peritoneal cavity of mice and then three times washed with ice and cold phosphate buffered saline (PBS, pH 7.4). Cells were diluted as 0.1 ml containing one million cells. 0.1 ml of cells and various concentrations of the different extracts of various plants were made up to 1 ml with PBS. This was incubated for 3 hours at 37°C. The viability of the cells was determined by Trypan Blue Exclusion method (Subramoniam et al., 2005). 2.4. In-vitro antioxidant activity Total poly phenol content was estimated by Yu et al (2002), free radical scavenging activity by 1,1- Diphenly-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) was assayed by Burits and Bucar (2000) and ,2'-azinobis-(3-ethyl-benzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) was assayed by Re et al (1999). 3.0. Results 3.1. Effects of the in vitro cytotoxic activity. Cytotoxicity study was performed with EAC cells to determine the cytotoxic effect of different extracts of S. nigrum, C. aromaticus and I. pes-tigridis. The cell viability assay was performed by trypan blue exclusion method of S. nigrum, C. aromaticus and I. pes-tigridis on EAC cells is shown in Table 11. In our results three concentrations of ethanolic extract of S. nigrum have obtained 100% EAC cell death when compared to hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate and water extracts. Ethanol and water extracts of C. aromatics have equal cytotoxicity activity > 87% cell death, but 100% cell death was never achieved even at 10 mg/ml. The plant I. pes-tigridis hexane extract have obtained high percentage of cytotoxicity (> 90%) compared to other extracts. 3.2. Effect of the antioxidant activity of S. nigrum, C. aromaticus and I. pes-tigridis. In vitro antioxidant and total polyphenolic content of S. nigrum, C. aromaticus and I. pes-tigridis were shown in table III. The IC50 values of DPPH radical scavenging activity of these three plants are very high. S. nigrum, C. aromaticus and I. pes-tigridis have the IC50 value of 656.5, 275.3 and 141.8 lig /m1 respectively. The S. nigrum had very high IC50 value compared to other plants. The same pattern was observed in ABTS method. The IC50 values of S. nigrum, C. aromaticus and I. pes-tigridis were 234.1, 166.3 and 122.7 lig /ml respectively. The total polyphenolic content of S. nigrum, C. aromaticus and I. pes-tigridis were 8.2, 10.3 and 20.6 mg/g Gallic acid equivalents extract. 4.0. Discussion Prevention and, possibly, cure of cancer with traditional herbal drugs and/or its active constituents is very much needed to get relief from the dreaded disease cancer, which is on the raise, among other things, due to exposure to carcinogenic agents and change of life style (Subramoniam, 2005). In this study, the cytotoxic activity on EAC cells and antioxidant activity of S. nigrum, C. aromaticus, I. pes-tigridis was studied. Plant and its active constituents such as flavonoids, terpenes, alkaloids (Osawa et al., 1990; Keith et al., 1990; Di Carlo et al., 1999), and so on have received considerable attention in recent years due to their diverse pharmacological properties including cytotoxic and cancer chemo preventive effects (Roja and Heble, 1994). Only a few of them have been scientifically explored. Scientific studies of plants used in ethno medicine led to the discovery of many valuable drugs. Cancer cells can develop resistance to apoptosis. It results from the defects in one or more key molecules in the apoptotic pathways or over activity of anti apoptotic factors that lead to the proliferation of cancer cells (Hanahan and Weinberg, 2000). The trypan blue exclusion method is most common and reliable method to assess the cytotoxicity / anticancer activity of natural products and synthetic agents. In our study, we analyzed different extracts of S. nigrum, C. aromaticus and I. pes-tigridis in various concentrations. The results show that S. nigrum ethanol extract reduced the viability of EAC cells in a concentration dependent manner, which indicates the cytotoxic effects of S. nigrum. But in case of C. aromaticus and!. pes-tigridis both were having less cytotoxic effect on EAC cells. Among the three plants S. nigrum have more cytotoxic activity. Both 5 and 10 mg/ml have 100% cell death when studied using Trypan Blue Exclusion cytotoxicity activity in EAC cells. Free radicals may be important in carcinogenesis at multiple tumor sites (Sies, 1997). Phyto chemical and dietary antioxidants are known to decrease the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disorders. The antioxidant activity may be a result of one of the following specific scavenging of reactive free radicals, scavenging of oxygen-containing compounds such as hydrogen peroxide, or chelation to metals (Priyadarsini, 1997). It is well documented that certain plant compounds, particularly; polyphenolic component like flavonoids has the capability to induce apoptosis as well as reversal of resistance to apoptosis (Cardile et al., 2003; Leone et al., 2003; Lee et al., 2003). Our study clearly proved that I. pes-tigridis is the most efficient free radical scavenger among these three herbs. We could also conclude that S. nigrum affects the viability of EAC cells due to the presence of active constituents like biflavonoids and other polyphenolic compounds (Vjayalaksmi et al., 1996), which may be responsible for the anticancer activity of S. nigrum. In our conclusion S. nigrum ethanol extract has strong evidence to have cytotoxicity activity in EAC cells. We have a strong notion that the combination of S. nigrum and I .pes-tigridis may prove to be a very effective phyto medicine against cancer. We recommend for further studies in S. nigrum and L pes-tigridis jointly and separately in animal models and for efficacy, toxicity and optimum dosage.  Table-1. Yield of Extracts of S. nigrum, C. aromaticus and I. Pes-tigridis Plants Hexane Chloroform Ethyl acetate Ethanol Water S. nigrum C.aromaticus I.Pes-tigridis 1.4 1.28 1.29 1.8 2.35 1.12 2.7 5.24 2.15 8 12.54 2.29 10.12 23.13 5.06 Table 2. Cytotoxicity activity of S. nigrum, C. aromaticus and I. pes-tigridis on EAC cells Extracts Concentration S. nigrum C. aromaticus I. pes-tigridis Hexane 10mg/ml 100.00% 90.80% 99.20% 5mg/m1 100.00% 83.28% 98.63% lmg/m1 98.40% 71.11% 92.14% Chloroform 10mg/ml 100.00% 95.85% 94.73% 5mg/ml 100.00% 93.29% 93.64% 1mg/ml 95.20% 82.64% 85.14% Ethyl acetate 10mg/ml 100.00% 95.58% 93.50% 5mg/ml 97.50% 87.59% 92.83% 1mg/ml 93.20% 65.46% 86.24% Ethanol 10mg/ml 100.00% 94.36% 90.14% 5mg/ml 100.00% 92.34% 89.08% 1mg/ml 100.00% 87.25% 78.22% Water 10mg/ml 100.00% 95.75% 90.85% 5mg/ml 100.00% 94.73% 88.82% 1mg/ml 92.12% 87.12% 77.58% All the concentration were prepared 10, 5 and 1 mg of raw powder equivalent corresponding extract. The extracts were dissolved in DMSO. Table-3. Total polyphenolic content, DPPH and ABTS assay of S. nigrum, C. aromaticus and I. pes-tigridis ethanol extract Plant name DPPH radical scavenging assay (IC 50)(pg /m1) ABTS radical scavenging assay (IC 50)(pg /ml) Total phenol mg gallic acid ( equivalents/g dry weight extract) Coleus aromaticus 275.3 ± 3.5 166.3 ± 2.4 10.3 ± 2.4  Ipotnea pes-tigridis 141.8 ± 2.7 122.7 ± 1.9 20.6 ± 1.3 Solanwn nigrum 656.2 ± 5.2 234.1 ± 3.4 8.2 ± 0.6 Values are mean ± SD. The values were obtained from three different experiments performed in duplication. Read the full article

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CONTRACEPTIEVES IN AYURVEDA

From The Vault: Dr.Santosh.N Belavadi M.D (AYU), Dr.Mamata.S.Belavadi B.A.M.S - Lecturer & In charge of Department of P.G studies in Panchakarma, D.G.M Ayurveda Medical College, GADAG-582103 , KARNATAKA The methods or the measures which prevent unwanted conception are contraception . In modem science several types of contraceptive methods have been explained which specifically acts on Sperm, Ovum and at Hormonal level. Some of the methods are for female and some others for male. Among these, few are safer methods while few others may sometimes cause complications. Proper awareness and administration of the methodology will ensure the exact benefit without any complications. Conception of healthy offspring, avoiding unwanted pregnancy, maintaining intervals between two pregnancies and controlling population in the family as well as society are the benefits of contraception and planned pregnancy. Somany principles are explained and followed since ancient time like following Brahamcharya, marriage after attaining desired age, observing contraindicated days and safe period for sex, measures to control coitus and chanting mantras for destroying veerya of sukra & arthava to prevent conception. Some preparations compiled from classics are noted here for further research and studies in this area. CONTRACEPTIVE PREPARATIONS FOR ORAL CONSUMPTION + Oral administration of Pippali, Vidanga and shuddha Tankana equal quantity in powder form with milk during menstrual cycle. + Oral consumption of kanji with Japakusuma and purana guda with chanting matra during menstrual cycle. + TanduJiya mula mixed with Tanduliya jala during the last 3days menstrual cycle.Taleesapatra and Gairika in equal quantity at the dose of lOgrams along with sheetajala from the 4t11 day of menstrual cycle. + Patha patra mardana with jala after rutukla snana. + Sarshapabeeja along with tanduliyakjala in rutukala for the the duration of 7days. + Sarshapa, Shafi and Sharkara in equal quantity with tanduliyaka. + Sharshapa dipped in Tila taila for 3days and consumed for 3days during menstrual cycle + Chitrakamula purified in tanduliyakajala is taken internally after rutukala for the duration of 3days. + Shalmalipushpa , Ksheeriruksha along with palashabeeja and madhya for 15days. PREPARATIONS FOR EXTERNAL APPLICATION + Yonipichu dharana of Saindavalavana dipped in Tzlataila before coitus and follow the gamana. + Dharana of datthura churna in yoni. + Tying the root of Datthura on the waist during krishnapaksha chaturdashi at the time of inter­ course + Applying Palashbeeja churna mixed with honey to the garbhashayamukha + Appl ying the powder of Jatamamsimula, Lang alimula, Kiratatikta, Devadali and Koshataki over the nabhipradesha _ + Applying paste of Kushumbha and Punarnava overpada + Applying paste of Chatakaanda-, Ksheera, Sahadevi, Tilataila Swetakamala and honey in equal quantity over nabhi of the purusha. + Prakshalana of ga rbhashaya w i t h Saindavalavana, Spatika, Nimbukarasa and shudhajala after coitus. + Carrying Varthi in garbhashaya made from the fine powder of Puranaguda, Madanaphala, Yavakshara, Dronapushpibeeja dipped in mandugalliksheera for several hour and dried. + Dhoopana of Nimbhatwak churna to the yonimukha prior to inter-course. + Atharvaveda describes chanting of mantra before coitus to avoids the garbha. Read the full article

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A CLINICAL APPROACH TO THE STUDY OF TRIDOSHA THEORY AND ITS APPLICATION IN MODERN THERAPEUTICS WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO THE EFFECT ON SOME NANATMAJA DISEASES.

From The Vault: SUJEET KUMAR - Junior Resident, Ill year, B.K. PWIVEIN - Reader and Head Deptt. of 5iddhanta darshana, N.P.RAI -  Professor and Head Deptt. of Kayachikitsa I.M.S. B.H.U. Abstract:- The study was carried out to assess effect of Vasa, Pitta and Kapha on human physiology. In the present clinical study, total 60 patients of Nanarmaja vikaras (20 patients for Nanatmaja Vata vikara, 20 patients for Nanatmaja Pitta vikara and 20 patients for Nanatmaja Kapha vikara) were recruited in three experimental groups. Each group was treated with an established treatment of modern medicine; symptomatically viz. patients of Nanatmaja Vata vikara were treated by Antianxiety drugs, patients of Nanatmaja Pitta vikara were treated by lactulose and patients of Nanatmaja Kapha vikara, received Anabolic steroids. All 60 patients were interviewed and examined before and after treatment. After treatment the patients were again interviewed and examined and all the changes compared with the initial status (pre treatment) used for data making in the present study. The intragroup comparison for objective and subjective parameters was done using paired 't' test and x' test respectively. Here it was found that respiratory rate and pulse rate were increased to some extent in Nanatmaja vikara of all dosha In case of subjective parameters different results were observed. Keywords:- Nanatmaja vikara, Tridosha theory. Blood pressure, Aswapna, Haridratwa, Balasaka. INTRODUCTION:- Tridosha as said to be responsible for maintenance of homeostasis in the body and health is nothing but a state of equilibrium of Vata, Pitta and Kapha'. All diseases occur due to disturbance in the equilibrium between these three DOSHAS2. The present study is devoted to the study of Tridosha, applicable in modem science. As we know for same disease the way of defining disease differs in ancient and modem science, because they are based on different basic principles. Tridosha theory is one among these basic principles of Ayurveda. In present time, we are almost dependant on some tools and techniques which are gifted by modern science during clinical examination viz Manometer, Thermometer etc. Here it is our aim to know the effect of Tridosha on our body by using modem biomedical tools and techniques. Nanatmaja vikara: The endogenous diseases of specific type (Nanatmaja = Na +anatmaja = atmaja) are caused specifically by only one of the three dosha, without being combined with any other dosha. After careful study we found that these 80 types of Vata vikaras, 40 types of Pitta vikaras and 20 types of Kapha vikaras are actually symptoms / complaints of a patient and not really of diseases so they provide a way of quick diagnosis. The ratio of Vata, Pitta, Kapha is 4:2:1 in case of Nanatmaja vikaras respectively. One unit of Vata can produce 4 vikaras due to Asu and Chal guna, one unit Pitta can produce 2 vikaras due to its Tikshna and sar guna. The Manda and Sthir guna, of Kapha produces only one vikara. METHOD OF STUDY: 60 patients were selected for this study and interviewed and examined using a specific Proforma to obtain information about the disease and clinical features.Finally collected data were used for observation of this study. All 60 patients were divided into three groups each containing 20 patients of a Nanatmaja vikara. All the three groups were treated by using established treatment mentioned in modern medicine viz. 1 ) Aswapna (Nanatmaja Vata vikara):-Sleep onset insomnia is often Psychophysiologicd- An anxious preoccupation with the perceived inability to sleep adequately. Hence the patients of this group were treated with antianxiety drugs°. 2) Haridratwa (Nanatmaja Pitta vikara):-Patients of this group were treated with lactulose. 3) Balasaka (Nanatmaja Kapha vikara):- Patients of this group were treated with anabolic steroids' Only those patients were recruited for studies who improved / cured after treatment. So changes in clinical features observed were used for data making in this study SELECTION OF PATIENTS:- a) Inclusion criteria:- i) Age: - All age groups ii) Sex: - Patient of both sexes iii) Patients Category: All the 60 patients were selected randomly from Kayachikitsa OPD, IMS, BHU. For this study samples were divided in three groups— (a) The Group I consisted of 20 patients of Aswapna Nanatmaja vikara, of Vata. (b) The Group II consisted of 20 patients of Haridratwa Nanatmaja vikara of Pitta. (C) The Group III Consisted of 20 Patients of Balasaka Nanatmaja vikara" of Kapha. Only Nanatmaja vikara of different dosha were considered for this study. Only one Nanatmaja vikara of one dosha was subjected to study. iv) Habitat: -All patients were selected from Sadharan desa. Nanatmaja vikara may be dosha vrridhi / dosha kshaya avastha. b) Exclusion criteria :- 1) We have not considered influence of diet in this study. 2) Season in which Patient improved / cured not considered in present study. 3) Degree of dosha prakopa or dosha kshaya was not considered in present study. 4) Patients suffering from chronic diseases were not included for study of Kapha dosha. 5) For Haridratwa, Patients suffering with obstructive jaundice were excluded from this study. PARAMETER'S FOR ASSESSMENT:- The assessment of the effect of established treatment mentioned in modern medicine, on these Nanatmaja vikara was based on following objective and subjective parameters. Objective parameter:- Pulse rate, Respiratory rate. Subjective parameter:- Bowel habit and Bladder habit . GUIDELINE FOR MEASUREMENT - OF PULSE RATE AND RESPIRATORY RATE For measurement of Pulse rate, Respiratory rate standard method was used. A) Bowel habit:- Bowel habit of patient was studied for its three features a) Frequency b) Consistency (hard or loose stool) c) Amount Each of these 3 features were divided into 2 category increased or decreased. (a) I) Gradation for increased frequency:- a) 0 = Normal frequency (1-2 times/day) b) 1 = 3-4 times/day c) 2 = > 4 times/ day II) Gradation for decreased frequency:- a) 0 = Normal frequency b) 1 = Stool passing alternate day's c) 2 = Stool passing after 2-3 day's (b) I) Gradation of increased consistency a) 0 = Normal consistency b) 1 = Hard stool with out difficulty in defecation c) 2 = Hard stool with difficulty in defecation. II) Gradation for Decreased Consistency a) 0 = Normal stool b) 1 = Watery but formed stool c) 2 = Watery stool unformed (c) I) Gradation for increased amount a) 0 = Normal amount b) 1 = Increased up to 20% of normal c) 2 = Increased > 20% of normal II) Gradation for decreased amount a) 0 = Normal amount b) 1 = Decreased up to 20% of Normal c) 2 = Decreased > 20% of Normal B) Bladder habit:- Bladder habit of patient was studied for its two features viz frequency and amount. (a) I) Gradation for increased Amount a) 0 = Normal amount b) 1 = Increased up to 20% of normal c) 2 = Increased > 20% normal II) Gradation for decreased amount a) 0 = Normal amount b) 1 = Decreased up to 20% of normal c) 2 = Decreased > 20% of normal (b) I) Gradation of increased frequency a) 0 = Normal frequency (5-7 times/24 hr.) b) 1 = 8-10 times/24 hr. c) 2 = >11 times/24 hr. II) Gradation of decreased frequency a) 0 = Normal frequency (5-7 times/24 hr.) b) 1 = 3-4 times/24 hr. c) 2 = >2 times/24 hr. OBSERVATION AND RESULTS:- OBSERVATIONS IN OBJECTIVE PARAMETERS - Table 1 :- Showing statistical significance in pulse rate in patients of nanatmaja vikara after using established treatment of modern medicine. Group Pulse rate (mean+SD) Within the gr comparison BT-AT (paired t Test) BT AT Gr I n = 20 95.60 ± 10.61 1 86.90 ± 8.84 8.70 ± 8.78 HS T = 4.43 and P Read the full article

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PREVENTION IN AYURVEDA

From The Vault: Dr Deepak.S.Wali - P.G Scholar , Dr Shivakumar. - Guide : Asst. professor, Dr Mallika K. J. - Guide : Professor P.G. Dept of Swasthavritta, SDMCA&H, Hassan. Abstract Every individual wish to be disease free, very few think to be Healthy. Prevention is better than cure is an old saying. But a question comes how to prevent ? The concept of prevention is mentioned in Ayurveda long back. A person desirable of health must Prevent Diseases before its manifestation. Understanding Aptopdesha properly and following it without fail is a measure tool of prevention. It's the era of modernization and machineries. The term Disease is very much common today. Everyone is cautious to know whether he is suffering from any Disease! But how many do ask a question to self that "Am I healthy?" What should be done to be healthy? How one can prevent the diseases? How my family will be healthy? One should take care of his body by neglecting all other things because nothing exists, if you are not healthy. Prevention is better than cure is an old saying. Ayurveda the science of life has given prime importance to the protection of the health of Healthy individual. This can be achieved by means of preventing the diseases, Maintaining & Promoting health . Swasthachatuska of Charaka is totally dedicated for this purpose. A person desirable of health must always Prevent the Diseases which are not there and also prevent the one which are not yet complete!y manifested by adopting proper measures. The preventi ve measure (Anagata Chikitsa ) is a vague term which includes all the possible measures which fulfill the aim of to be healthy . The measure tool of prevention told in classics is to Understanding Aptopdesha properly and following it without fail.  Which emphasizes on 3 things Samayoga of Jnana, Indriya-Artha and Kala. Among which havi ng proper knowledge plays important role as it leads to Sukha (Health) else i t results in Dukha (Disease). Proper knowledge also lead to proper contact of Indriya & Artha. Kala is considered as God which will ultimately decide Health. Any sort of uneasiness to body and mind can be considered as a Disease. It may be as a result of Intrinsic (Nija ) factors or extrinsic (Agantuja ) factors. Disease also classified· as Adhyatmika, Adhidaivika, Adibhoutika. Three main causes are explained for the disease formation i.e Indriyartha Saanika rsha, Prajn yapa radha and Kala Parinama, which may be too less, in excess or Improper. Soto prevent Diseases and maintain health there is no other tool better than following Aptopadesh. Which says that Swasthavrittapalana is the best way of prevention which is the key for health. It is the primary prevention mentioned in classics. Swasthavritta in short can be defined as a way of Iiving or right conducts for Healthy. Swa : my own , stha : existence , vrutta : routine , Swasthavrutta means the routine to be followed for one's own existence. Which is explained under different headings. It can be considered as a general measure for the prevention and to healthy. As following it improperly results in diseases. Dincharya and Ratricharya : Which Explains about Daily regi men. Right from getting up early in morning till going to bed. Special emphasis given for Personal hygiene which ultimately helps to prevent all diseases & helps in maintaining personal as well as social health. Rutucharya :- Explains in detail about seasonal regimen which helps in preventing the seasonal diseases. By following Rutucharya one can face seasonal changes easily and sustain health. Padamshika Karma :- Is nothing but leaving unwholesome & adapting wholesome diet and regimen stepwise. Especially helpful during the time between two seasons. By which person gets adjusted to the forthcoming season easily and will not face any sort of uneasiness & also helps in Prevention of seasonal diseases. Rutunusara Shodhana :- Also importance is given for Sanchit Dasha Nirharana in respective Rutus helps in maintenance of health & Prevention of seasonal diseases. Sadvritta :- Right conduct of life which briefs about Code of general ethics, Code of diet, natural urges, Relation with women, Self control, Social behavior along with instruction for Studying & worshiping. Following Sadvritta leads to Social health, hygiene alongwith Physical, Mental, Social & Spiritual wellbeing. It also helps in Prevention of communicable diseases and epidemics. Ahara, Nidra & Brahmcharya are considered as 3 pillars of body. Following them properly will help in maintenance of health and prevent the diseases. Adhamiya vega :- With holding the urges leads to Diseases. One, who wishes that he should not suffer from disease, must not suppress Adharniya Vega (Urges not to suppress) Like Mala, Mutra etc. Dharaniya vega :- The urges which are told to suppress like anger etc which may Kayika, Vachika & Mansika Vegas (urge) must be suppressed. Rasayana :- Nitya Rasayana Prayoga is done to boost the immunity, to maintain , protect Health and prevent various diseases. General rule for right conducts for Halthy :- One Should always practice all the tastes (Rasa) and one should always indulge i n things which are opposite to his body constitution (Prakruti) taking in consideration Desha, Kala and Atma. This we can also .consider under primordial prevention where one should take in account the risk factoFB. Apart from general measures for prevention Specifie Measures are also been explained in various contexts. Considering the different factors, adopting suitable measures not only helps in preventing the diseases but also helps in preventing any sort of complications and also helps to improve the quality of life. Social health : Related to women & health of new boarn Sadvruttapalana Graha Ninnana vidhi Contraceptive measuresand Gramyaclharrna isexplained in detail w hich help in Population control and also help inprevention of STD. Various procedures for Bhoomi, Jala , Vayu shuddhi are told Social behavior helps in prevention of communicable disesses Rajaswala Paricharya Garbhini Paricharya Sutika Paricharya Sutikagraha Nabhinalichedana Sanskaras ShishuParicharya Rakshakanna Visankramana All measures told in social health helps in prevention of va- rious communicable &  non-communicable diseases, also maintains social health  . Various measures are also been explained for women, pregnant lady and the new born which serves the purpose all prevention and health. During Disease Manifestation During And After Treatment Kriyakala : chance for prevention / treatment Graha Ninnana vidhi Pathyapathya. Nidana Parivarjana Padanshika karma Langhana Upashaya Pathyapathya Rasayana Shamana : Selection of drug & Treatment is done careflly Shodhana: Precautions are followed. Shastra .:Shastra Payana etc Rugna Paricharya Rugnagara(Vranita) Shatkriyakala are explained, each of them is considered as an opportunity for treatment , rather the first 4 Kriyakala can be considered as an opportunity for preventing the disease manifestation. Itcan be considered as secondary prevention and if 5111 & 6th if considered as tertiary prevention will not be wron.g. Patyapathya, Padanvshika krama, Upavasa , Upashaya , Nidan Parivarjana can also be con sidered under Secondary & Tertiary prevention. Sushruta has beautifully classified all the diseases under 7 types. All the measures mentioned for each will help in preventing different diseases in different condition. This will fulfill the purpose of being healthy and helps us in prevention of Nija - Agantuja Vyadhi. Matruja, Pitruja Rasakruta, Douhrudakruta Vikruta , Avikruta Ritu Proper age of marriage. Atulya Gotra Vivaha. Garbhadhana Yogya Stri - Purusha Laxana. Grbhadhana Yogya Kala & Vidhi. Sharirika & Manasika Sanghata Swasthavritta Palana Sadvritta Palan Garbhiniparicharya :- Samanya & Masanumasika Special care during Douhrudavastha: Douhrudapurthi which is Priya & Hita. Following Pathya-Apathya. Vidyuta, PishachaSamsargaja Aakasmika: Dinachrya & Sadvrutta Rasayana Rakshakarma Jala shuddhi Vay ushuddhi Care taken in Graha, Sutikagara & Ragnagara Rutucharya Sanchita dosha nirhara Aoushadhi sangraha Rakshkarma Kala , Akala Rutunusarashodhana Bhoomi,jala shuddhi Rasayana Sadvritta Palan Conclusion : Concept of prevention is well explained in Ayurveda. Importance is not only given to physical health but also mental, spiritual and social health too. One who desires to be health & happy must prevent the disease before its manifestation and to achieve this goal the "Swastlzavritta-A. way of living" is the best way. Read the full article

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CONCEPT OF SLEEP (NIDRA)

From The Vault: Dr. Srinibash Sahoo , Dr. G.V. Ramana -  Research officers (Ay) Dr. B. Chandrasekhara Rao - Asst. Director (Ay), A.R.unit, NIMHANS, Banglore-29 Dr. Manjushree Sahoo  -  Lecturer, Sri Nrushinganatha Ayurveda College, Paikamala, Orissa Introduction: About one third of our Lives we spend asleep. Through the ages, sleep has occupied a special place in human concern . Ayurveda has also given more importance by considering it one among Trayopasthambha. Other Samhitas and Upanishadas were also detail described regarding Nidra utpatti type and its importance .Yet in modem era only for the last half century it becomes the most universal subject of h uman concern to examine its mysteries and mechanisms. Derivation: Nidra is derived from the root "Dra" with a prefix 'Ni ' . The root "Dra" means undesired. Therefore Nidra is considered as a state in which there will be no desire. This is also a state of nature, which causes encapsulation to the consciousness of the person. Synonyms: Shayanam, Svapah, Svapnam, Sambashah (Amarakosa ) Sambasaha Suptih , S vapnam ( Vaidyak a Sabdhasindhu ) Susupti (Manduka Upanisad ) Nidra: The mythological story tells that the evolution is set in when Sristikarta Brahma is in awakened state and the destruction (Pralaya ) occurs when he goes to sleep. So sleep of Brahma is a destructive state for living beings but for living beings in the world including plants, the sleep is essential like food, water and air. So the scholars of Ayurveda has given importance to t h e sleep by consider i n g i t one among Trayopa sthambha and discussed i ts role i n maintenance of life (Ch. Su. 1135). Sleep is mentioned as one among the thirteen Adharaneeya Vegas. (Ch. Su. 7/4, A.H.Su.4/1). The happiness, nourishment , strength , virili ty, knowledge and life depends on the proper or adequate sleep (Ch.Su. 21/36). Charaka has called the Sleep as Bhuta Dhatri which occurred by nature of Night, that nourishes all the livil)g beings. Sushruta has mentioned it as a Svabhavika Roga ( Ch.Su. 21158-59, Su. Su.417). The timely taken sleep is an indicator of good health because it brings the normalcy in body tissues and relaxes the person (K.S.Khi 417). Like Aahara the adequate sleep is essential for maintenance of the body ( Ch.Su. 21151) . Sushruta called Nidra as Vaishnavimaya on a metaphoric language which is a physiological process and provides nourishment to the living body and maintains the health (Su.Sha.4133). Yogaratnakara has mentioned 4 natural instincts or basic needs for the human being. These are desire to take food, water, sleep and sexual pleasure ( Y.R. Pu.kh.164). Bhavaprakasha has described importance of sleep in fetal life. He has emphasized that the fetus in the womb enjoys better rest and comfort when the mother sleeps during pregnancy (B.P. Vol-1, Chapter Ill. Sloka No.- 317). Definition of Nidra : Nidra cannot be explained in a concise form. From the time immemorial it is a question in every mind that what is sleep, how it occurs and what is its role in health. Though there are various views regarding sleep but all considered it as one of the essential function for the living beings. Different opinions are as follows: (i) Sleep is the mental operation having the cognition of absence for its grasp.. The commentator fyasa made it clear that the sleep is a state of unconsciousness, but the consciousness remains about his own unconsciousn( fyasa on Patanjali Yogasutra.Samadhi Pada - 10). (ii) According to Manduka Upanishad Nidra is a condition in which "Atma" does not have any desire for any thing and it is called "Susupti" and also does not dream anything (Manduka Upanishad) (iii) Chhandogya Upanishad said the state in which the mind is unaware about surroundings and does not see any dreams is called Supta or Nidra ( Chha.Up. 8-6-3) (iv) Sleep is nothing but the temporarily loses the contact with Jnanendriya and Karmendriya which is termed as Nidra (Su.Su. 15140). (v) Nidra is the state of life where Jnanendriaya and Kannendriaya are not doing their functions (S.S.M). (vi) Nidra is the state where mind and intellects are at rest (S.K.). (vii) Nidra is the phenomenon which occurs usually with Samyoga of Ratri ( Vachaspatyam). (viii)Sharngadhara mentions that Nidra is a state where predominance of Kapha and Tamas is seen (Sa. Pu.Kh.614). (ix) Adhamalla defines Nidra as the state in which the Tamoguna combines with Kapha. He further says Mohavastha of Indriya and Mana is called as Nidra. (x) Dalhana states that Nid ra is the state of combination of mind and intellectual in which the person feel s happy ( Dalhana on Su.Su. ] 51 Chapter). Nidra Utpatti: Since the down of the civilization the thinkers of various countries in the world have tried to study the sleep, its nature and causes which is a mysterious thing. But in India our ancient Acharyas had clear idea regarding the physiology of sleep but explained in different manners. So these different explanations regarding the phenomenon of Nidra may be classified under 3 groups. i) Upanishad concept ii) Yogic concept iii) Ayurvedic concept i) Upanishad concept a) It was imagined by these ancient seers that Atma moves from Hridaya through the Nadis and get lodged inside the Puritata which is a membranous sac around the Hridaya, then the sleep follows (Chha. Up. 81613 & 61811). b) Nidra occurs when Atma goes to rest in the.space inside the Hridaya (Br. Ar. Up. 211117-19) ii) Yogic concept a) The yogic philosophers in India have given explanations regarding sleep and also explained the samadhi state which resembles with sleep but is entirely different. They studied the 'Yoganidra' a yogic phenomena pertaining to various states associated with Atma. They have termed these states as- Jag ratavastha -waking consciousness Svapnavastha - Dreaming Susuptavastha - Dreamless sleep Turiyavastha -Conscious dreamless sleep b) Maharshi Patanjali states sleep is a state in which all activities, thoughts and feelings come to an end. In sleep the senses of perception rests in mind causing cessation of their functions as mind is also at rest. iii) Ayurvedic concept: Several concepts have been put forward by our ancient Ayurvedic Acharyas in their texts to explain the phenomenon of Nidra which can be studied under following headings. a) Tamoguna theory 1. Sushruta explains Utpatti of n dra by giving i mportance to Hridaya which is considered as Chetana Sthana. When Chetana Sthana Hridaya is over come or enveloped by Tamas, the person goes to sleep ( Su.Sha. 4134) . 2. Astanga Hridaya states that at night, Tamas being powerful and the higher psychic centers being over powered by it, then the living organism goes to sleep (A.H.Su. 9128). 3. Accordi ng to Ka shyapa the Satvag una is P rakashata (brigh teni n g), Raja g una i s Prava rtaka (promoter) and Tama g una i s Niyamaka (controller). So predominance of Tamoguna than Satva and Raja is the prime cause for sleep (Ka.Sa.Su.28). 4. Harita has stated that the center of sleep is in the upper half part of nose, between the two eye brows in the cranium. When the Tamas reaches the sleep center the knowledge and the activity get diminished and sleep occurs . (H.S.Sha. ] 51 Chp.). b) Kapha Dosa Theory 1) Sushruta mentions that when the Sanjavaha srotas are filled with Kapha and Indriyas are deprived from their respective objects of senses, the person goes to sleep. He also clearly mentions the role of Kapha and Tama for Nidra Utpatti (Su.Sha.416, 33). 2) Bhela explains that Kapha situated in Hridaya is augmented during the process of digestion of food, during day time and when covers the Chakshu vaha and Shrotra vaha Srotas, it leads to sleep (B.S.Chi. 2111-6). 3) Astanga Sangraha states that due to Avarana by Shlesma of the Srotas and Shrama of both types of the Indriyas occur which dissociates from their respective senses then Nidra occurs (A.S.Su.917). 4) Astanga Hridaya describes that whenever the sensation conveying channels of the body are blocked or filled up by the Shleshma and when this Shleshma is over saturated with the Tamasika quality the living being gets sleep. (A.H. Su. 8128). c) Fatigue theory This theory is mainly stated by Aatreya school of Ay ur veda and both Astang a Sang raha and Astanga Hridaya followed this view. 1) Charaka states that when the mind including Jnanendriya and Kannendriya are exhausted they dissociate themselves from theirobjects, and then the individual sleeps ( Ch. Su. 21135). 2) Vagbhata gives importance to the Kapha Dosha and Shrama of the lndriya and Manas in the normal onset of sleep (A.S.Su. 917). 3) Due to exertion, Jnanendriya and Karmendriya cannot cognise their respective objects, then sleep is said to occur according to Bhavaprakash (B.P. Chi. 2111-6) . This opinion suggests that sleep is a phenomenon resulting out of mental tiredness. d) Svabhava Ayurveda always gives emphasis on nature or Svabhava According to this description even though we considered various theories still the natural instinct appears to be more powerful cause than others. Charaka and Sushruta have mentioned by nature, the night serves as a causative factor for sleep (Ch. Su. 21135, Su. Sha. 4133). Types of Sleep: Various Acharyas have given various opinions regarding the types of sleep. But broadly it can classify into 2 types. 1) Svabhavika Nidra - which comes regularly and naturally at night. 2) Asvabhavika Nidra - which comes due to some other causes. Other types of Nidra according to different Acharyas are as follows: 1) According to Acharya Charaka - a) Tamobhava b) Shleshmasamudbhava c) & (d) Manashareera Shrama Sambhava e) Agantuki f) Vyadhyanuvartini g) Ratri svabhava ( Ch.Su. 21158) 2) Acharya Sushruta classifies as follows: A) Tamasi b) Svabhavika I Vaishnavi c) Vaikarika (Su.Sha. 4143) 3) Vagbhata's classification of sleep is similar with Charak's classification but the names differ. a) Tamobhava b) Kaphabhava c) Chittakhedaja d) Dehakhedaja e) Agantuki t) Kalasvabhava • g ) Amayaja Vyadhyanuvartini: In some diseases due to severe weakness the patient falls asleep called Vyadhyanuvartini. Example Sannipataja Jvara. Agantuki: Someti mes the cau se of sleep remam s unexplainable. Chakrapani and Gangadhar commented as Agantuki Nidra is indicative of bad prognosis which leading to definite death (Arista lakshana) ( Chakrapani & Gangadhar on Ch. Su 21158). Benefits of Sleep: 1) Properly and timely taking sleep brings the happiness, nourishment, strength, virility, knowledge and maintains the life (Ch.Su. 21136). 2) As the real knowledge brings about siddhi in a yogi similarly properly intake of sleep brings about happiness and longevity in human beings (Ch.Su. 21138). 3) Proper sleeping at the night time makes the balance of the body constituents (Dhatusamyata) and provides alertness, good vision, good complexion, good strength and good digestive power ( Y.R. & B.P. Pu. Kh.) 4) Persons who intake proper sleep in proper time will not suffer from diseases, their mind will be peaceful, they will gain strength, good complexion, good virility, attractive body and they will not be too lean or too fatty and they Iive good 100 years (Su.Sha. 4/40 and Su.Chi. 14/88). Conclusion: 1. Ayurveda has given more importance to Nidra (Sleep) by considering it one amoung Trayopasthambha. 2. Detailed descriptions regarding Nidra utpatti (Physiology of Sleep) are available in Ayurveda and Upanishadas. 3. Proper intake of Sleep leads to a Peaceful and Healthy life. Read the full article

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DHURDHOORA – FOR SKIN DISEASES

From The Vault: Baby Joseph, Sophy Paul - Department of Pharmacognocy, R & D, Nagarjuna Herbal Concentrates Ltd, Alakkodu, Thodupuzha Distribution & Habitat: Datura metel is a glabrous annual herb existing in different species, distinguished by prefixes denoting the colour of the flowers – white, purple, etc. It is a common weed growing in waste places and roadsides throughout India. Habit and General features: An erect, succulent, spreading annual herb or shrub, with purplish branches, leaves triangular ovate in outline, unequal at base, flowers large solitary, short pedicelled, purplish outside and white inside. Fruits subglobose, capsules covered all over with numerous fleshy prickles, irregularly breaking when mature, seeds numerous, smooth yellowish brown. Part used: Whole plant, Roots, Leaves, Flowers and Fruits Chemical constituents: Daturine, Atropine, Scopolamine, Withanolides, Withametelin B, F & G, Withafastuosin F, Withatatulin B & D, Hyoscine, Hyoscyamine, Daturaolone, Daturadiol, etc. Actions and Uses: The plant is acrid, narcotic, anodyne, antispasmodic, intoxicant and emetic. It is useful in Asthma, Cough, Fever, Inflammations, Hyperacidity, Duodenal ulcer, Renal colic and Calculi. Roots are used for bites of Rabid dogs. Leaf is useful in inflammations and piles. Leaf juice is applied externally for lice and in Skin diseases. Leaves in form of poultice are used in Lumbago, Neuralgia, Mumps and Painful swellings. Seeds are Aphrodisiac and used in Toothache, Earache, Gastric disorders and are good to treat Dandruff and Lice. The plant is used in Headache, Sores, Mumps, Pain, Dropsy, Phsycological illness, Rheumatism, Epilepsy, Convulsions, Pimples, Syphilis, Intoxication (Jain & Tarafder, 1970), Cough, Asthma, Gonorrhoea, Rheumatism (Dekha et.al, 1984), Ulcers, Skin diseases, Fever (Srivastava. et.al, 1986), Kidney-stone & Urinary disorders (Silori & Rana, 2000). Flowers are used in Earache (Rao et.al, 2000). The fruits are useful in Eczema (Masilamani et.al, 1981), Rabid dog bite (Pushpangadan & Atal, 1994), to reduce Swelling on the cheek (Sahoo & Mudgal, 1993) and Dandruff (Rao et.al, 2000). The fruits and seeds are used to cure Cough, Asthma and Bronchitis (Thakur et.al, 1992). Seeds are used in Insanity, Fever with Catarrhal, Cerebral complications and as Antiseptic (Siddiqi et.al, 2001) in Toothache (Pandey & Varma, 2002), Waist pain (Maliya & Singh, 2003), and to heal Cracks in the feet (Rao et.al, 2000). Seeds and roots are used for steam bath in various Dermatological conditions (Rajasekharan et.al, 1993). Leaves are applied to tighten flabby breast and also for Drying up milk in the breast (Bortakur, 1992, 1993, Singh et.al, 2002) and Sprain (Gupta et.al, 1996b, Singh et.al, 2002). The latex is used in Swelling, to expel the Sore worm (Joshi, 1991). Root is used for inducing Sterility (Prem Kishore et.al, 1982, Singh & Prakash, 1994), to prevent Miscarriage/Abortion (Hembrom, 1996). Root, leaves and seeds are used for infestation of Ringworm, Abrasion, Boils and Rashes (Purohit et.al, 1985). Antidandruff: Fresh juice of the leaves with other ingredients boiled with oil gives good control to Dandruff. CNS Effects: A preliminary study on the water extract of seeds reported it as a sedative on normal and stressed rats. Administration of 100 mg/kg water was found to prevent the stress induced decrease in the levels of DNA, RNA and protein in the brain. The stress induced increase in the levels of 5-HIAA and VMA in the urine of rats was decreased by the end of 48 hr after Datura treatment (Khan 1985). Hypoglycemic: The seed powder in the doses of 25, 50 and 75 mg/Kg produced dose-dependent reduction in blood glucose at 8h in normal and alloxan-induced diabetic rats (Krishnamurthy et.al, 2004). Antifertility: The acetone (200 mg/Kg) and methanol (150 mg/Kg) extracts of the fruits were found to be devoid of Antiimplantation activity in rats. (Mathur et.al, 1983, Prakash et.al, 1985). Antiulcer: Withafastuosin E (WE), the Withanolide isolated from the leaves was reported to possess Antiulcer activity and augmented prostaglandins in various models of experimental induced Ulcers in rats. The Withanolide (20mg/kg) reduced the incidence of Ulcer and ulcer index significantly in rats. Wound healing: A 10 percent (w/w) formulation of alcohol extract of leaves was studied for wound healing activity in rats by applying it topically on Thermal wounds. The formulation produced significant beneficial effects on wound contracting ability, wound closure time, tissue regeneration at wound site and histopathological alterations like marked infiltration of inflammatory cells, increased blood vessel formation and enhanced proliferation of cells. There was complete epithelialisation, vascularization and development of hair follicles in rats treated with formulation on day 12. The granulation tissue from the wounds of treated rats showed increase in content of Collagen, Hexosamine and Metrix modifying enzymes (MMP9) and MMP2T. All these results suggested significant prohealing effect of leaves (Shanmuga Priya et.al, 2002a.). Antibacterial: The seeds grown on cattle dung revealed antibacterial activity against Bac subtilis, Xanth campestris, Ps cichorii and Esch coli (Bagchi et .al, 1997). The leaf extracts revealed antibacterial activity against the bacteria Xanth oryzae causing bacterial blight of rice (Meena & Gopalakrishnan, 2004). Antifungal: The extract of the plant was found to exhibit antifungal activity against the Dermatophytic fungi Penicillium chrysogenum, Aspergillus niger isolated from diseased skin samples (Nanir & Kadu, 1987). The ethanolic extract of the seeds was active against Aspergillus niger, A. favus, A.fumigatus and Candida albicans in In-vitro studies (Srinivasan et.al, 2001). The aqueous and the ethanolic extract of the leaves produced 100 percent spore inhibition of Pestalotiopsis theae, Colletotrichum camelliae, Curvularia eragrostidis and Botryodiplodia theobromae, the fungal pathogens of tea (Saha et.al, 2005). Antiviral: The leaf extract inhibited 100 percent tobacco mosaic virus on Chenopodium amaranticolor. The expressed juice from the leaf, stem and root markedly decreased the number of local lesions and systemic infection by the virus causing Necrotic mosaic disease of Solanum melongena. Much precautions are necessary in its employment, as in overdoses it acts as a violent narcotic poison. Ayurvedic Properties: Rasa Tiktha, Katu Guna Laghu, Ruksha Virya Ushna Vipaka Katu Cultivation and Collection: Datura can be grown on variety of soils but prefers rich clay-loam soil and sunny situations. The land is ploughed two or three times followed by planting. Farmyard manure is applied in the beginning. It is a summer crop and seeds are sown in March. Seeds can be directly grown by seed or by transplanting of seedlings. Seeds germination can be enhanced by soaking the seed overnight in water and washing the seed in fresh water before sowing. The seeds start germinating within a fortnight and in a month’s time the germination is complete. Weeding and thining is done when plants are 10-12 cm high. After five months harvesting can be started with appearance of flowers. PHARMACOGNOSY Materials & Methods: Plant materials were collected from different parts of Kerala and Nagarjuna Herbal Garden. For Macroscopical characters Stereomicroscope is used and for Microscopical studies, the Compound microscope. For physical constants Rotary shaker, Muffle furnace, UV – cabinet and Moisture balance were used. RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS Macroscopic features: Roots are cylindrical, brown coloured, rough due to fissures and root scars, stem dichotomously branched, cylindrical, blackish dark to purple colour, leaf petiolate, ovate, acute, flowers stalked, calyx tubular, corolla purple, funnel shaped, fruit capsule, ovate to obovate with persistent calyx, covered with short, stout, spines, seeds light brown, reniform and bitter in taste. Microscopic features: Root shows 4-7 layers of thin walled rectangular cork cells, secondary cortex composed of 3 to 4 layers thin walled parenchymatous tangentially elongated cells. Stem shows single layered epidermis covered by thick cuticle followed by 2 or 3 layered rectangular cork cells. Secondary cortex consisting of 4-7 layered collenchymatous cells, endodermis distinct containing starch grains. Leaf petiole shows plano convex outline, cortex composed of collenchyma cells, vascular bundles bicollateral and calcium oxalate crystals present in the cortex. Seeds show an outline with bulges at 3 places, single layered epidermis, seedcoat consists of thick walled parenchymatous cells filled with aleurone grains and oil globules, embryo more or less curved. PHYSICAL CONSTANT VALUES No Parameters Values 1 Foreign matter Max 2 % 2 Total Ash Max 16 % 3 Acid Insoluble Ash Max 4% 4 Alcohol Soluble Extractive Min 4% 5 Water Soluble Extractive Min 15% Thin Layer Chromatography Powder - 5 g Extract - Ethyl alcohol Solvent system - Chloroform: Methanol – 80:20 Rf values Colour in UV rays 0.65 Blue 0.67 Pink 0.98 Pink Read the full article

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Five Yummy Health Foods That Reduce Stress and Anxiety

In today’s world, it is common to get stressed because of the hectic lifestyle. The science of health – Ayurveda has a solution for every problem. It also has simple remedies to suppress anxiety and stress. Some of the daily activities to help you deplete them are exercise, socializing, surrounding yourself with positive people etc. But apart from all this, you should also include foods which support your nervous system and encourages positivity. Ayurveda says that stress and anxiety occur when Vata dosha goes out of balance. Hence, it is best advised to add Vata pacifying foods to your diet. Brown Rice Brown rice is considered more nutritious when compared to white rice. It pacifies Vata and Kapha doshas and aggravates Pitta. It is also rich in anti-oxidants; the germinated brown rice is a great source of essential amino acids and serotonin. All of this contributes to boosting up one's mood to reduce stress and anguish. The other foods which serve the same purpose are sweet potatoes, carrots, wheat, oats, toor dhal, red lentils, urad dhal etc. Orange Orange is a great source of Vitamin C and hence, easily digestible. It is a natural detoxifier, cholagogue and nutritive. Cortisol is a hormone which is mainly responsible for negative emotions. Vitamin C reduces the secretion of this stress hormone and aids in reducing blood pressure. The other foods which belong to the same category include strawberries, tomatoes, broccoli, papayas and other citrus fruits. Green Tea Green Tea is considered to be a magical drink to cleanse your overall body. It is basically digestive, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and spleen tonic. Intake of up to 5 cups of green tea every day can reduce stress to a great extent. Studies have revealed that it also cures a headache and migraine to overcome anxiety. Almonds Almonds are a great source of vitamin E, magnesium and phosphorus. They are also rich in anti-oxidants and hence effective in managing stress. Munch on about 15 to 20 soaked almonds every day to see effective results. The other nuts like cashews, sunflower seeds, walnuts, peanuts and pine nuts are also nutritious and Vata pacifying nuts. Dark Chocolate Dark chocolate is an aphrodisiac and a nervine. It instantly elevates mood, relaxes muscles and makes the blood thinner. The next time you feel low, binge on a dark chocolate bar to suppress stress hormones like epinephrine and cortisol.   Read the full article

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ANTISENSE TECHNOLOGY – BRINGING HOPE TO LIFE

From The Vault: Deepti G. - MSc Biotechnology Introduction Antisense technologies are a suite of techniques that together form a very powerful weapon of studying gene function (functional genomics) and for discovering new and more specific treatments of diseases in humans, animals and plants (Antisense therapeutics). This type of technology was first developed by Dr. Hal Weintraub and his colleagues at the Basic Science Division in the early 1980s. They were the first to show that aRNA could inhibit gene expression in mouse cells (Berg 2002). Antisense technology was first effectively used in plants to alter the levels of various degradative enzymes or plant pigments. What is Antisense Technology? Antisense technology is a tool that is used for the inhibition of gene expression. Protein molecules are the expressions of gene. However, to get to a protein the cell must undergo two complex processes, transcription and translation. Transcription is the process in which an RNA copy is made of the DNA. Finally, the RNA is transported to the cytoplasm; the mRNA molecule binds with ribosomes and starts the production of protein.

Occasionally, a bad mRNA molecule is synthesized so that the resulting protein cannot function properly. Abnormalities of proteins cause many diseases that afflict humans. If the production of these proteins is disrupted, many diseases can be treated or cured. This idea is the basis for antisense technology. Antisense Mechanisms The principle behind it is that an antisense nucleic acid sequence base pairs with its complementary sense RNA strand and prevents it from being translated into a protein. The complementary nucleic acid sequence can be either a synthetic oligonucleotide, often oligodeoxyribonucleotides (ODN) of less than 30 nucleotides, or longer antisense RNA (aRNA) sequences.

Initially, cellular nucleases dramatically reduce the effectiveness of antisense oligonucleotides by rapidly degrading these molecules after administration. These obstacles can be overcome in applications utilizing synthetic oligonucleotides by altering the nature of the phosphodiester bond by replacing oxygen with sulphur. Such modified oligonucleotides are termed as Phosphorothionates. Theories on how inhibition works The overall goal in introducing an antisense agent into cells either in vitro or in vivo is to suppress or completely block the production of the gene product. The exact mechanism by which the translation is blocked is unknown. Several theories include: That the dsRNA prevents ribosomes from binding to the sense RNA and translating. The ds RNA cannot be transported from within the nucleus to the cystol, which is where translation occurs, or That dsRNA is susceptible to endoribonucleases that would otherwise not affect single stranded RNA, but degrade the dsRNA How to clone RNA In order for aRNA to block translation, it has to be inserted into the proper cells so it can bind to its complementary sense strand. There are several ways to incorporate aRNA into a cell. Endocytosis – One of the simplest methods to get nucleotides in the cell, it relies on the natural process of receptor mediated endocytosis. The drawbacks to this method are the long amount of time for any accumulation to occur, the unreliable results, and the inefficiency. Micro injection – As the name implies, the antisense molecule would be injected into the cell. The yield of this method is very high, but because of the precision needed to inject a very small cell with similar molecules only about 100 cells can be injected per day. Liposome encapsulation – This is the most effective method, but also very expensive one. Liposome encapsulation can be achieved by using products such as LipofectACE(TM) to create a cationic phospholipid bilayer that will surround the nucleotide sequence. The resulting liposome can merge with the cell membrane allowing the antisense to enter the cell. Virus infection – Adenoviruses can also be used to infects cells and delivers aRNA sequences. This method has higher transduction efficiency than liposomes. Electroporation – The conventional method of adding a nucleotide sequence to a cell can also be used. The antisense molecule should traverse the cell membrane after a shock applied to the cells. A northern blot can also be used to detect whether the aRNA is produced within the cells, and a Western blot can be used to measure amount of the mRNA gene that is expresses in wild type and mutant cells with. If the aRNA is properly expresses in the cells, then less of the mRNA gene product should be produced. Biotechnology and antisense technology causation The impact of biotechnology on antisense technology is expected to increase dramatically as the links between genetics, protein production and disease are better understood. Currently, antisense technology is used to design therapeutic compounds which target specific mRNA sequences to obstruct the production of certain disease causing proteins. Traditional drug therapies focus on a drugs interaction with the disease causing proteins. However, antisense drug therapies inhibit the production of the disease causing proteins altogether. Applications of Antisense Applications of Antisense technology are very diverse. It was first successfully used in plants. One example that is currently available is the Flavr Savr tomato. They were transgenic tomatoes constructed to have artificial DNA that coded for aRNA that was complementary to the RNA that coded for the protein that caused spoiling. The aRNA suppressed the expression of this spoilage gene by 10%, which was enough to save the tomatoes from rotting while being shipped to grocery stores. Antisense technology is now being used in mammalian cells. Promising fields of study for antisense technology in humans include Cancer gene therapy and AIDS. Progress in these developments over the last decade has led to the approval of the first such drug – Vitravene for AIDS related CMV retinitis. In cancer treatment, antisense is constructed in a way that will bond with the mRNA from the PKC alpha gene. This gene is targeted because PKC alpha kinase is more sensitive in cancer cells. The treatment has resulted in a 50% decrease in the size of the tumour from ovarian cancer in one patient and stabilization of the tumours growth in other patients. Other antisense drugs are in development for rheumatoid arthritis, other inflammatory conditions, and Hepatitis C. Still other antisense drugs are entering clinical trials for treatment of metabolic conditions such as Diabetes and Hyperlipidaemia. These latter applications provide for target effects to be more directly measured in the clinic. Improved antisense chemistry, which will enhance the feasibility of subcutaneous and oral administration of antisense drugs and offer the potential of less frequent dosing, is expected to further expand the opportunities for antisense drug development. Conclusion Antisense RNA and DNA techniques have been developed as and relatively recent approach to the specific modulation of gene expression invitro and invivo. Antisense technology exploits oligonucleotide analogs to bind target RNAs via Watson-Crick hybridization. Once bound, the antisense agent either disables or induces the degradation of the target RNA. During the past decade, much has been learned about the basic mechanisms of antisense, the medical chemistry, and the pharmacologic, pharmacokinetic and toxicological properties of antisense molecules. Antisense technology has proven valuable in gene functionalisation and target validation. Since antisense technology focuses on preventing gene expression, it has been most widely applied to cancer gene therapy. Improved antisense chemistry, which will enhance the feasibility of subcutaneous and oral administration of antisense drugs and offer the potential of less frequent dosing, is expected to further expand the opportunities of drug development. Thus antisense technology brings hope to life……. Read the full article

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5 Ayurvedic Home Spa Remedies to Cure Dry Skin

The most challenging task in the winter season is to take of dry and chapped skin. Ayurveda suggests you balance the Vata dosha to in order to maintain a healthy skin during cold season. Vata is made of elements Air and Ether or space. These elements depict the qualities like dry, light, mobile and heavy. Make use of Ayurvedic home remedies to feed your skin and hair with healthy food that can make it gleam with pride. Check out some of the interesting home spa remedies to beautify you both from inside and outside. Rejuvenating massage Make it a habit to massage your whole body with a blend of healthy oils like sesame oil or any other massage oil. Let it stay for 10 to 20 minutes on your body and then take a warm shower. This not only keeps you warm but also reduces stress to a great extent. Ayurveda strongly suggests you avoid the use of hot water or soap with chemicals. This can rip out all the essentials from the body to leave it lifeless and dull. Take care of dry and itchy scalp It is common to experience dandruff, dryness and itching scalp during the winter season. This can be a result of insufficient blood flow to the scalp. To aid this process, it is good to massage your scalp with nourishing oils like Brahmi and bhringaraj. Make sure to cover and protect your hair while stepping out after the oil massage. Pamper your feet Cold season can increase dryness to result in cracked heels. Follow a daily regimen, to soak your feet in warm water infused with essential oils like rosemary oil and lavender oil, scrub the feet with a pumice stone to remove the dead cells. Doing it for 10 minutes before going to bed can repair your damaged feet. Follow a healthy skin care Facial skin needs extra care and love during winter seasons. Use a chemical-free cleanser or face wash. Pat dry and apply essential facial oil all over the face and neck. Make sure to cover your face with a scarf before stepping out in the cold and windy weather. Keep your body warm from inside Treating yourself to warm soups, stews, healthy grains, hearty meals can be the best way to warm your body during the winter season. You can also include foods like oil, ghee or any dairy products but make sure not to go overboard.   Read the full article

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ANTISENSE TECHNOLOGY – BRINGING HOPE TO LIFE

From The Vault: Deepti G. - MSc Biotechnology Introduction Antisense technologies are a suite of techniques that together form a very powerful weapon of studying gene function (functional genomics) and for discovering new and more specific treatments of diseases in humans, animals and plants (Antisense therapeutics). This type of technology was first developed by Dr. Hal Weintraub and his colleagues at the Basic Science Division in the early 1980s. They were the first to show that aRNA could inhibit gene expression in mouse cells (Berg 2002). Antisense technology was first effectively used in plants to alter the levels of various degradative enzymes or plant pigments. What is Antisense Technology? Antisense technology is a tool that is used for the inhibition of gene expression. Protein molecules are the expressions of gene. However, to get to a protein the cell must undergo two complex processes, transcription and translation. Transcription is the process in which an RNA copy is made of the DNA. Finally, the RNA is transported to the cytoplasm; the mRNA molecule binds with ribosomes and starts the production of protein.

Occasionally, a bad mRNA molecule is synthesized so that the resulting protein cannot function properly. Abnormalities of proteins cause many diseases that afflict humans. If the production of these proteins is disrupted, many diseases can be treated or cured. This idea is the basis for antisense technology. Antisense Mechanisms The principle behind it is that an antisense nucleic acid sequence base pairs with its complementary sense RNA strand and prevents it from being translated into a protein. The complementary nucleic acid sequence can be either a synthetic oligonucleotide, often oligodeoxyribonucleotides (ODN) of less than 30 nucleotides, or longer antisense RNA (aRNA) sequences.

Initially, cellular nucleases dramatically reduce the effectiveness of antisense oligonucleotides by rapidly degrading these molecules after administration. These obstacles can be overcome in applications utilizing synthetic oligonucleotides by altering the nature of the phosphodiester bond by replacing oxygen with sulphur. Such modified oligonucleotides are termed as Phosphorothionates. Theories on how inhibition works The overall goal in introducing an antisense agent into cells either in vitro or in vivo is to suppress or completely block the production of the gene product. The exact mechanism by which the translation is blocked is unknown. Several theories include: That the dsRNA prevents ribosomes from binding to the sense RNA and translating. The ds RNA cannot be transported from within the nucleus to the cystol, which is where translation occurs, or That dsRNA is susceptible to endoribonucleases that would otherwise not affect single stranded RNA, but degrade the dsRNA How to clone RNA In order for aRNA to block translation, it has to be inserted into the proper cells so it can bind to its complementary sense strand. There are several ways to incorporate aRNA into a cell. Endocytosis – One of the simplest methods to get nucleotides in the cell, it relies on the natural process of receptor mediated endocytosis. The drawbacks to this method are the long amount of time for any accumulation to occur, the unreliable results, and the inefficiency. Micro injection – As the name implies, the antisense molecule would be injected into the cell. The yield of this method is very high, but because of the precision needed to inject a very small cell with similar molecules only about 100 cells can be injected per day. Liposome encapsulation – This is the most effective method, but also very expensive one. Liposome encapsulation can be achieved by using products such as LipofectACE(TM) to create a cationic phospholipid bilayer that will surround the nucleotide sequence. The resulting liposome can merge with the cell membrane allowing the antisense to enter the cell. Virus infection – Adenoviruses can also be used to infects cells and delivers aRNA sequences. This method has higher transduction efficiency than liposomes. Electroporation – The conventional method of adding a nucleotide sequence to a cell can also be used. The antisense molecule should traverse the cell membrane after a shock applied to the cells. A northern blot can also be used to detect whether the aRNA is produced within the cells, and a Western blot can be used to measure amount of the mRNA gene that is expresses in wild type and mutant cells with. If the aRNA is properly expresses in the cells, then less of the mRNA gene product should be produced. Biotechnology and antisense technology causation The impact of biotechnology on antisense technology is expected to increase dramatically as the links between genetics, protein production and disease are better understood. Currently, antisense technology is used to design therapeutic compounds which target specific mRNA sequences to obstruct the production of certain disease causing proteins. Traditional drug therapies focus on a drugs interaction with the disease causing proteins. However, antisense drug therapies inhibit the production of the disease causing proteins altogether. Applications of Antisense Applications of Antisense technology are very diverse. It was first successfully used in plants. One example that is currently available is the Flavr Savr tomato. They were transgenic tomatoes constructed to have artificial DNA that coded for aRNA that was complementary to the RNA that coded for the protein that caused spoiling. The aRNA suppressed the expression of this spoilage gene by 10%, which was enough to save the tomatoes from rotting while being shipped to grocery stores. Antisense technology is now being used in mammalian cells. Promising fields of study for antisense technology in humans include Cancer gene therapy and AIDS. Progress in these developments over the last decade has led to the approval of the first such drug – Vitravene for AIDS related CMV retinitis. In cancer treatment, antisense is constructed in a way that will bond with the mRNA from the PKC alpha gene. This gene is targeted because PKC alpha kinase is more sensitive in cancer cells. The treatment has resulted in a 50% decrease in the size of the tumour from ovarian cancer in one patient and stabilization of the tumours growth in other patients. Other antisense drugs are in development for rheumatoid arthritis, other inflammatory conditions, and Hepatitis C. Still other antisense drugs are entering clinical trials for treatment of metabolic conditions such as Diabetes and Hyperlipidaemia. These latter applications provide for target effects to be more directly measured in the clinic. Improved antisense chemistry, which will enhance the feasibility of subcutaneous and oral administration of antisense drugs and offer the potential of less frequent dosing, is expected to further expand the opportunities for antisense drug development. Conclusion Antisense RNA and DNA techniques have been developed as and relatively recent approach to the specific modulation of gene expression invitro and invivo. Antisense technology exploits oligonucleotide analogs to bind target RNAs via Watson-Crick hybridization. Once bound, the antisense agent either disables or induces the degradation of the target RNA. During the past decade, much has been learned about the basic mechanisms of antisense, the medical chemistry, and the pharmacologic, pharmacokinetic and toxicological properties of antisense molecules. Antisense technology has proven valuable in gene functionalisation and target validation. Since antisense technology focuses on preventing gene expression, it has been most widely applied to cancer gene therapy. Improved antisense chemistry, which will enhance the feasibility of subcutaneous and oral administration of antisense drugs and offer the potential of less frequent dosing, is expected to further expand the opportunities of drug development. Thus antisense technology brings hope to life……. Read the full article

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OOTHU CHIKITSA (BLOWING THERAPY)

From The Vault: Dr. Krishna Singh - Lecturer, Dept. of Agadatantra, Sri Sri College of Ayurvedic Science and Research, Bangalore A survey reports “It is difficult to provide comprehensive primary health care to entire population in developing countries like India where 70% of the population live in rural areas. They are not having the luxury of the Speciality hospitals as in the cities. One of the most certain and feasible ways to provide health care to the entire population is by strengthening and taking the support and help of traditional medicine and its practitioners in cultures worldwide.” Agadatantra, a branch of Ayurveda, deals with the study of different kinds of poisons and the management of poisoning from various sources. It is not a deniable fact that incidence of snake bite has not declined in rural areas and at the same time statistics proves that suburban areas are also vulnerable to snake bite. It means treatment of snake bite cases still remains a challenge to the medical fraternity even after invention of sophisticated and advanced medicines and techniques. The contribution of professional Vishavaidyas from Kerala for the management of snake bite is highly appreciated. The Ayurvedic treatment module for this medical emergency is unique and requires medical skills and experience to practice. Apart, from using treatment mentioned in the Samhitas, they follow many unique treatments which are known to local Vishavaidyas, since ages. All these treatments are mentioned in Malayalam Visha text book and are passed from generation to generation in the family of Vishavaidyas. Many Vishavaidya families in Kerala are practicing Oothu chikitsa, for e.g. Vimala Antarajanam of Ollur mana, Thrissur. There are many medicines and treatments which are effectively used as life-saving tools in the remote areas. Oothu is one among them which is used in snake bite cases when the patient is falling unconscious. It is an emergency treatment which is very handy and can be practiced with minimal requirement. The treatment modality called oothu is one of the most important therapeutic procedures performed in the initial stage of snake bite treatment, particularly in the stages of Vata, Kapha or Vatakapha predominance and when the effect of visha is limited to the first three dhatus. The textual reference for this method of treatment is Jyotsnika. Indications: A Vishavaidya mainly employs this treatment modality when any or all of the following symptoms appears in a snakebite victim: Delay in responses to verbal and physical stimuli Drowsiness Drooping of the eyes Numbness over the tongue, mouth and scalp Pain all over the body Paralysis of jaw, tongue, larynx and neck Headache Dizziness, vertigo Excess salivation, formation of mucous and fluids in the chest, eyes, etc. Materials required: The drugs required are Sunthi (dried rhizome of Zingiber officinale), Dusparsha (root of Tragia involucrata), Maricha (dried fruits of Piper nigrum), Iswaramuli (root of Aristolochia indica). In common practice the root of dusparsha is generally avoided, partly due to the difficulty in procuring the drug at short notice and partly due to allergic reaction it produces in certain individuals. Method: Three persons who have not consumed alcohol or any such tiksna dravyas (because being similar in nature to that of visha can aggravate it further) for the last 24 hours are needed for the treatment. If the persons have chewed tobacco or betel leaves, they should thoroughly wash their mouth before starting the treatment. The patient should be seated in a comfortable position, either in a chair or a high pedestal, which is convenient for the treatment. One attendant should stand behind and the other two attendants on either sides of the patient. They should then chew a small quantity of the 4 drugs explained above, slightly pounded together. The person standing behind the patient should blow air through his mouth onto the murddha of the patient and the two attendants standing on either side should blow air through their mouth to the ear on the respective side. This should be done synchronously for at least 150 times. It can be increased as per the patient’s condition. The attendants can briefly stop the treatment in between to spit out excess saliva. Care should be taken not to spit out the medicines kept in the mouth. Improvements can be noticed in the responses of the patient after 75-100 blowing. After 150 blowing there is usually a marked improvement in the verbal and physical responses, drowsiness and drooping of the eyes. The patients report a vivid feeling of the effects of visha descending down their body before disappearing. All these medicines and procedures fulfil the criteria of the plans of the AYUSH, which aims to popularize local health tradition which is immediate / handy and also cost-effective treatment. But, the effort should be put to prove the efficacy and mode of action of these procedures and anti-dotes on the scientific basis to be accepted largely by the Ayurvedic medical community. Such efforts will help the survival of the very precious and rarest procedures and anti-dotes by bringing them to the mainstream, which would be beneficial for the mankind. Read the full article

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POLYETHYLENE TEREPHTHALATE AND AYURVEDA

From The Vault: Dr. V. Madhavachandran - Manager R&D, Nagarjuna Herbal Concentrates Ltd. Polyethylene terephthalate is a thermoplastic polymer resin of the polyester family. It is commonly abbreviated as PET. We find various uses for PET in our daily life. Bottles, packing materials, etc. are made of PET. Products of synthetic as well as natural origin are packaged in PET containers. Many medicines, food supplements, health supplements, etc. are available in PET. We can find many Ayurvedic medicines packaged in PET containers in the market. Many of such packs are found to be distorted and shapeless with the bottle walls softened. Hence it has become imperative to study more about PET, its interactions with its contents, possible health hazards it may cause to the living beings and the damage it can cause to the environment. PET consists of polymerized units of the monomer - ethylene terephthalate, repeating C10H8O4 units. PET can be semi rigid to rigid, depending on its thickness, and is very light weight. It makes a fair gas barrier and a moderate moisture barrier. It also can up to certain extent; act as a barrier to alcohol and other solvents. PET may exist as an amorphous (transparent) or as a semi-crystalline material. The semi crystalline material might appear transparent (spherulites Read the full article

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AYURVEDIC CONCEPT OF DISEASE COMMUNICABILITY

From The Vault: Dr Nikhila B. H., MD (Ay) - Lecturer, Department of Swasthavrutta, Sri Sri College of Ayurvedic Science and Research Introduction On discussions in the topic of disease communicability, what crop up our minds is the quote of Acharya Sushruta, in Kustha Nidana stating the modes of transmission of communicable diseases, like – Prasanga (sexual contact), Gatra sparsha (touch, contact), Nishwasa (airborne), Saha bhojana (food borne), Saha- shayya, aasana, vastra, malya, anulepana (Fomites). In a broader view, these are just glimpses and much more advanced information is available, as per the necessity of understanding the topic. Acharya Charaka in Vimanasthana discusses the root cause for communicable diseases under a broad caption of ‘Adharma’, i.e., not following Sadvrutta which is a part of ‘Dharma Shastra’, (a list of do’s and don’ts), which are conductive towards maintenance of a healthy lifestyle. Further he states that the environmental changes leading to epidemics are also the result of Adharma and Purvakruta asat karma. Although these two are main causes, they need to be supported by other reasons like, Bhoota sanga, Apachara, etc., and take up the help of four factors viz., Jala, Vayu, Bhumi, and Kala to impart the asatmyata and vikrutata in shareera. Acharya Vagbhata gives emphasis on Prajnaparadha (nishiddha aacharana), which is again Sadhya kruta and Purva kruta, along with the other reasons. A person gets devoid of dharma due to the impact of kama, krodha, moha, etc., and gets deviated from his vrutta and aachara leading to ashaucha. This article offers a bird’s eye view of different references related with disease communicability in Ayurveda and their interpretation according to present day knowledge. Concept of infective agents: The infective agents are variously described in Ayurvedic texts as: Bhoota: Yama-anucharah, Deva grahadayah Rakshasi: Ravana-anucharah - Pashupati kubera-kumara anucharani, Maheshwara-Dhanada-Kartikeya anucharani, tad aadesha karani ityartha Pishacha: Pishitashana, Deva yonayh Pretah: Pranino vigatim praptah Krutya: Kupita mantrino abhichara karma janita rakshasi Nishachara: Prithivyam antarikshe chaye charanti Krimi, etc. These agents are considered as ‘Durjneya’ i.e., difficult to perceive and move around and affect to cause vinasha. Bhoota swabhava: The Bhootas and Grahas are divided into two groups – Suras and Asuras with varied forms and shapes. Bhootas have the wandering habit at night in search of their food, which is usually Mamsa, Asruk, Vasa, etc. The timings and the places of Bhootavesha (getting infected or infested) are explained as unhygienic places and things, regurgitation, blood, vomit, etc. Even though Bhootas get to their favourite places and timings, they will not enter inside the shareera till the ‘Chidra’ (route of entry into body) is created. The Bhootas or Grahas prefer specific routes of entry, explained as: Sparsha – Gandharva Aavesha – Bhujanga Gandha – Yaksha Rakta vahana – Rakshasa, Pishacha Darshana – Pitru Shapa – Rhushi, Guru, Vruddha, Siddha, etc. Incubation Period: The concept of interval between the time of infection and the time of appearance of the first clinical features, which is specific for each infectious disease was profoundly understood and used for diagnoses and treatment by the Acharyas. In Aagantuja Jwara, Acharya Charaka states three days to a week for the proper establishment of disease and after this duration only, the disease becomes associated with doshas. Concept of Aagantuja Vikara: This is based on extrinsic factors invading the body like Abhighata, Abhishanga, Abhichara and Abhishapa. Abhighata indicates entry of agents through injury or ‘Direct mode of transmission’. Abhishanga relates to the Bhootas referred to as ‘Asatmya gandhaadayo’, which is nothing but the air, water, earth, etc. contaminated by dust and infective agents. Further it is stated that scratching with nails, biting, etc., also cause aagantuja diseases, which can be considered under inoculation into skin and mucosa. Concept of Grahas: For Balagrahas, Acharya Vagbhata and Kashyapa explains that Lord Mahadeva, worried about the protection of Lord Kartikeya, also known as Skandha created five Purusha grahas, and seven Stree grahas. These grahas later started affecting the children on Earth. Acharya Vagbhata in Unmada nidana mentions that the grahas themselves does not invade any human being, but instead they send their ‘Paricharakas’, who are innumerable, to affect the humans. These grahas invade the humans to fulfil three reasons, namely: Hinsa, Rati, and Archana. The grahas which affect the child with the intention of Hinsa are said to be incurable and at the end will kill the child. The grahas with intention of Rati get cured with difficulty and should be treated with, by fulfilling their desires. The grahas invading with the desire for Archana, are sukha sadhya and should be treated with Homa, Mantra, etc. Agni is a must in all treatments of Grahas and Bhootas, and keeping agni burning with Rakshoghna taila, all around the child signifies the power of disinfection the Agni possess, which is true even today in the form of incineration, boiling, fumigation, etc. Concept of Revati: Revati was created by Gods to destroy the Asuras and Rakshasas. The Asuras took shelter in the wombs of humans, animals, birds, and plants. When Revati came to know of this, she created Jataharini and started killing all the forms of Asuras including foetus, child and mother. Acharya Kashyapa mentions, when a woman, during her pregnancy, comes in to contact with another woman having unhygienic practices and is inauspicious, the Jataharini attacks the pregnant woman through the roots of hair, nails, old clothes, leftover food and drinks, medicines, perfumes, flowers, old shoes, etc., Revati enters through the pores created by the Adharma (unrighteous acts), underlines subtle scientific information on vector-borne modes of transmission of diseases. The pregnant women were not desired to eat even with their mother. The husband who has come from outside should wash himself before touching his wife. The concept of sexually transmitted diseases spreading through multiple partners is also mentioned. It is also mentioned that if disease is not getting subsided by any treatment and the woman is getting repeated problems, then she should vacate the house itself, and not to take any article from it. The Trans placental transmission of disease through the affected mother to the foetus is also explained. The result of which is classified in to three categories, Curable, Difficult to cure (death of foetus or one of the foetus in twins) and Incurable (death of foetus or both foetus and mother). The astonishing fact is reference even of cross breeding among the Jataharinis of different ‘Varnas’ shows that mutations among different infective agents were well known. The mentioning of Jataharini occurring in birds, animals and plants, which mutate and infect the humans, shows the knowledge of Vector-borne diseases, of which the resent examples are, Bird flu and Swine flu. Concept of Krimi: We find a very detailed explanation on Krimi which meets out the explanation on all parasites known till date and even their lifecycle. These are said to be very minute and difficult to perceive, and of different forms. Broadly they have been divided into four categories, as follows:. Malaja Krimi – Live in mud and enter body through contaminated food and fluid, small like ‘Anu’, shaped like Tila and have many feet. Shonitaja Krimi – Similar to Kushta in the modes of spreading, take shelter in blood vessels of the body, anu swarupa, rounded, devoid of legs, invisible due to their minuteness. Shleshmaja Krimi – Source from food kept for many days and is decomposing, is Viruddha, Asatmya, and mixed with mala due to unhygienic habits, live in Amashaya but after development they spread up and down the G.I. tract. Pureeshaja Krimi – Similar to Shleshmaja in many ways, but after development they move only downwards. In Krimiroga Pratishedha Adhyaya, Acharya Sushruta explains the prevention of infestation by parasites and also briefs about the lifecycle. He states that Krimi are of many varieties and have various sources and reservoirs. In the body, he draws attention on two main sites for breeding, viz. - Amapakwashaya and Dhamanis (Rakta). In Amapakwashaya, the parasites breed in Kapha and Vid, and hence the mode of transmission is obviously Mala. So the next susceptible host, who will consume the food contaminated with this mala, will get the infection thus completing the lifecycle. That is the reason why Acharya Sushruta includes ‘Malina ashana’ as one of the reasons for Krimiroga. Here ‘Malina’ stands for ‘Sa-Mala’. Conclusion The Adhidaivika diseases coming under the category of Daivabala pravrutta include all the diseases caused by Bhootas (infective agents). The explanation available in classics about their behaviour, incubation period, modes of transmission, reproduction, etc. is very elaborate, and is meeting the present day requirements. The Aagantuja vikaras claim all the diseases caused by extrinsic factors including the communicable diseases. While explaining Grahas, various modes of transmissions have been quoted which include both direct and indirect modes. A detailed explanation can be found on features of Krimi and their life-cycle there. Read the full article

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How To Breastfeed The Ayurvedic Way

There’s no doubt about it; the best thing you can do for your baby is to breastfeed him or her. Breastfeeding not only gives your baby the nourishment he needs but also helps you strengthen the bond between him and you. According to Ayurveda, there are a few things you should keep in mind while breastfeeding. Eat Right What you eat determines the nourishment your child will receive. Hence, pay attention to your diet. Eat warm, nutritious food that is easy to digest. Your diet should include plenty of vegetables such as carrots, pumpkins, okra, squash etc. Herbs and spices such as ginger, garlic, pepper, turmeric, dill, cumin, fennel and cilantro are also great as they aid in digestion. Also, ensure that you eat enough proteins. This could be in the form of chicken soup, sprouted lentils or nuts. Avoid cold foods and raw salads. This will make the milk you produce hard to digest. Also, avoid eating left overs, cheese, fried and processed foods, ice cream, chocolate and alcohol. Remember, everything you eat, your baby eats too. Massage Your Breasts Massaging your breast helps improve circulation, unclogs milk ducts and helps you prepare yourself for breastfeeding. This should be done before you have a shower or before you go to bed. You could use coconut, sunflower, almond, olive or sesame oil. An Ayurvedic practitioner may also be able to advise you on herbal infused oils. When massaging your breasts, move your hands in a gentle, circular motion with moderate pressure. If you are massaging your breasts yourself, use the right hand for the left breast and vice versa. Destress It is important to be happy and stress free when breastfeeding your baby. If you are not calm while feeding your baby, you will not be able to get your baby to feed properly. Hence, make it a practice to start your day with meditation. Sit somewhere comfortably and pay attention to your breathing. Take deep breaths and let go of your tensions as you inhale and exhale. Try to do this for at least 20 minutes. Meditating before you go to sleep will also help you have a more restful sleep. Also, take time out to connect with nature. Walk barefoot on grass or simply lie back and watch the clouds pass overhead. Enjoy the silence and the melodious sounds of nature. With these tips, breastfeeding will become easier and a more enjoyable experience. Read the full article

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Simple Morning Routine and Daily Rituals to Deal with Stress

There are a number of things that must be done every morning. Most of these activities, like getting out of bed, brushing your teeth etc. are performed mindlessly. However, you could develop a small ritual around each such activity. If you’ve been finding yourself under a lot of stress, these small rituals could help you manage your stress better. Wake Up at the Same Time Everyday To have a good day, you must have a good night’s sleep. To improve the quality of your sleep, ideally, you should follow a sleep routine. This involves going to bed and waking up at the same time everyday for at least 5 days a week. Don’t set your alarm for the last minute when you have to rush to work. Instead, give up a few minutes of sleep so that you can go through your morning rituals leisurely. Stretch Jumping out of bed is not a great way to start the day. Instead, turn on your side and slowly raise yourself from the bed. Once upright, stretch your body and take a few deep breaths. The early morning is the best time to perform yoga asanas like surya namaskar, pranayama, aulom vilom etc. This stimulates nerve endings and makes you more alert as you start your day. If yoga isn’t your cup of tea, take a short walk around the block. Sip some Tea Once you have completed your morning ablutions, sit down and sip on a cup of ginger tea. This tea kick starts your metabolism, stimulates digestion and helps boost blood circulation. To make yourself a cup of ginger tea, steep a tsp of grated ginger in a cup of boiling water for a few minutes. Strain and drink. You could add a few drops of lemon juice or half a tsp of honey if you like. Do not multi task while drinking your tea but focus on the taste and aromas of the tea itself. Smile Starting the day by thinking about the never ending to-do list ahead of you can be stressful in itself. Instead, start your day with a smile by thinking about something good. Give thanks to the universe for all that you have been blessed with. This will help you face the day with a more positive outlook. If you like writing, this is the time to put down a note to yourself.   Read the full article