Medicinal Herbs Database

Althaea officinalis Linn - خطمی

2017-11-14T11:02:00.000+05:00

Family: Malvaceae
Arabic Name(s): Khatmi, Khatmitah
Urdu Name(s): Khatmi, Gul Khairo, خطمی
English Name(s): Marsh Mallow

Parts Used
Root, seeds and flowers.

Quality/Temperament
Warm, inclined towards balanced temperament.

Functions and Properties (Pharmacological Actions)
Emollient, demulcent, suppurative, expectorant, mucilaginous, repercussive. Reduces inflammation and irritation of the respiratory and gastro-intestinal tract as well as of the urinary passages. Its action is referred as mechanical in as much as it forms a soft smooth covering over the inflamed or irritated parts with which it comes in contact and thus protects them from friction, and allows the process of repair to go on undisturbed.

Specific Action
Suppurative, repercussive, emollient, expectorant.

Medicinal Uses
Marsh Mallow is recommended as an expectorant for cough and to relieve pharynx and chest congestion. Infusion of the flowers given in bronchial catarrh and in bronchitis. Roots are used as demulcent in bronchitis and seeds as useful in kidney and bladder troubles. Leaves and flowers are also applied to burns. In bilious diarrhoea, infusion of the root is of utmost use. Due to its repercussive and resolvent actions, prescribed in sciatica, rheumatism, pleurisy, pneumonia and chest congestion, and in catarrhs of pectoral (infectious or environmental origin) or cephalic regions, as suppurative and expectorant in (the condition of flu, nasal catarrh, headache, indigestion, etc.) it acts as decongestant, and emollient.

Compound Preparations
Laooq Sapistan, Joshanda, Banadiq-al-Bazur, Dawai Aab Zan, Matbokh Nazla, Joshina, Sherbet Ustukhudus, Laooq Mo'tadil, Laooq Nazla, Marham Dakhliyun.

Dosage
5 g.

Corrigent
Honey and fennel (Foeniculum vulgareMill.).

Tenedium
Khubazi(Malva sylvestrisLinn.)

Comments
Long-term use or large doses may cause some harm to stomach due to its collection/resolution of turbid matter (malhumours) from pectoral region and expectoration through the digestive tract.

Alpinia galanga Willd. - خولنجان

2017-11-14T10:52:00.000+05:00

Family: Zingiberaceae Scitaminae
Arabic Name(s): Kholanjan
Urdu Name(s): Khulanjan, Khalanjan, Kalijan, خولنجان
English Name(s): Galangal, Java Galangal

Parts Used
Rhizomes.

Quality/Temperament
Warm and dry in second order.

Functions and Properties (Pharmacological Actions)
Aromatic stimulant, stomachic, carminative, sialagogue, masticatory, antituberculous. The drug has a slight irritant action on the mucus membrane of the stomach and produces a reflex increase in bronchial secretion.

Specific Action
Pectoral (especially in tuberculous conditions) and cardiacal.

Medicinal Uses
Galangal being effective against phlegmatic and atrabilious affections included in cardiac tonic, liver and stomach tonic preparations. As a sialagogue and to alleviate stammering it is applied over the tongue or prescribed as masticatory. As expectorant and antiphlegmatic recommended largely in asthma, bronchitis, bronchial catarrh, whooping cough and phlegmatic hoarseness. In incontinence of urine, and kidney pain of cold (humoural predominance) origin it is also administered. As aphrodisiac included in electuaries (ma'jun) and powders (prescribed for the purpose) especially to the old-age persons. In children it has more benefit in pectoral affections. Therefore as linctus along with honey, betel root and glycyrrhiza it is considered of significance in such complaints. Literature reveals that as masticatory, it removes disagreeable (foul) smell in mouth as well as it finds extensive use by singers in addition to glycyrrhiza.

Compound Preparations
Hab Jadwar, Jawarish Ood Shirin, Arq Pan, Laooq Surfah, Lubub Mo'tadil, Ma'jun Chob-Chini, Ma'jun Khadar, Jawarish Jalinus, Ma'jun Samagh, Ma'jun Muqawwi wa Mumsik, Ma'jun Sa'leb.

Dosage
2-3 g

Corrigent
Cochlospermum religiosum (L.) Alston,Santalum album Linn.,Bambusa arundinaceaRetz. and Pimpinella anisum Linn.

Tenedium
Kababe Khandan(Zanthoxylatum armatum DC.).

Comments
Large doses or long-term use has harmful effect of desensitizing the respiratory centres and in general may adversely affect the cardiovascular system. Large doses may arrest urination temporarily.

Aloe barbadensis Mill. - ایلوہ

2017-11-14T02:08:00.000+05:00

Syn.: Aloe vera Acut. non Mill.,
Aloe perfoliata Linn. var. vera Linn.
Family: Liliaceae
Arabic Name(s): Sibr Saqutari
Urdu Name(s): Ailwa, Musabbar, Airio, Airwa, ایلوہ
English Name(s): Aloes

Parts Used
Extract of leaf.

Quality/Temperament
Warm and dry in second order.

Functions and Properties (Pharmacological Actions)
Stomachic-tonic (in small doses), purgative (in large doses), emmenagogue, anthelmintic, detersive for ulcers. Good for improving texture of skin, effective resolvent for local inflammations.

Specific Action
Esteemed laxative (cathartic), anticonstipatory.

Medicinal Uses
Aloe is frequently used in traditional medicine as anticonstipatory. It gets rid of the waste and obstructive matter present in cephalic, ophthalmic, and skeletal sites possible. With suitable drugs prescribed in atrabilious disorders. As stomach tonic given in very little quantities. As anthelmintic either given as enema or added with some suitable oil applied in the like manner inside the anal ring. In dysmenorrhoea its tablets are administered in prescribed doses. Its compound preparations are effective as purgative of relevant malhumours particularly cephalic, stomach and liver. Pulp with honey and turmeric is given in coughs and cold, as well as in glandular swellings. Pulp is applied to painful inflammations of the body and to chronic ulcers. Freshly expressed juice is an almost universal refrigerant application in local inflammations and as cosmetic with other suitable remedies. In inflammation of the breasts, its tubers ground with turmeric powder and applied locally gives relief. Aloe veragel has been approved as a very effective local treatment for improving skin texture and for successfully treating chronic ulcers (when used as salve).

Compound Preparations
Hab-Tinkar, Hab-Shabyar, Hab-Mudir, Hab-Sibr, Hab-Ayaraj, Kuhl Roshnai, Kushta Bussad, Kushta Khubs al-Hadid, Kuhl Khar Mohra, Kushta Tila Kalan, Kushta Gaodanti, Ma'jun Talkh, Halwa-i-Ghaikwar.

Dosage
125 to 500 mg.

Corrigent
Cochlospermum religiosum(L.) Alston. (Katira).

Tenedium
Operculina turpethum(L.) Manso. (Turbad).

Comments
Applied as vaginal suppository it may act as abortive. As it may cause intestinal irritation, thus referred as harmful when used in piles. To correct its griping effects confection of roses and mastich is added. Also regarded as antiaging.

Allium sativum Linn. - Lehsan

2017-11-14T01:41:00.003+05:00

Family: Liliaceae
Arabic Name(s): Ser, Thum, Sum
Urdu Name(s): Lehsan, Tuma, Thom, Sum, Aogaa, Thum,لہسن
English Name(s): Garlic

Parts Used
Bulb.
Quality/Temperament
Warm and dry in the third order.

Functions and Properties (Pharmacological Actions)
Stimulant, carminative, emmenagogue, antirheumatic, anthelmintic, alterative, expectorant, diaphoretic, disinfectant, diuretic. Oil is a powerful stimulant and antiseptic, prevents irritation and aids absorption of medicines into the bloodstream. Garlic is generally regarded as anticholesterolemic, as an effective hypotensive maintain blood pressure at a reasonable level. Also referred to as a valuable antidiabetic.

Specific Action
Blood purifier, alterative, tonic for gastrointestinal tract.

Medicinal Uses
Garlic preparations are considered as useful to renew blood, cleanse it of all impurities, regulate digestion, and remove all parasites of the intestines which might be injurious to health. Recommended frequently for diseases of the lungs, atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, rheumatism, asthma, chronic bronchial catarrh, intestinal complaints, loss of appetite, constipation, and worms. When eaten in the cold season, it is said to ward off attacks of rheumatism and neuralgic pains. Garlic produces copious diuresis and therefore is useful in dropsy. Externally garlic is used as a liniment in infantile convulsions and other nervous spasmodic affections, as a poultice to allay retention of urine due to functional debility of the bladder. For pulmonary affections bruised garlic is applied to chest as poultice or liniment. When rubbed over ringworm it brings relief. Garlic juice slightly warmed is used as drops in otalgia, for relief of pain in the internal ear and locally applied to indolent tumors, for scabies and maggots infesting ulcers, ulcerated surfaces and wounds.
Compound Preparations
Roghan Seer, Durr-e-Seer, Tiryaq-e-Faruq, Roghan Surkh, Ma'jun Seer, Ma'jun Seer Alvi Khan.
Dosage
1-3 g.
Corrigent
The garlic pearls to be fried in almond oil, with coriander seeds water, with salt or in water.
Tenedium
The wild variety.
Comments
Excessive use may reduce cholesterol levels in the body. Prolong use or large doses contra-indicated for women in pregnancy. Externally as a local stimulant and irritant, it reddens the skin and may cause vesication.

Allium Cepa Linn. - Piyaz - Onion

2013-03-18T13:46:00.001+05:00

Family: Liliaceae

Arabic Name(s): Bizr Basal

Urdu Name(s): Piyaz, Basr, Basal, پیاز

English Name(s): Onion

Parts Used

Bulbs and seeds.

Quality/Temperament

Warm and dry in first-order/warm in the third order, dry in the first order with moistness.

Functions and Properties (Pharmacological Actions)

Resolvent and suppurative, expectorant, detersive, aphrodisiac, deobstruent, antidotary, diuretic, and emmenagogue. Externally stimulant and rubefacient. Roasted acts as demulcent internally as well as externally to indolent ulcers, bruises etc., intestinal and urinary antiseptic with mild action, promote bile production, reduce blood sugar, stimulate intestinal smooth musculature and uterus.

Specific Action

Aphrodisiac and suppurative (for inflammations).

Medicinal Uses

For obtaining resolvent action on inflammation, onion is kept in a dry warm atmosphere and then applied under the bandage. As detersive its water is used for bruising the suitable medicines applied in leucoderma and vitiligo. To open the blind hemorrhoids tied over the piles. Extract of onion with calcium carbonate is said to be effective in cholera. In vinegar onion sliced and taken is said to prevent epidemic attacks. Extract in honey when applied as collyrium clears the vision and eyes. Bulbs are regarded as useful in fever, dropsy, catarrh, and chronic bronchitis, in colic and scurvy mixed with common salt and administered prove useful. Extract is dropped warm into ears relieve earache. Mixed with mustard oil in equal quantity it is a good application to rheumatic pains and other inflammatory swellings.

Compound Preparations

Jawarish Zar'uni Ambari Ba Nuskha Kalan, Arq Ananas, Arq Hazim, Lubub al-Asrar, Lubub Kabir, Ma'jun Piyaz, Ma'jun Raig Mahi, Ma'jun Murawwehul-Arwah, Ma'jun Muqawwi wa Mumsik.

Dosage

Seeds 1 to 3 g. (approximately), onion juice: 24-36 g. (approximately).

Corrigent

Vinegar, salt, honey, pomegranate extract.

Tenedium

Allium ascaloniumLinn. (Gandana).

Comments

The bulbs used around the world as vegetable and salad as an article of nutrition.

Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa - بیلگری

2012-11-02T00:37:00.000+05:00

Syn.: Crataeva marmelos Linn.

Family: Rutaceae

Arabic Name(s): Bel, Qas-i-Hindi

Urdu Name(s): Bel Giri, Bel phal, Bel, Kathori, بیلگری

English Name(s): Bael Fruit

Parts Used

Epicarp of fruit or ripe fruit.

Quality/Temperament

Cold and moist in second order/cold in second order, dry in third.

Functions and Properties (Pharmacological Actions)

Mucilaginous (glutinous), alterative, astringent, anticonstipative, haemostatic, stomach tonic, antidysenteric, brain and cardiac tonic. The bark is regarded as antipyretic (and cooling).

Specific Action

Mucilaginous, antidysenteric, alterative, antidiabetic.

Medicinal Uses

Due to its mucilaginous, astringent action epicarp of Baelfruit is useful in chronic dysentery, in habitual constipation and several relevant digestive tract disorders like dyspepsia, flatulence and chronic diarrhoea with or without fever. Its conserve and syrup both have astringent as well as softening mild laxative properties and is given during convalescence after diarrhoea. Being useful anticonvulsant its sweet preparations are given as preventive in cholera epidemics and for piles, and as useful antihaemorrhagic given in all kinds of soft tissue haemorrhages (of systemic origin) particularly intestinal and excess blood loss during menstruation. With honey or black pepper in lukewarm water it is a useful prescription in catarrhal affections and thus used successively against biliousness and fevers (as alterative and astringent). Also useful in amoebic dysentery and flatulent colic and as demulcent and febrifuge to people suffering from general debility.

Compound Preparations

Murraba Bael, Murabba Belgari, Ma'jun Bawasir, Sherbet Bael Giri.

Dosage

2-3 g. (in powdered form), in infusion 3-5 g. (approximately).

Corrigent

Sugar.

Tenedium

Plantago ovata Forssk. (Ispaghol) in diarrhoea and dysentery.

Comments

Extensive use as single or in compound preparations may cause obstructions and may become a cause of piles/ haemorrhoids. Normal doses or quantities are considered useful to create required acid-base balance in the body. Baelis an appraised herbal drug (of Unani medicine) for its antidiarrhoeal effect.

Adiantum Capillus Veneris Linn. - پرسیاؤشاں، ہنسراج

2012-11-02T00:22:00.004+05:00

Family: Polypodiaceae

Arabic Name(s): Sha'rul Tabbar, Lahiyatul Hammar

Urdu Name(s): Pershiaoashan, Hansraj, Persiao-shan, پرسیاؤشاں، ہنسراج

English Name(s): Maiden Hair Fern

Parts Used

Leaves, above-ground parts.

Quality/Temperament

Warm and dry in first-order/normal or balanced in warmness and dryness.

Functions and Properties (Pharmacological Actions)

Resolvent, demulcent, concoctive for phlegm and atrabile, expectorant, deobstruent, detersive, diuretic, anticatarrhal, emmenagogue.

Specific Action

Concoctive, expectorant, and purgative for bile and atrabile, anticatarrhal.

Medicinal Uses

Being concoctive and expectorant useful in pleurisy, acute pneumonia, influenza, bronchitis, and asthma. In fevers due to excess phlegmatic humour used as concoctive with other suitable drugs. Being diuretic and emmenagogue given for expelling the placenta. As detersive and desiccative applied on sores, ulcers, alopecia, alopecia furfuracea, for this purpose bruised to powder and applied on oral sores, stomatitis, pustules and boils of children. Resolves hard swellings, scrofulous glands, and other local inflammations. Burnt into ashes, the herb has been regarded as effective when hairs are washed with it in headache and insanity (of temporary origin). Mostly its decoction is used in Unani medicine and not used alone because it brings desiccation.

Compound Preparations

Matbookh Bukhar, Laooq Sapistan, Sherbet Mudir Tams, Sherbet Ustukhudus, Sherbet Faryad Ras, Sherbet Kaknaj, Sherbet Mushil.

Dosage

5 to 10 g.

Corrigent

Pistacia lentiscus Linn. and flowers of Viola odorataLinn.

Tenedium

Viola odorataLinn. (Banafsha), Glycyrrhiza glabraLinn.

Comments

Described as harmful if administered to patients suffering from spleen disorders. Regular use may cause dessication.

Adhatoda Vasica Nees - Bansa - Arosa

2012-11-02T00:07:00.002+05:00

Syn.: Justicia adhatoda Linn.

Family: Acanthaceae

Arabic Name(s): Hasheshatus-Sa'al

Urdu Name(s): Adusa, Bansa,Basonta, Arosa, اڑوسہ، بانسہ

English Name(s): Vasaka

Parts Used

Leaf, flowers (Gulqand).

Quality/Temperament

Warm and dry in first order.

Functions and Properties (Pharmacological Actions)

Expectorant, antispasmodic, alterative, diuretic, germicide, antiparalytic, concoctive (for phlegm).

Specific Action

Expectorant and antispasmodic.

Medicinal Uses

Chiefly used as expectorant and bronchial antiseptic in chest diseases, efficacious in cough and asthma. Also regarded as of much benefit in tuberculosis. Juice of the leaves is recommended in fever and rheumatism. Fresh juice of the leaves is given in dose of about 12 g with the addition of honey and long pepper in cough and phthisis. Flowers, leaves, and roots are frequently regarded as an antiseptic (internally).

Compound Preparations

Sherbet Aijaz and in antitussive and blood purifier syrups.

Dosage

Powder 3 g., decoction 3 to 9 ml.

Corrigent

Black pepper (Piper nigrumLinn.) and honey.

Tenedium

Hyssopus officinalisLinn. (Zufa), and the roots and stem bark of the plant.

Comments

In large quantities (large doses) it is irritant and may cause vomiting and diarrhoea.

Acorus Calamus Linn - Agar

2012-08-02T03:44:00.002+05:00

Family: Araceae

Arabic Name(s): Ood Alvaj, Waj, Kani Kaathi, عود الوج

Urdu Name(s): Waj, Bach, Agar Turki, بچ، اگر ترکی، وج

English Name(s): Sweet Flag

Parts Used

Root.

Quality/Temperament

Warm and dry in the second order.

Functions and Properties (Pharmacological Actions)

Pungent, bitter, stomachic demulcent, detersive, emetic, anti phlegmatic, desiccative, nervine stimulant, antiepileptic, deobstruent, depurative, diuretic, emmenagogue, and aphrodisiac, antirheumatic, assists parturition, anthelmintic, antidiarrhoeal, antidysenteric, antiflatulent, antiasthmatic (particularly anti phlegmatic).

Specific Action

Aromatic stimulant, anti phlegmatic.

Medicinal Uses

The root possesses a quality of clearing the mind of waste matters remain there or continuously deposit there particularly the phlegmatic (malhumours) therefore its use with other suitable herbs proves useful in forgetfulness, palsy, paralysis, stammering insanity, epilepsy, and paralysis. During epidemics chewing the pieces of root is regarded as beneficial in protecting the individual from such attack. Root bruised mixed with honey and administered to children (like Pyrethrum) helps children to speak (confidently). With Glycyrrhizagiven in children's fever, cough, common cold and colic. It imparts strength to muscles and is a useful stomachic, relieves dysentery, diarrhea, flatulence and gastric troubles (like indigestion). Decoction is effective as diuretic and emmenagogue and fine powder used as household collyrium to improve eyesight. Paste of the root applied on hydrocele gives relief. A pessary composed of a root, saffron, and milk is used to promote delivery, a hip bath of the decoction is also effective for this purpose. Roots bruised mixed with black pepper and coriander in water are not only useful in children's' diarrhea or dysentery but also in bronchial affections of the children.

Compound Preparations

Anqaruyai Kabir, Itrifal Deedan, Sufuf Musaffi Khas, Ma'jun Baladur, Ma'jun Muqil.

Dosage

1-3 g. (approximately).

Corrigent

Cochlospermum religiosum(L.) Alston (Katira) and honey.

Tenedium

Anacyclus pyrethrum DC. /Chrysanthemum indicumLinn. (Aqarqarha) and Cuminum cyminum Linn. (Zira Safaid).

Comments

In large doses it may produce violent and persistent emesis. Dried powdered if spread on a selected site serves as good insect-repellent.

Aconitum Heterophyllum - Atees

2012-08-01T04:27:00.001+05:00

Aconitum heterophyllum Wall. ex Royle

Aconitum heterophyllum var. bractcatum Stapf.

Family: Ranunculaceae

Arabic Name(s): Khalequl Namr, Atees, اتیس، خالق النمر

Urdu Name(s): Atees, Sharangi, Atis Shireen, Patis, Chittijari

English Name(s): Indian Aconite

Parts Used

Root.

Quality/Temperament

Warm and dry in the second order.

Functions and Properties (Pharmacological Actions)

Considered by Traditional practitioners as the non-toxic variety of Aconitum Ferox Wall.; A. nepellusLinn. (bichnak). Antiperiodic, analgesic, local anodyne, aphrodisiac, carminative, anti phlegmatic, antiatrabilious, astringent, styptic, diaphoretic, resolvent of phlegm and antiflatulent.

Specific Action

Antiperiodic (alterative), alexipharmic (antidotal).

Medicinal Uses

Atees(various varieties of yellow, red, black) is used due to its astringent and styptic activities in diarrhea, dysentery, bleeding piles, menorrhagia. It is regarded as alexipharmic and aphrodisiac, removes corrupt humours and thus helps alleviate diseases arise due to malhumours. It is a useful digestive and often administered in dyspepsia associated with diarrhea. With rose flowers in equal quantity as powder is comparatively more beneficial for infants and children. Stops nausea and vomiting. With other suitable drugs and as powder alone given to relieve periodic attack of fevers (malarial). White and black varieties are regarded as tonic, strengthen the body, effective against bilious complaints and plethoric conditions. Considered as the best tonic to relieve convalescence following periodic fevers of long duration.

Compound Preparations

Ma'jun Jograj Guggal, Sufuf Habis, Ma'jun Bawasir, Ma'jun Murawweh ul-Arwah.

Dosage

As powder 1 to 2 g., as decoction 3 to 5 g. (approximately).

Corrigent

Cold and moist (nutritional) articles.

Tenedium

Cinchona (bark) as antiperiodic.

Comments

When taken in large doses may cause (severe) constipation regarded as particularly toxic for stomach. Its use may exert local anesthetic effect upon the tongue.

Aconitum Chasmanthum - Mitha Tilia

2012-08-01T02:33:00.003+05:00

(1) Aconitum chasmanthum Stapf. ex Holmes

Syn.: Aconitum napellus Linn.,

A. napellus Linn. var. hians P. Bruhl

(2) Aconitum rotundifolium Kar. & Kir.

Syn.: A. napellus Linn. var. rotundifolium H. & T.

(3) Aconitum violaceum Stapf.

Syn.: A. napellus H. & T.

(4) Aconitum violaceum var. robustum Stapf.

Syn.: A. napellus H. & T.

Family: Ranunculaceae

Arabic Name(s): Besh, بیش

Urdu Name(s): Bichnag, Bishnak, Mitha Tilia, بچھناگ، میٹھا تیلیا

English Name(s): Aconite

Parts Used

Root.

Quality/Temperament

Warm and dry in fourth-order.

Functions and Properties (Pharmacological Actions)

Sedative, anodyne, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, febrifuge and tonic, stimulates all sensory nerve-endings, antineuralgic, antirheumatic. Diuretic and emmenagogue, local anesthetic, especially active against atrabilious and phlegmatic disorders, a counter-irritant.

Specific Action

Antipyretic, atrabilious-anti phlegmatic (for atrabile), local anesthetic, antidote. Detoxified `Aconite' is considered active against `all' human disorders.

Medicinal Uses

Described as effective against all such fevers which are due to inflammations, acts as a useful diuretic and lessens local sensitivity, in pleurisy and pneumonia it relieves fever and alleviates pain. Externally effective against neuralgic pains particularly sciatica, tic doloreaux, migraine, etc. and included in embrocations where increased sensitivity is required to be diminished, thus proves useful in tonifying the external genitals. In amenorrhoea which is due to cold malhumour (effects) it proves useful. In atrabilious- phlegmatic disorders like leprosy, leucoderma, asthma, and chronic ulcers it gives excellent results.

Compound Preparations

Hab-e-Rahat, Hab-e-Nuqra, Johar-e-Yabruj, Al-Ahmar, Hab- Miskeen Nawaz, Dawai-Dipti Saheb.

Dosage

15 mg. to 30 mg. (approximately).

Corrigent

Leaves of Ricinus communisLinn., and to cause vomiting.

Tenedium

Jadwar(Delphinum denudatumWall.).

Comments

Nondetoxified `Aconite' is a drastic poison and counter-irritant. It causes irritation in the stomach and intestines, may cause breathlessness, organs become weak, spasm affects the respiration badly and the patient may become faint. Strychnine has been reported as its antidote (as well as Delphinium denudatumWall. and Capparis decidua(Forssk.) Edgew. root). It must be detoxified before being mixed with herbal preparations.

Achyranthes Aspera Linn. - Charchitah

2012-08-01T02:24:00.004+05:00

Achyranthes aspera Linn.

Syn.: Achyranthes indica Linn.,

Centrostachys aspera (L.) Stanley;

Achyranthes aspera forma robustioides Suss.

Family: Amaranthaceae

Arabic Name(s): Charchita Ashneen, Atsheerul-Tahis, چرچٹہ آشنین

Urdu Name(s): Charchitah, Khardar-Guna, Pathkanda, چرچٹہ، پھٹکنڈا، خاردار گونا

Abat-Kandari, Charchutta

English Name(s): Prickly Chaff Flower

Parts Used

Above ground parts.

Quality/Temperament

Warm and dry in the second order.

Functions and Properties (Pharmacological Actions)

Astringent carminative, diuretic, alterative, antiperiodic, stomach tonic, resolvent, purgative. Seeds - emetic; root - astringent. Expectorant, blood purifier. Regarded as useful (especially root) for insect bites.

Specific Action

Useful against insect bites, to resolve suppurating tumours in the armpits and bloody piles, antimalarial.

Medicinal Uses

Decoction of the root and twigs is effective against stomach ache, flatulence, colic, dropsy, ringworm and other skin eruptions. In bloody piles the prickly chaff flower and leaves (6 grams) with some black peppers are bruised and their infusion is given in recommended doses. Paste of leaves (a bit warm) applied over the paralyzed parts of the body proves useful. Paste of root in water is also useful when applied over the suppurating swellings. Decoction of root and leaves is effective against renal dropsies, general anasarca, bowel complaints and piles. In the early stages of diarrhoea and dysentery powdered leaves with honey are useful. For primary syphilitic sores, fresh juice mixed with little opium (or seeds of Papaver somniferumLinn.) is administered for relief. Infusion of the root is useful mild astringent in bowel complaints. Seeds soaked overnight in milk then ground into emulsion and administered in biliousness. Ash of root and honey regarded as effective for cough. Ash of whole herb in camel milk is useful against dropsy, bilious cough and stomach ache.

Compound Preparations

Kushta Sam ul-Far (Kushta Sankhia), Kushta Shangraf, Kushta Hartal Warqi.

Dosage

5 to 7 g.

Corrigent

Piper nigrumLinn. and honey.

Tenedium

Jawakhar(Potassium carbonate).

Comments

Suppresses appetite, large doses may cause abortion.

Achillea Millefolium Linn. - Biranjasif

2012-08-01T02:11:00.001+05:00

Family: Compositae / Asteraceae

Arabic Name(s): Huzambil, حزمبل

Urdu Name(s): Biranjasif, Gomadar, برنجاسف، گومادر

English Name(s): Yarrow

Parts Used

Leaves and flowers.

Quality/Temperament

Warm and dry in the third order.

Functions and Properties (Pharmacological Actions)

The herb is described as a stimulant, tonic, carminative, emmenagogue, antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory.

Specific Action

Anti-inflammatory and carminative.

Medicinal Uses

It has a specific action on the pelvic organs and is used in amenorrhoea, menorrhagia and leucorrhoea. Also given in dyspepsia, flatulence, diarrhoea and haemorrhoids. Externally used as an application to suppurating wounds. Active ingredients of Achillealike choline and achilleine are regarded as lipotropic and sudorific and effective in infectious hepatitis.

Achillea millefolium Linn., therefore, enters into many such compound preparations where indigestion, hepatic insufficiency or anaemic conditions are primary symptoms, or in nutrition-related complications.

Compound Preparations

Arq Biranjasif, Arq Gaz, Arq Maul Lahm Mako Kasniwala.

Dosage

3 to 5 g.

Corrigent

Anisun(Pimpinella anisumLinn.).

Tenedium

Babuna (Matricaria chamomillaLinn.). (Biranjasifin local market is also available as Artemisia vulgarisLinn.).

Comments

In large doses, it may cause headache and vertigo.

(Linn. f.) Willd. - Kad Hindi

2012-06-05T01:22:00.005+05:00

Syn.: Mimosa catechu Linn.

Family: Mimosaceae

Arabic Name(s): Kad Hindi, کاد ہندی

Urdu Name(s): Kath, Katha, Katho, کاٹھ

English Name(s): Catechu

Parts Used

Bark and wood, extract, flowering tops, and gum.

Quality/Temperament

Cold and dry in second order.

Functions and Properties (Pharmacological Actions)

Astringent, blood purifier, desiccative, anthelmintic, antidiarrhoeal, good for spongy gums and toothache, for bleeding gums and for elongation of the uvula. Externally effective against chronic ulcerations, foetid discharges, and bedsores.

Specific Action

Powerful astringent.

Medicinal Uses

As gargles and tooth powder or paste, catechu is useful for strengthening the gums, to impart astringency to them, and to stop bleeding. With cinnamon and opium administered to stop diarrhea and hemorrhages. As powder or concentrated cold decoction applied in thrush and Muguet especially in children. With cinnamon and nutmeg kept on the site of toothache, as well as combined in a specific form (for example pills) is effective in toothache, loss of voice, and in cases of mercurial salivation, in hoarseness, relaxed sore throat etc. Also employed to stuff the cavity of aching tooth. Ointment in vaseline or butter is a good local application to chronic ulceration with foetid discharge, in obstinate cases a little copper sulphate powder may be added within the ointment for external application. Ointment is also useful for bed sores (without copper sulphate) but powdered catechu for this purpose is preferred. Catechu decoction is useful for washing sore or cracked nipples and is included in preparations prescribed for gonorrhea, otitis, otorrhoea, etc. Preparation of catechu is useful for relieving blisters anywhere in the buccal cavity and externally in prurigo.

Compound Preparations

Zarur Qala'a, Sunun Mustahkam Dandan, Sunun Kalan, Hab Limun, Dawai Gilo, Marham Kharish Jadid.

Dosage

Powder 1-2 g. (approximately).

Corrigent

Myristica fragransHoutt., Musk and Ambergris.

Tenedium

Red ochre (Geru) and Oak galls, Gentiana kurrooor Picrorhiza kurrooaRoyle ex Benth. (Kutki).

Comments

Scattered on foothills in Western Himalayas ascending to 3000-4000 ft. Catechuis the resinous extract prepared from the wood by boiling it in water and inspissating the decoction.

Acacia Arabica (Lam.) Willd. - Samagh Arabi

2012-06-05T01:19:00.001+05:00

Family: Mimosaceae

Arabic Name(s): Samagh Arabi, Qarz, صمغ عربی

Urdu Name(s): Babul, Kikar, Mughilan, Baer jo Khur, ببول، کیکر، مغیلاں، بیر جو کھر

English Name(s): Acacia

Parts Used

Leaves, stem-bark, and the extract called "Aqaqiya", as well as gum.

Quality/Temperament

Bark and extract cold and dry in second-order, gum dry in second order.

Functions and Properties (Pharmacological Actions)

Gum acacia is demulcent and emollient, styptic, tonic, and astringent. a good binder for mixtures, tablets, or granules made overheat.

Specific Action

Powerful astringent and styptic, systemically as well as locally.

Medicinal Uses

Gum administered in the form of mucilage in diarrhea and dysentery, in diabetes mellitus. Powdered gum is used to arrest hemorrhages. Gum is also a useful adjunct to medicines used for pulmonary and catarrhal affections. Fried gum is a useful nutritive tonic and aphrodisiac in sexual debility.

Decoction of the bark is largely used as a gargle and mouth wash in cancerous and syphilitic affections. Also useful as local astringent douche or enema in gonorrhea, cystitis, vaginitis, leucorrhoea, piles etc. It is an effective astringent tonic in chronic diarrhea and diabetes mellitus.

Compound Preparations

Hab-e-Sil, Endemali, Hab Awaz Kusha, Hab-Ral, Sunun Paost Mughilan, Qurs Didan, Qurs Sailan, Qurs Silajit, Qurs Sailan Jadid, Hab-e-Mubarik, Laooq Sapistan.

Dosage

Bark 5 to 7 g., gum 1-3 g., extract 1 g. (gum approximately 1-1.5 g.).

Corrigent

The honey, gum and bark powder mixed together.

Tenedium

Guava-bark (Psidium guajavaLinn.).

Comments

Continuous or regular use (as a single remedy) may cause astringency and obstructions.

Abutilon Indicum (L.) Sweet - Kanghi

2012-06-05T01:13:00.003+05:00

Syn.: Sida Indica Linn.

Family: Malvaceae

Arabic Name(s): Abtiluon-Hindi, ابتیلون ہندی

Urdu Name(s): Kanghi, Mashtal Ghol, Peeli Buti, Kuho, Pat-tir, کنگھی، مشٹل گھول

English Name(s): Country Mallow

Parts Used

Leaves, seed, root.

Quality/Temperament

Warm and dry in a second order.

Functions and Properties (Pharmacological Actions)

Demulcent, astringent, styptic, antiseptic, carminative, resolvent. Ash of the above-ground parts as a whole possess diuretic, lithontriptic activities. Leaves mucilage is useful in chest affections as a sedative and for genito-urinary complaints.

Specific Action

Demulcent, diuretic, useful in piles, gonorrhea, and gleet.

Medicinal Uses

Mucilage of the leaves and flowers made into infusion is effective against chest affections particularly haemoptysis, as demulcent and sedative to stop diarrhea, to bring irresistible diuresis in gonorrhea, urethritis or gleet and to alleviate micturition the effect of infusion is substantiated by the presence of powdered Carum carviLinn. (Zira-Siyah). Leaves decoction is used as eyewash and mouth wash in toothache, for tender gums and upper respiratory tract disorders administered as gargles. Leaves infusion with some bruised black peppers proves useful in flatulent dyspepsia and bloody piles. Decoction as fomentation also relieves pain when applied under the bandage, reduces congestion, and coughs when given internally. Seeds are useful in decoction in piles, gonorrhea, gleet, and cystitis. Finely powdered drug when given orally act as expectorant and laxative. Root infusion relieves strangury and haematuria and used for recommended duration proves useful against chronic skin disorders e.g. leprosy. Infusion of leaves and flowers brings diuresis, thus get rid of urinary obstructions (may act as lithontriptic) and act as a urinary antiseptic.

Compound Preparations

Cuminum cyminumLinn. and the leaves and flowers of Abutilon Indicum (L.) Sweet. are ground and infusion is administered for relieving diarrhea and for diuresis in gonorrhea.

Dosage

Leaves 6 g. (approximately), seeds 7-12 g. (approximately).

Corrigent

Honey and Piper nigrumLinn. (Black Pepper).

Tenedium

Sweet preserve of Phyllanthus emblicaGaertn. (Murabba Amla) and syrup of potato infusion.

Comments

Traditionally its four varieties are common: first is Kanghi buti, second Khareti, third Khareti Kalanand fourth Gangeran. The excessive use is not advisable to very weak individuals or persons with drastically reduced weight.

Abrus Precatorius Linn. - Ghongchi

2012-06-05T01:06:00.000+05:00

Family: Papilionaceae

Arabic Name(s): Shisham, Batrah-Hindi, شیشم، بترہ ہندی

Urdu Name(s): Ratti, Ghongchi, Chanothi, Rattion, رتی، گھونگچی، چنوٹھی

English Name(s): Jequirity

Parts Used

Seeds.

Quality/Temperament

Warm and dry in the third order.

Functions and Properties (Pharmacological Actions)

The seeds are not used much internally due to their highly toxic effects. In external use the seeds possess resolvent, detergent, corrosive and desiccative actions. In embrocations sex stimulant. Internally in very small (recommended/ prescribed) doses as nervine, aphrodisiac and irritant- stimulant, purgative, emetic, abortive.

Specific Action

Externally resolvent, detersive, corrosive, desiccative. Internally stimulant.

Medicinal Uses

Seeds powdered and rubbed with Plumbago zeylanicaLinn. root and applied over the affected parts in leucoderma and psoriasis. Chaulmoogra oil continuous daily application for about a month cures such diseases as well as leprosy. Seeds are made into a paste in water and applied over contusions to reduce pain and swelling. Also applied on site of pain in sciatica, stiffness of shoulder-joints, paralysis and other nervous affections and inflammations, to resolve them and to reduce the pain. Seeds powdered and used as collyrium for treating pannus in the cornea which is due to the irritation of the granulation in conjunctivitis and granular lids. But this application at first causes purulent ophthalmia and this inflammation ceases gradually treating the basic disorder. But the method is regarded as extremely dangerous and is not advised to be practiced at large. Being corrosive and desiccative applied to putrefied wounds, ulcers, and hemorrhoids. Seeds powdered, boiled with milk have a powerful tonic and aphrodisiac action on the nervous system. However not much use is made of this property and the seeds are included in embrocations and oily preparations for irritative stimulation of the relative organs.

Compound Preparations

Roghan 'Ajeeb, Tila-i-Urusak (both white and red varieties seeds).

Dosage

In external application in a suitable base approximately 60-180 mg.

Corrigent

Fresh coriander, Alhagi maurorumMedic. (Turanjbin).

Tenedium

Psoralea corylifoliaLinn., as well as both varieties are tenedium for each other (red for white and vice versa).

Comments

There are three varieties according to the color of seeds: red (which is mentioned here), white and black. Seeds powder used as collyrium causes purulent ophthalmia (in some specific eye disorders) therefore only administered by much-experienced Hakims with great care. Root has been referred to be used as a substitute for licorice but this use does not seem justified because of toxic manifestation.

Abroma Augusta Linn. - Ulat-Kambal

2012-06-04T23:35:00.001+05:00

Family: Sterculiaceae

Arabic Name(s): Abromah, ابرومہ

Urdu Name(s): Ulat-Kambal, Olatkambol, الٹ کمبل، الٹ کمبول

English Name(s): Devil's Cotton

Parts Used

Root, root bark (aqueous extract), leaves, and stem.

Quality/Temperament

Warm and dry in the first order.

Functions and Properties (Pharmacological Actions)

Emmenagogue, uterine tonic, resolvent, diuretic.

Specific Action

Emmenagogue, uterine tonic.

Medicinal Uses

Reputed emmenagogue, generally given in cases of menstrual disorders, particularly in various types of dysmenorrhoea, pain of menstruation, it is administered to relieve functional uterine debility meritis, leucorrhoea and to treat sterility in women. Single administration (douche) regulates menstrual flow (desirable effect is produced if given two days before menstruation) and acts as a uterine tonic. Infusion of the fresh leaves and stems in cold water is very effective in gonorrhea. Single administration during the menses is regarded as effective in bringing the conception in young married women.

Compound Preparations

Administered along with other herbal ingredients, Masturin.

Dosage

Fresh viscid juice or aqueous extract (approximately 70 ml) of bark (2-4 grams) as douche before breakfast, or twice a day.

Corrigent

Sour food articles (citrus juice), Sikanjbin(Honey and vinegar syrup in water).

Tenedium

Ruta graveolensLinn. (Sudab), Peganum harmalaLinn. (Ispand/Harmal), Valeriana officinalis Linn. (Balchar), Adiantum capillus-veneris Linn. (Pershiaoashan).

Comments

The natural drug has been used indigenously from an early date however, the non-availability of published work on its ethnobotany, ethnopharmacology, and chemical composition appears to be the major reason behind its non-popularity. The shrub has long been known as a valuable fiber-yielding plant.