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Ancient-modern concordance in Ayurvedic plants: some examples
1University of Delhi, B.R.A. Centre for Biomedical Research, Delhi, India. ssda@ndf.vsnl.net.in
Environmental Health Perspectives
|September 30, 1999
Summary
Ayurveda, an ancient Indian medicine system, utilizes complex plant-based preparations. Scientific investigation validates traditional uses, leading to modern drugs for conditions like hypertension and high cholesterol.
Area of Science:
- Traditional Indian Medicine
- Pharmacology
- Ethnobotany
Background:
- Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of holistic healthcare predating 2500 B.C.
- It employs complex medicinal preparations, primarily from about 1,250 plant species.
- Scientific validation of Ayurvedic remedies has been sporadic since the mid-19th century.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the scientific basis of Ayurvedic medicine.
- To identify modern therapeutic applications for traditional Indian medicinal plants.
- To document ancient-modern concordances in plant-based treatments.
Main Methods:
- Review of historical Ayurvedic texts and modern scientific literature.
- Isolation and chemical analysis of active compounds from medicinal plants.
- Clinical and pharmacological evaluation of plant-derived substances.
Main Results:
- Isolation of a key alkaloid from *Rauwolfia serpentina* (sarpagandha) validated its use for hypertension, insomnia, and insanity.
- Development of an antihyperlipoproteinemic drug from *Commiphora wightti* gum-resin, confirming its traditional use for lipid disorders.
- Identified concordances for other Ayurvedic plants like *Asparagus racemosus*, *Cedrus deodara*, and *Psoralea corylifolia*.
Conclusions:
- Scientific investigation supports the efficacy of numerous Ayurvedic plant-based treatments.
- Ayurvedic materia medica offers a valuable resource for discovering novel pharmaceuticals.
- Ancient-modern concordance highlights the potential of traditional medicine in contemporary healthcare.