Haritaki (Chebulic myrobalan) and its varieties
Kshirod Kumar Ratha1, Girish Chandra Joshi2
1Research Officer (Ayurveda), National Research Institute of Ayurvedic Drug Development, CCRAS, Department of AYUSH, Ministry of H and FW, Govt of India, 4 CN Block, Sector V, Bidhan Nagar, Kolkata, West Bengal, India.
Ayu
|February 7, 2014
Summary
This review details the various types of Haritaki (Terminalia chebula Retz.), a plant with significant therapeutic value widely found in India. It explores their sources, identification, and medicinal applications as documented in traditional texts.
Area of Science:
- Ayurvedic medicine
- Ethnobotany
- Pharmacognosy
Background:
- Haritaki (Terminalia chebula Retz.) from the Combretaceae family is a plant with extensive therapeutic properties.
- It is widely distributed across India, found up to an altitude of 1500 meters.
- Ayurvedic classics and other medical literature describe various Haritaki varieties, their sources, and uses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a detailed review of the different varieties of Haritaki.
- To consolidate information on the sources, identifying features, and therapeutic uses of Haritaki varieties.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of Ayurvedic classics.
- Review of other relevant medical literature.
- Compilation of data on Haritaki varieties.
Main Results:
- Identification of multiple varieties of Haritaki.
- Documentation of their respective botanical sources.
- Summarization of their unique identifying features.
- Cataloging of their traditional therapeutic applications.
Conclusions:
- Terminalia chebula Retz. is the sole botanical source of Haritaki.
- Understanding the distinct varieties, their origins, and medicinal properties is crucial for effective utilization.
- This review provides a comprehensive overview for researchers and practitioners.
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