Sri Lanka Journal of Indigenous Medicine (SLJIM)

The effect of external application of a paste of leaves of Achyranthes aspera L. on bleeding time: A pilot study

2024-07-30

Usage of medicinal flora as home remedies is popular in the modern society due to economic benefits. Achyranthes aspera (Apamarga, Karal heba), is a valuable plant and a paste of leaves of it, is applied on minor wounds by Sri Lankans to prevent bleeding. As it is important to investigate the pharmacodynamic properties of the plant on wound bleeding, the current study was caried out to detect the effect of Achyranthes aspera leaves on bleeding time. The setting was the Faculty of Indigenous Medicine. The undergraduates of the faculty were considered as the target group as it was less cumbersome and to reduce age gap issues. Bleeding time was tested with less invasive Duke method. Normal bleeding time of the selected group (n=16) was obtained as the control. The same group was used for the test also and this was to overcome the issues such as age gap, sex gap and health differences. In the test, a paste of pure crushed leaves (25 mg) of the plant was applied to the pricked site. Then, at every 30 seconds, the site was observed for bleeding with the blotting paper (by removing the paste and touch the area with paper). The bleeding time was obtained at the time of stoppage of bleeding. The average bleeding times of control and test was 63.35 and 37.50 seconds respectively and the difference was statically significant (P<0.05) under the paired t test. Thus, this confirms that the bleeding time has been significantly reduced by the materials of crushed plant leaves. Bleeding time is regulated mainly by the formation of platelet plug and constriction of blood vessels in the wound area. Reduction of bleeding time by the plant material, could be due to the phytochemicals such as flavonoids, tannins, which possesses astringent effect with which reduce the blood flow to the wound area. Further, phytochemicals which have anti prostaglandin property also reduce the vasodilation. Thus, the study will be a platform for scientists to conduct more research on the Achyranthes and develop a novel drug for wound bleeding.

In-vitro screening of DPPH free radical scavenging activity of freeze-dried extract of Crateva adansonii DC. stem bark decoction (Lunuwarana pothu kalan 12 Kashaya)

2024-07-30

Normal cellular metabolism in body produces highly reactive molecules called Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS). Excessive production of ROS can lead to oxidative stress causing damage to cells of body. Anti-oxidants are compounds that neutralize ROS and protect cells from oxidative damage. Natural anti-oxidants derived from plants are important due to their potential health benefits and minimal side effects. Crateva adansonii DC is an evergreen tree which is in family Capparidaceae. Ayurveda authentic texts have indicated the stem bark decoction of this plant (Lunuwarana pothu kalan 12 kashaya) for treatment of Mutra ashmari (urinary calculi). The objective of this study is in-vitro screening of the antioxidant activity of freeze-dried extract of Crateva adansonii DC stem bark decoction through DPPH free radical scavenging assay. The free radical used in this assay is 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) and Trolox was used as the standard. The results revealed that the extract was capable of neutralizing the DPPH free radicals by 8.06±0.39%, 12.59±0.86%, 21.69±0.17%, 35.21±0.88% and 56.73±0.35% at concentrations of 78.13, 156.25, 321.5, 625 and 1250µg/ml. IC50 was found to be 1161.51±18.12µg/ml (Trolox IC50 10.06±0.10µg/ml) for the extract. According to the previous studies the stem bark of this plant was positive for alkaloids, tannins, saponins flavonoids, steroids, terpenoides, glycosides and proteins. It has been proven that presence of phytochemicals like flavonoids, terpenoides, saponins and phenols can contribute towards the anti-oxidant activity. So, this DPPH free radical scavenging activity could be due to the presence of such phytochemicals in this plant. Therefore, it can be concluded that the therapeutic effect of this decoction could be due to its DPPH free radical scavenging property.

In vitro anti - candida activity of an indigenous mouth wash used in Ayurveda practice

2024-07-30

The relation between oral diseases and the activities of microbial species that form part of the micro biota of the oral cavity is well established. This study was focused to investigate anti-candida effect of an indigenous mouth wash used in Ayurveda practice which is mentioned in authentic text as Gandusha (mouth wash). Candida albicans is the most common fungal pathogen effects on oral mucosa. The study was based on anti-candida susceptibility test by using clinically isolated culture of Candida albicans as “standard fungal pathogen”, sterile normal saline as a “negative control” and antifungal solution as “positive control” using agar well diffusion method having 8mm diameter wells. Each well was loaded with 75µl of aqueous extract of an indigenous mouth wash and Amphotericin B anti-fungal preparation as positive control against Candida albicans. 75µl of sterile distilled water was pipetted into the remaining well as negative control. Each sample was triplicated. The results revealed that the indigenous mouth wash inhibited the clinical isolates of Candida albicans (zone of inhibition=10±0.22 mm) and has considerable anti-candida activity against clinically isolated Candida albicans.

Rapid detection of adulteration of sesame oil with peanut oil and other edible oils

2024-07-30

Sesame oil has culinary, medicinal, and industrial uses. It is valued for its distinct aroma, flavour, and health benefits. Due to its high demand and the higher price, the merchants intentionally adulterate low-priced, low-quality edible oil with sesame oil for economic gains without considering consumer health. The present study focused on developing rapid, cost-effective, and straightforward methods for the detection of adulteration of peanut oil with a dual emphasis on facilitating on-site detection as well as enabling laboratory in-house sample analysis. Pure sesame and peanut oil samples were prepared at the laboratory by the expeller method. Using UV-VIS Spectrophotometric analyses, two approaches were established in the first stage of the investigation. For the in-laboratory sample analysis, the absorption spectra of adulterated samples in the UV range were obtained and compared with those of pure sesame and peanut oil. A significant variation in both the highest absorbance level and the corresponding wavelength was observed once the adulteration level reached 50%, enabling detection within the adulteration range of 50% to 100%. To detect adulteration levels between 0% and 50%, the absorbance of the chromogenic complex resulting from the reaction between sesame oil and ethanolic furfural solution was utilized in developing a spectrophotometric analysis. Absorbances recorded at 520 nm for each adulteration exhibited a strong correlation with the sesame oil percentage allowing for detection within the adulteration range spanning 0% to 50%. The latter part of the study focused one stablishing a simple chromogenic test for on-site sample analysis to detect total adulteration level. Hence two chromogenic tests were developed using acidic permanganate and acidic dichromate solutions by availing the higher antioxidant activity of sesame oil.

Utilizing medicinal food knowledge of Sri Lankan traditional medicine for Allopathic medical care

2024-07-30

Sri Lankan traditional medical system comprises many medicinal foods used to manage diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and hypertension. Utilization of evidence-based knowledge of these foods in Western medical care needs acceptance of these medicinal foods by Western doctors. This survey was conducted as a descriptive cross-sectional knowledge, attitude, and practice of medicinal foods on MBBS-qualified doctors. The sample of 713 doctors was selected using a multistage cluster sampling technique, and data were collected using a validated, self-administered, structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Software for Social Sciences – SPSS (version 21). The results revealed that the most doctors did not have satisfactory knowledge (SK) of these medicinal foods, positive attitudes (PA) towards prescribing them in Western practice, and good practice (GP) of prescription them for their patients. Social media and university education were the most prominent modes of acquiring medicinal food knowledge by doctors. Significantly (p< 0.05) different SK, PA, and GP levels of medicinal foods were observed in doctors of different ethnic and religious groups. Rural area exposure and rural school education showed significantly (p< 0.05) higher SK, PA, and GP levels. Doctors with satisfactory knowledge were more likely (OR 34;95%CI) to prescribe medicinal foods than those with poor knowledge. It was concluded that, any attempt to utilize the evidence-based knowledge of medicinal foods of traditional medicine in Western practice should focus first on improving the medicinal food knowledge of Western doctors. The development of an e-module on medicinal foods accessible via mobile phones and the inclusion of a short module on medicinal foods into medical student’s curriculum are recommended.

A cross-sectional study on etiopathology and clinical findings of Mulangaal vaadham among the inward patients in Siddha Teaching Hospital, Kaithady, Jaffna

2024-07-30

Mulangaal vaadham (Knee Osteoarthritis) is one of the Vaadha disease. Pain, swelling and stiffness in knee joint are the important clinical features of this disease. This research was aimed to study about etiopathology and clinical findings of Mulangaal vaadham among the inward patients in Siddha Teaching Hospital, Kaithady, Jaffna. This was a hospital-based Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study. It was conducted among the thirty inward patients who were diagnosed with Mulangaal vaadham by Siddha physicians in Siddha Teaching Hospital, Kaithady, Jaffna. Data were collected by using Interviewer structured Questionnaire. Examination was done and recorded in the case record sheet. Collected data were processed and analyzed by using MS Excel. According to the study, 97% of the patients were above the age 50 and 77% of them were females. Obese and overweight were the causes of Mulangaal vaadham in 67% of the patients; prolonged standing and excessive walking were in 37% of the patients. Based on the results, 100% of the patients had pain in the knee joint. Joint stiffness and difficulty in walking were present in 87% of the patients. Identified signs were crepitus in 100% of the patients, tenderness in 83% of the patients, swelling and heat in 73% of the patients. Prolonged standing and walking increase the pain in all the patients. Cold climates and foods like bitter-gourd, pumpkin, plantain and long beans aggravates pain in 83% of patients. Vaadha-Pitta naadi was predominant in 77% of patients in morning and 93% in the afternoon and evening. Therefore, these findings show that Mulangaal vaadham may be caused due to vitiated Vaadham which is produced by Thaathu sheenam (Degenerative changes in bones of knee joint). However, similar studies should be conducted with higher number of the patients in future to make a firm conclusion.

Dream analysis in relation to Prakrithi and diseases: A study at National Ayurveda Teaching Hospital, Borella

2024-07-30

This study explores the relationship between dreams, individual constitution (Prakrithi), and disease manifestation within the Ayurvedic framework. Dreams were examined as potential diagnostic tools in Ayurveda, with a focus on understanding how dream content correlates with Prakrithi and disease types. Therefore, this study was conducted over six months at the National Ayurveda Teaching Hospital, with 210 volunteer participants selected using a stratified sampling method. Data were collected through selfquestionnaire forms and analyzed using a mixedmethod approach, combining qualitative and quantitative techniques. Demographic analysis revealed a predominantly female sample, with the highest frequency observed in the 18-27 age group. Pitta-Kapha prakrithi was most prevalent among participants, with Pitta dosha being the predominant dosha. Most participants reported infrequent dreaming, with a minority experiencing dreams close to waking up. Nearly half of the participants reported dreaming while suffering from a disease, predominantly respiratory system-related diseases. The study did not find a significant correlation between dream frequency, disease type, and Prakrithi. However, it acknowledges the influence of factors such as life satisfaction, attitudes, and emotions on dream patterns and health outcomes. Further research is needed to explore the complex interplay between individual constitution, dream content, and disease manifestation within Ayurveda. While this study provides valuable insights into the role of dreams in Ayurvedic diagnosis and treatment, additional research is necessary to deepen understanding in this area. By considering broader factors beyond Ayurvedic principles, future studies can elucidate the comprehend relationship between dreams, health, and individual constitution.

Efficacy of Shatavari gopakanyadi decoction in management of Polon visha (Viper envenomation): A conceptual review

2024-07-30

Polon visha (viper envenomation) is an important area of focus in the traditional Sarpa visha vedakama (snake-venom treatment system) of Sri Lankan indigenous medicine. Polon kulaya according to Sri Lankan indigenous medicine comprises of many varieties of vipers. Polon kulaya of Sri Lankan indigenous medicine can be correlated to Mandalika type of snakes mentioned in Ayurveda and also to Viperidae family of snakes of modern science. Shatavari gopakanyadi decoction is a unique Kashaya drug of Sri Lankan indigenous medicine, primarily indicated in the management of Raktapitta and Raktapradara; yet to date any published research work about this particular decoction or its utility in treatment of viper envenomation, is unavailable. The objective of this review research was to conceptually validate the efficacy of Shatavari gopakanyadi kashaya in the management of Polon visha envenomation. For this purpose; principal manuscripts of Sri Lankan indigenous medicine, key compendiums of Ayurveda, relevant textbooks of modern science and published research articles were extensively reviewed and analyzed. The antagonisms of the overall pharmacological actions of Shatavari gopakanyadi kashaya against Dosha dushya tatwa of Polon visha envenomation were highlighted. Shatavari gopakanyadi kashaya possess Pitta shamaka, Rakta shamaka, Rakta stambhana, Vishaghna and Vrimhana karma as primary pharmacological actions; which indeed are directly antagonistic to the pathophysiology and Dosha dushya tatwa of Polon visha envenomation. The accessory pharmacological actions of Shatavari gopakanyadi kashaya are Daha prashamana, Varnya, Trishna nigrahana, Angamarda prashamana and Jwarahara. These actions are also beneficial in the treatment of Polon visha envenomation according to case specific suitability and oppose its clinical features. In a Nutshell, thus the efficacy of Shatavari gopakanyadi decoction in management of Polon visha (viper envenomation) is conceptually validated conclusively as per fundamentals of Ayurveda and Sri Lankan indigenous medicine.

Bridging traditional knowledge and usage of Anupana for "Gopalu guliya": Review on Traditional Polyherbal Formulation

2024-07-30

Sri Lanka has a distinctive system of traditional medicine, which has a considerable impact on the cultural and medical history of the island. The Gopalu guliya is one of the most effective traditional formulations. It has been used in many disease conditions with different Anupana (Drug delivery vehicles) in Sri Lankan traditional medicine (SLTM), but now it is rare. The objectives of the study are to explore the traditional knowledge of Gopalu guliya, and Xylocarpus rumphii (Kostel.) Mabb (Konthalan) and their uses in various disease conditions, to examine drug delivery approaches and their impact on medicinal efficacy, and to emphasize the importance of conserving X. rumphii. The study is based on 4 original texts and 13 previously published journal articles from databases including Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and Lens.Org using search terms “Xylocarpus rumphii” from 2010 to 2023. This article includes the formulations, therapeutic applications, and drug delivery approaches of Gopalu guliya in Sri Lankan Ayurveda Pharmacopoeia, Desheeya Guli Kalka Sagaraya, Visha Veda Muthu hara, and Aushadeeya Shaka Sangrahaya. X. rumphii, the most weighted ingredient of Gopalu guliya, is the primary contributor to its distinguishing characteristics. The ethnomedicinal properties of Gopalu guliya and X. rumphii are also discussed, highlighting their significance. The Red Data Book (2022) lists X. rumphii, highlighting its importance in conservation. The study highlights the propagation methods of X. rumphii, urging for conservative measures, research, and collaborative initiatives to protect these valuable resources and ensure sustainable healthcare with traditional polyherbal formulation Gopalu guliya.

Management of Charmakeela with Agnikarma and Kshara karma: A case report

2024-07-30

Agnikarma (therapeutic burn/cauterization) and Kshara are unique treatment modalities mentioned in Ayurveda under surgical methods. Acharya Susrutha has given a detailed description of Agnikarma. Agnikarma and Kshara show significant importance in Shalya tantra because of the nonoccurrence of diseases that are treated by Agnikarma. Charmakeela (warts) is a disease mentioned under Kshudra roga in the Ayurveda system and has various treatment principles including administration of Aushadha internally and external procedures like Raktamokshana, Ksharakarma, and Agnikarma. These treatment methods are minimal invasive procedures which has minimal scar formation, non-recurrence, and are found to be more beneficial in treating warts. This single case study is carried out for a 15-year-old patient who visited to Shalya clinic of Ayurveda National Hospital, Sri Lanka with multiple warts presented below the dorsal surface of left elbow joint for 06 months. He was treated with Agnikarma followed by application of Apamarga theekshna kshara. Post-operative dressing was done with Velmi churna. His wounds healed within 15 days with minimal scar. Through this case study it can be determined that Agnikarma combined with Kshara application is an effective treatment for the management of Charmakeela (warts).

Clinical effectiveness of an Unani regimen in the management of Hasat-e-Mirrarah (cholelithiasis): A case report

2024-07-30

Hasat-e-Mirrarah (Cholelithiasis) is a common problem with a prevalence rate of 3.2% to 15.6% has been reported from Asia. This single case study aimed to assess the efficacy of Unani compound formulations along with diet therapy in the management of Hasat-e-Mirrarah. A 34-year-old male patient visited the private clinic on 30.04.2023 with a complaint of pain in the right-side upper abdomen for 1 month. In addition to pain, he had nausea, vomiting, abdominal irritation, and indigestion. The Ultra Sound Scan of the whole abdomen confirmed that there was a fatty liver and contained multiple gall bladder calculi (the largest one 8mm). The patient was treated with Ilaj bil Dawa (Pharmaco therapy) and Ilaj bil Ghiza (Diet therapy) treatments mentioned in the Unani Medicine. Unani regimen comprised of three formulations Qurs-eKushta-e Hajrul Yahood two pills twice daily, Majoon-e-Dabeedul Ward five grams twice daily, and Ithrifal-e-Sagheer five grams twice daily were prescribed orally after meals for three months. Further, he was advised about diet. The patient's vitals remained stable during observation and treatment, and symptoms were improved. Post-treatment Ultra Sound Scan of the whole abdomen reported as mentioned that no stone was seen in the gall bladder. It was also observed that there were no adverse drug reactions during the treatment period. This case report documented the successful medical treatment for Hasat-e Mirrarah through Unani Medicine. It concluded that the Unani regimen was effective and safe in managing Hasat-e-Mirrarah.