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INDEX – GJRMI - Volume 7, Issue 2, February 2018 INDIGENOUS MEDICINE Ayurveda – Dravya Guna – Review AN INSIGHT IN TO THE ABSOLUTE BOTANICAL SOURCES OF VARNYA AND KESHYA DRAVYAS IN DHANVANTARI NIGHANTU Karnam Chandrashekhar*
COVER PAGE PHOTOGRAPHY: DR. HARI VENKATESH K R, PLANT ID – TENDER LEAVES OF MESUA FERREA L* OF THE FAMILY C ALOPHYLLACEAE PLACE – KOPPA, CHIKKAMAGALUR DISTRICT, KARNATAKA, I NDIA *BOTANICAL NAME VALIDATED FROM www.theplantlist.org AS ON 28/02/2018
13–25
Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 7, Issue 2 | February 2018 | 13–26 ISSN 2277-4289│ www.gjrmi.com │International, Peer reviewed, Open access, Monthly online Journal
Review Article AN INSIGHT IN TO THE ABSOLUTE BOTANICAL SOURCES OF VARNYA AND KESHYA DRAVYAS IN DHANVANTARI NIGHANTU Karnam Chandrashekhar1* 1Professor,
P.G. department of Dravyaguna, V.Y.D.S.Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Khurja,U.P, India *Corresponding Author: E-mail: dkarnam@yahoomail.com Received: 10/01/2018; Revised: 15/02/2018; Accepted: 28/02/2018
ABSTRACT The main aim of cosmetics is to enhance the beauty without producing any sort of adverse reactions. There is a considerable rise in the number of the grievance from the people who use the cosmetics, especially those prepared from the synthetic drugs. But, it also holds true for the herbal cosmetic products that contain few minerals not being subjected to the right procedure of purification. All the reactions might not be dangerous, but, sometimes pose a lot of stress. However, healthy may be the skin and hair, people won`t stay cool until and unless they make them up attractive and beautiful. Considering the side effects, people gradually bringing up some sort of transformation in their thought process and going towards absolute herbal cosmetic products. Therefore, it is the high time to contemplate on the drugs derived from the botanical source. Dhanvantari nighantu, being one of the oldest lexicons of Ayurveda, encompasses 373 drugs that have different origins such as plants, mineral and animal products. The present review is an earnest attempt to report the absolute botanical sources useful for the promotion of the complexion and beneficial to the hair. KEY WORDS: Keshya, Varnya, Dhanvantari nighantu, Botanical source, Botanicals
Cite this article: Karnam Chandrashekhar (2018), AN INSIGHT IN TO THE ABSOLUTE BOTANICAL SOURCES OF VARNYA AND KESHYA DRAVYAS IN DHANVANTARI NIGHANTU, Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med., Volume 7 (2): 13–26
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INTRODUCTION The word cosmetics is defined as “substance of diverse origin, scientifically compounded and used to cleanse, allay skin troubles, cover up imperfections and beautify” (Patkar,KB., 2008). While, the drug and cosmetic act defines cosmetics as articles intended to be rubbed, poured, sprinkled or sprayed on into otherwise applied to the human body or any part thereof for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness (Hazra J & Panda AK, 2013). Thus, Cosmetic products, by and large, mainly work towards the skin care, hair care, oral care and nail care. Among all the bodily parts, hair and skin are the core components of the cosmetics. Beauty of the external appearance is mainly dependent on the well being of skin and hair. People of modern age especially the women have become more beauty conscious. There is an evidence of highly advanced idea of skin and hair care is operating in the society. They put lot of efforts to look beautiful and attractive. In doing so, they sometimes end up with adverse reactions which leave a cosmetic stigma for their life time. It is quite common with those cosmetic products that contain synthetic chemicals as their ingredients. Hence, there is a common belief that chemical based cosmetics are harmful to the skin and increased awareness among the consumers for herbal products triggered the demand for products and natural extract in the cosmetic preparations (Kumar, S. et al., 2012). The concept of herbal cosmetics is not a new arrival. Its antecedence dates back to the Vedic literature wherein, for instance, the herbs like Bhringaraja (Eclipta prostrata (L.) L.), Indravaruni (Citrullus colocynthis (L.) Schrad.) and Haridra (Curcuma longa L.) are recommended in treatment of premature graying of hair (Shastry, JLN, 2008). Ayurveda- being the upaveda (Secondary knowledge) of Atharvaveda (the fouth veda, knowledge store house of atharvanas), incorporates numerous drugs and the formulations for the promotion of complexion and hair care. Acharya Charaka has mentioned Varnya gana (class of complexion promoter) comprising of ten drugs (Pandey,
GS.1994). Besides, he described various formulations including lepa (Ointment/Cream), (Pandey.GS, 1994) and taila (Oil) that work well for the hair and skin health (Pandey, GS.1994), Similarly, acharya Sushruta enumerated the drugs for the skin and hair care. Being a surgeon by profession, he tried many drugs in cosmetic surgery especially in nasal reconstruction. After the skin is properly adjusted in the procedure of rhinoplasty, he recommends a powder of liquorice, red sandalwood and berbery plant to be sprinkledand finally covered with cotton and clean sesame oil should be constantly applied (Saraf, S. 2006). This would lead to the proper healing and impart flawless skin. .Acharya Vagbhata described the use of Nimba taila (Neem seed oil) through nasya karma (Nasal administration) for the treatment of premature graying of hair and hair fall (Paradakara, HSS.1982). Earlier to this period, nighantus (lexicons) dealing drugs, with medical doctrines, treatment, etc., are not commonly found. The majority of literature on nighantu (lexicon) were produced during medieval period (8th to 15th century A.D) (Lucas, DS. 2009). The lexicons written during this period are the major source of information on drugs even today. Among them, a lexicon that goes by a name Dhanvantari nighantu, as stated by acharya P.V. Sharma, was once a very popular authority among the scholars which is evident by the fact that it has been mentioned by several commentators like Hemadri, Arunadatta and Kshiraswamy etc (Sharma, PV. 2008). It is believed to be written by Acharya Mahendrabhogika around 10–13 century A.D. Since, Dhanvantari nighantu finds its place in the history of Ayurveda as one of the popular lexicons, it has been frequently consulted, valued and admired. Its contents are distributed in 7 classes. All together comprise of 373 drugs which include plants, minerals and animal products. On keen observation, it is evident that 334 botanical sources excluding the varjya visha dravyas (prohibited poisonous drugs) mentioned in the mishrakadi varga (class of mixed classification) have entered the pages of this lexicon. This huge number gives rise to the
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curiosity for searching the varnya (complexion promoter) and keshya (beneficial to hair) dravyas (drugs).Thus, this review is an earnest attempt to find out the exact number of absolute botanical sources that are useful for varnya (complexion promotion) and keshya (beneficial to hair) karma (activity) MATERIALS AND METHODS:
Dhanvantari nighantu available in print form, being edited by Acharya Priyavrat Sharma and translated by Dr.Guruprasad Sharma, published by Chaukhambha orientalia, reprint edition: 2008 was considered for the present review.
Inclusion criteria
Plants attributed with any of the activities such as Varnya (complexion promoter) / Kantidam (skin toner) / Varnakrit (complexion booster) / Tejoprada (skin brightening agent) /Kantiprada (skin toner) / Kayakantikrit (brings about fairness) / Varnavidhayani (complexion enhancer) / Varnaprasadani (cleanser) / Dehavarnavidayani (skin glowing agent) / Teja:kantiprada (skin whitening) / Tvachya (beneficial to skin) / Kantiprasadani / Kantikara (skin toner) / Sumandanam (tan removal). Plants attributed with any one of the activities such as keshyam (beneficial to hair) / Keshavardhana (hair growth promoter) / Kesha vruddhikara (hair growth enhancer) / Kesharanjana (hair dye) / Keshadam (hair tonic) / Palitanashini (curative of premature greying) / Kashyamuttamam (best drug beneficial to hair).
Exclusion criteria:
Plants whose synonyms depict the varnya (complexion promoter) or keshya (beneficial to hair) karma (activity).
Formulations whose cumulative effect is beneficial to skin and hair in any way.
Kusthaghna (curative of dermatosis), kandughna (anti pruritic), daurgandhyahara (deodorant) and svedapanayana (anti perspirant) dravyas (drugs).
Rasaushadhis (minerals and metals).
Kshara (alkalies) / Lavana (salt).
Varjya visha dravyas (prohibited poisonous drugs) mentioned in Mishrakadi varga (mixed classification).
Sidhu, Asava (spirituous prepared from any single drug
liquor)
Screening of the data:
Repeatedly mentioned drugs in more than one class were counted only once even though the useful part is different in different contexts.
Dravya vishesha (varieties / species / types) was considered along with the main dravya (drug) and counted as one.
Plant product and its different forms were counted as one.
OBSERVATIONS AND RESULTS Distribution of botanical sources in different classes
Botanicals such as root, whole plant, fruit, bark, fixed oil, flower and leaf
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Table 1: Botanical sources in Guduchyadi varga S.No Contents Plants 1 Plants along with their species/varieties/types 2 Total
Number 64 31 95
Table 2: Botanical sources in Shatapushpadi varga S.No 1 2 3 4 5
Contents Plants Plants and its varieties/species/types Plant and its parts Plant products and their different forms Preparations of plant Total
Number 23 04 03 02 02 34
Table 3: Botanical sources in Chandanadi varga S.No 1 2 3 4 5
Contents Plants Plants and its varieties/species/types Plants and their products Plant products only Lichen Total
Number 36 05 03 02 01 47
Table 4: Botanical sources in Karaveeradi varga S.No 1 2 3 4
Contents Plants Plant and their varieties Plant with its product Plant and its parts Total
Number 40 10 01 01 52
Table 5: Botanical sources in Amradi varga S.No Contents Plants 1 Plant and their varieties 2 Total
Number 49 12 61
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Table 6: Botanical sources in Suvarnadi varga S.No 1 2 3 4 5
Contents Dhanya Dhanyavishesha Plant with its varieties/type/species Plant formulation Plant Total
Number 17 06 01 01 01 26
Table 7: Botanical sources in Mishrakadi varga S.No Contents Plants 1 Total
Number 19 19
Table 8: Total botanical source mentioned in different classes S.no 01 02 03 04 05 06 07
Varga Guduchyadivarga Shatapushpadivarga Chandanadivarga Karaveeradivarga Amradivarga Suvarnadivarga Mishrakadivarga Total
Number of botanicals 95 34 47 52 61 26 19 334
Table 9: Distribution of botanical source of varnya dravyas in different families S.NO 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17
Family Acanthaceae Anacardaceae Bursaraceae Caesalpiniaceae Cyperaceae Dipterocarpaceae Fabaceae Iridiaceae Liliaceae Malphigiaceae Malvaceae Meliaceae Miomosaceae Rutaceae Solanaceae Valarianaceae Zingiberaceae Total
Number 01 01 01 01 02 02 03 01 01 01 01 01 01 01 02 02 01 23
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Table 10: Botanical sources and Sanskrit terms referring to varnya karma S,no 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23
Sanskrit name Jalamusta Haridra Ashwagandha Prasarani Kumkuma Jatamansi Gandhamamsi Pariplava Guggulu Chakramarda Dhattura Kakajangha Rasona Mamsarohini Shirisha Shimshipa Kapila Sarja Shala Bijapuraka Amra Atimukta Chanaka
Actions Kantidam Deha varna vidayini Kantiprada Teja: kantiprada Kayakantikrit Tvachya, Kantiprasadani Varnya Kantipradam Varnya: Kantikara Kantikari Varnya Varnakara Varnya Varnya Varnya Varnya Varnya Varnya Varnakaram Varnakara Sumandanam Tejoprada
Varga Guduchyadivarga Guduchyadivarga Guduchyadivarga Guduchyadivarga Chandanadivarga Chandanadivarga Chandanadivarga Chandanadivarga Chandanadivarga Karaveeradivarga Karaveeradivarga Karaveeradivarga Karaveeradivarga Karaveeradivarga Amradivarga Amradivarga Amradivarga Amradivarga Amradivarga Amradivarga Amradivarga Amradivarga Suvarnadivarga
Sloka 43 55 263 278 12 44 46 54 117 05 07 21 62 85–86 103 112 112 114 114 22 03 141–142 90
Table 11: Botanical source, habit and botanicals of Varnya dravyas S,no 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17
Sanskrit name Jalamusta Haridra Ashwagandha Prasarani Kumkuma Jatamansi Gandhamamsi Pariplava Guggulu Chakramarda Dhattura Kakajangha Rasona Mamsarohini Shirisha Shimshipa Kapila
Botanical name Cyperus esculentus L. Curcuma longa L. Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal Sida cordata (Burm.f.) Borss.Waalk. Crocus sativus L. Nardostachys jatamansi (D.Don.) DC Selinum wallichianum (DC.) Raizada & H.O Cyperus platystylis R.Br Commiphora mukul (Hook. ex stocks) Engl. Senna tora (L.) Roxb Datura stramonium L. Peristrophe bicalyculata (Retz) Nees Allium sativum L. Soymida febrifuga (Roxb.)A.Juss Albizia lebbeck (L.) Benth Dalbergia sissoo DC. Dalbergia latifolia Roxb
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Habit Herb Herb Herb Herb Herb Herb Herb Herb Shrub Herb Herb Herb Herb Tree Tree Tree Tree
Botanicals Tuber Rhizome Root Root Stigma Root stock Root stock Tuber Resin Seed Leaf Whole plant Bulb Fruit Seed Heartwood Heart wood
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18 19 20 21 22 23
Sarja Shala Bijapuraka Amra Atimukta Chanaka
Vateria indica L. Shorea robusta Gaertn Citrus medica L. Mangifera indica L. Hiptage benghalensis (L.) Kurz Cicer arietinum L.
Tree Tree Tree Tree Climber Herb
Resin Resin Fruit Fruit Leaf Fruit
Table 12: Botanicals and number of botanical source of Varnya dravyas S.No 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12
Botanicals Tuber Rhizome Root Stigma Root stock Resin Seed Heartwood Leaf Whole plant Bulb Fruit
No of botanical source 02 01 02 01 02 03 02 02 02 01 01 04
Table 13: Habit and number of botanical source of different Varnya dravyas S.No 01 02 03 04
Habit Herb Shrub Climber Tree
No. of botanical source 13 01 01 08
Table 14: Distribution of botanical source of Keshya dravyas in different families S.NO 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14
Family Acanthaceae Anacardiaceae Aracaceae Boraginaceae Combretaceae Cucurbitaceae Ebenaceae Fabaceae Juglandaceae Menispermaceae Nymphaceae Pedaliaceae Sapotaceae Velarianaceae Total
Number 01 01 01 01 01 03 01 01 01 02 01 01 01 02 18
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Table 15: Botanical sources and Sanskrit terms referring to keshya karma S.no 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
Sanskrit name Kanda Guduchi Balaka Bibhitaki Neelini Kurantaka Gandhamamsi Kakadani Saugandhika Tila Atimuktaka Akshodaka Narikela Madhooka Trapusa Urvaru Kushmanda Shleshmataka Priyala
Sanskrit terms Palitanashini Keshyam Keshavriddhikara Keshya Keshya Keshyamuttamam Keshya Keshadam Keshya Keshya Keshya Keshya Keshya Keshya Keshya Keshya Keshya Keshya
Varga Guduchyadivarga Guduchyadivarga Guduchyadivarga Guduchyadivarga Guduchyadivarga Chandanadivarga Karaveeradivarga Karaveeradivarga Suvarnadivarga Suvarnadivarga Suvarnadivarga Suvarnadivarga Suvarnadivarga Suvarnadivarga Suvarnadivarga Suvarnadivarga Suvarnadivarga Suvarnadivarga
Sloka 08 47 210 228 269 46 25 133 111 132–133 132–133 132–133 132–133 132–133 132–133 132–133 132–133 132–133
Table 16: Botanical source, habit and botanicals of Keshya dravyas S,no 01 02 03 04 05 06
Sanskrit name Kanda Guduchi Balaka Bibhitaki Neelini Kurantaka Gandhamamsi
07 08 09 10 11 12 13
Kakadani Saugandhika Tila Atimuktaka Akshodaka Narikela Madhooka
14 15 16 17 18
Trapusa Urvaru Kushmanda Shlesmataka Priyala
Botanical name Tinospora sinensis (Lour.) Merr.Valeriana hardwickii Wall Terminalia bellirica (Gaertn.) Roxb. Indigofera tinctoria L. Barleria prionitis L. Selinum wallichianum (DC.) Raizada & H.O Saxena Anamirta cocculus (L.)Wight &Arn Nymphaea nouchali Burm.f Sesamum indicum L. Diospyros malabarica (Desr.) Kostel. Juglans regia L. Cocos nucifera L. Madhuca longifolia var.latifolia (Roxb.) A.Chev Cucumis sativus L. Cucumis melo L. Benincasa hispida (Thunb.) Cogn. Cordia dichotoma G. Forst. Buchanania cochinchinensis (Lour.) M.R.Almedia
Habit Climber Herb Tree Herb Herb Herb
Botanicals Stem Root Seed oil Whole plant Leaf Root stock
Herb Hydrophyte Herb Tree Tree Tree Tree
Seeds Flower Seed oil Seed oil Fruit kernel oil Fruit kernel oil Seed oil
Climber Climber Climber Tree Tree
Seed oil Seed oil Seed oil Seed oil Seed oil
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Table 17: Botanicals and number of botanical source of keshya dravyas S.No 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09
Botanicals Stem Root Seed oil Whole plant Root stock Leaf Seed Fruit kernel oil Flower
No of botanical source 01 01 09 01 01 01 01 02 01
Table 18: Habit and number of botanical source of different Keshya dravyas S. No 01 02 03 04 05
Habit Herb Shrub Climber Tree Hydrophyte
No .of botanical source 06 00 04 07 01
Table 19: Total botanical sources for Varnya karma and Keshya karma S.No Karma Varnya Karma 01 Keshya 02
DISCUSSION Dhanvantari nighantu, unlike other vedic lexicons, describes the properties and actions of the drugs along with their synonyms. The introductory verses hint at the original work known as Dravyavali which contains only the synonyms of the drugs. Later on, the properties and actions were added to it and presented as Dhanvantari nighantu. Thus, the existing lexicon is the updated version of Dravyavali. The contents have been arranged systematically in to seven groups or classes. All together comprise of 373 drugs of different origin. Among which, 334 have botanical sources excluding varjya visha dravyas (prohibited poisonous drugs) mentioned in the Mishrakadi varga (class of mixed classification) (Table-8).
Number of botanical sources 23 18
The true botanical sources mentioned for varnya (complexion promotion) and keshya (beneficial to hair) karma (action) are 41(Table -19).The botanical names of the plants were updated according to the plant list (www.theplantlist.org) (Table-11) (Table -16) Varnya dravyas (complexion promoters) A total of 23 botanical sources for varnya dravyas (complexion promoters) (Table -19) are found in Dhanvantari nighantu which are distributed among the 17 families (Table-9) of angiosperms. Interestingly, highest number of botanical source belongs to the family Fabaceae (Table-9). On analyzing the habit of these botanical sources, it is evident that 13 of them are herbs (Table -13) and fruit is the highest
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type of botanical used for varnya karma (Table12). Classes Guduchyadi varga- It includes 95 botanical sources (Table-1) among which 4 plants viz.. Jalamusta, (Cyperus esculentus L.) ,Haridra (Curcuma longa L.), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal) and Prasarani (Sida cordata (Burm.f.)Borss.Waalk.) act as kantidam (skin toner), Dehavarna vidayani (Skin glowing agent) kanti prada (skin toner) and Teja: kantiprada (Skin whitening agent) respectively (Table -10). Shatapushpadi varga- It accommodates 34 botanical sources of different forms (Table-2). Surprisingly, not even a single botanical source is indicated for the varnya (complexion promotion) (Table-10). Chandanadi varga- It predominantly contains the aromatic drugs. Among the 47 botanical sources (Table-3), 5 plants viz Kumkuma (Crocus sativus L.), Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi (D.Don) DC., Gandhamansi (Selinum wallichianum (DC.) Raizada & H.O) Pariplava (Cyperus platystylis R.Br) and Guggulu (Commiphora mukul (Hook.ex Stocks) Engl) are found to be effective for skin care. They act as Kayakantikrit (Skin toner), Twachya as well as Kantiprasadani (beneficial to skin and skin toner), Varnya (complexion promoter) Kanti prada (skin toner) and Varnya (complexion promoter) respectively (Table -10). In addition, a plant Kaleyaka which is considered as Agaru vishesha is called by a synonym Varna prasadani. But, its varnya karma is not specified in the list of its actions Karaveeradi varga- A total of 52 botanical sources find their place in this class (Table-4). Of which, 5 plants viz Chakramarda (Senna tora (L) Roxb.), Dhattura (Datura stramonium L.), Kakajangha (Peristrophe bicalyculata (Retz) Nees), Rasona (Allium sativum L.) and Mamsarohini (Soymida febrifuga (Roxb.) A. Juss) act as kantikara (Skin toner), kantikari (skin toner), varnya (complexion promoter),
Varnakara (complexion promoter) and varnya (complexion promoter) respectively (Table-10). A plant Grusthi is called by the synonym Kanti: .But its complexion promotion action is not cited in the list of actions alluded to it. Amradi varga- Among the 61 botanical sources (Table-5), 8 have been referred to varnya karma. Amra (Mangifera indica L.), and Bijapuraka (Citrus medica L.) act as varnakara (Complexion promoter). Shirisha, (Albizia lebbeck (L.) Benth). Shimshipa (Dalbergia sissoo DC), Kapila (Dalbergia latifolia Roxb), Sarja (Vateria indica L), and Shala (Shorea robusta Gaertn) act as varnya (complexion promoter).While Atimukta (Hiptage benghalensis (L.) act as sumandanam (Tan removal agent) (Table -10). Suvarnadi varga-It includes 26 botanical sources (Table-6) of which Chanaka (Cicer arietinum L.) is considered as a Tejoprada (Skin whitening agent) (Table -10). Mishrakadi varga-it includes 19 botanical sources that are not mentioned in the earlier classes (Table-7). None of them have been considered as varnya dravya (Table-10) Keshya dravyas (beneficial to hair) A total of 18 keshya dravyas (Drugs beneficial to hair) (Table-19) have been traced from the 334 botanical sources mentioned in different classes of Dhanvantari nighantu (Table-8). These botanical sources have been distributed among the 14 families of angiosperms (Table-14). The highest number of botanical source belongs to the family Cucurbitaceae (Table-14). Among the 18 botanical sources, most of them (7) are trees (Table-18). and fixed oil is the highest type of botanical used (Table-17) for keshya karma (action beneficial to hair). Guduchyadi varga- It includes 95 botanical sources (Table-1), of which, 5 plants viz Kanda guduchi (Tinospora sinensis (Lour.) Merr act as palita nashini (curative of premature graying), Bibhitaka (Terminalia bellirica (Gaertn) Roxb).,
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Kesha vriddhikara (hair growth promoter). While, Balaka (Valeriana harwickii Wall), Neelini (Indigofera tinctoria L.) and Kurantaka (Barleria prionitis L.), acts as Keshya (beneficial to hair). (Table -15). It is interesting to note that a plant by name Varani [Dantivishesha whose botanical identity is not clear] is described with a synonym Kesharuha. (hair growth promoter) But, its Keshya (beneficial to hair) activity is not described in the list of actions. Shatapushpadi varga- It accommodates 34 botanical sources of different forms (Table-2). Surprisingly, not even a single botanical source is indicated for the keshya (beneficial to hair) activity (Table-15). . Chandanadi varga- Among the 47 botanical sources (Table-3), Gandhamansi (Selinum wallichianum (DC.) Raizada & H.O Saxena) is praised as keshyam uttamam (best drug among beneficial to hair) (Table-15). Karaveeradi varga- A total of 52 botanical sources find their place (Table-4). Of which, 2 plants viz Kakadani (Anamirta cocculus (L.) Wight & Arn) acts as keshya (beneficial to hair) and Saugandhika (Nymphaea nouchali Burm.f) acts as keshadam (hair tonic). (Table-15) Surprisingly, the plant Bhringaraja (Eclipta prostrata`(L.) L.) has been appreciated for the keshya karma by the synonym kesharanjana (hair dye) only. Its list of actions does not contain keshya karma. Amradi varga- Among the 61 botanical sources (Table-5), none of the botanical sources described in this class act as keshya dravya (Table-15) Suvarnadi varga- It includes 26 botanical sources (Table-6). This class is a great source for keshya karma, all the botanicals are the fixed oil derived from 10 plants viz. Tila (Sesamum indicum L.) Atimuktaka (Diospyros malabarica (Desr.) Kostel), Akshodaka (Juglans regia L.), Narikela (Cocus nucifera L.), Madhooka (Madhuca longifolia var.latifolia (Roxb.) A.Chev) ,Trapusa, (Cucumis sativus L.) Urvaru
(Cucumis melo L.), Kushmanda (Benincasa hispida (Thunb.) Cogn.), Shleshmataka (Cordia dichotoma G.Forst.) and Priyala (Buchanania cochinchinensis (Lour.)M.R.Almedia) (Table15) . It is really very interesting to note that Bibhitaki taila (seed oil of Terminalia bellirica (Gaertn.) Roxb) has been mentioned twice in this context as keshya dravya. With this, Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica (Gaertn.) Roxb) has been mentioned thrice for keshya activity in this lexicon. Mishrakadi varga- it includes 19 botanical sources that are not mentioned in the earlier classes (Table-7). None of them have been considered as the source of keshya dravya. (Table-15). Controversial aspects: Kanda Guduchi-The true botanical identity of Kanda guduchi is disputed. Some consider it as Tinospora malabarica (Lam.) Hook.f & Thomson. While, others consider it as Tinospora sinensis (Lour) Merril. Infact, Tinospora sinensis (Lour) Merril.is the accepted name (Table-16) Balaka- Balaka is the synonym of Udichya. Few consider Udichya as Coleus veteveroioides K.C.Jacobs which is the synonym of an accepted name Plectranthus vettiveroides (Jacob) N.P Singh & B.D Sharma. It is a common inhabitant of South India. Since, the name Udichya signifies the northern part of India, acharya P.V, Sharma advises to consider Valeriana hardwickii Wall (Sharma,PV., 2006) as Udichya /Balaka which is effective for hair care. Kakadani- Dalhana, in his commentary hints at different plants such as Kakatinduka (Strychnos nux vomica L.), Kakajangha (Peristrophe bicalyculata Nees), Gunja (Abrus precatorius L.) and Kala (Caesalpinia sappan L.) as Kakadani in different contexts (P.V.Sharma, 2006). But, Dhanvanatari nighantu considers Kakadani as Kakamachi vishesha (a variety Solanum nigrum L.). Taking various factors in to consideration, Acharya P.V.sharma
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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 7, Issue 2 | February 2018 | 13–26
considered its botanical source as Anamirta cocculus W & A. (Sharma, PV., 2006). Saugandhika-This name referred to two plants in Ayurveda v iz, Rohisha (Shastry, JLN., 2008) and Nilotpala. Saugandhika in Dhanvantari nighantu refers to a plant whose virya (potency) is sheeta (cold). Rohisha possesses ushna (hot) virya (potency). Hence it is clear that Saugandhika is Nilotpala whose botanical source is Nymphaea nouchali Burm.f (Table16). Prasarani -Many of the Ayurvedic physicians believe that Prasarani as Paederia foetida L. But, in the real sense Prasarani refers to Sida cordata (Burm.f.) Borss.Waalk. For the reason, Prasarani finds its place along with different varieties of Bala (Sida cordifolia L.) in Dhanvantari nighantu. Moreover, it is called by a synonym Raja bala.Kaka jangha- Three plants have been considered as Kakajangha in Ayurveda viz Peristrophe bicalyculata (Retz.) Nees, Leea aequata L. and Vitex pendicularis Wall.ex Schauer. On the basis of description given by acharya P.V.sharmaji, it looks that the true source of Kakajangha as Peristrophe bicalyculata (Retz.)Nees, (Table-11) Atimukta -It is considered as a plant whose synonym is Karmuka and popular in Astanga hridaya for Raktapittahara activity (Sharma, PV., 2006). Considering the synonym Karmuka, Acharya P.V Sharma concludes it as Madhavi lata whose botanical source is Hiptage benghalensis (L.) Kurz (Table -16). Atimuktaka-Though it appears to be name of Atimukta, yet, it has a different botanical source known as, Diospyros malabarica (Desr.) Kostel. since Atimuktaka is considered as the synonym of Tinduka in Dhanvantari nighantu (Sharma,PV., 2008). Kaleyaka- The name Kaleyaka is given to more than 2 plants in Ayurveda. Some considered it as Malayadri chandana. While others regarded it as Daru haridra (Berberis aristata DC) or a
variety of Agaru even. Since, its other synonyms like laghu chandana and peeta varna (chandanadi varga:26) refer to the Malayadri chandana whose botanical name is Coscinium fenestratum (Goetgh) Colebr (Shastry, JLN.2008) Pariplava- This plant is also called as Paripela in the later lexicons. Acharya P.V.sharma cleared its controversy by considering it as Kaivarta musta whose botanical source is said to be Cyperus platystilis R.Br (Shastry, JLN.2010) In addition, the observation yielded the following important facts It appears that Bibhitaki taila (Seed oil of Terminalia bellirica (Gaertn.) Roxb.) has been highly appreciated for keshya karma Kaleyaka and Grusthi have the synonyms that depict varnya karma (complexion promotion).But, the action is not mentioned in the verses describing their properties Varani and Bhringaraja have been credited with the synonyms that depict keshya karma (beneficial to hair) But, the action is not mentioned in the verse describing their properties The plants of Fabaceae and Cucurbitaceae have been a great source for keshya karma and Varnya karma respectively Gandhamansi (Selinum wallichianum (DC.) Raizada & H.O Saxena) is the only botanical source that acts as varnya as well as uttama keshya dravya. CONCLUSION After analyzing all the botanical sources mentioned in Dhanvantari nighantu, it is evident that the concept of varnya (complexion promotion) and keshya (beneficial to hair) has been well developed. Various terminologies are used to refer these two actions. A total of 41 drugs of plant origin that includes 23 (6.88%) and 18 (5.38%) of botanical sources for varnya (complexion promotion) and keshya (beneficial
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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 7, Issue 2 | February 2018 | 13–26
to hair) dravyas (drugs) respectively, have entered the pages of Dhanvanatri nighantu. Though the number of botanical sources for these activities is less, yet, it accommodates few plants that are not being considered for the skin care and hair care in present herbal cosmetic products.
find new, but proven safe drugs for their skin and hair care. Varnya (complexion promoter) and Keshya (beneficial to hair) dravyas (drugs) reviewed in this article are the true botanical sources. They direct the scholars to come out with the new formulae to help the people who are beauty conscious.
Beauty lies less in the eyes of the beholder but more in the cosmetic products that are used these days. Glowing skin and shiny hair are the representatives of the beauty. Therefore, they need a proper care and monitoring. Every attempt in that direction is much appreciated. People of modern age, are in constant search to
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT I would like to thank Hon.Director Dr.Gopal dutt Sharma for the encouragement to conduct this study. I thank my wife Dr.M.K.Sampada shekhar for the support she extended during the study.
REFERENCES Hajra,J. & Panda, AK.(2013), Concept of beauty and ayurveda medicine. Journal of Clinical & Experimenta Dermatology Research. 4(178) [online] Available at: https://www.omicsonline.org/ [Accessed 8 April 2018]. Joshi,LS. & Pawar, HA. (2015), Herbal cosmetics and cosmeceuticals-an overview. Natural Products Chemistry& Research 3(170) [online] Available at: https://www.omicsnline.org/ [Accessed 8 April 2018] Kumar,S., Swarnakar,V., Sharma,S and,Badli, A. (2012), Herbal cosmetics: used for skin and hair. Inventi Rapid Cosmeceuticals 1.7.2012 [online] Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/ [Accessed 8 April 2018] Lucas,DS.(2009), An introduction to Nighantu of Ayurveda.Varanasi: Chaukhambha Sanskrit Sansthan, pp.19&32
Pandey, GS. (Ed.) (1994), Charaka samhita. Part.1.Varanasi: Chaukhambha Sanskrit sansthan, p. 50. p.51, p .61 p.87 Paradakara, HSS. (Ed) (2010), Asthanga hridaya. Varanasi: Chaukhamha orientalalia, p. 861 Patkar, KB. (2008), Herbal cosmetics in ancient India. Indian Journal of Plastic surgery. 41(S134-S137) [online] Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ [Accessed 8 April 2018] Saraf, S. (2006), Sushruta: rhinoplasty in 600 BC. The Internet Journal of Plastic Surgery (vol.3) [online] Available at: ispub.com/ [Accessed 9 April 2018] Sharma,PV.(Ed) (2008), Dhanvantari nighantu with Hindi translation by Sharma, GP.Varanasi: Chaukhambha orientalia, p. 205 & p.281 Sharma, PV. (2006), Dravyaguna vijnana. vol.5.Varanasi: Chaukhambha bharati academy, pp.66, p.110, pp116, pp118 pp.366
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Shastry, JLN. (2008), Dravyaguna vijnana.vol.2.Varanasi: Chaukhambha orientalia, pp.55, pp.294, pp.1308
Source of Support: NIL
Shastry, JLN. (2010) Illustrated Madanapala nighantu. Varanasi: Chaukhambha orientalia, pp.404
Conflict of Interest: None Declared
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