THE STUDY OF CRUDE DRUGS
BELONGING TO VARIOUS FAMILIES OF
MEDICINAL IMPORTANCE
Zingiberaceae
 Ginger
 Curcuma
1
GINGER:
Vernacular Name: Adrak
Biological Source: Ginger consists of either the
scraped or unscraped rhizomes of Zingiber
officinale belonging to family Zingiberaceae.
Parts Used: Rhizome
Chemical Constituents: Ginger contains about
0.25-3% of volatile oil, 5-8% resinous matter, 56%
starch and protein. Volatile oil contains a mixture
of more than 25 constituents containing
monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes. The pungent
taste of ginger is due to the presence of gingerol.
2
The pungency of gingerol is destroyed by
boiling in 2% solution of KOH. Zingerone, a
pungent compound also occurs in the
rhizome but possesses a sweet odor.
Shogaol is a component of oil but is not
present in fresh rhizomes, it is formed by
dehydration of gingerol.
Uses: Ginger is used as condiment.
Medicinally it is used as aromatic,
carminative, flavourant, stimulant and
stomachic. The oil of ginger is used as
mouthwashes and beverages (as flavoring
agent)
3
Z.officinale is acrid, thermogenic, laxative,
digestive, emollient, appetizer, stimulant,
rubefacient, aphrodisiac, expectorant, antihelmintic, carminative, anodyne, useful in
anorexia and inflammations. Ginger root
can relieve symptoms of motion sickness
due to gingerols and shoagols.
It is also useful in the treatment of following
conditions: dropsy, otalgia, cephalagia,
asthma, cough, colic, flatulance, anorexia,
cholera, nausea, vomiting, thrombosis and
elephantiasis.
4
Adverse effects and Interactions:
The findings that ginger is positive in E.coli
bacteria test for mutagenesis raises
concerns about its use in pregnant
women. It is a potent inhibitor of
thromboxane synthetase, there is a
possibility that ginger could increase the
risk of bleeding or bruising if given
concomitantly with anticoagulants or
platelet-inhibiting drugs.
5
Curcuma longa:
Vernacular Name: Haldi
Biological Source: Turmeric consists of fresh, dried
rhizomesof Curcuma longa, belonging to family
Zingiberaceae.
Chemical constituents: Turmeric contains about
5% curcumanoids as a coloring matter. The
curcumanoid contains curcumine-I, curcumine-II,
curcumine-III. Turmeric contains about 5% volatile
oil. Their volatile oil contains sesquiterpenes,
alcohol and ketone and monoterpene example,
zingiberone, turmerone, arturmerone, alcohol-ptolylmethyl, carbenol, cineole, borneole, etc. It
also contains arabinose, fructose, glucose and
starch grains.
6
Parts Used: Rhizomes and tubers
Uses: It is used as stomachic, carminative,
aromatic, antiperiodic, blood purifier and
stimulant. It is also an anti-arthritic, antiinflammatory, anti-lipidemic, carminative
and digestant and anti-fertility. It is also
used in menstrual pain, liver diseases and
to produce choleritic and chologogue
action. Turmeric is used in curry powders,
sauces and paper impregnated with its
tincture is used for the borate and boric
acid detection.
7
It is employed as coloring agent for
formulations like ointments and creams.
Ethanolic extract of curcuma longa shows
anti-ulcerogenic property. Rhizome extract
has anti-diabetic action. Curcuma is used
in conjunctivitis.
A recent study involving mice has shown
that turmeric slows the spread of breast
cancer in to lungs and other body parts.
Turmeric also enhances the effect of taxol
in reducing metastasis of breast cancer.
8
The rhizome is well-known for its anti-gastric
ulcer and cholagogic properties. It is
prescribed in the therapy of gastric and
duodenal ulcer, hepatitis, jaundice, pain in
the extrimities, boils and impetigo.It is also
used as a poultice for wounds.
9
Toxicology:
The clastogenic potential of Curcuma longa
in experimental rats in invivo conditions
has been evaluated. A single acute dose
treatment 500mg/kg body weight could not
significantly induce micronucleated
polychromatic erythrocytes but caused
considerably higher chromosomal
abberations.
10
Adverse reactions and Interactions:
Fetal effects are unknown, and use during
pregnancy, other than as food spice, is
probably best avoided. Prolonged use has
been associated with gastrointestinal upset
and may increase the risk of peptic ulcer.
Use in patients with biliary obstruction or
gallstones is contraindicated. There is a
potential for interaction with NSAIDs and
platelet–inhibiting drugs because of its effect
on prostaglandin synthesis.
11
HERBAL GLOSSARY
Pungent = sharp or biting, somewhat acrid
Condiment = A sauce, spice
Aromatic = A pleasant smelling and tasting
herb that stimulates the GI system, and
improves the taste of medicine and food.
Carminative = A preparation to relieve
flatulence and any resultant griping
12
Stimulant = A drug or other agents that
increases the activity of an organ or
system within a body
Stomachic = Name given to drugs that treat
stomach disorders
Acrid = pungent, producing an irritation
Thermogenic = producing heat
Laxative = A substance that is taken to
evacuate a bowel or soften stools
13
Digestive = pertaining to digestion, digestant
Emollient = Substances which have softening
and soothing effect upon the skin
Rubefacient = Irritation of the skin causes
congestion of the parts immediately below
the skin
Aphrodisiac = stimulates sexual excitement
and desire
Expectorant = Drugs assisting the removal of
secretions from the air passages
14
Anti-helmintic = Substances causing death
or expulsion of parasitic worms
Anodyne = Relieves or soothes pain
Anorexia = loss of appetite
Inflammation = Reaction of tissues to any
injury yielding redness, heat, pain and
swelling
15
Mutagenesis = The production of change, the
induction of genetic mutation
Antiperiodic = Prevents periodic recurrance
of symptoms, as in malaria
Choleretic = Increases the production of bile
by the liver
Chologogue = Substances which increase
the flow of bile by stimulating evacuation of
gall bladder
Tincture = An alcoholic or hydroalcolholic
solution preparedfrom animal or vegetable
drugsor from chemical substances
16
Anti diabetic = alleviates diabetes or the effects of
diabetes
Metastasis = The transfer of disease from one
organ or part to another not directly connected
with it
Impetigo = A contagious pyoderma caused by
direct innoculation of group A streptococci or
Staphylococcus aureus into superficial
cutaneous abrasions or compromised skin
Poultice = A soft, moist mass spread between
layers of muslin, linen, gauze or towels and
applied hot to a given area in order to create
moist local heat or counter irritation
Clastogenic = Giving rise to or inducing disruption
or breakages, as of chromosomes
17
Liliaceae
 Garlic
 Colchicum
 Aloe
18
Garlic
Vernacular Name: Lasan
Biological Source: Garlic consists of ripe bulbs of
Allium sativum, belonging to family Liliaceae.
Parts Used: Bulb, oil, leaves and seeds
Chemical Constituents: Garlic contains
carbohydrates, proteins, fats, mucilage, and
essential oil (volatile oil). The volatile oil is the
main active constituent. It contains allicin, allyl
propyl disulphide and alliin. Alliin is converted into
allicin by action of enzyme allinase. Ajoene is also
one of the important constituents of garlic formed
by self condensation of allicin.
19
Uses: The allicin and alliin are the potent
antibacterial ingredients in garlic. The
ajoene is an antithrombotic, aphrodisiac,
stimulant, used in treatment of chronic
bronchitis, in reduction of hypertension,
and decreasing cholesterol level. It is
used as alternative, anthelmintic, antirheumatic, anti-diabetic, , blood purifier,
carminative, diaphoretic, disinfectant,
diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant,
gastric tonic, stimulant ,antiseptic
20
Adverse Effects and Interactions:
Garlic has significant potential to interfere
with AIDS therapy. Patients taking
anticoagulants, platelet-inhibiting drugs,
anticholesterolemic drugs, antiviral
protease inhibitors, and antihypertensives
are not good candidates for garlic
supplementation. Concomitant use of
garlic and antidiabetic medication should
be monitored closely. Some individuals
may be allergic to garlic.
21
Colchicum
Vernacular Name: Suranjan , meadow saffron
Biological Source: Colchicum ripe seeds and
corms are derived from Colchicum autumnale.
Indian colchicum is obtained from plant
Colchicum leutum belonging to family Liliaceae.
Parts Used: Corm, seeds
Chemical Constituents: Colchicum contains
alkaloids: colchicine, colchciene, colchicoresin
and demecolcine. Apart from alkaloids, flavonoids
are also present. Colchicine is a weak base,
readily dissolve in water, alcohol or chloroform.
22
Uses: Colchicum preparations are used to relieve
pain , and inflammation in gout. It is also used
in biological experiment to produce polyploidy. It
is also reported to have anti-tumor activity.
Colchicine has a number of other pharmacological
actions, including lowering body temperature,
depressing the respiratory center, and
enhancing the action of central depressants. It
has also been shown to activate T-lymphocytes.
Colchicum is use as an anodyne, antispasmodic,
emetic, local irritant, purgative and resolvent.
Externally, it is applied to relieve neuralgia and
itchiness.
23
Adverse Effects and Interactions:
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal
pain result from the anti mitotic effect of
colchicine on the rapidly proliferating
intestinal epithelial cells. Leukopenia also
may occur. Because of the signs and
symptoms of colchicum poisoning are
similar to those of radiation sickness.
Aplastic anemia and other blood
dyscrasias have been reported.
24
Debiliated patients , elderly patients, and
those with organ disease (heart, kidney,
liver) are not appropriate candidates for
treatment with colchicum, nor are children
and pregnant women.
25
Aloe:
Vernacular Name: Indian aloe, Ailwa
Biological Source: Aloe is the dried juice of
the leaves of various species of aloe,
belonging to family Liliaceae. There are
many species of aloe: Aloe perryi, Aloe
barbadensis, and Aloe ferox and its
hybrids.
Parts Used: Leaves
26
Chemical Constituents: Aloe contains 1030% aloin. It is a mixture of three
substances, barbaloin, β-barbaloin and
iso-barbaloin. Aloe also contains a resin
ester formed from ferulic acid, para
coumaric acid and cinnamic acid.
Polysaccharides aloeferon and aloeulcin
are also present in aloe. It also contains
glycoprotein, alocutin A & B.
27
Uses: Aloe is used as irritant purgative. Its
activity is increased when it is
administered with small amounts of
alkaline salts or soaps. Aloe gel is viscous
viscid juice. It is a mucilaginous and
colorless, widely used in the cosmetic
industry as a protective in the treatment of
sunburn. It is one of the ingredients of
compound benzoin tincture. It may be
used as anthelmintic, detersive,
emmenagogue, laxative, resolvent, skin
aid, stomachic tonic.
28
The plant is bitter, sweet, cooling, aperient,
carminative, deobstruent, depurative,
diuretic, ophthalmic, alexeteric. The juice
is used in dyspepsia, amenorrhoea, burns,
colic, hyperadenosis, hepatopathy,
splenopathy, constipation,
spanomenorrhea, abdominal tumors,
dropsy, carbuncles, sciatica, lumbago and
flatulance.
29
Adverse Effects and Interactions:
The chronic use of aloe is not recommended.
Similar to all strong cathartics, aloe may cause
griping, colicky pain and excessive laxative
effect. Chronic use may lead to electrolyte
imbalance, especially potassium depletion.
Aloe may cause pelvic engorgement and increase
menstrual bleeding and the risk of spontaneous
abortion. Aloe cathartic is contraindicated in
pregnancy, nursing mothers, children younger
than 12 years of age, and suspected intestinal
obstruction. Large doses may produce nephritis.
The use of aloe and other related herbal
preparations is contraindicated in pregnancy.
30
GLOSSARY
Volatile oil: These compounds are formed from an alcohol
and a hydrocarbon
Protein: Higly complex, nitrogenous compounds, found in all
animal and vegetable tissues
Carbohydrates: These compounds are formed in plants as a
result of photosynthesis
Fat: An oil which may be of animal or plant origin, and may
be either solid or liquid
Mucilage: A gum-like substance found in cell walls or seed
coats of plants. They are polysaccharides that have a
soothing effect on inflammed tissues
Anti-bacterial:Any agent which destroys bacterias
Anti-thrombotic: Any measure that prevents or cure
thrombosis
Aphrodisiac: A compound that excites the sexual organ
31
Stimulant: A drug or other agent that increases the
activity of an organ or system within a body
Bronchitis: Inflammation of the bronchi
Alternative: A term given to a substance that
speeds up the renewal of the tissues so that they
can carry out their functions more effectively.
Diaphoretic: Aterm given to drugs that promotes
perspiration
Disinfectant: Germicides which are too corrosive or
toxic to be applied to tissues, but which are
suitable for application to inanimate objects
Diuretic: A substance that stimulates the kidneys
and increases urine and solute production
Emenagogue: A compound that is able to excite the
menstrual discharge
32
Expectorant: A group of drugs that are taken to
help in the removal of secretions from the lungs,
bronchi and trachea
Antiseptic: A substance that prevents the growth
of disease causing microorganisms. It is applied
to wounds to cleanse them and prevent infection
Alkaloid: These are organic substances, found in
association with organic acids in particularly the
flowering plants
Polypoid: Many footed
Emetic: A drug that induces vomiting
33
Irritant: A general term encompassing any agent
that causes irritation of a tissue
Purgative: A drug causing evacuation of bowel
Neuralgia: Pain extending along the course of one
or more nerves
Colic: Severe pain resulting from periodic spasm
in an abdominal organ
Nausea: A feeling of sickness without actual
vomiting
Anti-mitotic: Any agent which prevents
reproduction of cells by mitosis
Leucopenia: Decresed number of leucocytes in
blood
34
Dyscrasias: A morbid general stae resulting from
the presence of toxic materials in the blood
Resin: A mixture of complex organic substances
which can occur naturally or manufactured
synthetically
Detersive: Detergent
Stomachic: Name given to drugs that treat
stomach disorders
Laxative: A substance that is taken to evacuate
the bowel or soften stools
Aperient: A medicine that produces a natural
movement of the bowel.
35
Carminative: Apreparation to relieve
flatulance and any resultant griping
Deobstruent: A medicine which removes
obstruction
Depurative:used for or capable of
depurating; purifying; purgative
Dyspepsia: Indigestion
Ammenorrhea: Absence of menstrual
periods in a women of reproductive age
Bitter: A drug that is bitter tasting and is used
to stimulate appetite
36
Hyperadenosis: Enlargement of glands,
especially of the lymph glands.
Hepatopathy: A disease or disorder of the
liver.
Splenopathy: Disease of the spleen.
Dropsy: edema
Carbuncles: An acute inflammation
involving several hair follicles and
surounding subcutaneous tissue, forming
an extensive slough with several
discharging sinuses
37
Sciatica: is a set of symptoms including pain that
may be caused by general compression and/or
irritation of one of five nerve roots that give rise to
the sciatic nerve, or by compression or irritation
of the sciatic nerve itself.
Lumbago: low back pain
Flatulance: Flatulence is the expulsion through the
rectum of a mixture of gases that are byproducts
of the digestion process of mammals and other
animals.
Engorgement: An over fullness or obstruction of
the vessels in some part of the system;
congestion.
Nephritis: Inflammation of kidney
38
Labiatae
 Peppermint
Thyme
Spearmint
Salvia
Ocimum
39
Peppermint:
Vernacular Name: Pudina
Biological Source: Mentha piperata is a strongly
scented perennial herb belonging to family
Labiatae
Parts Used: Leaves
Chemical Constituents: Peppermint oil mainly
contains menthol (about 70%). It also contains
menthone, menthyl acetate, and other terpene
derivatives like cineole, pinene, isopulegone,
camphene, limonene, Zasmone, menthofurone,
menthyl isovalerate
40
Uses: The dried flowering tops are used to
prepare beverages like peppermint tea and in
the formulation of liqueurs and bitter. The current
use of peppermint is mainly for colic and irritable
bowl syndrome.
Peppermint oil is used as carminative , aromatic,
stimulant and flavoring agent. It is widely used
as an antiseptic in various preparations and in
mouth fresheners. It is also used as antipruritic
and counter irritant over skin and mucous
membrane.
41
Adverse Effects and Interactions:
Peppermint may relax the lower esophageal
sphincter and therefore is contraindicated
or patients with reflux disease. Peppermint
should probably not be used in patients
with biliary tract obstruction, cholecystitis,
or severe liver damage.
Peppermint oil has been shown to be a
moderately potent inhibitor of cytochrome
P450 3A4, raising the possibility thatis li ke
grapefruit , juice also may inhibit the
metabolism of felodipine.
42
Thyme:
Vernacular Name: Garden or common
thyme.
Biological Source: Thymus vulgaris is a
herb belonging to family Labiatae
Parts Used: Leaves
Chemical Constituents: Thyme oil contains
the phenols, thymol and carvacrol, as well
as cymene, pinene and borneol.
43
Uses:
Antiseptic, antispasmodic, tonic,
carminative. The fresh herb in syrup forms
a safe cure for whooping cough, as is an
infusion of the dried herb. The infusion of
tea is beneficial for catarrh, sore throat,
wind spasms, colic and in allaying fevers
and colds. Thyme is generally used in
conjunction with other remedies in herbal
medicine.
44
Spearmint:
Vernacular Name: Green mint
Biological Source: Mentha virdis is the herb
belonging to family Labiatae
Parts Used: The herb and the essential oil
Chemical Constituents: The main
components found in the essential oil
derived from the herb are: carvone,
phellandrine, limonene, and dihydrocarveol
acetate. The oil also has the esters of
acetic, butyric, and caproic acids within it.
45
Salvia:
Vernacular Name: Garden sage
Biological Source: Salvia officinalis is the
herb belonging to family labiatae
Parts Used: Leaves, Whole herb
Chemical Constituents: The herb contains
a volatile oil, tannin and resin and is
distilled to produce sage oil. The oil is
made up of salvene, pinene, cineol,
vorneol, thujone and some esters.
46
Uses: Stimulant, astringent, tonic,
carminative, aromatic. Sage makes an
excellent gargle for relaxed throat and
tonsils, bleeding gums, laryngitis and
ulcerated throat. Sage tea is valuable
against delirium of fevers , nervous
excitement and accompanying brain and
nervous diseases; as a stimulant tonic in
stomach and nervous system complaints
and in weak digestion. It also works as an
emmenagogue, in treating typhoid fever,
bilious and liver problems, kidney troubles
and lung or stomach haemorrhages.
47
The infusion is used in head colds, quinsy,
measles, painful joints, lethargy, palsy and
nervous headaches. Fresh leaves are
rubbed on the teeth to cleanse them and
strengthen gums. Even today sage is
included in tooth powders. The oil of sage
was used to remove mucus collections
from the respiratory organs and is included
in embrocations for rheumatism. The herb
is also applied warm as a poultice.
48
Ocimum:
Vernacular Name: tulsi, basil
Biological Source: Ocimum sanctum is the
herb belonging to family labiatae
Parts Used: Leaves, seeds and roots
Chemical Constituents: Essential oils,
ascorbic acid, carotene, calcium,
phosphorus and insoluble oxalates. It also
contains terpenes, fixed oil, mucilage and
fatty acid
49
Uses: It is used to treat bronchitis, catarrah,
cough, earache, gastric disorders, hepatic
disorders, inflammation, otitis, otorrhoea,
syphilis, malarial fever, cardiac debility,
gonorrhea, palpitation, urino-genital
complaints.
50
HERBAL GLOSSARY
Colic: Colic is a form of pain in the abdomen which starts and
stops abruptly.
Irritable bowl syndrome: It is a functional bowel disorder
characterized by chronic abdominal pain, discomfort,
bloating, and alteration of bowel habits in the absence of
any detectable organic cause.
Antipruritic: Preventing or relieving itching, or an agent that
does this.
Counter irritant: A counter-irritant is a remedy applied to the
body externally which relieves a discomfort somewhere else
by producing a local irritation. They effect relief by reflex
action due to the sensation they impart to the nerves of the
skin below. The term is more specifically applied to such
irritating substances as, when applied to the skin, redden or
blister it, or produce pustules, purulent issues, etc.
51
Reflux: Reflux is the regurgitation of acid
stomach contents back into the esophagus,
and is the cause of heartburn - that unpleasant,
burning feeling that wells up from the pit of the
stomach, and travels up your chest and into
your throat after a rich or fatty meal.
Cholecystitis: Cholecystitis is inflammation of
the gallbladder, usually resulting from a
gallstone blocking the cystic duct.
Delirium: A sudden state of severe confusion
and rapid changes in brain function, sometimes
associated with hallucinations and
hyperactivity, in which the patient is
inaccessible to normal contact.
52
Catarrh: Inflammation of the mucous
membranes with discharge, especially
inflammation of the air passages of the
nose and the trachea.
Otitis: Inflammation of the ear
Otorrhoea: A discharge from the ear
Syphilis: an infectious venereal disease caused by
a spirochete (Treponema pallidum) and usually
transmitted by sexual intercourse or acquired
congenitally: if untreated, it can ultimately lead to
the degeneration of the heart, bones, nerve
tissue, etc.
53
Gonorrhea: A sexually transmitted disease
caused by gonococcal bacteria that affects
the mucous membrane chiefly of the genital
and urinary tracts and is characterized by
an acute purulent discharge and painful or
difficult urination, though women often have
no symptoms.
Palpitation: Unpleasant sensations of
irregular and/or forceful beating of the heart.
Embrocations: The act of moistening and
rubbing a diseased part with spirit, oil, etc.
54
Scrophulariaceae
Digitalis
Verbascum
55
Digitalis:
Vernacular Name: Foxglove leaves
Biological Source: Digitalis consists of dried
leaves of Digitalis purpurea belonging to family
Scrophulariaceae.
Parts Used: Leaves
Chemical constituents: Digitalis purpurea
contains 35 glycosides. The primary glycosides
are : Purpurea A, Purpurea B, Odoroside H. The
digitoxigenin, digitoxin, gitoxigenin, gitaloxin are
important medicinal compounds. They are also
called secondary glycosides. They also contain
anthraquinone derivatives, saponin, flavonoid,
tannin and pectin.
56
Uses: It is a cardiac stimulant. The drug
directly stimulates the cardiac muscles. It
is used in various forms, like tablets or
capsule in the treatment of congestive
cardiac failure, atrial flutter, atrial fibrillation
and peroxysmal atrial tachycardia. The
preparation of digitalis produce cumulative
effect on cardiac muscles due to digoxin.
Hence it should be administered under
strict medical supervision. It is also used
as a diuretic.
57
Contraindications/cautions:
 Contraindicated in allergy to digitalis
preparations,
 Ventricular tachycardia,
 Ventricular fibrillation,
 Heart block,
 Sick sinus syndrome,
 IHSS, (Idiopathic hypertrophic subaortic
stenosis)
 Acute MI, (Myocardial infaraction)
 Renal insufficiency and
 Electrolyte abnormalities (decreased K+,
decreased Mg++, increased Ca++).
58
Verbascum:
Vernacular Name: Mulleins
Biological Source: The Mulleins; genus
Verbascum, are a genus of about 250 species of
flowering plants in the figwort family
Scrophulariaceae.
Parts Used: Leaves, flowers and roots
Chemical Constituents: The primary chemical
constituents of Mullein include resin, saponins,
glycoside (aucubin), flavonoids (hesperidin,
verbascoside), choline, magnesium, mucilage,
tannins and carotene. Mullein also contains
iron, magnesium, potassium, sulfur and calcium59
phosphate.
Uses:
Different parts of the plant cover different
properties. Leaves are anodyne, antibacterial,
antispasmodic, astringent, demulcent, diuretic,
expectorant, mucilaginous, sedative and
vulnerary; and the flowers are antispasmodic,
demulcent, emollient, mucilaginous, nervine and
sedative. In general, Mullein reduces
inflammation of the trachea and soothes irritated
tissues. Due to its high mucilage content, Mullein
has also been used topically by herbalists as a
soothing emollient for inflammatory skin
conditions and burns.
60
Externally, an extract of this herb made in
olive oil is excellent for soothing and
healing any inflamed surface or easing ear
problems. Mullein flowers are also made
into an oil for the treatment of frostbite,
ringworm, hemorrhoids and bruises, and
the leaves have been smoked to treat
asthma and bronchitis (although this use
seems somewhat
counterproductive). Mullein has also been
known to relieve constipation, counteract
sleeplessness, protect the kidneys and
help ease nervous tension.
61
Contraindications:
Pregnant or nursing women should not
use Mullein, and people with a history of
cancer should consult their physicians
before taking this product.
62
HERBAL GLOSSARY
Congestive cardiac failure = Congestive heart
failure (CHF) is a condition in which the heart's
function as a pump to deliver oxygen rich blood
to the body is inadequate to meet the body's
needs.
Atrial flutter = Atrial flutter is an abnormal heart
rhythm that occurs in the atria of the heart
Atrial fibrillation = Atrial fibrillation is the most
common cardiac arrhythmia (abnormal heart
rhythm)
Peroxysmal atrial tachycardia = A period of very
rapid and regular heart beats that begins and
ends abruptly.
Diuretic = A diuretic is any drug that elevates the
63
Heart block = Heart block refers to a delay in the
normal flow of electrical impulses that cause the
heart to beat. They are further classified as first-,
second-, or third-degree block.
Sick sinus syndrome = Sick sinus syndrome is a
disorder of the sinus node of the heart, which
regulates heartbeat. With sick sinus syndrome,
the sinus node fails to signal properly, resulting
in changes in the heart rate.
Idiopathic hypertrophic subaortic stenosis =
Obstruction of the flow of blood out of the left
ventricle due to hypertrophy of the ventricular
septum.
64
Myocardial infaraction = Myocardial infarction or
acute myocardial infarction, commonly known as
a heart attack, is the interruption of blood supply
to part of the heart, causing some heart cells to
die.
Renal insufficiency = Renal failure or kidney failure
is a situation in which the kidneys fail to function
adequately.
Astringent = Causing contraction of tissues, arrest
of secretion, or control of bleeding
Ventricular tachycardia = Ventricular tachycardia is
a rapid heartbeat that starts in the ventricles.
Ventricular fibrillation = An abnormal irregular heart
rhythm whereby there are very rapid
uncoordinated fluttering contractions of the lower
chambers (ventricles) of the heart.
65
Demulcent = Serving to soothe or soften.
Expectorant = Promoting or facilitating the
secretion or expulsion of phlegm, mucus, or
other matter from the respiratory tract.
Mucilaginous = having the sticky properties
of an adhesive
Sedative = A drug that calms a patient down,
easing agitation and permitting sleep
Vulnerary = used for or useful in healing
wounds
Nervine = having a soothing or calming effect
upon the nerves
66
Solanaceae
Belladonna
Hyoscyamus
Stramonium
Capsicum
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Belladonna
Vernacular Name: Luffah, Mako siyah, Belladonna
Biological Source: Belladonna consist of dried
leaves and flowering tops of Atropa belladonna,
belonging to family solanaceae.
Parts Used: roots and leaves
Chemical Constituents: Belladonna contains 0.30.6% of tropone alkaloids. The chief alkaloids are
hyoscyamine, atropine, scopolamine. It also
contains small quantity of bases like pyridine, Nmethylpyrroline. The leaves also contain
florescence substance β-methyl aesculetin and
calcium oxalate.
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Uses:
It is used as anticholinergic, narcotic, sedative, and
diuretic. It is used for the spasm of gut and
respiratory tract. Herb is used to reduce secretion
of salivary, gastric and sweat glands and in
bronchial asthma, GIT, hyper motility, peptic ulcer,
motion sickness. The aqueous extract of atropine
is applied as sulphate for the dilation of pupil of
the eyes. It is important antidote for opium,
muscarine, and chloral hydrate poisoning. Atropa
belladonna leaves are used in internal
preparations whereas roots are mainly used
externally.
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Hyoscyamus:
Vernacular Name: Ajwain Khurasani, Henbane
Biological Source: It consist of dried leaves and
flowering tops of plant Hyoscamus niger,
belonging to family Solanaceae.
Parts Used: Leaves and seeds
Chemical Constituents: Hyoscyamus leaves
contain tropane alkaloids. Atropine is main active
constituent of leaves. It also contains
scopalamine. In seeds the percentage of
alkaloids is less than the leaf. It also contains
apohyoscine, α and β belladonine, ascorbic acid
and other amino acids.
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Uses: The leaves are used as mydriatic
(atropine and hyoscine), antispasmodic,
laxative, anodyne, antiseptic and in
asthma and whooping cough. The oil
prepared from leaves and seeds of
henbane is useful as anthelmintic,
narcotic, stomachic and in inflammation
and swellings. Atropine is a CNS
stimulant. Hyoscyamus has weak
parasympatholytic action than belladonna
and stramonium; prevent gripping pain
when added to cathartics.
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Stramonium:
Vernacular Name: Thorn apple, Dhaturah
Biological Source: Datura stramonium is a
common weed belonging to family
Solanaceae.
Parts Used: Leaves and seeds
Chemical Constituents: Datura contains
tropane alkaloids. The drug contains
hyoscine
(scopolamine) and hyoscyamine (atropine).
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Uses: Datura is an anticholinergic and
parasympatholytic drug. It is used
as anaesthetic, anticatarrhal, antispasmodic, aphrodiasic, hypnotic,
narcotic and sedative
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Capsicum:
Vernacular Name: Lal mirch, chillies
Biological Source: It is the dried ripe fruit of
capsicum annum, belonging to family
Solanaceae.
Parts Used: Fruits
Chemical Constituents: Fruits contain
pungent phenolic compounds;
capsaicinoids, carotenoids, ascorbic acid,
fixed oil and flavonoids.
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Uses:
It is used as absorbent, aphrodisiac, cardiac
tonic, carminative, counter irritant, diuretic,
irritant, rubefacient, sialagogue, stomach
tonic, vesicant.
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HERBAL GLOSSARY
Anticholinergic = The action of certain
medications that inhibit the transmission of
parasympathetic nerve impulses and
thereby reduce spasms of smooth muscle
Narcotic = A drug derived from opium or
opiumlike compounds, with potent
analgesic effects associated with
significant alteration of mood and
behavior, and with the potential for
dependence and tolerance following
repeated administration.
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Sedative = A drug that calms a patient down,
easing agitation and permitting sleep.
Antidote = A remedy that counteracts the
effects of poison
Mydriatic = A drug that dilates the pupil
Parasympatholytic = Pertains to a drug that
blocks the effects of the parasympathetic
nervous system
Anaesthetic = A substance that causes lack
of feeling or awareness. A local anesthetic
causes loss of feeling in a part of the body.
A general anesthetic puts the person to
sleep.
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Anticatarrhal = Efficacious against catarrh
(inflammation of nose and throat)
Hypnotic = tending to produce sleep
Sedative = An agent or a drug having a soothing,
calming, or tranquilizing effect.
Absorbent = A substance that is capable of
absorbing.
Irritant = A source of irritation
Rubefacient = A substance that irritates the skin,
causing redness
Sialagogue = A drug or other agent that increases
the flow of saliva
Vesicant = A substance that causes tissue blistering.
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Apocynaceae
 Rauwolfia
 Catharanthus
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Rauwolfia
Vernacular Name: Serpentine root
Biological Source: Rauwolfia consists of
the dried roots and rhizomes of Rauwolfia
serpentina, belonging to family
Apocynaceae.
Parts Used: Roots and Rhizomes
Chemical Constituents: The Rauwolfia
roots and rhizomes contain around 30-50
alkaloids, other organic matter like
phytosterol, fatty acid, unsaturated
alcohols and sugars are also present in
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rauwolfia
Uses:
Rauwolfia serpentina and its preparation are
used as hypotensive agent and in certain
neuropsychiatric disorders. Ajmaline is
used for the treatment of cardiac
arrhythmias similar to the action of
quinidine. Ajmalicine can also be isolated
from catharanthus species (vinca) and is
used in circulatory diseases. The
decoction of root is used to increase
uterine contraction in difficult cases. The
extract is used for intestinal disorders and
as anthelmintic , bitter, tonic and febrifuge.
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Catharanthus
Vernacular Name: Sadabahar, Periwinkle
Biological Source: It is a dried whole plant
of Catharanthus roseus, belonging to
family Apocynaceae.
Parts Used: Whole plant
Chemical Constituents: Catharanthus
contains terpenes and more than 100
different alkaloids. The alkaloids are of
indole; dihydroindole and dimeric type.
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The indole or dihydroindole derivatives are
ajmalicine, tetra hydroalstonine,
serpentine and lochnerine. The dimeric
alkaloids are active against malignant
tumours namely vincristine and
vinblastine. The vincristine is available in
0.0002% and vinblastine 0.003% in crude
drug.
Uses:
Vinca is used in cancer and hypertension.
The Vincristine is used in leukemia while
vinblastine is used in Hodgkin’s disease
and chlorionepithelioma.
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HERBAL GLOSSARY
Cardiac Arrhythmia = is a term for any of a large
and heterogeneous group of conditions in which
there is abnormal electrical activity in the heart.
The heart beat may be too fast or too slow, and
may be regular or irregular.
Decoction = The process includes mashing, and
then boiling in water to extract oils, volatile
organic compounds, and other chemical
substance.
Bitter = Bitters are herbs and herbal preparations
that have a characteristically sharp effect on the
palate.
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Febrifuge = A medication that reduces fever;
an antipyretic
Leukemia = a progressive, malignant disease
of the blood-forming organs, marked by
distorted proliferation and development of
leukocytes and their precursors in the blood
and bone marrow.
Hodgkin’s disease = a cancer of the lymphatic
system
Chlorionepithelioma = a rare malignant
tumour of the placenta originating in the
chorion.
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Umbelliferae
• Fennel
• Carum
• Coriander
• Conium
• Asafoetida
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FENNEL
Vernacular Name: Saunf, Fennel
Biological Source: The drug consists of the
dried ripe fruit of Foeniculum vulgare,
belonging to family Umbeliferae.
Parts Used: Whole plant and dried ripe
fruits
Chemical Constituents: Fennel contains
volatile oil, fixed oil and proteins. The chief
constituents of volatile oils are a phenolic
ether anethole and the ketone fenchone.
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Uses: Fennel and its volatile oil are used
as a flavouring agent, carminative,
expectorant, stimulant, stomachic, and
anthelmintic. It is also useful in dental
and mouthwash preparations due to
pleasant taste of anethole. Fennel water
is useful in colic and flatulence in
children.
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Carum
Vernacular Name: Zira, Caraway
Biological Source: Caraway consists of
dried, ripe fruits of Carum carvi, belonging
to family umbelliferae.
Parts Used: Fruits
Chemical Constituents: Caraway contains
volatile oil. The main constituents of
volatile oil are carvone and limonene.
Caraway also contains fixed oils, resins,
proteins, coloring matters and calcium
oxalate crystal.
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Uses: Caraway is used as a
carminative, flavoring agent,
stomachic and spice. Its oils is used
in the preparation of mouth washes,
tooth pastes, chewing gums, soaps,
cosmetics etc.
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Coriander
Vernacular Name: Dhania, Coriander
Biological Source: It is the dried ripe fruit of
Coriandrum sativum, belonging to family
Umbelliferae.
Parts Used: fruits and leaves
Chemical Constituents: Coriander fruits
contain volatile oil. The main constituents
of volatile oil are linalol and α pinene. It
also contains fixed oils, malic acid, tannins
etc. coriander leaves also contain vitamin
A.
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Uses: Coriander fruits and volatile oils are
used as a carminative and flavoring
agents. It is also useful as anthelmintic,
aromatic, diuretic, stimulant stomachic
and aphrodisiac. It is one of the
important ingredient for cooking.
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Conium
Vernacular Name: Poison hemlock
Biological Source: Conium maculatum is a
plant belonging to family Umbelliferae.
Parts Used: leaves, fruits and seeds
Chemical Constituents: The most
important content of hemlock leaves is the
alkaloid coniine, which is poisonous with a
disagreeable odour. Other alkaloids in the
plants include methyl-coniine, conhydrine,
pseudoconhydrine, ethyl piperidine.
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Uses: Sedative, anti-spasmodic,
anodyne. It is used to remedy undue
nervous motor excitability, eg teething,
cramp and muscle spasm of the larynx
and gullet. When inhaled, hemlock is
good in relieving cough, bronchitis,
whooping cough and asthma. It is used
as an antidote to strychnine and other
similar poisoning.
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Asafoetida
Vernacular Name: Hing, Asafoetida
Biological Source: Asafoetida is an oleo
gum resin obtained as exudation by
incision from living rhizomes and roots of
Ferula foetida, belonging to family
Umbelliferae.
Parts Used: Resinous exudates of the
root.
Chemical Constituents: Volatile oils 420%, resins 40-65% and gum 25%.
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Uses: The drug is used as carminative,
diuretic, expectorant, antispasmodic,
anthelmintic and applied externally to
ring worms. It is also used as veterinary
practice.
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Leguminosae
Acacia
Glycyrrhiza
Senna
Cassia
Tamarind
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Acacia
Vernacular Name: Babul, Kikar,
Biological Source: Acacia gum is a dried
gummy exudate obtained from the stem
and branches of Acacia senegal and some
other species of Acacia. It is a member of
leguminosae family.
Parts Used: Bark, gum, leaves, seeds and
pods
Chemical Constituents: Acacia contains
mainly arabin that is mixture of calcium,
magnesium and potassium salt of arabic
acid. In this calcium salt is found in
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Arabic acid on hydrolysing with dilute
sulphuric acid forms L-rhamnose, Larabinose, L-aldobionic acid and dgalactose. It also contains oxydase,
pectinase, peroxidase and diastase. Bark
contains a large quantity of tannins; pods
contain about 22% of tannins. The water
content is about 14%.
Uses: Acacia gum is used as an emulsifying
agent, suspending agent, emollient,
demulcent, binder, adhesive in tablets and
lozenges. The gum acacia solution is given
as a plasma substitute in hemolysis.
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It is also applied externally on
inflammations, such as burns, sores
and nodules in leprosy. It is useful in
constipation. Apart from that it is
useful as an astringent, demulcent,
aphrodisiac, nutritive and expectorant.
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Glycyrrhiza
Vernacular Name: Mulathi, Liquorice
Biological Source: Liquorice consists of
dried roots and rhizomes of Glycyrrhiza
glabra and other species of glycyrrhiza,
belonging to family Leguminosae.
Parts Used: Peeled roots
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Chemical Constituents: It contain
triterpenoid saponin glycoside known as
glycyrrhizin. Glycyrrhizin is 150 times
sweeter than sugar. This on hydrolysis
produces glycyrrhetinic acid and 2 moles
of glucuronic acid. It also contains
aspargine, sugar resin ,fat, etc. The yellow
color of liquorice is due to the presence of
flavinoids like liquiritin, isoliquiritin. It also
contains constituents like bitter principle
glycycamarin, coumarin, starch etc.
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Uses: Liquorice is used as an
expectorant and demulcent. It is also
used for gastric and duodenal ulcers. It
is used as a sweetening agent,
antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory and in
Addison’s disease
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Senna
Vernacular Name: Indian Senna
Biological Source: Senna consist of dried
leaflets of Cassia acutifolia , known as
Alexandrian senna, and Cassia
acutifolia, known as Tinnevelly senna.
These are commonly known as cassia
senna, belonging to family leguminosae.
Parts Used: leaves
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Chemical Constituents: Senna contains
anthraquinone glycosides as sennoside
A,B,C,and D. emodin, chrysophanol, aloe
emodin, rhein, and two naphthalene
glycosides. It also contains yellow flavinol,
coloring matter kaempferol and its
glucosides kaempfrin, sterol and its
glucoside, mucilage, resin and calcium
oxalate
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Uses: Senna leaves are used as laxative
and cathartic. It acts as an irritant
purgative due to the presence of
anthraquinone derivative. Senna is
mixed with carminative drugs due to its
gripping action. Powdered senna is
mixed with vinegar and applied
externally to cure skin diseases.
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Cassia
Vernacular Name: Purging cassia, amulthus
Biological Source: The dried roots and leaves a
Cassia fistula are commonly known as purging
cassia, belonging to family leguminosae.
Parts Used: Pulp, root, bark, flower, pods, leaves
Chemical Constituents: Sennoside A,B; volatile
oil; the pulp consists of sugar, gum, astringent
matter, glutin, coloring matter, rhein and its
glucoside, barbaloin, aloin, formic acid, butyric
acid, their ethyl esters, oxalic acid,
thiocyanogen, tannins, phlobaphenes, reducing
sugars and oxyanthoquines.
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Uses: The fruits are laxative, improve
taste, cure leprosy and other skin
diseases. Roots act a s purgative, tonic
and febrifuge.
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Tamarind
Vernacular Name: Imli, tamarind
Biological Source: It consists of dried fruits
of Tamarindus indica; belonging to family
leguminosae
Parts Used: Roots, leaves, fruits and seeds
Chemical Constituents: Organic acids and
their salts – namely tartaric acid, citric
acid, maleic acid, sodium and potassium
tartarate and invert sugars.
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Uses: Bark of Tamarindus indica is
astringent, emmenagogue, tonic, antidiarrhoeal, thermogenic, anti-inflammatory,
anti-fungal, diuretic, useful in swellings,
fever, gastropathy, wounds, ulcers,
jaundice, scabies and tumors. Fruits are
digestive, carminative, laxative, antiseptic,
ophthalmic and febrifuge. The seeds are
astringent, cooling, aphrodisiac,
stomachic, used in constipation and as
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tonic.
Papaveraceae
• Papaver somniferum
• Sanguinaria canadensis
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Papaver somniferum
Vernacular Name: Afim, poppy
Biological Source: Opium is the air dried
latex obtained by incision of unripe
capsule Papaver somniferum, belonging to
family papaveraceae.
Parts Used: The capsules and flowers
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Chemical constituents: Opium contains about 25
alkaloids in which morphine, codeine, thebaine,
noscapine, narceine and papaverine are
important alkaloids. Generally these alkaloids are
combined with meconic acid. Morphine, codeine
and thebaine contain phenanthrene nucleus and
papaverine are freely basic and highly toxic
compounds whereas noscapine, narceine and
papaverine are freely basic in nature and less
toxic compounds. Morphine contains both
phenolic and alcoholic hydroxyl groups, on
acetylation converted in to Heroin.It also contains
other constituents like citric, tartaric acid, protein,
coloring matter, sugars etc.
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Uses: Opium causes depression action on
central nervous system, due to narcotic
principle. It is also used as sedative,
analgesic, hypnotic and anti-spasmodic
drug. Codeine is less sedative than
morphine and useful in cough preparations.
Papaverine is useful in muscular spasms
as smooth muscle relaxant action.
Noscapine is a non-narcotic compound and
useful as antitussive agent. Opium is also
useful in diarrhoea, dysentry and
diaphoretic disease. Opium, morphine and
heroin cause drug addiction in which heroin
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is a more dangerous drug.
Sanguinaria:
Vernacular Name: Bloodroot
Biological Source: Sanguinaria canadensis
is a spring flower belonging to
papaveraceae.
Parts Used: Rhizome
Chemical Constituents: It has the alkaloids
sanguinarine, chelerythrine, protropine
and B.homochelidonineas its active
component. Protropine is one of the most
widely used opium alkaloids.
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Uses: Emetic, cathartic, expectorant,
emmenagogue. The plant is of great
benefit in dyspepsia, asthma, bronchitis,
croupand pulmonart consumption. It can
be used in heart disease, heart weakness
and palpitations, nervous irritation, torpid
liver, scrofula, dysentry and to lower the
pulse rate. Externally, it can be applied to
cure ringworm, fungal growths, ulcers,
eczema and cancerous growths. Care
must be taken as toxic doses of
Sanguinaria can be deleterious to the
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person.
Ranunculanceae
• Aconitum
• Larkspur
• Pulsatilla
• Hydrastis
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Aconitum:
Vernacular Name: Wolfsbane root
Biological Source: It consist of the dried tuberous
roots of Aconitum napellus, belonging to family
ranunculaceae.
Parts Used: The leaves used fresh and the root
when dried.
Chemical Constituents: The important alkaloids are
aconitine, aconine and benzyl aconine. Aconitine
on hydrolysis produce benzoyl aconine and
acetic acid. It also contains aconitic acid and
abundance of starch. A traces of ephedrine,
spartein, neoline, napelline, ascorbic acid are
also present.
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Uses: It is a cardiac drug as CVS
depressant. It is used in respiratory
failure, gout, rheumatism, neuralgia and
nervous debility and as antipyretic. It is
extremely toxic in large dose and milk is
given as antidote in aconite poisoning.
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Larkspur
Vernacular Name: Field Larkspur
Biological Source: Delphinicum consolida is
a plant belonging to family ranunculaceae.
Parts Used: Seeds
Chemical Constituents: The active principle
in the plant is delphinine, an irritant poison.
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Uses: Parasiticide, insecticide. The tincture
of the seeds is used to destroy lice and
nits in the hair and given internally in
spasmodic asthma and dropsy. The
expressed juice from the leaves was
applied to bleeding piles and an infusion
of the whole plant was said to benefit
colic.
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Pulsatilla
Vernacular Name: Pasque Flower
Biological Source: Pulsatilla vulgaris
(Pasque Flower) belongs to family
ranunculaceae.
Parts Used: whole plant
Chemical Constituents: The plant contains
lactones, saponins, anemone comphor,
tannins, and a volatile oil.
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Uses: Used for treatment of Colds and
coughs, Sinusitis, Sore throat, Chicken
pox, Mumps, Measles, Fever, Painful
Menstruation, Varicose veins, Migraine,
Headaches, Backache, Joint pains,
Cystitis, Varicose veins, Eye infections,
Conjunctivitis, Earache, Toothache,
Heartburn, Nausea, vomiting , diarrhea
and Insomnia
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Hydrastis:
Vernacular Name: Golden Seal
Biological Source: Hydrastis canadensis is a
plant belonging to family ranunculaceae.
Parts Used: Rhizome
Chemical Constituents: It contains the
alkaloids berberine, hydrastine and
canadine, as well as resins, albumin,
starch, fatty matter, sugar, lignin and
volatile oil.
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Uses: Tonic, stomachic, laxative, alternative,
detergent. It is used as remedy for sore
eyes, general ulceration and disordered
digestion. The herb has a special action
on the mucous membranes of the body,
making it an excellent remedy for catarrah,
dyspepsia, loss of appetite and liver
problems. Given as a tonic, the root is
highly effective in easing constipation and
is very good at stopping sickness and
vomiting. It can be used to treat
haemorrhoids.
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