Pankaj Oudhia's Research Documents on Biodiversity and Traditional Healing. Part-1
Original Link http://www.pankajoudhia.com/RA1.pdf
Revised Version of Selected Botanical.com Articles Pankaj Oudhia Introductory Note While going through Botanical.com articles I noted spelling mistakes as well as grammatical errors. It is not possible to correct it there. Hence, I decided to present it through pankajoudhia.com. These articles with new information resulted from recent Ethnobotanical surveys are available in pankajoudhia.com. How to cite this research document Oudhia, P. (2010). Revised version of Selected Botanical.com Articles. http://pankajoudhia.com New record of white flowered variety of medicinal weed Asteracantha sp. in Chhattisgarh(India) Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Abstract During the floristic surveys of Chhattisgarh region, white flowered variety of medicinal weed Asteracantha longifolia was observed. The occurrence of this rare variety in Chhattisgarh and to list out the traditional medicinal knowledge about this herb, detailed surveys were conducted. The surveys revealed the high density of this herb in Raipur and Durg districts. Some valuable medicinal properties have also been noted during the surveys. Common Indian Names of Mokhla (Asteracantha sp.) Languages/Regions Names 1) Gujarati Ekhara, Gokhran, Talamkhan 2) Hindi Gokhal Kanta, Gokshura, Talamkhana 3) Kanarese Kalavankabija, Kolavalike 4) Marathi Talimakhana, Vikhara 5) Sanskrit Ikshura, Kak-Kolilaksha, Srigalghant, Vajrakantaka Key-words Asteracantha longifolia; Hygrophila spinosa; white flowered variety; Medicinal weed; weed; Introduction Asteracantha known as Mokhla kanta, is one of the common wasteland weeds in Chhattisgarh. In different Indian languages it is known as Ekharo, Gokhran, Talamkhan (Gujerati), Gokhal Kanta, Gokshura, Talamkhana (Hindi), Kalavanlbija, kolavalike(Canarese),Talimkhana, Vikhara (Marathi), Ikshura,kakkokilaksha,Srigalghant, Vajrokantaka (Sanskrit), Asteracantha longifolia (syn.Hygrophila spinosa) is a stout herb with fasciculate, erect and subquadrangular stem, Leaves are sessile and whorled in verticels of 6 at each node. All leaves are with straight sharp yellow spine in its axil. Flowers are in whorls of 8 (in 4 pairs) at each node. The colour of flower is purple blue (Aghrakar, 1991). During the floristic surveys by the team of Society For Parthenium Management (SOPAM) flowered variety of this useful weed was observed. The occurrence of this rare variety in Chhattisgarh and many parts of India has not been reported in available scientific literatures. Hence, this is a new record of occurrence of white variety of Asteracantha longifolia. To find out the occurrence of this rare variety in different parts of newly born state Chhattisgarh and also to list out the traditional medicinal knowledge about this useful weed, a detailed Ethnobotanical survey was conducted during 2001-2002. Material and Methods The detailed ethno-botanical survey was conducted in the Chhattisgarh region. The study was done in selected districts i.e. Raipur, Bilaspur, Durg, Rajnandgaon, Bastar and Sarguja, From each selected district, two blocks and from each selected block, a random sample of four villages was taken. A proportionate sample of villagers from each selected village was taken to give a total sample size of 1000 respondents. The data were collected with the help of personal interviews according to a well-prepared interview schedule. For knowledge of medicinal uses of Asteracantha, the help of reference literature of Ayurvedic, Homoeopathic, Yunani, Allopathic and other systems of medicine was utilized. The weed was collected during intensive visits to the targeted villages at intervals of 15 days. Visual assessments were made both on crop fields and wastelands. Results and Discussion The survey revealed that Asteracantha specially the white flowered variety of Asteracantha is one of the most frequently used herbs in Chhattisgarh for the treatments of many common ailments. In general, the roots, leaves and seeds of common Asteracantha are used for the preparation of drug but in Chhattisgarh whole plant is mostly used. The study revealed that the natives of Chhattisgarh are having rich traditional medicinal knowledge about this useful weed. In all selected district, significantly higher frequency was observed in Raipur and Durg districts. In Rajnandgaon and Dhamtari districts rare occurrence was observed. It was noted that the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh prefer white flowered variety of Asteracantha as compared to blue purple flowered variety. According to them, white flowered variety is having higher medicinal properties. The scientific studies for confirmation of these observations by traditional healers have yet not been conducted in any part of the world. The survey suggested that there is a strong need to conduct studies on this important aspect. Significantly high density of this weed was noted in swampy places. In paddy growing areas, farmers use this weed as first aid measure to stop bleeding from injured parts. According to traditional healers of areas where white flowered variety of Asteracantha occur, the white flowered variety is more effective not only in bleeding but also in healing the wound quickly. In areas where this white variety not occurs, the traditional healers are dependent on the areas where it occurs in abundance. The traditional healers of these areas purchase this weed during growing season, dry it and use it round the year. The medicinal properties of this white flowered variety have also not been documented in available scientific literatures. The studies on botany of both of these varieties revealed that morphologically both of the species are identical. Only difference is of the colour of flowers. The detailed studies on different important aspects are in progress. Reference Aghrakar, S.P. (1991). Medicinal plants in Bombay Presidency. Pbl. Scientific Publishers, Jodhpur (India). p.32. Traditional medicinal knowledge about common herbs used against venomous creatures snakes and scorpions in Chhattisgarh (India) Research Note - P.Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Chhattisgarh, a newly born state of India, is rich in biodiversity. Many rare and valuable flora and fauna found in abundance. Most of the area is under cover of dense forest and tribals still use traditional systems of medicine to solve their health problems. In these traditional systems of medicine herbs are used in majority. In many parts of the state, traditional healers also use medicinal insects, mites and spiders for treatment. Due to excessive rainfall and dense forests venomous creatures like snakes, scorpions etc. are in abundance and every year thousands of people get affected due to these creatures. Common and popular names of Commelina benghalensis around the world Languages/Regions/Countries Names 1) Bengal Kachradam, Kanchara, Kanchura 2) English Day flower, Dew Flower 3) Gujarati Mhotunshishmuliyun 4) Hindi Kanchara, Kanuraka 5) Marathi Kena 6) Philippines Alibangon, Anagalide azul 7) Sanskrit Kanchata, Marishajalaga, Tanduliya 8) Sind Chura, Kanna, Khanna 9) Sinhalese Deyamainaireya 10) Spanish Ahagalide azul 11) Tamil Kanangakarai 12) Telugu Nirukassuvu, Vennodeviruka The Raigarh district of Chhattisgarh is locally known as "Nag Lok" (Kingdom of snakes). As fan of local healers and as herb expert, I frequently visit to different dense forests of Chhattisgarh to list out the traditional knowledge about common herbs. You will find details of some of these important herbs used against the venomous creatures in the present article. Out of all herbs used against these creatures, the most important in my view is Bharamarmar. In Hindi Bhramar is the fly and Mar means to kill. Few years back I have seen this useful plant in southern part of Chhattisgarh. According to tribals this plant is becoming endangered and less than 1000 plants are remaining in the state. This plant attracts the flies and venomous snakes. Any time of the year, you will find the dead bodies of thousands of flies and hundreds of snakes around this plant even up to depth of 1 to 2 meters. This plant is not a carnivorous plant. Very few people are aware of this unique property of this plant. In available literatures, I have found no such plant similar to Bhramarmar. The traditional healers use the bark of stem against snake bite. It is also used in case of lethal diseases like cancer. I have tried to plant this herb in my home garden but not got success. In my life I have seen only three such plants isolated in different regions of Chhattisgarh. I have noted that when any fly or snake came in effective periphery (3 meters approx) of this plant, their activities and movement slows down and after two or three hours they loss their lives. I personally feel that there is a strong need to document the unique properties of this herb. Leucas aspera, locally known as Guma, or Gumma bhaji, is also an interesting herb. It is found as rainy season wasteland (Sometimes in crop fields also) weed. It is a popular bhaji (potherb) in Chhattisgarh. It is general belief in Chhattisgarh that regular intake of this herb develops a typical smell inside the body which repel away the venomous snakes. The local people particularly the workers engaged in paddy fields prefer this potherb. The traditional healers use this herb both externally and internally in case of snake bite. Sometimes the fresh juice of leaves is pored in ears of the patients. In many parts of Chhattisgarh, where Leucas is not found as weed, local people plant this herb in garden for use in case of emergency. Leucas is also a popular Homoeopathic drug and as Homoeopathic drug it is used against snake bite by practitioners. From dense forests, the trees of Garun phali are common. Garun phali is the pod of this leguminous tree. This pod exactly resembles the body of snake both in size and appearance. In urban areas people use to keep this pod in their houses in order to repel away the snakes. The traditional healers use the seeds of this herb against snake bite as an antidote. Commelina oblique is a common paddy weed in Chhattisgarh. It is locally known as KauaKaini. In North eastern parts of Chhattisgarh its root is used as antidote to snake-bite. In other parts of Chhattisgarh, the traditional healers are not aware of this unique property of the herb. In these parts, field workers use the fresh plant as styptic to stop the bleeding from injured part of the body as first aid measures. Phyllanthus niruri, locally known as Bhui-aonla, is now known as potential hepatotonic in all over world. In Chhattisgarh, it is found as common weed. In many common problems including liver complains, the traditional healers use it very frequently. During my survey to Kanker district of Chhattisgarh state, I have seen the practical use of aqueous extract and decoction of whole plant against snake bite, internally. In case of scorpion bite, the most frequently used herb is Achyranthes aspera (locally known as Onga, Chirchita or Latkana). The whole plant is used against scorpion bite. The juice of plant repels away the scorpion. To demonstrate its effectiveness, local healers smear the juice on hands (up to shoulder) and force the scorpions to walk on their hands. Scorpions hesitate to walk on hands. For Indians, Achyranthes is one of the most valuable herbs. In majority of Hindu homes you will find this herb in home gardens. It is general belief that Achyranthes in home garden repels away all venomous creatures. I have yet not tested the science behind this belief. In case of scorpion bite, the local people immediately apply the fresh housefly (Musca domestica) as first aid measure. It is a common use you will find in the state. Some other herbs used are Cleome viscosa, Euphorbia hirta, Portulaca oleracea, Carthamus tinctorius, Vernonia cinerea (Especially for Scorpion bite), Xanthium strumarium, Ocimum basilicum etc. About The Author Pankaj Oudhia, Herb Expert and Convenor Society for Parthenium Management (SOPAM) 28-A, College Road, Geeta Nagar, Raipur - 492 001 India Email : pankajoudhia@usa.net Homepage : http://www.celestine-india.com/pankajoudhia Copyright © 2001,2002,2003. All Rights Reserved. Quotation from this document should cite and acknowledge the author. For reprint rights, please email Pankaj Oudhia directly for written permission. Traditional medicinal knowledge about common herbs used for diabetes in Chhattisgarh (India) Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Here in urban areas of India, diabetes (locally known as Sugar disease or Madhumeh) is one of the most common disease but in tribal areas diabetes is a new disease but the number of patients are increasing at alarming rates. During my studies at different interior parts of herbal state Chhattisgarh, I have found that in tribal areas, people in touch of urban areas are the main sufferers. Surprisingly I have not seen any tribal in interiors having this ailment. According to traditional healers of the state, urban cultures and foods are responsible for this new disease in their people. Diabetes is well known to these traditional healers since centuries. They are having rich traditional medicinal knowledge about the common herbs useful in curing diabetes. This is the reason that daily hundreds of patients from urban areas visit to these traditional healers for natural and safe treatment. Although it is very difficult to get the information regarding their 'trade secrets' but with the help of my surveys and studies in dense forests of Chhattisgarh, I have gathered some valuable information about these herbs. The Indian names of Gudmar (Gymnema sp.) Languages/Regions/Countries Names 1) Bengal Merasingi 2) Gujarati Dhubli, Mardashingi 3) Hindi Gurmar, Merasingi 4) Kanarese Sannagerasehambu 5) Marathi Kavali, Kalikadori, Vakundi 6) Sanskrit Meshashringi, Medhunashini 7) Tamil Adigam, Cherukurinja 8) Telugu Podapatri 9) English Periploca of the woods, Small Indian Ipecacaunha In their treatments, the tribal healers give more emphasis on improvement of activities of Agnashay (Pancrease). They do not rely on modern test reports. They simply ask the patient to pass urine on some local herbs and tell them to come 4 days later. By observing the behaviour of these herbs, the healers identify the severity of disease and decide the treatments. For different patients, they use different test plants. I have seen the most frequent use of Luffa sp. as test plant. During my three years studies and surveys. I have identified 56 traditional healers specialized in treating diabetes. Out of these fifty six, twenty five have been identified as potential healers. Most of them are over 60 years of age. I have spent two days with each of the potential healer. One most common recommendation I had observed was the use of honey in the regular diet. The traditional healers recommend honey to the sufferers. According to them honey from wild sources is a good tonic for Pancrease. They recommend it with other medicines also. The most frequently used herb for diabetes patients is the wood of tree named Bija. The traditional healers collect the wood from forest and dip it overnight in herbal solution. Next day after drying it in shade, it is given to the patients for regular use. The patients are advised to dip the part of wood in glass of water overnight and next day drink the leachate on an empty stomach. According to traditional healers this leachate is useful for all because it is general tonic specially for patients suffering from diabetes, memory weakness and anaemia. It is also useful for chronic constipation. Bija is found in abundance in Chhattisgarh. After observing miracle effect of this herb. I have gone through scientific literatures and found this information. The scientific name of Bija or Beeja is Pterocarpus marsupium Roxb. It is a tall ever green tree, blaze grey-streaked, then pink and finally red. Its leaflets are 5-7, elliptic - oblong to ovate, coriaceous, 7-13 cm long, obtuse or subacute, often slightly or deeply emarginate, glaucous beneath. Panicles terminals 15-30 cm long. The color of flowers is yellow. Calyx dark brown, pubescent, teeth deltoid, unequal. Corolla color yellow. Pods are orbicular and up to 4 cm in diameter. In Chhattisgarh, it is popularly used for making furniture and agricultural implements. Common and popular names of Bija (Pterocarpus marsupium) around the world. Languages/Regions/Countries Names 1) Arabic Dammul-akhvaine Hindi, Damul akhvaine 2) Bengal Pitsal, Pitshul 3) Kanarese Benga, Honi, Honne, Netra, Bibla, Netturuhonne 4) English Bijasal, Indian kino Tree, Malabar Kino Tree 5) French Kino des Indes, Pterocarpe a bourse 6) Gujarati Bia, Bibla, Bio, Hiradokhana 7) Hindi Banda, Bija, Bijasal, Bijasar, Biya, Hiradokhi, Paisar, Peisar, Piasal, Pitshola 8) Malyalam Carintakara, Malantakara, Venna 9) Marathi Assan, Asana, Bibla, Dhorbenla 10) Persian Khunesiahwashan 11) Sanskrit Bandhukapushpa, Bijaka, Bijavriksha, Mahakutaja, Mahasarja, Pita salaka, Pitashala, Paramayudha, Priyaka, Sauri 12) Sinhalese Gammalu, Gummalo 13) Tamil Asanam, Kani, Pidasaralam, Pidagaragam, Sarudagam, Tamisu, Tannini 14) Telugu Peddagi, Peddegi, Pedegu, Vegisa, Yegi, Vengisa 15) Urdu Damulakhvain 16) Uriya Byasa, Piyasalo Gudmar is another useful herb for patients suffering from diabetes. In many parts of Chhattisgarh Gudmar found in isolated patches. Its common name Gudmar clearly indicates its use. The meaning of Gud is Jaggery, sugar and mar, to kill or destroy. It is used to destroy sugar hence useful in diabetes. Out of 56 traditional healers, I have observed ten traditional healers, all from the Bastar region, are using this herb in combination of other herbs like Chirayata (Correct name Kalmegh) etc, but main constituent is Gudmar. I have seen the common tribal chewing the leaves of Gudmar during their routine visits to nearby forests. The chewing of fresh leaves desensitize the test buds and up to few hours after chewing, you will feel no taste, even sweetest food will feel tasteless. In scientific literatures, I have read some research findings on use of Gudmar for this disease but most of researchers are using only Gudmar. They are ignoring the role of other herbs used by traditional healers in the mixture. The scientific name of Gudmar is Gymnema sylvestris. It is a common herb of Monsoon forests. It is a large woody climber. The herb is much branched and young stem is densely pubescent. Leaves are opposite, ovate, elliptic with rounded or cordate base. Flowers are in Cymes. Fruits are lanceolate, generally single. In Chhattisgarh, the flowering time is April to May. In Ayurveda this herb is mentioned as bitter, acrid, cooling, tonic, alterative, anthelmintic, alexeteric and useful in respiratory troubles, heart - diseases, piles, leucoderma and urinary discharges. Sadaphooli or Sada Suhagan is well known herb in western countries also. It is used for preparing the drug for blood cancer. Although it is not indigenous to Chhattisgarh, but in almost every home you will find this herb in home gardens. It is grown as ornamental plant as it flowers in almost every month of the year. The traditional healers use the fresh flowers for the treatment of diabetes. The patients are advised to swallow this flower daily. The number of flowers depends upon the severity of the disease. In this herb, white and pink colored flowers are found. White flowered variety is preferred by traditional healers. In scientific literatures, I have not found the description of anti-diabetic properties of this herb. The scientific name of Sadaphooli or Sada Suhagan is Catharanthus roseus G. Don (Syn. Vinca rosea Linn.; Vinca pusilla Hook f.; Lochnera rosea (Linn.) R.). The family is Apocynaceae. It is an erect, slightly smelling perennial herb. Leaves are oval, obovate or oblong-elliptic, acute and glassy. Flowers are fragrant, pinkish (var. roseus) or white (var. alba). Flowers are arranged in terminal or axillary cymose clusters. Fruits are hairy and up to 3cm long. During my visit to traditional healer of Bastar, I have observed a special role of native species of red fire ants in identification of diabetic patient. According to this traditional healer this ant bite (when disturbed) only to healthy people, never bite (even forcefully) to diabetic patient. This is a unique diagnostic method I have never seen in my life. I have collected the specimen and sent to the experts for identification. Results are awaited. The other useful herbs are Karela (grown as vegetable), Jamun (Common fruit, locally known as Chirai Jam), Mango (Locally known as Aam), Chickpea (Cultivated as rabi crop) etc. I have collected the list of patients from these traditional healers and met the patients to verify the healer's claim. I have found most of them healthy and free of disease. They have stopped taking Allopathic Medicines and recommending relatives to visit to the traditional healers. I personally feel that there is a strong need to document and utilize this valuable knowledge for benefit of humanity. Traditional medicinal knowledge about common herbs used for asthma in Chhattisgarh, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Although the number of government dispensaries (based on Allopathy System of Medicine) is increasing in tribal regions of Chhattisgarh, but there are still many traditional healers using traditional system of medicine. Last year I have collected the list of over two thousand traditional healers specialized in treatment of common ailments to chronic diseases. Surprisingly I have noted that majority of traditional healers are specialized in sex related diseases and Asthma. I will describe the herbs used in sex related disease in next article. In present article, I am trying to describe the common herbs used for Asthma in Chhattisgarh, India. I have collected this information by frequent visits to these traditional healers. I am presenting these miracle herbs in front of world to show the glimpses of rich traditional knowledge, the natives of Chhattisgarh are having. Common and popular names of Gorakhmundi (Sphaeranthus indicus) around the world. Languages/Regions/Counties Names 1) Arabic Kamazariyus, Kamdaryus 2) Bengal Chagulnadi, Ghorkmundi, Murmuriya 3) Gujarati Bodiokalara, Mundi 4) Hindi Gorakhmundi, Mundi 5) Persian Randar u mmi talkha 6) Marathi Barasavadi 7) Malyalam Adakkamanian, Attakkamanni 8) Sanskrit Aruna, Bhikshu, Bhukadambika, Bhukanda, Kumbhala, Chhitagranthika, Lotani, Lochani, Mundi, Mahamundi, Tapadhana 9) Sinhalese Etmadamahana, Mudamahana 10) Tamil Kottakkarandai 11) Telugu Bodasoram, Bodatarapu 12) Urdu Kamdaryus, Mundi 13) Uriya Buikadam, Murisa When I was studying Agriculture, I was told by my weed expert that Blumea lacera is an obnoxious weed which completes with upland rabi crops for light, moisture and nutrients and lowers the final yield. I was always attracted toward this so-called weed because of its typical camphorous smell. During my student life, I have accidently discovered a beetle feeding on this plant. After concerning the scientific literatures, I have found that this beetle is not reported in Blumea. Since then I am continuously studying the different aspects of this herb. During allelopathic studies, I have discovered the beneficial effects of this so-called weed on upland crop. For natives of Chhattisgarh also Blumea is not a weed. Common people particularly the farmers collect this herb from crop fields, dry it and sell it to local herb buyers. The local buyers sell it to national market. Unfortunately, common people are not aware of its unique medicinal properties, this is the reason they sell it at very low rates. In interior dense forests of Chhattisgarh, where scarcity of table salt exists, the tribes exchange many such herbs with table salt. The traditional healers are aware of medicinal properties of this herb, and they use it very frequently. In case of acute Asthmatic attack the patients are advised to inhale the fumes of dried Blumea leaves. Being on Asthma patient, I have experienced and benefited with these fumes. For regular use, healers recommend to prepare herbal cigarette using this herb in combination of other herbs. In Chhattisgarh, Blumea occurs between August to April. The leaves collected before flowering is considered best. Very young leaves are not preferred. According to traditional healers insect (Blumea leaf beetle Chrysolina madrasae) infested Blumea leaves are more beneficial as compared to unaffected leaves. I think scientific investigation on this aspect is necessary. Blumea found on wastelands are considered best as compared to Blumea found in crop fields. In many parts of India, Blumea is used as fly repellent, for the treatment of piles and diseases of mouth. In scientific literatures, I have found this botanical description about this herb. Blumea is an annual herb with a strong odour of turpentine (as mentioned earlier). Stem erect, height up to 0.9 meters. The color of stem is ash colored, densely glandular and pubescent. Lower leaves are petioled, upper leaves are subsessile, finely silky pubescent on both sides. Many flower heads, yellow involucral bracts densely silky-villous, inner bracts with green midrib pappus white, Fruits achene. Flowering time in Indian conditions is between January to April. Blumea is locally known as Kukurmutta, Kukronda, or Kukkurchedi. In many parts of India, it is known as Janglimuli. Blumea grow as weed in plains of India. In hilly regions, many drug manufacturing companies cultivated this herb to prepare drugs. Blumea is one of the frequently used ingredients in Indian systems of medicine. In Homoeopathic system of medicine, Blumea holds a reputed position. During my visit to Jagdalpur city of Chhattisgarh. I have observed that some people are collecting herbs grown along with railway track. Curiously I approached to them. They informed me these herbs are for the traditional healers of Machkot forest area. I have decided to visit these healers. The healers of this area are specialized in bone setting and treatment of respiratory diseases. After long discussions, I have got the information regarding Arusa (or Adusa) .The traditional healers are using this herb for the treatment of chronic Asthma. Arusa is known as Vasa or Vasak in Sanskrit and is a reputed drug for Asthma mentioned in Ayurveda. I felt proud to see that the traditional healers are still using this herb. In Ambikapur district (The Northern hilly region of Chhattisgarh) I have found dense but isolated patches of this useful herb, but surprisingly the traditional healers are not using it. This is the reason its area is increasing in this part. The scientific name of Arusa is Adhatoda vasica and it belongs to Acanthaceae family. It is an evergreen, gregarious, stiff, perennial shrub. The height varies between 1.2 to 6.0 meters. Leaves elliptic - lanceolate or ovate lanceolate, hairy, light green above and dark green below. Flowers large white, with red or yellow barred throat, in spikes with large bract. Fruit clavate. Seeds globular or subarbicular, rugose. The traditional healers use the leaf decoction frequently as compared to fresh juice. Decoction is prepared by using indigenous methods. The Ayurvedic practitioners in nearby big cities prefer decoction of tribal origin, although many branded products are available in market. In branded products the extracts are used instead of whole plant part. According to Ayurvedic practitioners, this is the possible reason for poor effectiveness of these branded products. Like Blumea leaves, Arusa is also a part of Herbal cigarette. It also repels flies and leaves are used to save clothes and stored grains from harmful insects and mites. The whole plant of Arusa is used to treat common diseases. You will be surprised to know that many traditional healers use Rice pest Greenleaf hopper (Nephotettix nigropictus) for the treatment of Asthma. Use of Green leaf hopper (dried) in increasing the efficacy of Blumea is most popular among traditional healers. Green leaf hopper is a serious pest of rice and Chhattisgarh is known as "Rice bowl of India". In many Herbal cigarettes, I have found bodies of Green leaf hopper used as ingredient. During my visits to dense forests of Chhattisgarh, I have noted the increasing infestation of obnoxious weed Parthenium hysterophorus. The pollens of this weed are responsible for many types of serious and complicated respiratory diseases. According to the traditional healers, Parthenium is becoming a curse for natural biodiversity. They are aware of this allergy causing alien plant. According to them, Parthenium is one of the factors responsible for increasing number of Asthmatic patients in Chhattisgarh. Many traditional healers have started experiments with this new herb. They have found it effective against many common problems. This is a positive sign. In Homoeopathy the drug Parthenium hysterophrous is used to treat the symptoms produced by Parthenium in nature. Many traditional healers believe that Parthenium leaves may be used for curing the asthma but there experiments are in progress and they have yet not reached to any conclusion. "Queensland Asthma weed" Euphorbia hirta (Locally known as Duddhi) is found in abundant in Chhattisgarh both in tribal and urban belt as weed. It is one of the reputed and known herbs used for Asthma. Unfortunately, most of the traditional healers are not aware of its unique medicinal properties. And those knowing are not using it. They are using it for other diseases. Gorakhmundi (Sphaeranthus indicus) is a common winter season weed. According to soil scientists, it is a fertility indicator and always grows on fertile lands. This herb found as weed in almost every corner of the Chhattisgarh. Locally it is known as Gudaria. Every season, several tract loads herb is supplied to fulfill the increasing demand of this herb in national and international drug markets. The local collectors are purchasing this herb at very low rates and like Blumea, supplying it to national and international markets at very high rates. Gorakh mundi herb is one of the favorite herbs for traditional healers. In winter they prefer it. The decoction prepared from whole plant is given to patient for immediate and long lasting effects. I have also tried it and found it very effective. In scientific literatures. I have found this botanical description. Gorakhmundi is a much branched herb about 30 cm high and branches cylinderic, with toothed wings, glandular and hairy. Leaves sessile, decurrent, ovate oblong, glandular hairy, serrate or dentate, flowers compound heads globose ovoid, penduncles with toothed wings, fruits achene, glabrous, stalked. Flowering time in Indian conditions is between November to January. Gorakhmundi is also a popular fish poison in tribal belts of Chhattisgarh. Beside these Mango leaves, Datura leaves, Ginger, Turmeric (with milk), Lavang (Clove) etc. are also used for the treatment of Asthma patients by traditional healers Etymology of some Indian weeds Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved The average English-speaker knows around 50,000 words that represent an astonishing diversity-nearly 25 times more words than there are individual stars visible to the naked eye in the night sky. But looked at from a historical perspective, that diversity becomes more apparent than real. Tracing a word’s development (i.e. etymology) back in time shows that in many cases what are now separate lexical items were formerly one and the same word. The deep prehistory of our language has nurtured little word-seeds that over the millennia have proliferated into widely differentiated of vocabulary” (Ayto, 1992). Like other English words, weeds names also have some meanings. In India, where English or Latin is not a common man’s language, the researchers and students often get confused and become afraid of the scientific names of common weeds. By explaining them the etymology of weed names (especially scientific names), weed science subjects can be made more interesting. With this objective, a study was conducted to list out the etymology of common weeds. In this study, the help of reference literatures viz., English, botany etc. was taken. Total 41 common weeds selected for the study. These weeds include Anagallis arvensis, Cynodon dactylon, Echinochloa colonum, Commelina benghalensis, Bidens pilosa, Celosia sp., Chenopodium album etc. The results of the study are given in Table. 1. The study suggested that there is a strong need of documentation and compilation of origins of not only scientific names but also common names in order to help the researchers and students. Table 1. Etymology of certain weeds : A study WEED NAME ETYMOLOGY 1. Ageratum houstonianum Goatweed (E) Asteraceae (F) Ageratyn Greek not growing old; first applied to some everlasting. Houstonianum name after Wm. Houston. American physison, who collected plants in the Antilles and Mex. Died 1733. 2. Celosia sp. Cox-comb (E) Amaranthaceae (F) Celo-sia: Greek kelos, burned from the colour and character of inflorescence 3. Alternanthera Alligator weed (E) Alternanthaceae (F) Alternanthera: Referring to the sterile Staminodes alternate with the stamens 4. Agrostis Bentgrass (E) Poaceae (F) Agros-tis: Greek field, the place of growth. In Latin couchgrass from its use in this large genus of grasses is derived the name of grass science agrostology 5. Amaranthus Pigweed (E) Amaranthaceae Amarant-Us Greek unfading, in illusion to the unwithering bracts 6. Chenopodium Lambsquerters (E) Chenopodiaceae (F) Chenopo-dium : Greek Goose Foot, from the shape of the leaves of some species 7. Anagallis arvensis Pimpernel (E) Primulaceae (F) Anagal-lis: Greek delightful in English : Poor main’s weather glass (Flowers close at approach of bad weather) .8. Axonopus Poaceae (F) Greek axis foot 9. Bidens Beggar sticks (E) Compositate (F) Bi-dens: Latin two teeth, in reference to the pappus awns 10. Commelina Day flower (E) Commelinaceae (F) Commeli-na: after Kaspar (1667-1731) and Johann (1629- 1698) Commelin, Duthch botanist 11. Corchorus Wild Jute (E) Tilliaceae (F) Cor-chorus : from Greek referring to some reputed medicinal quality; as an eye remedy; of one of the species 12. Echinochloa crus-galli-colonum Barnyard grass (E) Echinoch-;loa; Greek hedge hog grass of the land; crusgallicrus-leg : Gallis-cock 13. Cynodon Bermudagrass (E) Poaceae (F) Cynodon; dog tooth, probably in illusion to the tooth-like sheaths on the stolons 14. Cyperus Nutsedge (E) Cyperaceae (F) Cype-rus : ancient Greek name for these plants 15. Datura Jimson weed (E) Solanoceae (F) Datura Vernacular E Indian name 16. Eleusine Love grass (E) 17. Eragrostis Love grass (E) Poaceae (F) Eragos-tis : Greek combination probably signifying love-grass 18. Eichhornia Water hyacinth (E) Pontederaiceae (F) Eichhor-nia : J.A.F. Eichorn, 1779-1856, Prussion statesman 19. Pontedria Pontederaiceae (F) Pontederia: In honour of G. Pontedera, 1688-1757, Italian botanist 20. Eupatorium Eupatorium (E) Compositae (F) Eupato-rium : named for an ancient king of Pontus , said by Pliny to have employed one of this group of plants in medicine 21. Heliotropium Boraginaceae (F) Heliotropium : heliotropic, turning to the sun 22. Hyoscyamus Solanaceae (F) Hyosey-amus: Greek hog bean, supposed to poison swine 23. Indigofera, Wild Indigo (E) Leguminoseae (F) Indigof-era : Latin indigo bearing 24. Ipomoea Morningglory (E) Convolvulaceae (F) Ipomoea-a : Greek cornbination, worm bindweed, of no particular significance 25. Acalypha Copper leaf (E) Euporbiaceae (F) Acaly-pha old Greek name for nettle 26. Leonotis Labiateae (F) Leono-tis: Greek Lion’s ear, which the flowers are supposed to resemble 27. Milkania Mikania (E) Mika-nia : named for Joseph Gottfried Mikan, 1743-1814, professor of Prague 28. Mimosa Sensitive plant (E) Leguminoseae (E) Mimo-sa Greek a mimic, alluding to the fact that the leaves of some species are sensitive 29. Melilotus Leguminoseae (E) Melilotus : honey-lotus; from the fragrance 30. Oxalis Wood sorrel (E) Oxalidaceae (F) OX-alis Greek for sour 31. Phyllanthus niruri (E) Euphorbiaceae (F) Phyllan-thus : Greek leaf Flower; the flowers of some species apparently born on the leaves 32. Saccharum Poaceae (F) Sac-char-um: from an old Greek word for sugar 33. Sorghum halepensis Johnsongrass (E) Poaceae (F) Sorgh-um from Sorgho, the Italian name for the plant 34. Silybum Compositae (F) Sil-ybum: an old Greek name applied by Dioscrorides to some thistle like plants 35. Typha Cattails (E) Typhaceae (F) Typha; Greek marsh 36. Vernonia Iron weed (E) Verno-nia; named for William vernon, English botanist in late 17 century 37. Veronica Speedwell (E) Scrophularacea(F) Veron-ica; named for St. Veronica 38. Ischaemum Poaceae (F) Ischaimos means staunching blood 39. Setaria Foxtail (E) Poaceae (F) Seta-bristle refer to the involucre of bristles 40. Pennisetum Poaceae (F) Penna-feather, seta - bristle 41. Chrysopogon Poaceae (F) Chrysos means gold and pogon-beard Note: E - English name F - Family References Ayto, J. (1992). Bloomsbury Dictionary of Word Origins, Bloomsbury Publishing Limited, London pp. 583. (Contd.)
Revised Version of Selected Botanical.com Articles Pankaj Oudhia Introductory Note While going through Botanical.com articles I noted spelling mistakes as well as grammatical errors. It is not possible to correct it there. Hence, I decided to present it through pankajoudhia.com. These articles with new information resulted from recent Ethnobotanical surveys are available in pankajoudhia.com. How to cite this research document Oudhia, P. (2010). Revised version of Selected Botanical.com Articles. http://pankajoudhia.com New record of white flowered variety of medicinal weed Asteracantha sp. in Chhattisgarh(India) Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Abstract During the floristic surveys of Chhattisgarh region, white flowered variety of medicinal weed Asteracantha longifolia was observed. The occurrence of this rare variety in Chhattisgarh and to list out the traditional medicinal knowledge about this herb, detailed surveys were conducted. The surveys revealed the high density of this herb in Raipur and Durg districts. Some valuable medicinal properties have also been noted during the surveys. Common Indian Names of Mokhla (Asteracantha sp.) Languages/Regions Names 1) Gujarati Ekhara, Gokhran, Talamkhan 2) Hindi Gokhal Kanta, Gokshura, Talamkhana 3) Kanarese Kalavankabija, Kolavalike 4) Marathi Talimakhana, Vikhara 5) Sanskrit Ikshura, Kak-Kolilaksha, Srigalghant, Vajrakantaka Key-words Asteracantha longifolia; Hygrophila spinosa; white flowered variety; Medicinal weed; weed; Introduction Asteracantha known as Mokhla kanta, is one of the common wasteland weeds in Chhattisgarh. In different Indian languages it is known as Ekharo, Gokhran, Talamkhan (Gujerati), Gokhal Kanta, Gokshura, Talamkhana (Hindi), Kalavanlbija, kolavalike(Canarese),Talimkhana, Vikhara (Marathi), Ikshura,kakkokilaksha,Srigalghant, Vajrokantaka (Sanskrit), Asteracantha longifolia (syn.Hygrophila spinosa) is a stout herb with fasciculate, erect and subquadrangular stem, Leaves are sessile and whorled in verticels of 6 at each node. All leaves are with straight sharp yellow spine in its axil. Flowers are in whorls of 8 (in 4 pairs) at each node. The colour of flower is purple blue (Aghrakar, 1991). During the floristic surveys by the team of Society For Parthenium Management (SOPAM) flowered variety of this useful weed was observed. The occurrence of this rare variety in Chhattisgarh and many parts of India has not been reported in available scientific literatures. Hence, this is a new record of occurrence of white variety of Asteracantha longifolia. To find out the occurrence of this rare variety in different parts of newly born state Chhattisgarh and also to list out the traditional medicinal knowledge about this useful weed, a detailed Ethnobotanical survey was conducted during 2001-2002. Material and Methods The detailed ethno-botanical survey was conducted in the Chhattisgarh region. The study was done in selected districts i.e. Raipur, Bilaspur, Durg, Rajnandgaon, Bastar and Sarguja, From each selected district, two blocks and from each selected block, a random sample of four villages was taken. A proportionate sample of villagers from each selected village was taken to give a total sample size of 1000 respondents. The data were collected with the help of personal interviews according to a well-prepared interview schedule. For knowledge of medicinal uses of Asteracantha, the help of reference literature of Ayurvedic, Homoeopathic, Yunani, Allopathic and other systems of medicine was utilized. The weed was collected during intensive visits to the targeted villages at intervals of 15 days. Visual assessments were made both on crop fields and wastelands. Results and Discussion The survey revealed that Asteracantha specially the white flowered variety of Asteracantha is one of the most frequently used herbs in Chhattisgarh for the treatments of many common ailments. In general, the roots, leaves and seeds of common Asteracantha are used for the preparation of drug but in Chhattisgarh whole plant is mostly used. The study revealed that the natives of Chhattisgarh are having rich traditional medicinal knowledge about this useful weed. In all selected district, significantly higher frequency was observed in Raipur and Durg districts. In Rajnandgaon and Dhamtari districts rare occurrence was observed. It was noted that the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh prefer white flowered variety of Asteracantha as compared to blue purple flowered variety. According to them, white flowered variety is having higher medicinal properties. The scientific studies for confirmation of these observations by traditional healers have yet not been conducted in any part of the world. The survey suggested that there is a strong need to conduct studies on this important aspect. Significantly high density of this weed was noted in swampy places. In paddy growing areas, farmers use this weed as first aid measure to stop bleeding from injured parts. According to traditional healers of areas where white flowered variety of Asteracantha occur, the white flowered variety is more effective not only in bleeding but also in healing the wound quickly. In areas where this white variety not occurs, the traditional healers are dependent on the areas where it occurs in abundance. The traditional healers of these areas purchase this weed during growing season, dry it and use it round the year. The medicinal properties of this white flowered variety have also not been documented in available scientific literatures. The studies on botany of both of these varieties revealed that morphologically both of the species are identical. Only difference is of the colour of flowers. The detailed studies on different important aspects are in progress. Reference Aghrakar, S.P. (1991). Medicinal plants in Bombay Presidency. Pbl. Scientific Publishers, Jodhpur (India). p.32. Traditional medicinal knowledge about common herbs used against venomous creatures snakes and scorpions in Chhattisgarh (India) Research Note - P.Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Chhattisgarh, a newly born state of India, is rich in biodiversity. Many rare and valuable flora and fauna found in abundance. Most of the area is under cover of dense forest and tribals still use traditional systems of medicine to solve their health problems. In these traditional systems of medicine herbs are used in majority. In many parts of the state, traditional healers also use medicinal insects, mites and spiders for treatment. Due to excessive rainfall and dense forests venomous creatures like snakes, scorpions etc. are in abundance and every year thousands of people get affected due to these creatures. Common and popular names of Commelina benghalensis around the world Languages/Regions/Countries Names 1) Bengal Kachradam, Kanchara, Kanchura 2) English Day flower, Dew Flower 3) Gujarati Mhotunshishmuliyun 4) Hindi Kanchara, Kanuraka 5) Marathi Kena 6) Philippines Alibangon, Anagalide azul 7) Sanskrit Kanchata, Marishajalaga, Tanduliya 8) Sind Chura, Kanna, Khanna 9) Sinhalese Deyamainaireya 10) Spanish Ahagalide azul 11) Tamil Kanangakarai 12) Telugu Nirukassuvu, Vennodeviruka The Raigarh district of Chhattisgarh is locally known as "Nag Lok" (Kingdom of snakes). As fan of local healers and as herb expert, I frequently visit to different dense forests of Chhattisgarh to list out the traditional knowledge about common herbs. You will find details of some of these important herbs used against the venomous creatures in the present article. Out of all herbs used against these creatures, the most important in my view is Bharamarmar. In Hindi Bhramar is the fly and Mar means to kill. Few years back I have seen this useful plant in southern part of Chhattisgarh. According to tribals this plant is becoming endangered and less than 1000 plants are remaining in the state. This plant attracts the flies and venomous snakes. Any time of the year, you will find the dead bodies of thousands of flies and hundreds of snakes around this plant even up to depth of 1 to 2 meters. This plant is not a carnivorous plant. Very few people are aware of this unique property of this plant. In available literatures, I have found no such plant similar to Bhramarmar. The traditional healers use the bark of stem against snake bite. It is also used in case of lethal diseases like cancer. I have tried to plant this herb in my home garden but not got success. In my life I have seen only three such plants isolated in different regions of Chhattisgarh. I have noted that when any fly or snake came in effective periphery (3 meters approx) of this plant, their activities and movement slows down and after two or three hours they loss their lives. I personally feel that there is a strong need to document the unique properties of this herb. Leucas aspera, locally known as Guma, or Gumma bhaji, is also an interesting herb. It is found as rainy season wasteland (Sometimes in crop fields also) weed. It is a popular bhaji (potherb) in Chhattisgarh. It is general belief in Chhattisgarh that regular intake of this herb develops a typical smell inside the body which repel away the venomous snakes. The local people particularly the workers engaged in paddy fields prefer this potherb. The traditional healers use this herb both externally and internally in case of snake bite. Sometimes the fresh juice of leaves is pored in ears of the patients. In many parts of Chhattisgarh, where Leucas is not found as weed, local people plant this herb in garden for use in case of emergency. Leucas is also a popular Homoeopathic drug and as Homoeopathic drug it is used against snake bite by practitioners. From dense forests, the trees of Garun phali are common. Garun phali is the pod of this leguminous tree. This pod exactly resembles the body of snake both in size and appearance. In urban areas people use to keep this pod in their houses in order to repel away the snakes. The traditional healers use the seeds of this herb against snake bite as an antidote. Commelina oblique is a common paddy weed in Chhattisgarh. It is locally known as KauaKaini. In North eastern parts of Chhattisgarh its root is used as antidote to snake-bite. In other parts of Chhattisgarh, the traditional healers are not aware of this unique property of the herb. In these parts, field workers use the fresh plant as styptic to stop the bleeding from injured part of the body as first aid measures. Phyllanthus niruri, locally known as Bhui-aonla, is now known as potential hepatotonic in all over world. In Chhattisgarh, it is found as common weed. In many common problems including liver complains, the traditional healers use it very frequently. During my survey to Kanker district of Chhattisgarh state, I have seen the practical use of aqueous extract and decoction of whole plant against snake bite, internally. In case of scorpion bite, the most frequently used herb is Achyranthes aspera (locally known as Onga, Chirchita or Latkana). The whole plant is used against scorpion bite. The juice of plant repels away the scorpion. To demonstrate its effectiveness, local healers smear the juice on hands (up to shoulder) and force the scorpions to walk on their hands. Scorpions hesitate to walk on hands. For Indians, Achyranthes is one of the most valuable herbs. In majority of Hindu homes you will find this herb in home gardens. It is general belief that Achyranthes in home garden repels away all venomous creatures. I have yet not tested the science behind this belief. In case of scorpion bite, the local people immediately apply the fresh housefly (Musca domestica) as first aid measure. It is a common use you will find in the state. Some other herbs used are Cleome viscosa, Euphorbia hirta, Portulaca oleracea, Carthamus tinctorius, Vernonia cinerea (Especially for Scorpion bite), Xanthium strumarium, Ocimum basilicum etc. About The Author Pankaj Oudhia, Herb Expert and Convenor Society for Parthenium Management (SOPAM) 28-A, College Road, Geeta Nagar, Raipur - 492 001 India Email : pankajoudhia@usa.net Homepage : http://www.celestine-india.com/pankajoudhia Copyright © 2001,2002,2003. All Rights Reserved. Quotation from this document should cite and acknowledge the author. For reprint rights, please email Pankaj Oudhia directly for written permission. Traditional medicinal knowledge about common herbs used for diabetes in Chhattisgarh (India) Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Here in urban areas of India, diabetes (locally known as Sugar disease or Madhumeh) is one of the most common disease but in tribal areas diabetes is a new disease but the number of patients are increasing at alarming rates. During my studies at different interior parts of herbal state Chhattisgarh, I have found that in tribal areas, people in touch of urban areas are the main sufferers. Surprisingly I have not seen any tribal in interiors having this ailment. According to traditional healers of the state, urban cultures and foods are responsible for this new disease in their people. Diabetes is well known to these traditional healers since centuries. They are having rich traditional medicinal knowledge about the common herbs useful in curing diabetes. This is the reason that daily hundreds of patients from urban areas visit to these traditional healers for natural and safe treatment. Although it is very difficult to get the information regarding their 'trade secrets' but with the help of my surveys and studies in dense forests of Chhattisgarh, I have gathered some valuable information about these herbs. The Indian names of Gudmar (Gymnema sp.) Languages/Regions/Countries Names 1) Bengal Merasingi 2) Gujarati Dhubli, Mardashingi 3) Hindi Gurmar, Merasingi 4) Kanarese Sannagerasehambu 5) Marathi Kavali, Kalikadori, Vakundi 6) Sanskrit Meshashringi, Medhunashini 7) Tamil Adigam, Cherukurinja 8) Telugu Podapatri 9) English Periploca of the woods, Small Indian Ipecacaunha In their treatments, the tribal healers give more emphasis on improvement of activities of Agnashay (Pancrease). They do not rely on modern test reports. They simply ask the patient to pass urine on some local herbs and tell them to come 4 days later. By observing the behaviour of these herbs, the healers identify the severity of disease and decide the treatments. For different patients, they use different test plants. I have seen the most frequent use of Luffa sp. as test plant. During my three years studies and surveys. I have identified 56 traditional healers specialized in treating diabetes. Out of these fifty six, twenty five have been identified as potential healers. Most of them are over 60 years of age. I have spent two days with each of the potential healer. One most common recommendation I had observed was the use of honey in the regular diet. The traditional healers recommend honey to the sufferers. According to them honey from wild sources is a good tonic for Pancrease. They recommend it with other medicines also. The most frequently used herb for diabetes patients is the wood of tree named Bija. The traditional healers collect the wood from forest and dip it overnight in herbal solution. Next day after drying it in shade, it is given to the patients for regular use. The patients are advised to dip the part of wood in glass of water overnight and next day drink the leachate on an empty stomach. According to traditional healers this leachate is useful for all because it is general tonic specially for patients suffering from diabetes, memory weakness and anaemia. It is also useful for chronic constipation. Bija is found in abundance in Chhattisgarh. After observing miracle effect of this herb. I have gone through scientific literatures and found this information. The scientific name of Bija or Beeja is Pterocarpus marsupium Roxb. It is a tall ever green tree, blaze grey-streaked, then pink and finally red. Its leaflets are 5-7, elliptic - oblong to ovate, coriaceous, 7-13 cm long, obtuse or subacute, often slightly or deeply emarginate, glaucous beneath. Panicles terminals 15-30 cm long. The color of flowers is yellow. Calyx dark brown, pubescent, teeth deltoid, unequal. Corolla color yellow. Pods are orbicular and up to 4 cm in diameter. In Chhattisgarh, it is popularly used for making furniture and agricultural implements. Common and popular names of Bija (Pterocarpus marsupium) around the world. Languages/Regions/Countries Names 1) Arabic Dammul-akhvaine Hindi, Damul akhvaine 2) Bengal Pitsal, Pitshul 3) Kanarese Benga, Honi, Honne, Netra, Bibla, Netturuhonne 4) English Bijasal, Indian kino Tree, Malabar Kino Tree 5) French Kino des Indes, Pterocarpe a bourse 6) Gujarati Bia, Bibla, Bio, Hiradokhana 7) Hindi Banda, Bija, Bijasal, Bijasar, Biya, Hiradokhi, Paisar, Peisar, Piasal, Pitshola 8) Malyalam Carintakara, Malantakara, Venna 9) Marathi Assan, Asana, Bibla, Dhorbenla 10) Persian Khunesiahwashan 11) Sanskrit Bandhukapushpa, Bijaka, Bijavriksha, Mahakutaja, Mahasarja, Pita salaka, Pitashala, Paramayudha, Priyaka, Sauri 12) Sinhalese Gammalu, Gummalo 13) Tamil Asanam, Kani, Pidasaralam, Pidagaragam, Sarudagam, Tamisu, Tannini 14) Telugu Peddagi, Peddegi, Pedegu, Vegisa, Yegi, Vengisa 15) Urdu Damulakhvain 16) Uriya Byasa, Piyasalo Gudmar is another useful herb for patients suffering from diabetes. In many parts of Chhattisgarh Gudmar found in isolated patches. Its common name Gudmar clearly indicates its use. The meaning of Gud is Jaggery, sugar and mar, to kill or destroy. It is used to destroy sugar hence useful in diabetes. Out of 56 traditional healers, I have observed ten traditional healers, all from the Bastar region, are using this herb in combination of other herbs like Chirayata (Correct name Kalmegh) etc, but main constituent is Gudmar. I have seen the common tribal chewing the leaves of Gudmar during their routine visits to nearby forests. The chewing of fresh leaves desensitize the test buds and up to few hours after chewing, you will feel no taste, even sweetest food will feel tasteless. In scientific literatures, I have read some research findings on use of Gudmar for this disease but most of researchers are using only Gudmar. They are ignoring the role of other herbs used by traditional healers in the mixture. The scientific name of Gudmar is Gymnema sylvestris. It is a common herb of Monsoon forests. It is a large woody climber. The herb is much branched and young stem is densely pubescent. Leaves are opposite, ovate, elliptic with rounded or cordate base. Flowers are in Cymes. Fruits are lanceolate, generally single. In Chhattisgarh, the flowering time is April to May. In Ayurveda this herb is mentioned as bitter, acrid, cooling, tonic, alterative, anthelmintic, alexeteric and useful in respiratory troubles, heart - diseases, piles, leucoderma and urinary discharges. Sadaphooli or Sada Suhagan is well known herb in western countries also. It is used for preparing the drug for blood cancer. Although it is not indigenous to Chhattisgarh, but in almost every home you will find this herb in home gardens. It is grown as ornamental plant as it flowers in almost every month of the year. The traditional healers use the fresh flowers for the treatment of diabetes. The patients are advised to swallow this flower daily. The number of flowers depends upon the severity of the disease. In this herb, white and pink colored flowers are found. White flowered variety is preferred by traditional healers. In scientific literatures, I have not found the description of anti-diabetic properties of this herb. The scientific name of Sadaphooli or Sada Suhagan is Catharanthus roseus G. Don (Syn. Vinca rosea Linn.; Vinca pusilla Hook f.; Lochnera rosea (Linn.) R.). The family is Apocynaceae. It is an erect, slightly smelling perennial herb. Leaves are oval, obovate or oblong-elliptic, acute and glassy. Flowers are fragrant, pinkish (var. roseus) or white (var. alba). Flowers are arranged in terminal or axillary cymose clusters. Fruits are hairy and up to 3cm long. During my visit to traditional healer of Bastar, I have observed a special role of native species of red fire ants in identification of diabetic patient. According to this traditional healer this ant bite (when disturbed) only to healthy people, never bite (even forcefully) to diabetic patient. This is a unique diagnostic method I have never seen in my life. I have collected the specimen and sent to the experts for identification. Results are awaited. The other useful herbs are Karela (grown as vegetable), Jamun (Common fruit, locally known as Chirai Jam), Mango (Locally known as Aam), Chickpea (Cultivated as rabi crop) etc. I have collected the list of patients from these traditional healers and met the patients to verify the healer's claim. I have found most of them healthy and free of disease. They have stopped taking Allopathic Medicines and recommending relatives to visit to the traditional healers. I personally feel that there is a strong need to document and utilize this valuable knowledge for benefit of humanity. Traditional medicinal knowledge about common herbs used for asthma in Chhattisgarh, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Although the number of government dispensaries (based on Allopathy System of Medicine) is increasing in tribal regions of Chhattisgarh, but there are still many traditional healers using traditional system of medicine. Last year I have collected the list of over two thousand traditional healers specialized in treatment of common ailments to chronic diseases. Surprisingly I have noted that majority of traditional healers are specialized in sex related diseases and Asthma. I will describe the herbs used in sex related disease in next article. In present article, I am trying to describe the common herbs used for Asthma in Chhattisgarh, India. I have collected this information by frequent visits to these traditional healers. I am presenting these miracle herbs in front of world to show the glimpses of rich traditional knowledge, the natives of Chhattisgarh are having. Common and popular names of Gorakhmundi (Sphaeranthus indicus) around the world. Languages/Regions/Counties Names 1) Arabic Kamazariyus, Kamdaryus 2) Bengal Chagulnadi, Ghorkmundi, Murmuriya 3) Gujarati Bodiokalara, Mundi 4) Hindi Gorakhmundi, Mundi 5) Persian Randar u mmi talkha 6) Marathi Barasavadi 7) Malyalam Adakkamanian, Attakkamanni 8) Sanskrit Aruna, Bhikshu, Bhukadambika, Bhukanda, Kumbhala, Chhitagranthika, Lotani, Lochani, Mundi, Mahamundi, Tapadhana 9) Sinhalese Etmadamahana, Mudamahana 10) Tamil Kottakkarandai 11) Telugu Bodasoram, Bodatarapu 12) Urdu Kamdaryus, Mundi 13) Uriya Buikadam, Murisa When I was studying Agriculture, I was told by my weed expert that Blumea lacera is an obnoxious weed which completes with upland rabi crops for light, moisture and nutrients and lowers the final yield. I was always attracted toward this so-called weed because of its typical camphorous smell. During my student life, I have accidently discovered a beetle feeding on this plant. After concerning the scientific literatures, I have found that this beetle is not reported in Blumea. Since then I am continuously studying the different aspects of this herb. During allelopathic studies, I have discovered the beneficial effects of this so-called weed on upland crop. For natives of Chhattisgarh also Blumea is not a weed. Common people particularly the farmers collect this herb from crop fields, dry it and sell it to local herb buyers. The local buyers sell it to national market. Unfortunately, common people are not aware of its unique medicinal properties, this is the reason they sell it at very low rates. In interior dense forests of Chhattisgarh, where scarcity of table salt exists, the tribes exchange many such herbs with table salt. The traditional healers are aware of medicinal properties of this herb, and they use it very frequently. In case of acute Asthmatic attack the patients are advised to inhale the fumes of dried Blumea leaves. Being on Asthma patient, I have experienced and benefited with these fumes. For regular use, healers recommend to prepare herbal cigarette using this herb in combination of other herbs. In Chhattisgarh, Blumea occurs between August to April. The leaves collected before flowering is considered best. Very young leaves are not preferred. According to traditional healers insect (Blumea leaf beetle Chrysolina madrasae) infested Blumea leaves are more beneficial as compared to unaffected leaves. I think scientific investigation on this aspect is necessary. Blumea found on wastelands are considered best as compared to Blumea found in crop fields. In many parts of India, Blumea is used as fly repellent, for the treatment of piles and diseases of mouth. In scientific literatures, I have found this botanical description about this herb. Blumea is an annual herb with a strong odour of turpentine (as mentioned earlier). Stem erect, height up to 0.9 meters. The color of stem is ash colored, densely glandular and pubescent. Lower leaves are petioled, upper leaves are subsessile, finely silky pubescent on both sides. Many flower heads, yellow involucral bracts densely silky-villous, inner bracts with green midrib pappus white, Fruits achene. Flowering time in Indian conditions is between January to April. Blumea is locally known as Kukurmutta, Kukronda, or Kukkurchedi. In many parts of India, it is known as Janglimuli. Blumea grow as weed in plains of India. In hilly regions, many drug manufacturing companies cultivated this herb to prepare drugs. Blumea is one of the frequently used ingredients in Indian systems of medicine. In Homoeopathic system of medicine, Blumea holds a reputed position. During my visit to Jagdalpur city of Chhattisgarh. I have observed that some people are collecting herbs grown along with railway track. Curiously I approached to them. They informed me these herbs are for the traditional healers of Machkot forest area. I have decided to visit these healers. The healers of this area are specialized in bone setting and treatment of respiratory diseases. After long discussions, I have got the information regarding Arusa (or Adusa) .The traditional healers are using this herb for the treatment of chronic Asthma. Arusa is known as Vasa or Vasak in Sanskrit and is a reputed drug for Asthma mentioned in Ayurveda. I felt proud to see that the traditional healers are still using this herb. In Ambikapur district (The Northern hilly region of Chhattisgarh) I have found dense but isolated patches of this useful herb, but surprisingly the traditional healers are not using it. This is the reason its area is increasing in this part. The scientific name of Arusa is Adhatoda vasica and it belongs to Acanthaceae family. It is an evergreen, gregarious, stiff, perennial shrub. The height varies between 1.2 to 6.0 meters. Leaves elliptic - lanceolate or ovate lanceolate, hairy, light green above and dark green below. Flowers large white, with red or yellow barred throat, in spikes with large bract. Fruit clavate. Seeds globular or subarbicular, rugose. The traditional healers use the leaf decoction frequently as compared to fresh juice. Decoction is prepared by using indigenous methods. The Ayurvedic practitioners in nearby big cities prefer decoction of tribal origin, although many branded products are available in market. In branded products the extracts are used instead of whole plant part. According to Ayurvedic practitioners, this is the possible reason for poor effectiveness of these branded products. Like Blumea leaves, Arusa is also a part of Herbal cigarette. It also repels flies and leaves are used to save clothes and stored grains from harmful insects and mites. The whole plant of Arusa is used to treat common diseases. You will be surprised to know that many traditional healers use Rice pest Greenleaf hopper (Nephotettix nigropictus) for the treatment of Asthma. Use of Green leaf hopper (dried) in increasing the efficacy of Blumea is most popular among traditional healers. Green leaf hopper is a serious pest of rice and Chhattisgarh is known as "Rice bowl of India". In many Herbal cigarettes, I have found bodies of Green leaf hopper used as ingredient. During my visits to dense forests of Chhattisgarh, I have noted the increasing infestation of obnoxious weed Parthenium hysterophorus. The pollens of this weed are responsible for many types of serious and complicated respiratory diseases. According to the traditional healers, Parthenium is becoming a curse for natural biodiversity. They are aware of this allergy causing alien plant. According to them, Parthenium is one of the factors responsible for increasing number of Asthmatic patients in Chhattisgarh. Many traditional healers have started experiments with this new herb. They have found it effective against many common problems. This is a positive sign. In Homoeopathy the drug Parthenium hysterophrous is used to treat the symptoms produced by Parthenium in nature. Many traditional healers believe that Parthenium leaves may be used for curing the asthma but there experiments are in progress and they have yet not reached to any conclusion. "Queensland Asthma weed" Euphorbia hirta (Locally known as Duddhi) is found in abundant in Chhattisgarh both in tribal and urban belt as weed. It is one of the reputed and known herbs used for Asthma. Unfortunately, most of the traditional healers are not aware of its unique medicinal properties. And those knowing are not using it. They are using it for other diseases. Gorakhmundi (Sphaeranthus indicus) is a common winter season weed. According to soil scientists, it is a fertility indicator and always grows on fertile lands. This herb found as weed in almost every corner of the Chhattisgarh. Locally it is known as Gudaria. Every season, several tract loads herb is supplied to fulfill the increasing demand of this herb in national and international drug markets. The local collectors are purchasing this herb at very low rates and like Blumea, supplying it to national and international markets at very high rates. Gorakh mundi herb is one of the favorite herbs for traditional healers. In winter they prefer it. The decoction prepared from whole plant is given to patient for immediate and long lasting effects. I have also tried it and found it very effective. In scientific literatures. I have found this botanical description. Gorakhmundi is a much branched herb about 30 cm high and branches cylinderic, with toothed wings, glandular and hairy. Leaves sessile, decurrent, ovate oblong, glandular hairy, serrate or dentate, flowers compound heads globose ovoid, penduncles with toothed wings, fruits achene, glabrous, stalked. Flowering time in Indian conditions is between November to January. Gorakhmundi is also a popular fish poison in tribal belts of Chhattisgarh. Beside these Mango leaves, Datura leaves, Ginger, Turmeric (with milk), Lavang (Clove) etc. are also used for the treatment of Asthma patients by traditional healers Etymology of some Indian weeds Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved The average English-speaker knows around 50,000 words that represent an astonishing diversity-nearly 25 times more words than there are individual stars visible to the naked eye in the night sky. But looked at from a historical perspective, that diversity becomes more apparent than real. Tracing a word’s development (i.e. etymology) back in time shows that in many cases what are now separate lexical items were formerly one and the same word. The deep prehistory of our language has nurtured little word-seeds that over the millennia have proliferated into widely differentiated of vocabulary” (Ayto, 1992). Like other English words, weeds names also have some meanings. In India, where English or Latin is not a common man’s language, the researchers and students often get confused and become afraid of the scientific names of common weeds. By explaining them the etymology of weed names (especially scientific names), weed science subjects can be made more interesting. With this objective, a study was conducted to list out the etymology of common weeds. In this study, the help of reference literatures viz., English, botany etc. was taken. Total 41 common weeds selected for the study. These weeds include Anagallis arvensis, Cynodon dactylon, Echinochloa colonum, Commelina benghalensis, Bidens pilosa, Celosia sp., Chenopodium album etc. The results of the study are given in Table. 1. The study suggested that there is a strong need of documentation and compilation of origins of not only scientific names but also common names in order to help the researchers and students. Table 1. Etymology of certain weeds : A study WEED NAME ETYMOLOGY 1. Ageratum houstonianum Goatweed (E) Asteraceae (F) Ageratyn Greek not growing old; first applied to some everlasting. Houstonianum name after Wm. Houston. American physison, who collected plants in the Antilles and Mex. Died 1733. 2. Celosia sp. Cox-comb (E) Amaranthaceae (F) Celo-sia: Greek kelos, burned from the colour and character of inflorescence 3. Alternanthera Alligator weed (E) Alternanthaceae (F) Alternanthera: Referring to the sterile Staminodes alternate with the stamens 4. Agrostis Bentgrass (E) Poaceae (F) Agros-tis: Greek field, the place of growth. In Latin couchgrass from its use in this large genus of grasses is derived the name of grass science agrostology 5. Amaranthus Pigweed (E) Amaranthaceae Amarant-Us Greek unfading, in illusion to the unwithering bracts 6. Chenopodium Lambsquerters (E) Chenopodiaceae (F) Chenopo-dium : Greek Goose Foot, from the shape of the leaves of some species 7. Anagallis arvensis Pimpernel (E) Primulaceae (F) Anagal-lis: Greek delightful in English : Poor main’s weather glass (Flowers close at approach of bad weather) .8. Axonopus Poaceae (F) Greek axis foot 9. Bidens Beggar sticks (E) Compositate (F) Bi-dens: Latin two teeth, in reference to the pappus awns 10. Commelina Day flower (E) Commelinaceae (F) Commeli-na: after Kaspar (1667-1731) and Johann (1629- 1698) Commelin, Duthch botanist 11. Corchorus Wild Jute (E) Tilliaceae (F) Cor-chorus : from Greek referring to some reputed medicinal quality; as an eye remedy; of one of the species 12. Echinochloa crus-galli-colonum Barnyard grass (E) Echinoch-;loa; Greek hedge hog grass of the land; crusgallicrus-leg : Gallis-cock 13. Cynodon Bermudagrass (E) Poaceae (F) Cynodon; dog tooth, probably in illusion to the tooth-like sheaths on the stolons 14. Cyperus Nutsedge (E) Cyperaceae (F) Cype-rus : ancient Greek name for these plants 15. Datura Jimson weed (E) Solanoceae (F) Datura Vernacular E Indian name 16. Eleusine Love grass (E) 17. Eragrostis Love grass (E) Poaceae (F) Eragos-tis : Greek combination probably signifying love-grass 18. Eichhornia Water hyacinth (E) Pontederaiceae (F) Eichhor-nia : J.A.F. Eichorn, 1779-1856, Prussion statesman 19. Pontedria Pontederaiceae (F) Pontederia: In honour of G. Pontedera, 1688-1757, Italian botanist 20. Eupatorium Eupatorium (E) Compositae (F) Eupato-rium : named for an ancient king of Pontus , said by Pliny to have employed one of this group of plants in medicine 21. Heliotropium Boraginaceae (F) Heliotropium : heliotropic, turning to the sun 22. Hyoscyamus Solanaceae (F) Hyosey-amus: Greek hog bean, supposed to poison swine 23. Indigofera, Wild Indigo (E) Leguminoseae (F) Indigof-era : Latin indigo bearing 24. Ipomoea Morningglory (E) Convolvulaceae (F) Ipomoea-a : Greek cornbination, worm bindweed, of no particular significance 25. Acalypha Copper leaf (E) Euporbiaceae (F) Acaly-pha old Greek name for nettle 26. Leonotis Labiateae (F) Leono-tis: Greek Lion’s ear, which the flowers are supposed to resemble 27. Milkania Mikania (E) Mika-nia : named for Joseph Gottfried Mikan, 1743-1814, professor of Prague 28. Mimosa Sensitive plant (E) Leguminoseae (E) Mimo-sa Greek a mimic, alluding to the fact that the leaves of some species are sensitive 29. Melilotus Leguminoseae (E) Melilotus : honey-lotus; from the fragrance 30. Oxalis Wood sorrel (E) Oxalidaceae (F) OX-alis Greek for sour 31. Phyllanthus niruri (E) Euphorbiaceae (F) Phyllan-thus : Greek leaf Flower; the flowers of some species apparently born on the leaves 32. Saccharum Poaceae (F) Sac-char-um: from an old Greek word for sugar 33. Sorghum halepensis Johnsongrass (E) Poaceae (F) Sorgh-um from Sorgho, the Italian name for the plant 34. Silybum Compositae (F) Sil-ybum: an old Greek name applied by Dioscrorides to some thistle like plants 35. Typha Cattails (E) Typhaceae (F) Typha; Greek marsh 36. Vernonia Iron weed (E) Verno-nia; named for William vernon, English botanist in late 17 century 37. Veronica Speedwell (E) Scrophularacea(F) Veron-ica; named for St. Veronica 38. Ischaemum Poaceae (F) Ischaimos means staunching blood 39. Setaria Foxtail (E) Poaceae (F) Seta-bristle refer to the involucre of bristles 40. Pennisetum Poaceae (F) Penna-feather, seta - bristle 41. Chrysopogon Poaceae (F) Chrysos means gold and pogon-beard Note: E - English name F - Family References Ayto, J. (1992). Bloomsbury Dictionary of Word Origins, Bloomsbury Publishing Limited, London pp. 583. (Contd.)
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