Pankaj Oudhia's Research Documents on Biodiversity and Traditional Healing. Part-9

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Traditional Medicinal Knowledge about common herbs used in treatment of Pathri (Renal Calculi) in Chhattisgarh, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved A few decades back, Kulthi was one of the most popular crops in tribal belts of Chhattisgarh. Kulthi is still under cultivation in remote areas. But the area under this useful pulse crop is decreasing very rapidly in the state. For farmers, Kulthi is still a beneficial crop but farmers are now under pressure of HYV (High Yielding Varieties) programme. Due to intensive extension programmes by the Agriculture Department of state, the new high yielding crops are taking the place of traditional crops. Every year regional research stations release two to three new varieties claiming that these are high yielding as well as resistant against diseases and insects. These new crops and high yielding varieties are increasing the consumption of chemical inputs like fertilizers, insecticides, fungicides etc. Due to over use of fertilizers, the land and water are loosing its natural properties and due to excessive use of agrochemicals the insects and pathogens are becoming more stronger day by day. You will find the well established offices of almost every multinationals working in the field of agriculture, in the state. As you know, Chhattisgarh is the rice bowl of India. According to the rice experts, Chhattisgarh is one of the origins of rice species. Common Indian Names of Poi (Basella rubra) Languages/Regions Names 1) Gujarati Pothinivd, Valchi bhaji 2) Hindi Poi, Mayalki Bhaji, Lalbachala 3) Kanarese Kempubasale 4) Malyalam Mayalu, Velbondi 5) Sanskrit Kalamni, Pichila, Putika, Vrischikapriya A few decades back Dr. Richaria, an eminent rice scientist, surveyed and collected over 20,000 different types of wild and cultivated rice species from different corners of Chhattisgarh. He devoted his life for this great work. At present, the only Agricultural university, in the state, Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur, is maintaining this huge germplasm. Due to this huge and unique collection, Chhattisgarh holds a reputed position in world bio diversity map. During my ethnomedico surveys in different parts of the state, I have observed that many farmers are still cultivating the traditional crops and varieties. Many traditional healers aware of the medicinal uses of these crops are also cultivating it in order to fulfill their requirement. It was good observation that many old farmers are growing new High Yielding varieties and new crops to sell it in market and cultivating traditional crops for their own consumption. You will be surprised to know that now when majority of farmers are adopting HYV and new crops, suddenly the government have found that the traditional crops are best, and today, the whole machinery is engaged in convincing the farmers to restart the cultivation of traditional crops and varieties. The farmers are in dilemma. The traditional healers specialized in the treatment of Pathri, grow Kulthi crop for their patients. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh, disclosed the bare fact that as the area under this crop is reducing, the number of patients suffering from this trouble is increasing significantly. According to them, in early days Kulthi as Dal (Pulse) is an integral part of daily diet and from generations, the healers are aware that regular use of this Dal prevents the formation of Pathri in kidney. Now, in place of Kulthi Dal, other Dals viz. Arhar (Cajanus cajan), Moong (Vigna radiata), Urd (Vigna mungo) etc. are in use. Unfortunately, these Dals are not useful in Pathri problem. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh, use Kulthi herb in different ways to treat the Pathri trouble. The use of Kulthi in treatment of Pathri trouble is mentioned in reference literatures. The modern investigation have also proved its efficiency and efficacy against Pathri. In reference literature, the use of seeds is described in detail but in Chhattisgarh, whole herb and individual parts, both are used to treat Pathri trouble. The traditional healers of Bastar region, prepare a Kadha (Decoction)from fresh herb of Kulthi. Kulthi herb before flowering is preferred. On the basis of severity, the dose is decided by the traditional healers. In general, One tola (One tola = 11.6gms) decoction is given to the patients. According to the healers, a single dose is enough to flush out the Pathri but in complicated cases, they advise to repeat the doses till relief. The traditional healers of Durg region, recommend the use of Kulthi seeds and Mooli seeds. Mooli (Raphanus sativus; family : Crucifereae) is under cultivation in this region as vegetable crop. The Kulthi and Mooli seeds are boiled in water and when one third part of total amount en, remains in pot, the patients are advised to drink this solution in order to get quick relief. According to the traditional healers, in absence of Mooli seeds, one can use the seeds of Shaljam (Brassica rapa; family: Cruciferae). The traditional healers from Kulthi growing region, use the fresh root juice of Kulthi herb to treat Pathri. The patients are advised to take this juice daily morning till relief. Many healers use the combination of Mulethi roots (Glycyrrhiza glabra; Family : Papilionaceae), Kulthi seeds and Saunf (Foeniculum vulgare; Family : Umbelliferae), for preparation of decoction and to make it tasty, they add salt and Ghee. The traditional healer of Gunderdehi, told me that there are many methods but according to him, alone Kulthi is capable of treating this trouble successfully. In my surveys, I have noted over 30 formulations in which different parts of Kulthi are used as main and secondary ingredients. I personally feel that there is a tremendous scope in this field and after systematic evaluation of all these combinations, the potential combination can be identified easily. The traditional healer of Bastar, Mr. Vishal Bharat, disclosed the fact that all these combinations are not for same types of patients. According to him, basically the Tasir (the nature) of Kulthi is hot and he has observed that regular use of Kulthi seeds as Dal can cause harmful effects in human body. In order to reduce or eliminate the harmful effects of Kulthi, different combinations have been developed. He instructed me to conduct a detailed study on this important aspect. He said that the combinations have came from forefathers but unfortunately the details regarding when and how, these combinations must be used have not came. Mr. Bharat showed confidence in my surveys and said that do not be late, because we are loosing the valuable knowledge every day inform of the departure of senior healers from this world. Mr. Vishal Bharat was very true. Unfortunately, on 9th of Novmeber, 2002, this legend passed away without transferring many valuable traditional knowledge to his next generation . Although Kulthi is not under cultivation in large area but the buyers and traders of nearby metros are aware of cultivation. Every year, they supply many truck loads of Kulthi seeds to the healers of not only India but also to neighbouring countries. Before describing the traditional medicinal knowledge related to other herbs, I would like to mention the medicinal properties of Kulthi seeds described in reference literatures. According to Ayurveda, seed is bitter, acrid, hot (one must avoid its use during hot summers), dry , astringent to bowels, fattening, anthelmintic, antipyretic and useful in treatment of Pathari, tumours, asthma, bronchitis, hiccup, urinary discharges, heart-troubles, disease of the brain and eyes; intestinal colic, piles, leucoderma, inflammation, liver troubles etc. In different parts of India, this herb is used to treat many other diseases. In Chhattisgarh, the traditional healers use this herb in treatment of piles, acidity, and blood disorders mainly. I will describe these uses in detail in my future articles. Barun is a common tree found in natural forests of the state. It is also planted as ornamental tree in home gardens. For traditional healers of Chhattisgarh , it is valuable herb for the treatment of Pathri troubles. The traditional healers use the bark of Barun tree for this purpose. The decoction and aqueous extract both are used. The traditional healers told me that regular intake of decoction ueous extract can flush out all the Pathris within a week. Many healers use the combination of roots and barks in order to make the decoction more strong. I am describing its botany in short. Barun is small tree with full foliage during anthesis; Petiole 5- 12 cm long, with distinct glands ; Leaflets thinly coriaceous, the lateral ones asymmetric, with a short acute acumen, midrib reddish; nerves 5-10 pairs, reticulation district; Inflorescence bearing 10-40 flowers; pedicels 3.5-7cm long petals clawed, the limb; Fruits globose, rough with minute flat papillae; seeds smooth and dull brown . Flowering time in Chhattisgarh condition varies between March to July. Although Gokhru is not common herb in Chhattisgarh, but the traditional healers of state are aware of its use in case of Pathri troubles. I have observed its natural occurrence in Mahanadi (Nadi-river) region. During my visit to Rajkot (Gujrat) region. I got an opportunity to meet the traditional healer specialized in the treatment of Pathri. He informed me that Gokhru is best remedy in Pathri. He gives the powder of whole herb with pure honey and instruct his patients to add sheep’s milk in their daily food. The traditional Healers of Chhattisgarh using Gokhru for treatment, purchase it from local shops. In Chhattisgarh, many herbs are known as Gokhru. Besides Gokhru Tribulus terrestris), the sellers sell Acanthospermum hispidum and Xanthium strumarium in name of Gokhru. This is the reason the traditional healers prefer to buy whole herb in place of powdered herb. It is common belief in Chhattisgarh, that regular intake of neem leaf juice at specific times, prevents the formation of Pathri. During transitional periods, the natives take a tea spoonful juice of Neem up to 15 days. Besides preventing the Pathri formation, the intake of juice helps the patients or natives in many ways. During winter season, the natives collect the petals of Chrysanthemum indicum and dry it in shade. These dried petals are given to persons having the tendency of Pathri formation. To make it tasty, some sugar is also added in it. The traditional healers are aware of this use. According to them , after flushing out the stones (Pathri) it is necessary to take the preventive regularly. In general, the healers advise the patients to change their food habits, avoid calcium rich food material and drink more and more water. Many Ayurveda practitioners of state, are popular in treatment of Pathri. Dr. Jaya Bajpai of Raipur city, is one of them. She is among few qualified Ayurveda practitioners , practicing Ayurveda after completion of studies. Like traditional healers, these Ayurveda practioner are also facing the problems in getting the genuine herbs. During my ethnomedico surveys in Mandir Hasaud region, I observed the use of the ash of Til herb, as preventive. Til (Sesamum indicum) is popular crop in Chhattisgarh. The traditional healer collects the herb from fields and burn it (after drying). He suggests his patients to take the ash with vinegar (Sirka) in order to prevent the formation of Pathri again. It is common belief in Chhattisgarh that use of Poi and Jangli Chaulai Bhaji as vegetable prevents the formation of Pathri and also helps in flushing it out. Poi is favorite vegetable among Bengali community of Chhattisgarh. It is not grown commercially but you will found it in home gardens. The scientific name of Poi is Basella rubra (family : Chenopodiaceae). I am describing its botany in short. It is a short perennial herb with very long and slender stem; Leaves variable, broadly ovate, thick, entire, with cordate base; Flowers white or red, sessile few, in lax pedunculate spikes; perianth fleshy 5-fid, segments elliptic obtuse; Fruits red, white or black and size of a pea. In reference literatures the medicinal properties of Poi are described. According to Ayurveda, Poi is acrid, sweetish, heating, soporific, narcotic, aphrodisiac, laxative and fattening and useful in biliousness, leprosy, dysentery, and ulcers. Its use in prevention of Pathri formation is not mentioned in reference literatures. For the prevention of Pathri, the natives use Poi alone or in combination with Jangli Chaulai. Jangli Chaulai is a common wasteland plant in Chhattisgarh. Its scientific name is Amaranthus spinosus (Family : Amaranthaceae). It is an erect glabrous herb up to 60 cm high, often reddish branches grooved with sharp divaricate spines in the leaf-axil, Leaves ovate, lanceolate, obtuse and entire; Flowers in terminal and axillary dense spikes, numerous, unisexual; male calyx acute, bristles pointed; Female calyx oblong, obtuse, apiculate; Fruits capsule, long, ovoid, thickened at the top and rugose. According to Ayurveda, it is cooling, digestive alexiteric, purgative, diuretic, antipyretic, stomachic and useful in blood diseases, biliousness, hallucination, rat-bite, piles, bronchitis, leprosy and leucorrhoea. Like Poi, its use in prevention of Pathri formation is not reported. I personally feel that there is a strong need for scientific investigation. The use of Mooli leaves and its juice in case of Pathari is mentioned in reference literatures. Most of the traditional healers specialized in treatment of this trouble recommend their patient to take regularly the fresh leaf juice of Mooli in order to prevent the attack and also to flush out Pathri. aditional healer of Rajnandgaon region, advises the Patients suffering from intensive pain due to Pathri formation, to boil the dried leaves of Til, Mooli ,Shaljam and Blumea in water and allow the fumes directly to affected part, for quick relief. Sometimes the healers add the leaves of Nirgundi (Vitex negundo) in this combination to increase its efficacy. My surveys focused on herbs are still in progress. I will write more after completion of surveys. Thank you very much for reading this article. Interactions with the traditional healers of Bastar region, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved One of my Gurus, the legend Mr. Vishal Bharat passed away on 9th November 2002. On the Terhavi (Thirteenth day after the day of his departure), I visited the Jagdalpur city to pay homage to him. I passed my whole day in his home remembering my good days with him. As he was well known person in Bastar region, many traditional healers came to attend the Terhavi,. He was the Guru of many traditional healers of Bastar. During my visit I got opportunity to discuss the herbs and to share my knowledge with the traditional healers. We discussed continuously over eight hours during lunch and dinner also. I have collected a lot of information from these traditional healers. With the help of this article, I am describing some of the promising uses of common herbs used by these traditional healers in treatment of many common diseases. We were twenty in number and during discussion all of us talked profusely and openly, on all aspects. Common and popular names of Viola odorata around the world. Languages/Regions/Countries Names 1) Arabic Banafsaj, Benephig 2) Bengal Banafsha, Banosa 3) Danish Martzfioler 4) Dutch Tamme viol 5) Egypt Benefshig 6) English Apple-leaf, Bairnwort, Blue violet, March violet 7) French Fleur de mars, Violier commun 8) German Blauoesken, Blauvoegschen, Blauvoelken 9) Hindi Banafshah 10) Hungarian Ibolya 11) Italian Mammola, Viola 12) Marathi Bagabanosa 13) Polish Tamaioasa, Toporas 14) Russian Packutchaya fialka 15) Sanskrit Jvarapaha, Vanapsa 16) Spanish Violeta, Violeta de olor 17) Swedish Aekta fioler 18) Urdu Banafshah We started our discussion from common medicinal herb Kuchla. The healers told that they use the seeds for the treatment of bleeding piles. The healers described different methods of use. They are using this herb both internally and externally to cure the piles. The traditional healer of Machkot forest area told that he uses the Kuchla seeds with ghee. This mixture is applied externally on piles in order to get quick relief from pain. Many healers added that with Kuchla seeds, Kukronda (Blumea lacera) seeds can be used for better results. The traditional healer of Dantewada region added that with Kuchla seeds one can use the Kuchla roots and in place of ghee, oil can be used. He told that he was not aware of the use of Blumea seeds in this combination and he assured to try this in his routine practice. Many healers use Kuchla with sugar and this mixture is given to the patients internally in order to get complete cure. Most of the healers were agree with this combination but they discussed a lot on the question of dose. All of them were aware of poisonous nature of Kuchla and they told me that they use special method to purify the seeds. According to them, one must take special care during the use of Kuchla and only pure Kuchla should be given to the patients. To purify the Kuchla seeds, they wash the seeds thoroughly in running water. After washing seeds are dried partially in shady places and partially dried seeds are boiled in cow’s milk. The healers never use the Buffalo’s milk for this purpose. After boiling, the soften seeds are again washed in water and with the help of sharp knife, the minute cover on seeds is removed. These seeds are considered as pure seeds. Common and popular names of Viola odorata around the world. Languages/Regions/Countries Names 1) Arabic Banafsaj, Benephig 2) Bengal Banafsha, Banosa 3) Danish Martzfioler 4) Dutch Tamme viol 5) Egypt Benefshig 6) English Apple-leaf, Bairnwort, Blue violet, March violet 7) French Fleur de mars, Violier commun 8) German Blauoesken, Blauvoegschen, Blauvoelken 9) Hindi Banafshah 10) Hungarian Ibolya 11) Italian Mammola, Viola 12) Marathi Bagabanosa 13) Polish Tamaioasa, Toporas 14) Russian Packutchaya fialka 15) Sanskrit Jvarapaha, Vanapsa 16) Spanish Violeta, Violeta de olor 17) Swedish Aekta fioler 18) Urdu Banafshah Many healers adopt more complicated method. After removing the minute cover, these healers dip the seeds in cow’s urine up to few hours and seeds are washed again. These seeds are considered best to prepare the drugs. In reference literatures, this purification method is described but in very short. For beginners, it is very difficult to purify the seeds with the help of reference atures only. As medicine, the healers use it in very minute quantity. Most of the healers are aware to treat the patients if it is taken in excess. The healers told me that both internal and external use of Kuchla can cure this disease in very short time. The healers informed that they prefer to collect the seeds from atleast 30 years old plants. According to them, in younger plants there are less properties. They have marked the trees having over 30 years age, and educating the next generation to prefer only these trees. The healers gave me shocking news about the decreasing population of this herb in natural forests. According to them, the herb is decreasing at alarming rate. Unfortunately, the state officials are not aware of this fact and at present no conservation work focused on Kuchla is in progress. The scientific name of Kuchla is Strychnos nux-vomica (family : Loganiaceae). It is in the list of high demanded non-wood forest produces of the state. Common Indian Names of Kuchla (Strychnos nux-vomica) Languages/Regions Names 1) Bengali Kachila, Kuchila, Thalkesur 2) Gujarati Kuchla 3) Hindi Bailewa, Chibbenge, Kajra, Kuchla 4) Kanarese Hemusthi, Ittangi, Itti, Kajavara, Khasea, Yetti, Yettica 5) Konkani Kazra, Koya, Musthi 6) Malyalam Kanhiram, Kanjera, Kanjiram 7) Marathi Jharkatchura, Kajrakar, Kara, Karo 8) Telugu Musadi, Mushadi, Kushti 9) Tamil Eddikunchera, Kanchurai, Yetti 10) Uriya Karan, Kerra, Kuchila 11) English Crowfig, Nux-vomica tree, Poison nut, Snake wood, Strychnine tree. ere is a heavy national and international demand of Kuchla. Kuchla holds a reputed position in almost all systems of medicine. In reference literatures, a lot of information about Kuchla is available. Although all parts of Kuchla are used as medicine but wood, leaves, fruits and seeds are among frequently used parts. According to Ayurveda, Kuchla fruit is acrid, pungent, bitter, heating, appetiser, tonic, astringent to bowels and antipyretic and useful in treatment of leucoderma, blood disorders, piles, ulcers, pneumonia, anaemia, jaundice, itching, ear troubles and urinary discharges. In different parts of India, many studies have been done on propagation and commercial cultivation of this herb. There is a need to encourage the herb growers of Chhattisgarh, to cultivate this herb. The commercial cultivation can help a lot to reduce the pressure on natural population. In reference literatures, I have got the botanical description of this useful herb. Kuchla is a slow growing small handsome deciduous to semi-evergreen shade bearing tree growing commonly in shady areas. It attains a height of 9 to 12 meters, in general. When it occurs in moist deciduous forests it attains a fairly large size of about 30 meters height. The branch lets are opposite. Bark is yellowish-grey to blackish grey thin, smooth, covered with minute tubercles and containing chlorophyll tissue. The flowers are dull green white whereas the colour of fruit is brownish yellow. The fruits are berry nearly about the size of a small orange, containing a large quantity of gelatinous pulp in which 1 to 5 seeds are embedded. The seed is flat disc shaped, 4-6 mm thick, hard, sometimes irregularly curved, the edges rounded or subacute. I personally feel that there is a strong need to pay special attention on this herb in Chhattisgarh. Vanfasha is common herb found on forest flour in Chhattisgarh region. After ending the discussion on Kuchla, we started discussing this useful herb. The traditional healers informed me that they use this herb very frequently for the treatment of respiratory diseases. The herb before flowering is collected. Most of the healers prefer to collect his herb early morning. The decoction of Vanfasha is prepared using whole herb (excluding roots). The decoction is useful in many complaints. The healers recommend it mainly for cough and cold but according to them, it is also good for body ache, fever and constipation. The healers of Bastar region suggest the natives to take the decoction of Vanfasha during transitional periods in order to remain healthy during these periods. I informed them the traditional healers of Raipur and Nagri - Sihawa region, suggests the natives to use the decoction of Chirayata (Kalmegh; Andrographis paniculata) for same purpose. The healers replied that they are also aware of this use but they prefer Vanfasha as compared to Kalmegh. The healers frequently use this herb to reduce extra "Garmi" (body heat). In reference literatures, the uses of Vanfasha are described in detail. In Chhattisgarh, Vanfasha in not a routine non-wood forest produce. The healers have no complaint about its natural occurrence. I am describing its botany, I have noted from reference literatures. The scientific name of Vanfasha is Viola betonicifolia (Family Violaceae). It is a herb with leaves in rosette; lamina glabrous to more or less pubescent, roundish, obtuse; petioles more or less winged above ;stipules ovate lanceolate, acuminate, sparsely short fimbricate, adnate up to middle point. Peduncles with 2 bracteolates at the middle; Flower lilac; Sepals ovate to lanceolate, acute or acuminate. Petals obovate-oblong, lateral petals usually beared at the base ; spur cylindrical; Capsules 1cm long, ellipsoid or oblong, glabrous. Flowering time varies between January to May in Chhattisgarh conditions. Many traditional healers add the decoction of Arusa (Adhatoda vasica) in the decoction of Vanfasha in order to get better results but the traditional healer of Machkot, told that this combination is not a compatible one and the healers using this combination should take special precaution during its use. This combination is not mentioned in reference literatures. I personally feel that there is a need of scientific investigation and evaluation. On the basis of root colour, Nisoth can be divided in two varieties i.e. black and white. In Chhattisgarh, I have observed black variety in dominance. The Bastar region is well known for natural occurrence of Nishoth. The traditional healer are aware of its miracle healing properties and also they use it very frequently for the treatment of many common diseases. As medicine, the healers of Bastar region, use the roots but in rare cases they use whole herb to prepare different combinations. The traditional healers conduct a small worship ceremony in forest before digging Nisoth roots. In general, they apply fresh curd on roots of herb and two hours after application, they harvest the roots. They informed me that use of curd increases the medicinal potential of Nisoth roots. All healers were not agree with this reason. Many healers told me that curd is applied for specific reason. According to them , many insects attack on roots of Nisoth. The use of curd repel away these insects and two hours time is sufficient for them to leave the roots. There is no harmful effect of curd on Nisoth roots, or herb. I would like to request the researchers reading this article, to focus their studies on this important aspect also. The use of curd in this way is not mentioned in reference literatures. Nisoth is found as natural herb in other parts of state also, but the traditional healers of that parts are not aware of this collection method. There is a need to evaluate the efficacy of roots collected by using these two different methods. During my surveys, I always dig the roots of Nisoth, in order to see insect infestation but I have yet not observed any insect in roots. I think that the role of curd is associated with the medicinal properties of Nisoth. I am confident that the scientific research can answer this ion in near future. The traditional healers prefer the roots before flowering. They use the powdered root in treatment of piles, fever, epilepsy, jaundice and biliousness. According to them, it is good purgative and it should be used very carefully. In many cases the patients feel uneasy after taking Nisoth. The healers advise the patients to take coconut water in plenty to get relief. The healers are using the roots mostly in treatment of fever. The healers give the powdered roots with pure honey to the patients to reduce the body temperature. Nisoth as non - wood forest produce holds a reputed position in Chhattisgarh. There is good national and international demand. The forests of Chhattisgarh, fulfill the annual requirement of Nisoth to many established drug companies of India. As I am writing about this herb for the first time in my articles, I would like to describe its botany noted from reference literatures. The scientific name of Nisoth is Ipomoea turpethum (Family Convolvulaceae). It is a large perennial herb with milky juice; root long, fleshy, much branched, stem very long, twining, and twisted together, angled and winged; Leaves ovate or oblong, mucronate, rarely slightly lobed, base cordate or truncate. Flowers in few flowered cymes, bracts large, often pinkish, pedicels thickened upwards; Corolla white; Fruits capsule, globose, enclosed in enlarged sepals. Flowering time varies between October to February in Chhattisgarh conditions. The traditional healer from Dantewada region disclosed the use of Charota roots in same manner as the roots of Untkatara (Echinops echinatus) and Chirchita (Achyranthes aspera). He told me that during delivery the roots are put inside the vagina in order to ease the delivery process. The use of Charota (Cassia tora) root in this was is not mentioned in reference literatures. Most of the traditional healers showed ignorance towards this use. They are in favour of use of Chirchita and Untkatara roots or even Kalihari roots (Gloriosa superba). I am also not confident as I have yet not observed its practical use. The healers were having same opinion on the use of Bach roots in treatment of epilepsy. They told me that regular use of Bach roots up to one month under supervision of traditional healers can root out the epilepsy totally. During this treatment, the patients are advised to take only milk with cooked rice as food. The healers use Bach (Acorus calamus) root powder with pure honey. The healers told me about unique use of Parsa flowers for the treatment of Night blindness. The patients are advised to apply the juice of red flowers of Parsa (Butea monosperma) on eyes to get rid from this problem. When I discussed this use to one of my eye expert friend Dr. Dinesh Mishra, he simply discarded this use. He is allopath. I feel that scientific investigation can answer this question more clearly. As the problem of acute tonsillitis is becoming a serious problem particularly in urban areas of Chhattisgarh, I decided to discuss the problem with the traditional healers of Bastar. I got good herb for this purpose. They informed me that regular gargling with the decoction of Babool (Acacia nilotica) can cure it completely. After coming back, I tried this decoction and found it very effective. My family friends are also using it and saving a lot of expenses in terms of anti-biotics. Our discussion was very useful for all of us. We decided to meet at regular interval to update and increase our knowledge level. During discussion, we have also discussed the possibilities of forming traditional healers forum at Bastar region. We are expecting more and more members in next meeting. We were agreed that our discussion was so fruitful only because of the blessings of our Guru, Mr. Vishal Bharat. Traditional Medicinal Knowledge about medicinal herbs Koha (Terminalia arjuna) and Sarphonk (Tephrosia purpurea) in Chhattisgarh plains, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved This article is based on my ethnomedico surveys conducted during 1996-2000, in different districts of Chhattisgarh plains. In Chhattisgarh Plains, Koha is a common tree and both natives and traditional healers are aware of medicinal properties of Koha. I have written a lot on its uses in heart, dental an other related troubles in my previous articles. Its twigs are popular Dataun (Herbal Tooth Brush) in Chhattisgarh. In this article, I am describing some unique uses of Koha, I have got during my surveys. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh plains use different parts of Koha for the treatment of many common diseases. Among these, different types of headaches are major troubles. The healers use Koha both internally and externally. The traditional healers of Durg region advise the patients suffering from headache due to excessive heat, to take the fresh leaves of Koha and Dhania (Coriander) and mix it using water, add sugar for taste and take twice a day till relief. The patients are also advised to take fresh leaves of Koha, Kohda (Pumpkin), Hara Dhania (Green Coriander), Kasni (Cichorium intybus), Makoi (Solanum indicum),Chirpoti (Physalis minima), Kukronda (Blumea lacera), Neem (Azadirachta indica) and extract the juice. This juice is dropped into the nose (few drops) as treatment. The healers informed me that Dhania and Koha are major ingredients in this combination. On the basis of availability, the users can delete or add other herbs. Most of herbs used in this combination are common wasteland plants. In order to get quick relief, one must use all herbs. Many healers boil the Koha seeds, pieces of Kohda fruits and Vanfasha seeds (Viola sp.) in water and patients are advised to expose the affected part in the fumes to get relief. In case of migraine (Adhkapari), the traditional healers of Bagbahera region, use the aqueous paste of Koha seeds for external application. According to them, it is useful in alleviating the intense pain. Many healers use the aqueous paste of leaves with seeds in order to make the combination strong. Botanical differences among major Terminalia species of Chhattisgarh Particulars Terminalia Terminalia Terminalia Terminalia alata arjuna bellirica chebula 1) Local Names Saj Koha Bahera Harra 2) Habit A large, deciduous, straight-stemmed tree, with wavy crown, 32 m or more A large, evergreen tree with a spreading crown and dropping branches. A handsome tree, upto 40 m A tree with a round crown and spreading branches, 15-24m 3) Stem Clean, straight bole, upto 21m. Rarely long and straight, sometimes flutted Straight, frequently buttressed when large, clear bole of 6-9 m Cylindric, bole 4-9 m 4) Bark Grey or black, with deep, longitudinal, Fissures and transverse cracks. Very thick, grey or pinkish-green, smooth, exfoliating in thin, irregular sheets Bluish or ash-grey, with numerous, fine longitudinal cracks, yellow inside Dark brown, often longitudinally cracked, exfoliating in woody scales. 5) Leaf Elliptic or ovate, with one or two glands near the base. Subopposite, oblong or elliptic, coriaceous Broadly elliptic, clustered towards the ends of branches Ovate or elliptic with a pair of large glands at the top of petiole. 6) Flower Dull yellow, in terminal and axillary panicles White, small in panicled spikes. Greenish white, with honeylike smell , in axillary, simple ovoid, pyriform or ellipsoidal spikes Yellowish-white or greenishwhite in terminal spikes 7) Fruit Upto 5 cm long, with 5 broad, coriaceous horizontally veined wings, 400-700 fruits per kg. Ovoid or ovoid-oblong, 5-7 seeded, 2.5-5.0 cm long with winged angles. Globular, obscurely 5 angled, somewhat fleshy dry, 0.3-2.0 cm diameter, grey, velvety, tomentose Ellipsoidal, obovoid or ovoid, yellow to orange-brown, sometimes tinged with red or black and hard drupe when ripe 8) Seed 13,000/kg, germination 4- 70 days, 35-70 percent, viable upto 12 months Hard, 775-800/kg, germination 50-76 days, 50-60 percent Germination 38-100 percent, viable upto one year, germination 14-30 days Hard, pale yellow, germination 15-90 days, viable upto one year, germination 60 percent. The traditional healer of Dhamtari region, uses Koha seed, fruit, roots and barks in equal proportion for preparation of aqueous paste. I personally feel that there is a need of scientific investigation to evaluate the efficacies of these combinations. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh Plains prepare a special herbal oil from Koha leaves. Young leaves are preferred to prepare the oil. The healers crush the leaves and extract the juice. The juice is mixed in Sesamum oil and allowed to boil. When water evaporates completely from this combination the process is stopped. The traditional healers use this oil in many ways. The healers suggest the patients suffering from insomnia to use this oil externally on head and sole of both legs. According to them it is also good for chronic headache. The traditional healers of Raipur region, told me that it is good for hairs also. It promotes new hair growth and stops premature hair fall. But the traditional healers of others parts are not agree with this use. Many healers use the roasted seeds of Dhania and Koha to prepare powder. The healers give this powder with pure honey to the patients suffering from insomnia. According to them, in place of pure honey, Gud (Jaggery) can be used. The healers also advise the patients to burn this powder and inhale the fumes to get sound sleep. In case of bleeding piles, the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh plains prepare a decoction using Koha bark. The patients are advised to use this decoction in many ways. Daily intake of this decoction once in a day is recommended. During the preparation of decoction, the patients are instructed to put the affected parts in fumes. After cooling the traditional healers give it to the patients to apply it externally on bleeding piles. According to the traditional healers, these multiple uses of same decoction, helps the patients to get rid from this problematic disease. The traditional healers of Dongargarh region informed me that the decoction of bark is useful in dysentery. Major Botanical differences between two Tephrosia species Characteristics Tephrosia Tephrosia candida purpurea 1) Habit A gregarious shrub, stem slender, sometimes woody, branches with persistent, brown or grey, velvety pubescence, 1.2 - 4.5 meters. A polymorphic, much-branched, suberect, hardy perennial herb, 30-60 cm 2) Leaf Imparipinnate, 12-25 cm long, leaflets 15-25, narrowly oblong to obovate oblong, grey or white, silky beneath Imparipinnate, 5-15 cm long, leaflets 9-21, narrow, oblanceolate, glabrous above, obscurely silky below 3) Flower Creamy white tinged with red, in racemes Red or purple in leaf-opposed racemes 4) Pods Slightly recurved, clothed with brown silky hair, 10-15 seeded pod Slightly recurved, glabrescent, 5-10 seeded 5) Seeds Brownish Greenish grey, smooth I have already described it in my previous articles, that this decoction is good heart tonic. The bone setters of Kapsi region advise the patient to take the fresh juice or decoction of Koha bark with milk in order to heal the fractures in less time. I have talked to many patients using Koha bark for this purpose and according to them , it is really very effective. The traditional healers of Raipur region, suggests the common person to apply this decoction as face wash to make the face fresh and free from infections. Many beauty parlors at Raipur city are using this decoction with Multani mitti (Fuller’s clay). This combination is applied on face as face pack. The healers told me that it is good in removing black marks from face. The traditional healer of Gunderdehi, advise the patients to take the fresh aqueous extract of Koha bark with pure honey to treat chronic cough. According to him, the aqueous extract is very useful. He also told me that the aqueous extract given with the aqueous extracts of Aam (Mangifera indica) and Jamun (Syzygium sp.), is best remedy for any type of bleeding, both internal and external. To treat acute coryza, the healers use many herbal combinations. In this combination, Koha seeds are used as an integral part. The traditional healer of Devkar village, informed me that he used the Koha seeds to reduce the quantity of excessive milk in lactating woman. According to him, he suggests his patients to use the aqueous paste of Koha seeds, Masoor (Lentil) and Jeera (Cumin) externally for this purpose. For the natives and traditional healers of Chhattisgarh, Koha is one of the most valuable trees. rveys in other parts of Chhattisgarh are in progress and I will write more on this useful medical herb in my coming articles. Although in reference literatures Sarphonk is described as green manure crop but in Chhattisgarh the farmers are not aware of its uses as green manure crop. In Chhattisgarh, Sarphonk is found as wasteland plant. For farmers it is not a headache and weed scientists rarely recommend chemicals to eradicate it. Both for natives and traditional healers of Chhattisgarh, Sarphonk is a ble herb. Like Koha, it is also used as Dataun during festival time specially by women. In many parts of Chhattisgarh, the traditional healers consider it as "Vajradanti" but according to herb experts the "Vajradanti" mentioned in Ayurveda is another " Vajradanti" is a popular herb used to make the teeth and mouth trouble free. Like Calotropis, Blumea, Achyranthes, Datura it is also a very common herb found in almost every corner of Chhattisgarh. Sarphonk is in the list of non-wood forest produces of Chhattisgarh. There is routine demand of this herb in national and international drug markets. The traders from nearby metro, prefer to buy the whole herb, roots and seeds of Sarphonk in bulk. Like the seeds of Charota (Cassia tora), its seeds are also used as substitute to coffee. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh plains, use different parts of Sarphonk, to treat more than 25 common diseases. The farmers use the roots of Sarphonk as first aid measure in case of injuries from agricultural implements. They collect the fresh roots chew it and apply the juice externally on injured parts in order to stop bleeding and to enhance the healing process. The traditional healers use the roots of Sarphonk to treat the enlarged spleen. The healers collect the roots before flowering and give it to patients with whey. According to them, it is one of the best remedies for enlarged spleen (Tilli locally). The seeds and roots of Sarphonk are used to treat rat bite by the natives of Chhattisgarh plains. In different systems of medicine, Sarphonk holds a reputed position. According to Ayurveda, the Sarphonk plant is digestible, anthelmintic, alexiteric, alterative, antipyretic and useful in treatment of liver, spleen, heart, blood, tumours, ulcers, leprosy, asthma and poisoning whereas seeds are useful in rat- poisoning. According to Yunani system of medicine, the Sarphonk root is diuretic and useful in treatment of asthma, bronchitis, liver, spleen diseases, boils and pimples, inflammations etc. The leaves are tonic to intestines and useful in respiratory diseases, piles, syphilis an gonorrhoea. I am describing its botany in short. Sarphonk is a polymorphic, sub erect, hardy and perennial herb; Leaf imparipinnate, 5-15 cm long; leaflets 9-21, narrow, oblanceolate, glabrous above, obscurely silky below Flower red or purple opposed racemes; Pod slightly recurved, glabrescent, 5-10 seeded; Seed greenish grey and smooth. The detailed surveys are in progress. Bhengra (Eclipta alba) as medicinal herb in Chhattisgarh, India : Traditional Medicinal Knowledge, Natural Occurrences and Trade Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia ,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Although in reference literatures, only two species of Bhengra are mentioned but according to the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh, three species of Bhengra are present in the state. On the basis of flower colour, these species can be clearly distinguished. In reference literatures, yellow and white flowered Bhengra are mentioned. The yellow flowered variety is most common in Chhattisgarh. The details of blue flowered Bhengra is not available. The traditional healers of the state are well aware of this variety and according to them, it is very rare and best of all in terms of medicinal properties. The white flowered variety is considered as most inferior among others. I have seen all three varieties of Bhengra in Chhattisgarh. The traditional healer of Bastar, informed that there is one more variety i.e. black flowered variety. But the healers from other parts of state are not agree with them and I have also yet not seen the black flowered Bhengra variety. The flora of Madhya Pradesh (1993) published by the prestigious Indian organization Botanical Survey of India, Lucknow, India described that four species of Eclipta have been reported in warmer parts of America, Africa, Asia and Australia. Common and popular names of Bhengra (Eclipta alba) around the world Languages/regions/countries Common Names 1) Arabic Kadim-el-bint 2) Bengal Kesari, Keshori, Kesuti, Keysuria 3) Kanarese Garagadasappu, Kadiggagarga 4) Srilanka Kaikechi, Kaivichi, Illai, Kariappan 5) Chinese Han Lien T'sao, Li chang 6) Egypt Sa'de 7) Gujarati Bhangra, Dodhak, Kalobhangro, Kaluganthi 8) Hindi Babri, Bengraya, Bhangra, Mochkand, Mochrand 9) Iraq Arundis 10) Sanskrit Ajagara, Angaraka, Bhekaraja, Bhringa, Bhringaraja, Ekaraja, Karanjaka, Kesharaja, Keshya, Kesharanjana, Mahabhringa, Milabringa, Sunilaka, Pitripriya. 11) Tamil Kaikeshi, Kaivishillai 12) Telugu Galagara, Guntakalaogra 13) Urdu Bhangra, Dodhak, Kalobhangro, Kaluganthi 14) Uriya Kesarda According to this reference book, only one species is reported in Madhya Pradesh (at the time of publication of this book, Chhattisgarh was the part of Madhya Pradesh state). The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are not ready to consider all these varieties as variants or biotypes. According to them, not only in terms of flower colour and medicinal properties but morphologically all varieties are different. During my ethnomedico surveys to different parts of the state, I have found that most of the traditional healers using Bhengra for treatment, prefer blue variety but as this variety is rare they use white flowered variety available as wasteland plant in abundance. As Agronomist, I am observing white flowered variety since my student life as common weed in rice fields. During my M. Sc. (Ag.)field work, I have seen my friends using lethal weedicides to manage this so called weed in rice fields, as a part of their field work. In literatures related to weed sciences, Bhengra is described as one of the greatest enemies of farmers but in Chhattisgarh, Bhengra is a valuable herb for not only the traditional healers but also for the farmers. For treatment of many common diseases, the traditional healers & native both use this herb very frequently. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh, use all parts of Bhengra to prepare medicine. It is used both internally and externally, alone or in combination with other herbs. You will be surprised to know that the traditional healers consider the soil on which Bhengra grows, a valuable medicinal soil and use it for specific purposes. I have written a lot on the medicinal uses of Bhengra for Hair care in my article "Traditional Medicinal knowledge about common herbs used in Hair Care in Chhattisgarh, India" : Recently, I have got information on new method (at least for me) during discussions with the traditional healers of Bastar region. The traditional healers of this region, mix the Bhengra leaves, flowers and Jason (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) leaves and flowers in buffalo’s milk and keep this mixture in container (made up of iron) for fifteen days. This mixture is used to dye the hair black. The healers advise the patients to apply this mixture on hairs before sleep at night. In order to make it more effective the healers instruct the patients to avoid the use of soaps and other oils on hair. Many healers add more fresh milk and Bhengra flowers, in fifteen days old mixture. After addition of fresh milk and Bhengra flowers, it is immediately given to patients and the healers instruct them to store this mixture in cool place. I have tried this mixture and found it effective. For other methods please read the article mentioned above. The traditional healers of Sarguja region, use the Bhengra in respiratory troubles. In case of acute asthmatic attack, the healers burn the dried Bhengra herb and advise the patients to inhale the fumes. If available, with Bhengra herb, Dhatra (Datura stramonium), Arusa (Adhatoda vasica), Kukronda (Blumea lacera) leaves can be added. According to the healers, the combination of Bhengra and Blumea leaves are best but to use this combination, storage of both herbs is essential. Both herbs must be collected in vegetative stage. In Chhattisgarh, Blumea appears on ground when Bhengra herb is in full bloom stage. So, it is very difficult for the healers to search the late germinated Bhengra herb and early germinated Blumea herb. The healers told me that storage of these herbs is not a promising solution. According to them during the storage these herbs loose many of its valuable medicinal properties. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh plains, use Bhengra herb juice to treat asthmatic patients. The fresh juice is boiled in edible oil and given to the patient internally for specific time. The traditional healers from Machkot area, told me that the use of Bhengra both internally and externally at the same time, helps the body to get rid from respiratory troubles quickly. According to him as it occur in marshy and water -logged cool habitat, its (nature) is hot and this is the reason it is very effective in respiratory troubles. I am not sure whether his description or theory, is scientifically fit or not, but the patients, taking treatment from him, told me that his herbs are really effective. The traditional healer of Rajnandgaon, informed that the preparation in which fresh Bhengra juice is boiled in oil, is also useful for the treatment of Safed Dag ( Leucoderma). He use this preparation for the Leucoderma patients suffering from respiratory diseases. As supplement, he suggests the patients to eat more and more Chaulai (Amaranthus viridis) and Palak (Spinach) Bhaji (Vegetable) and apply the fresh juice of Bhengra on skin spots for quick relief. In case of Acidity, the traditional healer, advises his patients to eat the combination of fresh juice of Bhengra, Harra Churna ( Terminalia chebula Powder) and Gud up to relief. During my ethnomedico surveys, I have observed that the traditional healers always look younger to their actual age. Also, when they visit the forests for the collection of herbs, they work hard without much rest. I always ask them to tell their secrets. I have got many valuable information on this aspect. I will write a separate article on this hot topic. Here I am describing the secret formula of the traditional healer of Amarkantak region. Two years back, I got an opportunity to visit Amarkantak hills with Mr. D.S. Parihar, the king of Nagod and herb lover. About 30-35 Kilometers far from Amarkantak city we met a traditional healer engaged in collection of herbs in dense forests. We helped him in his collection work and after completion of work, we sat for long discussion on herbs and its uses. When Mr. Parihar asked him about the secret of his great stamina, he disclosed the details of his "Poor man’s tonic’. He informed us that every year in July and August months, he takes only the fresh juice of Bhengra and take nothing as diet. In case of weakness, he prefers cow milk, only. According to him regular use of this "Poor mans tonic" can make the user forever young. It was really hard to believe that it is possible to pass long sixty two days only on Bhengra Juice. Mr. Parihar questioned, whether he can take it with regular diet or not ? His answer was negative. He laughed and told that it is very difficult to remain forever young. On request, he extracted juice for us. It was really difficult to take a teaspoonful quantity of juice for us as its taste was very bitter. Mr. Parihar dropped the idea of becoming forever young after taking a sip of Bhengra juice. He asked for another formula, but the healer repeated this is the only promising, cheap and effective formula. He warned us to avoid the mixing of sweetener in this juice without consulting the traditional healers. I have never tried to use the juice alone or after adding sugar, but I am curious to know its effect on human body. This is unique formula and the healers generally avoid to disclose these types of formulas to unknown persons. I personally feel that there is a strong need to evaluate the efficacy of this formula scientifically. The natives of Chhattisgarh, use the fresh juice of Bhengra to dress the wounds as antiseptic. According to them, the use of juice in wounds, enhance the healing process. In many parts, the natives boil this herb in oil and this herbal oil is used in wound dressing. In case big wounds, the natives add, neem leaves or neem oil in this preparation. During my surveys in Nagri-Sihawa region, the natives informed me that the fresh juice of Bhengra with milk is given to the pregnant woman prone to habitual abortion in order to prevent the abortion. According to them it is an age old practice and still in use. In reference literatures, I have found the details regarding this use. I am proud to write that the natives of Chhattisgarh are also aware of this use and they are still using it. The traditional healers of Nagri-Sihawa informed that the preparation of fresh juice with milk, is also useful as tonic for common person. According to them it is a promising memory enhancer and regular use, under the super vision of traditional healers, can make the common person, free from all diseases. In my allelopathic studies, I have found Bhengra as potential allelopathic herb. The field and laboratory level studies clearly indicated that this herb can be used to develop eco friendly, cheap, effective and natural ‘Green herbicides’. I have found it effective against many insects and pathogens. The rice farmers of Chhattisgarh informed me that the fields having rich population of Bhengra, less affected by insect damage. It is general observation. To confirm this finding, the scientific investigation is essential. Although a lot of work has been done on chemical weed control of Bhengra and literatures are full information regarding bad effects of Bhengra on rice crop but to weed scientists are still unable to tell the farmers that how many Bhengra herbs in any crop field cause the damage and up to what extent. In laboratory studies, I have observed stimulatory effects of Bhengra herb on germination and early seedling vigor of common rice varieties. The presence of Bhengra in rice ecosystem is a part of nature’s experimentation and selection (human beings have not introduced this weed in rice ecosystem) then how it can harm the rice crop. There is strong need for detailed scientific investigation. In reference literatures, the white flowered Bhengra variety is described in details. I have yet not found the botanical description of yellow, blue and black flowered varieties of Bhengra herb. Here I am describing the botany of white flowered variety i.e. Eclipta alba (Syn. E. alba, Verbesina prostrata, V. Alba) family : Composite Bhengra is an annual herb, often rooting at the nodes, stems and branches strigose and hairy ; Leaves opposite, sessile, usually oblong lanceolate, sub entire, strigose and hairy; flowers in heads, solitary or two to gather axillary; involucral bracts about eight; ray flower ligulate; disk ones tubular, Corolla often four toothed; pappus O; Flowers achene cuneate with a narrow wing. In reference literatures it is mentioned that yellow flowered variety is useful in treatment of Jaundice, but according to the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh, the blue flowered (rare) variety is even more potential to yellow flowered variety. Bhengra holds a reputed position in almost all system of medicine. According to Ayurveda, it is bitter (we have experienced when tried the juice to become forever young), hot, fattening, alterative, anthelmintic, alexipharmic and good for complexion, hair, eyes and teeth. It is useful in treatment of eye diseases, bronchitis, asthma, leucoderma, anaemia, heart and skin diseases, night blindness, syphilis etc. Bhengra is one of the important non-wood forest produces of Chhattisgarh. There is a routine demand of this herb in national and international markets. Few years back many new farmers, not aware of its natural occurrence in rice fields, started commercial cultivation of Bhengra in fairly large areas but they are still fighting for good prices. Bhengra is available in plenty in almost every corner of the state. Due to this abundance, the Bhengra collectors are not getting good prices. In Tilda region, natives still give Bhengra herbs in exchange of equal weight table salt. Under such circumstances, it is very difficult to make the commercial cultivation of Bhengra profitable. Many reputed Indian research organizations are also engaged in conducting research to develop a complete cultivation practices for Bhengra. This is really surprising that weed scientists are recommending chemicals to eradicate this so-called useful herb and in same country, herb researchers are engaged in developing cultivation packages for this so-called unwanted herb. I personally feel that proper coordination between them can save not only the cost but also the valuable time. As the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are well aware of different medicinal uses of Bhengra, and this herb is available in abundance, there is a tremendous scope to establish small cottage industries to prepare different formulations at state level. This small cottage industries, will be beneficial for al i.e. the collectors, traditional healers, unemployed rural youths etc. In many villages, with the help of innovative farmers, I have started a special campaign of weed utilization. We encourage the farmers to adopt hand weeding method of weed control. The herbs are collected after hand weeding and we sell it to local herb dealers informing them that we have collected it from forest. We get good returns. This weed utilization helps the farmers in many ways. It saves the cost of agrochemicals, protect our environment from agro chemicals, the hand weeding method provides an employment opportunities to rural youths and the cost of weeding is recovered and in most of the cases the farmers earn an additional income from these so-called unwanted herbs. I have also suggested the traditional healers engaged in utilizing the Bhengra herb, to search and develop new uses of Bhengra. With the help of herb grower Mr. Deen Dayal Verma we are trying to use it as potential input in organic farming of medicinal and aromatic crops. We are getting encouraging results. Before ending this article I would like to request the researchers to start research on medicinal properties of different varieties of Bhengra. If you will identify the blue variety as potential one, we can encourage the farmers to cultivate this variety in their fields, as it is rare in Chhattisgarh. The modern time is the time of multi disciplinary approach, and I am sure that by adopting this approach, we can serve the world community in a more better way. Traditional Medicinal Knowledge about common herbs used for the treatment of Hydrocele in Chhattisgarh, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Mainphal is a common tree in Chhattisgarh, found abundantly in natural forests. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh, use very frequently different parts of Mainphal to treat hydrocele. It is used both externally and internally. Medically Hydrocele can be defined as a circumscribed collection of fluid in the tunica vaginalis of testis. It is one of the common problems particularly among youths. The public urinals of capital city are full of posters claiming that contact so and so doctors for promising cure in minimum fees. These posters indicate that like other parts of India, in Chhattisgarh also this is a common problem. Unfortunately, the natives, particularly belonging to urban areas are not aware of traditional medicinal knowledge and practicing traditional healers and they are investing a lot of money in modern treatment with less success. In my surveys, I have found over 30 traditional healers specialized in the treatment of hydrocele. Other traditional healers are also aware but the success percentage I have noted is higher in case of specialist traditional healers. These healers use number of herbs but I have found Mainphal as most frequently used herb. It is used alone or in combination with other herbs. Its roots, barks and leaves are used but most of the healers use the leaves. The healers extract the leaf juice and put the juice under neem (Azadirachta indica) tree shade whole night. Next morning the juice is applied externally on scrotum. In absence of neem tree, the healers use Baking (Melia azedarach) tree shade. It is general belief among traditional healers that this effective treatment, increases the medicinal properties of Mainphal leaf juice. Before keeping the pot under the neem tree, the healers perform small worship and utter mantras. In this worship, the healers request the neem tree to help in increasing the medicinal potential of leaf juice. I personally feel that here is a need of scientific evaluation of this process. Major Botanical differences among Curcuma species Characteristics Curcuma Curcuma Curcuma Curcuma amada aromatica longa zeodaria ms and Stemless herb, root stock large, sessile, tubers thick, cylindric or ellipsoid, pale yellow inside. Stemless herb, root stock large, sessile, annulate, biennial, tubers yellow and aromatic inside. Tubers oblong, Palmate, deep orange inside Stemless herb, root stock of palmately branched, cylindric, oblong, annulate tubers, Pale yellow inside, odour like camphor, taste bitterish spicy. 2) Leaves Long petiolated in tufts, 30-45x7.5-12.5 cm, oblong lanceolate. 38-60x10-20 cm, oblong elliptic or laneolate, green, variegated above, base deltoid. Long stalked, lanceolate, tapering to each end, smooth, of a uniform green. 4-6 with long petioles, 30-60 cm long, oblong-lanceolate, clouded with purple down the middle. 3) Flowers In autumnal spikes, Flowering bract greenish-white, bract of the coma tinged with red or pink, Calyx white or very pale yellow. Fragrant, in spikes 15-30 cm long, Flowering bracts cymbiform rounded at the tips, pale green, forming pouches for the flowers, bracts of the coma tinged with red or pink Calyx tube 2.5 cm, Upper half funnel shaped, lobes pale-rose lip yellow, 3 lobed. Spike central , oblong, green. Flowering stem 20-25 cm long, appearing before the leaves, clothed with sheaths, Flowers yellow in spikes, flowering bract green tinged with red, coma bract crimson or purple, Calyx funnel shaped, lobed, lip 3 lobed, deep yellow. The traditional healers of Mahasamund region, told me that the tree of Doomar (Ficus glomerata) is equally useful as the trees of Neem and Bakain, but the traditional healers of other part of Chhattisgarh are not ready to accept this. The Ayurveda expert of Raipur city having deep faith in traditional medicinal knowledge, told me that there is no meaning of this process. According to him, the healers perform this ceremony only to impress the patients and to show them that preparation of drug is not a child’s play. But I am not agree with him. The healers generally do not demonstrate the preparation methods to their patients. After getting convinced by my interest and work, they agreed to show me the process. The patients getting the treatment from the healers are not aware of this process. Hence, there is no question of impressing the patients. I am sure that systematic scientific research can answer these questions. In old troubles, the healers use the root juice of Mainphal in place of leaf juice. Sometimes, the healers use the combination of both. The aqueous extract of Mainphal seeds is also used. The healers told me majority of cases, use of different parts of Mainphal in treatment of hydrocele is not written in detail. According to these literatures, mainly the bark and fruit are used as medicine but I am proud to write that the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh re aware of medicinal uses of all parts of Mainphal. In reference literatures many other medicinal properties of Mainphal are described in detail. According to Ayurveda, it is bitter, sweet, heating, aphrodisiac, emetic, antipyretic, carminative and alexiteric and useful in treatments of ulcers, inflammations, skin-disorders, chronic bronchitis, muscular pain, paralysis, boils, leprosy, eruptions etc. The scientific name of Mainphal is Randia spinosa (Syn. R. dumetorum, R. brandisi, R. tomentosa, Xeromphis spinosa), family Rubiaceae. I am describing its botany in short. It is armed shrub or small tree; spines axillary; Leaves mostly fascicled on branchlets, obovate or oblanceolate, sub coriaceous, glabrescent or pubescent; stipules ovate; Flowers solitary or 2- 3 fascicled, creamy white, fragrant; Calyx campanulate; Corolla covered with appressed silky hairs; Fruits globose, fleshy. Flowering time varies between May to July, in Chhattisgarh conditions. Common Indian Names of Baibirang Languages/Regions Names 1) Gujarati Varding, Vavading 2) Hindi Boberang, Wavrung, Baibirang 3) Kanarese Vayuvitang, Vidanga 4) Marathi Vavading, Kakannie 5) Sanskrit Bhasmaka, Bidanga, Jantughna, Pavaka 6) Bengali Biranga 7) Tamil & Telugu Vayuvilanga Different parts of Parsa are also used by the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh to treat hydrocele both internally and externally. Parsa (Butea monosperma) is one of the most demanded non-wood forest produces of the state. I have written a lot on this herb in my previous articles. In order to reduce the pain due to hydrocele, the traditional healers use the root bark of Parsa. The healers collect the roots only during solar or lunar eclipse. These roots are dried in shades and after drying, it is converted in powder. The patients are advised to take this powder (one teaspoonful) twice a day till relief. This in not used for cure. It acts as killer, the patients are advised to take other herbs with this for complete cure. During flowering season (between January to Chhattisgarh conditions), the healers advise the patients to collect the fresh flower from tree and boil it in water. After boiling, the flowers are collected and applied externally on scrotum in order to alleviate the pain. Many healers advise the ts to put the scrotum on the fumes coming out from pot in order to get relief. There is difference in collection procedure of flowers. Many healers prefer the flowers that are fallen in the ground whereas other suggests the patients to collect it from ches. The traditional healer of Tilda, told that the medicinal properties of fresh and fallen flower are completely different. I am surprised by the deep knowledge of the healers. I would like to request the researchers to focus their studies also on this important aspect. The utility of root and stem bark in case of hydrocele is described in reference literatures. According to these literatures, the root and stem bark are useful in treatment the hydrocele. But I have noted that the healers are not aware of its healing properties, as they use it just to alleviate the intense pain. Baibirang is one of the most demanded non-wood forest produces of Chhattisgarh. Every year the traders collect this herb in bulk and supply it to national and international drug markets. For the buyers at national markets, the Baibirang of Chhattisgarh, is most valuable herb. According to them, in terms of medicinal properties the Baibirang of Chhattisgarh is best among Baibirang from other states and they get higher prices for this produce. Unfortunately , the real collectors are not aware of this fact and the traders of district level never want to disclose this fact to them. This is the reason the real collectors are still getting the old prices. Although it is yet not mentioned in official reports but due to over exploitation and high demand, the natural population of Baibirang is decreasing in state. In early days, when there is the demand of Baibirang seeds only, there was no danger for its natural population but from last decades, the demand of its roots has increased. The utility of its root is not mentioned in reference literatures. I am also not aware of its use but the primary collectors informed me that many traders are purchasing Baibirang roots at fairly high rates. When I discussed this with the forest officers, they laughed at me saying that there is no danger because there is demand of fruits only. If we consider the official records only, then they are very true but in field one can clearly observe the decreasing natural population of Baibirnag. The destructive and un-scientific collection method (i.e. collection of roots) is becoming a real curse. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh use the Baibirang seeds for many diseases including hydrocele. The traditional healers of Sarguja region, advice their patients to use Baibirang seeds with ghee and powdered old bricks in order to get relief. This is really surprising to observe the use of powder old bricks in the treatment of any disease. I have never seen or read such unique use, of old bricks. The healers advise them to take this combination internally. According to the healers, Baibirang is main component in this combination but it is useful without powdered old brick and ghee plays vital role in digestion of this brick powder. The healers told me that initially in some cases this combination may cause vomiting or vomiting sensation but the patients should not be worry. When I asked the healers, how they select bricks to be used as medicine, they described detailed methods. I will write a separate article on this important aspect very soon. In reference literatures related to different system of medicine, the medicinal properties of Baibirang is mentioned. According to Ayurveda, Baibirang fruit is hot, dry with sharp bitter taste purgative, carminative, alexiteric, appetiser and useful in the treatment of tumours, ascites, bronchitis, mental troubles, dyspnoea, heart diseases, urinary discharges, jaundice, migraine, and worms in wounds. I would like to described the botany of Baibirang in short. The scientific name of Baibirang is Embelia ribes (family : Myrsinaceae). It is a large scandent shrub with long branches and internodes, bark studded with lenticels; Leaves alternate, coriaceous, elliptic-lanceolate, shinning above, paler and silvery beneath; whole surface covered with minute reddish sunken glands; Flowers in lax panicles, racemes minute, many, greenish yellow; Fruits berry, nearly globose, smooth, succulent, black when ripe, like a pepper corn when dried. Flowering time varies between January to March in Chhattisgarh conditions. Both Haldi (Turmeric) and Kali Haldi (Black Zedoary) are used by the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh in treatment of hydrocele. Both are used externally. In case of intense pain in scrotum, the traditional healers advise the patients to use the rhizomes of Haldi to apply in affected part after mixing it in egg yolk. Aqueous extract is also used in many cases. The use of Haldi in this way is very common in almost all parts of the state but the traditional healers of Bastar region, prefers Kali Haldi. The natural occurrence of Kali Haldi is reported in this region. The traditional healers of Bastar, prepare an aqueous paste and apply it externally just like Haldi paste. But after application, the patients are advised to wrap the betel leaves on it. In absence of betel leaves, the healer use Mahua, or Aam leaves. According to them, the use of leaves helps the aqueous paste to work effectively. For preparation of paste, the healers use lukewarm water and they advise the patients to apply lukewarm paste on scrotum The traditional healer of Kanker told me that in place of betel, Aam or Mahua leaves, one can use the leaves of Kali Haldi itself for better results. The healers from other parts of state are also aware of miracle healing properties of Kali Haldi but due to non-availability of Kali Haldi in all areas is a big constraint. During my work as medicinal plant expert in preparation of state bio-diversity action plan, I got information from forest guards of different corners of the state that Kali Haldi is becoming endangered herb in Chhattisgarh and there is a strong need to take immediate action for its conservation. My talks with the traditional healers after getting the information, confirmed this. Recently, I visited neighbouring state Orissa. The natives complained that due to over exploitation, the availability of this herb is decreasing in their state also. During my visit to West Bengal state, I have seen the cultivation of Kali Haldi in isolated patches. My local guide told me (at that times) that the commercial growers are facing the problem of marketing. When I questioned the leading trader from Kolkata city, that why you are taking herb from forest people of my state, as it is available with the farmers of your state, he replied that there is a demand of Kali Haldi of forest origin not of cultivated origin. Later when I compared the produce of natural and cultivated origin, with the help of my biochemist friend, I found the high residues of chemical pesticides in produce. Although the size of Kali Haldi rhizome from cultivated origin was more but in terms of quality it was very poor. In reference literatures, many medicinal uses of Kali Haldi are well described. According to Ayurveda, Kali Haldi is pungent, bitter, fragrant (in Bengal it is used as cosmetic), heating, appetiser, vulnerary, anthelmintic, antipyretic, alexiteric and useful in leucoderma (my friends have tried it success fully), bronchitis, piles, asthma, tumours, tuberculosis, enlargement of spleen and epileptic seizure. The scientific name of Kali Haldi is Curcuma caesia (Family:Zingiberaceae). I am describing the botany of Kali Haldi. It is a stemless herb with root stock of palmately branched, cylinderic, oblong, annulate tubers, pale-yellow inside; Odour similar to camphor, taste bitterish spicy; Leaves 4-6 with long petioles, 30-60 cm long, oblong-lanceolate, clouded with purple down the middle Flowers with flowering stem having 20-25 cm length, appearing before the leaves, clothed with sheathes; Flowers yellow in spikes, flowering bract green tinged with red; Coma-bract crimson or purple; Corolla funnel shaped, lobed; lip lobed, deep-yellow, Fruits capsule, trigonous. In order to reduce the pressure on natural forests of Chhattisgarh, there is a need to promote its commercial cultivation in the state. The traditional healers also use the decoction of Dhanbaher (Cassia fistula) seeds for the treatment of hydrocele. In case of hydrocele of small children, it is common practice to apply the seeds of Rahar with water, in affected part for immediate relief. The bark of Siris (Albizia lebbeck) is also in use in many parts of state for external application. According to the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh, although the treatment of hydrocele takes long time but it is curable disease and with the help of their knowledge, the patients can be treated in less expenses and through side-effect free therapy. Interactions with the local herb vendors of Chhattisgarh, India Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia © 2001,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved It is good to observe that herb vendors are still active in different parts particularly in rural areas of Chhattisgarh. These vendors purchase the herbs used in treatment of common diseases from primary herb collectors and sell it to village to village. I have found these vendors expert in the field of herbs. They sell the herbs as well as, if necessary, suggest the patients how to use these herbs and up to what time ? Although these herb vendors are not the traditional healers by profession but I have put them in my list of traditional healers. Most of the vendors walk on foot or use bicycle and travel lot of distance to sell the herbs. As the tourism is increasing in Chhattisgarh, now one can see these vendors near to picnic and tourist spots selling herbs to tourists. The tourists take interest in interacting these vendors. I am worrying and praying that they should not become a "Tourism symbol of Chhattisgarh" like the traditional healers. Most of the vendors are genuine tribal youths but many of them are not genuine and they are giving false herbs to the visitors. These false vendors are limited only to the tourist places. It any vendor supply wrong herbs in any village, the villagers never permit him to even enter the village. These vendors are vital link between the primary herb collectors and the traditional healers. During my surveys, many healers complained that the number of vendors is decreasing very rapidly in state. The Indian names of Chitrak (Plumbago sp.) Languages/Regions/Countries Names 1) Bengal & Hindi Chita, Chitrak, Chitra 2) Gujarati Chitaro, Chitrak 3) Kanarese Chitramula, Vahni 4) Malyalam Tumbakoduveli, Vellakoduveli 5) Marathi Chitramula 6) Oriya Chitamulo, Ogni 7) Telugu Agnimula 8) Tamil Chitramulam The rich natives of Chhattisgarh, take regular services from these vendors because these vendors always keep some rare items and herbs like white flowered Bhatkatiya (Solanum xanthocarpum), Hathajodi, Baghnakha etc. In many ancient literatures, it is clearly mentioned that keeping these rare items in cash locker increases the money several folds. The rich natives purchase these items at fairly high prices because it is general belief among them that the bargaining can reduce the potential of herbs and items. This belief forces the vendors to contact rich natives rather than the traditional healers. In rich families, tensions are common. The herb vendors supply many herbs and herb parts and suggest the rich natives to keep these in specific direction up to specific time, in order to get rid from tensions. I have observed that the rich natives have deep faith in these vendors, even today. During interactions with these vendors, I got the information of many endangered and valuable herbs in dense forests of Chhattisgarh. I have never seen these herbs earlier in my life . These vendors generally avoid to visit residential colonies in urban areas because of bad experiences in past. After any robbery or theft, the local police harass these vendors and write false reports against them. Many herb vendors regularly visit to my home and supply me rare herbs, for my experiments. As my mother and family friend’s purchase pure honey for their daily use, these vendors supply pure honey regularly. Many times these vendors, collect the honey for us from the trees of our home gardens. These vendors are supplying pure honey since 20 years and they have never cheated us. They also provide the Char seeds (Buchanania lanzan), top quality, during the season. I always prefer to pay more to the vendors as compared to market price and also suggest the family friends to do so because from market one can never get this fine quality, even paying any cost. I have noted that in most of the planning related to bio diversity and medicinal herb conservation programmes, the planners ignore this important stake holder. This stake holder knows the secrets of herb collectors and also of traditional healers. While travelling different parts, he get practical experiences about the effects of herbs and also the efficacy of it. These vendors are precious resources for the taxonomists, botanists, conservationist, agronomists, doctors, researchers etc. In present article, I am describing some herbs an its uses, as told by the herb vendors of Chhattisgarh, India. I have interacted over 500 herb vendors till today and I can write and will write, a separate article on each herb vendor of Chhattisgarh. Here I am describing some common uses. In general, the herb vendors keep the herbs frequently used in the treatment of common diseases, with them. Indrayan is one of these herbs. The herb vendors keep the fruits and roots with them. The vendors prescribe this herb for the treatment of jaundice, rheumatism, woman troubles, boils and enlarged spleen. According to them, the natives of Chhattisgarh are well aware of these uses and they frequently buy this herb from them. In general, the vendors avoid to recommend this herb because overdose of this herb causes problems in stomach and patients blame the vendors for this. In urgency the vendors, give this herb in front of them and advise the patients that they will repeat the dose in their next visits. The vendors informed me that the roots are useful in treatment of Jaundice. The roots are given with gud (Jaggery). It is general belief in Chhattisgarh that the patients suffering from spleen related disease should plant Indrayan herb in their home gardens and sit daily (atleast two hour) near to this herb. For sitting morning time is preferred. The vendors also sell the herbal mala made up of Indrayan roots for these patients. The natives have deep faith in this treatment. There is a need to search the science behind this. In reference literature, the use of Herbal mala is not described. I would also like to describe a special "Totka" perform by the natives. The natives take several pieces of Indrayan roots and after saying the patient’s name repeatedly they throw away each piece of Indrayan root. The patients observe silently this process. It is general belief that this process helps the patients to get rid from this trouble. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are also aware of this belief. The traditional healer of Jagdalpur, told me that this process is performed to develop confidence in patients, or in other words, we can say it is done to reactivate tal force of patients. If there is no harm from this belief, I personally feel, that the natives should not be pressurized to stop it in the name of blind faith, what many organizations of so called educated social workers are doing in Chhattisgarh. The rb vendors informed that the roots of Indrayan are useful in treatment of painful boils common in childhood. The native apply the juice of roots with cow urine externally on boils. In many parts, the natives add the leaves of Neem (Azadirachta indica) and Bakain (Melia azedarach) in this combination. The roots are very popular among old villagers suffering from different types and stages of rheumatism and gout. It is general practice in Chhattisgarh, to boil the roots in water and to expose the affected parts in fumes. The natives use its roots in combination with other herbs for the treatment of these troubles successfully. The vendors informed that many traditional healers use this herb for treatment of woman troubles but they are unable to explain how these herbs are used. I am describing the botany of this herb, I have noted from reference literatures. It is an extensively climbing annual; stem thick, angular; young shoots woolly; tendrils bifid; leaves 7.5-20 cm long, deeply divided or but moderately lobed, somewhat hairy; flowers large, monoecious, solitary; Corolla sub campanulate, 5-partite, yellow within, greenish outside, lobes obovate-oblong, 5 - nerved; Flowers up to 25 cm diameter, sub globose, smooth, greenish, waxy coated; flesh juicy, red or llowish white; seeds usually margined; flowering time in varies between October to January in Chhattisgarh conditions. Indrayan holds a reputed position in different systems of medicine. According to Ayurveda, the roots and fruits of Indrayan are cooling, purgative, anthelmintic, antipyretic, carminative and cures tumours, ascites, ulcers, leucoderma (Safed Dag), ulcers, asthma, bronchitis, urinary discharges, jaundice, enlargement of spleen, tuberculous glands of neck, dyspepsia, anaemia, constipation, throat diseases, elephantiasis etc. The scientific name of Indrayan is Citrullus colocynthis (Family : Cucurbitaceae). Chita is found in isolated patches in Chhattisgarh. The herb vendors collect this herb from neighbouring states Madhya Pradesh and Orissa. The roots and barks are commonly used as medicine in Chhattisgarh. The herb vendors, regularly visiting my home have suggested me the unique use of Chita herb. The vendors suggest me to take a earthen pot and paint the aqueous paste of Chita roots inside the pot. After this, boil the fresh cow milk and fill this pot with milk. Convert milk into curd and from curd prepare whey. According to the vendors this whey is best tonic for stomach troubles and good remedy for piles particularly the bleeding piles.. I have tested this method several times and found it effective. Although it is not an easy method but after experiencing its miracle effects, no one hesitate or feel tired, to complete this process. According to the herb vendors, during their visits to different parts, due to change in water, very frequently they face the problem of diarrhoea. In these cases, they use the bark of Chita with whey internally to avoid and to stop the diarrhoea. They informed me that the natives and many traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are aware of this use. As Chita is not a common herb in Chhattisgarh, the traditional knowledge about this herbs is very limited. Many healers are aware of its uses but due to lack of material they are using local alternatives. In Madhya Pradesh, many herb growers have started the commercial cultivation of Chita. There is a routine demand of this herb in national and international drug markets. The scientists from Jawahar Lal Nehru Agricultural University, Jabalpur, India have done good work on commercial cultivation of this herb. To encourage the farmers, they are organizing field demonstrations at farmer’s fields time to time. As the description of Chita is coming first time in my articles, I would like to describe its botany and reported medicinal uses in reference literatures. The scientific name of Chita is Plumbago zeylenica L. (Family : Plumbaginaceae). According to reference literatures, Plumbago is a straggling shrub; Leaves ovate, acute, abruptly attenuated into a petiole; flowers in dense branched spikes; rachis pubescent or glandular; Corolla lobes obovate; Anthers - purple fruits capsule, oblong and pointed. Flower time varies between July to September in Chhattisgarh conditions. According to Ayurveda, root and root - bark are bitter, hot, carminative, and alternative and useful in treatment of intestine troubles, piles, diseases of liver, itching, anaemia, ascites, bronchitis etc. Nagkesar is also not commonly found herb in Chhattisgarh. The herb vendors collect or purchase this herb from Gandhmardan hills, in neighbouring state Orissa. The vendors informed me that the traditional healers of Orissa use this herb very frequently in treatment of many common diseases. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are not much aware of its uses. The vendors told me that they regularly supply this herb to the traditional healers of Bastar and Bagbahera region. The vendors are also not aware of its medicinal uses. According to them, the healers use this herb for the treatment of bleeding piles. They uses many method for preparation of drug. The herb vendor from Bagbahera described one method. According to him, the healers advise the patients to put Nagkesar in water whole night and next morning take the herb with pure honey for quick relief in bleeding piles. It is also useful for burning sensation in soles of both legs. Many healers prepare oil from Nagkesar. This oil is used for treatment of itch and rheumatism. Many vendors sell this oil also. The scientific name of Nagkesar is Mesua ferrea (family : Gutifereae). These herb vendors are very important for us. We cannot ignore this important resource person in our planning. These days I am preparing a directory of herb vendors of Chhattisgarh with complete details and contact address. I am not adding the name of Mr. Ramcharan in this list. Mr. Ramcharan met us last week, when we were coming back from herbal farm at Pondsri. At Simga, when we were taking evening tea, Mr. Ramcharan approached us and showed me a piece of root and said it is Kaamraj. Keep this herb with you and your all Kaam will be completed successfully. In reality Kaamraj is related to Kaam (i.e. related to sex; in Hindi). Another meaning on Kaam in Hindi is work Kaamraj is used for Kaam (i.e. sex) not for Kaam (i.e. routine or daily work), but this vendor told us keep this, it will help you in completing all works. When we questioned thoroughly this man, we found that he was not a genuine vendor. For the piece of root, he was asking very high rate (500Rs.). When we checked the , it was the root of Chirchita ((Achyranthes aspera) not the Kaamraj. Fortunately this type of false vendors are less in number in Chhattisgarh. You will find more details in my coming articles. Major Ipomoea Species (Morning glories) of Chhattisgarh, India : Natural Occurrence, Traditional Medicinal Knowledge and Trade Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia 01,2002,2003 Pankaj Oudhia - All Rights Reserved Although over 60 species of Ipomoea are reported in India, but in Chhattisgarh, I have found 18 species of Ipomoea and most of species are of economical importance. The natives and traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are aware of medicinal uses of all 18 species and about 6 species are in routine use as medicine in the state .Many species are in the list of non-wood forest produces and there is a routing demand of these species in national and international drug markets. Many species of Ipomoea have been introduced in Chhattisgarh few decades back and became weed. The Chhattisgarh farmers and natives, do not believe in chemical weed control and as result, they have developed some unique uses of these introduced weeds. The traditional healers are also engaged in development of new formulations from these Ipomoea species. Not much has been written on natural occurrence, traditional medicinal knowledge and trade of Ipomoea species in Chhattisgarh, India. With the help of this article, I am describing details of major eight species of Ipomoea in Chhattisgarh, India. Major Ipomoea species and Botanical differences among them Characteristics Ipomoea Ipomoea Ipomoea Ipomoea Ipomoea Ipomoea Ipomoea aquatica carnea pes-carpae pes-tigridis reniformis nil tur pethum 1) Habit A very rapid A large diffuse or An A spreading A herb An annual Large growing, aquatic, trailing or floating, herbaceous, perennial herb straggling shrub with milky juice. extensively climbing or trailing, perennial herb or twinning, herbaceous annual herb perennial herb with milky juice, root long, fleshy, much branched 2) Stem Long, hollow, rooting at nodes ---------- ---------- ---------- Stems many, fili form, creeping, rooting at the nodes Stems twinning sparsely hairy Very long, twining and twisted, together, angled and winged 3) Leaf Elliptic or ovate oblong, cordate or hestate at base Ovate-cordate, entire, acuminate Orbicular, deeply bilobed Deeply palmate, 5- 9 lobed, hairy Reniform or ovate, cordate, crenate, glabrous, petioles hairy Ovatecordate, deeply three lobed, lobes ovate Ovate or oblong, mucronate, rarely slightly lobed, base cordate or truncate 4) Flower Infundibuliform, 2.5-5.0 cm long, white or pale purple with a dark purple eye, solitary or 5 flowered cymes Large, companulate, pale rose, pink or light violet, in lax, dichotomously branched axillary and terminal peduneulate cymes Large, funnelshaped, briliant rosepurple, pink or violet, in axillary, pedunculate cymes Funnel shaped, white or pink, in axillary cymes Yellow axillary solitary or 2- 3 together In 1-5 flowered axillary cymes, bracts linear, tubular funnel shaped, blue with tinged pink In few flowered cymes, bracts large, often pinkish, pedicles, thickened upwards, calyx white, 3-8.5 cm long 5) Fruit Ovoid, 8mm long, smooth, 2-4 seeded capsule Glabrous capsule, 1.25m long Small, avoid, glabrous, 4 seeded Ovoid, paperly, glabrous capsule Capsule, subglobose, surrounded by ciliate sepals Capsule, subglobose or ovoid, 3- celled Capsule, globose, enclosed in enlarged sepals 6) Seed Densely pubescent Silky Dark brown, villiously tomentose Minutely velvety Dark chestnut coloured 4-6 ----------- 7) Flowering and fruiting NovemberJanuary Throught the year Throught the year September to December September to October October to January Beshram was introduced in Chhattisgarh as green manure crop during 1963-64. A senior advocate Mr. Gaya Lal Chandrakar who was rural agricultural extension officer during 1963-64, still remember that at that time he visited Bhopal and brought this herb in trucks as per instructions of his officers. This was first introduction of Beshram in Chhattisgarh. The natives and traditional healers have also confirmed this. The agricultural department started an extensive programme to promote the Beshram cultivation in Chhattisgarh. As you know, the green manure crops are raised prior to main crop and at flowering stage, these crops are buried and decayed in same fields. In general, Leguminous crops are preferred for green manuring. Beshram is not a leguminous herb, its family is Convolvulaceae. In many scientific research works conducted in India and abroad, revealed that the different parts of Beshram are rich in nutrients and it can be used as green manure crop. The agriculture department of Chhattisgarh, introduced Beshram as green manure crop in paddy cultivation. In green manuring, when green manure crop is buried in main fields, sufficient water or moisture is essential in the field, to decompose the crop rapidly. For the decomposition of crop, there is a need of assured irrigation facilities. In absence of assured irrigation facilities, farmers may suffer a lot, if the decomposition process delays, the time of sowing of main crop delays and finally it affect the yield to the great extent. Common Indian names of Ipomoea species. Languages I.aquatica I. carnea I. pescarpae I. pestigridis I. reniformis I-nil I.turpethum Bengali Kalmisag Beshram Chhagalkuri Langulilata - - Dudhkalmi Tohri Kalmisag Beshram, Behaya Dopatilata Ghiabati Musekani Kaladara,Mirchai Nishoth, Pithori Gujarati Nalanibhaji Beshram Marjadavela - Undirkani Kalaeona, Kalokumpo Nohatara, Nashotar Nadishaka Beshram Maryadvel - Undirkani Nilvel, Nilpushpa Nishottara Vellaikeerai - Adamby Pulichavali - - Shivadai, Kumbum Tuttikoora - Balabanditeegu chevulapil iteega Chikunuvvu - - - English Swamp - Cabbhage Morning glory - - - Indian Jalap False Indian Jalap, Turbith root Behayo Kanchonaluota Bilaipadu - - Dudholomo Malyalam - Adumbu valli Pulichuvatu - - Chivaka, Tribhandi Sanskrit Kalaka, Nadika, Pechuli, Shradhashaka - Vrischikparni, Mushakaparni Shyama-bija, Shyama-bijak Kalaparni, Nandi, Triputi, Trivrit Kannarese - - - - Undirkani Ganribij Bili-Aluti gadde, Nagdanti In Chhattisgarh, the irrigation facilities are still not much developed even to day. The agriculture is dependent on monsoon rains only. You can imagine the situation of 1963-64. When the motivated Chhattisgarh farmers have started the cultivation of Beshram in paddy fields as green manure crop, the problem arises. At the stage of burying and decaying due to lack of timely rains, farmers awaited long and after crossing the flowering stage its vegetative multiplication started in paddy fields. The farmers were getting late in sowing of paddy crop When finely the rains came and farmers buried the Beshram, they noted that this crop was not decaying (because proper stage was over). Many farmers suffered and they failed to sow main crop paddy in their fields. After getting sufficient moisture from rains, Beshram crop became vigorous and started rapid multiplication and in very less time, it spread in farmer’s fields as weed. The farmers invested a lot of money to eradicate this so-called beneficial cop from their crop fields. Experiencing this, all farmers threw away the Beshram crop from their fields and decided to never believe in these extension workers. The extension workers tried to convince the farmers to try this crop once again but they were very angry and the Chhattisgarh farmers are still aware of that bitter experience. The extension workers dropped their plan to promote the cultivation of Beshram as green manure crop and shifted their focus on other crops and programmes. Rejected by the farmers and ignored by the extension workers, the Beshram plant occupied the moist wastelands of Chhattisgarh and in very short time, it became a problematic weed of Chhattisgarh. During my visits to Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, India, I have seen miracle effects of Beshram as green manure crop but the conditions of Punjab and Chhattisgarh are totally different. The Punjab is having rich irrigation facilities and in absence of rains, farmers can use these facilities to bury and decompose the green manure crop, timely. The concept of green manure crop is feasible for irrigated I am searching the name of responsible officer who has introduced Beshram in Chhattisgarh in 1963-64. At that time; unfortunately, the responsible officer have not consulted the ecologists about the impact of this introduction on natural biodiversity of Chhattisgarh Mr. Gaya Lal Chandrakar was very much impressed by this green manure crop initially. As per his information, he tried hard to convince the farmers to cultivate this crop but when the farmers started facing the problems, Mr. Chandrakar shocked and decided to resign from this job. Today he have no faith on research recommendations. Beshram herb as weed enjoyed the climate and freedom of Chhattisgarh. About 20 years after its introduction in Chhattisgarh, the weed scientists noticed its spread in Chhattisgarh. It is declared as problematic weed and a trend of expensive projects in the name of eradication of this weed has started. As the infestation of Beshram increased in moist wastelands due to high evapotranspiration, this herb was blamed as natural water looser. The herb has became the shelter places for many venomous creatures and poisonous insects. The domestic cattle visiting the water bodies were started getting causalities from these creatures and insects. As you know, the farming and life in Chhattisgarh are dependent on rains, the natives are using water storage ponds from decades, in order to collect the rain water for odd days. The increased infestation of Beshram in these ponds attracted the attention of common people and on the basis of its shameless nature of spread, the name Beshram ( Shameless) was given to this herb. Few years back, in my surveys I have noted that Beshram is one of the most preferred herbs by the blister causing toxic insect Orange Banded blister Beetle, Zonabris pustulata. You can seen heavy infestation of this harmful beetle in Beshram flowers. These beetles attack on the person, disturbing this herb. This is the reason the natives avoid to enter the water bodies having Beshram herb. According to the natives, Beshram is a shelter place of a typical green snake, poisonous to their cattle and the cattle die with in minutes after this snake bite. I have yet not seen this snake in Beshram infested water bodies. The cattle never prefer to eat this herb, but when accidentally they try to eat the flowers and nearer new leaves, they swallow these beetles accidentally and a single beetle is enough to kill an individual. Beshram is found as weed in almost every corner of Chhattisgarh. In natural forests, it has became a curse for aquatic herbs. Like cattle, it is harmful to the wildlife but no one has given time, to study the impact of this exotic species in natural forests of Chhattisgarh. Recently, while studying the research journals, I read that many scientists of Chhattisgarh are planning to promote the use of Beshram as green manure again in the state. Possibly these scientists, are from new generation and they are not aware of bitter experiences of Chhattisgarh farmers. The old generation of scientists have not told their mistakes to new generation but the old farmers have already warned their new generations to believe less (and be cautious) in scientific communities. Many studies on use of Dhaincha (Sesbania) as green manure crop are in progress. The funding agencies are wasting lot of money in these meaningless studies and researchers are wasting valuable time and effort. Unfortunately no one is ready to learn from past experiences. Before describing other details, I am describing the botany of this herb, I have noted from reference literatures. The scientific name of Beshram in Ipomoea carnea. It is a large, diffuse or straggling shrub with milky juice; Leaf ovate -cordate, entire, acuminate; Flower large campanulate, pale rose, pink or light violet (light violet varieties are most common in Chhattisgarh ), in lax, dichotomously branched axillary ad terminal, pedunculate cymes; Fruits glabrous capsule; Seed silky. Flowering time throughout the year. Living with this herb since many decades, the natives and traditional healers have developed many uses of Beshram. The traditional healers are aware of its harmful impact on their natural forests and bio-diversity. They have taken it as challenge and according to them the new uses of this herb can manage this herb in the state. Although the traditional healers are not aware of modern R&D methodologies and advanced equipment, but their experiments, are on. Many healers are using Beshram for the treatment of skin troubles successfully. The milky juice of Beshram is used for the treatment of Safed Dag (Leucoderma). The juice is collected and applied externally on affected parts. The traditional healers of Bastar, have focused their experiments on roots. And they are using it in different formulations. They are also trying to evaluate the medicinal properties of soil nearer to Beshram roots. In my previous articles based on my ethnomedico surveys in Oodlabari region of West Bengal, India, you will get more information on its use as pot herb (vegetable). The natives of Chhattisgarh are not aware of this use but they informed me that they have tried to use the fresh twigs, as Dataun (Herbal Tooth Brush) but not got the success. I salute these efforts and experimentation of the natives and traditional healers of Chhattisgarh. Seeing its adoptability and multiplication rate, the natives have started using Beshram as live fencing. Although it is reported that the fumes are toxic but the poor natives are using the dry stem of Beshram as fuel wood. The use of Beshram as fence is very popular in villages nearer to forests where wild herbivore animals visits to farmer’s fields in search of food and destroys the crops. The natives release the blister beetle on these live fences and when wild animals enter through these fences, the beetles attack and injure them. Many industrialist of Chhattisgarh, are using Beshram along with Typha to treat polluted tanks. In many places it is used for thatching purposes. The farmers aware of its slow decomposition nature, are collecting its leaves and decaying it in compost pit for preparation of green manure. According to them, it is rather easy to decompose leaves as compared to the whole herb. In my allelopathic studies, I have observed the stimulatory effects of different parts of Beshram on germination and seedling of many crop seeds. When Beshram is established as weed in literatures related to weed science, surprisingly and suddenly in research papers and reports the flood of the findings related to its harmful effects have started. Every one is blaming the Beshram as harmful herb and no one is ready to accept this fact that is also a nature’s gift to humankind. In my Allelopathy field, surprisingly no one has reported the stimulatory allelopathic effects of Beshram, although a lot of work have been done on this herb. This is a wrong trend in research that the researchers follow blindly the published works. If any scientist reports that this herb is harmful, every one writes yes it is harmful. This trend is both in national and international level. The honorable referees of research journals never encourage the new findings and as result the scientists manipulate the findings, because they know only data similar to early reported studies can help in publishing their work as research paper. This is really shocking and sad. When I reported the stimulatory allelopathic effects of Beshram after long struggle, suddenly the trend changed, now more and more scientists are publishing papers indicating that Beshram is really an useful allelopathic herb. I am aware that many of such studies are not genuine and data are created in rooms. Many of my farmers specially the farmers engaged in organic farming are adopting my method of Beshram utilization. In this method the farmers collect the leaves of Beshram and decay it in water in specific ratio. After decay, the extraction is performed and crop seeds are soaked in extract for 24 hours. After this soaking the farmers sow these seed without treating it with chemicals. According to the farmers, this soaking treatment enhance the germination and seedling vigor, helps crops to smoother the weeds and reduce early crop weed competition. The farmers use Beshram with other herbs and cow urine to repel away the insects and pathogens in crop fields. We are engaged to make these methods more users friendly and effective. In reference literatures, it is mentioned that Beshram is native to South America. I am expecting that the natives and traditional healers of South America must be aware of different medicinal uses (also other uses) of Beshram and interactions with the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh and South America, can help the world community to know more about this herb. Karmatta and Muscaini are popular potherbs of Chhattisgarh. Karmatta is under cultivation in many parts of Chhattisgarh particularly in urban areas. The scientific name of Karmatta is Ipomoea aquatica. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are e of medicinal properties of Karmatta bhaji and they frequently recommend it as dietary supplement to the patients particularly the female patients. The natives eat this Bhaji because of its good taste. In rural and forest areas of the state, it occurs as weed in water bodies. In urban areas, Karmatta is still popular as potherb and to fulfill the demand of urban areas, many farmers grow this herb in low lying areas along with the railway track. During my ethnomedico surveys, I have observed that its use is decreasing as educated and young natives hesitate to eat the vegetables grown in waste water. Now Karmatta is becoming "The poor man’s vegetable". In rural areas, it is a general trend that educated or person living in cities avoid to eat the vegetables found as weed in fields. This is against their "Status Symbol" and they use highly priced cultivated vegetables. In other parts of India, it is popularly known as Kalmisag or Nalinibhaji. In reference literatures related to different systems of medicine, Karmatta holds a reputed position. Its use as potherb is not described in majority of literatures. The details on medicinal properties are available. According to Ayurveda, Karmatta as medicinal herb is aphrodisiac, galactagogue, anthelmintic and useful in leucoderma, leprosy, fevers and biliousness. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh use this herb in the treatment of over 50 common diseases. I am describing its botany in short. It is a very rapid growing, aquatic, trailing or floating, herbaceous herb; stem long, hollow, rooting at nodes; leaf elliptic or ovate-oblong, cordate or hastate at base ; Flower infundibuliform, white or pale purple with a dark purple eye, solitary or five flowered cyme; fruit ovoid, smooth and 2-4 seeded capsule; seed densely pubescent. In low land paddy fields and canals, it grows naturally. For weed scientists it is one of the problematic weeds. Many agrochemicals are recommended for eradication of this weed in crop fields and canals.. As farmers are aware of the utility of this herb as vegetable, they never use chemicals to manage it. As it is common herb in different parts of India, there is no demand of different parts of this herb in national and international markets. Muscaini is known as Muscaini because its reniform leaves looks like the ears of mouse (Mus-Mouse; Kaini-Ear).Due to the shape of leaves (kidney shaped) according to the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh, it is useful in kidney related troubles. The scientific name of Muscaini is Ipomoea reniform is. Its leaves resemble the leaves of Mandukparni Centella asiatica and in confusion many collectors supply this herb in name of Mandukparni to the traders. Botanically both are entirely different species. Like Karmatta, Muscaini is also a popular pot herb. It is found as weed in Kharif (rainy) season crops and in wastelands. During my ethnomedico surveys, I have observed many biotypes of Muscaini. The traditional healers informed me that rose and yellow flowered types are common in Chhattisgarh and they use both types for preparation of drugs. The natives are strictly following this. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh told me that regular use of this herb as vegetable prevents the attack of kidney related troubles. They instruct the patients suffering from kidney troubles to eat regularly this herb. As vegetable, leaves are preferred but in many parts natives use whole plant as vegetable. In reference literatures the medicinal properties of Muscaini are described. According to Ayurveda, Muscaini is bitter, acrid and pungent and useful in treatment of kidney related troubles, pain, fevers, urethral discharges, fistula, anaemia (the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh recommend the anaemic patients to eat Muscaini and Karmatta during the season to get early relief), leucoderma and diseases of lungs, heart, abdomen, bladder and uterus. Botanically Muscaini is wasteland herb with many stems, creeping and rooting at nodes, clothed with long and dense hairs; Leaves reniform, crenate, glabrous, and with hairy petioles; Flowers yellow (rose coloured type is also found in Chhattisgarh), axillary, solitary or -3 to gather on a very short peduncle, Fruit capsule, sub globose, surrounded by ciliate sepals; seed dark coloured. As it is common wasteland herb with no demand as medicinal herb, it is not in the list of herb growers and collectors. Bhuikohla (Ipomoea digitata), Nishoth (Ipomoea turpethum) and Kaladana (Ipomoea nil) are in the list of important non wood forest produces of Chhattisgarh. There is a fair demand of all these herbs in national and international drug markets. All three are forest species. I have observed the natural occurrence of these herbs in almost every part but the Amarkantak region (Madhya Pradesh -Chhattisgarh border) and Bastar are rich in these herbs. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are aware of the medicinal properties of all three herbs. I have written about traditional medicinal knowledge Nishoth in my previous article (also the botany). You will get the details of traditional medicinal knowledge about Kaladana and Bhuikohla in my coming articles. Here I am describing the botany and reported medicinal uses of these two herbs. In other parts of India, Bhuikohla is also known as Bilaikand. In reference literatures related to botany I have found this detail. Bhuikohla is perennial herb with large and ovoid roots; stem long, thick and twinning; Leaves 10-15 cm long, deeply palmately divided, lobes 5-7 ovatelanceolate, entire, pale and glabrous; Flower in many flowered corym basely paniculate cymes : peduncle solitary axillary, purple; fruit capsule, 4-celled, enclosed in fleshy sepals ; Seeds clothed with brown hairs. According to Ayurveda roots of Bhuikohla are cooling, hard to digest, tonic, aphrodisiac galactagogue, diuretic stimulant and alterative. It is useful in leprosy, sensation, vomiting, blood diseases and hair problems. Kaladana is named because of its black (Kala in Hindi) seeds (dana). It is used as cheap purgative. The traders of Chhattisgarh are not aware of its uses. According to them there is a routine demand of this herb in markets. Most of them supply the seeds to specific pharmaceutical companies in different parts of India. The traders are not aware of its international demand. The traditional healers of Chhattisgarh are aware of its uses. Botanically Kaladana is an annual herb (found in forest floor); stems twinning, sparsely hairy; Leaves ovate-cordate, deeply three lobed, lobes ovate; Flowers in 1-5 flowered axillary cymes, bracts linear; Corolla tubular funnel shaped, blue tinged with pink; Fruits capsule, sub-globose or ovoid, 3-ceeled; seeds small and numerous. This herb is not under cultivation in Chhattisgarh. During 1993-94, when I was taking a training named rural agricultural work experience (RAWE) at Sarguja region, I got opportunity to observe the natural population of Panchpatri and its traditional uses. In this part of Chhattisgarh, Panchpatri is found as roadside and wasteland weed. The natives and traditional healers use this herb for the treatment of many common disease both internally and externally. One of the most common uses is the external application of leaves on boils and wounds to heal it early. The healers use this herb for face care. The roots are popular purgative. It is also used as veterinary medicine by the natives. The scientific name of Panchpatri is Ipomoea pes tigridis. I have seen its natural occurrence in other parts of Chhattisgarh also. Botanically it is spreading herbaceous annual; Leaves deeply palmate, hairy; Flower funnel shaped, white or pink, in axillary cymes; Fruit ovoid, papery glabrous capsule; seeds minutely velvety. Unfortunately, not much has been written in reference literatures about this herb. I am proud to write that the natives and traditional healers are using this herb for the treatment of many common disease successfully since generations. As it occurs as weed it is neither in demand nor under cultivation. The Agricultural researchers of Chhattisgarh have found the climatic condition of Bastar suitable for commercial cultivation of Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) and agricultural extension workers are now promoting its commercial cultivation in the region. The scientists working on tuberous crops of Bastar, have also collected some wild related species of sweet potato from the Bastar forests. As agricultural crop much have been mentioned and written on sweet potato, I am not describing it in detail (Contd.)