DARUHARIDRA [BERBERIS ARISTATA], LIVER ELIXIR, CASE STUDY AND DESCRIPTION

Berberis aristata DC. Syst. nat. 2:8. 1821
Family: Berberidaceae Juss.
Ayurved Name: Daruharidra, Rasanjan [extract] [Bhavprakash]
Hindi Name: Daruhaldi, Rasaut [extract]
Description: http://nlam.in/plant.php?0bb4aec1710521c12ee76289d9440817

Adulterant: 
Coscinium fenestratum (Gaertn.) Colebr.Trans. Linn. Soc. London 13(1):65. 1821
Local Name: Muramanjal, Marmanjal
Description: http://nlam.in/plant.php?9de6d14fff9806d4bcd1ef555be766cd

CANNABIS, AYURVEDA, HISTORY & MEDICINE, DETAILED INSIGHTS

Cannabis (Hemp/ Marijuana) plant is gaining interest due to its medicinal usage in chronic & debilitating disorders like Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Fibromyalgia (FM) to many form of cancers which have been pushed to complete remission with its use. The medicinal preparations are vivid and mostly related to usage of its active contents of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), Cannabidiol (CBD) and other Cannabinoids (around 84) which are extracted and utilized in many preparations from this plant. With renewed interest in this plant worldwide let us describe its preparations and usage in details to get a better understanding of varied terms associated with it.

Cannabis genus comprises of  3 species  

Cannabis sativa Linn., Sp. Pl. 1027. 1753
Cannabis indica Lam., Encyc. 1 (2): 695. 1785.
Cannabis ruderalis Janisch

Botanically all the three species are differentiated on some certain cues as due to interbreeding and domestication many phenotype variations have cropped up adding to confusion of Cannabis species. 

Cannabis Sativa



Tall (6-18ft)
Long thin leaves
Sparsely branched
Long inter-nodes
Central Asia and Central Europe
High THC , Low CBD
(as comp to C.indica)
 


Cannabis indica





 



Short (4-5ft)
Dense branching
Dark green short broad leavesShort inter-nodesFlowering determined by daylight it receives.
Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, NepalHigh CBD Low THC
(as comp to C.sativa) 







Cannabis rudrealis

 




Short (1-2 ft)
Sparsely branched,
Flowers (Auto) independent of light received
Siberia but now naturalized all over world including AntarcticaLow THC, Moderate CBD
(hence used by some weed makers for medic maijuana)







 
So we can ascertain that only C.sativa &  C.indica are the true source of Medical Cannabis. Historical records inform that  Cannabis indica was not regarded as separate species  and was identified as Cannabis sativa forma indica, before it was established as an independent species in 1785 by  Jean-Baptiste Lamarck  which was further supported by Schultes and Anderson who documented striking morphological differences in leaf and plant sizes between the two species. The origin of this species is traced to the Hindu Kush mountains in current Afghanistan. The Afghan species C.afghani also known as Kush is samle as C.indica but grows around 3000mts.

C.sativa and C.indica have both been used to create medicine and recreational drugs with individual prejudices and preferences which have altered the economics of preparations. On medicinal use the Cannabis indica is supposed to have better physical and brain activity than C.sativa owing to its higher content of CBD which effect the THC content in synergism giving an overall controlled effect. The C.sativa has higher THC content than CBD which for most parts does not work the same way. However these differences appeal to specific medicinal use and must be considered while preparing medication.On brief note Cannabis Sativa produces more fibre and oil while the Cannabis indica produces more resin (which is most valued part).

PHARMACOLOGY
The principal psychoactive constituent of cannabis is Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC); it is one of 483 known compounds in the plant, including at least 84 other cannabinoids, such as cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) and cannabigerol (CBG).

AYURVED NAMES : Vijaya (Bhavprakash Nighantu)(C.indica)
ENGLISH: Indian Hemp (C.indica), Hemp (C.sativa), Marijuana, Hash (resin)
HINDI:Ganja (unfertilized flower and fruit tops with resin), Bhang (Leaves, stems), Charas/Hashish(Resin)

HISTORICAL/TRADITIONAL PREPARATIONS OF CANNABIS

GAANJA
The flowering and fruiting tops of female Cannabis plant contain resin. When these tops are collected without any expulsion of resin it constitutes the raw material of Gaanja. In brief the flowers and fruits become  covered with an exudate resin which hinders it to set its seeds free preventing fertilization. This narcotic principle which is only developed in the Ganja in the unfertilized flowers entirely disappears after fertilization has taken place.Earlier times Gaanja used to be collected from wild plants which was considered superior, but after Cannabis ban of 1980, Gaanja is collected only from cultivated plants in India under government control (Maharashtra, Bengal) whose seeds are sourced from Himachal Pradesh for its high quality.  The three varieties Bombay Ganja (flat), Bengal Ganja (round) and Chur (powdered) have differences in the way they are trampled post collection to roll into cakes. The Chur variety is considered best by some while few consider the Bombay Ganja variety to be supreme.

 
USE AS RECREATION
Gaanja is used as recreational drug for smoking. 1-2gm of ganja and little tobacco is mixed with water and rubbed in palm with thumb for a short period till it becomes sticky. A clay pipe known as Chillum is used in which the prepared ganja is placed sandwiched between small amount of Tobacco which is   set to fire and smoked. Generally this is done in a group of 4-5 where each one takes turn at smoking. This ritual is often associated with ascetic and Tantrik cults where Naga and Aghori sadhus are seen smoking Gaanja and going in state of trance.  It is also used by sadhus such as Jogis, Bairagis and Muslim Fakirs. A sweet made by mixing Gaanja with seeds of Black Dhatura and sugar is used by criminals to drug people

TRADITIONAL & FOLK MEDICINAL USES OF GAANJA
Gaanja for most parts is highly medicinal and has been used by Ayurved healers to treat variety of disorders. Gaanja is an excellent brain tonic and therapeutic in all disorders of brain and nervous tissue. It is a stimulant, analgesic, sedative, appetizer, diuretic, increases serration of digest enzymes, euphoric, anti phlegm, haemostyptic, uterine contractor, aphrodisiac, tonic, reduces peripheral sensation of skin. In high doses it causes delusion and causes loss of sensation of extremities, dilates pupils and causes heavy sedation. Post sedation it generates extreme appetite. In high doses it is good anesthetic and in earlier times (even as of present) certain local healers use it as an anesthetic for teeth extraction and to make small incisions. Smoking Gaanja in controlled quantities is highly useful to treat dry cough and asthma as it reduces inflammation of  alveoli in the lungs clearing inflamed pathways. Application of Gaanja paste reduces itching and burning in disorders like psoriasis. Gaanja is highly effective to treat uterine disorders like excessive bleeding and ovarian cyst. It being a good uterine contractor helps arrest bleeding. It has beneficial action on ovary, reduces cysts, tumors and promotes good egg quality. It should not be used in pregnant women unless at times of labor as it may induce abortions. Gaanja is an aphrodisiac. Its action occurs through brain and spinal responses which increases the flow to the male organ . Additionally it decreases consciousness in controlled manner so the person can retain erection and elongate ejaculation. Aghori, Nath sadhus indulging in sex rituals have been known to apply Gaanja on penis to delay and control ejection. Similarly Ganja aids women in delaying and controlling orgasms and relieving reproductive stress. Its controlled use with Tantra exercises helps achieve higher level of consciousness though there is a thin line between use and abuse. Historically Gaanja has been one of the safest medicines with no reported deaths with its use or abuse. Gaanja becomes useless as it ages and hence must always be used fresh


BHAANG

Bhaang (Siddbi, Suhji,Patti)is an obscure term with no definite definition  of what it constitutes specifically as lost to history. Many times Bhaang and Gaanja are used synonymously so much that the term Bhaang in North india most times includes  Gaanja while in South-India the use of term Gaanja is synonymous as inclusive of Bhaang . To derive precise allocation from history and folk data, Bhaang refers to mixture of fresh or semi- dried (shade dried)leaves along with the stems of the  female Cannabis plant only, but present definition of Bhaang includes dried leaves of both male and female plants with occasional inclusion of female flower head and sometimes the male flower as adulteration. Flowers may have been added to increase the narcotic action of Bhaang to improve commerce. Sticking to historical data and usage, it seems highly probable that Bhaang is referred to collection of wet /semi-dried leaves and stems of female Cannabis plant.

USE AS RECREATION
On applicative scale the term Bhaang is  associated with milk based drink made from the leaves of Cannabis plant. The leaves are collected or separated by pounding the entire plant (shade dried) against a block of wood. This Bhaang is famously used in preparation of Thandai (a milk product made from Bhang, poppy almonds etc) used during festival of Holi (colour festival). This drink  causes the person to sing, and dance, to talk much, to eat food with great relish and to seek aphrodisiac enjoyments.   The intoxication lasts about 3 hours when sleep supervenes.   No nausea or sickness of stomach follows, nor are the bowels at all affected ; Next day there is slight giddiness and redness of the eyes, but no other symptoms worth recording. Ghota, a similar preparation with slight variation is drunk  by Bairagis, Gosavi community especially during the Shivratri. Bhaang is never used for smoking

MEDICINAL USES OF BHAANG
Bhaang as medicine is used along with Gaanja. It has actions similar to Gaanja but its actions are more pronounced on the stomach and intestine as opposed to Gaanja whose action are more on the brain. Bhaang hence is an excellent medicine for Inflamatory Bowel Disorders (Crohns, IBS, Celiac) etc where there is diarrhea accompanied with bloating, mucus and blood. Bhaang increases urine output and is an excellent medicine to treat chronic urinary tract infections(UTI). It must however be accompanied with additional herbs in case UTI is accompanied with bleeding.The dose of the leaves is 40 grains internally. Powder of the leaves applied to fresh wounds promotes granulation. A poultice of Bhaang provides instant relief in pain when applied to local inflammations, erysipelas, neuralgic pains and even hemorrhoids. Leaves make a good snuff for lighting the head stiff with sinus infection due to its phlegm cutting properties. fresh leaf juice applied to the head removes dandruff and vermin. A few drops of warm leaf juice when instilled cure ear pains. Bhaang similar to Gaanja becomes useless as it ages and looses its virility within a year or two

CHARAS (Hashis, Hash, Nasha)
Charas is the concentrated resin extracted from the leaves and flower tops (agglutinated spikes) of female cannabis plant. Charas differs from Gaanja as being pure resin as opposed to latter which contains flower buds along with resin. There are many methods to collect Charas. The leaves and flowers are rubbed in hands and the the resin that sticks to hand is collected a method prominent in India. On other instance (Afghanistan) men dressed in leather suits or jackets run through fields of Cannabis rubbing and crushing against plants early morning after dew and whatever sticks to the coat is scrapped off for commerce. Highest quality of Charas comes from India grown in Himalayan mountains of Himachal Pradesh. The Parvati valley of this state (Kasol, Malana etc) has hence become a favorite with backpackers and once interested in commerce. Here Charas is hand harvested(illegal) which produces 7-9gm of Charas per day. The quality of Charas depends on speed of harvesting, slower the better.  The best of the lot is known as “Malana cream” & “Malana Supreme” which comes from Malana village (HP) and surroundings. This Charas possesses little taste, but has a powerful odour and is of the dark-green or brown colour which is strictly typical of Cannabis plants found above 7000ft (quality not reproduced in other altitudes, soil structure , species (C.sativa)or cultivation). This Charas is powerfully narcotic, chiefly used for its soothing properties in cases of mania and hysteria. 

USE AS RECREATION
Charas is smoked similarly on lines of Gaanja in a Chillum. The soaking end is covered with a cotton cloth which is packed  by layer of tightly packed pea sized Cannabis (Bhaang) paste as filter under a chunk of Charas. The consumption of Charas  is wrongly associated with the Tantrik cult though similar rituals are followed of chanting holy names of Lord Shiva in veneration before smoking. Tantrik sadhus historically smoke Gaanja which has high medicinal properties and less to none adverse effects as opposed to Charas which may cause dependency. Charas degrades with time as the resin dries up. Charas on its own apart from some psychedelic attributions is not used as medicine in its pure form


CLASSICAL-AYURVEDA & CANNABIS
Cannabis finds earliest mentions in Ayurved text as "Vijaya". It has been held in high esteem for its psychotropic & medicinal properties. Ayurved text describe manifestaions (biological, chemical etc) on basis of their properties . A scan of available literature describes Vijaya with following properties

Deepana (promotes secretions of enzymes), 
Pachana (digestive), 
Ruchya (stimulates olfactory & taste buds), 
Madakari (intoxicant), 
Vyavayi (quick-acting), 
Grahi (drying effect), 
Medhya (cognitive), 
Rasayana (promotes life)*

It is interesting to note that Vijaya was termed as life-promoting, a paradox considering it was listed as one of the "Upa-visha".  "Visha"  etymologically means causing distress or sadness, or symptoms opposing life. In loose translation it can be termed as posion. The manifestations which are similar to properties of Visha but cause less & immediate distress are termed as "upa-visha" [near to posions]. A scan of  classical text reveal following properties of Visha

• Laghu (light)
• Rusksha (rough)
• Ashu (quick)
• Vishad (creating distress)
• Vyavayi (quick absorbing)
• Tiskhna (potent)
• Vikasi (quick-spreading)
• Sookshma (microabsorption)
• Ushna (heat)
• Apaki (not bio-assimiliating) (sushrut)/(vagbhat)
• Anierdeshya (unfathomable actions) (charak)
• Ayaktarasa (non cognoscente of enzymatic complex) (vagbhat)
• Ashleshmchedi (sharangdhar)
• Vatakaphaharit (bhavprakash)

In simplicity all poisons were elixirs if used with logic & caution. Due to the quick acting nature of such drugs, it was understood that if their ill-effects could be mastered and their biosynthesis achieved , they would provide immense theraputic benefits. They were hence subjected to  purification method to have controlled & cognoscente bioassimilation.  The fundamental procedures; as follows

• Gomutra Nimajjana: soaking in cow urine for a prescribed period.
• Swedana :  boiling in different liquids such as milk, urine, vegetable .
• Bharjana :  frying  
• Bhavana :  maceration and/ or trituration .
• Nihsnehana : reduction of oily content .
• Kshalana :  washing  
• Nistvachikarana : removal of husk/cover

 "Cannabis " strong mention of Upa-visha & use interestingly was  not prominent till the rise & popularization of alchemy. One needs to understand that the group   memebership of  Upavishas was not constant and ranged from 7 (Rasatarangini ) slowly  adding upto 80 (Rasa-upanishad). This itself shows the consistent elaboration & pursuit to find quick acting drugs for therapeutics over a period of time. The Rasasshastra period bought to light on the many properties of Bhanga. A scan of 41 Rasagranthas & around 26 classical texts shed light on Bhanga as a processing/catalyst/formulating agent in around 157 classical preparations with theraputics indicating to almost 40 syndromes. Such was the research and acceptance of Bhanga that in the text Rasendramangala [7th-8th century] Bhanga was estemmed as single medium to do the Deeapn & Pachan samskara on Mercury. Bhanga as medicine was always used in conjunction with other herbs & subjected to pre-purifying process; most common being frying the leaves in ghee , or boiling it in milk [swedana]. 

SAFETY REGARDING USE OF CANNABIS
Cannabis through history in all its natural form is not known to have ay toxic side effects  with no death or casualties reported (especially with Gaanja) through history. However it may cause some unwanted side-effects which include a decrease in short-term memory, dry mouth, impaired motor skills, reddening of the eyes and feelings of paranoia or anxiety which are eventually reversible on withdrawal.

MODERN DERIVATIVES FROM CANNABIS

HASH OIL
Hash oil as name suggest is derived from Charas. It is one of the most potent form of medical Cannabis as it contains high content of THC. Hash oil  obtained by separating resins from Cannabis buds by solvent extraction. Most common used solvent is butane and the oil obtained is known as Butane Hash Oil (BHO) which is treated many times to free it from its solvent to get the purest form which determines its price and quality.  This oil is used for smoking, vaporizing as medicine and application. This oil is now being seen as next big thing to treat disorders like Cancers and Multiple sclerosis with many testimonial and self study of patients posted on the net. The THC is generating so much interest because of the recent discovery of nerve receptors in the brain stimulated by THC (and the cloning of the gene that gives rise to these receptors) which suggests that the body produces its own version of the substance. The receptors are found mainly in the cerebral cortex, which governs higher thinking and in the hippocampus, which is a locus of memory.The oil extracted from Indian Cannabis is most supreme as although it contains lower THC than C.sativa it has higher content of CBD which acts in synergism with THC potentiating its action manifold time.

USE AS MEDICINE
Hash oil being a synthetic derivative its dosages must be monitored. The best bet is to start with 1/2grain (equivalent to pea) 2-3 times a day and gradually increase to almost 16 pea grains per day. As tolerance develops one can increase the dose further. This dosage recommendation is for chronic inflammatory disorders like MS, Alzheimer and for cancers. It is always better to be completely informed about once medication and disorder and supervise the symptoms. One must understand that though Hash oil is a natural produce it is synthetic derivative whose concentrations are much higher. In India traditionally healers used Gaanja which is much natural form, no known side effects and much better tolerated. However due to government policies sourcing Gaanja as medicine in India is not an option, but for those who have the access in legalized states of different countries, its much better to use Gaanja as medicine rather than Hash oil. A way to use Gaanja safely is to prepare a traditional Ghee from it as per Ayurved standards to get maximum benefits of THC and also to completely kill its ill-effects. Gaanja must be cooked in 1part ghee and 2parts water till Ghee remains. One can also add 1part fresh juice of leaves and stems. This ghee must be filtered and used in a dodge of 2-3 gms 2 times a day for optimum results.

HEMP OIL/ HEMP SEED OIL
This oil is derived from seeds of Cannabis plant by cold pressing. It must be distinguished from hash oil. This oil has only industrial applications. Hemp seed oil has no THC and hence useless medicinally.

CANNABIS FLOWER ESSENTIAL OIL
This is known as Hemp essential oil and obtained by steam distillation of Cannabis flower. It is different from Hemp oil which is derived from seed. This oil also is devoid of any THC and is used as a scent in perfumes, cosmetics, soaps, and candles. It is also used as a flavoring in foods, primarily candy and beverage

SOME TERMS ASSOCIATED WITH CANNABIS

MARIJUANA
This comprises of dried flowers leaves and stems of female cannabis plant. Marijuana as collective term refers to the raw material from which all preparations of Cannabis are derived and hence is synonymous to Cannabis. On broader scale Marijuana may be considered as Bhaang or mixture of Bhang and Gaanja

KIEF
Kief is synonymous to Charas but is obtained in a different manner. The cannabis leaves and flowers are beaten on a cotton cloth which results in procurement of white/yellow powder rich in trichomes. This  is known as Kief and is consumed either in powder form or compressed to produce cakes of hashish.

GARDAA (Brown sugar)
Gardaa is made from waste leaves of Opium treated with chemicals to get high. The term Gardaa is wrongly associated with Charas . Garada is strong and abusive narcotic and is highly harmful as opposed to Charas. Many touts sell Gardaa in place of Charas and one must be aware.

CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE OF CANNABIS IN INDIA
Cannabis plant holds high reverence in Vedic literature and is considered one of the prime  5 plants or elixirs on earth. Its use in holy rituals associated with Lord Shiva by certain sects of Tantra (Aghori, Nagas, Nath) is well documented who consider it to be direct source to attain a state of liberation or Supreme consciousness (Shiva Tatva).  The legend of Shiva and cannabis can be traced in a story where it is mentioned that Lord Shiva after fighting with his family, retreated into a field where he rested under a plant , ate its leaf and fell asleep . When he awoke,he became instantly rejuvenated and henceforth Cannabis would forever be his favorite food. Shiva is often referred to as the God of Bhaang. Many view the consumption of Cannabis as a Prasad, or holy offering, to Lord Shiva. Vasudhaiva Sadhus or Indian ascetics who have turned their backs on material life, consider cannabis to be a special attribute of Shiva and use it to seek spiritual freedom. These are people that have chosen to live life wearing rags and wondering the forests and towns that make up their country. They have chosen a life of celibacy and austerity, and they use cannabis as a tool to achieve transcendence.  It would not be a true ascetic gathering without the consumption of marijuana.

CANNABIS LEGALITY IN INDIA
Historically, the consumption of cannabis was a new experience to the colonial British, who observed such a widespread use that they felt the need to conduct a study in the 1890's. Part of the motivation for this study was a fear that the extensive use would drive the population mad. In order to carry out this study the Indian Hemp Drugs Commission was created to look into the cultivation, preparation, trade, and social and moral impacts of cannabis. The final report was six volumes of data and conclusions that states that prohibiting its use was unjustifiable and that its use is harmless in moderation. They also pointed out the religious and cultural significance of the consumption of cannabis in its various forms. It also showed that alcohol was more harmful than the plant. The official Indian government’s pharmacopoeia still recognizes cannabis and as recently as 1941, it was recommended to treat a large number of ailments. Medical marijuana  was a major part of the Ayurvedic Medical system up until 1980 when the Indian Government decided to outlaw it on  recommendation of US Government in 1980 which many claim was a move to protect the interest of giant pharma companies against cheap natural medical cures. Due to this India lost one of its most potent medicine and Ayurved an very important pain killing drug which could have served as a boon in modern healthcare system.

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BRAHMAKAMAL, THE RARE LEGENDARY & MYTHICAL PLANT OF INDIA

Saussurea obvallata (Candolle) Schultz Bipontinus, Linnaea. 19: 331. 1846 
FAMILY:Asteraceae
NAME: Brahmakamal
DESCRIPTION:A small perennial herb growing up to 60 cm high. Stems erect, ribbed, hollow, usually purplish to reddish brown. Leaves are both basal and cauline; basal leaves are rosulate, petiolate, elliptic-spathulate or lanceolate, 10 – 25 × 1 – 5.5 cm, sightly broadened and sheathing at base, denticulate- cuspidate and scarious at margins, acute to obtuse or cuspidate at apex. Inflorescences with 2 to many discoid capitula, terminal, enclosed by creamy white or pale yellow involucriform bracts. Florets are bisexual. Corolla is tubular with linear-lanceolate lobes, bluish purple or violet. Cypselae are oblong or obovoid with white pappus, pale creamy, brown or greyish.
Phenology(Fl & Frt.): July – September.

Saussurea obvallata by Schultz Bipontinus precedes the currently accepted  Saussurea obvallata Edgeworth (Trans. Linn. Soc. London 20: 76. Aug 1846) by one month and hence is used as correct name

    Saussurea obvallata, Brahmakamal, Captured at Hemkund sahib



DISTRIBUTION *
Saussurea (BrahmaKamal) is the state flower of Uttarakhand. It is an endemic herb of the Himalayan region sporadically found from Pakistan To Bhutan at an altitude range of 3000–4800m. In Uttarakhand, BrahmaKamal is found in the regions of Kedarnath, the Valley of Flowers, Hemkund Sahib and Tungnath. It can be seen in its full glory at the Valley of flowers/ Hemkund Sahib  during mid-monsoon (July– August) when flowers bloom amongst the rocks and grasses of the hillside. Flower heads are purple, hidden from view in layers of yellowish- green papery bracts, which provide protection from the cold mountain environment. The flowers can be seen till mid-October, after which the plant perishes, becoming visible again in April. 
 
Brahmakamal plant holds immense sacred value in the Himalayan region of Uttarkhand where it is mostly found . Due to its spiritual significance it is offered to Lord Vishnu at Badrinath shrine and Lord Shiva at Kedarnath shrine. In September/October, during the festival of Nanda Ashtami, Brahma Kamal is offered in temples and also distributed as ‘prasada’. 

[Section contains excerpts from research article by Manu Pant and Prabhakar Semwal. Entire aticle can be accessed here]

IDENTITY ARGUMENTS
Brahma Kamal is a plant of mythological importance.Though no direct references to it are seen in the Vedas, there is legendary and spiritual folk associated with it. Brahma Kamal in brief refers to Kamal (lotus) of Brahma. Regarding this legend there are two possibilities.

• Brahma is represented in drawings as been sitting on a pink flower resembling lotus , the national flower of India. Hence many claim Lotus to be Brahma kamal. Lotus is identified botanically as Nelumbo nucifera. This theory s often discarded as the lotus plant on which Lord Brahma is supposed to be sitting is sprouted from belly of Lord Vishnu and hence cannot be associated with Lord Brahma. 
• Lord Brahma himself is represented as holding a flower in one of his four hands. This flower is colored white and is taken as the true BrahmaKamal. However the picture does not depict which associative species the flower may belong to.

Though there could be many claims to this plant of Brahma as of present 2 species are discussed as  source of BrahmaKamal

• The rare Himalayan plant, Saussurea obvallata (Candolle) Schultz 
• Night blooming Epiphyllum oxypetalum (DC.) Haworth . 

To  arrive at some conclusion let us look at some brief data abut the Brahmakamal. It is very dominant belief that one who sees this rare plant bloom will have their wishes fulfilled.  We learn further that the phenomenon of bloom is rare as the plant flowers late evening and stays in that state for few hours and this happens once in 14 years.  Solving the puzzle of the hand held flower we can come to certain conclusions from other legends which make mention of BrahmaKamal.
 

• The Mahabharata gives a reference to Draupadi who sent Bhima in quest to find an evening blooming lotus , a sight of which made her forget her immense grief of insult at the court of Kauravas. Bhima while on his quest met Hanumana who guided him towards this plant in highland Himalayas. 
• The legend of birth of Lord Ganesha  depicts that as soon as the elephant head was transplanted by Lord Shiva ,Lord Ganesha was bathed with the water sprinkled from BrahmaKamal, the plant given  to Lord Shiva by Lord Brahma himself to bestow life on  Lord Ganesha.
• It is also believed that on the revival of Lakshmana using Sanjeevani, the Gods showered BrahmaKamal from heaven in celebration near the area from where Hanumana lifted the sacred mountain , an area currently associated with the Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand state of India.

Taking in account the descriptions of its bloom and locations ascertained from historical data about Mahabharata we can ascertain the plant to be exclusive to highland Himalayas. Hence of the two discussed species, Saussurea obvallata seems to be the most nearest acceptance of Brahma Kamal. 

Epiphyllum oxypetalum plant is native to Sri lanka (Kaduphul), and is distributed through India from low lands of Maharashtra to Uttarakhand. Its a cactus which is supposed to bloom rarely at night (hence also known as orchid cactus, since orchids bloom at night) and its this rare property which has associated with the legendary Brahmakamal.

Epiphyllum oxypetalum, false BrahmaKamal, Flower  (src: wikipedia)

                          Epiphyllum oxypetalum, false BrahmaKamal, leaves (src: wikipedia)


MEDICINAL USES
S.obovallata is useful medicine  to treat fevers. The entire plant is crushed and juice is given in dose of 50ml 2 times a day Due to its bitter nature it is an excellent liver tonic and great appetiser. Soup made from this plant help cut down liver inflammations and also increase blood. Plant juice is useful to treat urinary disorders. It clears recurrent urinary tract infections and an excellent medicine for sexually transmitted diseases. The flowers, rhizomes and leaves are used for treatment of bone ache, intestinal ailments, cough/cold and urinary tract problems. The rhizomes in particular are used as antiseptic and for healing cuts and bruises. In the Tibetan system of medicine, the plant is used in the treatment of paralysis of limbs and cerebral ischaema.

CONSERVATION STATUS
Due to its mythological importance & legend associated with fulfillment of wished , this rare plant is injudiciously picked by travellers and locals which has made its numbers decline at alarming late to such an extent that once abundant in Valley of flowers now hardly any plants can be seen. People uproot the entire plant and take it to their homes in a hope that it will flower completely disregarding common sense that a high altitude plant like Sassurea would never survive at the plains.   Due to such illicit means of picking, constraints in conservation due to uncontrolled construction of settlements in ecosensitive area, an unchecked booming tourism with complete lack of planning and management has made this plant “critically endangered” and is deemed as prone to extinction which means in coming years we may not see this elusive plant in the wild.

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JADWAR, NIRVISHA, EXTREMELY RARE HIMALAYAN HERB

Delphinium denudatum Wall. ex Hook. & Thoms., Fl. Ind. 49. 1855.
FAMILY:Ranunculaceae
AYURVED NAME: Nirbisha/ Nirvisha 
ESTD.By: Dymock W, Pharmacographica Indica, Vol1
DESCRIPTION: Plant 40-80 cm high, much branched, subglabrous to strigose or spreading pubescent in the upper part. Petioles of lower leaves up to 15 cm, upper ones much shorter, leaf blade of basal leaves 5-15 mm wide, rounded, 3-5 parted into broadly obovate segments, segments pinnately and divaricately laciniate into oblong lobes or teeth 2-3 mm wide. Cauline leaves similar but smaller. Inflorescence paniculate, of few-flowered racemes. Bracts 5-15 mm, linear. Pedicels 10-40 mm, ascending, bracteoles attached near the middle of the pedicel. Sepals blue to violet, upper sepal 12-13 x 6-7 mm, ovate, acute, pubescent, spur 14-15 mm long, c. 3.5 mm wide at the base, lateral sepal 13 x 7-8 mm, oblong-ovate, rounded, pubescent on the midline, lower sepals 14-15 x 7 mm, oblong-obovate, rounded, pubescent. Upper petal white with bluish apex, limb 8-9 mm, glabrous, 2-dentate, oblique, spur 13-15 mm, lower petal blue or violet, c. 6 mm long, broadly elliptic, rounded, cleft almost to the middle, claw 5 mm. Stamens 5-6 mm. Follicles 3, 10-16 x 3-3.5 mm, sparsely strigose or subglabrous, style 2-3 mm. Seed obpyramidal, 1 mm long, dark, scales irregularly arranged, relatively long.
Phenology (Fl. & Frt.):May-August

The term Jadwar is and Arabic derivation of the Persian word Zadwar (great purifier, antidote). Persians word mah-Parvin (moon and plea ides) is synonymous with Jadwar as it blossoms in beginning of summer when plea dies rise.In India it is named as Narbasi/Nirbisi/Nirvisha as it has antidotal properties and clearly acts on Aconite poisoning. The plant occurs on the grassy slopes in western temperate Himalays, from Kumaon to Kashmir ranging at altitudes [2500-3700m].

SANDALWOOD, CHANDAN, DRY HERB INFORMATION AND VARIETIES

Santalum album Linn., Sp. Pl. 349, 1753; Almeida, FM 4: 275, 200:3.
FAMILY : Santalaceae R.Br
AYURVED NAME : Shwet Chandan, Chandan (Bhavprakash Nighantu)
ESTD.By : Chatterjee & Pakrashi
DESCRIPTION : It is a small evergreen tree with slender drooping branches, the sapwood is white and odorless, the heartwood yellowish brown and strongly scented. Leaves elliptic lanceolate, sub-acute petioles 1-1.3 cm long slender. The flowers, 5-10 mm in diameter, are mildly fragrant and purple to brownish in colour. The fruit appears within about 3-4 weeks of flowering and ripens in another 6 to 8 weeks. The fruit is globose drupe, 3-5 mm in diameter, smooth, fleshy and purple to blackish in colour. These are acrid in taste and few birds or animals eat them. The seed inside the fleshy endocarp is tiny— 6000 of them make a kilogram. Chandan is a rare cultivated tree.
Phenology (Fl. & Frt.): Feb- Mar & again in Aug - Sept


USES DOCUMENTED AND EVALUATED

Dissipates heat from the body and acts as a cooling agent (refrigerant). A self prepared sherbet from Sandalwood acts as an General tonic and immunity booster. Soak fine grated

MANGO; DELICACY & MEDICINE

Its a  Mango season in India and one cannot wait to dig into this amazing fruit. Mango fruits are cultivated on a large scale  due to their popularity and high demand.Though known for its culinary value Mango is of high medicinal importance. So while gorging this amazing fruit let us also try and take some benefits from its uses for health care.

Scientific Name : Mangifera indica Linn., Sp. Pl. 200, 1753;
Family: Anacardiaceae
Ayurved Name: Aamra (Bhavprakash), 
ESTD by: Kirtikar & Basu.
English Name: Mango

Mango is eaten by all in ways suited to their own taste and perefernces. Traditional healers from western ghats where Mango is most prominent and used in day to day life during its season  give an insight towards consumption of this fruit for maximum gain. Mango fruit is considered fit to be consumed only during the Vaishak and Jyesht months of Hindu Calender i.e. between Apil - June. The Mango stalk must be removed and soaked in water overnight in an earthen/ceramic vessel. The next day the pulp if to be eaten raw must be cut and dipped in milk for 1-2 hrs and then consumed. People who suffer from extensive heat and boils must discard this milk and only consume the fruit as the milk saps up the toxins. To enhance flavor one can refrgerate the milk-mango mixture before consumption.  In Ayurved though fruits are not recomended to be consumed with milk, Mango makes an exception and the fruit is recommended with it. Hence a Mango milkshake is a good bet. Mango juice is locally known, as Aamras is a very popular delicacy. Aamras must be consumed with ghee and cardamom and preferable from a silver vessel to get its maximum benefit. The Aamras so consumed improves blood quality and is of immense importance to infertile couples as it promotes good Ova and Sperm production. It also helps people suffering from blood disorders like leukemeia and can be used as food for medicine. People suffering from this disorders must make maximum use of this fruit during the months of Vaishakh and Jyeshtha

GORAKHMUNDI [Sphaeranthus indicus], Probable Mode of action in correction of Eyesight

Sphaeranthus indicus Linn., Sp. Pl. 927, 1753; Hook.f., FBI 3: 275, 1881; Cooke, Fl. Bombay Pres. 2:28, 1904; Almeida, Fl. Savantwadi 233, 1990; Almeida, FM 3:136, 2001. 

FAMILY : Asteraceae
ESTD. by: Mundi (Bhavprakash Nighantu), Gorakhmundi (P.R.Doshi)

DESCRIPTION: A much branched herb. stem and branches cylindric with toothed wings, glandular hairy. Leaves sessile, decurrent, obovate-oblong, spinous-serrate or dentate, narrowed at the base, rounded or sub-acute at apex. heads globose-ovoid, ebracteate on solitary, glandular peduncles, with toothed wings. Flowers purple. involucral bracts linear, pubescent, ciliate. achenes stalked, glabrous. A common plant in rice-fields and in wastelands after monsoon crop harvest.

Phenology (Fl. & Frt.): November-June.

NLAM LINK FOR NOMENCLATURE & RESEARCH

http://nlam.in/plant.php?i=ad61ab143223efbc24c7d2583be69251&c=03afdbd66e7929b125f8597834fa83a4

USES DOCUMENTED AND EVALUATED

Glands, Filariasis, Eye disorders, Neurologic disorders, Mental disorders, general health, Menstrual disorders, Malignancies

NOTES REGARDING OPTHALMIC DISORDERS 

Mundi is termed as Rasayan (Charak, Gan:Rasayan) and it acts on all three doshas as per P.V Sharma (It pacifies Vat due to its Ushna Virya, Pitta due to its Tikta Rasa and Kapha due to its Laghu Ruksha guna.) Mundi internally and externally is a very good medicine to treat disorders of eye. It improves all Indriyas and hence termed as Medhya.

PUTRAJEEVAK, THE MEDICINAL SHRUB

Drypetes roxburghii (Wall.) Hurusawa in Journ. Fac. Sc. Univ. Tokyo, sect 3, Bot. 4:335, 1954; Almeida, Fl. Savantwadi 381, 1990; Almeida, FM 4: 302, 2003.Putranjiva roxburghii Wall., Tent. Fl. Nepal 61, 1826.

Family : Euphorbiaceae Juss.
ESTD. by: Putrajeevak (Raaj Nighantu), (Kirtikar & Basu).
Description: Evergreen tree. Leaves elliptic-oblong, dark-green, coriaceous. Flowers dioecious; male flowers crowded, axillary; female flowers 1-3 together, axillary. Drupe ellipsoid, pointed at the apex.

Phenology (Fl. & Frt.):March-May.

JEEVANIYA GANA and ASHTAVARGA

The plants of Jeevaniya [inclusive of Ashtavarga, first 8 plants of the following] are considered highly medicinal but their botanical identity is disputed. The books themselves mention the use of substitutes like Ashwagandha, Shatavari in case of non availibility of this plants which term their rare nature. However interestingly the choice of substitutes like Shatavari (roots), Ashwagandha (roots), Vidarikand (sap) give us a faint guideline as to identification of this plants which may predominantly belong to the orchid and lily families. Also since their availability is depicted in cold mountains of Himalays the following plants are heavily discussed as source.