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Moringa oleifera LAM.
{{#seo:
|title=Charak Samhita
|titlemode=append
|keywords= *Shigru, Moringa oleifera LAM., Horse radish tree* Therapeutic use, herbs, researches on dravya, Charak Samhita, Dravyaguna, carakasamhitaonline, carakasamhita, caraka samhita, Ayurveda, Charak Samhita English translation, ancient Ayurveda text, Indian system of medicine, Ayurveda, Charak, Charaka Samhita, agnivesha, atreya, gopal basisht, yogesh deole, charak samhita wikipedia edition, charak samhita new edition, charaka samhita new edition, carak samhita new edition, caraka samhita new edition, research on charak samhita, text book charak samhita, fundamental principles of ayurveda, basic concepts of ayurveda,
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|image_alt=charak samhita
|type=article
}}


{{Infobox
{{Infobox
Line 7: Line 15:
|label2 = Botanical name(s)
|label2 = Botanical name(s)
|data2 = Moringa oleifera LAM.
|data2 = Moringa oleifera LAM.
|label3 = Contributors
|label3 = Family
|data3 = --
|data3 = Moringaceae
|label4 = Year of publication  
|label4 = Availability
|data4 = 2021
|data4 = Available
|label5 = Publisher  
|label5 = Contributors
|data5 = [[Charak Samhita Research, Training and Skill Development Centre]]
|data5 = [[Team Dravyaguna]]
|label6 = DOI  
|label6 = Year of publication  
|data6  = Awaited
|data6 = 2026
|label7 = Publisher  
|data7 = [[Charak Samhita Research, Training and Skill Development Centre]]
|label8 = DOI  
|data8 = Awaited
}}
}}


==English name ==
'''[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moringa_oleifera Moringa oleifera LAM.]''', popularly known as '''Shigru''' (Drumstick plant), is a fast-growing, deciduous tree native to the Indian subcontinent and cultivated across tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. It is widely revered in [[Ayurveda]] as a powerful anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and scraping (*lekhan*) drug of choice for managing painful edematous swellings, metabolic disorders, and microbial infections.


== English name ==
Horse radish tree, Drumstick plant
Horse radish tree, Drumstick plant


== Synonyms in Charak Samhita==
== Therapeutic Uses ==
Swelling (sopha), Gulma, Worms (krimiroga), Medoroga, Diseases of spleen (pliharoga), Abscess (vidradhi), Goitre (galaganda).<ref name="API1986">Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume II:69.</ref>
 
== Other Varieties / Other Botanical names ==
* Guilandina moringa L.
* Hyperanthera moringa (L.) Vahl
* Moringa pterygosperma Gaertn. nom. illeg.
 
== Botanical Profile & Traditional Context ==
In traditional medicine, Shigru is classified as a potent Vata and Kapha pacifying agent with sharp (*tikshna*) and hot (*ushna*) properties. It is exceptionally valued for clearing deep-seated tissue toxins, reducing chronic inflammation, and rectifying lipid metabolism (*medoroga*).
 
== Bhavaprakasha Nighantu ==
Mentioned 3 types<ref name="Chunekar2015">Prof. K.C. Chunekar, Bhavprakasha Nighantu, Reprint 2015, Chaukhambha Vishvabharti, Guduchyadi Varga, p. 324.</ref>
# Shweta Shigru
# Shyama Shigru
# Rakta Shigru
 
== Raja Nighantu ==
Mentioned 4 types<ref name="Tripathi2006">Dr. Indradev Tripathi, Raj Nighantu of Pandit Narahari, ed. 2006, Chaukhambha Krishnadas Academy, Varanasi; Mulakadi Varga, Verse no. 26-33, p. 193-194.</ref>
# Shigru
# Nila Shigru
# Shweta Shigru
# Rakta Shigru


Shigru, Shobhanjana, Krishnagandha, Mochaka, Tikshnagandha, Madhushigru,
== Synonyms in Charak Samhita ==
Shigru, Shobhanjana, Krishnagandha, Mochaka, Tikshnagandha, Madhushigru.


== Ayurvedic pharmacological properties ==  
== Additional Synonyms in Bhavprakasha Nighantu ==
Shobhanjana, Tikshnagandhaka, Akshiva, Maricha.<ref name="ChunekarNighantu">Prof. K.C. Chunekar, Bhavprakasha Nighantu, Reprint 2015, Chaukhambha Vishvabharti, Guduchyadi Varga, p. 324.</ref>


== Ayurvedic Pharmacological Properties ==
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Properties  
|+ Properties
|-
|-
! Sr.no. !! Pharmacological criteria !! Properties
! Sr.no. !! Pharmacological criteria !! Properties
|-
|-
| 1 || Taste ([[rasa]]) || Pungent (katu), Bitter (tikta)
| 1 || Taste ([[rasa]]) || Pungent (katu), Bitter (tikta)
|-
|-
| 2 || Potency ([[veerya]]) || Hot (ushna)
| 2 || Potency ([[veerya]]) || Hot (ushna)
Line 38: Line 76:
| 3 || Post digestion effect ([[vipaka]]) || Pungent (katu)
| 3 || Post digestion effect ([[vipaka]]) || Pungent (katu)
|-
|-
| 4 || Qualities ([[guna]])|| Light (laghu), Rough (ruksha), Sharp (tikshna)  
| 4 || Qualities ([[guna]]) || Light (laghu), Rough (ruksha), Sharp (tikshna)
|-
|-
| 5 || Actions ([[karma]]) || Pacify [[kapha]] and [[vata]]
| 5 || Actions ([[karma]]) || Pacify [[kapha]] and [[vata]]
|-
|}
|}


== Reference in Charak Samhita and its actions ==  
== Reference in Charak Samhita and its actions ==
 
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Herbs and their activities
|+ Herbs and their activities
|-
|-
! Sr.no. !! Reference in Charak Samhita !! Activity  
! Sr.no. !! Reference in Charak Samhita !! Activity
|-
|-
| 1 ||Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 1/116 || Shodhana (Twak) vriksha (Parisarpa, Sotha, Arsha, Dadru, Vidradhi, Galaganda, Kustha, Alaji)
| 1 || Cha.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana]] 1/116 || Shodhana (Twak) vriksha (Parisarpa, Sotha, Arsha, Dadru, Vidradhi, Galaganda, Kustha, Alaji)
|-
|-
| 2 ||Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 2/3 || Shirovirechana (Errhine therapy)
| 2 || Cha.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana]] 2/3 || Shirovirechana (Errhine therapy)
|-
|-
| 3 ||Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 2/23 || Krimighniyavagu
| 3 || Cha.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana]] 2/23 || Krimighniyavagu (gruel for worm infestation)
|-
|-
| 4 ||Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 3/4 || Churnapradeha
| 4 || Cha.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana]] 3/4 || Churnapradeha (external application)
|-
|-
| 5 ||Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(22) || Svedopagmahakashay
| 5 || Cha.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(22) || Svedopagmahakashaya (helping diaphoresis/sudation)
|-
|-
| 6 ||Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(27) || Shirovirechanopagmahakashay
| 6 || Cha.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(27) || Shirovirechanopagmahakashaya (helping nasal errhine therapy)
|-
|-
|7
| 7 || Cha.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana]] 13/10 || Sthavara Sneha Yoni (Vegetable origin of lipids)
|Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 13/10
|Sthavara Sneha Yoni (Vegetable origin of lipids)
|-
|-
|8
| 8 || Cha.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana]] 14/31 || Dravya for Nadi Sweda (fomentation)
|Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 14/31
|Dravya for Nadi Sweda
|-
|-
|9
| 9 || Cha.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana]] 14/32 || Dravya for Nadi Sweda (fomentation)
|Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 14/32
|Dravya for Nadi Sweda
|-
|-
|10
| 10 || Cha.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana]] 23/19 || Santarpanajanya vikar chikitsa (management of disease due to over nutrition)
|Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 23/19
|Santarpanajanya vikar chikitsa
|-
|-
|11
| 11 || Cha.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana]] 27/170 || Harita Varga
|Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 27/170
|Harita Varga
|-
|-
|12
| 12 || Cha.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana]] 26/84 || Viruddha ahara (unwholesome diet)
|Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 26/84
|Viruddha ahar
|-
|-
|13
| 13 || Cha.Sa. [[Nidana Sthana]] 2/4 || Nidana of raktapitta (cause for bleeding disorder)
|Cha.Sa.[[Nidana Sthana]] 2/4
|Nidana
|-
|-
|14
| 14 || Cha.Sa. [[Vimana Sthana]] 6/17 || Abhyantar Krimi Chikitsa (treatment of worms)
|Cha.Sa.[[Vimana Sthana]] 6/17
|Abhyantar Krimi Chikitsa
|-
|-
|15
| 15 || Cha.Sa. [[Vimana Sthana]] 8/135 || Vamana dravyani
|Cha.Sa.[[Vimana Sthana]] 6/17
|Abhyantar Krimi  Chikitsa
|-
|-
|16
| 16 || Cha.Sa. [[Vimana Sthana]] 8/142 || Katuskandha (group of pungent drugs)
|Cha.Sa.[[Vimana Sthana]] 8/135
|Vaman dravyani
|-
|-
|17
| 17 || Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/106 || Ingredient in Sweta-karavirapallavadhya Taila
|Cha.Sa.[[Vimana Sthana]] 8/142
|Katuskandha
|-
|-
|18
| 18 || Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/109 || Ingredient in Tiktekshvadi Taila for Abhyanga in Vata-Kaphaj Kushtha
|Cha.Sa.[[Vimana Sthana]] 8/142
|Katuskandha
|-
|-
|19
| 19 || Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/113 || Ingredient in Kanakakshiri Taila
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/106
|Ingredient in Sweta-karavirapallavadhya  Tail
|-
|-
|20
| 20 || Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/124 || Bahyaprayogarth Lepa in Vata-Kaphaj Kushtha
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/109
|Ingredient in Tiktekshvadi  Taila for Abhyang in Vata-Kaphaj Kushth
|-
|-
|21
| 21 || Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 8/79 || Ingredient in Shira-Pashva-Ansha Shula nashak lepa
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/113
|Ingredient in Kanakakshiri  Tail
|-
|-
|22
| 22 || Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 8/129 || Ingredient in Atisara nashak Khad-yush
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/124
|Bahyaprayogarth Lepa in Vata-Kaphaj Kushth
|-
|-
|23
| 23 || Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 10/33 || Ingredient in oil preparation Bahyaprayogartha
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 8/79
|Ingredient in Shira-Pashva  –Ansha Shula nashak lepa
|-
|-
|24
| 24 || Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/67 || As a Snana dravya for Bahyaprayogartha
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 8/129
|Ingredient in Atisar nashak  Khad-yush
|-
|-
|25
| 25 || Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/70 || Bahyaprayogarth Lepa in Kaphaja Shvayathu
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 10/33
|Ingredient in oil preparation Bahyaprayogartha
|-
|-
|26
| 26 || Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/72 || As an Unmardan dravya in Kaphaj Shvayathu
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/67
|As a Snan dravya for Bahyaprayogarth
|-
|-
|27
| 27 || Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 14/45 || Used in swedana kriya (fomentation)
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/70
|Bahyaprayogarth Lepa in Kaphaja Shvayathu
|-
|-
|28
| 28 || Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 17/98 || Used in yusha preparation for hikka svasa
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/72
|As an Unmardan dravya  in Kaphaj Shvayathu
|-
|-
|29
| 29 || Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 23/183 || Used in netragata visha, as an anjana prayoga
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 14/45
|Used in swedana kriya
|-
|-
|30
| 30 || Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/66 || Used in Ashmari
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 17/98
|Used in yusha  preparation for hikka svasa
|-
|-
|31
| 31 || Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/67 || Used in Ashmari
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 23/183
|Used in netragata visha, as a anjana prayoga.
|-
|-
|32
| 32 || Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/186 || Used in Kaphaja Siroroga for Avapeeda nasya
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/66
|Used in Ashmari.
|-
|-
|33
| 33 || Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/226 || As an ingredient of Kshara taila
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/67
|Used in Ashmari.
|-
|-
|34
| 34 || Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/237 || Used for aaschotana in Vataja netraroga
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/186
|Used in Kaphaja Siroroga  for Avapeeda nasya.
|-
|-
|35
| 35 || Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/240 || As an ingredient of Bruhatyadi varti
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/226
|As an ingredient of Kshara  taila.
|-
|-
|36
| 36 || Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/245 || As an ingredient of Amrutadi varti
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/237
|Used for aaschotana in  Vataja netraroga.
|-
|-
|37
| 37 || Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 27/52 || As an ingredient of Tarkaryadi Parisechana
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/240
|As an ingredient of Bruhatyadi varti.
|-
|-
|38
| 38 || Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 27/54 || As an ingredient of Vatsakadi Pralepa
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/245
|As an ingredient of Amrutadi varti.
|-
|-
|39
| 39 || Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 27/56 || As an ingredient of Shyonakdi Parisheka and Pralepa
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 27/52
|As an ingredient of  Tarkaryadi Parisechana
|-
|-
|40
| 40 || Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/130 || As an ingredient of Triphaladi maha sneha
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 27/54
|As an ingredient of Vatsakadi Pralepa
|-
|-
|41
| 41 || Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/168 || As an ingredient of Mulakadhya taila
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 27/56
|As an ingredient of Shyonakdi Parisheka and Pralepa
|-
|-
|42
| 42 || Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/176 || As an ingredient of Mulaka taila
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/130
|As an ingredient of Triphaladi maha sneha.
|-
|43
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/168
|As an ingredient of Mulakadhya taila.
|-
|44
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/176
|As an ingredient of Mulaka taila.
|}
|}


== Dose ==
* Swarasa (Juice): 10–20 ml.<ref name="API1986"/>
== Important Formulations ==
As per A.P.I.<ref name="API1986"/>
* Ratnagiri Rasa
* Vishatinduka Taila
* Ekangavira Rasa
== Current Availability ==
Available
* In India: Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab, Odisha, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh.
* Out of India: Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Africa (Kenya, Nigeria, Ethiopia), South America (Brazil, Peru, Venezuela), Southern parts of United States, Saudi Arabia.
== Phytochemical Composition ==
The therapeutic value of *Moringa oleifera* is attributed to its rich array of bioactive secondary metabolites distributed across leaves, seeds, and bark:
* '''Glucosinolates and Isothiocyanates:''' High concentrations of mairongin and pterYGOSPERMIN derivatives providing strong antimicrobial action.
* '''Flavonoids and Phenolic Acids:''' Quercetin, kaempferol, and chlorogenic acid offering potent antioxidant properties.
* '''Essential Amino Acids and Vitamins:''' Abundant proteins, carotenoids, and ascorbic acid.
== Pharmacological Activities & Therapeutic Efficacy ==
=== Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Edematous Actions ===
* '''Mechanism:''' Isothiocyanates and flavonoids suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines and inhibit inflammatory pathways, effectively reducing swelling (*sopha*) and deep-seated tissue inflammation.
* '''Scientific Evidence:''' Pre-clinical studies validate that bark and leaf extracts successfully curb acute and chronic edema models.<ref name="Murugan2011">{{cite journal |last1=Murugan |first1=K. |last2=Pari |first2=L. |year=2011 |title=Antihyperglycemic and antioxidant effect of Moringa oleifera leaves on inflammatory parameters |journal=Journal of Ethnopharmacology |volume=135 |issue=2 |pages=310–315}}</ref>
=== Antimicrobial and Anthelmintic Efficacy ===
* '''Mechanism:''' Pterygospermin and related active principles disrupt microbial cell membranes and metabolic functions, combating bacterial strains and internal parasites (*krimiroga*).
* '''Scientific Evidence:''' Laboratory evaluations demonstrate powerful inhibitory effects against multi-drug resistant pathogens and common dermatophytes.<ref name="Eilert1981">{{cite journal |last1=Eilert |first1=U. |last2=Wolters |first2=B. |last3=Nahrstedt |first3=A. |year=1981 |title=The antibiotic principle of seeds of Moringa oleifera and Moringa stenopetala |journal=Planta Medica |volume=42 |issue=1 |pages=55–61}}</ref>
== Safety, Toxicity, and Dosage ==
* '''Precautions:''' Due to its hot potency and uterine stimulant effects associated with root extracts, internal use during pregnancy should be avoided unless strictly monitored by a professional.


 
== Current availability==


Available
== Summary of Therapeutic Profile ==
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align: left;"
|+ Therapeutic Applications of *Moringa oleifera*
! Indication
! Active Biomolecules
! Primary Pharmacological Action
|-
| '''Inflammatory Swelling (Sopha)'''
| Isothiocyanates, Quercetin
| Anti-inflammatory, Anti-edematous
|-
| '''Worm Infestation (Krimiroga)'''
| Pterygospermin, Glucosinolates
| Anthelmintic, Antimicrobial
|-
| '''Metabolic Disorders (Medoroga)'''
| Phenolic acids, Flavonoids
| Lipid-lowering, Antioxidant
|}


== Current researches ==
== References ==
{{Reflist|refs=
<ref name="API1986">Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume II:69.</ref>
<ref name="Chunekar2015">Prof. K.C. Chunekar, Bhavprakasha Nighantu, Reprint 2015, Chaukhambha Vishvabharti, Guduchyadi Varga, p. 324.</ref>
<ref name="Tripathi2006">Dr. Indradev Tripathi, Raj Nighantu of Pandit Narahari, ed. 2006, Chaukhambha Krishnadas Academy, Varanasi; Mulakadi Varga, Verse no. 26-33, p. 193-194.</ref>
<ref name="ChunekarNighantu">Prof. K.C. Chunekar, Bhavprakasha Nighantu, Reprint 2015, Chaukhambha Vishvabharti, Guduchyadi Varga, p. 324.</ref>
<ref name="Murugan2011">{{cite journal |last1=Murugan |first1=K. |last2=Pari |first2=L. |year=2011 |title=Antihyperglycemic and antioxidant effect of Moringa oleifera leaves on inflammatory parameters |journal=Journal of Ethnopharmacology |volume=135 |issue=2 |pages=310–315}}</ref>
<ref name="Eilert1981">{{cite journal |last1=Eilert |first1=U. |last2=Wolters |first2=B. |last3=Nahrstedt |first3=A. |year=1981 |title=The antibiotic principle of seeds of Moringa oleifera and Moringa stenopetala |journal=Planta Medica |volume=42 |issue=1 |pages=55–61}}</ref>
}}


[[Category: Database of herbs and minerals | Herbs]]
[[Category: Database of herbs and minerals | Herbs]]
  This article is under development ..

Latest revision as of 17:38, 28 September 2026


Shigru
Section/Chapter Herb database/Shigru
Botanical name(s) Moringa oleifera LAM.
Family Moringaceae
Availability Available
Contributors Team Dravyaguna
Year of publication 2026
Publisher Charak Samhita Research, Training and Skill Development Centre
DOI Awaited

Moringa oleifera LAM., popularly known as Shigru (Drumstick plant), is a fast-growing, deciduous tree native to the Indian subcontinent and cultivated across tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. It is widely revered in Ayurveda as a powerful anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and scraping (*lekhan*) drug of choice for managing painful edematous swellings, metabolic disorders, and microbial infections.

English name

Horse radish tree, Drumstick plant

Therapeutic Uses

Swelling (sopha), Gulma, Worms (krimiroga), Medoroga, Diseases of spleen (pliharoga), Abscess (vidradhi), Goitre (galaganda).[1]

Other Varieties / Other Botanical names

  • Guilandina moringa L.
  • Hyperanthera moringa (L.) Vahl
  • Moringa pterygosperma Gaertn. nom. illeg.

Botanical Profile & Traditional Context

In traditional medicine, Shigru is classified as a potent Vata and Kapha pacifying agent with sharp (*tikshna*) and hot (*ushna*) properties. It is exceptionally valued for clearing deep-seated tissue toxins, reducing chronic inflammation, and rectifying lipid metabolism (*medoroga*).

Bhavaprakasha Nighantu

Mentioned 3 types[2]

  1. Shweta Shigru
  2. Shyama Shigru
  3. Rakta Shigru

Raja Nighantu

Mentioned 4 types[3]

  1. Shigru
  2. Nila Shigru
  3. Shweta Shigru
  4. Rakta Shigru

Synonyms in Charak Samhita

Shigru, Shobhanjana, Krishnagandha, Mochaka, Tikshnagandha, Madhushigru.

Additional Synonyms in Bhavprakasha Nighantu

Shobhanjana, Tikshnagandhaka, Akshiva, Maricha.[4]

Ayurvedic Pharmacological Properties

Properties
Sr.no. Pharmacological criteria Properties
1 Taste (rasa) Pungent (katu), Bitter (tikta)
2 Potency (veerya) Hot (ushna)
3 Post digestion effect (vipaka) Pungent (katu)
4 Qualities (guna) Light (laghu), Rough (ruksha), Sharp (tikshna)
5 Actions (karma) Pacify kapha and vata

Reference in Charak Samhita and its actions

Herbs and their activities
Sr.no. Reference in Charak Samhita Activity
1 Cha.Sa. Sutra Sthana 1/116 Shodhana (Twak) vriksha (Parisarpa, Sotha, Arsha, Dadru, Vidradhi, Galaganda, Kustha, Alaji)
2 Cha.Sa. Sutra Sthana 2/3 Shirovirechana (Errhine therapy)
3 Cha.Sa. Sutra Sthana 2/23 Krimighniyavagu (gruel for worm infestation)
4 Cha.Sa. Sutra Sthana 3/4 Churnapradeha (external application)
5 Cha.Sa. Sutra Sthana 4/9(22) Svedopagmahakashaya (helping diaphoresis/sudation)
6 Cha.Sa. Sutra Sthana 4/9(27) Shirovirechanopagmahakashaya (helping nasal errhine therapy)
7 Cha.Sa. Sutra Sthana 13/10 Sthavara Sneha Yoni (Vegetable origin of lipids)
8 Cha.Sa. Sutra Sthana 14/31 Dravya for Nadi Sweda (fomentation)
9 Cha.Sa. Sutra Sthana 14/32 Dravya for Nadi Sweda (fomentation)
10 Cha.Sa. Sutra Sthana 23/19 Santarpanajanya vikar chikitsa (management of disease due to over nutrition)
11 Cha.Sa. Sutra Sthana 27/170 Harita Varga
12 Cha.Sa. Sutra Sthana 26/84 Viruddha ahara (unwholesome diet)
13 Cha.Sa. Nidana Sthana 2/4 Nidana of raktapitta (cause for bleeding disorder)
14 Cha.Sa. Vimana Sthana 6/17 Abhyantar Krimi Chikitsa (treatment of worms)
15 Cha.Sa. Vimana Sthana 8/135 Vamana dravyani
16 Cha.Sa. Vimana Sthana 8/142 Katuskandha (group of pungent drugs)
17 Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 7/106 Ingredient in Sweta-karavirapallavadhya Taila
18 Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 7/109 Ingredient in Tiktekshvadi Taila for Abhyanga in Vata-Kaphaj Kushtha
19 Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 7/113 Ingredient in Kanakakshiri Taila
20 Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 7/124 Bahyaprayogarth Lepa in Vata-Kaphaj Kushtha
21 Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 8/79 Ingredient in Shira-Pashva-Ansha Shula nashak lepa
22 Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 8/129 Ingredient in Atisara nashak Khad-yush
23 Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 10/33 Ingredient in oil preparation Bahyaprayogartha
24 Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 12/67 As a Snana dravya for Bahyaprayogartha
25 Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 12/70 Bahyaprayogarth Lepa in Kaphaja Shvayathu
26 Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 12/72 As an Unmardan dravya in Kaphaj Shvayathu
27 Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 14/45 Used in swedana kriya (fomentation)
28 Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 17/98 Used in yusha preparation for hikka svasa
29 Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 23/183 Used in netragata visha, as an anjana prayoga
30 Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 26/66 Used in Ashmari
31 Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 26/67 Used in Ashmari
32 Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 26/186 Used in Kaphaja Siroroga for Avapeeda nasya
33 Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 26/226 As an ingredient of Kshara taila
34 Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 26/237 Used for aaschotana in Vataja netraroga
35 Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 26/240 As an ingredient of Bruhatyadi varti
36 Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 26/245 As an ingredient of Amrutadi varti
37 Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 27/52 As an ingredient of Tarkaryadi Parisechana
38 Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 27/54 As an ingredient of Vatsakadi Pralepa
39 Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 27/56 As an ingredient of Shyonakdi Parisheka and Pralepa
40 Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 28/130 As an ingredient of Triphaladi maha sneha
41 Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 28/168 As an ingredient of Mulakadhya taila
42 Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 28/176 As an ingredient of Mulaka taila

Dose

  • Swarasa (Juice): 10–20 ml.[1]

Important Formulations

As per A.P.I.[1]

  • Ratnagiri Rasa
  • Vishatinduka Taila
  • Ekangavira Rasa

Current Availability

Available

  • In India: Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab, Odisha, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh.
  • Out of India: Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Africa (Kenya, Nigeria, Ethiopia), South America (Brazil, Peru, Venezuela), Southern parts of United States, Saudi Arabia.

Phytochemical Composition

The therapeutic value of *Moringa oleifera* is attributed to its rich array of bioactive secondary metabolites distributed across leaves, seeds, and bark:

  • Glucosinolates and Isothiocyanates: High concentrations of mairongin and pterYGOSPERMIN derivatives providing strong antimicrobial action.
  • Flavonoids and Phenolic Acids: Quercetin, kaempferol, and chlorogenic acid offering potent antioxidant properties.
  • Essential Amino Acids and Vitamins: Abundant proteins, carotenoids, and ascorbic acid.

Pharmacological Activities & Therapeutic Efficacy

Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Edematous Actions

  • Mechanism: Isothiocyanates and flavonoids suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines and inhibit inflammatory pathways, effectively reducing swelling (*sopha*) and deep-seated tissue inflammation.
  • Scientific Evidence: Pre-clinical studies validate that bark and leaf extracts successfully curb acute and chronic edema models.[5]

Antimicrobial and Anthelmintic Efficacy

  • Mechanism: Pterygospermin and related active principles disrupt microbial cell membranes and metabolic functions, combating bacterial strains and internal parasites (*krimiroga*).
  • Scientific Evidence: Laboratory evaluations demonstrate powerful inhibitory effects against multi-drug resistant pathogens and common dermatophytes.[6]

Safety, Toxicity, and Dosage

  • Precautions: Due to its hot potency and uterine stimulant effects associated with root extracts, internal use during pregnancy should be avoided unless strictly monitored by a professional.


Summary of Therapeutic Profile

Therapeutic Applications of *Moringa oleifera*
Indication Active Biomolecules Primary Pharmacological Action
Inflammatory Swelling (Sopha) Isothiocyanates, Quercetin Anti-inflammatory, Anti-edematous
Worm Infestation (Krimiroga) Pterygospermin, Glucosinolates Anthelmintic, Antimicrobial
Metabolic Disorders (Medoroga) Phenolic acids, Flavonoids Lipid-lowering, Antioxidant

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume II:69.
  2. ↑ Prof. K.C. Chunekar, Bhavprakasha Nighantu, Reprint 2015, Chaukhambha Vishvabharti, Guduchyadi Varga, p. 324.
  3. ↑ Dr. Indradev Tripathi, Raj Nighantu of Pandit Narahari, ed. 2006, Chaukhambha Krishnadas Academy, Varanasi; Mulakadi Varga, Verse no. 26-33, p. 193-194.
  4. ↑ Prof. K.C. Chunekar, Bhavprakasha Nighantu, Reprint 2015, Chaukhambha Vishvabharti, Guduchyadi Varga, p. 324.
  5. ↑ Murugan, K.; Pari, L. (2011). "Antihyperglycemic and antioxidant effect of Moringa oleifera leaves on inflammatory parameters". Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 135 (2): 310–315. 
  6. ↑ Eilert, U.; Wolters, B.; Nahrstedt, A. (1981). "The antibiotic principle of seeds of Moringa oleifera and Moringa stenopetala". Planta Medica. 42 (1): 55–61. 
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