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{{#seo:
|title=Charak Samhita
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|keywords= Vidanga, Embelia ribes BURM.F., worm treatment, krimi, krimighna, obesity, 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,
|description=''Embelia ribes'' Burm. f., commonly known as '''Vidanga''' or '''False Black Pepper''', is a large, dioecious, woody climbing liana belonging to the family Myrsinaceae.
|image=http://www.carakasamhitaonline.com/resources/assets/ogimgs.jpg
|image_alt=charak samhita
|type=article
}}
Embelia ribes BURM.F.
Embelia ribes BURM.F.


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|data4 = Available
|data4 = Available
|label5 = Contributors
|label5 = Contributors
|data5 = --
|data5 = Team Dravyaguna
|label6 = Year of publication  
|label6 = Year of publication  
|data6 =  2024
|data6 =  2026
|label7 = Publisher  
|label7 = Publisher  
|data7 =  [[Charak Samhita Research, Training and Skill Development Centre]]
|data7 =  [[Charak Samhita Research, Training and Skill Development Centre]]
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}}
}}


==English name ==  
== Botanical Profile & Overview ==
''Embelia ribes'' Burm. f., commonly known as '''Vidanga''' or '''False Black Pepper''', is a large, dioecious, woody climbing liana belonging to the family Myrsinaceae.{{cite journal |last1=G. |first1=R. S. |year=2021 |title=Economic Importance and Medicinal Strength of Vidanga (Embelia ribes) : An Endangered Medicinal Plant of Western Ghats of India |journal=International Journal on Agricultural Sciences |volume=12 |issue=1 |pages=29–33 |doi=10.53390/ijas.v12i1.7}} It is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of India, particularly thriving in the Western Ghats.{{cite journal |last1=Raskar |first1=S. |last2=Purkar |first2=V. |last3=Sardesai |first3=M. |last4=Mitra |first4=S. |year=2022 |title=Assessing the Impact of Geographical Distribution and Genetic Diversity on Metabolic Profiles of a Medicinal Plant, Embelia ribes Burm. f. |journal=Plants |volume=11 |issue=21 |pages=2861 |doi=10.3390/plants11212861}} Due to its extensive commercial exploitation and high demand in traditional alternative medicine systems—such as Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha—''E. ribes'' is currently flagged as an endangered medicinal species requiring stringent conservation strategies.


--
The dried fruits (berries) are globally sought after due to their significant concentration of unique bioactive benzoquinones, rendering them highly valued in pharmacological drug design.


== Therapeutic Uses<ref>. Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume I:77.</ref>==
== Therapeutic Uses==
Colic pain (Sula), Worms (krimiroga), Abdominal diseases (udararoga), abdominal distension (adhmana)
Colic pain (Sula), Worms (krimi roga), Abdominal diseases (udara roga), abdominal distension (adhmana)<ref>Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume I:77.</ref>


==Other varieties / Other botanical names==
==Other varieties / Other botanical names==
Embelia robusta C.B.Cl.
Embelia robusta C.B.Cl.


== Synonyms in Charak Samhita==
== Synonyms in Charak Samhita==
Krimighna(kills the worms), Krimihara, Chitratandula(seed of vidang has white spots on its surface), Jantunashana(efficacious drug in case of worm infestation)
Krimighna(kills the worms), Krimihara, Chitratandula(seed of vidang has white spots on its surface), Jantunashana(efficacious drug in case of worm infestation)


== Synonyms in bhavprakasa nighantu<ref>Prof. K.C.Chunekar, Bhavprakasha Nighantu, Reprint.2015, Chaukhambha vishvabharti, Haritakyadi Varga, verse no. 111,  p.50.</ref>==
== Synonyms in bhavprakasa nighantu==
Tandul, vella(due to its delicate and flexible branches vidanga looks like a creeper), amodha
 
Tandul, vella(due to its delicate and flexible branches vidanga looks like a creeper), amodha<ref>Prof. K.C.Chunekar, Bhavprakasha Nighantu, Reprint.2015, Chaukhambha vishvabharti, Haritakyadi Varga, verse no. 111,  p.50.</ref>


== Ayurvedic pharmacological properties ==  
== Ayurvedic pharmacological properties ==  
Line 68: Line 82:
| 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(gruel worm infestation)
| 3 ||Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 2/23 || Krimighni yavagu(gruel worm infestation)
|-
|-
| 4 ||Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 3/3  || Siddhatamachurnapradeha
| 4 ||Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 3/3  || Siddhatama churna pradeha
|-
|-
| 5 ||Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 5/64  || Anu tailadravya
| 5 ||Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 5/64  || Anu taila dravya
|-
|-
| 6 ||Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(11)  || Truptighnamahakashay(anti-satiety)
| 6 ||Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(11)  || Truptighn amahakashaya(anti-satiety)
|-
|-
| 7 ||Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(13)  || Kushthaghnamahakashay(anti-dermatosis)
| 7 ||Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(13)  || Kushthaghna mahakashaya(anti-dermatosis)
|-
|-
| 8 ||Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(15)  || Krimighnamahakashay(anti-helmintics)
| 8 ||Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(15)  || Krimighna mahakashaya(anti-helmintics)
|-
|-
| 9 ||Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(27)  || Shirovirechanopagmahakashay( helping nasal errhine therapy)
| 9 ||Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(27)  || Shirovirechanopag mahakashaya(helping nasal errhine therapy)
|-
|-
|10 ||Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 21/23  
|10 ||Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 21/23  
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|-
|-
|21
|21
|Cha.Sa[[Sharira Sthana]] 8/41
|Cha.Sa. [[Sharira Sthana]] 8/41
|Prajata stree  paricharya
|Prajata stree  paricharya
|-
|-
Line 161: Line 175:
|30
|30
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 5/144
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 5/144
|Ingredient in Bhallatakadya  Ghrit for Kaphaj Gulma
|Ingredient in Bhallatakadya  Ghrita for Kaphaj Gulma
|-
|-
|31
|31
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 6/27
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 6/27
|Used for making decoction in Kaphaj prameh
|Used for making decoction in Kaphaja prameh
|-
|-
|32
|32
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 6/28
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 6/28
|Used for making decoction in Kaphaj prameh
|Used for making decoction in Kaphaja prameh
|-
|-
|33
|33
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|38
|38
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/105
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/105
|Ingredient in Sweta-karaviradhya  Tail
|Ingredient in Sweta-karaviradhya  Taila
|-
|-
|39
|39
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/106
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/106
|Ingredient in Sweta-karavirapallavadhya  Tail
|Ingredient in Sweta-karavirapallavadhya  Taila
|-
|-
|40
|40
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/109
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/109
|Ingredient in Tiktekshvadi  Tail
|Ingredient in Tiktekshvadi  Taila


For Abhyang in Vata-Kaphaj  Kushth
For Abhyang in Vata-Kaphaj  Kushth
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|41
|41
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/111
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/111
|Ingredient in Kanakakshiri  Tail
|Ingredient in Kanakakshiri  Taila
|-
|-
|42
|42
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|43
|43
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/153
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/153
|Ingredient in Mahakhadir Ghrit
|Ingredient in Mahakhadir Ghrita
|-
|-
|44
|44
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|46
|46
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/160
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/160
|Kushthahar Yog
|Kushthahar Yoga
|-
|-
|47
|47
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/161
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/161
|Kushthahar Yog
|Kushthahar Yoga
|-
|-
|48
|48
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|49
|49
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 9/37
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 9/37
|Ingredient in Kalyanak  Ghrit
|Ingredient in Kalyanak  Ghrita
|-
|-
|50
|50
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 9/42
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 9/42
|Ingredient in Mahakalyanak  Ghrit
|Ingredient in Mahakalyanak  Ghrita
|-
|-
|51
|51
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|54
|54
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/72
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/72
|As an Unmardan dravya  in Kaphaj Shvayathu
|As an Unmardan dravya  in Kaphaja Shvayathu
|-
|-
|55
|55
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|63
|63
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/88
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/88
|As an  ingredient of pancamuladhya ghrit evum churna
|As an  ingredient of pancamuladhya ghrita evum churna
|-
|-
|64
|64
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|77
|77
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/52
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/52
|As an ingredient  of vidangadi leha.
|As an ingredient  of vidangadi leha
|-
|-
|78
|78
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/174  
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/174  
|As an ingredient  of padmakadi leha.
|As an ingredient  of padmakadi leha
|-
|-
|79
|79
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/178
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/178
|As an ingredient  of jivantyadi leha.
|As an ingredient  of jivantyadi leha
|-
|-
|80
|80
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|81
|81
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/52
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/52
|As an ingredient  of vidangadi leha.
|As an ingredient  of vidangadi leha
|-
|-
|82
|82
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/174  
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/174  
|As an ingredient  of padmakadi leha.
|As an ingredient  of padmakadi leha
|-
|-
|83
|83
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/178
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/178
|As an ingredient  of jivantyadi leha.
|As an ingredient  of jivantyadi leha
|-
|-
|84
|84
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/182
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/182
|As an ingredient  of yavagu.
|As an ingredient  of yavagu
|-
|-
|85
|85
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|87
|87
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 20/37
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 20/37
|As an ingredient  of Kaphaja chhardihara yoga.
|As an ingredient  of Kaphaja chhardihara yoga
|-
|-
|88
|88
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 21/137
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 21/137
|As an ingredient  of Kampillakadi taila.
|As an ingredient  of Kampillakadi taila
|-
|-
|89
|89
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 23/57
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 23/57
|As an ingredient of Mrita sanjivani agada.
|As an ingredient of Mrita sanjivani agada
|-
|-
|90
|90
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 25/90
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 25/90
|As an ingredient of Kampillakadi taila.
|As an ingredient of Kampillakadi taila
|-
|-
|91
|91
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/13   
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/13   
|Used to make Udavarta  varti.
|Used to make Udavarta  varti
|-
|-
|92
|92
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/20
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/20
|As an ingredient of  Dviruttarahingvadi churna.
|As an ingredient of  Dviruttarahingvadi churna
|-
|-
|93
|93
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/101
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/101
|Used in Hrudshoola.
|Used in Hrudshoola
|-
|-
|94
|94
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/152
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/152
|Used in Kaphaja  Pratishyaya for pradhamana.
|Used in Kaphaja  Pratishyaya for pradhamana
|-
|-
|95
|95
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/153
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/153
|As an ingredient of  Bhargyadi taila.
|As an ingredient of  Bhargyadi taila
|-
|-
|96
|96
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/184
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/184
|Used in Kaphaja Siroroga  for Pradhamana nasya.
|Used in Kaphaja Siroroga  for Pradhamana nasya
|-
|-
|97
|97
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/252
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/252
|As an ingredient of  Sukhavati varti.
|As an ingredient of  Sukhavati varti
|-
|-
|98
|98
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/254
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/254
|As an ingredient of  Drustiprada varti.
|As an ingredient of  Drustiprada varti
|-
|-
|99
|99
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 29/152
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 29/152
|As an ingredient of Triphaladi kalka in tridoshaja shola.
|As an ingredient of Triphaladi kalka in tridoshaja shola
|-
|-
|}
|}


==Dose<ref>Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume I:77.</ref>==
==Dose==
Churna – 5 – 10 gm
Churna – 5 – 10 gm<ref>Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume I:77.</ref>


==Important formulations<ref>Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume I:77.</ref>==
==Important formulations==
As per A.P.I.<ref>Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume I:77.</ref>
* Vidangarishta
* Vidangarishta
* Vidanga Lauha
* Vidanga Lauha
Line 452: Line 467:


== Current availability==  
== Current availability==  
Available
* India –
Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand


Available
* Out of India –
India –
Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand
Out of India –
Sri lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, China, Kenya, Uganda
Sri lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, China, Kenya, Uganda


== Current researches ==
== Phytochemical Composition ==
The therapeutic matrix of ''Embelia ribes'' stems from its rich reservoir of secondary metabolites. The primary biomarker and most biologically potent constituent isolated from its berries is '''embelin''' (chemically identified as ''2,5-dihydroxy-3-undecyl-1,4-benzoquinone'').{{cite journal |last1=Kundap |first1=U. P. |last2=Bhuvanendran |first2=S. |last3=Kumari |first3=Y. |last4=Othman |first4=I. |last5=Shaikh |first5=M. F. |year=2017 |title=Plant Derived Phytocompound, Embelin in CNS Disorders: A Systematic Review |journal=Frontiers in Pharmacology |volume=8 |pages=76 |doi=10.3389/fphar.2017.00076}}
Beyond embelin, metabolomic profiling has revealed several secondary phytoconstituents that contribute synergistically to its efficacy:


== Current researches ==
* '''Benzoquinones & Derivatives:''' Vilangin, 5-O-methylembelin, and embeliol.
* '''Phenolic Compounds & Flavonoids:''' Present in high quantities in ethanolic extracts, dictating major radical scavenging pathways.
* '''Alkaloids, Tannins, and Resins:''' Found distributed across the fruits, leaves, and roots, providing defenses against exogenous microbial stress.
 
---
 
== Pharmacological Activities & Therapeutic Efficacy ==
 
=== Anthelmintic & Antimicrobial Efficacy (''Krimighna'' Action) ===
In classical Ayurvedic texts, Vidanga is heralded as the premier ''Krimighna dravya'' (anti-parasitic/anti-worm herb).{{cite journal |last1=Patil |first1=U. |year=2013 |title=OA02.14. Krimigna action of vidanga against clinical isolates of multidrug resistant bacteria, importance of correct identification |journal=Ancient Science of Life |volume=32 |issue=Suppl 2 |pages=S20 |doi=10.4103/0257-7941.123834}}
 
* '''Anthelmintic Action:''' Crudely crushed seeds and isolated embelin fractions demonstrate a high structural clearance rate against intestinal parasites like ''Ascariasis'' at concentrations spanning 10–200 µg/mL.{{cite journal |last1=Sharma |first1=V. |last2=Gautam |first2=D. N. S. |last3=Radu |first3=A.-F. |last4=Behl |first4=T. |last5=Bungau |first5=S. G. |last6=Vesa |first6=C. M. |year=2022 |title=Reviewing the Traditional/Modern Uses, Phytochemistry, Essential Oils/Extracts and Pharmacology of Embelia ribes Burm |journal=Antioxidants |volume=11 |issue=7 |pages=1359 |doi=10.3390/antiox11071359}}
* '''Antimicrobial Limits:''' While historical data strongly endorses its role as an intestinal purifier, modern testing against clinical isolates of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria (e.g., ''Klebsiella spp.'', ''E. coli'', ''Salmonella spp.'') exhibits moderate to variable baseline clearance. This variability emphasizes the extreme necessity of using authentic, non-adulterated ''E. ribes'' over standard commercial substitutions.
 
=== Neuroprotective & Central Nervous System (CNS) Actions ===
Embelin possesses the molecular characteristics required to successfully cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB), making it highly valuable in managing age-related cognitive decline and neurological dysfunction.
 
* '''Anticonvulsant Properties:''' In animal models subjected to Maximal Electroshock (MES) and Pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) protocols, isolated embelin exhibits dose-dependent seizure prevention. It suppresses high-frequency action potentials and delays the onset of clonic-tonic phases, likely by modulating chloride conductance via \text{GABA}_\text{A} receptor pathways.
* '''Neuroprotective Mechanisms:''' Embelin works as a structural adjunct therapy in cerebral strokes by reducing cerebral infarction areas and protecting normal glial density through the down-regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines like \text{NF-}\kappa\text{B} and p53.
 
=== Antidiabetic & Pancreatic β-Cell Protection ===
''Embelia ribes'' extracts show significant therapeutic activity against the metabolic complications of diabetes mellitus.
 
* '''Islet Regeneration:''' Long-term administration (40 days) of ethanolic ''E. ribes'' fruit extracts (100–200 mg/kg) in streptozotocin-induced diabetic models leads to a visible expansion and repair of shrunken pancreatic islets.{{cite journal |last1=Bhandari |first1=U. |last2=Jain |first2=N. |last3=Pillai |first3=K. K. |year=2007 |title=Further Studies on Antioxidant Potential and Protection of Pancreatic β‐Cells by Embelia ribes in Experimental Diabetes |journal=Journal of Diabetes Research |volume=2007 |pages=15803 |doi=10.1155/2007/15803}}
* '''Biochemical Regulation:''' Research demonstrates a sharp decrease in fasting blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), serum lactate dehydrogenase, and pancreatic thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS). Concurrently, it restores depleted endogenous cellular defenses like superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione, rivaling standard glycemic agents like gliclazide.
 
=== Tissue Regeneration & Wound Healing ===
Topical application of isolated embelin (4 mg/mL) and crude ethanolic leaf extracts (30 mg/mL) accelerates cellular regeneration. Studies demonstrate significantly faster epithelialization rates, elevated wound contraction values, enhanced tensile strength, and improved cross-linking of structural collagen fibers compared to reference pharmaceutical skin ointments like framycetin.
 
---
 
== Key Pharmacological Reference Matrix ==
 
The validated biological pathways of ''E. ribes'' can be summarized as follows:
 
{| class="wikitable"
! Therapeutic Target !! Bioactive Component !! Primary Scientific Mechanism !! Key Outcome
|-
| '''Metabolic Control''' || Ethanolic Fruit Extract || Upregulates SOD/Catalase; lowers pancreatic tissue TBARS. || Pancreatic β-cell protection and reduction of diabetic oxidative stress.
|-
| '''Neurological Health''' || Isolated Embelin || Suppresses \text{NF-}\kappa\text{B}/p53; modulates \text{GABA}*\text{A} receptors. || Anticonvulsant action and preservation of glial density.
|-
| '''Dermal Repair''' || Leaf Extract / Embelin || Promotes collagen fiber cross-linking; controls monocyte aggregation. || Rapid epithelialization and enhanced wound contraction.
|-
| '''Antioxidant Defense''' || Polar Ethanolic Fraction || High radical scavenging capacity (\text{IC}*{50} down to 6.21 µg/mL in ALP assays).{{cite journal |last1=Jagtap |first1=K. |last2=Mulik |first2=A. |last3=A. Singh |first3=E. |last4=Jagtap |first4=S. |year=2022 |title=Comparative Study to Evaluate Ethanol and Ethyl Acetate Extracts of Different 'Vidanga' Species for Antioxidant Efficacy and Phyto-Constituents Screening |journal=Biomedical and Pharmacology Journal |volume=15 |issue=1 |pages=165-177 |doi=10.13005/bpj/2352}} || Protection against systemic lipid peroxidation.
|}
 
---
 
== Quality Control, Adulteration, and Geographic Variation ==
 
Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) demonstrates that ''E. ribes'' samples display up to 94% compound diversity based strictly on their microclimate and geographic location in the Western Ghats. Consequently, standardized extraction methods and genetic marker validation are vital to ensuring reproducible therapeutic efficacy in clinical practice.
 
---
 
== References ==
{{reflist}}


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

Latest revision as of 06:21, 14 July 2026


Embelia ribes BURM.F.

Vidanga
Section/Chapter Herb database/Vidanga
Botanical name(s) Embelia ribes BURM.F.
Family Myrsinaceae
Availability Available
Contributors Team Dravyaguna
Year of publication 2026
Publisher Charak Samhita Research, Training and Skill Development Centre
DOI Awaited

Botanical Profile & Overview

Embelia ribes Burm. f., commonly known as Vidanga or False Black Pepper, is a large, dioecious, woody climbing liana belonging to the family Myrsinaceae.G., R. S. (2021). "Economic Importance and Medicinal Strength of Vidanga (Embelia ribes) : An Endangered Medicinal Plant of Western Ghats of India". International Journal on Agricultural Sciences. 12 (1): 29–33. doi:10.53390/ijas.v12i1.7.  It is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of India, particularly thriving in the Western Ghats.Raskar, S.; Purkar, V.; Sardesai, M.; Mitra, S. (2022). "Assessing the Impact of Geographical Distribution and Genetic Diversity on Metabolic Profiles of a Medicinal Plant, Embelia ribes Burm. f.". Plants. 11 (21): 2861. doi:10.3390/plants11212861.  Due to its extensive commercial exploitation and high demand in traditional alternative medicine systems—such as Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha—E. ribes is currently flagged as an endangered medicinal species requiring stringent conservation strategies.

The dried fruits (berries) are globally sought after due to their significant concentration of unique bioactive benzoquinones, rendering them highly valued in pharmacological drug design.

Therapeutic Uses

Colic pain (Sula), Worms (krimi roga), Abdominal diseases (udara roga), abdominal distension (adhmana)[1]

Other varieties / Other botanical names

Embelia robusta C.B.Cl.

Synonyms in Charak Samhita

Krimighna(kills the worms), Krimihara, Chitratandula(seed of vidang has white spots on its surface), Jantunashana(efficacious drug in case of worm infestation)

Synonyms in bhavprakasa nighantu

Tandul, vella(due to its delicate and flexible branches vidanga looks like a creeper), amodha[2]

Ayurvedic pharmacological properties

Properties
Sr.no. Pharmacological criteria Properties
1 Taste (rasa) Pungent (katu), Astringent (kashaya)
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
6 Extra ordinary effect (prabhava) Vermicide (krimigna)

Reference in Charak Samhita and its actions

Herbs and their activities
Sr.no. Reference in Charak Samhita Activity
1 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 1/81 Phalini (Virechana) (Therapeutic Purgation)
2 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 2/3 Shirovirechana (Errhine therapy)
3 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 2/23 Krimighni yavagu(gruel worm infestation)
4 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 3/3 Siddhatama churna pradeha
5 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 5/64 Anu taila dravya
6 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 4/9(11) Truptighn amahakashaya(anti-satiety)
7 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 4/9(13) Kushthaghna mahakashaya(anti-dermatosis)
8 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 4/9(15) Krimighna mahakashaya(anti-helmintics)
9 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 4/9(27) Shirovirechanopag mahakashaya(helping nasal errhine therapy)
10 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 21/23 Management of obesity
11 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 23/18 Santarpanajanya vikar chikitsachikitsa (treatment of Over-nutrition disorder )
12 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 23/19 Santarpanajanya vikar chikitsachikitsa (treatment of Over-nutrition disorder )
13 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 25/40 Agrya Sangraha(collections of best food articles, factors and drugs in various conditions)
14 Cha.Sa.Vimana Sthana 6/17 Abhyantar Krimi(worms) Chikitsa
15 Cha.Sa.Vimana Sthana 6/21 Abhyantar Krimi(worms) Chikitsa
16 Cha.Sa.Vimana Sthana 6/22 Abhyantar Krimi(worms) Chikitsa
17 Cha.Sa.Vimana Sthana 6/24 Abhyantar Krimi (worms) Chikitsa
18 Cha.Sa.Vimana Sthana 6/25 Abhyantar Krimi(worms) Chikitsa
19 Cha.Sa.Vimana Sthana 8/142 Katuskandha(group of pungent drugs)
20 Cha.SaSharira Sthana 8/34 Garbhasya pratimasik karma
21 Cha.Sa. Sharira Sthana 8/41 Prajata stree paricharya
22 Cha.Sa.Kalpa Sthana 7/37 Preparations of Trivrit awaleha
23 Cha.Sa.Kalpa Sthana 7/40 Kalyanaka Guda
24 Cha.Sa.Kalpa Sthana 7/46 Vyoshadi Modaka
25 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 1/1/25 Body purification before rasayana treatment
26 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 1/2/9 In formulation of vidangavaleha
27 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 5/65 Ingredient in Trayushanaadi ghrita
28 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 5/86 Ingredient of Shatyadi Churna
29 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 5/106 Ingredient of Nilinyadya Ghrita
30 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 5/144 Ingredient in Bhallatakadya Ghrita for Kaphaj Gulma
31 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 6/27 Used for making decoction in Kaphaja prameh
32 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 6/28 Used for making decoction in Kaphaja prameh
33 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 6/41 Ingredient in Madhvasav
34 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/48 As Nashya in Kushth
35 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/77 Ingredient in Kanakabindurisht
36 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/84 Kushthaghna lepa
37 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/103 Bahyaprayogarth tail in Kushth(external application)
38 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/105 Ingredient in Sweta-karaviradhya Taila
39 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/106 Ingredient in Sweta-karavirapallavadhya Taila
40 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/109 Ingredient in Tiktekshvadi Taila

For Abhyang in Vata-Kaphaj Kushth

41 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/111 Ingredient in Kanakakshiri Taila
42 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/126 Lepa in Mandal and Dadru Kushth
43 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/153 Ingredient in Mahakhadir Ghrita
44 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/157 Snan, Pana and Pradeh in Galit-Kushth
45 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/159 As Krimihar dravya in treatment
46 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/160 Kushthahar Yoga
47 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/161 Kushthahar Yoga
48 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/167 Shvitra nashak Lepa
49 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 9/37 Ingredient in Kalyanak Ghrita
50 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 9/42 Ingredient in Mahakalyanak Ghrita
51 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/29 Ingredient in Gandiradhyarisht
52 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/39 Ingredient in Triphaladhyarisht
53 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/43 Ingredient in Kshar Gudika
54 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/72 As an Unmardan dravya in Kaphaja Shvayathu
55 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 13/80   In preparation of vidangadi kshara (for pleehodara)
56 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 13/119 As an ingredient of patoladi churna
57 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 13/125 As an ingredient of narayan churna
58 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 13/148 Kalka  used in udara roga with ksheer
59 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 14/50 Dhupan yoga in arsha roga
60 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 14/63 As an ingredient of traushnadi churna
61 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 14/138 As an ingredient of abhayarista
62 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 14/158 As an ingredient of kanakarista
63 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/88 As an ingredient of pancamuladhya ghrita evum churna
64 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/146 As an ingredient of madhookasava
65 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/154 As an ingredient of Duralabhasava(Kaphaja grahani )
66 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/158 As an ingredient of Mulasava
67 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/164 As an ingredient of Madhvarista
68 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/189 Used in preparation of Pancham Kshara
69 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 16/7 As an ingredient of Navayas Loha
70 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 16/73 As an ingredient of Mandur Vataka
71 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 16/78 As an ingredient of Suvarna Makshika Yoga
72 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 16/93 As an ingredient of Punarnava Mandur
73 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 16/97 As an ingredient of Darvyadi Leha
74 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 16/103 As an ingredient of Mandura Vataka
75 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 16/103 As an ingredient of    As an ingredient of  Vyoshadi Ghrit
76 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/47 As a yoga dravya
77 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/52 As an ingredient of vidangadi leha
78 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/174 As an ingredient of padmakadi leha
79 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/178 As an ingredient of jivantyadi leha
80 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/47 As a yoga dravya
81 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/52 As an ingredient of vidangadi leha
82 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/174 As an ingredient of padmakadi leha
83 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/178 As an ingredient of jivantyadi leha
84 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/182 As an ingredient of yavagu
85 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 19/105 As a kwatha dravya
86 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 19/111 As a yoga dravya
87 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 20/37 As an ingredient of Kaphaja chhardihara yoga
88 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 21/137 As an ingredient of Kampillakadi taila
89 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 23/57 As an ingredient of Mrita sanjivani agada
90 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 25/90 As an ingredient of Kampillakadi taila
91 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/13 Used to make Udavarta varti
92 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/20 As an ingredient of Dviruttarahingvadi churna
93 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/101 Used in Hrudshoola
94 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/152 Used in Kaphaja Pratishyaya for pradhamana
95 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/153 As an ingredient of Bhargyadi taila
96 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/184 Used in Kaphaja Siroroga for Pradhamana nasya
97 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/252 As an ingredient of Sukhavati varti
98 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/254 As an ingredient of Drustiprada varti
99 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 29/152 As an ingredient of Triphaladi kalka in tridoshaja shola

Dose

Churna – 5 – 10 gm[3]

Important formulations

As per A.P.I.[4]

  • Vidangarishta
  • Vidanga Lauha
  • Vidangadi Lauha

Current availability

Available

  • India –
Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand
  • Out of India –

Sri lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, China, Kenya, Uganda

Current researches

Phytochemical Composition

The therapeutic matrix of Embelia ribes stems from its rich reservoir of secondary metabolites. The primary biomarker and most biologically potent constituent isolated from its berries is embelin (chemically identified as 2,5-dihydroxy-3-undecyl-1,4-benzoquinone).Kundap, U. P.; Bhuvanendran, S.; Kumari, Y.; Othman, I.; Shaikh, M. F. (2017). "Plant Derived Phytocompound, Embelin in CNS Disorders: A Systematic Review". Frontiers in Pharmacology. 8: 76. doi:10.3389/fphar.2017.00076. 

Beyond embelin, metabolomic profiling has revealed several secondary phytoconstituents that contribute synergistically to its efficacy:

  • Benzoquinones & Derivatives: Vilangin, 5-O-methylembelin, and embeliol.
  • Phenolic Compounds & Flavonoids: Present in high quantities in ethanolic extracts, dictating major radical scavenging pathways.
  • Alkaloids, Tannins, and Resins: Found distributed across the fruits, leaves, and roots, providing defenses against exogenous microbial stress.

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Pharmacological Activities & Therapeutic Efficacy

Anthelmintic & Antimicrobial Efficacy (Krimighna Action)

In classical Ayurvedic texts, Vidanga is heralded as the premier Krimighna dravya (anti-parasitic/anti-worm herb).Patil, U. (2013). "OA02.14. Krimigna action of vidanga against clinical isolates of multidrug resistant bacteria, importance of correct identification". Ancient Science of Life. 32 (Suppl 2): S20. doi:10.4103/0257-7941.123834. 

  • Anthelmintic Action: Crudely crushed seeds and isolated embelin fractions demonstrate a high structural clearance rate against intestinal parasites like Ascariasis at concentrations spanning 10–200 µg/mL.Sharma, V.; Gautam, D. N. S.; Radu, A.-F.; Behl, T.; Bungau, S. G.; Vesa, C. M. (2022). "Reviewing the Traditional/Modern Uses, Phytochemistry, Essential Oils/Extracts and Pharmacology of Embelia ribes Burm". Antioxidants. 11 (7): 1359. doi:10.3390/antiox11071359. 
  • Antimicrobial Limits: While historical data strongly endorses its role as an intestinal purifier, modern testing against clinical isolates of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria (e.g., Klebsiella spp., E. coli, Salmonella spp.) exhibits moderate to variable baseline clearance. This variability emphasizes the extreme necessity of using authentic, non-adulterated E. ribes over standard commercial substitutions.

Neuroprotective & Central Nervous System (CNS) Actions

Embelin possesses the molecular characteristics required to successfully cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB), making it highly valuable in managing age-related cognitive decline and neurological dysfunction.

  • Anticonvulsant Properties: In animal models subjected to Maximal Electroshock (MES) and Pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) protocols, isolated embelin exhibits dose-dependent seizure prevention. It suppresses high-frequency action potentials and delays the onset of clonic-tonic phases, likely by modulating chloride conductance via \text{GABA}_\text{A} receptor pathways.
  • Neuroprotective Mechanisms: Embelin works as a structural adjunct therapy in cerebral strokes by reducing cerebral infarction areas and protecting normal glial density through the down-regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines like \text{NF-}\kappa\text{B} and p53.

Antidiabetic & Pancreatic β-Cell Protection

Embelia ribes extracts show significant therapeutic activity against the metabolic complications of diabetes mellitus.

  • Islet Regeneration: Long-term administration (40 days) of ethanolic E. ribes fruit extracts (100–200 mg/kg) in streptozotocin-induced diabetic models leads to a visible expansion and repair of shrunken pancreatic islets.Bhandari, U.; Jain, N.; Pillai, K. K. (2007). "Further Studies on Antioxidant Potential and Protection of Pancreatic β‐Cells by Embelia ribes in Experimental Diabetes". Journal of Diabetes Research. 2007: 15803. doi:10.1155/2007/15803. 
  • Biochemical Regulation: Research demonstrates a sharp decrease in fasting blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), serum lactate dehydrogenase, and pancreatic thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS). Concurrently, it restores depleted endogenous cellular defenses like superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione, rivaling standard glycemic agents like gliclazide.

Tissue Regeneration & Wound Healing

Topical application of isolated embelin (4 mg/mL) and crude ethanolic leaf extracts (30 mg/mL) accelerates cellular regeneration. Studies demonstrate significantly faster epithelialization rates, elevated wound contraction values, enhanced tensile strength, and improved cross-linking of structural collagen fibers compared to reference pharmaceutical skin ointments like framycetin.

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Key Pharmacological Reference Matrix

The validated biological pathways of E. ribes can be summarized as follows:

Therapeutic Target Bioactive Component Primary Scientific Mechanism Key Outcome
Metabolic Control Ethanolic Fruit Extract Upregulates SOD/Catalase; lowers pancreatic tissue TBARS. Pancreatic β-cell protection and reduction of diabetic oxidative stress.
Neurological Health Isolated Embelin Suppresses \text{NF-}\kappa\text{B}/p53; modulates \text{GABA}*\text{A} receptors. Anticonvulsant action and preservation of glial density.
Dermal Repair Leaf Extract / Embelin Promotes collagen fiber cross-linking; controls monocyte aggregation. Rapid epithelialization and enhanced wound contraction.
Antioxidant Defense Polar Ethanolic Fraction High radical scavenging capacity (\text{IC}*{50} down to 6.21 µg/mL in ALP assays).Jagtap, K.; Mulik, A.; A. Singh, E.; Jagtap, S. (2022). "Comparative Study to Evaluate Ethanol and Ethyl Acetate Extracts of Different 'Vidanga' Species for Antioxidant Efficacy and Phyto-Constituents Screening". Biomedical and Pharmacology Journal. 15 (1): 165–177. doi:10.13005/bpj/2352.  Protection against systemic lipid peroxidation.

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Quality Control, Adulteration, and Geographic Variation

Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) demonstrates that E. ribes samples display up to 94% compound diversity based strictly on their microclimate and geographic location in the Western Ghats. Consequently, standardized extraction methods and genetic marker validation are vital to ensuring reproducible therapeutic efficacy in clinical practice.

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References

  1. Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume I:77.
  2. Prof. K.C.Chunekar, Bhavprakasha Nighantu, Reprint.2015, Chaukhambha vishvabharti, Haritakyadi Varga, verse no. 111, p.50.
  3. Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume I:77.
  4. Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume I:77.