ABSTRACT
Authentic texts describe Grudhrasi under Vata Roga. One of its main clinical features is a pain that radiates from Sphik Pradesha (buttocks) to Pada (foot). It can be corelated with sciatica. Piyusharnava, describes that Parisheka Sweda using Nauclea orientalis (Bakmi) as a treatment for Katigaha (Lumbago). Vasti Karma using N. orientalis (Bakmi) is in practice and Vasti is the best treatment for Vata Roga. Seventy-five patients suffering from Grudhrasi (sciatica) were treated with Parisheka Sweda, Vasti and combined therapy. Parisheka Sweda was carried out for a period of seven days. Vasti was performed as Yoga Vasti. Both therapies were carried out in combined therapy group; namely, Parisheka Sweda followed by Yoga Vasti. All three groups showed statistically significant reduction in all the symptoms but there was no statistical difference between groups. Parisheka Sweda and Yoga Vasti using Nauclea orientalis (Bakmi) can be recommended as an effective treatment for Grudhrasi (sciatica).
ABSTRACT
This study examined the oral anti-inflammatory potential of aqueous extract of Thespesia populnea Linn bark. Soland. Ex. Corr. (Family: Malvaceae) which is used by Sri Lankan native practitioners to treat skin ailments and arthritis. This was tested in conscious male Wistar rats using carrageenan induced paw edema model and three oral doses; 1250, 2500 and 5000mg/kg. Indomethacin was used as the reference drug. The result showed that the aqueous extract of bark significantly P<0.05 and dose dependently inhibited both early (1-2 h) and late phase (4-5 h) of inflammation in the carrageenan model. In addition, it inhibited the intermediated phase (3 h). The anti-inflammatory activity of the highest doses of extract was comparable to that of indomethacin. The extract did not display overt signs of toxicity and was neither hepatotoxic, renotoxic nor hematotoxic even with chronic administration. It is concluded that aqueous bark extract of Thespesia populnea can function as an orally active, safe and potent anti-inflammatory agent.
ABSTRACT
Scorpions use their sting as a defensive weapon or as a mechanism to incapacitate prey. The scorpion sting possesses venom and the character of the poison depends on the scorpion species. Some may lead to death. Ayurveda and Sri Lankan traditional physicians treat scorpion sting by administering medicines internally and externally, in various forms. Data was gathered from Ayurveda and Sri Lankan traditional medical books, through interviewing physicians, research journals and internet. Herbs, minerals and animal sources are used to treat scorpion sting. Analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antihistaminic, antipyretic, antispasmodic, antioxidant, cardioproective, respiratory protective, neuroprotective properties and anti-scorpion venom activity of these ingredients are scientifically proven. Due to these properties, these ingredients are capable of overcoming the symptoms such as pain, swelling, redness, itching, spasms, neurotoxicity and also cardiac and respiratory failure occurring through scorpion sting. It is concluded that Ayurveda and Sri Lankan traditional physicians possess multi-faceted, effective treatment methods for scorpion stings which can be scientifically proven.