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Local application by rubbing of certain herbal powders on the skin reduces ''kapha dosha'' and regulates ''vata dosha'' at that level and inhibits samprapti of ''kandu'' and ''kotha''. Regular rubbing of the powders over the skin increases peripheral circulation of the capillaries supplying the skin and also reduced inflammation at dermal level. Rubbing of dry powders over the body is called ''udvartana''. This softens the skin leaving it with a lustrous glow. The stimulating massage helps revitalize skin, removes fat deposits and improve circulation and digestion. ''Udvartana'' helps open the circulatory channels, facilitating metabolic activities, eliminating excessive perspiration and body odor and improving the complexion of the skin.   

Local application by rubbing of certain herbal powders on the skin reduces ''kapha dosha'' and regulates ''vata dosha'' at that level and inhibits samprapti of ''kandu'' and ''kotha''. Regular rubbing of the powders over the skin increases peripheral circulation of the capillaries supplying the skin and also reduced inflammation at dermal level. Rubbing of dry powders over the body is called ''udvartana''. This softens the skin leaving it with a lustrous glow. The stimulating massage helps revitalize skin, removes fat deposits and improve circulation and digestion. ''Udvartana'' helps open the circulatory channels, facilitating metabolic activities, eliminating excessive perspiration and body odor and improving the complexion of the skin.   

   

   

''Triphala'' is one of the oldest used polyherbal preparations. It is comprised of Terminalia chebula, Terminalia bellerica and Emblica officinalis. Some of the positive qualities of ''triphala'' in vivo and in vitro are that it is an antioxidant, anti-hypercholesterolemic, anti-diabetic, anti-obesity, and possesses chemo-preventive potential and anti-mutagenic activities, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, radioprotective effect, immunomodulatory, improving wound healing, enteroprotective efficacies, anti-gastric ulcers and nitric oxide scavenging properties. This herbal combination can have profound healing benefits in multi-organ systems.  It is rich in Mg, K, Ca, Fe, Se and Zn, which enhance their bioavailability. Low molecular weight tannins, gallic acid and other important phytochemicals are responsible for the above effects.   

'''''Triphala''''' is one of the oldest used polyherbal preparations. It is comprised of Terminalia chebula, Terminalia bellerica and Emblica officinalis. Some of the positive qualities of ''triphala'' in vivo and in vitro are that it is an antioxidant, anti-hypercholesterolemic, anti-diabetic, anti-obesity, and possesses chemo-preventive potential and anti-mutagenic activities, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, radioprotective effect, immunomodulatory, improving wound healing, enteroprotective efficacies, anti-gastric ulcers and nitric oxide scavenging properties. This herbal combination can have profound healing benefits in multi-organ systems.  It is rich in Mg, K, Ca, Fe, Se and Zn, which enhance their bioavailability. Low molecular weight tannins, gallic acid and other important phytochemicals are responsible for the above effects.   

''Aragwadha'' (Cassia fistula) possesses ''madhura rasa, madhura vipaka'' and has ''sheeta veerya''. It possesses strong antioxidant properties. Aqueous extract of ''Aragwadha'' flowers administered in diabetic rats (streptozotocin induced diabetes) showed antioxidant effect. After investigating antioxidants marker enzymes in the brain, significant increase is observed, with decrease in thiobarbituric reactive substances and hydroperoxide formation comparable with glibenclamide.  

'''''Aragwadha''''' (Cassia fistula) possesses ''madhura rasa, madhura vipaka'' and has ''sheeta veerya''. It possesses strong antioxidant properties. Aqueous extract of ''Aragwadha'' flowers administered in diabetic rats (streptozotocin induced diabetes) showed antioxidant effect. After investigating antioxidants marker enzymes in the brain, significant increase is observed, with decrease in thiobarbituric reactive substances and hydroperoxide formation comparable with glibenclamide.  

Cassia auriculata L. seedlings, if irradiated with ultraviolet B (UV-B), it counteracted the induced oxidative stress with reduction in ascorbate, dehydroascorbate, glutathione/oxidized glutathione content at two doses assayed (7.5 and 15.0 kJ-2)   

Cassia auriculata L. seedlings, if irradiated with ultraviolet B (UV-B), it counteracted the induced oxidative stress with reduction in ascorbate, dehydroascorbate, glutathione/oxidized glutathione content at two doses assayed (7.5 and 15.0 kJ-2)   

Cyperus rotundus has antioxidant and anti-atherosclerotic effects due to the presence of flavanoids, polyphenols and terpenes which reduce absorption of total cholesterol and triglycerides. Cyperus rotundus, in the form of a fine powder or an aqueous solution, exhibits lipolytic properties and showed mobilization of fats from adipose tissues. Cyperus rotundus is supposed to have activators of beta adreno receptors.   

Cyperus rotundus has antioxidant and anti-atherosclerotic effects due to the presence of flavanoids, polyphenols and terpenes which reduce absorption of total cholesterol and triglycerides. Cyperus rotundus, in the form of a fine powder or an aqueous solution, exhibits lipolytic properties and showed mobilization of fats from adipose tissues. Cyperus rotundus is supposed to have activators of beta adreno receptors.   

''Madanaphala'' (Randia dumentorum) has ''madhura, tikta rasa, katu vipaka'' and ''ushna veerya''. It is a widely used herb for induction of vomiting used for ''vamana'' procedure. It has ''lekhana'' properties.

'''''Madanaphala''''' (Randia dumentorum) has ''madhura, tikta rasa, katu vipaka'' and ''ushna veerya''. It is a widely used herb for induction of vomiting used for ''vamana'' procedure. It has ''lekhana'' properties.

Clearly, the pharmacological action of the above ''dravyas'' all have been proven to have anti-diabetic and anti-hyperlipidimic properties. The interesting thing to note is that although these ''dravyas'' ultimately work for metabolic disorders, they have different modes of action. Anti-diabetic properties of ''triphala, neem, musta'' and ''saptaparna'' are different. The ''rasa'' of the above mentioned ''dravyas'' is ''tikta kasahaya'' or ''tikta katu'' which is ''akasha, teja'' and ''vayu mahabhuta'' dominant. As we have seen that ''santarpaniya vyadhis'' are due to excess consumption of ''prithvi'' and ''apa mahabhuta,'' those of opposing properties, i.e., ''akasha, teja and vayu'' are used in treating such ailments.  

Clearly, the pharmacological action of the above ''dravyas'' all have been proven to have anti-diabetic and anti-hyperlipidimic properties. The interesting thing to note is that although these ''dravyas'' ultimately work for metabolic disorders, they have different modes of action. Anti-diabetic properties of ''triphala, neem, musta'' and ''saptaparna'' are different. The ''rasa'' of the above mentioned ''dravyas'' is ''tikta kasahaya'' or ''tikta katu'' which is ''akasha, teja'' and ''vayu mahabhuta'' dominant. As we have seen that ''santarpaniya vyadhis'' are due to excess consumption of ''prithvi'' and ''apa mahabhuta,'' those of opposing properties, i.e., ''akasha, teja and vayu'' are used in treating such ailments.  

''Devadaru'' (Cedrus deodara or Himalayan Cedar) is a herb that is very effective in improving the functions of liver and in maintaining cholesterol levels in healthy limits. ''Devadaru'' pacifies the ''kapha dosha'' by ''tikta, katu'' and ''ushna'' properties, and ''vata dosha'' by ''snigdha'' and ''ushna'' properties so it is useful in disorders induced by ''kapha'' and ''vata doshas''.

'''''Devadaru''''' (Cedrus deodara or Himalayan Cedar) is a herb that is very effective in improving the functions of liver and in maintaining cholesterol levels in healthy limits. ''Devadaru'' pacifies the ''kapha dosha'' by ''tikta, katu'' and ''ushna'' properties, and ''vata dosha'' by ''snigdha'' and ''ushna'' properties so it is useful in disorders induced by ''kapha'' and ''vata doshas''.

 

Investigation demonstrate that extracts of C. deodara shows reduction in body weight in treated groups in a dose dependent manner. The major chemical constituents of C. deodara are sterols, poly-phenols, flavanoids such as taxifolin, quercetin and saponins. It is well established that saponins are useful in treatment of obesity. Phytosterols have beneficial effects on hyperlipidemia and poly-phenols and flavanoids have potential antioxidant properties. Therefore, it could be possible that presence of these compounds is responsible for observed glucose and lipid lowering properties.

Investigation demonstrate that extracts of C. deodara shows reduction in body weight in treated groups in a dose dependent manner. The major chemical constituents of C. deodara are sterols, poly-phenols, flavanoids such as taxifolin, quercetin and saponins. It is well established that saponins are useful in treatment of obesity. Phytosterols have beneficial effects on hyperlipidemia and poly-phenols and flavanoids have potential antioxidant properties. Therefore, it could be possible that presence of these compounds is responsible for observed glucose and lipid lowering properties.

''Shwadanshtra'' or ''gokshura'' (Tribulus Terrestris) is ''madhura rasatmaka'' and has ''sheeta veerya'' with ''madhura vipaka''. ''Gokshura'' is widely used to relieve certain anabolic disorders. It is helpful for the treatment of angina, high cholesterol 65, diabetes 65, and muscle spasms, and for the prevention of kidney stones.  

'''''Shwadanshtra''''' or ''gokshura'' (Tribulus Terrestris) is ''madhura rasatmaka'' and has ''sheeta veerya'' with ''madhura vipaka''. ''Gokshura'' is widely used to relieve certain anabolic disorders. It is helpful for the treatment of angina, high cholesterol 65, diabetes 65, and muscle spasms, and for the prevention of kidney stones.  

 

It is very interesting to note that though ''gokshura'' or Tribulus terrestris is ''madhura'' and ''sheeta veerya dravya'' it has been included to treat ''santarpaniya vyadhis''. ''Gokshura'', by the virtue of its phytochemicals and its DHEAS (Dihydro epi andesterone sulphate) stimulating property and its potent diuretic qualities may have been in the group of medicines which are used to impart ''apatarpana''. It has proved to be a very potent herb to cure erectile dysfunction and ''klaibyata'' in patients suffering from metabolic syndrome.

It is very interesting to note that though ''gokshura'' or Tribulus terrestris is ''madhura'' and ''sheeta veerya dravya'' it has been included to treat ''santarpaniya vyadhis''. ''Gokshura'', by the virtue of its phytochemicals and its DHEAS (Dihydro epi andesterone sulphate) stimulating property and its potent diuretic qualities may have been in the group of medicines which are used to impart ''apatarpana''. It has proved to be a very potent herb to cure erectile dysfunction and ''klaibyata'' in patients suffering from metabolic syndrome.

'''''Khadira''''' (Acacia Catechu): This herb is ''tikta'', ''kashaya'' having ''sheeta veerya'' and ''katu vipaka''. This herb is mostly used as ''kusthaghana'' to alleviate skin problems. In eastern traditional medicines, Acacia catechu Willd is extensively used in the management of diabetes in combinations with other medicinal plants. The most common chemical classes among these plants are flavonoid and other anti-oxidants. Hypoglycemic property of extract of Acacia catechu Willd is assumed to be due to the presence of flavonoids which also show inhibition of cyclo-oxygenase and regenerate β cells.

'''''Khadira''''' (Acacia Catechu): This herb is ''tikta'', ''kashaya'' having ''sheeta veerya'' and ''katu vipaka''. This herb is mostly used as ''kusthaghana'' to alleviate skin problems. In eastern traditional medicines, Acacia catechu Willd is extensively used in the management of diabetes in combinations with other medicinal plants. The most common chemical classes among these plants are flavonoid and other anti-oxidants. Hypoglycemic property of extract of Acacia catechu Willd is assumed to be due to the presence of flavonoids which also show inhibition of cyclo-oxygenase and regenerate β cells. In vitro Acacia catechu Willd is reported to have broad spectrum anti-microbial and anti fungal properties. Phytochemical studies of Acacia catechu Willd leaves shows the presence of alkaloids, carbohydrates, flavones, glycosides, phenolic compounds, saponins, steroids and tannins which may be responsible for its anti-microbial properties.

In vitro Acacia catechu Willd is reported to have broad spectrum anti-microbial and anti fungal properties. Phytochemical studies of Acacia catechu Willd leaves shows the presence of alkaloids, carbohydrates, flavones, glycosides, phenolic compounds, saponins, steroids and tannins which may be responsible for its anti-microbial properties.  

'''''Haridra''''' (Curcuma longa) has ''tikta rasa, katu vipaka'' and ''ushna veerya.'' It is ''laghu ruksha'' in its qualities. Ingestion of 6 gm Curcuma longa increased postprandial serum insulin levels, but did not seem to affect plasma glucose levels or GI, in healthy subjects. The results indicate that Curcuma longa may have an effect on insulin secretion. The active principles in the rhizome of turmeric plant viz; curcuminoids lower lipid peroxidation by maintaining the activities of antioxidant enzymes like super oxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione per oxidase at higher levels. Antioxidant properties of curcuma longa is due to curcumin and its three derivatives (demethoxy curcumin, bisdemethoxy curcumin and diacetyl curcumin). A scientific and systemic exploration reveals antidiabetic, hypolipidemic and hepatoprotective effects of Curcuma longa freeze dried rhizome powder dissolved in milk which could be used as an effective and safe antidiabetic dietary supplement of high potential.  

Curcuma longa is known to contain curcuminoids, glycosides, terpenoids, and flavonoids. Maximal inhibition of the enzyme Human Pancreatic Amylase (HPA) was obtained with Curcuma longa isopropanol extract and acetone extract. This inhibitory action on HPA causes reduction in starch hydrolysis leading to lowered glucose levels. The antioxidants in turmeric also prevent damage to cholesterol, thereby helping to protect against atherosclerosis. In fact, the ability of the antioxidants in turmeric to decrease free radicals is similar to that in vitamins C and E. Since the antioxidant activities of turmeric are not degraded by heat, even using the spice in cooking provides benefits. Animal studies show that curcumin lowers cholesterol and triglycerides, another fat that circulates in the blood stream and is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.  In a recent study of atherosclerosis, mice were fed a standard American diet, rich in refined carbohydrates and saturated fat, but low in fiber. Some of the mice, however, received this diet plus turmeric mixed in with their food. After four months on these diets, the mice that consumed the turmeric with their food had 20 percent less blockage of the arteries than the mice fed the diet without the turmeric. In another study, rabbits were fed turmeric plus a diet designed to cause atherosclerosis. Several risk factors for the disease were improved, including a decrease in cholesterol, triglycerides, and free-radical damage.  

Curcuma longa is known to contain curcuminoids, glycosides, terpenoids, and flavonoids. Maximal inhibition of the enzyme Human Pancreatic Amylase (HPA) was obtained with Curcuma longa isopropanol extract and acetone extract. This inhibitory action on HPA causes reduction in starch hydrolysis leading to lowered glucose levels. The antioxidants in turmeric also prevent damage to cholesterol, thereby helping to protect against atherosclerosis. In fact, the ability of the antioxidants in turmeric to decrease free radicals is similar to that in vitamins C and E. Since the antioxidant activities of turmeric are not degraded by heat, even using the spice in cooking provides benefits. Animal studies show that curcumin lowers cholesterol and triglycerides, another fat that circulates in the blood stream and is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.  In a recent study of atherosclerosis, mice were fed a standard American diet, rich in refined carbohydrates and saturated fat, but low in fiber. Some of the mice, however, received this diet plus turmeric mixed in with their food. After four months on these diets, the mice that consumed the turmeric with their food had 20 percent less blockage of the arteries than the mice fed the diet without the turmeric. In another study, rabbits were fed turmeric plus a diet designed to cause atherosclerosis. Several risk factors for the disease were improved, including a decrease in cholesterol, triglycerides, and free-radical damage.  

Antidermatophytic properties: Fresh juice of rhizome of haridra is used as an antiparasitic in many skin disorders. Its rhizome powder mixed with cow’s urine is taken internally in itching and dermatitis. Curcuma longa L. leaves have good promise as an antifungal agent that could be used as a therapeutic remedy against human pathogenic fungi on account of its various in vitro and in vivo antifungal properties, viz., strong fungicidal action, long shelf-life, its tolerability of heavy inoculum density, thermo stability, broad range of antidermatophytic properties and absence of any adverse effects. Curcumin obtained from the turmeric rhizome have shown to possess the ability to protect the skin from harmful UV-induced effects by displaying antimutagen, antioxidant, free radical scavenging, anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties.   

Antidermatophytic properties: Fresh juice of rhizome of haridra is used as an antiparasitic in many skin disorders. Its rhizome powder mixed with cow’s urine is taken internally in itching and dermatitis. Curcuma longa L. leaves have good promise as an antifungal agent that could be used as a therapeutic remedy against human pathogenic fungi on account of its various in vitro and in vivo antifungal properties, viz., strong fungicidal action, long shelf-life, its tolerability of heavy inoculum density, thermo stability, broad range of antidermatophytic properties and absence of any adverse effects. Curcumin obtained from the turmeric rhizome have shown to possess the ability to protect the skin from harmful UV-induced effects by displaying antimutagen, antioxidant, free radical scavenging, anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties.   

''Neem'' (Azadirachta indica):  It is a ''tikta rasa'' plant having ''sheeta veerya'' and ''katu vipaka''. It imparts ''ruksha'' and ''laghu'' property.

'''''Neem''''' (Azadirachta indica):  It is a ''tikta rasa'' plant having ''sheeta veerya'' and ''katu vipaka''. It imparts ''ruksha'' and ''laghu'' property. Hydroalcoholic extracts of this plant showed anti-hyperglycemic properties in streptozotocin treated rats and this effect is because of increase in glucose uptake and glycogen deposition in isolated rat hemidiaphragm. Apart from having anti-diabetic properties, this plant also has anti-bacterial, antimalarial, antifertility, hepatoprotective and antioxidant effects.

Hydroalcoholic extracts of this plant showed anti-hyperglycemic properties in streptozotocin treated rats and this effect is because of increase in glucose uptake and glycogen deposition in isolated rat hemidiaphragm. Apart from having anti-diabetic properties, this plant also has anti-bacterial, antimalarial, antifertility, hepatoprotective and antioxidant effects.

'''''Twak''''' (Cinnamomum Zelyanicum):  It is ''katu tikta rasatmaka'' having ''katu vipaka'' and ''ushna veerya''. It has been shown that oral administration of cinnamaldehyde produces significant antihyperglycemic effect lowers both total cholesterol and triglyceride levels and, at the same time, increases HDL-cholesterol in STZ induced diabetic rats.  

''Twak'' (Cinnamomum Zelyanicum): It is ''katu tikta rasatmaka'' having ''katu vipaka'' and ''ushna veerya''. It has been shown that oral administration of cinnamaldehyde produces significant antihyperglycemic effect lowers both total cholesterol and triglyceride levels and, at the same time, increases HDL-cholesterol in STZ induced diabetic rats.  

 

'''''Kushtha''''' (Saussurea Lappa): has ''tikta katu madhur rasa'', ''katu vipaka'' and ''ushna veerya''. It is known to lower blood lipids and is also known to improve coronary circulation.

Barley: Barley contains greater amounts of soluble and non-soluble starches compared to other cereals, and approximately 17% of the carbohydrate in barley is not absorbed. Undigested carbohydrate produces short chain fatty acids, some which may reduce hepatic glucose production and affect postprandial glycemia. Barley also inhibits serum cholesterol and is also known to reduce blood pressure if given for long term use.  

Barley: Barley contains greater amounts of soluble and non-soluble starches compared to other cereals, and approximately 17% of the carbohydrate in barley is not absorbed. Undigested carbohydrate produces short chain fatty acids, some which may reduce hepatic glucose production and affect postprandial glycemia. Barley also inhibits serum cholesterol and is also known to reduce blood pressure if given for long term use.  

Takra (butter milk) is used to relieve santarpanajanya vyadhis. It has prime importance in diet and is supposed to be improve appetite. Its properties and medicinal qualities are described in (Ashtanga Hridaya Sutrasthana chapter 5).  

'''''Hingu'''''(Ferula asafoetida): is a resin having ''katu rasa, ushna veerya'' and ''katu vipaka''. Ferula asafoetida exhibits anti-cholesterol anti-hypertensive  and a potent anti-oxidant properties in experimental animals.

 

'''''Vasa''''' (Adhatoda vasica): has ''tikta rasa, sheeta veerya'' and ''sheeta vipaka'' and is strong anti diabetic and cardio protective.  

 

'''''Kharavha ajmoda''''' (Trachyspermemum ammi): is a plant with ''katu, tikta rasa, katu vipaka'' and ''ushna veerya''. T. ammi has been shown to possess antimicrobial, hypolipidaemic, digestive stimulant, antihypertensive, hepatoprotective, antispasmodic and broncho-dilating properties.

Trikatu: Trikatu is combination of equal parts of sunthi, maricha and pippali. Trikatu is regarded as an anti obesity formulation and has been widely used in anabolic disorders. It is widely used to lower cholesterol and triglycerides and is known to increase HDL levels. In one of the studies it is found that Trikatu, by virtue of its ability to reduce triglycerides and LDL cholesterol, increases HDL cholesterol to reduce the risk of hyperlipidaemia and atherosclerosis. Trikatu is also known to have immune modulatory properties  and is known to be a good bioavailability enhancer.  

Vidanga [Embelia ribes]: The properties are rasa katu, kashaya rasa, ushna veerya and katu vipaka. It is one of the important plants used for relieving worm infestation. Vidanga exhibits a potent hypoglycaemic and lipid lowering properties.

 

Agaru [Aquilaria agallocha]: Agaru is a tropical and sub-tropical, fragrant evergreen tree. The wood is very heavy, and sinks in water. The wood has tikta rasa, ushna veerya and katu vipaka. It exerts potent immunomodulator and anti inflammatory property.  

Sunthi or ginger [Zinziber officinale]: Ginger has katu rasa, madhura vipaka and ushna veerya. Ginger has been shown to exhibit antioxidant effects. (6)-gingerol appears to be the antioxidant constituent present in ginger, as it was shown to protect HL-60 cells from oxidative stress. Ginger oil has dominative protective effects on DNA damage induced by H2O2. Ginger oil might act as a scavenger of oxygen radical and might be used as an antioxidant. In vitro research indicates that gingerols and the related shogaols exhibit cardio depressant properties at low doses and cardiotonic properties at higher doses. Both (6)-shogaol and (6)-gingerol, and the gingerdiones, are reportedly potent enzymatic inhibitors of prostaglandin, thromboxane, and leukotriene biosynthesis.  Spiced foods or herbal drinks, containing ginger, have the potential to produce significant effects on metabolic targets, such as satiety, thermogenesis, and fat oxidation thus, useful as anti-obesity agent. Thermogenic ingredients, such as ginger, may be considered as functional agent that could help restore a "positive energy balance" and prevent obesity.  

 

Shigru (Moringa olifera) has properties of katu, kashaya rasa, ushna veerya and katu vipaka. It is widely used in santarpaniya vyadhis. Charaka has also elaborated shigru to be used in obesity and heart diseases. It exhibits strong hypoglycaemic properties. The aqueous, ethanol and ether extracts of moringa oleifera leaves contain compounds that cause reduction in heart rate and relaxation of cardiac muscle and have medical use in management of cardiac conditions like hypertension.  

 

'''''Trikatu''''': is combination of equal parts of ''sunthi, maricha'' and ''pippali''. ''Trikatu'' is regarded as an anti-obesity formulation and has been widely used in anabolic disorders. It is widely used to lower cholesterol and triglycerides and is known to increase HDL levels. In one of the studies it is found that ''trikatu'', by virtue of its ability to reduce triglycerides and LDL cholesterol, increases HDL cholesterol to reduce the risk of hyperlipidaemia and atherosclerosis. ''Trikatu'' is also known to have immune modulatory properties  and is known to be a good bioavailability enhancer.  

 

'''''Vidanga''''' (Embelia ribes): The properties are ''rasa katu, kashaya rasa, ushna veerya'' and ''katu vipaka''. It is one of the important plants used for relieving worm infestation. ''Vidanga'' exhibits a potent hypoglycaemic and lipid lowering properties.

'''''Agaru''''' (Aquilaria agallocha): ''Agaru'' is a tropical and sub-tropical, fragrant evergreen tree. The wood is very heavy, and sinks in water. The wood has ''tikta rasa, ushna veerya'' and ''katu vipaka''. It exerts potent immunomodulator and anti inflammatory property.  

 

'''''Sunthi''''' or ginger (Zinziber officinale): Ginger has ''katu rasa, madhura vipaka'' and ''ushna veerya''. Ginger has been shown to exhibit antioxidant effects. (6)-gingerol appears to be the antioxidant constituent present in ginger, as it was shown to protect HL-60 cells from oxidative stress. Ginger oil has dominative protective effects on DNA damage induced by H2O2. Ginger oil might act as a scavenger of oxygen radical and might be used as an antioxidant. In vitro research indicates that gingerols and the related shogaols exhibit cardio depressant properties at low doses and cardiotonic properties at higher doses. Both (6)-shogaol and (6)-gingerol, and the gingerdiones, are reportedly potent enzymatic inhibitors of prostaglandin, thromboxane, and leukotriene biosynthesis.  Spiced foods or herbal drinks, containing ginger, have the potential to produce significant effects on metabolic targets, such as satiety, thermogenesis, and fat oxidation thus, useful as anti-obesity agent. Thermogenic ingredients, such as ginger, may be considered as functional agent that could help restore a "positive energy balance" and prevent obesity.

'''''Shigru''''' (Moringa olifera): has properties of ''katu, kashaya rasa, ushna veerya'' and ''katu vipaka''. It is widely used in ''santarpaniya vyadhis''. Charaka has also elaborated ''shigru'' to be used in obesity and heart diseases. It exhibits strong hypoglycaemic properties. The aqueous, ethanol and ether extracts of moringa oleifera leaves contain compounds that cause reduction in heart rate and relaxation of cardiac muscle and have medical use in management of cardiac conditions like hypertension.  

   

   

Katukrohini or kutaki [Picrorrhiza kurroa]: Kutaki has tikta rasa, katu vipaka and sheeta veerya. It possesses a strong hepato protective properties due to phytochemical picroliv and also have a potent antioxidant properties.  It is found to be effective against CCl4 induced hepatic damage in rats, by reversal of increased serum level of SGOT, SGPT, ALP, Cholesterol, Bilirubin and decreases level of total protein which occurs during hepatotoxicity.   

'''''Katukrohini''''' or ''kutaki'' (Picrorrhiza kurroa): ''Kutaki'' has ''tikta rasa, katu vipaka'' and ''sheeta veerya''. It possesses a strong hepatoprotective properties due to phytochemical picroliv and also have a potent antioxidant properties.  It is found to be effective against CCl4 induced hepatic damage in rats, by reversal of increased serum level of SGOT, SGPT, ALP, Cholesterol, Bilirubin and decreases level of total protein which occurs during hepatotoxicity.   

  Bruhati [Solanum indicum]: Bruhati has katu tikta rasa, katu vipaka and ushna veerya. Solanum indicum Linn. fruits have laxative and cardiotonic action.  

 

'''''Bruhati''''' (Solanum indicum): ''Bruhati'' has ''katu tikta rasa, katu vipaka'' and ''ushna veerya''. Solanum indicum Linn. fruits have laxative and cardiotonic action.  

 

Ativisha [Aconitum hetrophyllum] has  tikta katu rasa, katu vipaka and ushna veerya.  It is laghu and ruksha and hence is used in santarpaniya vyadhis. Research showed significant reduction in total cholesterol, TG, apolipoprotein B and increase HDL cholesterol & apolipoprotein A in serum samples and HMG CO A properties in liver samples. Properties of LCAT had increased & also there was increased fecal fat excretion. The mechanism explained for hypolipidemic properties was due to inhibition of HMG COA reductase properties and decrease fat absorption from intestine.  

Ativisha [Aconitum hetrophyllum] has  tikta katu rasa, katu vipaka and ushna veerya.  It is laghu and ruksha and hence is used in santarpaniya vyadhis. Research showed significant reduction in total cholesterol, TG, apolipoprotein B and increase HDL cholesterol & apolipoprotein A in serum samples and HMG CO A properties in liver samples. Properties of LCAT had increased & also there was increased fecal fat excretion. The mechanism explained for hypolipidemic properties was due to inhibition of HMG COA reductase properties and decrease fat absorption from intestine.  

Sthiram [Shliparni desmodium gangeticum]: It has madhura, tikta rasa, madhur vipaka and ushna veerya. It has alkaloids, pterocarpans, phospholipids, sterols, flavones and flavonoid glycosides. The plant shows many pharmacological activities like anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive, analgesic, anti-amnesic, anti-diabetic, anti-oxidant, anti-ulcer, and better CVS activites, CNS depressant, antibacterial, wound healing, antipyretic and several miscellaneous actions.  

Sthiram [Shliparni desmodium gangeticum]: It has madhura, tikta rasa, madhur vipaka and ushna veerya. It has alkaloids, pterocarpans, phospholipids, sterols, flavones and flavonoid glycosides. The plant shows many pharmacological activities like anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive, analgesic, anti-amnesic, anti-diabetic, anti-oxidant, anti-ulcer, and better CVS activites, CNS depressant, antibacterial, wound healing, antipyretic and several miscellaneous actions.