Charak Samhita

Chitraka: Difference between revisions

← Older edit
VisualWikitext
Agnivesha (talk | contribs)
Administrators, Editors, Bots, Bureaucrats, Charaksamhita, csmoderator, Interface administrators, Administrators
10,428 edits
No edit summary
 
(One intermediate revision by the same user not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
Plumbago zeylanica L.
{{#seo:
|title=Charak Samhita
|titlemode=append
|keywords= Plumbago zeylanica L., 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= '''Chitraka''' (''Plumbago zeylanica'' Linn.), commonly known as '''Ceylon leadwort''' or '''white leadwort''', is a distinguished perennial, sub-scandent [[shrub]] belonging to the family [[Plumbaginaceae]]
|image=http://www.carakasamhitaonline.com/resources/assets/ogimgs.jpg
|image_alt=charak samhita
|type=article
}}
 
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plumbago%20zeylanica Plumbago zeylanica L.]


{{Infobox
{{Infobox
Line 7: Line 17:
|label2 = Botanical name(s)
|label2 = Botanical name(s)
|data2 = Plumbago zeylanica L.
|data2 = Plumbago zeylanica L.
|label3 = Contributors
|label3 = Family
|data3 = --
|data3 = Plumbaginaceae
|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 ==  
'''Chitraka''' (''Plumbago zeylanica'' Linn.), commonly known as '''Ceylon leadwort''' or '''white leadwort''', is a distinguished perennial, sub-scandent shrub belonging to the family Plumbaginaceae, which spans approximately 10 genera and 280 species.<ref>{{cite journal|last=Mandavkar|first=Y. D.|date=2011|title=A comprehensive review on Plumbago zeylanica Linn|journal=African Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology|volume=5|issue=5|pages=1–10|doi=10.5897/ajpp11.739}}</ref> Revered for over 3,000 years within traditional Indian ([[Ayurveda]]) and Chinese medicine systems, Chitraka historically translates from Sanskrit to "the one which causes discoloration to the skin" due to the intense blistering properties of its fresh root juice.<ref>{{cite journal|last=Chetty|first=K. M.|title=Pharmaceutical Studies and Therapeutic Uses of Plumbago Zeylanica L. Roots (Chitraka, Chitramulamu)|journal=OpenSIUC|pages=1–10}}</ref>
[[File:Chitraka.jpg|thumb|'''Chitraka ''(Plumbago zeylanica)''''']]
The plant is widely distributed across tropical and subtropical zones globally. Its roots and root barks serve as a priceless repository for unique bioactive molecules, demonstrating extensive pharmacological applications ranging from anti-inflammatory to anticancer therapeutic actions.
 
== Botanical Profile and Vernacular Names ==
 
=== Vernacular Names ===
{| class="wikitable" style="width: 60%; text-align: left;"
! Language / Medical System !! Vernacular Name
|-
| '''[[Sanskrit]]''' || Chitraka, Chitramoolam, Agni, Dahana
|-
| '''[[English language|English]]''' || Ceylon Leadwort, White Leadwort, Wild Leadwort
|-
| '''[[Hindi]]''' || Chita, Chitrak, Chitarak
|-
| '''[[Bengali language|Bengali]]''' || Chita, Chitarak
|-
| '''[[Tamil language|Tamil]]''' || Chitramoolam, Kodiveli
|-
| '''[[Telugu language|Telugu]]''' || Chitramulam
|}
 
=== Morphological Characteristics ===
''Plumbago zeylanica'' is a perennial shrub with semi-woody stems and numerous rambling branches. Its leaves are simple, alternate, ovate or oblong-ovate, acute, and abruptly narrowed into a short petiole. The flowers are pure white, long, and slender, borne in terminal elongated spikes characterized by a persistent viscid, glandular calyx covered in sticky hairs. The roots are cylindrical, poorly branched, irregularly bent, and display shallow transverse fissures at their bends, featuring a dark brown bark and light yellow interior.
 
==Therapeutic uses==
Agnimandhya(loss of appetite), grahani roga, arsha(hemorrhoids),udara shoola(pain in abdomen), gudashotha(swelling on anal region)<ref>Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health nd Family welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume 1 :20</ref>


Leadwort
==Synonyms in Charak Samhita==
Chitraka, Analanama(it has a burning qualities like that of agni), Vyaal(it can tear apart unwanted tisue growth), Agni


== Synonyms in Charak Samhita==
==Synonyms in bhavaprakasa nighantu==
Usana(chitraka has katu(pungent) rasa and goes under katu(pungent)vipaka )<ref> Pro. Krushnachandra Chunekar, Bhavaprakash Nighantu. Reprint Edition 2020, Chaukhambha Bharati Academy, haritakyadi varga, verse no.-70</ref>


Chitraka, Analanama, Vyaal, Agni
==Varieties==
# Shweta-  plumbago zeylanica
# Rakta- plumbago rosea
# Nila- plumabago capensis
 
== Ayurvedic pharmacological properties ==
 
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Properties
|-
! Sr.no. !! Pharmacological criteria !! Properties
|-
| 1 || Taste ([[rasa]])  || Pungent (katu)
|-
| 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]], increases [[pitta]]
|}


== Reference in Charak Samhita and its actions ==  
== Reference in Charak Samhita and its actions ==  
Line 32: Line 96:
! Sr.no. !! Reference in Charak Samhita !! Activity  
! Sr.no. !! Reference in Charak Samhita !! Activity  
|-
|-
| 1 || Sutra sthana 2/18 || Deepaniya and Shulaghniyavagu
| 1  
| Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 2/18  
| Deepaniya and Shulaghni yavagu(Gruel for enhancing digestion and colic pain)
|-
|-
| 2 || Sutra sthana 2/29 || Bhediniyavagu
| 2  
| Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 2/29  
| Bhedini yavagu(Gruels for catharsis and flatulence)
|-
|-
| 3 || Sutra sthana 4/9(3) || Lekhaniyamahakashaya
| 3  
| Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(3)  
| Lekhaniya mahakashaya(emaciating)
|-
|-
| 4 || Sutra sthana 4/9(4) || Bhedaniyamahakashaya
| 4  
| Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(4)  
| Bhedaniya mahakashaya(breaking mass/solid lesions)
|-
|-
| 5 || Sutra sthana 4/9(6) || Deepaniyamahakashay
| 5  
| Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(6)  
| Deepaniya mahakashaya(Appetisers)
|-
|-
| 6 || Sutra sthana 4/9(11) || Truptighnamahakashay
| 6  
| Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(11)  
| Truptighna mahakashaya(anti-satiety)
|-
|-
| 7 || Sutra sthana 4/9(12) || Arshoghnamahakashay
| 7  
| Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(12)  
| Arshoghna mahakashaya(anti-hemorrhoids)
|-
|-
| 8 || Sutra sthana 4/9(45) || Shoolaprashamanmahakashaya
| 8  
| Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(45)  
| Shoolaprashaman mahakashaya(anti-spasmodics)
|-
|-
|9
| 9
|Ch  Vi 6/18
| Cha.Sa.[[Vimana Sthana]] 6/18
|Abhyantar Krimi Chikitsa
| Abhyantar Krimi Chikitsa(treatment of worm infestation)
|-
|-
|10
| 10
|Ch  Vi 6/26
| Cha.Sa.[[Vimana Sthana]] 6/26
|Abhyantar Krimi Chikitsa
| Abhyantar Krimi Chikitsa(treatment of worm infestation)
|-
|-
|11
| 11
|Ch.Vi.8/135
| Cha.Sa.[[Vimana Sthana]] 8/135
|Vaman dravyani
| Vaman dravyani(emetic dravya)
|-
|-
|12
|12
|Ch.Vi.8/135
|Cha.Sa.[[Vimana Sthana]] 8/135
|Vaman dravyani
|Vaman dravyani(emetic dravya)
|-
|-
|13
|13
|Vimana Sthana 8/142
|Cha.Sa.[[Vimana Sthana]] 8/142
|Katuskandha
|Katuskandha(group of pungent drugs)
|-
|-
|14
|14
|Ch.Sha.8/34
|Cha.Sa.[[Sharira Sthana]] 8/34
|Garbhasya  pratimasik karma
|Garbhasya  pratimasik karma
|-
|-
|15
|15
|Ch.Sha.8/38
|Cha.Sa.[[Sharira Sthana]] 8/38
|Sukha prasavarth
|Sukha prasavarth
|-
|-
|16
|16
|Ch.Sha.8/41
|Cha.Sa.[[Sharira Sthana]] 8/41
|Prajata stree paricharya
|Prajata stree paricharya
|-
|-
| 17 || [[Kalpa Sthana]] 1/ 22 || Vamanartha
| 17  
| Cha.Sa.[[Kalpa Sthana]] 1/ 22  
| Vamanartha (for emesis)
|-
|-
| 18 || [[Kalpa Sthana]] 7/16 || Preparations of Trivrut
| 18  
| Cha.Sa.[[Kalpa Sthana]] 7/16  
| Preparations of Trivrut
|-
|-
| 19 ||[[Kalpa Sthana]] 7/40 || Preparations of Modaka
| 19  
| Cha.Sa.[[Kalpa Sthana]] 7/40  
| Preparations of Modaka
|-
|-
| 20 ||[[Kalpa Sthana]] 7/54 || Trivrittadi Modaka
| 20  
| Cha.Sa.[[Kalpa Sthana]] 7/54  
| Trivrittadi Modaka
|-
|-
| 21 ||[[Kalpa Sthana]] 7/58 || Hemantkalina Trivrut Yoga
| 21  
| Cha.Sa.[[Kalpa Sthana]] 7/58  
| Hemantkalina Trivrut Yoga
|-
|-
| 22 ||[[Kalpa Sthana]] 7/70 || Madya Yoga
| 22  
| Cha.Sa.[[Kalpa Sthana]] 7/70  
| Madya Yoga
|-
|-
| 23 ||[[Kalpa Sthana]] 9/7 || Tilvaka Yoga
| 23  
| Cha.Sa.[[Kalpa Sthana]] 9/7  
| Tilvaka Yoga
|-
|-
| 24 ||[[Kalpa Sthana]] 9/7 || Tilvaka Sura Yoga
| 24  
| Cha.Sa.[[Kalpa Sthana]] 9/7  
| Tilvaka Sura Yoga
|-
|-
| 25 ||[[Kalpa Sthana]] 12/23 || Churna Yoga
| 25  
| Cha.Sa.[[Kalpa Sthana]] 12/23  
| Churna Yoga
|-
|-
| 26 ||[[Kalpa Sthana]] 12/27 || Modaka Yoga
| 26  
| Cha.Sa.[[Kalpa Sthana]] 12/27  
| Modaka Yoga
|-
|-
|27
|27
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa sthana 1/3/3
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 1/3/3
|In  formulation of amalakaayasa brahmarasayana
|In  formulation of amalakaayasa brahma rasayana
|-
|-
|28
|28
|Cha.sa.Chi.3/267
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 3/267
|As an ingredient of Agurvadi taila.
|As an ingredient of Agurvadi taila
|-
|-
|29
|29
|Cha.sa.Chi 5/65
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 5/65
|Ingredient in Trayushanaadi  ghrit
|Ingredient in Trayushanaadi  ghrita
|-
|-
|30
|30
|Cha.sa.Chi 5/69
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 5/69
|Ingredient of Hingusauvarchaladya  ghrit
|Ingredient of Hingusauvarchaladya  ghrita
|-
|-
|31
|31
|Cha.sa.Chi 5/71
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 5/71
|Ingredient of Hapushadya  ghrit
|Ingredient of Hapushadya  ghrita
|-
|-
|32
|32
|Cha.sa.Chi 5/80
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 5/80
|Ingredient of Hingvadi  churna
|Ingredient of Hingvadi  churna
|-
|-
|33
|33
|Cha.sa.Chi 5/86
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 5/86
|Ingredient of Shatyadi  Churna  
|Ingredient of Shatyadi  Churna  
|-
|-
|34
|34
|Cha.sa.Chi 5/144
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 5/144
|Ingredient in Bhallatakadya  Ghrit for Kaphaj Gulma
|Ingredient in Bhallatakadya  Ghrita for Kaphaj Gulma(abdominal lump)
|-
|-
|35
|35
|Cha.sa.Chi 5/147
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 5/147
|Ingredient in Kshir Shatpal  Ghrit
|Ingredient in Kshir Shatpal  Ghrita
|-
|-
|36
|36
|Cha.sa.Chi 5/154
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 5/154
|Ingredient of Danti-  Haritaki
|Ingredient of Danti-  Haritaki
|-
|-
|37
|37
|Cha.sa.Chi 5/165
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 5/165
|Pathya Diet in Gulma
|Pathya Diet in Gulma(abdominal lump)
|-
|-
|38
|38
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 6/29
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 6/29
|Used for making decoction in Kaphaj  Prameh
|Used for making decoction in Kaphaj  Prameh(diabetes)
|-
|-
|39
|39
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 6/42
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 6/42
|Ingredient  in Madhvasav
|Ingredient  in Madhvasav
|-
|-
|40
|40
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 8/101
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 8/101
|Ingredient in Avaleh  
|Ingredient in Avaleh  
|-
|-
|41
|41
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 8/169
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 8/169
|Ingredient in Strotosuddhikar  Ghrit
|Ingredient in Strotosuddhikar  Ghrita
|-
|-
|42
|42
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 10/20
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 10/20
|Ingredient in Mahapanchagavya  Ghrit
|Ingredient in Mahapanchagavya  Ghrita
|-
|-
|43
|43
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 12/24
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/24
|In treatment of Vataj  Svayathu
|In treatment of Vataj  Shvayathu
|-
|-
|44
|44
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 12/29
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/29
|Ingredient in Gandiradhyarisht
|Ingredient in Gandiradhyarishta
|-
|-
|45
|45
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 12/30
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/30
|Ingredient in Gandiradhyarisht
|Ingredient in Gandiradhyarishta
|-
|-
|46
|46
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 12/34
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/34
|Ingredient in Punarnavadhyarisht
|Ingredient in Punarnavadhyarishta
|-
|-
|47
|47
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 12/39
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/39
|Ingredient in Triphaladhyarisht
|Ingredient in Triphaladhyarishta
|-
|-
|48
|48
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 12/41
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/41
|Ingredient in Krishnadi  Churna
|Ingredient in Krishnadi  Churna
|-
|-
|49
|49
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 12/44
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/44
|Ingredient in Kshar Gudika
|Ingredient in Kshar Gudika
|-
|-
|50
|50
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 12/55
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/55
|Ingredient in Chitrakadi  Ghrit
|Ingredient in Chitrakadi  Ghrita
|-
|-
|51
|51
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 12/57
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/57
|Ingredient in Dvitiya  Chitrakadi Ghrit
|Ingredient in Dvitiya  Chitrakadi Ghrita
|-
|-
|52
|52
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 12/58
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/58
|Ingredient in Chitrak Ghrit
|Ingredient in Chitrak Ghrita
|-
|-
|53
|53
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 12/60
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/60
|Ingredient in Jivantyadi  Yavagu
|Ingredient in Jivantyadi  Yavagu
|-
|-
|54
|54
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 12/73
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/73
|As an Unmardan dravya  in Kaphaj Shvayathu
|As an Unmardan dravya  in Kaphaja Shvayathu(swelling)
|-
|-
|55
|55
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 13/79  
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 13/79  
|In treatment  of plihodara
|In treatment  of plihodara
|-
|-
|56
|56
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana13/80  
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 13/80  
|In  formulation of vidangadi kshara  
|In  formulation of vidangadi kshara  
|-
|-
|57
|57
|Cha. Sa. ChikitsaSthana13/84  
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 13/84  
|In  formulation of rohitaka ghrita
|In  formulation of rohitaka ghrita
|-
|-
|58
|58
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana13/112
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 13/112
|In  formulation of panchkola ghrita
|In  formulation of panchkola ghrita
|-
|-
|59
|59
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana13/116
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 13/116
|As an  ingredient of chitrakadi ghrita
|As an  ingredient of chitrakadi ghrita
|-
|-
|60
|60
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana13/137
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 13/137
|As an  ingredient of nilinadya churna
|As an  ingredient of nilinadya churna
|-
|-
|61
|61
|Cha. Sa. ChikitsaSthana13/147  
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 13/147  
|Kalka used in  udararoga for 1 month
|Kalka used in  udararoga for 1 month
|-
|-
|62
|62
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana13/163
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 13/163
|In  formulation of ksharvatika
|In  formulation of ksharvatika
|-
|-
|63
|63
|Cha Sa. Chikisa Sthan14/40
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 14/40
|As an  application of Talia before swedana Kriya, Used for lepa
|As an  application of Talia before swedana Kriya, Used for lepa
|-
|-
|64
|64
|Cha Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 14/62
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 14/62
|As an  ingredient of traushnadi churna
|As an  ingredient of traushnadi churna
|-
|-
|65
|65
|Cha Sa. Chikisa Sthana14/68
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 14/68
|Chiktrakamulanchurna  with didhu used in arsha roga
|Chiktrakamulanchurna  with didhu used in arsha roga
|-
|-
|66
|66
|Cha Sa. Chikisa Sthan14/69  
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 14/69  
|Chitraka churna  is used with madhya
|Chitraka churna  is used with madhya
|-
|-
|67
|67
|Cha Sa. Chikisa Sthana14/71
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 14/71
|Citraka  churna is to be given with takra
|Citraka  churna is to be given with takra
|-
|-
|68
|68
|Cha Sa. Chikisa
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 14/72  
 
|As an  ingredient of takrarishta
Sthan14/72  
|As an  ingredient of takrarista
|-
|-
|69
|69
|Cha Sa. Chikisa Sthana14/76  
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 14/76  
|Use dadhi and  takra (By application of citraka kalka in ghata)
|Use dadhi and  takra (By application of chitraka kalka in ghata)
|-
|-
|70
|70
|Cha Sa. Chikisa
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 14/89
 
|Used in peya,  khada yusha, ghrita, siddhant jala  
Sthan14/89
|Used in peya,  khada yusha, ghrit, siddhant jala  
|-
|-
|71
|71
|Cha Sa. Chikisa Sthana14/104  
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 14/104  
|As an  ingredient of pippalyadi ghrit
|As an  ingredient of pippalyadi ghrita
|-
|-
|72
|72
|Cha Sa. Chikisa
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 14/105  
 
Sthana 14/105  
|Cavya and citraka  sidhha ghrit with guda and yavakshara  
|Cavya and citraka  sidhha ghrit with guda and yavakshara  
|-
|-
|73
|73
|Cha Sa. Chikisa
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 14/107
 
|As an  ingredient of chavyadi ghrita
Sthana14/107
|As an  ingredient of cavyadighrit
|-
|-
|74
|74
|Cha Sa. Chikisa
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 14/110  
 
|As an  ingredient of nagaradya ghrita
Sthan14/110  
|As an  ingredient of nagaradyaghrit
|-
|-
|75
|75
|Cha Sa. Chikisa
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 14/122  
 
Sthan14/122  
|Shaka prayoga  in arsha roga  
|Shaka prayoga  in arsha roga  
|-
|-
|76
|76
|Cha Sa. Chikisa Sthana 14/131
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 14/131
|Used in  anuvasana basti
|Used in  anuvasana basti
|-
|-
|77
|77
|Cha Sa. Chikisa
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 14/144  
 
|As an  ingredient of dantyarishta
Sthana14/144  
|As an  ingredient of dantyarista
|-
|-
|78
|78
|Cha Sa. Chikisa
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 14/148  
 
Sthana14/148  
|As an  ingredient of phalarista  
|As an  ingredient of phalarista  
|-
|-
|79
|79
|Cha Sa. Chikisa
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 14/153
 
Sthana 14/153
|As an  ingredient of dvitiya phalarista  
|As an  ingredient of dvitiya phalarista  
|-
|-
|80
|80
|Cha Sa. Chikisa
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 14/159  
 
Sthana 14/159  
|As an  ingredient of kanakarista
|As an  ingredient of kanakarista
|-
|-
|81
|81
|Cha Sa. Chikisa
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 14/231
 
|As an  ingredient of hriberadi ghrita
Sthana 14/231
|As an  ingredient of hriberadi ghrit
|-
|-
|82
|82
|Cha Sa. Chikisa Sthana 14/236
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 14/236
|As an  ingredient of sunishanak changeri ghrit
|As an  ingredient of sunishanak changeri ghrita
|-
|-
|83
|83
|
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/76
Cha Sa. Chi.15/76
 
|Panchakola  sadhit peya and Anna is given in Amaja grahani roga
|Panchakola  sadhit peya and Anna is given in Amaja grahani roga
|-
|-
|84
|84
|
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/82
Cha Sa. Chi.15/82
|As an  ingredient of dashmuladya ghrita
|As an  ingredient of dashmuladya ghrit
|-
|-
|85
|85
|
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/96
Cha Sa. Chi.15/96
|As an  ingredient of citrakadhya gutika
|As an  ingredient of citrakadhya gutika
|-
|-
|86
|86
|
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/103
Cha Sa. Chi.15/103
|Used in  condition of shoola in kaphapittaja grahani
|Used in  condition of shoola in kaphapittaja grahani
|-
|-
|87
|87
|
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/106
Cha Sa. Chi.15/106
|Agnivruddhiartha  and for alleviating kostha gaya kayu in grahaniroga
|Agnivruddhiartha  and for alleviating kostha gaya kayu in grahaniroga
|-
|-
|88
|88
|
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/112
Cha Sa. Chi.15/112
|Used as  ingredient of yavagu
|Used as  ingredient of yavagu
|-
|-
|89
|89
|
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/132
Cha Sa. Chi.15/132
|This drug is  used in treatment of pittajagrahani as an ingredient of Bhunimbadhya churna
|This drug is  used in treatment of pittajagrahani as an ingredient of Bhunimbadhya churna
|-
|-
|90
|90
|
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/142
Cha Sa. Chi.15/142
|Used as peya  padartha in Kaphaja grahani  
|Used as peya  padartha in Kaphaja grahani  
|-
|-
|91
|91
|
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/146
Cha Sa. Chi.15/146
|As an  ingredient of madhookasava
|As an  ingredient of madhookasava
|-
|-
|92
|92
|
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/152
Cha Sa. Chi.15/152
|As an  ingredient of Duralabhasava(Kaphaja grahani )
|As an  ingredient of Duralabhasava(Kaphaja grahani )
|-
|-
|93
|93
|
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/165
Cha Sa. Chi.15/165
|As an  ingredient of Madhvarista
|As an  ingredient of Madhvarista
|-
|-
|94
|94
|
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/171
Cha Sa. Chi.15/171
|As an  ingredient of Kshara ghrita
|As an  ingredient of Kshara ghrit
|-
|-
|95
|95
|
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/173
Cha Sa. Chi.15/173
|As an  ingredient of Pipallimuladhya Kshara
|As an  ingredient of Pipallimuladhya Kshara
|-
|-
|96
|96
|
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/182
Cha Sa. Chi.15/182
|As an  ingredient of Bhunimbadhya Kshara
|As an  ingredient of Bhunimbadhya Kshara
|-
|-
|97
|97
|
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/186
Cha Sa. Chi.15/186
|Used in  preparation of Chaturtha Kshara
|Used in  preparation of Chaturtha Kshara
|-
|-
|98
|98
|
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/189
Cha Sa. Chi.15/189
|Used in  preparation of Pancham Kshara
|Used in  preparation of Pancham Kshara
|-
|-
|99
|99
|Cha.Sa. Chi. 16/44
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 16/44
 
|As an ingredient of Dadimadi Ghrita
 
|As an ingredient of Dadimadi Ghrit
|-
|-
|100
|100
|Cha.Sa. Chi. 16/70
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 16/70
|As an ingredient of Navayas Loha
|As an ingredient of Navayas Loha
|-
|-
|101
|101
|Cha.Sa. Chi. 16/73
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 16/73
 
 
|As an ingredient of Mandur Vataka
|As an ingredient of Mandur Vataka
|-
|-
|102
|102
|Cha.Sa. Chi. 16/78
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 16/78
|As an ingredient of Suwarna Makshika Yoga
|As an ingredient of Suwarna Makshika Yoga
|-
|-
|103
|103
|Cha.Sa. Chi. 16/81
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 16/81
|As an ingredient of Yogaraj
|As an ingredient of Yogaraj
|-
|-
|104
|104
|Cha.Sa. Chi. 16/93
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 16/93
|As an ingredient of Punarnava Mandura
|As an ingredient of Punarnava Mandura
|-
|-
|105
|105
|Cha.Sa. Chi. 16/102
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 16/102
|As an ingredient of Mandura Vataka
|As an ingredient of Mandura Vataka
|-
|-
|106
|106
|Cha. Sa.Chikitsa
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 17/94
 
|Used in yusha  preparation for hikka shvasa
Sthana17/94
|Used in yusha  preparation for hikka svasa
|-
|-
|107
|107
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 17/96
 
|Used in yusha  preparation for hikka shvasa
17/96
|Used in yusha  preparation for hikka svasa
|-
|-
|108
|108
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 17/101
 
|Used in yavagu  preparation for hikka shvasa
17/101
|Used in yavagu  preparation for hikka svasa
|-
|-
|109
|109
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 17/110
 
|Kalka is used in  hikka shvasa
17/110
|Kalka is used in  hikka svasa
|-
|-
|110
|110
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana17/142
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 17/142
|As an ingredient of  Tejovatyadi ghrit
|As an ingredient of  Tejovatyadi ghritA
|-
|-
|111
|111
|Cha.sa.chi.18/36
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/36
|Use as an  ingredient of pippalyadi ghrita.
|Use as an  ingredient of pippalyadi ghrita
|-
|-
|112
|112
|Cha.sa.chi.18/39
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/39
|Use as an  ingredient of triushanadi ghrita.
|Use as an  ingredient of triushanadi ghrita
|-
|-
|113
|113
|Cha.sa.chi.18/53
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/53
|Use as an  ingredient of chitrakadi leha.
|Use as an  ingredient of chitrakadi leha
|-
|-
|114
|114
|Cha.sa.chi.18/57
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/57
|Use as an  ingredient of agastya haritaki leha.
|Use as an  ingredient of Agastya haritaki leha
|-
|-
|115
|115
|Cha.sa.chi.18/77
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/77
|Use as an  ingredient of peya yoga.
|Use as an  ingredient of peya yoga
|-
|-
|116
|116
|Cha.sa.chi.18/119
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/119
|Use as a yoga  dravya.
|Use as a yoga  dravya.
|-
|-
|117
|117
|Cha.sa.chi.18/158
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/158
|Use as an  ingredient of dwipanchamuladi ghrita.
|Use as an  ingredient of dwipanchamuladi ghrita
|-
|-
|118
|118
|Cha.sa.chi.18/161
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/161
 
|Use as an  ingredient of guduchyadi ghrita
|Use as an  ingredient of guduchyadi ghrita.
|-
|-
|119
|119
|Cha.sa.chi.18/173
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/173
 
|Use as an  ingredient of chitrakadi leha
|Use as an  ingredient of chitrakadi leha.
|-
|-
|120
|120
|Cha.sa.chi.18/178
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/178
|Use as an  ingredient of jivantyadi leha.
|Use as an  ingredient of jivantyadi leha
|-
|-
|121
|121
|Cha.sa.chi.18/182
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/182
|Use as an  ingredient of yavagu.
|Use as an  ingredient of yavagu
|-
|-
|122
|122
|Cha.sa.chi.19/27
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 19/27
 
|As an ingridient of dipaniya and sangrahi gana
|As a Ingridient of dipaniya and sangrahi gana
|-
|-
|123
|123
|Cha.sa.chi.19/44
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 19/44
|As an ingredient of chavyadi ghrita.
|As an ingredient of chavyadi ghrita
|-
|-
|124
|124
|Cha.sa.chi.19/45
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 19/45
|As a anuvasana dravya
|As a anuvasana dravya
|-
|-
|125
|125
|Cha.sa.chi.19/106
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 19/106
|As a kwath dravya
|As a kwath dravya
|-
|-
|126
|126
|Cha.sa.chi.19/113
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 19/113
|As a yoga dravya
|As a yoga dravya
|-
|-
|127
|127
|Cha.Sa.Chi.20/35
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 20/35
|As a pathya  ahara in kaphaja chhardi.
|As a pathya  ahara in kaphaja chhardi
|-
|-
|128
|128
|Cha.Sa.Chi.21/126
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 21/126
|As an ingredient  of Dantyadi lepa.
|As an ingredient  of Dantyadi lepa(external application)
|-
|-
|129
|129
|Cha.sa.Chi.26/20
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/20
|As an ingredient of  Dviruttarahingvadi churna.
|As an ingredient of  Dviruttarahingvadi churna
|-
|-
|130
|130
|Cha.sa.Chi.26/21
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/21
|As an ingredient of  Vachadi churna
|As an ingredient of  Vachadi churna
|-
|-
|131
|131
|Cha.sa.Chi.26/24
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/24
|Used for udavarta.
|Used for udavarta
|-
|-
|132
|132
|Cha.sa.Chi.26/65
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/65
|As an ingredient of  Trutyadi churna.
|As an ingredient of  Trutyadi churna
|-
|-
|133
|133
|Cha.sa.Chi.26/192
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/192
|As an ingredient of Kshara  gutika.
|As an ingredient of Kshara  gutika
|-
|-
|134
|134
|Cha.sa.Chi.26/195
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/195
|As an ingredient of Kalaka churna.
|As an ingredient of Kalaka churna
|-
|-
|135
|135
|Cha.sa.Chi.26/272
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/272
|As an ingredient of Mahaneela taila.
|As an ingredient of Mahaneela taila
|-
|-
|136
|136
|Cha.sa.Chi.26/287
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/287
|Used in Kaphaja swarbheda.
|Used in Kaphaja swarbheda
|-
|-
|137
|137
|Ca.Sa.Chi.27/32
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 27/32
 
|As an ingredient  of Urustambha nashak Yoga
|As an ingredient  of Urustambha nashak Yoga
|-
|-
|138
|138
|Ca.Sa.Chi.27/35
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 27/35
|As an ingredient  of Murvadi choorna
|As an ingredient  of Murvadi choorna
|-
|-
|139
|139
|Ca.Sa.Chi.27/37
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 27/37
|As an ingredient  of Swarnakshiradi Yoga
|As an ingredient  of Swarnakshiradi Yoga
|-
|-
|140
|140
|Ca.Sa.Chi.27/45
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 27/45
|As an ingredient  of  Saindhavadi Taila
|As an ingredient  of  Saindhavadi Taila
|-
|-
|141
|141
|Cha.Sa.Chi.28/122
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/122
|As an ingredient of Chitrakadi ghrita.
|As an ingredient of Chitrakadi ghrita
|-
|-
|142
|142
|Cha.Sa.Chi.28/130
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/130
|As an ingredient of Triphaladi maha sneha.
|As an ingredient of Triphaladi maha sneha
|-
|-
|143
|143
|Cha.Sa.Chi.28/167
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/167
|As an ingredient of Mulakadhya taila.
|As an ingredient of Mulakadhya taila
|-
|-
|144
|144
|Cha.Sa.Chi.28/170
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/170
|As an ingredient of Vrushamuladi taila.
|As an ingredient of Vrushamuladi taila
|-
|-
|145
|145
|Cha.Sa.chi.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
|-
|-
|146
|146
|Cha.Sa.Chi.30/55
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 30/55
|As an ingredient of Pippalyadi yoga.
|As an ingredient of Pippalyadi yoga
|-
|-
|147
|147
|Cha.Sa.Chi.30/59
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 30/59
|As an ingredient of  Guduchyadi taila, used in the treatment of Vataja yoni roga.
|As an ingredient of  Guduchyadi taila, used in the treatment of Vataja yoni roga
|-
|-
|148.
|148.
|Cha.Sa.Chi.30/280
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 30/280
|Used in the treatment of Gaurava stanya dosha, as an  ingredient of Pippalyadi kwatha.
|Used in the treatment of Gaurava stanya dosha, as an  ingredient of Pippalyadi kwatha
|-
|-
|}
|}


== Ayurvedic pharmacological properties ==  
==Dose==  
* 1-2 gm of the drug in powder form<ref>Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health nd Family welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume 1 :20</ref>


{| class="wikitable"
==Important formulation==
|+ Properties
As per A.P.I.<ref>Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health nd Family welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume 1 :20</ref>
|-
* Chitrakadi vati
! Sr.no. !! Pharmacological criteria !! Properties
* Chitrakharitaki
|-
* Chitrakadi churna
| 1 || Taste ([[rasa]])  || Pungent (katu)
|-
| 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]], increases [[pitta]]
|}
 
== Current availability==  
== Current availability==  


Available  
Available  
India -  Karnataka, Kerala , Tamilanadu, Andhra pradesh, Uttar pradesh


== Current researches ==
== Current researches ==


[[Category: Database of herbs and minerals | Herbs]]
== Phytochemical Composition ==
  This article is under development ..
The therapeutic prowess of ''Plumbago zeylanica'' is heavily rooted in its secondary metabolite profile, localized primarily within its root system. The primary bioactive constituent is '''Plumbagin''' (5-hydroxy-2-methyl-1,4-naphthoquinone), a natural cyclic naphthoquinone structurally similar to Vitamin K.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Petrocelli|first1=G.|last2=Marrazzo|first2=P.|last3=Bonsi|first3=L.|last4=Facchin|first4=F.|last5=Alviano|first5=F.|last6=Canaider|first6=S.|date=2023|title=Plumbagin, a Natural Compound with Several Biological Effects and Anti-Inflammatory Properties|journal=Life|volume=13|issue=6|pages=1303|doi=10.3390/life13061303}}</ref>
 
Other notable phytoconstituents isolated from the roots include:
 
* '''Naphthoquinones:''' 3-chloroplumbagin, 2,3-biplumbagin, chitranone (3,3'-biplumbagin), zeylinone, isozeylinone, droserone, elliptinone, and plumbazeylanone.
* '''Organic Acids & Sterols:''' Plumbagic acid, sitosterol, lupeol, lupenyl acetate, and hentriacontane.
* '''Enzymes:''' Protease and invertase, which support its recognized digestive capabilities.
 
In contrast to the roots, the aerial components (leaves and stems) contain negligible amounts of plumbagin.
 
== Traditional Ayurvedic Applications ==
In the Ayurvedic system of medicine, Chitraka is classified as a potent herb that pacifies vitiated ''Vata'' and ''Kapha'' [[Dosha]]s while increasing ''Pitta''. It is deeply integrated into classical formulations like ''Chitrakadi Vati'', ''Chitrakadi Gutika'', and ''Chitrakaharitaki''. Traditionally, its medicinal actions are recognized as:
 
* '''Deepana & Pachana:''' Rekindling the digestive fire (''Agni'') and promoting assimilation, making it highly effective against dyspepsia, indigestion, flatulence, and loss of appetite.
* '''Arshoghna:''' Specifically indicated for the treatment of ''Arsha'' (hemorrhoids/piles), where internal paste or cold infusions are historically administered to shrink hemorrhoidal masses.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Nandi|first1=A.|last2=Nigar|first2=T.|last3=Das|first3=A.|last4=Dey|first4=Y. N.|date=2023|title=Network pharmacology analysis of ''Plumbago zeylanica'' to identify the therapeutic targets and molecular mechanisms involved in ameliorating hemorrhoids|journal=Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics|volume=43|issue=1|pages=161–175|doi=10.1080/07391102.2023.2280681}}</ref>
* '''Shothahara:''' Reducing inflammation, treating chronic skin disorders (including symptoms allied with [[leprosy]]), and managing conditions like nervous palsy, epilepsy, and anemia.
 
== Pharmacological Efficacy & Scientific Evidence ==
 
=== Antioxidant and Cytoprotective Activity ===
The aqueous and alcoholic root extracts of Chitraka, alongside its chief component plumbagin, exhibit robust antioxidant capacities. Pulse radiolysis studies indicate that plumbagin interacts efficiently with volatile free radicals such as hydroxyl (•OH), alkyl peroxyl, and glutathiyl radicals to yield stable phenoxyl radicals.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Tilak|first1=J. C.|last2=Adhikari|first2=S.|last3=Devasagayam|first3=T. P. A.|date=2004|title=Antioxidant properties of ''Plumbago zeylanica'', an Indian medicinal plant and its active ingredient, plumbagin|journal=Redox Report|volume=9|issue=4|pages=219–227|doi=10.1179/135100004225005976}}</ref> This mechanism significantly suppresses lipid peroxidation induced by cumene hydroperoxide and peroxynitrite, protecting cell lines from hydrogen peroxide-mediated oxidative damage.
 
=== Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic Effects ===
Plumbagin acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory scaffold by modifying cellular redox states. It downregulates key pro-inflammatory targets and interrupts the electron transport chain during oxidative phosphorylation, effectively quelling hyper-inflammatory states in various in vitro and in vivo models. This provides a firm molecular basis for the traditional use of Chitraka in arthritic pain, headaches, and localized body inflammation.
 
=== Anticancer and Cytotoxic Potential ===
Extensive preclinical research highlights Chitraka's efficacy against multiple oncogenic pathways. Bioassay-guided fractionation demonstrates that the dichloromethane fraction of ''P. zeylanica'' roots triggers apoptosis (programmed cell death) and arrests the cell cycle at G0/G1 and G2/M phases.<ref>{{cite journal|last=Thiruchenduran|first=M.|title=Synergistic anticancer effect of combined use of (plumbagin, cis-Isoshinanolone, 3'-O-β-glucopyranosyl plumbagic acid) isolated from Plumbago zeylanica, induces cell death through apoptosis in human HepG2 cancer cells|journal=bioRxiv|pages=1–15}}</ref>
 
Plumbagin acts as a pro-oxidant in cancer cells, inhibiting multiple molecular hallmarks including protein kinase C epsilon, which blocks tumor growth and invasion in hormone-refractory prostate cancer, hepatoma (HepG2), breast cancer, melanoma, and leukemia.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Yin|first1=Z.|last2=Zhang|first2=J.|last3=Chen|first3=L.|last4=Guo|first4=Q.|last5=Yang|first5=B.|last6=Zhang|first6=W.|last7=Kang|first7=W.|date=2020|title=Anticancer Effects and Mechanisms of Action of Plumbagin: Review of Research Advances|journal=BioMed Research International|volume=2020|pages=1–15|doi=10.1155/2020/6940953}}</ref> Combined fractions containing plumbagin, cis-isoshinanolone, and 3'-O-β-glucopyranosyl plumbagic acid demonstrate a superior synergistic cytotoxic action compared to single isolated molecules.
 
=== Gastrointestinal and Anti-Hemorrhoidal Action ===
Network pharmacology and in silico docking analyses have uncovered the multi-target mechanisms by which Chitraka treats hemorrhoids (piles). Bioactive root compounds selectively bind to core target proteins including PIK3CA, EGFR, PRKCA, VEGFA, MMP-9, and NOS2. This modulates cell migration, population proliferation, and vascular remodeling, directly suppressing the pathological angiogenesis and abnormal vasodilation that drive hemorrhoidal development.
 
=== Metabolic and Retinopathy Protection ===
Network pharmacology and molecular dynamics simulations demonstrate Chitraka’s utility in managing chronic diabetic complications. Root extracts effectively interfere with pathways governing diabetic retinopathy (DR). Plumbagin counters chronic retinal inflammation and intercepts angiogenesis pathways mediated by vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2).<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Sahu|first1=N.|last2=Tyagi|first2=R.|last3=Kumar|first3=N.|last4=Mujeeb|first4=M.|last5=Akhtar|first5=A.|last6=Alam|first6=P.|last7=Madan|first7=S.|date=2024|title=Forecasting the Pharmacological Mechanisms of Plumbago zeylanica and Solanum xanthocarpum in Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment|journal=Biology|volume=13|issue=9|pages=732|doi=10.3390/biology13090732}}</ref> Furthermore, its active components align with the PI3K-AKT signaling cascade and EGFR tyrosine kinase networks, offering a strategic multi-target approach to prevent abnormal microvascular growth in the retina.
 
== Safety, Toxicity, and Processing ==
Despite its profound therapeutic advantages, Chitraka is classified as a toxic plant in its raw, unprocessed state due to its highly caustic nature. Crude administration of high doses induces acute gastric irritation, severe vomiting, bloody diarrhea, gastrointestinal ulceration, painful micturition, and acts as a dangerous abortifacient.
 
Consequently, traditional medicine systems mandate a strict ''Shodhana'' (purification process) before clinical formulation. This typically involves cutting the roots into small pieces and soaking them in lime water (calcium hydroxide) for a specific duration, which chemically modulates and reduces the toxic over-concentration of plumbagin to safe, therapeutic thresholds.
 
== Conclusion ==
Chitraka (''Plumbago zeylanica'') represents a highly potent therapeutic agent backed by millennia of traditional practice and substantial modern scientific validation. Its core bioactive naphthoquinone, plumbagin, acts via complex redox-balancing, anti-angiogenic, and apoptotic pathways to address oncology, chronic inflammation, metabolic disorders, and vascular diseases like hemorrhoids. Continued research and human clinical trials are imperative to safely translate these preclinical findings into standardized modern therapeutics.
 
== References ==
{{reflist}}
 
== External links ==
 
* [https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Plumbagin NCBI PubChem - Plumbagin]
* [https://cb.imsc.res.in/imppat/phytochemical/Plumbago%20zeylanica IMPPAT Database]
 
[[index.php?title=Category:Database of herbs and minerals| Herbs]]
Retrieved from "https://www.charakasamhitauptodate.com/index.php?title=Chitraka"