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Derris indica (LAM.) BENNET
{{#seo:
|title=Charak Samhita
|titlemode=append
|keywords= Karanja,Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierre,Indian beech, Pongam oil tree,  Fabaceae (Papilionaceae),Naktamala, Chirabilvaka, skin and hair oil,  Therapeutic use, herbs, researches on dravya, Charak Samhita, Dravyaguna, carakasamhitaonline, carakasamhita, caraka samhita, Ayurveda, Charak Samhita English translation, ancient Ayurveda text, Indian system of medicine, Ayurveda, Charak, Charaka Samhita, agnivesha, atreya, gopal basisht, yogesh deole, charak samhita wikipedia edition, charak samhita new edition, charaka samhita new edition, carak samhita new edition, caraka samhita new edition, research on charak samhita, text book charak samhita, fundamental principles of ayurveda, basic concepts of ayurveda,
|description= Karanja(Pongamia pinnata Pierre, English: Indian beech) is celebrated for its potent anthelmintic (Krumighna), wound-cleansing and healing (Vrana Shodhana), and dermatological (Kushthaghna) properties.
|image=http://www.carakasamhitaonline.com/resources/assets/ogimgs.jpg
|image_alt=charak samhita
|type=article
}}
 
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pongamia Karanja (Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierre)]
 
{{Infobox
{{Infobox
|title = Karanja
|title = Karanja
|label1 = Section/Chapter
|label1 = Section/Chapter
|data1 = Herb database/Karanja
|data1 = Herb database/Manjishtha
|label2 = Botanical name(s)
|label2 = Botanical name(s)
|data2 = Derris indica (LAM.) BENNET
|data2 = Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierre (Synonyms: Millettia pinnata (L.) Panigrahi, Pongamia glabra Vent.
|label3 = Contributors
|label3 = Family
|data3 = --
|data3 = Fabaceae (Papilionaceae)
|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 = {{DoiWithLink}}
}}
}}
[[File:Karanja.jpg|thumb|'''Karanja (''Pongamia pinnata'')''']]
'''Karanja''' (Latin: ''Pongamia pinnata'' Pierre, English: '''Indian beech''') is a medium-sized deciduous or evergreen tree belonging to the family Fabaceae (traditionally Papilionaceae). In Ayurveda, it is celebrated for its potent anthelmintic (''Krumighna''), wound-cleansing and healing (''Vrana Shodhana''), and dermatological (''Kushthaghna'') properties.<ref name="API">Anonymous. ''The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India''. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume 1: 40.</ref>


==English name ==
== Synonyms in Classical Texts ==
* '''Synonyms in Bhavaprakash Nighantu:'''<ref name="Bhavaprakash">Prof. Krushnachandra Chunekar, ''Bhavaprakash Nighantu''. Reprint Edition 2020, Chaukhambha Bharati Academy, Guduchyadi varga, verse no. 119–120.</ref>
** ''Karanja'' &ndash; The flowers of Karanja are curved/shaped like nails.
** ''Naktamala'' &ndash; The flowers bloom/blossom during the night.
** ''Chirabilvaka''
* '''Plant Parts Used:''' Seeds, seed oil, leaves, stem bark, flowers, and roots.


--
== Varieties ==
Classical texts recognize several varieties of Karanja:


== Synonyms in Charak Samhita==
=== According to Bhavaprakash Nighantu ===
Naktamala, Prakirya
# '''Ghrita Karanja'''
# '''Kantakari Karanja'''
# '''Karanji'''


== Reference in Charak Samhita and its actions ==  
=== According to Raja Nighantu ===
# '''Karanja'''
# '''Ghrita Karanja'''
# '''Mahakaranja'''
# '''Putikaranja'''
# '''Guccha Karanja'''
# '''Ritha Karanja'''<ref name="RajaNighantu">Dr. Indradev Tripathi, ''Raja Nighantu of Pandit Narhari''. Edition 2006, Chaukhambha Krishnadas Academy, Varanasi, Prabhadradi varga, verse no. 62, 64, 67, 68, 70, 72.</ref>


{| class="wikitable"
== Ayurvedic Pharmacological Properties ==
|+ Herbs and their activities
According to Ayurvedic pharmacodynamics, the properties (''Rasa Panchaka'') of Karanja are summarized below:<ref name="API" />
|-
! Sr.no. !! Reference in Charak Samhita !! Activity
|-
!1
|Sutra sthana  1/82
|Phalini (Virechana)


(Therapeutic  purgation)
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:left;"
! Sr. No. !! Pharmacological Criteria !! Properties (Ayurvedic Attributes)
|-
|-
!2
| 1 || '''Taste (''[[Rasa]]'')''' || Pungent (''Katu''), Bitter (''Tikta'')
|Sutra sthana 3/3
|Siddhatama  churna pradeha
|-
|-
!3
| 2 || '''Potency (''[[Veerya]]'')''' || Hot (''Ushna'')
|Sutra sthana  5/73
|Danta pavana
|-
|-
!4
| 3 || '''Post-digestion Effect (''[[Vipaka]]'')''' || Pungent (''Katu'')
|Sutra  Sthana 13/10
|Sthavara  Sneha Yoni (Vegetable origin of lipids)
|-
|-
!5
| 4 || '''Qualities (''[[Guna]]'')''' || Sharp (''Tikshna'')
|Sutra Sthana  14/31
|Dravya for  Nadi Sweda
|-
|-
!6
| 5 || '''Actions (''[[Karma]]'')''' || ''Krumijit'' (anthelmintic / antiparasitic), ''Kushthaghna'' (cures skin diseases), ''Kaphavatahara'' (pacifies Kapha and Vata doshas), ''Vrana Shodhana'' (cleanses and purifies wounds/ulcers)
|Sutra  Sthana 14/43
|}
|Dravya for  Nadi Sweda
 
== References in Charaka Samhita ==
Karanja is extensively mentioned in the ''Charaka Samhita'' across various clinical contexts and formulations:
 
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:left;"
! Sr. No. !! Reference in Charaka Samhita !! Activity / Formulation / Indication
|-
|-
!7
| 1 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 3/3 || Formulations used for local external application
|Ch Su 27/160
|Phala Varga
|-
|-
!8
| 2 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 3/13 || Rasanjanadi formulation
|Ch. Ni .2/4
|Nidana
|-
|-
!9
| 3 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 3/14 || Haridradi formulation
|Ch Vi 6/17
|Abhyantar Krimi  Chikitsa
|-
|-
!10
| 4 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 3/15 || Manahshiladi formulation
|Ch Vi 6/26
|Abhyantar Krimi  Chikitsa
|-
|-
!11
| 5 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 5/73 || Used as a tooth-cleaning twig (toothbrush / ''Dantadhavana'')
|Ch.Vi.8/135
|Vaman dravyani
|-
|-
!12
| 6 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 13/10 || Classification as vegetable/plant sources of lipids (''Sneha Dravya'')
|Vimana Sthana 8/142
|Katuskandha
|-
|-
!13
| 7 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 14/31 || Ingredient of decoction used for steam fomentation (''Nadi Sweda'')
|Vimana Sthana 8/143
|Tiktaskandha
|-
|-
!14
| 8 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 14/43 || Ingredient of decoction used for steam fomentation (''Nadi Sweda'')
|Ch.Sha.8/56
|Kshira vishodhan  dravya
|-
|-
!15
| 9 || Cha.Sa.[[Nidana Sthana]] 2/4 || Mentioned in context as an etiological factor in bleeding disorders (''Raktapitta'')
|Kalpa Sthana 1/22
|Vamanartha
|-
|-
!`16
| 10 || Cha.Sa.[[Vimana Sthana]] 7/17 || Used in the management and treatment of parasitic infestations (''Krumi Roga'')
|KalpaSthana  11/11
|SaptalaShankhini  Yoga
|-
|-
!17
| 11 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/48 || Ingredient of therapeutic formulations used in skin diseases (''Kushtha'')
|KalpaSthana  11/13
|Ghrita  Yoga
|-
|-
!18
| 12 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/56 || Ingredient of formulations used in the treatment of skin diseases (''Kushtha'')
|Cha.sa.Chi.3/267
|As an ingredient of Agurvadi taila.
|-
|-
!19
| 13 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/91 || Ingredient of ''Siddharthaka Snana'' (medicated bath) for dermatoses
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 7/48
|As Nashya in Kushth
|-
|-
!20
| 14 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/93 || Used as an external application (''Lepa'')
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 7/56
|For Scrapping
|-
|-
!21
| 15 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/94 || Used as an external application (''Lepa'')
|Cha. Sa.  Chikitsa Sthana 7/91
|Ingredient in Sidhdharthak  snan and Lepa
 
Abhyantar and Bahya-shodhanarth
|-
!22
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 7/93
|Bahyaprayogarth Lepa in Kushth 
|-
!23
|Cha. Sa.  Chikitsa Sthana 7/94
|Bahyaprayogarth Lepa in Kushth 
|-
|-
!24
| 16 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/111 || Ingredient of ''Kanakaksheeri Tailam''
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 7/95
|Bahyaprayogarth Lepa in Kushth 
|-
|-
!25
| 17 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/119 || Formulation drug (''Yoga Dravya'') used in skin diseases (''Kushtha'')
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 7/111
|Ingredient in Kanakakshiri  Tail
|-
|-
!26
| 18 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/152 || Ingredient of ''Maha Khadira Ghrita''
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 7/119
|Kushthahar Tail 
|-
|-
!27
| 19 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/158 || Formulation drug used in parasitic / infective dermatoses (''Krumi Kushtha'')
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 7/152
|Ingredient in Mahakhadir  Ghrit
|-
|-
!28
| 20 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 10/44 || Used in nasal errhines / errhine therapy (''Nasya'')
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 7/158
|Abhyantar and Bahyaprayogarth, Pana, Snan, Lepa
|-
|-
!29
| 21 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/67 || Ingredient of medicated water used for therapeutic baths
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 9/69
|Ingredient in Siddharthakadi  Agad
|-
|-
!30
| 22 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 14/57 || Formulation drug used for external therapeutic application
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 10/44
|As a Nasya dravya
|-
|-
!31
| 23 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 14/101 || Formulation drug in the treatment of hemorrhoids associated with constipation
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 12/67
|As a Snan dravya for Bahyaprayogarth
|-
|-
!32
| 24 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/179 || Ingredient in alkaline preparations (''Kshara Kalpana'')
|Cha. Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 14/5
|Used as lepa on arsha
|-
|-
!33
| 25 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 21/137 || Formulation drug used in the treatment of cystic erysipelas (''Granthi Visarpa'')
|Cha. Sa. Chiktsa Sthana14/101
|For  varchonulomana and vatanulomana
|-
|-
!34
| 26 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 23/69 || Formulation drug utilized for nasal administration (''Nasya'')
|Cha.Sa.Chi.21/124
|For pradeha  prayoga in granthi visarpa.
|-
|-
!35
| 27 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 23/70 || Ingredient of ''Gandhahasti Agada''
|Cha.Sa.Chi.21/137
|As an ingredient  of Kampillakadi taila.
|-
|-
!36
| 28 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 23/79 || Ingredient of ''Mahagandhahastinama Agada''
|Cha.Sa.Chi.23/69
|For Anjana prayoga, if obstruction is there in eye.
|-
|-
!37
| 29 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 23/209 || Formulation drug used in scorpion bite poisoning
|Cha.Sa.Chi.23/70
|As an ingredient of Gandha hasti agada.
|-
|-
!38
| 30 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 23/216 || Formulation drug used in the treatment of house lizard venom poisoning
|Cha.Sa.Chi.23/79
|As an ingredient of Maha -Gandha hasti agada.
|-
|-
!39
| 31 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 23/246 || Ingredient of ''Amrita Ghrita''
|Cha.Sa.Chi.23/209
|Used in the treatment of vrushchika visha.
|-
|-
!40
| 32 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/57 || Formulation drug used in the treatment of Kaphaja dysuria (''Kaphaja Mutrakruccha'')
|Cha.Sa.Chi.23/216
|Used in the treatment of Gruhagodha visha.
|-
|-
!41
| 33 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/154 || Formulation drug used in Kaphaja coryza and chronic rhinitis (''Dushta Pratishyaya'')
|Cha.Sa.Chi.23/246
|As an ingredient of Amruta ghrita.
|-
|-
!42
| 34 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/186 || Formulation drug in Kaphaja, Sannipatika, and parasite-induced head disorders (''Shiroroga'')
|Cha.sa.Chi.26/57
|Used in Kaphaja mutrakruchhra.
|-
|-
!43
| 35 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 27/34 || Used as a formulation drug (''Yoga Dravya'')
|Cha.sa.Chi.26/154
|As an ingredient of  Bhargyadi taila.
|-
|-
!44
| 36 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 27/49 || Used as an external application (''Lepa'')
|Cha.sa.Chi.26/184
|Used in Kaphaja Siroroga  for Pradhamana nasya.
|-
|-
!45
| 37 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 27/57 || Used as an external application (''Lepa'')
|Cha.sa.Chi.26/186
|Used in Kaphaja Siroroga  for Avapeeda nasya.
|-
|-
!46
| 38 || Cha.Sa.[[Kalpa Sthana]] 11/11 || Classified as a purgative / therapeutic evacuation drug (''Virechana Dravya'')
|Ca.Sa.Chi.27/33
|As an ingredient of Shargenshtadi  Choorna
|-
!47
|Ca.Sa.Chi.27/49
|As an ingredient  of Valmikmrutadi Utsadana
|-
!48
|Ca.Sa.Chi.27/57
|As an ingredient  of Shyonakadi parisheka and Pralepa
|-
|-
| 39 || [[Charaka Samhita]] [[Kalpa Sthana]] 11/14 || Ingredient of medicated ghee (''Ghrita'') preparation
|}
|}


== Ayurvedic pharmacological properties ==  
== Therapeutic Uses ==
Karanja is clinically indicated for:<ref name="API" />
* ''Vrana'' (Wounds, ulcers, and non-healing lesions)
* ''Krumi'' (Helminthiasis, worm infestations, and microbes)
* ''Kushtha'' (Dermatological conditions, leprosy, and stubborn skin diseases)
 
== Dosage & Administration ==
* '''Powder (''Churna''):''' 0.25 g of the drug powder.<ref name="API" />
* '''Decoction (''Kwatha''):''' 5 &ndash; 10 g of the crude drug for preparing decoctions.<ref name="API" />
 
== Important Formulations ==
* ''Aragvadhadi Kwatha Churna''
* ''Pathyadi Lepa''
 
== Habitat & Availability ==
* '''Status:''' Available
* '''Geographical Distribution:''' Distributed throughout India, frequently growing along riverbanks, lakes, streams, and tidal forests.
 
== Current Research ==
 
== Major Phytochemical Profile ==
The therapeutic potential of ''P. pinnata'' is predominantly attributed to its rich content of furanoflavones and polyphenolic compounds:
* '''Furanoflavones:''' Karanjin, pongamol, pongapin, kanjone, and pongaglabrone.
* '''Fixed Oils:''' Oleic acid, linoleic acid, stearic acid, and ricinoleic acid isolated from seed oil.
* '''Flavonoids & Polyphenols:''' Quercetin, kaempferol, and condensed tannins present in the leaves and bark.
 
== Pharmacological Properties & Scientific Evidence ==
 
=== Anti-inflammatory & Analgesic Efficacy ===
* '''Mechanisms:''' Oral or topical administration of ''P. pinnata'' extracts suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines, inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX-2) pathways, and stabilizes lysosomal membranes.
* '''Evidence:''' Aqueous and ethanolic extracts of ''P. pinnata'' stem bark and leaves have demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory activity in acute (carrageenan-induced paw edema) and chronic (cotton pellet granuloma) animal models.<ref name="Srinivasan2001">Srinivasan K, Muruganandan S, Lal J, Chandra S, Tandan SK, Prakash VR (2001). "Evaluation of anti-inflammatory activity of Pongamia pinnata leaves in rats". ''Journal of Ethnopharmacology''. '''78''' (2–3): 151–157. doi:10.1016/S0378-8741(01)00335-3.</ref> Notably, stem bark extracts demonstrate anti-inflammatory effects without producing gastric mucosal lesions or ulceration typical of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).<ref name="Smitha2010">Smitha GN, et al. (2010). "Anti-inflammatory activity of Pongamia Pinnata stem bark in rats". ''Journal of Pharmacy Research''. '''3''' (4): 818–820.</ref>
 
=== Antimicrobial & Antifungal Activity ===
* '''Mechanisms:''' Active principles such as karanjin and pongamol disrupt microbial cell membrane integrity and inhibit bacterial cell invasion.
* '''Evidence:''' Crude extracts and seed oil display broad-spectrum activity against pathogens including ''Staphylococcus aureus'', ''Pseudomonas aeruginosa'', and ''Escherichia coli''.<ref name="Bajpai2009">Bajpai VK, et al. (2009). "Antibacterial activity of Pongamia pinnata extracts against pathogenic microorganisms". ''Journal of Applied Biomedicine''. '''7''': 201–208.</ref> Seed oil formulations have proven effective against dermatophytes (such as ''Trichophyton rubrum'') and ''Candida albicans'', validating traditional applications in managing scabies and eczema. Leaf decoctions also exhibit selective antidiarrheal action by inhibiting cholera toxin production and protecting epithelial cells against invasion.<ref name="Brijesh2006">Brijesh S, Daswani P, Tetali P, Antarkar RV, Birdi TJ (2006). "Studies on Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierre leaves: understanding the mechanism(s) of action in infectious diarrhoea". ''Journal of Zhejiang University Science B''. '''7''' (8): 665–674. doi:10.1631/jzus.2006.B0665.</ref>
 
=== Antidiabetic & Metabolic Regulation ===
* '''Mechanisms:''' Enhances peripheral glucose utilization, inhibits $\alpha$-glucosidase and $\alpha$-amylase enzymes, and decreases lipid peroxidation in pancreatic islet cells.
* '''Evidence:''' Administration of ethanolic leaf and flower extracts produces significant antihyperglycemic effects in diabetic models, restoring plasma glucose levels and tissue antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT) comparable to standard glibenclamide treatment.<ref name="Punitha2006">Punitha R, Manoharan S (2006). "Antihyperglycemic and antilipidperoxidative effects of Pongamia pinnata (Linn.) Pierre flowers in alloxan induced diabetic rats". ''Journal of Ethnopharmacology''. '''105''' (1–2): 39–46. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2005.09.043.</ref><ref name="Sikarwar2010">Sikarwar MS, Patil MB (2010). "Antidiabetic activity of Pongamia pinnata leaf extracts in alloxan-induced diabetic rats". ''International Journal of Ayurveda Research''. '''1''' (4): 199–204. doi:10.4103/0974-7788.76780.</ref>


{| class="wikitable"
=== Antioxidant & Cytoprotective Properties ===
|+ Properties
* '''Mechanisms:''' Direct free radical scavenging (DPPH, superoxide, ABTS) mediated by high polyphenolic concentrations.
* '''Evidence:''' Leaf and root extracts exhibit strong free radical scavenging capacity, marked by reduced concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA)—a key marker of oxidative stress and tissue damage.
 
=== Wound Healing Efficacy ===
* '''Evidence:''' Topically applied seed oil and leaf pastes accelerate wound retraction and epithelialization in excision wound models by facilitating collagen synthesis and minimizing secondary dermal bacterial infections.
 
== Safety Profile & Toxicity ==
* '''Acute Toxicity:''' Stem bark and aqueous leaf extracts exhibit a high margin of safety, showing no acute toxicity or mortality at oral doses up to 8,000 mg/kg in rodent toxicity screens.<ref name="Srinivasan2001" /><ref name="Smitha2010" />
* '''Precautions:''' Unrefined seed oil contains bitter furanoflavones (principally karanjin) that can induce gastrointestinal irritation if ingested without standard processing or purification.
 
== Summary Table of Therapeutic Indications ==
 
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|+ Summary of Therapeutic Efficacy
|-
|-
! Sr.no. !! Pharmacological criteria !! Properties
! Target Indication !! Active Plant Part !! Experimental / Clinical Focus !! Primary References
|-
|-
| 1 || Taste ([[rasa]]) || Bitter (tikta), Pungent (katu), Astringent (kashaya)
| Inflammatory Conditions || Stem Bark / Leaves || Paw edema, granuloma models (non-ulcerogenic) || Srinivasan et al., 2001;<ref name="Srinivasan2001" /> Smitha et al., 2010<ref name="Smitha2010" />
|-
|-
| 2 || Potency ([[veerya]]) ||Hot (ushna)
| Dermal & Fungal Infections || Seed Oil / Seeds || ''S. aureus'', ''C. albicans'', Dermatophytes || Bajpai et al., 2009<ref name="Bajpai2009" />
|-
|-
| 3 || Post digestion effect ([[vipaka]]) || Pungent (katu)
| Enteric Pathogens & Diarrhea || Leaf Extract || Inhibition of cholera toxin production & invasion || Brijesh et al., 2006<ref name="Brijesh2006" />
|-
| 4 || Qualities ([[guna]])|| Light (laghu), Sharp (tikshna)
|-
| 5 || Actions ([[karma]]) || Pacify Kapha and Vata
|-
|-
| Hyperglycemia & Diabetes || Flowers / Leaves || OGTT, Alloxan-induced diabetes models || Punitha & Manoharan, 2006;<ref name="Punitha2006" /> Sikarwar & Patil, 2010<ref name="Sikarwar2010" />
|}
|}


== Current availability==
== External links ==
 
Available
 
== Current researches ==


[[Category: Database of herbs and minerals | Herbs]]
* Phytochemical profile & research database: [https://cb.imsc.res.in/imppat/phytochemical/Pongamia%20pinnata IMPPAT Phytochemical Profile: Pongamia pinnata]


This article is under development ..
== References ==
<references />

Latest revision as of 05:19, 23 September 2026


Karanja (Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierre)

Karanja
Section/Chapter Herb database/Manjishtha
Botanical name(s) Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierre (Synonyms: Millettia pinnata (L.) Panigrahi, Pongamia glabra Vent.
Family Fabaceae (Papilionaceae)
Availability Available
Contributors Team Dravyaguna
Year of publication 2026
Publisher Charak Samhita Research, Training and Skill Development Centre
DOI 10.47468/CSNE.2026.e01.s10.29
Karanja (Pongamia pinnata)

Karanja (Latin: Pongamia pinnata Pierre, English: Indian beech) is a medium-sized deciduous or evergreen tree belonging to the family Fabaceae (traditionally Papilionaceae). In Ayurveda, it is celebrated for its potent anthelmintic (Krumighna), wound-cleansing and healing (Vrana Shodhana), and dermatological (Kushthaghna) properties.[1]

Synonyms in Classical Texts

  • Synonyms in Bhavaprakash Nighantu:[2]
    • Karanja – The flowers of Karanja are curved/shaped like nails.
    • Naktamala – The flowers bloom/blossom during the night.
    • Chirabilvaka
  • Plant Parts Used: Seeds, seed oil, leaves, stem bark, flowers, and roots.

Varieties

Classical texts recognize several varieties of Karanja:

According to Bhavaprakash Nighantu

  1. Ghrita Karanja
  2. Kantakari Karanja
  3. Karanji

According to Raja Nighantu

  1. Karanja
  2. Ghrita Karanja
  3. Mahakaranja
  4. Putikaranja
  5. Guccha Karanja
  6. Ritha Karanja[3]

Ayurvedic Pharmacological Properties

According to Ayurvedic pharmacodynamics, the properties (Rasa Panchaka) of Karanja are summarized below:[1]

Sr. No. Pharmacological Criteria Properties (Ayurvedic Attributes)
1 Taste (Rasa) Pungent (Katu), Bitter (Tikta)
2 Potency (Veerya) Hot (Ushna)
3 Post-digestion Effect (Vipaka) Pungent (Katu)
4 Qualities (Guna) Sharp (Tikshna)
5 Actions (Karma) Krumijit (anthelmintic / antiparasitic), Kushthaghna (cures skin diseases), Kaphavatahara (pacifies Kapha and Vata doshas), Vrana Shodhana (cleanses and purifies wounds/ulcers)

References in Charaka Samhita

Karanja is extensively mentioned in the Charaka Samhita across various clinical contexts and formulations:

Sr. No. Reference in Charaka Samhita Activity / Formulation / Indication
1 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 3/3 Formulations used for local external application
2 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 3/13 Rasanjanadi formulation
3 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 3/14 Haridradi formulation
4 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 3/15 Manahshiladi formulation
5 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 5/73 Used as a tooth-cleaning twig (toothbrush / Dantadhavana)
6 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 13/10 Classification as vegetable/plant sources of lipids (Sneha Dravya)
7 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 14/31 Ingredient of decoction used for steam fomentation (Nadi Sweda)
8 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 14/43 Ingredient of decoction used for steam fomentation (Nadi Sweda)
9 Cha.Sa.Nidana Sthana 2/4 Mentioned in context as an etiological factor in bleeding disorders (Raktapitta)
10 Cha.Sa.Vimana Sthana 7/17 Used in the management and treatment of parasitic infestations (Krumi Roga)
11 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/48 Ingredient of therapeutic formulations used in skin diseases (Kushtha)
12 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/56 Ingredient of formulations used in the treatment of skin diseases (Kushtha)
13 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/91 Ingredient of Siddharthaka Snana (medicated bath) for dermatoses
14 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/93 Used as an external application (Lepa)
15 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/94 Used as an external application (Lepa)
16 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/111 Ingredient of Kanakaksheeri Tailam
17 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/119 Formulation drug (Yoga Dravya) used in skin diseases (Kushtha)
18 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/152 Ingredient of Maha Khadira Ghrita
19 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/158 Formulation drug used in parasitic / infective dermatoses (Krumi Kushtha)
20 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 10/44 Used in nasal errhines / errhine therapy (Nasya)
21 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/67 Ingredient of medicated water used for therapeutic baths
22 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 14/57 Formulation drug used for external therapeutic application
23 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 14/101 Formulation drug in the treatment of hemorrhoids associated with constipation
24 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/179 Ingredient in alkaline preparations (Kshara Kalpana)
25 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 21/137 Formulation drug used in the treatment of cystic erysipelas (Granthi Visarpa)
26 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 23/69 Formulation drug utilized for nasal administration (Nasya)
27 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 23/70 Ingredient of Gandhahasti Agada
28 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 23/79 Ingredient of Mahagandhahastinama Agada
29 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 23/209 Formulation drug used in scorpion bite poisoning
30 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 23/216 Formulation drug used in the treatment of house lizard venom poisoning
31 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 23/246 Ingredient of Amrita Ghrita
32 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/57 Formulation drug used in the treatment of Kaphaja dysuria (Kaphaja Mutrakruccha)
33 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/154 Formulation drug used in Kaphaja coryza and chronic rhinitis (Dushta Pratishyaya)
34 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/186 Formulation drug in Kaphaja, Sannipatika, and parasite-induced head disorders (Shiroroga)
35 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 27/34 Used as a formulation drug (Yoga Dravya)
36 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 27/49 Used as an external application (Lepa)
37 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 27/57 Used as an external application (Lepa)
38 Cha.Sa.Kalpa Sthana 11/11 Classified as a purgative / therapeutic evacuation drug (Virechana Dravya)
39 Charaka Samhita Kalpa Sthana 11/14 Ingredient of medicated ghee (Ghrita) preparation

Therapeutic Uses

Karanja is clinically indicated for:[1]

  • Vrana (Wounds, ulcers, and non-healing lesions)
  • Krumi (Helminthiasis, worm infestations, and microbes)
  • Kushtha (Dermatological conditions, leprosy, and stubborn skin diseases)

Dosage & Administration

  • Powder (Churna): 0.25 g of the drug powder.[1]
  • Decoction (Kwatha): 5 – 10 g of the crude drug for preparing decoctions.[1]

Important Formulations

  • Aragvadhadi Kwatha Churna
  • Pathyadi Lepa

Habitat & Availability

  • Status: Available
  • Geographical Distribution: Distributed throughout India, frequently growing along riverbanks, lakes, streams, and tidal forests.

Current Research

Major Phytochemical Profile

The therapeutic potential of P. pinnata is predominantly attributed to its rich content of furanoflavones and polyphenolic compounds:

  • Furanoflavones: Karanjin, pongamol, pongapin, kanjone, and pongaglabrone.
  • Fixed Oils: Oleic acid, linoleic acid, stearic acid, and ricinoleic acid isolated from seed oil.
  • Flavonoids & Polyphenols: Quercetin, kaempferol, and condensed tannins present in the leaves and bark.

Pharmacological Properties & Scientific Evidence

Anti-inflammatory & Analgesic Efficacy

  • Mechanisms: Oral or topical administration of P. pinnata extracts suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines, inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX-2) pathways, and stabilizes lysosomal membranes.
  • Evidence: Aqueous and ethanolic extracts of P. pinnata stem bark and leaves have demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory activity in acute (carrageenan-induced paw edema) and chronic (cotton pellet granuloma) animal models.[4] Notably, stem bark extracts demonstrate anti-inflammatory effects without producing gastric mucosal lesions or ulceration typical of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).[5]

Antimicrobial & Antifungal Activity

  • Mechanisms: Active principles such as karanjin and pongamol disrupt microbial cell membrane integrity and inhibit bacterial cell invasion.
  • Evidence: Crude extracts and seed oil display broad-spectrum activity against pathogens including Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli.[6] Seed oil formulations have proven effective against dermatophytes (such as Trichophyton rubrum) and Candida albicans, validating traditional applications in managing scabies and eczema. Leaf decoctions also exhibit selective antidiarrheal action by inhibiting cholera toxin production and protecting epithelial cells against invasion.[7]

Antidiabetic & Metabolic Regulation

  • Mechanisms: Enhances peripheral glucose utilization, inhibits $\alpha$-glucosidase and $\alpha$-amylase enzymes, and decreases lipid peroxidation in pancreatic islet cells.
  • Evidence: Administration of ethanolic leaf and flower extracts produces significant antihyperglycemic effects in diabetic models, restoring plasma glucose levels and tissue antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT) comparable to standard glibenclamide treatment.[8][9]

Antioxidant & Cytoprotective Properties

  • Mechanisms: Direct free radical scavenging (DPPH, superoxide, ABTS) mediated by high polyphenolic concentrations.
  • Evidence: Leaf and root extracts exhibit strong free radical scavenging capacity, marked by reduced concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA)—a key marker of oxidative stress and tissue damage.

Wound Healing Efficacy

  • Evidence: Topically applied seed oil and leaf pastes accelerate wound retraction and epithelialization in excision wound models by facilitating collagen synthesis and minimizing secondary dermal bacterial infections.

Safety Profile & Toxicity

  • Acute Toxicity: Stem bark and aqueous leaf extracts exhibit a high margin of safety, showing no acute toxicity or mortality at oral doses up to 8,000 mg/kg in rodent toxicity screens.[4][5]
  • Precautions: Unrefined seed oil contains bitter furanoflavones (principally karanjin) that can induce gastrointestinal irritation if ingested without standard processing or purification.

Summary Table of Therapeutic Indications

Summary of Therapeutic Efficacy
Target Indication Active Plant Part Experimental / Clinical Focus Primary References
Inflammatory Conditions Stem Bark / Leaves Paw edema, granuloma models (non-ulcerogenic) Srinivasan et al., 2001;[4] Smitha et al., 2010[5]
Dermal & Fungal Infections Seed Oil / Seeds S. aureus, C. albicans, Dermatophytes Bajpai et al., 2009[6]
Enteric Pathogens & Diarrhea Leaf Extract Inhibition of cholera toxin production & invasion Brijesh et al., 2006[7]
Hyperglycemia & Diabetes Flowers / Leaves OGTT, Alloxan-induced diabetes models Punitha & Manoharan, 2006;[8] Sikarwar & Patil, 2010[9]

External links

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume 1: 40.
  2. ↑ Prof. Krushnachandra Chunekar, Bhavaprakash Nighantu. Reprint Edition 2020, Chaukhambha Bharati Academy, Guduchyadi varga, verse no. 119–120.
  3. ↑ Dr. Indradev Tripathi, Raja Nighantu of Pandit Narhari. Edition 2006, Chaukhambha Krishnadas Academy, Varanasi, Prabhadradi varga, verse no. 62, 64, 67, 68, 70, 72.
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 Srinivasan K, Muruganandan S, Lal J, Chandra S, Tandan SK, Prakash VR (2001). "Evaluation of anti-inflammatory activity of Pongamia pinnata leaves in rats". Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 78 (2–3): 151–157. doi:10.1016/S0378-8741(01)00335-3.
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 Smitha GN, et al. (2010). "Anti-inflammatory activity of Pongamia Pinnata stem bark in rats". Journal of Pharmacy Research. 3 (4): 818–820.
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 Bajpai VK, et al. (2009). "Antibacterial activity of Pongamia pinnata extracts against pathogenic microorganisms". Journal of Applied Biomedicine. 7: 201–208.
  7. ↑ 7.0 7.1 Brijesh S, Daswani P, Tetali P, Antarkar RV, Birdi TJ (2006). "Studies on Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierre leaves: understanding the mechanism(s) of action in infectious diarrhoea". Journal of Zhejiang University Science B. 7 (8): 665–674. doi:10.1631/jzus.2006.B0665.
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 Punitha R, Manoharan S (2006). "Antihyperglycemic and antilipidperoxidative effects of Pongamia pinnata (Linn.) Pierre flowers in alloxan induced diabetic rats". Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 105 (1–2): 39–46. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2005.09.043.
  9. ↑ 9.0 9.1 Sikarwar MS, Patil MB (2010). "Antidiabetic activity of Pongamia pinnata leaf extracts in alloxan-induced diabetic rats". International Journal of Ayurveda Research. 1 (4): 199–204. doi:10.4103/0974-7788.76780.
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