MILK THISTLE: A Western Herbal for Liver Ailments

NIRGUNDI: A Wholesome Plant

 For thousands of years, we have been using plants for curing different ailments and protection from diseases. Many of those medicinal plants have become an integral part of the culture and folklore with time. Himalayas have been blessed with hundreds of plant species with medicinal value. Many lyrical proverbs on the significance of plants can be heard in our villages. One of the famous proverbs about plants in Himachal Pradesh is:

Jithee Banah, Basuti, varya                              जिथी बना, बसूटी, वरया,
Uthee Aadmi Bemaut Kadi Ni Marya                  ऊथी आदमी बेमौत कदी नी मरया

(Meaning: Where the chaste tree (Vitex negundo; Nirgundi), Malabar nut (Justicia adhatoda; Adusa, Vasaka), and sweet flag (Acorus calamus; Vach) occur, no one can die of diseases).

I am introducing the readers to the first plant of this proverb, i.e., the Nirgundi. The medicinal value of this plant can be judged even from its Sanskrit-Hindi name ‘Nirgundi’, which itself literally means “protects the body from diseases”. Scientifically known as Vitex negundo, nirgundi belongs to the Verbena family (Verbenaceae) of flowering plants. It is extensively used in local healing traditions and Ayurveda.

 

NAMES IN INDIA

English: Chaste tree, Chinese chaste tree, Indian privet Hindi: Samhalu, Saubhalu, Nirgandi Sanskrit: Nirgundi, Nirgunda, Nirgundika, Nisinda, Nilika, Nilapushpi, Indrani, Indranika, Renuka, Sinduka, Sindhuvara, Sindhuvaram, Sinduya, Shephali, Sugandhika, Surasa, Shveta Sephalika, Suvaha Punjabi: Bana Assamese: Pasutia, Aggla-Chita, Pochatia, Aslok Bengali: Nisinda, Samalu, Nirgundi, Sinduari, Beguna, Nishinda, Nishinde Gujarati: Nagoda, Nagaol, Nirgari Kannada: Bile-Nekki Malayalam: Indrani Siddha: Noohi Tamil: Nirkunnchi, Nallanochi Telugu: Nallavalli, Vavilli, Tellavavilli Urdu: Sambhalu, Panjangusht (Source: Ahuja, SC, Ahuja, S. and Ahuja, U. (2015): Nirgundi (Vitex negundo): Nature’s Gift to Mankind. Asian Agri-History 19(1): 5–32.

DISTRIBUTION

India, Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, Afghanistan, Mongolia, Iran, Japan, Korea, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Tanzania, Thailand and Vietnam.

MORPHOLOGY

Nirgundi is a medium-sized shrub growing to a height of up to 5 meters. Leaves are 3-5-foliolate with the upper side light green and the lower side slightly greyish white in colour. The leaflets are lanceolate or ovate with leaflet base cuneate, margin entire or with 1-3 teeth along the apical region. The central leaflet is 4-13 × 1-4 cm in size. Flowers are mauve to light blue in colour and are borne on a 10-25 cm long inflorescences axis. Flowering occurs during April-June. 

CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS

Flowering twigs contain volatile oils (viridiflorol, p-caryophylene, 4-terpineol, linalool, globulol, elemol, farnesene and aromadendrene), alkaloids (nishindine), lignans, flavonoids, iridoids, terpenes (triterpenes, diterpenes, sesquiterpenes), and steroids.  

MEDICINAL USES

 1. Remedy for Joint Pain

The bark and leaf paste when applied as a poultice on joints and sprained areas, provides relief from pain, spasms and inflammation caused by arthritis and sprains. Leaf powder can also be taken orally in doses of 2-3 g twice a day for these conditions. This property of nirgundi is due to the presence of an alkaloid nishindine.

2. Prevents Premature Greying of Hair

Nirgundi oil prevents premature greying of hair when applied on scalp.

3. Allays Chest Congestion

Nirgundi oil when applied to the nose, neck and chest, allays nose and chest congestion in those suffering from asthma. 1-2 gram powder when taken orally with lukewarm water, it eases the asthma symptoms and decongests the chest. Nirgundi leaves are boiled in water and the vapors are inhaled to get relief from respiratory diseases and chest congestion.

4. Anti-Allergic Property

Nirgundi leaves have anti-histamine and anti-allergic properties. Leaf powder is effective in managing bronchitis and breathing difficulties associated with nasal and bronchial allergies.

5. Relief from Menstrual Cramps

The nirgundi fruits help in easing the discomfort associated with menstrual cramps and uterine fibroids due to the presence of terpenoids. It reduces the breast tenderness associated with premenstrual syndrome.

6. Relieves Anxiety

Nirgundi fruits are reported to uplift mood and reduce the symptoms of anxiety, depression and insomnia.

7. Anti-Pyretic Property

Boiled leaf and root extract of nirgundi is reported to control high fever when taken orally.

8. Anti-Microbial Activity

Studies have reported that nirgundi plants are effective in combating bacterial and fungal infections.

9. Remedies Epilepsy Symptoms

Nirgundi is also considered to be useful in managing epileptic seizures and convulsions. 

10. Controls Diarrhoea

Dried fruit powder when taken orally with honey, it controls diarrhoea.

11. Good for Oral Health

Country toothbrushes made up of nirgundi stems help in maintaining oral health due to its anti-microbial properties. It is also useful in treating bleeding gums. Leaf decoction can also be used as gargling for curing sore throat.

12. Useful in Earache

Nirgundi leaves when boiled in oil and 2-3 drops of this oil put in ear, it relieves earache. 

13. Healing of Wounds

The leaf decoction of nirgundi is used for washing wounds and for their quick healing.

14. Anti-Fertility Property

The leaves and seeds of nirgundi have been reported to have anti-androgenic activity. 

15. Natural Laxative

Consumption of nirgundi leaves promotes regular bowel movement and is a natural laxative.

16. Cardioprotective Activity

Studies on animal models have shown that nirgundi is a potential protective and therapeutic agent against cardiovascular diseases and related pathologies such as inflammation, oxidative stress, atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction. 

17. Anthelmintic Property

The powdered root of nirgundi can help in expelling parasitic worms from the body.

18. Good for the Liver

Nirgundi is reported to reduce the serum levels of liver enzymes, such as aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase and improve liver function and health.

19. Relief from Headache 

Nirgundi leaves are crushed to make a paste. This paste is applied on the forehead to alleviate headaches.

NIRGUNDI IN SACRED TRADITIONS

The nirgundi plant is believed to have originated from the abdomen of Lord Ganesha in Hindu mythology. Its leaves are offered as a symbol of devotion to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati during Somavara Vrata.

CAUTION

Some people may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort, such as stomach upset or diarrhoea, when using nirgundi in large doses. Women with hormone-sensitive conditions, such as breast cancer or endometriosis, are advised to consult a registered medical practitioner before using nirgundi. It may interact with medications such as anticoagulants (blood thinners), antiplatelet drugs, and anti-diabetic drugs. 

RELATED SPECIES

Lilac chaste tree, Agnus Castus or Monk's Pepper (Vitex agnus-castus)

Monk's Pepper (Vitex agnus-castus)

ROSEMARY: CURES WITH ITS AROMA

 

Rosemary plant in flowering

Aroma, with its ethereal allure, has captivated humanity ever since the evolution of human beings. It is and was a part of rituals and traditions in many cultures of the world. Not an enticing attraction just human beings, it is equally enchanting in the animal world as well. The world of aroma is highly diverse. Many plant species and animals produce aromatic or fragrant molecules through biological pathways operating inside them. One such plant, a source of highly aromatic essential oil, is rosemary. Shakespeare mentions the use of rosemary for remembrance in Hamlet, that's why it is also known as a ‘herb of remembrance’. There are a wide variety of uses for rosemary essential oil, ranging from aromatherapy to cooking and more. Rosemary, botanically known as Salvia rosmarinus (synonym Rosmarinus officinalis), belongs to the plant family Lamiaceae.

 

DISTRIBUTION

Rosemary is native to the Mediterranean region (Albania, Algeria, Baleares, Corse, Cyprus, East Aegean Island, Egypt, France, Greece, Italy, Libya, Morocco, Portugal, Sardegna, Sicilia, Spain, Tunisia, Turkey, Yugoslavia). However, it is cultivated throughout the world for the extraction of essential oils.

 

Rosemary bush

MORPHOLOGY

Rosemary is a highly aromatic, hardy, and evergreen shrub that can live for up to 35 years.  It can grow to a height of up to 1.5 m. The leaves are evergreen, needle-shaped, 2–4 cm × 2–5 mm in size, green above, and whitish below due to the presence of dense, short, and woolly hair. Generally, flowering occurs in spring and summer in temperate areas, but the plants can be in constant bloom in relatively warm climates. My plants, cultivated in pots, start flowering in October and continue till February in Shimla. The flowers are purple, white, pink, or even deep blue.

 

Rosemary flowers

 

CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS

The major chemical constituents in the leaves and flower tops are 1,8-Cineole, α-Pinene, and borneol, which account for nearly 50% of all the constituents. Other minor constituents reported from this plant are camphene, limonene, and triterpene alcohols such as β-sitosterol.

 

USES

I. CULINARY USES

Rosemary is a versatile herb that finds uses in many culinary cultures of the world. It is used to give a delightful flavour and aroma to a wide range of culinary dishes such as soups, baked products, potatoes, meats, vegetables, marinades, sauces, and drinks.

II. IN PERFUMERY

Rosemary oil is considered a versatile ingredient in perfumery. It is used in perfumes, soaps, deodorants, talcum powders, incense sticks, etc.

III. AS AN ORNAMENTAL PLANT

Rosemary plants are grown in the western gardens as decorative and fragrant elements.

IV. MAGICAL USES

Rosemary leaves are burned to purify the area to get rid of negativity in Western magical traditions. Rosemary ensures good sleep and is supposed to drive away nightmares when placed beneath the pillow. Rosemary is burned on charcoal and the smoke is smelled to get knowledge and answers to a question. Scott Cunningham mentions that before collecting an herb for a specific magical purpose, the role of that plant in fulfilling  a specific need should be mentioned before that plant like this:

I gather you, rosemary, herb of the Sun, 

to increase my mental powers and concentration.

V. MEDICINAL USES

1. Aromatherapy

Rosemary oil is widely used in aromatherapy due to its invigorating aroma and therapeutic benefits. It is reported to alleviate fatigue and stress, soothe nerves, and enhance mood. 

Rosemary essential oil (Photo source: essanciaonline.com)

2. Immune Support
Rosemary is reported to have immune-boosting properties.  It helps in strengthening the body's natural defence mechanism.
3. Anti-Microbial Properties
Rosemary oil has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. It is commonly used for wound healing in traditional Western medicine.
4. Good for Digestive Health
Rosemary leaves have been traditionally used to aid in digestion and soothe the gastrointestinal tract in the Mediterranean region for ages. It stimulates the production of digestive juices, reduces gas and bloating, and alleviates symptoms of indigestion.
5. Anti-inflammatory Properties
The essential oils found in rosemary have anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to reduce inflammation in the body. It can also be used topically to relieve joint pain associated with arthritis and rheumatism.
6. Soothes Nerves
Rosemary oil is believed to soothe the nerves and help in improving memory, concentration, and mental clarity.
7. Good for Respiratory Health
Inhalation of rosemary essential oils helps in alleviating nasal blockage, sinusitis, lung congestion, and coughing and therefore helps in easy breathing.
8. Promotes Hair Growth
Rosemary oil improves blood circulation to the scalp, strengthens hair follicles, and prevents dandruff and hair loss. It is commonly used in hair care products such as hair oils and shampoos.
 

 

 REFERENCES

Cunningham, S. 2008. Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs. Llewellyn Publications, Woodbury, Minnesota.

Daniel, M. 2013. Useful Herbs of Planet Earth. Scientific Publisher, Jodhpur.

Kunkele, U and Lohmeyer, T.R. 2010. Herbs for Healthy Living: Recognition, Use and Effect. Paragon Publishing Pvt. Ltd., Noida.

Lucas, J. 2021. Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine. Herbs for Health and Healing.

LAVENDER: A BLEND OF BEAUTY & BENEFITS

 

Lavender flowers

Lavender or English Lavender, botanically known as Lavandula angustifolia (previously Lavandula officinalis), is an evergreen perennial plant belonging to the family Lamiaceae of flowering plants. It is native to the mountainous area of Mediterranean region where it grows on sunny slopes. It is cultivated throughout the world in cooler regions as an ornamental plant for its pinkish-purple-coloured beautiful flowers or for the distillation of economically important essential oils that are used in perfumery and medicine.

A lavender feild in Bhaderwah in J&K

MORPHOLOGY

Lavender is an evergreen, sweetly aromatic and herbaceous perennial with a semi-woody growth habit. It can grow to a height of up to 1 metres under favourable conditions of the environment. The leaves measure 2-6 cm in length and 4-6 mm in width. They are light evergreen in colour and covered with whitish bloom. It usually flowers once in a year during the summer season. The flowers, which are pinkish-purple or lavender-coloured, are arranged on 2-8 cm long spikes present on 10–30 cm long leafless stems.

A lavender nursery raised by Sh. Rajat Raina in Bhaderwah in J&K

CHEMICAL COMPOSITION

Lavender is known for the essential oils it contains in abundance (0.8-2%). It contains more than 100 phytochemicals, which contribute to the physicochemical and biological properties of its essential oil. The phytochemical composition of the essential oil is determined by a plant genotype, environmental factors, cultivation practices and post-harvest processing. The major constituents are linalool, linalyl acetate and geraniol. Other constituents such as terpinene-4-ol, lavandulyl acetate, lavandulol, esters of butyric and valeric acids, sesquiterpene, and eucalyptol (1,8-cineol) are present in moderate quantities.

A beautiful landscape of lavender field

USES

1. USE IN PERFUMERY AND TOILETRY

Lavender oil is widely used in perfumes, deo-sprays, creams, room fresheners, talcum powders, shampoos, and soaps.

2. AS AN ORNAMENTAL

Lavender can be cultivated as an ornamental plant in cooler areas for its beautiful pinkish-purple-coloured flowers present in compact spikes.

3. MEDICINAL USES

Dried lavender spikes ready for sale in the market

i. IMPROVES MOOD AND RELIEF IN INSOMNIA

Many scientific studies have shown that lavender’s aroma can improve mood. Aromatherapy (used in steam and inhaled) with essential oils of lavender has shown a positive effect on the quality of sleep as well.

ii. HELPFUL IN ANXIETY

Lavender essential oils have anxiety-alleviating effects on human beings when taken internally in low doses such as in tea or in other forms (infusion) and have the potential to treat depression.

Lavender essential oil (Photo source: essanciaonline.com)

iii. EFFECTIVE IN CONTROLLING HAIR LOSS

The use of lavender oil mixed with a carrier oil (coconut or other oils) is effective in promoting hair growth and controlling dandruff and hair fall. Topical use of lavender oil in alopecia areata was found to be quite effective in different experimental studies.

iv. USEFUL IN HEADACHES AND MIGRAINE

Lavender oil is reported to be useful in controlling headaches or migraine when inhaled or used as aromatherapy.

v. ANTI-MICROBIAL PROPERTIES

Lavender oil has anti-microbial properties. It can be used topically along with jojoba/almond oil for wound healing and curing acne.

vi. FOR TREATING BURNS

Lavender has long been used as a traditional treatment for burns and other skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, itching, etc.

vii. SOFTENS AND MOISTURIZES SKIN

Lavender oil mixed with jojoba/almond oil is an excellent moisturizer that softens the skin. It is reported to remove the age spots and wrinkles on the face. It can also be used as a lip balm.

viii. PROTECTION FROM HARMFUL OXIDIZING AGENTS 

Lavender oil when inhaled can induce the anti-oxidant enzyme system consisting of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase, and catalase. 

Young plants growing in a field in Bhaderwah

(NOTE: All the photographs used in this Blog on Lavender were provided by Sh. Rajat Raina from Bhaderwah in J&K. He can be contacted for guidance on lavender cultivation and for procuring planting material)

AMLA: AN IMPORTANT RASAYANA MEDICINE

Amla fruits

Plants and minerals have been used for medicinal purposes since ages. This use has ancient roots that span across diverse cultures and countries of the world. The origin of plant medicine can be traced back to prehistoric times where it evolved through trial and error and keen observations. The plants that were observed to have more medicinal properties and ecological importance were linked to gods and goddesses by the sages for their sustainable use and conservation. One such important medicinal and sacred plant is Amla or Amlaki. It is variously known as Indian gooseberry, Emblic myrobalan, Malacca tree, or even Amla in English. Botanically known as Phyllanthus emblica (Synonym: Emblica officinalis), it belongs to the plant family Phyllanthaceae.

NAMES IN INDIAN LANGUAGES

Hindi: Amla, Aonla, Anvula, Ambla •Sanskrit: Amalakam, Āmalaki, Amritaphala, Amrtaphalã, Dhãtri, Dhatriphala, Śivam, Sriphalam, Tisyaphalã, Vayasthã •Marathi: Anvala, Avala, Avalkathi •Bengali: Amla, Amlaki, Amritaphala, Dhatri; •Tamil: Amalaki, Amirta-palam, Attakoram, Nellikkai, Perunelli, Toppi, Toppu-nelli •Malayalam: Nelli, Nellikka, Amalakam •Telugu: Usiri, Usirikaya, Amalakama, Nelli-kaya •Kannada: Betta nelli, Amalaka •Oriya: Aonla •Gujarati: Amalak, Ambala •Urdu: Amla •Manipuri: Heikru •Mizo: Sunhlu

DISTRIBUTION

Amla is native to Tropical and Subtropical Asia where it prefers to grow in the wet tropical biomes up to 1400m above the mean sea level. It commonly occurs in most of the states in India, Bangladesh, Borneo, Cambodia, South-Central and Southeast China, Jawa, Laos, Lesser Sunda Island, Malaya, Myanmar, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Sumatera, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam. It has also been introduced in Cuba, Mauritius, Puerto Rico, and Trinidad and Tobago.

A tree laden with amla fruits

MORPHOLOGY

Amla is a small or medium-sized deciduous tree growing to a height of up to 8-18 m tall. The stem has spreading branches and has grey or brownish bark. The leaves are small, simple, stalkless, and arranged on slender branchlets which can be mistaken for pinnately compound leaves with many leaflets. The leaves are distichous with leaf blades oblong or linear-oblong in shape and 8-23 × 1.5-6 mm in size. The male and female flowers are separate, small, greenish-yellow, or pinkish in colour and arranged on the same branch in fascicles. They bloom in the months of April-May. Each flower has six tepals or perianth lobes and has either stamens or carpels. Fruit is a pale green and globose drupe that measures 1-2 cm in diameter and matures in the months of October-November.

Amla flowers

CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS

Amla is rich in tannins (fruit- 28%; leaves- 22%), carbohydrates (approx. 14%; chiefly galactaric acid (4-9%)) and polyphenols (gallic acid (5% ), ethyl gallate, digallic acid, ellagic acid, phyllemblic acid, emblicol, etc.). Tannins are mostly represented by gallotannins (such as biologically active emblicanin-A and -B). Fruits also contain flavonoids (quercetin, rutin, kaempferol in fruit; leucodelphinidin in bark), triterpenoids (lupeol), alkaloids (phyllantidine, phyllantine) and free amino acids (alanine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, lysine, proline, etc.). Prof. Sukh Dev (2006), from the B.R. Ambedkar Centre for Biomedical Research, University of Delhi, reported that there is no free or conjugated ascorbic acid (vitamin C) present in the fruits of amla. The vitamin C-like action (estimation) is due to the presence of emblicanin-A and -B (which have core sugar acid structure similar to that of ascorbic acid) in the fruits. Cooked amla in Chyawanprash has strong anti-oxidant and vitamin C-like activity due to the presence of emblicanin-A and -B, which are highly stable physiologically active compounds. On the other hand, vitamin C is highly unstable and dissociates at high temperature. 

Chemical structure of emblicanin-A

(Image source: Global Substance Registration System (GSRS), NIH)

USES
Amla is one of the most important plants in India. It is used as a food item and medicine on one hand and considered sacred on the other. It also finds use in the tanning industry as well.

I. EDIBLE USES

Amla fruits are edible and can be eaten fresh or cooked as a vegetable. It can also be prepared into chutney, juice, pickle, squash, candies, preserves, jam, etc.

Amla chutney

Fresh amla-mint juice

Amla green tea 

II. SACRED VALUE
Amla is considered a favorite fruit of Lord Krishna. It is believed that all the Gods and Goddesses reside in this tree. A fast is observed and the Amla tree is worshiped on the Navami of Shukla Paksha of Kartik month (known as Amla Navami).

Amla worship (Photograph courtesy: Dr. O.P. Sharma 'Vidyarthi' Ji)

III. MEDICINAL USES

1. Builds Immunity
The various phytochemicals present in amla fruits help in building immunity through the regulation of lymphocyte proliferation and increased production of interleukin-2 and y-interferon.

2. Good for Digestive System
Amla is an integral part of Ayurvedic medicine Triphala (a mixture of emblic myrobalan, beleric myrobalan and chebulic myrobalan) is used for many problems of the digestive system including constipation and irritable bowel syndrome.

3. Antioxidant Properties
Amla is a rich source of antioxidant phytochemicals such as Emblicanin-A and -B. These chemicals prevent free radical generation during stress as well as scavenge them in the human body through enhanced production of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase and catalase. The free radicals can cause many diseases including cancers if not removed from the human body.

Readymade amla juice

4. Improves Hair Health
Amla fruits are an excellent home remedy to prevent hair fall and enhance hair growth by stimulating hair follicles. It also prevents premature greying of hair.

5. Hepatoprotective Property
Antioxidants emblicanin A and -B and quercetin present in amla have been reported to cure alcohol, paracetamol, and carbon tetrachloride-induced liver injury in albino rats.

6. Good for the Management of Diabetes
Amla is reported to be useful in the control of diabetes.

7. Useful in Common Cold
Many phytochemicals present in Amla are helpful in the early curing of the common cold.

8. Improves Eyesight
Many studies have shown that the presence of carotene in amla improves vision. It can reduce the chances of cataract problems and intraocular tension. 

9. Adaptogenic Effect
Regular use of amla has an adaptogenic effect in experimental animals against biological, physical, and chemical stresses.

10. Management of Healthy Weight
Regular use of amla prevents fat synthesis and accumulation in the body.

11. Useful in Dementia
Amla is reported to be useful in treating patients with dementia.

12. Heals Ulcers
Amla extract has been reported to heal gastric ulcers in animal models by reducing offensive factors (acid, pepsin) and increasing the defensive factors (cellular mucus).

13. Cures Pancreatitis
The use of dried fruit powder was found to be effective against experimentally induced pancreatitis in animal models.

14. Reduces Serum Cholesterol
Fresh fruit juice of amla has been reported to reduce serum cholesterol, triglycerides, phospholipids, and LDL (low-density lipoprotein).

15. Anti-Microbial Property
The alcoholic extract of the fruit has antibacterial activity against Bacillus subtilis (causes food poisoning), and Staphylococcus aureus (causes skin diseases).

Amla candy

REFERENCES

• Acharya Balkrishna. 2008. Secrets of Indian Herbs for Good Health. Divya Prakashan, Haridwar.
• Akbar, S. 2020. Handbook of 200 Medicinal Plants: A Comprehensive Review of Their Traditional Medical Uses and Scientific Justifications. Springer Nature, Switzerland.
• Bennet, S.S.R., Gupta, P.C., and Rao, R.V. 1992. Venerated Plants. Indian Council of Forestry Education and Research, Dehradun.
• Chauhan, N.S. 1999. Medicinal and Aromatic Plants of Himachal Pradesh. Indus Publishing Company, New Delhi.
• Daniel, M. 2013. Useful Herbs of Planet Earth. Scientific Publisher, Jodhpur.
• Dev, S. 2006. A Selection of Prime Ayurvedic Plant Drugs: Ancient-Modern Concordance. Anamaya Publisher, New Delhi.
• Krishna, N. and Amrithalingam, M. 2014. Sacred Plants of India. Penguin Books.
• Ravindran, P.N. 2020. Sacred & Ritual Plants of India: Lore, Symbolism, Traditions. Notion Press, Chennai.

Himalayan Firethorn: Keeps Your Heart Healthy

God's treasure contains vastness in the sky, unfathomable depths in water and mysterious gems and diamonds in its nature. The Himalayan firethorn (also known as Nepalese white thorn or Nepalese firethorn) is one such beautiful thorny evergreen hidden shrub in nature's lap. Commonly known as Ghingaru, Gangharu or Chhota Seb in India, it is a rare combination of a plant with natural beauty and value. Botanically known as Pyracantha crenulata (synonym- Crataegus crenulata), it belongs to the rose family (Rosaceae) and is variously used in its native necks of the woods.

DISTRIBUTION

Himalayan firethorn is found naturally in India, Nepal, China, Myanmar, and Bhutan. In India, it is mainly distributed in Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, however, it has been used as an ornamental hedge in many countries of the world. It is commonly found in shrubberies, on open slopes, along stream sides and in grassy places at an altitude ranging from 900 to 2400 metres above the mean sea level.

A branch with leaves and flowers

MORPHOLOGY

Himalayan firethorn is a thorny shrub growing to a height of approximately 5 m. The stem is profusely branched and has thorns distributed all over it. The branches are dark brown in colour when old. Leaves are simple and each leaf is differentiated into a petiole and leaf blade. The petiole is small and glabrous. The leaf blade is dark green in colour, oblong or oblanceolate in shape and 2-7 × 0.8-1.8 cm in size. Both the leaf surfaces are glabrous in texture. The leaf margin is crenulate or sparsely so, the leaf base is broadly cuneate or slightly rounded and the leaf apex is acute or obtuse. White flowers are arranged in dense compound corymbs of 3-5 cm diameter with caducous bracts. Flowers are 6-9 mm in diameter with typical rosaceous architecture and campanulate hypanthium. Sepals are greenish-brown, triangular, 1–1.2 mm in size and abaxially glabrous. Petals are white, orbicular, 4-5 × 3-4 mm in size with rounded apex. Stamens are approximately 20 in number per flower. The ovary is densely white and pubescent apically. Fruit is a nearly globose pome which is green initially but turns red or orangish at maturity. Flowering occurs from March to May and the fruits mature from August to November.

A shrub with ripe pomes (fruits)

CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS

Himalayan firethorn contains β-carotene, β-sitosterol, alkaloids, amino acids, carbohydrate, catechin, chlorogenic acid, cis-3, 4-dioxyethylene-5- methoxycinnamic acid, delphidin, ellagic acid, esculatin, ferrulic acid, flavonoids, gallic acid, glycosides, hydroxybenzoic acid, lanost-54-en-2β, 3β-diol 26-oic acid, lycopene, m-coumeric acid, oligomeric proanthocyanidins, polyphenols, phenyl ethylamine, proteins, pyracrenic acid, quercetin, rutin, sterols, tannins, terpenoid, vitamins, etc. (Bhatta et al., 2021, Kewlani et al., 2023).

Harvested fruits

I. MEDICINAL USES

Himalayan firethorn is found commonly in the Himalayan region, but people really do not know the real worth of this elixir shrub, which has the following medicinal uses:

1. Good for Heart: Fruits of Himalayan firethorn are used as a heart tonic to treat myocardial debility in many traditional systems of medicine in the Himalayas. Defence Agricultural Research Laboratory Haldwani has developed HRIDAYAMRIT: A Herbal Health Beverage using the fruits of this plant. 

Photo source: Defence Agricultural Research Laboratory, Haldwani (DRDO)

2. Relieves Constipation: Fruits of Himalayan firethorn are considered to be useful in curing constipation.

3. Heals the Burns: Leaf paste can be used to heal the burns.

4. Suppresses Formation of Kidney Stones: Fruit juice is reported to suppress stone formation in kidneys in animal models.

5. Anti-Inflammatory Activity: The fruits of Himalayan firethorn are rich sources of flavonoids and anthocyanin which have significant anti-inflammatory activities.

6. Antihypertensive Properties: The fruits of Himalayan firethorn are reported to have antihypertensive activity in animal models.

7. Antimicrobial Activity: The fruit extract of Himalayan firethorn is reported to have anti-microbial activity against Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium, Klebsiella pneumonia, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeriginosa, and Streptococcus pyogenes.

8. Antioxidant Activity: Fruits of Himalayan firethorn contain many phytochemicals which have strong antioxidant activity.

9. Pain Management: Himalayan firethorn is traditionally used for the treatment of joint and body aches in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. A recent experimental study in 2023 (Tiwari et al., 2024) has scientifically proved the analgesic properties of this plant. 

II. CULTIVATION AS AN ORNAMENTAL

Himalayan firethorn plants can be cultivated as ornamental hedging plants as they bear beautiful red- or orange-coloured fruits that persist for 2-3 months on the shrubs. These shrubs can also be trained in several ways to prepare eye-catching structures such as arches, circles, cones, bonsai, etc.

Himalayan firethorn hedge

Photograph courtesy: Dr. Puja Sharma, Dr. Bharati Kashyap and Dr. S.R. Dhiman

Photograph courtesy: Dr. Puja Sharma, Dr. Bharati Kashyap and Dr. S.R. Dhiman

III. EDIBLE USES

The fruits of Himalayan firethorn are edible as the fruits of other Rosaceous plants such as apples, quince, pear, loquat, strawberries, peaches, apricots, raspberries, etc. The birds also relish these fruits. However, care should be taken not to eat the seeds which are mildly toxic. Various value-added products such as jam, chutney, preserves and choco shots have been developed by the Department of Food Science & Technology, Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture & Forestry, Nauni (Solan), Himachal Pradesh using the fruits of this valuable plant. The deseeded fruits can also be mixed in shake and custard. 

Himalayan firethorn jam

(Photograph courtesy: Shlok, Dr. Rakesh Sharma and Dr. Bharati Kashyap)

Himalayan firethorn preserve

(Photograph courtesy: Shlok, Dr. Rakesh Sharma and Dr. Bharati Kashyap)

Apricot and Himalayan firethorn chutney

(Photograph courtesy: Shlok, Dr. Rakesh Sharma and Dr. Bharati Kashyap)

Plum and Himalayan firethorn chutney

(Photograph courtesy: Shlok, Dr. Rakesh Sharma and Dr. Bharati Kashyap)

Choco shots containing Himalayan firethorn

(Photograph courtesy: Shlok, Dr. Rakesh Sharma and Dr. Bharati Kashyap)

Custard containing Himalayan firethorn fruits

TOXICITY

Himalayan firethorn belongs to a family where the leaves and seeds of many members contain small quantities of hydrogen cyanide which imparts a bitter taste to the plant parts. Although hydrogen cyanide stimulates respiration and improves digestion in small quantities, it can cause respiratory failure and even death in high quantities (Plants for a Future, 2023).

REFERENCES

• Bahuguna, Y.M., Rawat, M.S.M., Juyal, V. and Gusain, K. (2009). Evaluation of Pyracantha crenulata Roem for antiurolithogenic activity in albino rats. Afr. J. Urol. 15 (3): 159–166.
• Bhatta, G.D. Kunwar, R.M. and Bussmann, R.W. (2021). Pyracantha crenulata (D. Don) M. Roem. In: Ethnobotany of the Himalayas, Ethnobotany of Mountains. Edited by: Kunwar, R.M. and Bussmann, R.W. Springer Nature Switzerland.
• Kewlani, P., Negi, V.S., Bhatt, I.D. and Rawal, R.S. (2023). Pyracantha crenulata (Roxb. ex D.Don) M.Roem. In: Himalayan Fruits and Berries: Bioactive Compounds, Uses and Nutraceutical Potential. Edited by T. Belwal, I.D. Bhatt, and H.P. Devkota. Academic Press (An imprint of Elsevier), USA.
• Negi, P.S., Singh, R., Dwivedi, S.K. (2018). Evaluation of antihypertensive effect of fruit beverage of Crataegus crenulata Roxb.: A wild shrub of Himalayan hills. Def. Life Sci. J. 3, 146–150.
• Plants For A Future (2023). Pyracantha crenulata - (D.Don.)M.Roem. Accessed on 27th August 2023 at https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Pyracantha+crenulata
• Tewari, D., Bawari, S., Sah, A.N., Sharma, H., Joshi, B.C., Gupta, P. and Sharma, V.K. (2024). Himalayan Pyracantha crenulata (D.Don) M.Roem. leaf and fruit extracts alleviate algesia through COX-2 and Mu-opioid receptor mediated pathways. J. Ethnopharmacology 318 (Part B): https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2023.117004