ASHOKA(SARACA INDICA), A PLANT FOR WOMEN HEALTH- AN OVERVIEW

Abstract

The medicinal plants are useful for preventing as well as curing of human diseases, because of the presence of phytochemical constituents. Each and every part of the herbs is fully utilized for the different pharmacological action they may produce and made into a range of herbal preparations. The Balabilvashunti decoction is an herbal preparation consists of three ingredients of Rhizome of Zingiber officinale and roots of Sida alnifolia and Aegle marmelos. The aim of this study was to analyze the presence or absence of different phytochemicals in the Balabilvashunti decoction. The decoction was prepared as per the method mentioned in Sharangadhara Samhitha and obtains the extracts. The extract was subjected to qualitative phytochemical screening using standard procedures. The results revealed the presence of Alkaloids, Flavonoids, Saponins, Tanins and Phenolic Compounds, Terpenoids and Steroids in Balabilvashunti decoction. The presence of various metabolites was believed to exhibit the Anti-inflammatory action, Neuro protective nature (Anti-cholinesterase and Anti-oxidative), Anti hyperglycemic effect, Pain killers, Anti-spasmodic and confirmed their antimicrobial efficacy against selected pathogens etc. The results confirmed that Balabilvashunti decoction is a rich source of valuable primary and secondary metabolites which make it one of the most valuable herbal preparations in management of various diseases as mentioned in authentic Ayurveda texts.