THERAPEUTIC IMPORTANCE OF PASHANABHEDA IN CLASSICAL AND CONTEMPORARY MEDICINE- A REVIEW

Abstract

The Pashanabheda Bergenia ciliata [Haw].Sternb. is an evergreen perennial herb belonging to the family Saxifragaceae. The rhizome of “Pashanabheda” [stone breaker] is attained from B.ciliata [ Haw].sternb. Its root, rhizome and also whole plant parts are used as a medicine. Rhizome and roots contain a C-glycoside called Bergenin, Beta-sitosterol, gallic acid, leucine and threonine. There are three species of genus Bergenia in India which are known by the names of B.ciliata, B.lingulata and B.stracheyi.Since it imparts different properties i.e. diuretic, anti-inflammatory, astringent, cardiotonic, wound healer and hepatoprotective activity.The main chemical constituent of Bergenia ciliata is Bergenin. The present study is revealing the multiple uses of the Pashanabheda and therefore their conservation is necessary.