EVALUATION OF MEDOHARA (HYPOLIPIDAEMIC)
EFFECT OF CHITRAKA (PLUMBAGO ZEYLANICA LINN.)
– AN EXPERIMENTAL STUDY
By:
MUKTAYAKKA ARALI
Dissertation submitted to the
Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Karnataka, Bangalore
In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of
AYURVEDA VACHASPATI M.D.
IN
DRAVYAGUNA
Under the Guidance of
Dr. KUBER SANKH M.D. (Ayu)
And Co-guidance of Dr. SHASHIKANTH B. NIDAGUNDI
M.D. (Ayu)
DEPARTMENT OF DRAVYA GUNA POST GRADUATE STUDIES & RESEARCH CENTER
SHRI D.G. MELMALAGI AYURVEDIC MEDICAL COLLEGE, GADAG - 582103
2006-2009
D.G.M.AYURVEDIC MEDICAL COLLEGE
POST GRADUATE STUDIES AND RESEARCH CENTER
GADAG - 582 103
This is to certify that the dissertation “Evaluation of medohara
(hypolipidaemic) effect of Chitraka (Plumbago zeylanica Linn.) – An experimental
study” is a bonafide research work done by Muktayakka Arali in partial fulfillment of
the requirement for the post graduation degree of “Ayurveda Vachaspati M.D. (Dravya
Guna)” Under Rajeev Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka.
Dr. Kuber Sankh
M.D. (Ayu)
Guide
Asst. Professor
Dept of Dravya Guna
DGMAMC, PGS&RC, Gadag
Date:
Place: Gadag
Dr. Shashikanth B. Nidagundi
M.D. (Ayu)
Co-guide
Lecturer
Dept of Dravya Guna
DGMAMC, PGS&RC, Gadag
Date:
Place: Gadag
J.S.V.V. SAMSTHE’S
D.G.M.AYURVEDIC MEDICAL COLLEGE
POST GRADUATE STUDIES AND RESEARCH CENTER
GADAG, 582 103
Endorsement by the H.O.D, principal/ head of the institution
This is to certify that the dissertation entitled “Evaluation of medohara
(hypolipidaemic) effect of Chitraka (Plumbago zeylanica Linn.) – An experimental
study” is a bonafide research work done by Muktayakka Arali under the guidance of
Dr. Kuber Sankh M.D. (Ayu), Asst. Professor, Dept of Dravya Guna, in partial
fulfillment of the requirement for the post graduation degree of “Ayurveda Vachaspati
M.D. in Dravya Guna” Under Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Bangalore,
Karnataka.
.
(Dr. G. B. Patil)
Principal,
DGMAMC, PGS&RC
Gadag
Date:
Place: Gadag
(Dr. G. V. Mulagund)
Professor & HOD
Dept. of Dravya Guna
DGMAMC, PGS&RC
Date:
Place: Gadag
Declaration by the candidate
I here by declare that this dissertation / thesis entitled “Evaluation of medohara
(hypolipidaemic) effect of Chitraka (Plumbago zeylanica Linn.) – An experimental
study” is a bonafide and genuine research work carried out by me under the guidance of
Dr. Kuber Sankh M.D. (Ayu), Asst. Professor, Dept of Dravya Guna, DGMAMC,
PGS&RC, Gadag.
Date: Signature of the candidate
Place: Gadag (Muktayakka Arali)
© Copy right
Declaration by the candidate
I here by declare that the Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Karnataka shall
have the rights to preserve, use and disseminate this dissertation/ thesis in print or
electronic format for the academic / research purpose.
Date:
Place: Gadag (Muktayakka Arali)
© Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Karnataka
i
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Any research is not an individual effort. It is a contributory effort of many hearts,
hands and heads. I am very much thankful to the subjects of this study.
I am extremely happy to express my deepest sense of gratitude to my respected
guide Dr. Kuber Sankh, M.D. (Ayu) for having inspired me in selecting the subject and
for his valuable guidance at every stage in preparing the dissertation.
I am grateful to Co-guide Dr. Shashikanth B. Nidagundi, M.D. (Ayu) for his
valuable suggestions, constant encouragement and for kind co-operation at all levels of
my work.
I express my gratitude to Dr. G. V. Mulagund, Professor and H.O.D for his advice
and encouragement in every step of this work.
I am sincerely grateful to Dr. G. B. Patil, Principal, for his encouragement and
providing all necessary facilities for this research work.
I offer my sincere thankas to Dr. G. S. Hiremath, Proffessor and HOD, Dept of
Dravya Guna, DGMAMC, Gadag for their kind suggestion and co-operation.
I extend my gratitude to Dr. Purushottamacharyulu, Dr. P. Shivaramudu,
Dr.Suresh Babu, Dr. K.S.R. Prasad, Dr.M.C. Patil, Dr. K. S. Paraddi, Dr. U. V. Purad,
Dr. R.V. Shettar, Dr. G. Danappagoudar, Dr. S. N. Belawadi, Dr. Samudri, Dr. J. G.
Mitti, Dr. Yasmin A.P, Dr. B.G .Swami, Dr. Veena. Kori and Dr. Yerigeri, R.M.O.
DGMAMC, Gadag.
I am especially thankful to Mr. Manjunath K. P., Mr. Vishwanath Swamy, and Mr.
Shivakumar Inamdar, Dr Ashok B. K., Mr. Suresh Huggishettar and Mr. Girish for their
heartful cooperation, timely help and advice.
I express my immense gratitude to Shri. V. B. Mundinamani (librarian) and Mr.
Shyavi and Mr. Kerur for facilitating me in collection and production of my thesis.
ii
I am at a loss of words while thanking my beloved parents Shri Veeranna Arali and
Smt. Akkamahadevi V. Arali and my dear husband Mr. Danesh Kendur and his family
members for all the love, affection and efforts for my progress and success. I am
extremely happy to express my deepest sense of gratitude to my all uncles and aunties.
I am extremely happy to express my heartfelt gratitude my beloved daughter
Sanjana and sisters, Uma, Pankaja, Nirmala and my brother Sharanabasava for constant
help and encouragement to move ahead.
I take this moment to express my thanks to my senior friends Dr. Shivaleela
Kudari, Dr. Ashwini Vastrad, Dr. Shalini Sharma, Dr. V. M. Kataraki, Dr. Rudrakshi, Dr.
Shivaleela Kalyani, Dr. Kamalakshi for their support and advice.
My in depth regards to my friends Dr. Savitha Bhat, Dr. Jaya, Dr. Kalavati D. P.
Dr. Vijayalaxmi, Dr. Mukta Hiremath, Dr. Veena. Jigalur, Dr. Anupama, Dr. Kavitha, Dr.
Sarvamangala, Dr. Prasanna Joshi, Dr. Sanjeeva, Dr.Neeraj, Dr. Adarsha, Dr. Nataraja,
Dr. Udaya, Dr. Shaileja, Dr. Ravi, Dr. Shivakumar, Dr. Asha Maradka, Dr. C.C.
Hiremath, Dr. S. B. Rotti, Dr. Bhopesh, Dr Deepa T. for their support and cooperation.
I express my immense thanks to Prabhu and Shettyappa Gouda, attenders dept of
Dravya Guna for their cooperation during the experiment.
I pay my tributes to the souls of all the animals which were sacrificed for the sake
of my work.
I would like to express my cordial thanks to all those who helped me directly or
indirectly in this work.
Date:
Place: Gadag (Muktayakka Arali)
iii
iii
ABBREVIATION
A. Hru – Ashtanga hrudaya
A. San – Ashtanga sangraha
AK –Amarakosha
API -Ayurvedic Pharmacopeia of India
BPN -Bhavaprakash Nighantu
Bhai. Ra -Bhaishajya Ratnavali
CD -Chakradatta
Cha.sa -Charaka samhita
DN - Dhanvantari Nighantu
KN -Kaiyadeva Nighantu
MN -Madanapala Nighantu
Mah. N – Mahaushadha Nighantu
NA -Nighantu Adarsha
PVS - P.V. Sharma
RN -Raja Nighantu
SGN -Shaligrama Nighantu
Su.sa -Sushruta samhita
VM – Vrunda Madhava
Sthanas:
Chi -Chikitsa sthana
Su -Sutra sthana
Ut -Uttaratantra
Ka -Kalpa sthana
Sha -Shareera sthana
Ni -Nidana sthana
Vi -Vimana sthana
iv
ABSTRACT OF
“EVALUATION OF MEDOHARA (HYPOLIPIDAEMIC) EFFECT OF
CHITRAKA (PLUMBAGO ZEYLANICA LINN.)
– AN EXPERIMENTAL STUDY”.
The objective of this study was to evaluate the medohra (Hypolipidaemic) effect
of Chitraka (Plumbago zeylanica Linn.) in alcoholic extract and in churna form in
glucocorticoid induced hyperlipidaemia. Hydrocortisone was (10mg/kg/day/i.p)
administered for two weeks to albino rats to increase the serum lipid levels. Alcoholic
extract churna of Chitraka was then administered in a dose of 200mg/kg/day/p.o and
180mg/kg/day/p.o respectively for four weeks. Atorvastatin was taken as the standard
drug at the dose of 5.5mg/kg/day/i.p. Chitraka, both in alcoholic extract and churna form
had significantly lowered the levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, VLDL and
increased HDL levels in glucocorticoid pre-treated groups. It was also effective in
reducing hyperglycemia, which was also induced by hydrocortisone. It also reduced
tissue lipid content of liver and regressed atheroma and plaque formation in aorta. The
present study indicates that, Chitraka alcoholic extract and churna in a dose of
200mg/kg/day/p.o and 180mg/kg/day/p.o respectively, has significantly reversed the
hyperlipidaemia induced by glucocorticoid. This suggests need for a further in depth
evaluation.
Key words: Chitraka, Hyperlipidaemia, Medohara, Hypolipidaemic, Glucocorticoid.
v
INDEX OF
“EVALUATION OF MEDOHARA (HYPOLIPIDAEMIC) EFFECT OF
CHITRAKA (PLUMBAGO ZEYLANICA LINN.)
– AN EXPERIMENTAL STUDY
CHAPTER CONTENT PAGES
1 Introduction 1- 3
2 Aims and Objectives 4
3 Review of literature
- Drug review
- Disease review
5 – 37
38 - 68
4 Materials and Methods 69 - 82
5 Observations and Results 83 – 107
6 Discussion 108 – 115
7 Conclusion 116 -117
8 Summary 118 -119
9 Bibliographic References 120 -130
vi
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: Drug review
Table No Title of Table Page No
1.1 Gana and varga of Chitraka according to different classics 7
1.2 Synonyms of Chitraka 8
1.3 Vernacular names of Chitraka 10
1.4 Rasapanchaka of Chitraka according to different classics 12
1.5 Karmas of Chitraka according to different classics 13
1.6 Rogaghnata of Chitraka according to different classics 14
1.7 Vishishta yogas of Chitraka 16-18
Table 2: Disease review
Table No Title of Table Page No
2.1 Clinical features of medoroga according to different authors 44
2.2 Normal serum lipid values 49
2.3 Characteristics of lipoprotein 59
2.4 Fredrickson’s classification of hyperlipoproteinemias 66
Table 3: Materials and methods Table No Title of Table Page No
3.1 Protocol of experiment 82
vii
Table 4: Observations and results Table No Title of Table Page No
4.1 Physico chemical values of Chitraka 83
4.2 Phytochemical analysis of Chitraka 85
4.3 Results of TLC 87
4.4 Master chart 90
4.5 Parameter 1.1 Values of Total cholesterol of all the groups 91
4.6 Summary of Data 91
4.7 ANOVA Table 92
4.8 Parameter 1.2 values of Triglyceride of all the groups 92
4.9 Summary of Data 93
4.10 ANOVA Table 93
4.11 Parameter 1.3 Values of HDL cholesterol of all the groups 94
4.12 Summary of Data 94
4.13 ANOVA Table 95
4.14 Parameter 1.4 Values of LDL cholesterol of all the groups 96
4.15 Summary of Data 96
4.16 ANOVA Table 97
4.17 Parameter 1.5 Values of VLDL cholesterol of all the groups 97
4.18 Summary of Data 98
4.19 ANOVA Table 98
4.20 Parameter 1.6 Values of serum glucose of all the groups 99
4.21 Summary of Data 99
4.22 ANOVA Table 100
4.23 Comparison of mean values of lipid levels between normal 101
viii
control and hyperlipidemic control groups
4.24 Comparison of mean values of lipid levels in between
hyperlipidemic control and alcoholic extract treated groups.
101
4.25 Comparison of mean values of lipid levels in between
hyperlipidemic control and churna treated groups.
102
4.26 Comparison of mean values of lipid levels in between
hyperlipidemic control and standard drug treated groups.
102
4.27 Comparison of mean values of lipid levels in between normal
control and churna to normolipid groups.
103
4.28 Comparison of mean values of lipid levels in between
hyperlipidemic control and alcoholic extract, churna and standard
drug treated groups.
103
4.29 Mean of all the groups for lipid levels 104
4.30 Mean of all the groups for serum glucose 105
LIST OF GRAPHS
Graph No Title of Graph Page No
1. Mean values of Total cholesterol of all groups 91
2. Mean values of Triglyceride of all groups 93
3. Mean values of HDL-C of all groups 95
4. Mean values of LDL-C of all groups 96
5. Mean values of VLDL-C of all groups 98
6. Mean values of Serum glucose of all groups 100
7. Comparison of mean values of lipid levels between normal
control and hyperlipidemic control groups
101
8. Comparison of mean values of lipid levels in between
hyperlipidemic control and alcoholic extract treated groups.
101
ix
9. Comparison of mean values of lipid levels in between
hyperlipidemic control and churna treated groups.
102
10. Comparison of mean values of lipid levels in between
hyperlipidemic control and standard drug treated groups.
102
11. Comparison of mean values of lipid levels in between normal
control and churna to normolipid groups.
103
12. Comparison of mean values of lipid levels in between
hyperlipidemic control and alcoholic extract, churna and
standard drug treated groups.
103
LIST OF PHOTOGRAPHS
Plate No Title of the photograph
1 Fig 1- Chitraka (Plumbago zeylanica Linn)
Fig 2 – Inflorescence of Chitraka
Fig 3 – Root of Chitraka
2 Fig 4 – Dry root of Chitraka
Fig 5 – Coarse powder of Chitraka
Fig 6 – Fine powder of Chitraka
Fig 7 – Soxhlet extraction
Fig 8 & 9 – Alcohol extraction
3 Fig 10 – Weighing of albino rat
Fig 11 – Albino rats in the cage
Fig 12 – Intra peritoneal route of administration
Fig 13 – Oral route of administration
4 Thin layer chromatography
5 Histopathology of liver
6 Histopathology of aorta
Introduction...
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 1
INTRODUCTION
Cardiovascular diseases with an incidence of approximately 50% are the main
cause of death in most advanced countries 1. The disease burden contributed by
cardiovascular diseases has been increasing in the developing world also. The World
Health Organization (WHO) estimates that every year 12 million people worldwide die
from cardiovascular diseases, with most of them being from the developing world 2.
The underlying primary cause of cardiovascular disease is believed to be
atherosclerosis, a progressive multifactorial disease of the arterial wall 3, 4. Central to the
pathogenesis of atherosclerosis is deposition of cholesterol in the arterial wall 5.
Previously considered a disease of the affluent, the past three decades have seen
considerable decline in the incidence and prevalence of atherosclerotic coronary artery
disease in the industrialized western world; whereas at the same time this problem is
assuming epidemic proportion in the developing world 6.
Coronary artery disease among Asian Indians has been found to be more severe,
diffuse and associated with serious complication and increasing mortality at a younger
age 7. By 2020 it is estimated that it will be the major cause of death in all regions of
world 8.
CHD is the number one killer among the diseases and it accounts for 37% of adult
deaths in the US every year 9. In India; persons suffering from the CHD are doubled in
the last 20 years. In South India, CHD incidences are 7.4% in rural area and 13.9% in
urban area, which is higher than north India (Rural- 3% and urban 9.7%). Mortality from
cardiovascular disorders in India is 430/100000 in both sexes and in males it is 460
whereas in females it accounts for 400/100000 deaths per year 10. It has been predicted
Introduction...
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 2
that cardiovascular diseases will be the most important cause of mortality in India by year
2015 11.
Wealth of evidence from epidemiological, clinical and experimental studies has
established the association between hyperlipidaemia and atherosclerosis,
hypercholesteraemia is clearly a risk factor. Of the lipoproteins, it is the LDL which is the
most atherogenic, where as HDL offers a protective effect and helps in removing
cholesterol from the arterial wall 12. The risk of IHD in individuals with
hypercholesterolemia is about thrice as great as in those with normal plasma cholesterol
levels 13.
It is emerging as major health problem in the modern era as it (Hyperlipidaemia)
leads to coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction and cerebrovascular accidents.
Hyperlipidaemia is an important, yet modifiable risk factor of all lipid
abnormalities. Thus, it has been suggested that reduction of plasma lipid levels either by
dietic restriction or by drugs may prevent the development of atherosclerosis or arrest its
progress. Studies have shown that a reduction in plasma cholesterol does infact reduce
the risk of myocardial infarction 14. Overall, 1% reduction in plasma cholesterol
concentration in middle-aged men reportedly results in 2% reduction in the incidence of
CHD 15.
In Ayurveda, there is no direct reference of a single disease entity that can be
directly correlated with the hyperlipidaemia. Moreover different scholars have different
opinions about the nearest possible disease. Most of them have considered
hyperlipidaemia under the heading of Medoroga.
Introduction...
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 3
Purpose of the study:
The available drugs like statins, fibrates and nicotinic acid, though very effective,
have a spectrum of adverse effects and are costly 16. Although the well known
hypolipidaemic agent “statin therapy” reduces the mortality and morbidity associated
with coronary artery disease, most of them don’t achieve the LDL cholesterol level;
besides, it also has a lot of side effects like increased lithogenecity of bile, nausea,
abnormal liver function and myosytis.
In classics Chitraka is highly valued for its lekhana and medohara action.
Medoroga being Vatakapha dosha predominant disease, the drugs which are having Vata-
Kaphahara properties, are mainly used. Chitraka which is having Katu rasa, Ushna
veerya, Katu vipaka and Vata-Kaphahara properties 17 used to treat it.
In the present context in spite of various existing hypolipidaemic drugs there is
necessity of still better, safe and effective hypolipidaemic drugs. Again Chitraka is easily
available and cost effective drug.
So with due consideration to above reasons, the present study was taken up to
confirm experimentally, the hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka.
Aims and objectives…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 4
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY
1. To carry Preliminary Phytochemical investigations of Chitraka (Plumbago zeylanica
Linn.) including thin layer chromatography (TLC).
2. To evaluate the medohara (Hypolipidaemic) effect of Chitraka using the
glucocorticoid induced hyperlipidaemic experimental model.
3. To evaluate the action of alcoholic extract of Chitraka on hyperlipidaemic animals.
4. To evaluate the action of Chitraka churna on hyperlipidaemic animals.
5. To evaluate the action of Chitraka churna on normolipid animals.
6. To compare the action of test drug in alcohol extract and in churna form along with
hyperlipidaemic control and standard drug treated groups.
7. To evaluate and compare the histopathological changes of liver and aorta samples in
between the groups.
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 5
DRUG REVIEW Historical aspect of drug:
Veda: No references were found regarding the drug, Chitraka in the Veda.
Purana: Not found any references of Chitraka in Purana.
Samhita kala 18: We find various references in samhita period regarding varieties,
preparations that are indicated in many diseases.
Charaka samhita: Acharya Charaka first recorded therapeutic use of Chitraka. He
described the same drug widely in 168 different conditions by two synonyms. Among
these synonyms, Chitraka is repeated for 165 times & Agni is repeated for three times.
Sushruta samhita: Sushruta used it in 99 various conditions using synonyms viz,
Chitraka repeated for 85 times, Agni for 6 times, Hutabhuk for 3 times, Hutashan for 2
times and Hutash for 3 times.
Ashtanga Hrudaya: Chitraka has been mentioned 104 times in different preparations.
Here Chitraka has been referred by three synonyms viz, Chitraka for 67 times, Agni for
27 times and Agnika for 10 times.
Kashyapa samhita: Kashyapa recorded many uses of Chitraka especially in Balagraha
chikitsa, Grahabaadhaa chikitsa, Udavarta chikitsa, Rajayakshma chikitsa etc.
Sharanghadhara Samhita: Sharanghadhara used the Chitraka in different preparations
like Kwatha, Choorna, Asava etc according to different diseases viz, Udara roga, Shotha,
Pinasa, Kshaya etc.
Vangasena: Vangasena described it in the management of Medoroga, vatarakta,
Udararoga, Shotha etc.
Bhavaprakasha: Bhavamishra has mentioned it for the treatment of different diseases
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 6
like Grahani, Arsha, Pandu, Rajayakshma, and Kasa.
Chakradatta: Chakrapaani, advocates its use in Sleepada, Dadru, Nasaarsha, Galagraha
etc.
Amarkosha 19: Chitraka is mentioned in Vanaushadhi varga of Amarkosha-2/4/80.
Kautilya Arthashastra 20: Chitraka is mentioned in Kautilya Arthashashtra, while
explaining Asavasambhara dravya in 29th patha and in 33rd patha it is mentioned while
explaining useful Kalka sambhara dravya in the preparation of Sura for the King. (Kau.
Arth.Adhi.-2, Adhy-25, Prakarana-42, Patha- 25 & 33)
Nighantu kala: In the Nighantu Kala, Chitraka is explained with a variety of synonyms
and its Gunakarmas.
Adhunika kala: Acharya Mahendrakumar shastri in his Brihat Dravyagunadarsha,
Ramsusheel Sharma in his Vanaushadhi nidarshika have described Chitraka along with
its three varieties. It is also described in Dravyaguna vignana written by Vd. P.V.
Sharma, Dr. J. L. N. Shastri, Dr. G. Pandey and in Data base on medicinal plants Vol – I,
Wealth of India Vol -VIII.
Modern botanical texts and various flora have identified Shweta Chitraka
to Plumbago zeylanica, Rakta Chitraka to Plumbago rosea (Syn. P.indica Linn) and that
of Neela chitraka to Plumbago capensis.
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 7
Gana and varga:
Classification according to different classics:
Sl.No. Different authors Gana / Varga
1. Charaka samhita Lekhaneeya Dashemani, Bedhaneeya Dashemani,
Deepaneeya Dashemani, Triptighna Dashemani,
Arshoghna Dashemani, Shoolaprashamana Dashemani
& Katuskandha.
2. Sushruta samhita Aragvadhadi gana, Varunaadi gana, Mushakakadi
gana, Pippalyadi gana, Mustadi gana, Amalakyadi
gana, Veerataraadi gana.
3. Ashtanga sangraha Aushadi Varga,Soshanadi Gana, Vamaka Gana,
Aragwadhadi Gana, Mushkakadi Gana, Vatskadi Gana,
Mustadi Gana.
4. Ashtanga Hridaya Aragvadhadi gana, Mushkadi Gana, Mustadi
Gana,Varunaadi gana.
5. Dhanwantari Nighantu Shatapushpaadi varga
6. Maadhava dravyaguna Shaaka varga
7. Madanapala Nighantu Shuntyadi varga
8. Kaiyadeva Nighantu Mishrakaadi varga
9. Bhavaprakasha Nighantu Hareetakyaadi varga
10. Raja nighantu Pippalyadi varga
11. Shaaligrama nighantu Hareetakyaadi varga
12. Nighantu Adarsha Chitrakaadi varga
13. Mahoushadi Nighantu Mahoushadhi varga
14. Amarakosha Vanaushadhi varga
Table 1.1 Showing Gana And Varga according to different classics
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 8
Paryaya Nama: Sr. No
Grantha → Synonyms ↓
Cha. Sa.
Su. Sa.
A. san.
DN21 MPN22 KN23 BPN24 RN25 SGN26 Mah. N.27
1. Agni + + + + + + - + - - 2. Anala - - - + - + + + + + 3. Aruna - - - + + + - + - - 4. Chitrapali - - - - - - - + - - 5. Chitrka + + + + + + + + + + 6. Chitranga - - - - - - - + - - 7. Chitrabanu - - - + - - - - - - 8. Dahana - - - + + + - + - - 9. Daruna - - - + + + - + - - 10. Dvipi - - - + - + - + - - 11. Havi - - - - + - - - - - 12. Hutabhuk - + - - + + - - - - 13. Hutasho - + - - - + - - - - 14. Jwala - - - - - + - - - - 15. Jwalana - - - - - + - - - - 16. Jyothi - - - - - + - - - - 17. Jyotishka - - - + - - - + - - 18. Krishana - - - + - - - + - - 19. Katu - - - + - - - + - - 20. Maali - - - - + - - - - - 21. Pachi - - - - + - - - - - 22. Paalaka - - - - - - - + - - 23. Paali - - - + - + - - - - 24. Paathi - - - + - + + + + + 25. Paavaka - - - + - + - + - - 26. Shabala - - - - - - - + - - 27. Shatha - - - - - + - - - - 28. Shardula - - - - - - - + - - 29. Shikha - - - - - + - - - - 30. Shiki - - - + - - - + - - 31. Shura - - - - - - - + - - 32. Ushana - - - - - - + - + + 33. Vallari - - - + - - - - - - 34. Vanhi - - - + + + - + - - 35. Vanhinama - - - - + - - - - - 36. Vyala - - - + + + + + + +
Table 1.2 showing synonyms of Chitraka
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 9
ÌlÉÂÌ£ü 28, 29, 30:
ÍcɧÉMü – ÍcɨÉÇ oÉÑ먂 §ÉÉrÉiÉå CÌiÉ| (pÉÉ. SÏ)
cÉåiÉͶÉiÉç, ÍcÉiÉÉå eÉlÉÉlÉç §ÉÉrÉiÉå CÌiÉ| (ÌlÉ. AÉ)
It improves and maintains agni. Therefore, it helps in protection of buddhi (mental
faculty) and proper health.
ÍcɧÉMü – ÍcɧÉçÇurÉÉbÉëÌlÉpÉÉå ÍpÉlÉÌiÉ oÉWÒûzÉÉå aÉÑsqÉÉlÉiÉͶɧÉMüÈ CÌiÉ | (lÉÉ.Ã.ÌuÉ.)
It hunts immediately many diseases like Gulma etc similar to vyaagra, so called as
Chitraka.
AlÉsÉ – AÎalÉiÉÑsrÉÈ EwhÉ:xmÉzÉåïuÉÏrÉåï cÉ|| (lÉÉ.Ã.ÌuÉ.)
It acts corrosively both internally and externally.
SWûlÉ – SWûiÉÏÌiÉ SWûlÉÈ|
It causes ulceration and burning sensation when applied over the skin.
mÉÏPûÏ – ÌmÉPûÌiÉ ÌWûlÉÎxiÉ xÉqrÉMçü ÌuÉsÉzlÉÉÌiÉ uÉÉ aÉëWûhÉÏ MÑü¸ÉÌS UÉåaÉÉlÉç uÉÉiÉÉÌSSÉåwÉÉǶÉåÌiÉ| (ÌlÉ.AÉ.)
It completyely cures Grahani, Kushta and subsides aggravated doshas also.
uÉÎlWûxÉÇgÉMü – uÉÎlWûÈ xÉÇgÉÉ rÉxrÉ |
uÉÎlWûmÉrÉÉïrÉlÉÉqÉMüÉ CirÉjÉïÈ| (pÉÉ. SÏ.)
It is known with all the names of fire.
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 10
Vernacular names (names in different languages) 31: Arabic Shitaraj, Shitaraz
Bengal Chita, Chitraik, Chittu, Sufaid
Burma KanChopphiju, Kinkhenphiu
Canarese Chitramula, Chitramulike, Mulike,Vahni
Chinese Pai Hua T’enga, Pe Hoa T’en
Deccan Chitarmul, Chtarmulam
English Ceylon Leadwort, White Flowered
Leadwort
Farasi Vekhvaranda,Bekhbarandar,Shitarak
French Dentelaire de Ceylon
Gujarathi Chitro, Chitra, Chitrapitaro
Hindi Chita,Chitra,Chiti,Chitraka Lalchita,Raktachitra,Lalchitarak
Kannada Chitramool, Bilay
Latin Plumbago zeylanica Linn.
Malayalam Tumpukotuveli
Marathi Chitraka, Chitramula
Nepal Chitu
Persian Bighbarindeh, Shitarak, Shitirik
Punjabi Chitraka
Sanskrit Chitraka, Agni, Anala, Dahana, Daaruna, Etc
Simhalee Ellantitul, Sudunitul
Tamil Adigaraddi, Akkini, Angodiveli, Kanilam
Telugu Agnimata, Chitramulamu, Tellachitramulamu
Urdu Chitalakri
Uriya Chitamulo, Chitaparu, Krishanu
Table 1.3 showing different Vernacular names of Chitraka
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 11
Types of Chitraka according to various granthas:
Chitraka is one of the important drugs in indigenous medicine and recognized mainly
based on the color of the flower.
According to Acharya Vagbhata 32 - Chitraka is of three kinds i.e. Pita, Sita and Asita.
Pita is yellow flowered, Sita white flowered and asita (Krishna) blue flowered variety. In
conformity with the above statement of Vagbhata, Asita variety is the best variety used as
Rasayana.
According to Rajanighantu 33, it is of two types i.e. Shwetachitraka and Raktachitraka.
Red flowered type is considered more potent with its properties than white coloured and
hence the few synonyms used in this context like, Atidipya, Dipyagni, are in
confirmatory with this statement. The other synonyms of Raktachitraka mentioned as
Kala, Vyala, Kalamoola, Maarjara and Chitranga.
According to Shaligramanighantu 34 it is of three types i.e. Shwetachitraka,
Raktachitraka and Krishnachitraka. The author has described the therapeutic uses of
Rakta Chitraka and Krishna Chitraka in detail.
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 12
Rasapanchaka of Chitraka: Sr
no
Grantha Rasa Guna Veerya Vipaka
1. Charaka Samhita 35 Katu Ushna Ushna Katu
2. Dhanvantari nighantu 36 - Ushna Ushna Katu
3. Madanapala nighantu 37 - Laghu, Rookhsa, Ushna Ushna Katu
4. Kaiyadeva nighantu 38 Tikta, Katu Laghu, Rookhsa, Ushna Katu
5. Bhavaprakash nighantu 39 - Laghu, Rookhsa, Ushna Ushna Katu
6. Raja nighantu 40 - Ushna Ushna Katu
7. Shaligrama nighantu 41 - Laghu, Rookhsa, Ushna Ushna Katu
8. Mahoushadha nighantu 42 - Laghu, Rookhsa, Ushna Ushna Katu
Table 1.4 showing rasapanchaka of Chitraka according to different classics
Chitraka is not having prabhava property.
It is evident from the above table that maximum numbers of the authors have accepted
Raspanchak as below:
Rasa : Katu.
Guna : Laghu, Ruksha, Ushna
Veerya: Ushna
Vipaka: Katu
According to Kaiyadeva nighantu, Chitrka is tridoshahara. It acts as Kaphahara due to its
Katu rasa, due to its Tikta rasa it acts as Pittahara and as Vatahara due to its Ushna guna.
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 13
Karma according to different classics: Sr. No
Grantha → Karma ↓
Cha.Sa.
Su. Sa.
A. san.
DN43 MP N44
KN45 BP N46
RN47 SG N48
Mah. N.49
1. Vaatahara - - - - + + + + - +
2. Pittahara - - - - - + - - - -
3. Kaphahara - + - + + + + + - +
4. Lekhana + - - - - - - - - -
5. Bhedana + - - - - - - - - -
6. Deepana + + - - - + - - - -
7. Triptigna + - - - - - - - - -
8. Arshoghna + - - - - - - - - -
9. Shoolaprashamana + - - - - - - - - -
10. Paachana + + - - - + + - + +
11. Graahi - - - - + - + - + +
12. Rochana - - - - - + - - - -
13. Rasayana - - + - - - - - - -
14. Kanduhara - - - - - - - + - -
15. Krimihara - - + - + + + + + +
16. Medogna - + - - - + - - - -
17. Vishahara - + - - - - - - - -
18. Vruna shodhaka - + - - - - - - - -
19. Yonidoshahara - + - - - - - - - -
20. Stanyashodhaka - + - - - - - - - -
21. Netrya - + - - - - - - - -
22. Vrushya - + - - - - - - - -
23. Medya - + - - - - - - - -
Table 1.5 showing karmas of Chitraka according to different classics
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 14
Rogaghnata according to different authors:
Sr.
No
Grantha →
Rogaghnata
↓
Cha.
Sa.
Su.
Sa.
A.
san.
DN50 MPN51 KN52 BPN53 RN54 SGN55 Mah.
N.56
1. Arsha + + + + - + + + +
2. Atisara + - - - - - - - -
3. Ama - - - - - + - - - -
4. Grahani + - + + + + + + + +
5. Gulma + - - - - - - - - -
6. Shoola + + + - - - - - - -
7. Kandu - - - - - - - + - -
8. Krimi - - + - + + + + + +
9. Kushta + + + - + + + - + +
10. Kasa + - + + - + - + +
11. Kshaya + - - - - - -
12. Meha + + + - - - - - - -
13. Pandu - + + - - - - - -
14. Shwitra - + + - - - - - - -
15. Swarabheda - + - - - - - - - -
16. Shotha + - - + + + + + + +
17. Udara + + - + - + - -
Table 1.6 showing rogaghnata of Chitraka according to different classics
Therapeutic uses of Chitraka 57:
1. In medhoroga, Chitraka root powder should be taken with madhu. (Vangasena 22)
2. Bark of Chitraka is pasted with in a jar, curd or buttermilk prepared in the same, on
intake it destroys piles. (Cha.Chi 14/76, Su.Chi.6/13, A.Hru.Chi. 8/30, VM 5/18)
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 15
3. Paste of Chitraka is mixed with Shunti and sourgruel is applied to Arsha.
(Cha.Chi14/68)
4. Powdered Chitraka root bark along with takra cures Atisara. (Cha.Chi.10/119)
5. Chitraka gruta is indicated in Udararoga. (Cha.Chi. 13/116)
6. In Kushta, Chitraka moola is indicated daily, along with gomutra. (Su.Chi. 9/45)
7. In Shwitra, gomutra mixed with Chitraka, Trikatu, madhu should be kept in a jar of
ghee for a fortnight. Than, patient should thereafter take it daily. (Su.Chi. 9/39)
8. In Sikatameha, Chitraka root decoction is indicated. (Su. Chi. 11/8)
9. Chitraka root powder and Bala root powder each one tola along with warm water
should be given in Pandu. (S.U.44/26)
10. Chitraka sidda ghruta is indicated in Sangrahani, Gulma, Shotha, Udararoga and
Pleeha. (C.D.)
11. Chitraka root should be applied in Shlipada with Devdaru.(C.D.)
12. To perforate the abscess, it is applied on wound. (C.D.)
13. Acharya Vagbhata described the details regarding the use of Chitraka root powder as
Rasayana. (A.H.U.39/62-65)
14. By preparing Ghruta with Chitraka mixed curd and again adding Chitraka root
powder and Takra Ghruta will be prepared and can be used in the patient suffering from
Shotha, Arsha, Atisara, Vataj Gulma, Prameha etc.(Ch.Chi.17/55,56)
Part used: Root & Root bark according to all classics.
Dose: ½ to 2 Masha 58
Powder – 1-2gm 59
Decoction – 25-50ml 60
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 16
Toxic effect 61: In small doses, it acts as a sudorific and stimulates the contraction of the
muscular tissue of the heart, intestine and uterus. In large doses, it causes death from
respiratory failure. It has toxic effect mainly on lung, liver and uterus. When applied
externally, the roots produce painful irritation and blisters. While administered internally
they act as narcotic irritant poisons, producing pain in the stomach, thirst, vomiting and
diarrhea.
Antidote 62: For lung, mastagi and gum acacia and for liver, rose flower and sandalwood
should be used.
Substitute 63, 64:
In the unavailability of Chitraka, the substitute for it is Danti kshara and Apamarga
mentioned by Bhavaprakasha poorvakhanda in Mishraprakarana.
While Praval and Manjistha mentioned by Unani Dravyagunadarsha.
Adulterant 65: Plumbago indica Linn. (Syn. P.rosae Linn.) commonly known as Rakta
Chitraka is used for the same conditions as P. zeylanica.
Vishistha yogas:
Sl.no
Vishistha yoga Uses
References
1. Hingusaurchalaadya gruta Vataja gulma Cha.chi.5/69
2. Hingvaadi choorna Vatakaphaja gulma Cha. chi. 5/80
3. Bhallatakadhya gruta Kaphaja gulma, Pleeha,
Grahani, Shwasa, Pandu
Cha. chi.5/146
4. Dantihareetaki Gulma, Shootha, Arsha,
Aruchi
Cha. chi.5/155
6. Chitrakadi lepa Shwitra Cha. chi.7/170
7. Mahapanchagavya gruta Apasmara Cha. chi.10/20
8. Chitrakadi gruta Shotha, Arsha, Gulma Cha. chi.12/56
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 17
9. Chitrakadi udvartana Shotha Cha. chi. 12/72
10. Pippalyadi choorna Udara roga Cha. chi.13/79
11. Vidangaadikshara Gulma, Pleeha Cha. chi.13/80
12. Panchakola gruta Udara,Shotha,Arsha, Gulma Cha. chi.13/112
13. Kshra vatika Shotha, Jalodara Cha. chi.13/163
14. Pippalyadi dwitiya pralepa Arsha Cha. chi.14/54
15. Chavyadi gruta Arsha Cha.chi. 14/108
16. Dantyarishta Arsha Cha. chi.14/145
17. Chitrakadi gutika Grahani Cha.chi.15/96-98
18. Chitrakadi leha Kasa Cha. chi.18/173
19. Shaddharana yoga Vatavyadhi Su. Chi. 4/4
20. Patralavana vatavyadhi Su. Chi. 4/30
21. Chitrakadi taila Bhagandhara Su. Chi. 8/50
22. Chitraka kwata Sikatameha Su. Chi.11/9
23. Dhanvantara gruta Pramehapidika Su. Chi. 12/5
24. Navayasa loha Prameha, Kushta, Shotha Su. Chi.12/11
25. Shtaphala gruta Udara, gulma, Shotha Su. Chi.14/14
26. Chitraka rasayana Shwitra Su. Chi 28/3
27. Madhukadi gruta Arsha A.Hru. Chi.8/130
28. Soorana modaka Arsha A.Hru. Chi.8/157
29. Chitrakadi kwata Shoola, Anaaha, Vibhanda A.Hru. Chi. 14/48
30. Tryushanadi gruta Vataja gulma A.Hru. Chi. 14/21
31. Chitraka gruta Udara A.Hru. Chi.15/7
32. Chitrakadi kalka Udara A.Hru. Chi. 15/42
33. Rohitaka grita Pleehavruddi A.Hru.Chi15/93
34. Lakshadi choorna Kushta A.Hru. Chi. 19/41
35. Vidangaadi pindi Kushta A.Hru. Chi. 19/45
36. Shashaankalekhadi lepa Kushta A.Hru. Chi. 19/46
37. Shwitranashaka lepa Shwitra A.Hru. Chi. 19/64
38. Gomutrasava Shwitra A.Hru. Chi. 20/7
39. Vyoshadi yoga Stoulya, Hridroga, Kamala A.Hru. So. 14/25
40. Chitraka guda Agnimandya Bhai. Ra. 10/273
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 18
Table 1.7 showing vishishta yogas of Chitraka
41. Agnitundi rasa Agnimandya Bhai. Ra. 10/94
42. Agnimukha lavana Agnimandya Bhai.Ra.10/86-88
43. Chitraka haritaki Kshaya,kasa,peenasa, gulma Bhai. Ra.63/28
44. Chitraka taila Nasarsha Bhai. Ra. 63/34
45. Navaka guggulu Medoroga Bhai. Ra. 39/43
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 19
Latin name: Plumbago zeylanica Linn.
Plumbum: Lead
Plumbago: That cures lead palsy
Zeylanica: Of ceylon
Taxonomic position of shweta chitraka:
According to Benthem & Hooker (1862-1883)
Kingdom - Plantae
Group - Angiospermae
Sub Group - Dicotyledonae
Division - Gamopetalae
Sub Division - Heteromerae
Family - Plumbaginaceae
Genus - Plumbago
Species - zeylanica
Family Characters 66: Plumbaginaceae
The plants of this family are perennial herbs or shrubs with narrow leaves, without
stipules, and bears water or chalk glands.
Stem - Erect or sometimes climbing.
Leaves -Often radical rosulate.
Inflorescence -Raceme, each flower having two lateral bracteoles, which always remain
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 20
sterile is found in Plumbago.
Flowers - Occur in terminal scapes or peduncles in panicles. Flowers bisexual, regular.
Calyx - Generally membranous, persistent, sepals connate, in an inferior, tubular, 5-10
ribbed calyx, often hyaline between the ribs.
Corolla - Petal free, 5, sometimes connate at the base in a short tube to which the
filaments are attached, rarely connate in a linear tube, hypogynous.
Stamens - Opposite the petals, 5 filaments adnate below to the corolla or nearly free,
anthers oblong, dorsified.
Ovary - Superior, unilocular, with a solitary basal anatropous ovule with two
integuments borne at the top of a long filiform funicle with the micropyle pointing
upwards. Styles five, opposite the sepals.
Fruit - Membraneous or coriaceous capsule, dry, dehiscent or indehiscent.
Seeds - Cylindrical, pendulous, albumen floury or absent, embryo straight. Among the
histological characters of prominence, the presences of epidermal glands are common
containing palisade and placed perpendicular to the organ. There are also long stalked
glandular shaggy hairs and simple unicellular hairs. The vessels are with simple
perforations and the wood parenchyma has simple pits. Cork develops superficially in the
cortex with chlorenchyma in groups or in the pericycle. Calcium oxalate present or
absent. The cells of the stem and the root are characterized by many special cells filled
with Plumbagin and these are sometimes differentiated like secretary cells.
Genera - This family contains about 10 genera.
Genus Characters 67: Plumbago
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 21
Perennial herbs or under shrubs, sometimes scan dent.
Leaves - Alternate, membranous, entire (in one species absent), amplexicaul and auricled
at the base, or with a petiole which is often dilated and amplexicaul.
Flowers - White rose colored, or blue in terminal spikes, bracts and bracteoles shorter
than the calyx, some times minute.
Calyx - Tubular, 5 toothed, clothed with prominent stipitate glands.
Corolla - Hypocrateriform, tube long, slender, limb spreading. With 5 equal or slightly
unequal entire lobes.
Stamens- Hypogynous, free from corolla, filaments dilated at the base, anthers linear
oblong.
Ovary - Attenuated at the apex into a terminal filiform style which divides above into 5
longitudinally stigmatose branches.
Capsule - Membranous, at length circumcises near the base, the deciduous part often
splitting into 5 valves from the base to apex.
Species - 280
Habitat:
A small genus of herbs, under shrubs or shrubs distributed in the tropics. Three species
are recorded from India of which two are considered medicinally important. A perennial,
sub-scan dent shrub found wild in peninsular India and West Bengal and cultivated in
gardens throughout India. While P. rosea is a native of the Sikkim and Khasia.
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 22
Habit 68:
Plumbago zeylanica Linn.
Stem - A perennial herb, subscandent, stems 0.6 to 1.5 M., long, somewhat woody,
spreading, terete, striate and glabrous.
Leaves - Thin 3.8-7.5 to 2.2-3.8 cm. ovate, sub acute, entire, glabrous, reticulatly Veined,
shortly and abruptly attenuated into a short petiole, petiole narrow, amplexicaul at the
base and often dilated into stipule like auricles.
Flowers - spikes, rachis, glandular, striate, bracteoles ovate, acuminate, shorter than the
calyx, glandular or not.
Calyx - 1 to 1.3 cm. long, narrowly tubular, persistent, densely, covered with stalked
glands, teeth small with membranous margins.
Corolla - White, slender, tube 2 to 2.5 cm, long, lobes 8 mm, long, obovate-oblong,
acute, apiculate.
Filaments - As long as the corolla tube, anthers exerted just beyond the throat.
Capsule - Oblong, pointed pericarp thin below, thick and hardened above.
Pharmacognostical Study 69, 70:
Macroscopic study of root:
Roots are 30cm or more in length, 6mm or more in diameter as also as short stout
pieces, including root stocks reddish to deep brown, scars of rootlets present; bark thin
and brown, internal structure striated; Odor, disagreeable; taste acrid.
Microscopic study of root:
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 23
Transverse section of root shows that the root is nearly circular in out line and it
shows following characters.
Cark - Outer most tissue of cork consisting of 5-7 rows of cubical to rectangular
dark brown cells.
Cortex - Secondary cortex consists of 2-3 rows of thin-walled, rectangular, light
brown cells. Most of the cortex cells contain starch grains. Secondary cortex followed by
wide zone of cortex, composed of large polygonal to tangentially elongated
parenchymatous cells, varying in size and shape, containing starch grains and some cells
with yellow contents. Fibers scattered singly or in a group of 2-6.
Phloem – It is a narrow zone of polygonal, thin-walled cells, consisting of usual
elements and phloem fibers. Similar to cortical zone, phloem fibers are usually in groups
of 2-5 or more, but occasionally may occur singly. Phloem fibers are lignified with
pointed ends and narrow lumen, similar in shape and size to those of secondary cortex.
Cambium – Indistinct.
Xylem – It is light yellow to whitish in color, vessels radially arranged with pitted
thickenings. Medullary rays – These are straight, 1-6 seriate, and cells radially elongated
and filled with starch grains. Stone cells absent.
Propagation & cultivation 71, 72: Its propagation is by seeds and by cuttings of side shoots. The compost mixture
consisting of equal parts of loam, leaf mould and sand is best suited for its cultivation.
Well-drained sunny situation and mild climate are preferable
Plumbago zeylanica can also be propagated by seeds, rooted shoots from the base
of the plant or by semi-ripe cuttings, treated with a growth hormone. Germination is
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 24
almost 100% if both ends of the seed are cut before sowing. Seeds germinate in 21–30
days at 21°C. After 3 months storage, germination decreased to 40%.
In vitro propagation: Plumbago zeylanica can be mass-produced using in vitro
cultivation of nodal explants, axillary buds, leaf or root explants and callus cultures. The
roots of the plants produced this way have a significantly higher content of plumbagin
than control plants, and there is potential for commercial cultivation.
Phytochemistry:
Roots contain plumbagin, droserone, elliptinone, nisoshinanolone,
plumbazeylanone, 3-chloroplumbagin, 3, 3’-biplumbagin, napthoquinone-citranone,
zeylnone and isozeylinone. Root bark contains plumbagin. Aerial parts contain free
amino acids. Leaves and stem contain volatile oil 73.
Two plumbagic acid glucosides, 3'-O-beta glucopyranosyl plumbagic acid
and 3'-O-beta-glucopyranosyl plumbagic acid methylester along with five
naphthoquinones (plumbagin, chitranone, maritinone, elliptinone and isoshinanolone),
and five coumarins (seselin, 5-methoxyseselin, suberosin, xanthyletin and xanthoxyletin)
were isolated from the roots of Plumbago zeylanica. All coumarins were not previously
found in this plant. Cytotoxicity of these compounds to various tumor cells lines was
evaluated, and plumbagin significantly suppressed growth of Raji, Calu-1, HeLa, and
Wish tumor cell lines 74.
Napthalene derivatives – the chief component is plumbagin, together with
3-chloroplumbagin, 3,3”-biplumbagin, 3”,6”-biplumbagin(chitranone), isozeylanicone,
zeylanicone, elliptinone and droserone.
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 25
Triterpenes – Lupeol and lupenyl acetate have been isolated from the root.
Amino acids – Aspartic Acid, tryptophan, trysonine, threonine, alanine, histidine,
glycine, methionine and hydroxy proline were isolated from the aerial parts 75.
Plumbagin is a plant-derived naphthoquinone possessing a number of
pharmacological activities. It has been shown to have antimicrobial activity. In animals, it
has antimalarial, anticarcinogenic, cardiotonic, antifertilityaction, and anti-atheroslerosis
effects. Plumbagin is named after the plant genus Plumbago, from which it was originally
isolated.
Plumbagin 76:
IUPAC name: 5-hydroxy-2-methyl-naphthalene-1, 4-dione
Chemical formula: C11H8O3
Molar mass:188.17942 g/mol
Pharmocology:
The root of the plant and its constituents are credited with potential
therapeutic properties including atherogenic, cardio tonic, hepato protective and
neuroprotective properties 77.
The roots of Plumbago zeylanica have shown to possess antipyretic,
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 26
appetizer, uterotonic, antibacterial, antifungal, antifertility, anticancer(Plumbagin),
anticoagulant, antitumor, hepatoprotective, cytotoxic, and CNS depressant properties 78.
Traditional uses of Plumbago zeylanica 79:
Africa and Asia: Plumbago zeylanica is very popular as a remedy for skin diseases,
infections and intestinal worms, especially leprosy, scabies, ringworm, dermatitis, acne,
sores, ulcers of the leg, haemorrhoids and hookworm.
West Africa: The root or the leaves crushed with lemon juice are used as a counter-
irritant and vesicant. The pulped roots or aerial parts are inserted into the vagina as an
abortifacient.
Southern Africa: A paste of the root in vinegar, milk and water and even cold infusion
of Chitraka are used to treat influenza and blackwater fever.
East Africa: Pounded roots are applied to swollen legs. A paste of powdered root or the
root sap is used for tattooing by different tribes. The paste or sap causes blisters and the
new skin has a darker color.
Nigeria: The roots pounded with vegetable oil are applied to rheumatic swellings.
Ethiopia: Powdered bark, root or leaves are used to treat gonorrhoea, syphilis,
tuberculosis, rheumatic pain, swellings and wounds.
Zambia: A root decoction with boiled milk is swallowed to treat inflammation in the
mouth, throat and chest.
Zimbabwe: Plumbago zeylanica root cooked with meat in soup is eaten as an
aphrodisiac, and it helps digestion. A root infusion is taken orally to treat shortness of
breath.
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 27
Madagascar: The roots are applied as a vesicant, while in Mauritius and Rodrigues a
root decoction is used to treat diarrhoea and dyspepsia.
Physicochemical standards of Plumbago zeylanica 80:
1. Foreign matter - not more than 3 %
2. Total ash - not more than 3 %
3. Acid insoluble ash - not more than 1%
4. Alcohol soluble extractive - not less than 12 %
5. Water soluble extractive - not less than 12 %
Research profile:
Anti-microbial activity:
A chloroform extract of Plumbago zeylanica showed significant activity against
pencillin and non-pencillin resistant strain of Neissaria gonorrhoea. It also showed
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 28
antibacterial activities against Bacillus mycoides, B. pumilus, B. subtilis, salmonella
typhi, staphylococcus aureus and others. Eye drops containing 50μg/ml of
Plumbagin demonstrated significant antibacterial, antiviral and anti chlamydial
effects in eye diseases with few side effects. Aqueous hexane and alcoholic extracts
of the plant were found to show intensive antibacterial activity. The alcoholic extract
was the most active and showed no toxicity when assessed using fresh sheep
erythrocytes 81.
Ethanolic extract of Plumbago zeylanica root was investigated for its antimicrobial
activities against 11 human pathogenic bacteria and 6 phytopathogenic fungi using
disc diffusion method and poisoned food technique respectively. The extract
exhibited good antibacterial and antifungal activities against the test organisms.
Among the test bacteria, Vibrio cholerae was found to be the most sensitive to the
extract showing the highest diameter of zone of inhibition and lowest minimum
inhibitory concentration (MIC) value (200 g/ml). The extract was also very effective
against Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa showing MIC value of 250
g/ml 82.(M Shafiqur Rahman and M Nural Anwar)
Anti-Helicobacter pylori activity of Plumbago zeylanica: The results revealed that
Plumbago zeylanica L. had the highest inhibitory effects against H. pylori 83.
Immnomodulatory activity:
The effect of plumbagin was studied on peritoneal macrophages of BABL/c mice,
evaluated by bacterial activity, hydrogen peroxide production and superoxide anion
release. The bactericidal activity in vivo of plumbagin trated mouce macrophages
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 29
was estimated using staphylococcus aureus and in low doses of plumbagin caused a
constant increase in bactericidal activity. It was also seen to exert a similar response
on oxygen radical releases showing a correlation between oxygen radical release
and bactericidal activity. Plumbagin appeared to augment macrophase bactericidal
activity at low concentration by potentiating oxygen radical release, where as at
higher concentration it has inhibitory effects 84.
The antiallergic properties of the 70% ethanol extract from Plumbago zeylanica
stems (EPZ) were investigated in the present study. The extract (500, 1000 mg/kg,
p.o.) dose-dependently inhibited systemic anaphylactic shock induced by compound
48/80 in mice, reduced homologous passive cutaneous anaphylaxis and skin
reactions induced by histamine or serotonin in rats, significant differences were
observed at the dose of 1000 mg/kg 85. (Dai Y et.al)
Anti-inflammatory activity:
A phosphate buffered saline extract of the roots of Plumbago zeylanica stabilizes
red blood cells subjected to both heat and hypotonic induced lyses. A biphasic
response and the reduction in the enzymatic activity of alkaline and acid
phosphatases were observed and adenosine triphosphate activity was stimulated in
liver homogenates of formaldehyde-induced arthritic rats 86.
Anti-cancer activity:
The plumbagin has been reported as having anticancer activity against fibro
sarcoma induced by methyle cholanthrene and P388 lymphocytic leucamia, but not
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 30
against L1210 lymphoid leukemia in mice. It is thout to be inhibitor of mitosis. It
has been evaluated against Dalton’s ascetic lymphoma where an inhibition of tumor
growth and a significant enhancement of mean survival time were observed for
trated mice when compared to control group. Peritoneal cell counts are also
enhanced. Plumbagin treated group were able to reverse the change in various
hematological parameters which are a consequence of tumor inoculation. Studies
have shown that plumbagin, when administered in the dose of 4mg/kg body weight
caused tumor regression in rats 3-methyl-4dimethyl aminoazobenzene (3MeDAB)-
induced hepatoma. It reduced levels of glycolytic enzymes such as hexokinase,
phosphoglucoisomerase and aldolase levels, which are increased of in hepatoma
bearing rats, and levels of gluconeogenic enzymes such as glucose-6-phosphatase
and fructose-1,6-diphosphatase which are decreased in tumor hosts 87.
Plumbagin administered intramurally and orally at 2mg/kg decreased tumor growth
by 70% and 60% respectively in rats with methylchloranthrene-induced tumor 88.
Anticancer mechanism of plumbagin, a natural compound, on non-small cell lung
cancer cells: Plumbagin exerted anticancer activity on NSCLC cells by modulating
the pro-survival and pro-apoptotic signaling that causes induction of apoptosis 89.
(Gomathinayagam R et.al.)
Hypolipidemic activity:
When administered to hyperlipidaemic rabbits plumbagin reduced serum
cholesterol and LDL cholesterol by 53-86% and 61-91% respectively. It also
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 31
lowered the cholesterol/phospholipids ratio and elevated HDL cholesterol
significantly. Furthermore, Plumbagin treatment prevented the accumulation of
cholesterol and triglyceride in the liver and aorta and caused regression of
atheromatous plaques of the thoracic and abdominal aorta. The animal with
plumbagin exerted more fecal cholesterol and phospholipids 90.
Effect of Plumbago zeylanica in hyperlipidaemic rabbits and its modification by
vitamin E: Effect of ethanolic extract (50% v/v) of Plumbago zeylanica (root)
alone and combined with vitamin E (an antioxidant) was studied in experimentally
induced hyperlipidaemic rabbits. There was significant reduction in serum total
cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Marked reduction was
observed with the formulation of P.zeylanica and vitamin E. The total
cholesterol/HDL and LDL/HDL cholesterol ratios were found significantly
decreased (P<0.05). P.zeylanica showed good margin of safety as determined by
acute toxicity studies in albino rats and albino rabbits, as well as by the absence of
adverse effects on haematological and biochemical parameters in albino rabbits
upto 60 days of administration 91. (Alpana Ram)
Anti-oxidant activity:
At a concentration of 1mM plumbagin prevented peroxidation in liver and heart
homogenates. By comparision with menadione (which is having one hydroxyl
group less) it was suggested that plumbagin may prevent NADPH and ascorbate-
induced microsomal lipid peroxidation by forming hydroquinones. These may
trap free radical species involved in catalyzing lipid peroxidation 92.
Antioxidant properties of Plumbago zeylanica aqueos and alcoholic extract of
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 32
roots significantly inhibited lipid peroxidation induced by cumene hydroperoxide,
ascorbate-fe(2)+ and peroxynitrite. It contained high amount of polyphenols and
flavonoids 93. (Tilak Jai C et.al)
Anti-fertility activity:
In the rats treatment during the first weeks of pregnancy abolished certain uterine
proteins resulted in both pre implantationary loss and abortion of fetus. The
uterine endopeptidases (cathepsin D. remin, and chymotropsin) were studied
after the root powder has induced and cathepsin D and remin may play a major
role in maintanence of pregnancy and cymotripsin may be involved in post
abortive involution. Plumbagin, at the dose of 1 & 2 mg/kg body weight
prevented implant, induced abortion in albino rats without any tetragenic effects,
and produced a significant inhibitory effect on copper acetate-induced ovulation
in rabbits 94.
Uterine stimulant activity:
The juice extracted from the root was found to have potent activity when treated
on rat uterus in vitro, as well as on isolated human uterus 95.
Anti-stress activity:
Protective effect of Plumbago zeylanica against cyclophosphamide-induced
genotoxicity and oxidative stress in Swiss albino mice: Plumbago zeylanica was
tested for its possible in vivo protective effect against cyclophosphamide-induced
genotoxicity and oxidative stress in Swiss albino mice. Pretreatment with the
alcoholic root extract of Plumbago zeylanica (250 and 500 mg/kg body weight
orally for 5 days) significantly reduced the frequency of micronucleated
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 33
polychromatic erythrocytes (MnPCEs), increased the PCE/NCE
(normochromatic erythrocyte) ratio in the bone marrow, and decreased the levels
of lipid peroxidation products with concomitant changes in the status of
antioxidants. Both doses of Plumbago zeylanica were effective in exerting a
protective effect against cyclophosphamide-induced genotoxicity and oxidative
stress 96.
Shlokas:
ÌlÉÂÌ£ü of mÉrÉÉïrÉ:
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 34
ÍcɧÉMü – ÍcɨÉÇ oÉÑ먂 §ÉÉrÉiÉå CÌiÉ| (pÉÉ. SÏ)
cÉåiÉͶÉiÉç, ÍcÉiÉÉå eÉlÉÉlÉç §ÉÉrÉiÉå CÌiÉ| (ÌlÉ. AÉ)
ÍcɧÉçÇurÉÉbÉëÌlÉpÉÉå ÍpÉlÉÌiÉ oÉWÒûzÉÉå aÉÑsqÉÉlÉiÉͶɧÉMüÈ CÌiÉ | (lÉÉ.Ã.ÌuÉ.)
AlÉsÉ – AÎalÉiÉÑsrÉÈ EwhÉ:xmÉzÉåïuÉÏrÉåï cÉ|| (lÉÉ.Ã.ÌuÉ.)
SWûlÉ – SWûiÉÏÌiÉ SWûlÉÈ|
mÉÏPûÏ – ÌmÉPûÌiÉ ÌWûlÉÎxiÉ xÉqrÉMçü ÌuÉsÉzlÉÉÌiÉ uÉÉ aÉëWûhÉÏ MÑü¸ÉÌS UÉåaÉÉlÉç uÉÉiÉÉÌSSÉåwÉÉǶÉåÌiÉ|
(ÌlÉ.AÉ.)
uÉÎlWûxÉÇgÉMü – uÉÎlWûÈ xÉÇgÉÉ rÉxrÉ |
uÉÎlWûmÉrÉÉïrÉlÉÉqÉMüÉ CirÉjÉïÈ| (pÉÉ. SÏ.)
mÉrÉÉïrÉ:
kÉluÉliÉËU ÌlÉbÉhOÒû:
ÍcɧÉMüÉåSWlÉÉå urÉÉsÉ:mÉÉPûÏlÉÉå SÉÂhÉÉåÅÎalÉMü:|
erÉÉåÌiÉwMüÉå uÉssÉUÏ uÉÎlWû: mÉÉsÉÏ mÉÉOûÏ MüOÒû: ÍzÉZÉÏ ||
¢ÑüwhÉÉÂhÉÉåÅlÉsÉÉå ²ÏmÉÏÍcɧÉpÉÉlÉÑ¶É mÉÉuÉMü:
qÉSlÉmÉÉsÉ ÌlÉbÉhOÒû:
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AÎalÉqÉÉÍsÉ WûÌuÉÈmÉÉcÉÏ uÉÎlWûlÉÉqÉÉ ÌuÉzÉåçwÉiÉÈ||
MæürÉSåuÉ ÌlÉbÉhOÒû:
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 35
ÍcɧÉMüÉå SWûlÉÉå uÉÎlWûÈ mÉÉPûÏlÉÉå SÉÂhÉÉåÅÂhÉÈ||
urÉÉsÉÉå WÒûiÉÉzÉÉå WÒûiÉçpÉÑYmÉÉsÉÏ mÉÉPûÏ cÉ mÉÉuÉMüÉÈ |
erÉÉåÌiÉurÉÉïsÉÉåÅlÉsÉÉå ²ÏmÉÏ ÍzÉZÉÉÎalÉeuÉïsÉlÉÈ zÉPûÈ ||
UÉeÉÌlÉbÉhOÕû:
ÍcɧÉMüÉåÎalɶÉzÉÉSÕïsÉͶɧÉmÉÉsÉÏ MüOÒûÈÍzÉZÉÏ|
¢üzÉÉlÉÑSïWûlÉÉå urÉÉsÉÉåerÉÉåÌiÉwMüÈ mÉÉsÉMüxiÉjÉÉ||
AlÉsÉÉåSÉÂhÉÉåuÉÎlWûÈ mÉÉuÉMüÈ zÉoÉsÉçiÉjÉÉ|
mÉÉPûÏ ²ÏmÉÏcÉ ÍcɧÉÉ…¡ûÉå gÉårÉÈ zÉÔU¶É ÌuÉÇzÉÌiÉÈ||
U£üÍcɧÉMü:
MüÉsÉÉåurÉÉsÉÈ MüÉsÉqÉÔsÉÉåÅÌiÉSÏmrÉÉå qÉÉeÉÉïUÉåÅÎalÉSÉïWûMüÈ mÉÉuÉMü¶É|
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pÉÉuÉmÉëMüÉzÉ ÌlÉbÉÇhOÒû:
ÍcɧÉMüÉåÅlÉsÉlÉÉqÉÉ cÉ mÉÉPûÏ urÉÉsÉxiÉjÉÉåwÉhÉÈ|
qÉWèÉæwÉkÉ ÌlÉbÉÇhOÒû:
ÍcɧÉMüÉåÅlÉsÉlÉÉqÉÉ cÉ mÉÉPûÏ urÉÉsÉxiÉjÉÉåwÉhÉÈ|
qÉÉkÉuÉ SìurÉaÉÑhÉ:
ÍcɧÉMüÉåÅÎalÉxÉqÉÈ mÉÉMåüzÉÉåjÉÉzÉïÈ ¢ÑüÍqÉMÑü¸WûÉ|
xÉUÇ mÉÑlÉlÉïuÉÉrÉÑaqÉqÉÑwhÉuÉÏrÉïÇ UxÉÉrÉlÉqÉç || (ÌuÉÌuÉkÉÉæwÉÍkÉ uÉaÉï)
zÉÉÍsÉaÉëÉqÉ ÌlÉbÉhOÕû pÉÔwÉhÉ:
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 36
ÍcɧÉMüÉåÅlÉsÉlÉÉqÉÉcÉmÉÉPûÏurÉÉsÉxiÉjÉÉåwÉhÉÈ|
aÉÑhÉMüqÉï:
kÉluÉliÉËU ÌlÉbÉhOÒû:
ÍcɧÉMüÉåÅÎalÉxÉqÉÈ mÉÉMåü MüOÒÑMüÈ MüTüzÉÉåTüÎeÉiÉç ||
uÉÉiÉÉåSUÉzÉÉåïaÉëWûhÉϤÉrÉmÉÉhQÒûÌuÉlÉÉzÉlÉÈ |
qÉSlÉmÉÉsÉ ÌlÉbÉhOÒû:
ÍcɧÉMüÈ MüOÒûMüÈ mÉÉMåü uÉÎlWû¢ÑüimÉÉcÉlÉÉå sÉbÉÑ È|
äÉÉåwhÉÉå aÉëWûhÉÏMÑü¹zÉÉåTüÉzÉïÈ ¢ÑüÍqÉMüÉxÉÎeÉiÉç ||
zsÉåwqÉÉÌlÉsÉWûUÉå aÉëÉWûÏ iÉcNûÉMÇü zsÉåwqÉuÉÉiÉlÉÑiÉç ||
MæürÉSåuÉ ÌlÉbÉhOÒû:
ÍcɧÉMüÉå SÏmÉlÉxiÎxMüÈ MüOÒûÈ mÉÉMåü UxÉå sÉbÉÑÈ|
AÎalÉuÉiÉç mÉÉcÉlÉÉå äÉÉå uÉÏrÉÉåïwhÉÉå UÉåcÉlÉÉå eÉrÉåiÉç ||
aÉëWûhÉÏMüTüuÉÉiÉÉqÉzÉÉåTüMÑü¹ÉåSU Ì¢üqÉÏlÉç|
MüOÒûMüiuÉÉiÉç MüTÇü WûÎliÉ ÌiÉ£üiuÉÉiÉç ÌmɨÉlÉÉzÉlÉÈ ||
AÉæwhrÉÉSè uÉÉiÉÇ mÉëzÉqrÉiÉå ̧ÉSÉåwÉblÉÉå AÎalÉSÏmÉlÉÈ |
iÉcNûÉMÇü sÉbÉÑ xÉÇaÉëÉWûÏ MüTüÌmɨÉÌuÉlÉÉzÉlÉqÉç ||
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 37
UÉeÉ ÌlÉbÉûhOÒ:
ÍcɧÉMüÉåÅÎalÉxÉqÉÈ mÉÉMåüMüOÒûÈ zÉÉåTüMüTüÉmÉWûÉ:|
uÉÉiÉÉåSUÉzÉÉåïaÉëWûhÉÏÎl¢üÍqÉMühQÕûÌiÉlÉÉzÉlÉÈ||
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UxÉåÌlÉrÉÉqÉMüÉå sÉÉåWåûuÉåkÉMü¶É UxÉÉrÉlÉÈ||
pÉÉuÉmÉëMüÉzÉ ÌlÉbÉÇhOÒû:
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äÉÉåwhÉÉå aÉëWûhÉÏMÑü¸zÉÉåjÉÉzÉïÈ ¢ÑüÍqÉMüÉxÉlÉÑiÉç|
uÉÉiÉzsÉåwqÉWûUÉåaÉëÉWûÏuÉÉiÉblÉÈ zsÉåwqÉÌmɨɾÒûiÉç||
qÉWûÉæwÉkÉ ÌlÉbÉÇhOÒû:
ÍcɧÉMüÈ MüOÒûMüÈ mÉÉMåüuÉÎlWû¢ÑüimÉÉcÉlÉÉå sÉbÉÑ:|
äÉÉåwhÉÉå aÉëWûhÉÏMÑü¸zÉÉåjÉÉzÉïÈ ¢ÑüÍqÉMüÉxÉlÉÑiÉç|
uÉÉiÉzsÉåwqÉWûUÉåaÉëÉWûÏuÉÉiÉblÉÈ zsÉåwqÉÌmɨɾÒûiÉç||
qÉÉkÉuÉ SìurÉaÉÑhÉ:
aÉÇQûÏU ͶɧÉMüzcÉåÌiÉ zÉxrÉiÉå MüTüqÉÉÂiÉå|
MüÉsÉzÉÉMÇü aÉUzsÉåwqÉzÉÉåjÉblÉÇ SÏmÉlÉÇ MüOÒû||
zÉÉÍsÉaÉëÉqÉ ÌlÉbÉhOÕû pÉÔwÉhÉ:
ÍcɧÉMüÈ MüOÒûMüÈ mÉÉMåü uÉÎlWû¢ÑüimÉÉcÉlÉÉåsÉbÉÑÈ|
Drug review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 38
äÉÉåwhÉÉåaÉëWhÉÏ MÑü¸zÉÉåTüÉzÉïÈ MÑüqÍqMüÉxÉlÉÑiÉç||
uÉÉiÉzsÉåwqÉWûUÉåaÉëÉWûÏuÉÉiÉÉzÉïÈ zsÉåwqÉÌmɨɾÒûiÉç|| (Bha. Para)
ÍcɧÉMüÈ mÉÉcÉMüÉåäÉÉåsÉbÉѶÉÉÎalÉmÉëSÏmÉlÉÈ|
mÉÉMåüMüOÒûaÉëÌWûMü¶ÉÌiÉ£üÉåwhÉÉåÂÍcÉSÉåqÉiÉÈ||
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AÉqÉǤÉrÉÇcÉÉåSUÇ cÉ lÉÉzÉrÉåÌSÌiÉMüÐÌiÉïiÉÈ|
MüOÒûiuÉÉiMüTüÉmÉëÉå£üÎxiÉ£üiuÉÉÎimɨÉlÉÉzÉMüÈ||
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Disease review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 38
DISEASE REVIEW
Introduction to Medoroga:
The definition of swastya it self says that the person who is having structural and
functional homeostasis of dosha, dhatu, mala, agni, aatma, indriya and mana governs the
normal physiological functions of the human body 97. Disturbance or imbalance in any
one of the above leads to the origin of disease 98. So, Medoroga is the disease caused by
the disturbance in one of the essential seven component of the body i.e. Meda.
Medo Roga may be correlated with hyperlipidaemia and associated disorders on
the basis of clinical signs and complications of the disease.
Basic concept of Meda:
Literally, the word Meda is derived from root “Jhimida Snehana”. This stands for sneha,
fat, oil etc. It means the substance, which has snigdhatva property, is called Meda. There
are many oily substances in the body like Vasa, Majja etc.
Defination of Meda:
In shabdakalpadrum, it is mentioned that Meda is “Mamsa prabhava dhatu
vishesha” and this is the fourth dhatu. The important function of meda dhatu is to
smoothen the body with its snehana property. “Medayati snehayati anen iti medah”.
Synonyms of Meda:
Mamsaj and Mamsatej
Asthi Kruta
Vasa and Vapa
Disease review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 39
Formation of Meda dhatu 99:
According to Charaka, the Rakta dhatu is combined with tej, apa and is made
solid by the agni. So that it gets converted into mamsa, that again being digested by its
own agni, “medodhatvagni” and stirred up by the agni and getting combined with the
quality of apa and unctuous substances and finally gets converted into the medodhatu.
Bautik composition of Meda dhatu 100:
qÉåSxrÉqoÉÑpÉÑuÉÉæ.. |
Meda dhatu is mainly composed by Jala and Prutvi mahabhoota.
Pramana of Meda Dhatu 101:
The total quantity of meda is two anjali and the vasa is three anjali. Thus, total
meda content of body is enumerated as 5 anjali and total measurable body elements are
counted as 56.5 anjali. From this proportion, it is evident that total meda content of body
is 11 to 12% approximately. Modern physiology also mentioned the same amount of fat.
This quantity may vary from person to person.
Functions of Medadhatu 102, 103:
According to Sushruta, sneha, sweda, dradhatva and asthipushti are the functions
of medadhatu. Again, netra and gatrasnigdhata are the additional functions of meda
mentioned by astang samgraha.
qÉåSÈ xlÉåWûxuÉåSÉæ SèRûiuÉÇ mÉÑ̹qÉxjÉÉlÉÉÇ cÉ |
Snehana: Sneha property helps to keep luster of skin, hairs and eyes etc.
Swedas: Sweda is the mala of meda. Thus meda produces sweda and keeps skin moist.
Asthi poshana: Asthi being its next dhatu, the meda nourishes asthidhatu.
Disease review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 40
Drudatva: This is possible with the help of snayu the upadhatu of meda. Both snayu and
sandhi are directly related to asthi dhatu. Snayu provides support to asthi and sandhi
helps in joint formation.
Meda protects internal organs by covering them all around allowing their free movements
without injury.
Netra and gaatrasnigdhata : These are the symptoms of sthoulya and may arise through
increased snehana function of meda.
Ashryashrayeebhava of Meda 104:
Kapha dosha resides in meda dhatu.
Thus kapha is ashrayee and meda is ashraya.
Medovaha Srotasa:
The internal transport system of the body is represented as Srotamsi. It has been
given a place of fundamental importance in Ayurevda both in health and disease
condition. Dhatus are nourished through their respective srotases and one srotas cannot
provide nourishment to another dhatu. The Meda dhatu gets nutrition from the preceding
dhatu i.e. Mamsa (Poshaka) through its own srotas called Medovaha Srotas.
Moola of Medovaha Srotas :
Charaka 105 - Vrikka and Vapavahana
Sushruta 106 - Vrikka and Kati
Vagbhat 107 - Vrikka and Mamsa
The three Acharyas have considered collectively that Vrikka as one of the moola
of Medovaha Srotas but vapavahana, kati and mamsa are mentioned as second moola
separately.
Disease review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 41
Vrikka:
Vrikka, one of the kosthanga formed by the sara of rakta and meda dhatu. Charaka has
considered as “Moola” so these structures must be directly related with fat metabolism.
But, there is no such exact evidence in Modern science as well as Ayurevdic Science. If
we take into the consideration of two structures situated above the two kidneys i.e. Supra-
renal glands as vrikka that fulfils the all aspects of fat metabolism.
Vapavahana:
Vapavahan is also a kosthanga and second root of Medovaha Srotas. Chakrapani has
interpreted it as Tailavartika while Dr. Ghanekar has considered it as omentum, where the
maximum Meda is stored.
Kati:
Acharya Sushruta has given anatomical preference than the physiological point of view in
considering kati as moola of medovaha srotas. Kati is the place where the fat
accumulates.
Mamsa:
Vagbhat has considered mamsa as the moola of medovaha srotas. It is not easy to explain
correctly. But we might have considered the Vasa (Mamsagata Sneha) below the skin and
as such the entire skin may be considered as the moola of Medovaha Srotas 108.
Pathophysiology of Medoroga 109:
According to the principles of Ayurveda, rasa is the main factor for providing
nourishment to the body and rest of the dhatus. rasa dhatu is also responsible for staulya
and karshya. Intake of fat and carbohydrate rich diet and lack of physical exercise gives
rise to origin of agnimandya condition results the production of Ama. Ama increases the
Disease review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 42
meda dhatu and the medodhatu thus produced makes body sthoola.
Etiology of Medo Roga 110, 111:
According to most of the authors unbalanced diet and sedentary habits are the important
causes of Medoroga. As per the description available in the Ayurvedic classics etiological
factors of Medoroga may be classified as follows –
Dietary Factors: These include atisampurna ahara (over eating), adhyashana
(repeated eating), madhura-guru-sheeta dravya ahara, sleshmala-dravya ahara, ati
meda sevana and ati madya sevana etc.
Behavioral Factors: Responsible behavioral factors for the obesity are diwaswapna
(day sleep), achintana (lack of thinking), avyayama (lack of exercise) lack of
meditation and self discipline.
Hereditary Factors: In addition to above factors hereditary factors also play an
important role in development of medoroga.
Inadvertent Therapeutic Application: Injudicious use of some of the therapeutic
measures i.e. Santarpana and Brimhana may also give rise to obesity.
Etiopathogenesis of Medo Roga:
Disease review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 43
Nidana sevana
Mandaagni and production of ama
Circulating ama
Nourishement of medadhatu
Conversion of madhura anna in to meda and sneha
Meda dhatu increased in erxess due to over nourishement
Srotoavarodha due to excessive accumulation of meda vata increses
agni increses
Medoroga increased appetite
Samprapti ghataka of Medoroga:
On the basis of various references the Samprapti Ghataka of Medoroga are illustrated
below:-
Dosha: Vata-Kapha pradhana tridoshaja
Kapha:Adhika
Vata (vyana & samaana)- Tama
Pitta (Pachaka) – Tama
Dushya: Rasa, Meda, Majja, Shukra, Oja.
Agni: Jatharagni – Teekshna, Dhatvagni - mandya
Disease review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 44
Ama: Dhatvagnimandyajanya.
Srotasa: - Rasavaha, Medovaha, Mamsavaha, Udakavaha, Swedavaha.
Srotodushti: Sanga
Adhisthana: Medodhara kala, vapavaha
Udbhavasthana: Amashaya
Vyakta sthana: Sphik, stana, udara
Sanchara sthana: Rasayani
Swabhava: Chirakari
Clinical features of Medoroga as mentioned by Charaka,Sushruta and
Madhava112, 113, 114:
Sl no Clinical features C.S. S.S M. N.
1. Chala Spik, Sthana, Udara + - +
2. Ayurhasa + - +
3. Javoparodha + - -
4. Krichravyavayata + + +
5. Dourbalya + - +
6. Dourghandhyata + + +
7. Swedadhikyata + + +
8. Atikshudha + + +
9. Atipipasa + + +
10. Atinidra - + +
11. Krathana - + +
12. Gadgadhatwa - + +
13. Soukumarata - - +
Table 2.1 Clinical features of medoroga according to different authors
Disease review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 45
Complications Medoroga 115, 116:
Some of the common complications of Medo Roga are Prameha, Prameha, Pidika,
Bhagandara, Pandu, Kamla, Kotha, Granthi, Galganda, Sotha, Mutra Krichchhra,
Vidradhi, Visarpa, Jwara, Atisara, Arsha, Sleepada, Apachi, Madhumeha, Arbuda and
several Vata vikaras.
According to the concepts of Dalhana, the Vata vikara associated with Medoroga
occurs due to deposition of Meda in the Srotasa (Avritta marga). Such a phenomenon of
Avritta marga occurring in the circulatory system may be considered analogous to
atherosclerosis which leads to several cardiovascular and cerebro-vascular diseases (Vata
Vikara).
Management of Medo Roga 117, 118:
Avoidance of causative factors.
Use of drugs which alleviates Vata, Kapha and Meda in the form of food.
Use of lekhana basti.
Use of drugs having rookshana and chhedana qualities such as Shilajatu, Guggul,
gomutra, Triphala, Yavan, Madhu, Rasanjana, Mugda, Koradoshaka, Shyamaka,
Uddalaka, Lauha Bhasma etc and
Change in the life style performance of Prajagarana, Vayama, may cause removal
of Medo Roga.
These acts on the basis of reduction of formation and accumulation of Medo Dhatu.
Disease review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 46
LIPIDS
Simple lipids Compound lipids Derived lipids
Triglycerides PhospholipidsWaxes
Lecithin
Glycolipids Others
Cephalins
Sphingomyelins
Steroids Fatty acids
Plasmogens
BASIC CONCEPT OF LIPIDS
Lipids are substances, which are actual or potential esters of fatty acids and insoluble in
water but soluble in hot alcohol, ether, benzene, petroleum ether and acetone119.
Classification of lipids 120, 121:
I. Simple lipids: Esters of fatty acids with alcohols.
(a) Triglycerides (Triacylglycerols): These are the esters of fatty acids with
glycerol. Ex: Omental fat, adipose tissue fat, subcutaneous fat in man and
animals, butter fat variable edible oils.
(b) Waxes: These are the esters of fatty acids with alcohol other than glycerol.
In human body commonest waxes are the cholesterol esters. They are most
abundant in the blood, suprarenal glands, the gonads and the sebaceous glands
of the skin.
II. Compound lipids: These are compounds made up of alcohol, fatty acids and some
other substances like phosphoric acids, choline etc.
(a) Phospholipids: Esters containing phosphoric acid and a nitrogenous base
i.e. lecithin, cephalin.
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Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 47
(b) Glycolipids: Esters containing a carbohydrate and a nitrogenous base i.e.
cerebrosides.
(c) Others: It includes other compound lipids like Sulpholipids which are
esters containing sulphuric acid.
III. Derived lipids: They are compounds which are derived from lipids or precursors
of lipids.
(a) Fatty acids: These are the constituents of all classes of lipids. They contain
C, H & O. They are carboxylic acids and can be represented by the
formula CH3 (CH2)nCOOH.
(b) Steroids: These are the derivatives of complex ring system called
“cyclopentanoperhydrophenanthrene” ring system. Cholesterol, ergosterol,
bile acids, sex hormones, adrenal cortical hormones and the D-vitamin are
some of the important sterol derivatives.
Physiological classification of lipids 122:
The lipids of the body are some times divided in to two groups,
1. Element constant
2. Element variable
1. Element constant: Lipids of this group are made up of that fraction of the body lipid
which is required principally for formation of the cell membrane of the animal cell.
This fraction is not sharply altered in amount by starvation or overfeeding.
Phospholipids fall in this category.
2. Element variable: This is that fraction of lipids which are reduced in quantity
during starvation, because they under go catabolism to provide energy. Conversely by
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Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 48
overfeeding, the element variables amount in the body can be increased. Triglycerides
in the depot fat are element variable.
Fat depots 123, 124:
For storing energy our body uses either glycogen or triglycerides. However
our body can store a maximum of about 500gms of glycogen, while there is no ceiling
for how much triglyceride can be stored.
These stored energies can act as fuels which are ultimately used as ATP.
While 500gms of glycogen can supply our energy requirements for only few hours,
the stored fat can look after the needs of the body for weeks or even months together.
About 12% of the total body weight of a man consists of fat. It is stored in the
body in certain sites known as fat depots.
As storage material fat has many advantages,
Per gram triglycerides yields 9kcal of energy where as glucose yields 4kcal.
Fat occupies minimum space.
It is comparatively light weight.
It can be stored in the body as almost 90% pure form.
It regulates body temperature.
It provides mechanical protection against injury.
Composition of Depot fats:
Depot fat is chiefly composed of mixed triglycerides. Trace of lecithin and
cholesterol, as well as a little amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids.
Distribution of fat in body tissue:
(i) Subcutaneous tissue -50% (ii) Peripheral tissue - 15%
(iii) Mesentery - 20% (iv) Omentum - 10%
(v) Intramuscular connective tissue- 05%
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Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 49
Plasma lipids 125:
Although the lipids are present in both body cells and plasma of blood, but the
composition of lipids in plasma and cells widely vary. Since, the composition of
plasma lipids accurately reflects the actual state of lipid metabolism, so the
composition of plasma lipids is generally studied.
Main plasma lipids:
I. Cholesterol and its esters II. Triglycerides
III. Phospholipids IV. Non-esterified fatty acids
Normal serum lipid values:
Lipid Values(in mg/100ml)
Cholesterol 140-220
Triglycerides 50-150
Phospholipids 150-300
Free fatty acids 5-15
Table 2.2 showing normal serum lipid values
I. Cholesterol 126, 127:
The cholesterol means “solid alcohol from bile”. It is so called as it was first
isolated from gall stones.
The Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like compound that belongs to a class of
molecules called steroids. It has a molecular formula C27H45OH. It possesses
“Cyclopentanoperhydrophenanthrene nucleus”. Cholesterol is made primarily in liver
(about 1,000 milligrams a day), but also by cells lining the small intestine and by
individual cells in the body.
It exist in two forms in our body,
Free cholesterol: Where the –OH group remains free.
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Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 50
Cholesterol ester: Where the –OH group at C3 is esterified with a fatty acid.
Cholesterol is an important component of biomembranes. Cholesterol is
present in plasma either as free form or esterified. Bile has high concentration of
cholesterol and so bile serves as the major excretory route for cholesterol.
Occurrence:
It is widely present in the body tissues; cholesterol is found largest amounts in
normal human adults.
Brain & Nervous Tissue - 2%
In the Liver - 0.3%
Skin - 0.3%
Intestinal mucosa - 0.2%
Certain endocrine glands Viz - adrenal cortex contains -10% or more Corpus
leutiem is also rich in cholesterol. Cholesterol is present in blood and bile usually a
major constituent of Gall Stones.
Sources:
Exogenous: Dietary cholesterol approximately 0.3gm/day. Diet rich in cholesterol are
butter, cream, milk, egg yolk, meat etc.
Endogenous: The cholesterol obtained by endogenous synthesis.
Biosynthesis of Cholesterol:
Average diet supplies about 0.5 gram cholesterol a day. Another 0.5 gram is
synthesized in the body. The liver and the intestine are the principle sources for blood
cholesterol and synthesize about 1.5 gram each day. Other tissues which synthesize
cholesterol are adrenal cortex, gonads, skin, and intestine. Low order of synthesis
occurs in adipose tissue, muscle, aorta and nervous tissues. Brain of the new born
baby can synthesize the cholesterol while adult brain cannot synthesize the
cholesterol.
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Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 51
Cholesterol synthesis occurs in the cytoplasm and microsomes from the two-
carbon acetate group of acetyl-CoA. The process has following steps,
1. Formation of acetyl-CoA: A molecule of acetic acid is activated by combining with
coenzyme A. The reaction requires energy from breakdown of ATP and is catalyzed
by the enzyme acetyl-coA synthetase.
2. Formation of acetoacetyl-CoA: Two molecules of acetyl-coA condense to form an
acetoacetyl-CoA molecule.
3. Formation of HMG-CoA: The acetoacetyl-CoA now condeses with one more
molecule of acetyl-CoA to form beta-hydroxy, beta methyl glutaryl-Coa(HMG-CoA).
The enzyme which mediates this reaction is called HMG-CoA reductase.
4. Formation of Mevalonic acid: HMG-CoA is reduced by an NADPH+ H+
depending reductase to form mevalonic acid
5. Formation of isopentenyl pyrophosphate: Mevalonic acid now becomes isopentenyl
pyrophosphate, IPP. IPP becomes dimethylallyl pyrophosphate, DPP. IPP as well as
DPP are both isoprenoid units, each having 5C structures.
6. Formation of squalene: One IPP and DPP unit unite with each other to form geranyl
pyrophosphate(GPP) unit which is a 10C structure. GPP now combines with another
IPP to form a fernesyl pyrophosphate, FPP. FPP is a 15C structure. Nextly, two FPP
units combine with each other to produce squalene (a 30C structure).
7. Squalene becomes cholesterol: squalene is hydroxylated and cyclized to become
cholesterol.
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Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 52
Showing the Biosynthesis of Cholesterol:
Acetic Acid + Co-A
Acetyl Co-A synthetase + ATP+Mg++
Actyle Co-A (2mol)
Condensing enzyme
Aceto acetyl Co-A
Acetyl Co-A HMG Co-A synthatase
HMG-Co-A
HMG Co-A reductase
Mevalonic acid
ATP
Isopentenyl pyrophosphate (I.P.P.)
2 mol. I.P.P. condense
Geranyl pyrophosphate (G.P.P.)
1 mol. I.P.P. condense with G.P.P.
Farnesyl pyrophosphate (F.P.P.)
2 mol. F.P.P. condense
Squalene
Lanosterol
Demosterol
Cholesterol
Regulation of Cholesterol Synthesis:
1) Cholesterol synthesis is regulated at the HMG – CoA reductase step. During fasting
there is marked decrease in the activity of HMG Co-A reductase which reduces the
synthesis of cholesterol.
2) Cholesterol synthesis is also inhibited by LDL-cholesterol taken up via LDL
receptor.
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Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 53
3) Diurnal variations are also known to occur both in cholesterol synthesis and
reductase activity.
4) Insulin and thyroid hormone increase the reductase activity, whereas glucagons and
corticosteroids decrease the reductase activity.
5) The amount of cholesterol in diet influences in the endogenous synthesis of
cholesterol and when dietary intake of cholesterol is raised the endogenous hepatic
production of cholesterol falls.
6) Intra luminal concentration of bile acids regulates the intestinal synthesis (Dietschy
et al, 1970). While the absorption of biliary cholesterol limit the rate of hepatic
cholesterol synthesis (Grundyet al, 1969).
7) Substitution of poly-unsaturated and mono-unsaturated fatty acids (naturally
occurring oils) for some of the saturated fatty acids in the diet lowers the blood
cholesterol level.
Factors that Influence Cholesterol Level in the Blood:
Dietary Fats - Increased intake of fats in the diet increases the level of cholesterol
by increased synthesis. Greater amount of saturated fatty acids increases
cholesterol level. Substitution in the diet of saturated fatty acids by poly
unsaturated fatty acids has beneficial effect and lowers the cholesterol levels.
Dietary Cholesterol - Increased feeding of cholesterol in diet decreases
endogenous synthesis and reduces cholesterol level.
Dietary Carbohydrates - Increased consumption of carbohydrates increases
cholesterol levels. Consumption excessive amount of sucrose and fructose cause
increase in plasma lipids particularly Triglycerides and Cholesterol. When ratio
between starch: Sucrose is 1:4, an increase in plasma cholesterol is observed.
Calorie Intake - Intake of excess calories increases cholesterol level
Disease review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 54
Blood Groups - Cholesterol level found to be slightly higher in the persons
belonging to blood group ‘A & ‘AB’.
Heredity - Heredity factors play greatest role in determining individual blood
cholesterol concentrations. Persons, who are prone to become obese, have a high
level of plasma cholesterol
Vit-B-Complex - Nicotinic acid in large doses has cholesterol lowering effect.
Pyridoxine deficiency produces increase in cholesterol level.
Mineral - In vitro acetate to cholesterol conversion in tissue cell culture depressed
by addition of vanadium and iron salts and increased by chromium and manganese
salts. Conversion of mevalonate to cholesterol is inhibited by vanadyl So4.
Physical Exercise - Hard physical exercise brought about lowering in serum
cholesterol level and increased level of HDL Cholesterol.
Dietary Fibres - Increased fibres in the diet caused an increased excretion of
cholesterol and bile acids in feces.
Functions of Cholesterol:
Structural component of cell membrane.
Acts as precursors in biosynthesis of bile acids. Control cell permeability.
Protects the red cells from being easily haemolysed.
Prevent toxins from entering into the cells.
It is also needed for synthesis of Vitamin-D to form cell membrane.
It helps in the synthesis of steroid hormones of sex glands in adrenal cortex and
synthesis of vitamins.
Cholesterol helps in the synthesis of myelin sheath of nerves and acts as insulator
for nerve impulses.
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Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 55
In human being 60-70% cholesterol is transported by LDL, 20-30% by HDL and
5-10% by VLDL.
Degradation of cholesterol:
Majority of cholesterol present in our body are converted in to bile acids (cholic
acid and allied substances) and it enters the bile acid pool. It is eventually
removed by GI tract.
Some cholesterol enters in to composition of bile, enters intestine and eventually
eliminated by GI tract mostly as corposterol and cholesterol.
Some cholesterol is taken up by endocrine glands (like adrenal cortex/gonads) and
is converted into steroidal hormones, eliminated via urine as steroid glucuronoids.
II. Triglycerides 128:
Triglycerides are esters of three fatty acids and glycerol. They are divided in to
two types according to fatty acid contents.
1. Simple - in which all three fatty acids are same.
2. Mixed - in which all three fatty acids are different.
They are transported primarily as chylomicrones and VLDL but in minor amounts
as LDL and HDL also. They are main form of lipid storage in men.
III. Phospholipids 129:
The major types of body phospholipids are lecithins, cephalins and sphigomyelins.
Phospholipids always contain one or more fatty acid molecules and phosphoric acid
radical and they usually contain a nitrogenous base. Although the chemical structure
of phospholipids are some what variant, their physical properties are similar because
they are all lipid soluble, transported in lipoproteins, and used throughout the body for
various structural purposes, such as for use in cell membranes and intracellular
membranes.
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Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 56
Specific uses of phospholipids:
They are an important constituent of lipoprotein in the blood and are essential for
the formation and function of most of these in their absence, serious abnormalities
of transport of cholesterol and other lipids can occur.
Thromboplastin, which is needed to initiate the clotting process, is composed mainly
one of the cephalins.
Large quantities of sphingomyelin are present in the nervous system; this
substance acts as an insulator in the myelin sheath around nerve fibers.
Phospholipids are donors of phosphate radicals when they are needed for different
chemical reactors in the tissues.
Perhaps the most important of all the functions of phospholipids are participation
in the formation of structural elements mainly membranes within the cells thought
body.
IV. Non-esterified fatty acids (Free fatty acids) 130:
These are basic units of fats. Fatty acids are monocarboxylic acid ranging in
chain length from 6 – 24 carbon atoms. In human body free fatty acids are formed
only during metabolism due to hydrolysis of fat. They are very small fraction in
plasma protein.
Fatty acids can be classified as,
1. Saturated fatty acids: They contain no double bond.
Examples: Palmetic acid, Stearic acid.
2. Monounsaturated fatty acids: They contain only one double bond.
Examples: Oleic acid
Disease review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 57
3. Poly unsaturated fatty acids: They contain 2, 3 and 4 double bonds.
Examples: Linoleic acid, linolenic acid and arachiodonic acids having 2, 3 and 4
bonds respectively.
Plasma lipoproteins 131, 132:
These are the complex formed by the union of plasma lipids and plasma proteins. The
proteins of lipoprotein are called Apolipoproteins.
Lipids are insoluble in plasma but the lipoproteins are soluble in plasma. Thus as
lipoproteins, the lipids can be transported via plasma.
Thus, the two major functions of plasma lipoproteins are,
i. They are the vehicles for lipid transport and
ii. Via lipoproteins, the different lipids are delivered to different tissues.
Classification of lipoproteins:
(a) Chylomicrons
(b) VLDL
(c) LDL
(d) HDL
(a) Chylomicrons:
Chylomicrons are mainly of intestinal origin and their quantity is increased in
plasma following a fatty meal. The plasma becomes opalescent. They are rapidly
taken up from blood by the adipose tissue, heart and skeletal muscle. Lipoprotein
lipase or clearing factor hydrolyzes the lipids of Chylomicrons (and the VLDL) and
helps their passage in to the tissue cells.
Characteristics of Chylomicrons:
They have a lowest density and largest size.
They contain protein 2% and lipid 98%.
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Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 58
In Chylomicrons lipids are mainly triglycerides.
(b) VLDL (Very low density lipoproteins):
The bulk of VLDL is secreted by the liver in a manner similar to Chylomicrons by the
intestines.
Characteristics of VLDL:
They are of very low density, but heavier than Chylomicrons.
They contain 10% protein and 90% lipids.
In VLDL, lipids are mostly triglycerides, but cholesterol and phospholipids are
also present in good quantities.
(c) LDL (Low density lipoproteins):
LDL are a product of degradation of VLDL and Chylomicrons. This fraction is rich in
cholesterol and is taken up by all cells and metabolized.
Characteristics of LDL:
They are of very low density, but heavier than VLDL.
They contain 20% protein and 80% lipids.
In LDL most abundant lipid is cholesterol.
(d) HDL (High density lipoproteins):
HDL are synthesized by and secreted by the intestine as well as liver.
HDL content of plasma decreases if there is an increase in plasma triglycerides.
Characteristics of HDL:
They have a heaviest density.
They contain about 40% protein and about 60% lipids. In HDL, most abundant
lipid is phospholipids but cholesterol is present in good amount.
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Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 59
Characteristics of lipoprotein:
Table 2.3 showing Characteristics of lipoprotein
Fat digestion and absorption 133:
The term fat means lipids i.e., triglycerides, conjugated lipids like
phospholipids, cholesterol. Most of the foods are in the form of triglycerides.
Cholesterol and phospholipids account for only a minor fraction of food.
Composition Chylomicrons VLDL LDL HDL
Protein % 1-2 7-10 18-22 45-55
Lipid % 99 93 80 50
Major lipid Triglyceride Triglyceride Cholesterol Phospholipids
Cholesterol
Diameter(nm) 80-500 30-100 21.5 7.5-10.5
Mg/100ml
plasma
100-250 130-200 210-400 100-150
Function Transport
Exogenous
Triglycerides
Transport
Endogenous
Triglycerides
Transport of
cholesterol and
phospholipids to
peripheral cells
Proposed to
transport
cholesterol from
peripheral cells to
liver.
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Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 60
Digestion and absorption of triglycerides:
Triglycerides
Digestion in oral cavity by lingual lipase less than10%
Emulsification by bile salts, lecithin, monoglycerides & fatty acids
Surface area of triglycerides increased
Action of pancreatic lipase
2 fatty acids + 1 monoglyceride
Dissolves in micelles of bile acid
Soluble in chyme
Comes in contact with brush border of the enterocyte
Fatty acids & monoglycerides diffuse in to enterocyte of cell membrane
leaving micelles behind
Fatty acid with long chain combines Fatty acid with shorter chain
with Fatty acid binding protein
Triglyceride molecule Absorbed in to portal venous
blood route
Enters in blood
Non esterified fatty acids of
plasma
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Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 61
Digestion and absorption of cholesterol 134:
Major sources of cholesterol in the intestine are food and cholesterol of the
bile. While some of such cholesterol is in free form and much of the cholesterol is
ester cholesterol.
Cholesterol ester
Action of cholesterol ester hydrolase
Free cholesterol + fatty acids
Free cholesterol combines with micelles
Enter in to enterocyte
Free cholesterol is esterified with fatty acid
Cholesterol ester
Enter in to lymph
Cholesterol and lipoprotein metabolism 135,136:
Exogenous Pathway:
Exogenous lipid transport begins with intestinal incorporation of dietary
triglycerides and cholesterol into large lipoprotein particles called chylomicrons
(diameter, 80-500nm) which are secreted into the lymph and subsequently enter the
blood stream. When chylomicrons reach the capillaries of adipose tissue and muscle,
they are digested by an enzyme lipoprotein lipase, which is bound to the surface of the
endothelial cells. Lipoprotein lipase hydrolyzes the triglycerides in the core of the
chylomicrons, and the liberated fatty acids cross the endothelium and enter the
underlying adipocytes or muscle cells, they are then either esterfied again to form
triglycerides for storage or oxidized to provide energy.
After most of the triglycerides have been removed in this fashion, the
chylomicron dissociates from the capillary endothelium and enters the circualtion
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Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 62
again. Its size has been reduced and its content of triglycerides diminished, but its
cholesterol esters remain intact. The particle is now designated as a chylomicron
remnant (diameter 30-50nm). When the remnant reaches the liver it is cleared from
the circulation by a receptor that recognizes two of its protein components,
apoproteins E and B-48. The receptor bound remnant is taken into the hepatic cell by
a process termed receptor mediated endocytosis. Within the cell the remnant is
digested in lysosomes, and the cholesterol esters are cleaved to generate free
cholesterol. The free cholesterol has several fats: it can be used for membrane
synthesis, it can be stored by the liver cell as cholesterol esters, it can be excreted into
the bile either as cholesterol or after conversion to bile acids, or it can be used to form
endogenous lipoproteins that are secreted into plasma.
Endogenous Pathway:
Endogenous lipid transport begins when the liver secretes triglycerides and
cholesterol into the plasma in very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDL: diameter, 30-
80nm.). The major stimulus for such secretion is a high-calorie intake (especially a
high - carbohydrate intake), which induces the liver to assemble triglycerides for
export and storage in adipose tissue. The Triglycerides of VLDL are cleaved in
capillaries by the same lipoprotein lipase that digests chylomicrons. Digestion
produces a VLDL remnant that is designated as intermediate-density lipoprotein
(IDL; diameter, 25-35nm.). After release from the endothelium, the IDL particles
have two metabolic fates. Some of the particles are cleared rapidly by the liver, again
by receptor-mediated endocytosis. The receptor that acts on the IDL particle is called
Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) receptor. It binds lipoproteins that contain
apoprotein E or B-100 and it therefore interacts with both IDL and LDL particles.
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Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 63
About half of the IDL particles are not cleared rapidly by the liver. Rather
they remain in the circulation, where most of the remaining triglycerides are removed,
and the density of the particle increases further, until it becomes LDL (diameter 18 -
28 nm). LDL circulates for a relatively long time in man (half-life of about 1.5days).
The particles are eventually degraded by binding to LDL receptors in liver and certain
extra hepatic tissues. Circulating LDL constitutes the major reservoir of cholesterol
in human plasma, accounting for 60-70% of the total. When liver or extra hepatic
tissues require cholesterol for the synthesis of new membranes, steroid hormones or
bile acids, they synthesize LDL receptors and obtain cholesterol by receptor mediated
endocytosis of LDL. Conversely, when tissues no longer require cholesterol for cell
metabolic purposes, they decrease the synthesis of LDL receptors.
Reverse Cholesterol transport:
As cells of the body die and as cell membranes undergo turnover, free
cholesterol is continually released into the plasma. This cholesterol is immediately
absorbed into high-density lipoproteins (HDL; diameter, 5-12nm.) and in this location
it is esterified with a long - chain fatty acid by an enzyme in plasma, lecithin;
cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT). The newly formed cholesteryl esters are rapidly
transferred from HDL to VLDL or IDL particles by cholesterol from transfer protein
in plasma. The HDL promote the removal of cholesterol from the peripheral cells and
facilitates its delivery back to the liver is referred to as reverse cholesterol transport.
This transport is facilitates by the synthesis and secretion of apoprotein E by
peripheral tissues.
In addition to degradation by specific receptors, lipoproteins are also disposed
of by less specific pathways, some of which operate in macrophages and other
scavenger cells. When the plasma concentration of a lipoprotein rises, the rate of its
Disease review…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 64
degradation by such pathways increases. This contributes to deposition of cholesterol
in macrophages of arterial walls (producing atheromas) and macrophages of tendons
and skin (producing xanthomas).
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Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 65
Hyperlipidaemic Condition:
Hyperlipidaemia and hyperlipoproteinaemia are synonyms. It is the condition
when the concentration of one or more plasma lipoproteins exceeds the upper limit of
normal level.
Hyperlipidaemia:
The definition of normal limits is inevitably an arbitrary process and values
will vary according to the locality, sex distribution and age of the population studies.
Statistical definitions based on upper 5 or 10% of the distribution of plasma lipid
levels within a population are often used. Hyperlipidaemia is a rise in plasma
cholesterol and triglycerides. Both hyperlipidaemia and hypertriglyceridaemia appears
to be the important risk factor for atherosclerosis.
It is classified as primary and secondary hyperlipoproteinaemia137.
Primary hyperlipoproteinaemia is due to autosomal dominant or recessive genetic
defects or more commonly, to interaction between weaker polygenic influences and
environmental factors such as diet.
Secondary hyperlipoproteinaemia, on the other hand, result from the physiological
derangements which accompany certain disease status like nephritic syndrome,
diabetes or the ingestion of certain hormones, drugs an chemicals including alcohol.
Causes of secondary hyperlipidaemia:
Secondary hypercholesteramia:
Moderately common: Hypothyroidism
Cholestatic liver diseases
Pregnency
Drugs (diuretcs, steroids, androgens)
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Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 66
Less common: Nephrotic syndrome
Anorexia nervosa
Hyperparathyroidism
Secondary triglyceridemia:
Common: Diabetes mellitus Chronic renal disease
Abdominal obesity Drugs (β blockers, corticosteroids)
Excess alcohol
Hyperlipoproteinaemia 138:
Fredrickson et al, (1967) proposed five types based on change in plasma lipoproteins.
These are enlisted in the tabular format.
Table 2.4 showing Fredrickson’s classification of hyperlipoproteinemias
Of the above hyperlipoproteinemias, type II is most common. Type IV is also fairly
common. Type I, III, and V are rare
Type
Lipoprotein
abnormality
Plasma levels of
Cholesterol Triglycerides
Associated factors
I Chyclomicrons increased
Increased Increased Occurrence rare. Lipoprotein lipase is deficient.
II LDL Increased Increased Increased or normal
Occurrence common. Associated with xanthomata and ischemic heart disease.
III LDL and HDL Increased
Increased Increased Rare occurrence. Xanthomata present.
IV VLDL increased
Increased or Increased normal
Excessive synthesis of lipid from carbohydrate. Occurrence common.
V VLDL & chyclomicrons increased
Increased Increased Uncommon occurrence. Associated with ketotic diabetes.
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Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 67
Atherosclerosis 139, 140, 141:
Atherosclerosis is defined by WHO as variable combination of focal
accumulation of lipids, complex carbohydrates, blood and constituents, fibrous tissue
and calcium deposits combined with its changes of the media. Atherosclerosis is thus
a patchy, nodular type of arteriosclerosis.
Atherosclerosis may protrude into and obstruct vascular lumina, weakens the
underlying media and may undergo serious complications.
Atherosclerosis overwhelmingly contributes to more mortality, approximately
half of all deaths and serious morbidity in the western world than any other disorder.
Coronary artery disease is an important manifestation of atherosclerosis and
myocardial infarction alone is responsible for 20% to 25% of all deaths in the United
States.
Classification:
The lesion of an Atherosclerosis is commonly classified as
Fatty streaks: form the earliest lesions of atherosclerosis. They may be reversible
and appear early in life, particularly in the aorta. They are characterized by
accumulation of lipid-filled smooth muscle cells, macrophages and fibrous tissues in
focal areas of the intima.
Fibrous plaques: These are elevated areas of intimal thickening and represent the
characteristic lesion of atherosclerosis. They appear first in the abdominal aorta,
coronary and carotid arteries. They consist of a central core of extra cellular lipid and
necrotic cells, macrophages and collagen.
Complicated lesions: These are classified fibrous plaques with various degrees of
necrosis, thrombosis and ulceration. These lesions commonly produce symptoms of
ischemia.
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Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 68
Risk factor for atherosclerosis:
Major risk factor:
(a) Non modifiable (b) Potentially controlable
Increasing age Hyperlipidaemia
Male gender Hypertension
Family history Cigarette smoking
Genetic abnormalities Diabetes
Minor risk factor:
Obesity
Physical inactivity
Stressful life
Hormones (Estrogen deficiency, oral contraceptive pills)
High carbohydrate intake
Infection (C. Pneumoniae, Herpes virus, CMV)
Materials and methods…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 69
MATERIALS AND METHODS
The study was designed under the following heading,
1) Preparation of the drug.
2) Physicochemical and Preliminary phytochemical analysis of Chitraka.
3) Experimental study.
1) Preparation of the drug
a) Source of drug:
The genuine quality roots of Chitraka (Plumbago zeylanica) were purchased from
Kajarekar pharmacy, Belgaum. Botanist and other experts verified the root and its
identification were confirmed.
b) Purity, Identity and Strength:
For knowing the Purity, identity, strength and genuinity of the crude drug, it was
subjected to physicochemical tests according to the API (Ayurvedic Pharmacopeia of
India) standards and was confirmed.
c) Drying and Powdering :
The work was carried at Pharmacy of Shri D. G. M Ayurvedic Medical College, Gadag.
i) The drug was subjected to powdering using pulverizer and 20 number sieves were used
to get coarse powder of Chitraka. Then the powder was stored in air tight container.
ii) Fine powder of Chitraka was prepared using 120 number sieves and was stored in
airtight container.
d) Preparation of Extracts:
Alcoholic extraction procedures of Chitraka were carried out in the PG dept of
Dravyaguna, Shri D. G. M Ayurvedic Medical College, Gadag.
Materials and methods…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 70
Alcohol extract:
Hot continuous extraction method was followed using soxhlet apparatus to get the
alcohol extract of Chitraka. Then the powdered drug held in porus bag or a “thimble”
made up of strong filter paper is placed in the sample chamber of the soxhlet. The
suitable solvent is taken in a round bottom flask and the apparatus is assembled. When
the mixture of the drug and the solvent is heated in a heating mantle, its vapours get
condensed in the condenser and drip on the thimble containing the crude drug, extracting
it by contact. When the level of the liquid in the sample chamber rises to the top of the
siphon tube, the liquid siphons into the flask, this process is continuous and is done until
drug is exhausted. Then the extract is collected and solvent is removed under water bath.
The extract thus obtained was stored in the glass bottle, sealed and kept in refrigerator.
2) Physicochemical analysis of Chitraka 142:
a) Determination of Foreign matter:
Materials: Sample & physical balancer.
Procedure:
100-500 g. of drug sample to be examined was spread in a thin layer.
The foreign matter was detected by inspection with the unaided eye or the use of lens.
Foreign matter was separated and weighed.
Percentage of foreign matter present in air dried drug was calculated.
b) Determination of Total ash:
Materials: Silica crucible, physical balance, desiccators, electric bunsen burner & air
dried drug.
Materials and methods…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 71
Method:
The clean and dry crucible was weighed. Accurately weighed 2 gms of drug was
taken and placed in this crucible and this was kept in electric bunsen burner.
Temperature was gradually increased up to 500º C until white colored ash was
obtained, including the absence of carbon, cooled in desiccators and weighed.
If carbon free ash is not obtained in this manner, then the crucible was allowed to cool
and the residue was moistened with about 2ml of water or a saturated solution of
Ammonium nitrate R. Dried on water bath, then on a hot plate and ignited to constant
weight. Residue was allowed to cool in suitable desiccators for 30 minutes and then
weighed without delay.The content of total ash in mg per gm of air-dried material was
calculated.
c) Determination of Acid insoluble ash:
Materials: Physical balance, crucible, electric bunsen burner, desiccators, air dried drug
and ash less filter paper.
Method:
To the crucible containing the total ash, 25 ml of diluted Hydrochloric acid was added
and covered with a watch glass and boiled gently for 5 minutes. The watch glass was
rinsed with 5 ml of hot water and this liquid was added to the crucible and filtered. The
insoluble matter on an ash less filter paper was collected and washed with hot water until
the filtrate was neutral.
The filter paper containing the insoluble matter was transferred to the original crucible
and dried on a hot plate and subjected to constant heat.
Materials and methods…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 72
The residue was allowed to cool in suitable desiccators for 30 minutes and then
weighed again.
The content of acid insoluble ash in mg per gram of air-dried material was calculated.
d) Determination of Alcohol soluble extractive:
Materials: Physical balance, powdered air dried drug, glass stopper conical flask, ethyl
alcohol, vacuum filter, hot plate, water bath, beaker and desiccators.
Method:
Accurately weighed 4gm of coarsely powdered air dried drug was placed in a glass
stopper conical flask.Macerated with 100ml of ethanol for 6 hours shaking frequently
.Then allowed to stand for 18 hours.
Filtered rapidly taking care not to lose any solvent.
25ml of the filtrate was taken in a tarred flat-bottomed dish and evaporated to dryness
on a water bath.
Dried at 105oC for 6 hours and cooled in a desiccators for 30 minutes and weighed
without delay. The content of alcohol extractable matter in mg/g of air dried drug was
calculated.
e) Determination of Water- soluble extractive:
Materials: Powdered air-dried drug, physical balance, glass stopper, conical flask, water,
reflux condenser, filter paper, water bath, beaker and desiccators.
Method:
Accurately weighed 5gms of coarsely powdered air- dried material was placed in a
glass stopper conical flask.
Materials and methods…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 73
This was macerated with 100 ml of water and weighed to obtain the total weight
including the flask.
The flask was shaken well and allowed to stand for 24 hours.
The flask was attached to a reflux condenser and boiled gently for one hour, cooled
and weighed and readjusted to the original weight by adding water. This was filtered
rapidly through a dry filter.
25 ml of the filtrate was transferred to a tarred flat bottomed dish and evaporated to
dry on a water bath.
This was dried at 105oC and cooled in desiccators for 30 minutes and weighed without
delay. The content of water extractable matter in mg / gm of air-dried material were
calculated.
Preliminary Phytochemical investigations of Chitraka:
Qualitative chemical tests were conducted for aqueous, alcoholic and chloroform
extracts of Chitraka (Plumbago zeylanica) to identify the various Phyto constituents. The
various tests and reagent used are given below and observations are recorded.
Place of work: Preliminary phytochemical investigations of Chitraka were carried out at
at Biogenics, Research and Training Center in Biotechnology, Hubli.
Material:
Drug: Aqueous, Alcoholic & Chloroform extractive sample of Chitraka (Plumbago
zeylanica)
Equipments: Test tube, holder, stand, spirit lamp, pipette, glass rods, beaker 50 ml to
250 ml, conical flask, water bath.
Materials and methods…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 74
Methods:
1) Test for carbohydrates:
Benedict’s test: Test solution when treated with Benedict’s regent and boiled on
water bath if it shows reddish brown precipitate.
Molisch test: To the 2ml of sample, 2 drops of Molisch reagent is added and mixed
carefully, rundown the concentrated H2SO4 along the walls of tubes carefully. The
purple violet color at the junction of two layers is observed.
Barfoed’s test: Test solution treated with Barfoed’s reagent on boiling water bath
shows brick red precipitate.
2) Test for Alkaloids:
Mayer’s test: Test solution treated with Mayer’s reagent (Potassium mercuric
iodide) gives cream precipitate.
Wagner’s test: Test solution treated with Wagner’s reagent (Iodine in potassium
iodide) gives brown precipitate.
Dragendroff’s test: The filtrate when added with few drops of Dragendroff’s
reagent gives orange red color.
3) Test for Proteins:
Million’s test: Sample solution is added with million’s reagent and heated on a
water bath; protein is stained yellow on warming.
Ninhydrin test: To 1ml of test solution add 5drops of Ninhydrin solution and boil
for 2 minutes.Voilet or purple colored solution indicates the presence of amino
acids and proteins.
Materials and methods…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 75
4) Test for tannin:
Ferric chloride test: Test solution treated with few drops of ferric chloride
solution gives dark color.
5) Test for Glycosides
Conc. H2SO4 test: 1ml of conc. H2SO4 solution was added to the 1ml of solution
and was allowed to stand for 2 minutes. Formation of reddish color indicates
presence of glycosides.
6) Test for Flavonoids:
Alkaline reagent test: Test solution when treated with sodium hydroxyl solution
shows increase in the intensity of yellow color which becomes colorless on addition
of few drops of dilute acid.
Lead acetate solution: Test solution with few drops of lead acetate solution
(10%) gives yellow precipitate.
7) Test for saponins:
Foam test: Sample solution mixed with saponins and shaken, if there is
formulation of stable forth for one minute it indicates the presence of saponins.
8) Test for sterols:
Salkowaski test: A few drops of concentrated sulphuric acid was added to the 5
ml of sample solution (extract) shaken and allowed to stand and observed the lower
layer. If it turns to red indicates the presence of sterols.
Liebermann Burchard test: The test solution treated with few drops of acetic
anhydride and mixed well. When conc. Sulphuric acid is added from the sides of
the test tube, it shows a brown ring at the junction of the two layers and upper layer
turns green.
Materials and methods…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 76
Identification by T.L.C
Drug: Extraction of sample (Aq, Alc & pet. ether) which is treated with 1:10ml solute;
solvent like ethyl alcohol with dilution method.
Equipment: Silica gel, TLC kit, hot air oven, standard glass, wattaman glass plate,
beakers, sprayer.
Chemicals: Dragendroff’s reagent, Silica gel, ethyl alcohol.
Method: T.L.C. of the ethyl alcohol extract, aqueous extract, petroleum ether extract of
the sample was carried out as follows.
The silica gel powder mixed with water and made thin slurry, and then with the
help of glass slide, the silica gel was spread on glass plates uniformly. After some times
the air dried plate were kept in a hot oven at 110-1200 C. The samples were loaded on
one end of the plate with the help of capillary tubes, leaving 5 cm from the edge. The
spots were carefully done without allowing them to spread. The spots were air dried and
the spotted plate was gently immersed in presaturated closed, TLC chamber for
development. The development was stopped when solvent front reached to 3/4th of the
plate. The plate was then removed from TLC chamber and the solvent front was
immediately marked with a pencil line. Then the plate was air dried and observed under
UV transilluminator to note the fluorescing spots. Then Dragendroff’s solution is sprayed
on the plates.
Rf value of the spots were found out by using the formula,
Rf = Distance traveled by the solute
Distance traveled by the solvent
Materials and methods…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 77
3) Experimental study
Place of work:
The study was conducted in PG cum Research center Shri D. G. M Ayurvedic
Medical College, Gadag
Source of animals:
The required number of Healthy albino rats of either sex were selected for
experimental study and maintained in the animal house. In PG cum Research center Shri
D. G. M Ayurvedic Medical College, Gadag.
Examination of the animals prior to the experiment:
All the Wister albino rats were subjected to general check up for sex and weight.
The animals with abnormal behavior and ill health were excluded.
Preparation of animals:
The animals were randomly selected, marked with picric acid to permit individual
identification and kept in their cages for one week prior to dosing to allow for
acclimation to the lab condition.
Data collected prior to experiment:
Data were collected prior to the experiment regarding:
Toxicity study
Aboutfixation of the therapeutic dose
Toxicity study:
LD50 of the alcoholic extract of seeds was more than 1000mg/kg ip in albino rats.
(Sharma et al 1978)
50% ethanol extract of roots showed hypothermic and antagonism to
Materials and methods…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 78
amphetamine hyperactivity in mice. The LD50 of the extract in the albino mice was
500mg/kg ip. (Bhakuni et al 1969)
Plumbagin administered intramurally and orally at 2mg/kg decreased tumor
growth by 70% and 60% respectively in rats with methylcholanthrene induced tumors. Its
ED50 was 0.75mg/kg. plumbagin was active against p388 lympholytic leukaemia at
4mg/kg and showed antibacterial and antifungal activity against a wide variety of bacteria
and fungi. (I. J. exp. Boil. 1980, 18, 876)
Dose fixation in rat:
Dose was calculated individually based on body weight of the rat. The 1/10th of
the LD 50 of alcoholic extracts of Chitraka considered as the therapeutic dose of the
experiment. The suitable dose for rat was calculated by referring the table of Paget and
Barnes 143.
The antiallergic properties of the 70% ethanol extract from Plumbago zeylanica
stems (EPZ) were investigated. The extract (500, 1000 mg/kg, p.o.) dose-dependently
inhibited systemic anaphylactic shock induced by compound 48/80 in mice, reduced
homologous passive cutaneous anaphylaxis and skin reactions induced by histamine or
serotonin in rats, significant differences were observed at the dose of 1000 mg/kg.
Central nervous system stimulatory action from the root extract of Plumbago
zeylanica in rat: The effects of a 50% ethanol extract of the root of Plumbago zeylanica
(P. zeylanica) were investigated on locomotor behaviour and central dopaminergic
activity in rats. The effects on the ambulatory behaviour were assessed along with the
levels of dopamine (DA) and its metabolite homovanillic acid (HVA) in the striatum after
a single oral dose (100, 200 and 300 mg/kg body weight) of the extract. The extract
Materials and methods…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 79
significantly increased the spontaneous motility in animals. The ambulatory and rotatory
behaviour in the treated groups were higher than in the control group (p < 0.05). There
were marked differences in the ambulatory behaviour between 100 and 300 mg/kg,
indicating that the responses were stimulatory and dose-dependent. The stereotypic
behaviour which is characteristic of a dopamine agonist showed biphasic effects.
However, there was no significant difference between the groups (p > 0.05). The results
showed that the extract of the root of P. zeylanica specifically enhanced the spontaneous
ambulatory activity without inducing stereotypic behaviour. The neurochemical
estimations revealed elevated levels of DA and HVA in striatum compared with the
control rats (p < 0.01). The levels were higher for the 100 mg/kg treated group than the
other groups. The levels declined by increasing the dosage of the extract to 200 mg/kg
and 300 mg/kg, however, these levels remained higher than the control group. The
relationship between motor activity and levels of dopamine are not parallel. These
behavioural and biochemical results indicated stimulatory properties of the extract of the
root of P. zeylanica, which may be mediated by dopaminergic mechanisms in the rat
brain. (C. P. Bopaiah, N. Pradhan, Phytotherapy research volume 15, Issue 2, pages 153-
156)
Pilot Study:
A pilot study was conducted to determine the therapeutic dose of alcoholic extract
of Chitraka as there were no model experimental studies and standards or prior literature
was available for the study.
Materials and methods…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 80
Acute toxicity study for alcoholic extract:
In the first schedule the alcoholic extract of Chitraka was administered to a group
of 2 albino rat at the dose of 500mg/kg body weight orally and this dose not caused death
of any animal. Then the dose was gradually increased up to 2000mg/kg and 5000mg/kg
body weight. Even at this dose also death of animal was not noticed. According to OECD
guild lines 420, 1/10 of this dose was considered as safe dose for albino rat.
Calculation of dose:
Standard drug:
Atorvastatin
Dose: 5.5 mg/ kg ip
Test drugs:
i) Alcohol extract:
Dose: 200mg/kg/day/p.o
ii) Chitraka churna:
Human dose for therapeutic use according to API is 1-2gm.
On conversion to rat dose referring the table of Paget and Barnes.
Rat dose = Human dose X 0.018
= 2000mg X 0.018
= 36mg/200gm or 180mg/kg
Mode of Administration:
The test drugs in a suspension formed in water and vehicle to control were
administered according to the body weight of the animals by oral route with the help of
no.3 gastric catheter sleeved onto a syringe. The test drugs (Alcohol extract and churna of
Materials and methods…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 81
Chitraka), standard drug (Atorvastatin) was administered once daily. The control group
rats were fed with plain distilled water
Vehicle for the administration of drug:
Alcoholic extracts and Chitraka churna were administered by making the
suspensions with distilled water.
Feeding schedule:
Quantity of food suggested for rats’ weighing about 150 – 200 grams is about
15 – 20grams/day was provided. Ready made feed prepared by Gold Mohur rat
laboratory animal, Gold Mohur food and feeds ltd. Pirojshahnagar, eastern express
highway, vikhroke east, Mumbai 400079, sold by “Shri Venkateshwara enterprises, No
4303, 13th main, 2nd cross, subrahmanya nagar, Bangalore-21 was procured and used.
Maintenance:
All the animals were maintained at animal house of Shri D. G. M Ayurvedic
Medical College, Gadag, under identical conditions of place, light, temperature, food and
other conditions. All the cages were used to be washed with detergent followed by
disinfectant phenol solution to maintain the hygiene. After cleaning the cages, the
bedding material was prepared using paddy husk and it was changed daily
Experimental protocol:
To study the hypolipidemic effect of Chitraka on albino rats of either sex,
glucocorticoid induced hyperlipidaemia model was selected,
Procedure:
Hydrocortisone sodium succinate (10mg/kg ip) was administered for 2 weeks to 4
group of animals i.e., for group 2 – 5, for induction of hyperlipidaemia. One group of
Materials and methods…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 82
animal was administered saline and served as normal. After 2 weeks the animals in
different groups i.e., group 3 -6 received treatment for 4 weeks.
After 4 weeks of treatment, the blood was drawn; serum was separated and
analyzed for blood glucose and blood lipid levels. The samples of liver and aorta tissues
were excised out immediately after sacrifice, cleaned of extraneous tissue, cut into pieces
of 3-5 mm thickness and transferred to 10% formalin solution. The samples were sent for
histo-pathological study.
Protocol of experimental study:
Sample: 36 albino rats of either sex are selected randomly and grouped in to 6 groups
consisting of 6 animals in each group.
Inclusive criteria: Healthy albino rats weight – 180 – 230gms.
Exclusive criteria: Other wise does not full fill above condition.
Sl. No Group Study
1. Normal control Vehicle only
2. Hyperlipidemic control Hydrocortisone sodium succinate (10mg/kg/day i.p)
3. Trial group - A Alcoholic extract of Chitraka (200mg/kg/daily, p.o)
4. Trial group - B Churna of Chitraka (180mg/kg/daily, p.o)
5. Standard group Atorvastatin (5.5mg/kg/day, i.p)
6. Trial group - C Chitraka churna to normolipid rats (180mg/kg/daily, p.o)
Table 3.1 showing the protocol of experiment
Study duration: 6 weeks
Statistical analysis: The data collected were statistically analyzed by using ANOVA
followed by Tokey-Kramer multiple comparison test with the consultation of
biostatistician.
Observations & Results…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 83
OBSERVATIONS AND RESULTS
In this section the observations and results are recorded under following headings,
Results of physicochemical analysis.
Observations made during the preparation of the drug.
Results of phytochemical analysis.
Observations and results of Thin layer chromatography (TLC).
Observations and results of pilot study.
Statistical and schematic analysis of the data pertaining to the experiment in
respect of normal control, hyperlipidaemic control, standard drug treated and test drug
treated groups.
Comparison of results within each group and in between the groups.
Results of physicochemical analysis:
The prepared coarse powder of Chitraka (Plumbago zeylanica) was undertaken
for physicochemical analysis and the following results were noted.
Sl.
no.
Test Values %
w/w
Standard values
(API)
1 Foreign matter 1.26% Not more than 3%
2 Total ash 2.65% Not more than 3%
3 Acid –insoluble ash 0.55% Not more than1%
4 Water soluble extractive 16% Not less than 12%
5 Alcohol soluble extractive 15% Not less than 12%
Table 4.1 showing the Physico chemical values of Chitraka
Result of analysis: The sample is confirmed to API standards with respect to above tests
and hence the sample can be declared as of ‘Standard quality’.
Observations & Results…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 84
Observations regarding preparation of drug:
Preparation of Chitraka churna:
The dried, cleaned roots of Chitraka weighing 4 kgs was procured, then 4 kgs of
drug was subjected to coarse powdering under 20 number mesh and 4 kgs of dry drug
yielded 3.75kgs of coarse powder.
The other 500 gms of drug was subjected to fine powdering under 120 number
mesh and yield was 300gms of fine powder.
1 kgs of course powder was used to prepare the alcohol extract and remaining
kept unused in airtight container.
Observations during preparation of alcohol extract:
By appropriate technique the coarse powder of Chitraka was filled in the round
fold of filter paper i.e. in thimble in sauxhlet apparatus. So that it cannot obstruct any
path ways of sauxhlet apparatus and uniform temperature is maintained.
During each batch, the cycles were continued up to extractive factors of the
powder were get completely extracted in to the solvent, then and then only every batch
was stopped. It was observed that it took around 30 cycles for complete extraction.
After extraction solvents were distilled off.
Liquid extraction taken off was concentrated on hot water bath until it became
semisolid.
1 kg coarse powder of Chitraka yielded 140 gms of (14%) alcohol extract, which
was thick in consistency, dark brownish colored with characteristic smell and pungent
taste. When alcohol extract was mixed with water the color of the mixture was brownish
Observations & Results…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 85
in appearance.
Observations of prepared Chitraka churna:
The fine powder of Chitraka prepared using 120 number mesh was brown in color
with pungent taste and irritant odor.
Results of phytochemical analysis:
Sl. No.
Tests Aqueous ext.
Alcoholic ext.
Chloroform ext.
1. Test for carbohydrates
a) Molisch’s test
b) Benedicts test
c) Bradford’s test
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
-
2. Test for proteins
a) Ninhydrin test
b) Millon’s test
-
+
-
+
-
+
3. Test for alkaloids
a) Mayer’s test
b) Dragendroff’s test
c) Wagner’s test
+
-
-
+
+
+
-
+
-
4. Test for glycosides
a) Conc. Sulphuric acid test
+
+
+
5. Test for tannin
a) Ferric-chloride test
+
+
-
6. Test for flavonoids
a) Alkaline magnet test
b) Lead acetate solution test
+
+
-
+
-
+
7. Test for saponin
a) Foam test
+
-
-
8. Test for steroids
a) Salkowaski test
b) Libermann Burchardt test
-
-
+
+
+
+
Observations & Results…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 86
Table 4.2 showing phytochemical analysis of Chitraka
Observations of Thin layer chromatography (TLC):
One gram of the Chitraka sample was refluxed with water, alcohol and petroleum
ether (20ml) for an hour and filtered. The extracts were used for the analyses.
The Silica gel slurry was spread on glass plates uniformly with the help of glass
slide.
The samples were spotted with the help of capillary tubes carefully, without allowing
spreading. A space of 2cm was maintained between each spot.
The chromatogram developed by the ascending technique. Development was
allowed to proceed until the solvent front has traveled the 3/4th distance.
First, plate was observed under UV transilluminator to note the fluorescent spots.
Then Dragendroff’s solution is sprayed on the plates.
The distance traveled by the solvent front was noted to be12.2cm. Rf value of the
spots were then found out by using the formula
Rf = Distance traveled by the Solute
Distance traveled by the solvent
Observations & Results…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 87
Results of TLC:
Stationary phase: Silica Gel G
Mobile Phase: Butanol: Acetic acid: water (4:1:5).
Detection: 312 nm and Drangendroff’s reagent.
Table 4.3 Results of TLC
Sl.
No
Plumbago
zeylanica Linn
Sample+solvent
TLC
plate
system
Detector Rf
Values
Spot
colour
Result
1
2
3
4
5
6
Water extract
Alcohol Extract
Petroleum ether
extract
Water extract
Alcohol Extract
Petroleum ether
extract
Silicagel
G
Silicagel
G
Silicagel
G
Silicagel
G
Silicagel
G
Silicagel
G
Ultra violet
(312 nm)
Drangendroff’s
reagent
0.188,
0.655,
0.696
0.662
No bands
0.655
0.696
0.672
Fluoresce
nt green
Fluoresce
nt green
--
Orange
Orange
Orange
Present
Present
Absent
Present
Present
Present
Observations & Results…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 88
PLATE –4 @ 312 nm
@ Drangendroff’s reagent
Observations & Results…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 89
Observations and results of the Pilot study:
Acute toxicity study of alcohol extract of Chitraka:
In the first schedule, groups consisting of 2 albino rats in each, received drug at
the dose of 500 mg and 1000 mg/kg body weight orally in single dose and no death was
seen during observation (even after 12 days).
In the second schedule groups consisting of 2 albino rats in each received drug at
the dose of 2000 mg and 3000 mg/kg body weight orally in single dose, did not show any
death during observation time period (even after 12 days).
Third schedule consisted 5000mg/kg body weight given orally and it also did not
cause any death of animals in that group.
Though 5000mg/kg body weight given orally did not cause any death of animals,
still we decided to consider the 1/10 of 2000 mg as the safe dose for albino rat according
to OECD guild lines 420.
Observations & Results…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 90
Results of the experiment:
Master Chart
Groups SN
Mark Lipid levels(Mg/dl) TC TG HDL-C LDL-C VLDL-C
Serum glucose (Mg/dl)
1 Head 89.5 120 40.5 22 24 62.8 2 Body 96.3 115 42.8 30.5 23 65.1 3 Tail 87.1 106.8 39.3 26.44 21.36 59 4 Rt ft lb 90.5 110 41.2 27.3 22 64 5 Rt hd lb 106 125 36.7 44.3 25 56
1.Normal control (G1)
6 Lt hd lb 79 104.7 37.2 21 22.8 66.5 1 Head 140.5 155.3 31.5 77.9 31.06 79.6 2 Body 138.3 148 31.8 76.9 29.6 81.2 3 Tail 122.7 130 33.4 63.3 26 78.5 4 Rt ft lb 143.3 160.5 30.8 80.4 32.1 77.9 5 Rt hd lb 130 143.3 29.5 71.84 28.66 88
2.Hyperlipi
demic control (G2)
6 Lt hd lb 151.7 183.3 32.4 82.64 36.66 85.5 1 Head 108.4 123.8 38.4 57.2 27.2 67.5 2 Body 118.7 114.7 36.6 57.8 24.2 70.3 3 Tail 109.2 124.5 33.35 50.95 24.9 69 4 Rt ft lb 113.8 120.6 34.8 54.88 24.12 72 5 Rt hd lb 110.3 108 33.7 51.3 25.3 75
3.Alcohol extract treated (G3)
6 Lt hd lb 102.3 130 40.5 53 26.3 66 1 Head 119.3 121.1 34.3 57.64 27.3 66.3 2 Body 120.2 123.5 32.9 64.66 27.64 68.5 3 Tail 115.3 142 31.7 69.4 28.4 70.5 4 Rt ft lb 120.8 130.7 35.6 59.06 26.14 71 5 Rt hd lb 113.9 120.7 34.3 53 26.6 65.8
4.Chitrak churna treated (G4)
6 Lt hd lb 115.7 129.5 38.1 51.7 25.1 66 1 Head 108.7 112.9 38.7 44.21 24.5 70.8 2 Body 111.9 120.2 37.5 48.45 25.94 72 3 Tail 105 112.7 39.89 39.48 25.72 69.7 4 Rt ft lb 99.5 119.7 35.3 40.28 23.92 71.5 5 Rt hd lb 120.25 106.2 40.9 52.09 22.8 73.3
5.Standard drug (G5)
6 Lt hd lb 110.9 103.8 36.3 50 24.6 68.5 1 Head 90.4 123.6 40.8 24.88 24.72 60.8 2 Body 86.7 104.8 39.5 26.24 20.96 64
6.Chitraka churna to
normolipid 3 Tail 95.8 120.9 43.3 28.32 24.18 62
Observations & Results…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 91
4 Rt ft lb 103.5 127.3 38.7 39.34 25.46 58 5 Rt hd lb 111.2 125 38.6 47.6 25 59 6 Lt hd lb 89.5 111.7 41 26.16 22.34 61
Table 4.4 showing master chart
Parameter 1.1- Total cholesterol
Table 4.5 showing the values of Total cholesterol (Mg/dl) of all the groups of rats
Samples Normal control
(G1)
Hyper lipid control
(G2)
Alcohol extract
(G3)
Chitrak churna
(G4)
Standard drug (G5)
Chitraka churna to
normolipid (G6)
1 89.5 140.5 108.4 119.3 108.7 90.4 2 96.3 138.3 118.7 120.2 111.9 86.7 3 87.1 122.7 109.2 115.3 105 95.8 4 90.5 143.3 113.8 120.8 99.5 103.5 5 106 130 110.3 113.9 120.25 111.2 6 79 151.7 102.3 115.7 110.9 89.5
Table 4.6 Summary of Data
S.L.No
Groups Samples Mean Standard Deviation
Standard Error of Mean
Median
1 Normalcontrol (G1) 6 91.4 9.098 3.714 90.00 2 Hyperlipidcontrol(G2) 6 137.75a 10.196 4.163 139.4 3 Alcohol extract (G3) 6 110.45*** 5.504 2.247 109.75 4 Chitrak churna (G4) 6 117.53** 2.914 1.190 117.50 5 Standard drug(G5) 6 109.37*** 6.971 2.846 109.8 6 Chitraka churna to
normolipid (G6) 6 96.183 9.458 3.861 93.1
a P < 0.001 compared with normal
*** P < 0.001, ** P < 0.01 compared with hyperlipidaemic control.
Graph 1
Mean values of Total cholesterol of all groups
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
Group 1
Group 2
Group 3
Group 4
Group 5
Group 6
Observations & Results…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 92
Table 4.7 ANOVA Table
S.L.No
Source of variation
Degree of freedom
Sum of squares
Mean squares
F Value
1 Treatment 5 8178.5 1635.7 2 Residuals 30 1817.8 60.595 3 Total 35 9996.3 26.994
Results:
Administration of hydrocortisone to rats had produced an extremely significant
(P<0.001) increase in the levels of cholesterol (137.75 ± 4.16).
Alcoholic extract of Chitraka (110.4 ± 2.2) and standard drug treated (109.3±
2.8)) groups had high significantly reversed these variations.
Chitraka churna (117.5 ±1.19) had medium significantly reversed these variations.
Parameter 1.2 – Triglyceride
Table No 4.8 showing the values of Triglyceride (Mg/dl) of all the groups of rats
Samples Normal control
(G1)
Hyperlipid control (G2)
Alcohol extract
(G3)
Chitrak churna
(G4)
Standard drug (G5)
Chitraka churna to
normolipid (G6)
1 120 155.3 123.8 121.1 112.9 123.6 2 115 148 114.7 123.5 120.2 104.8 3 106.8 130 124.5 142 112.7 120.9 4 110 160.5 120.6 130.7 119.7 127.3 5 125 143.3 108 120.7 106.2 125 6 104.7 183.3 130 129.5 103.8 111.7
Observations & Results…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 93
Table No. 4.9 Summary of Data
S.L.No
Groups Samples Mean Standard Deviation
Standard Error of
Mean
Median
1 Normalcontrol (G1) 6 113.58 7.89 3.22 112.5 2 Hyperlipidcontrol(G2) 6 153.4a 18.03 7.36 151.65 3 Alcohol extract (G3) 6 120.27*** 7.83 3.19 122.2 4 Chitrak churna (G4) 6 127.92** 8.08 3.3 126.5 5 Standard drug(G5) 6 115.8*** 6.27 2.56 116.25 6 Chitraka churna to
normolipid (G6) 6 118.89 8.76 3.58 122.25
a P < 0.001 compared with normal
*** P < 0.001, ** P < 0.01 compared with hyperlipidaemic control.
Graph 2
Mean values of Triglyceride of all groups
TableNo 4.10 Anova Table
S.L.No
Source of variation
Degree of freedom
Sum of squares
Mean squares
F Value
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
Group 1
Group 2
Group 3
Group 4
Group 5
Group 6
Observations & Results…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 94
1 Treatment 5 6539.2 1307.8 2 Residuals 30 3152.6 105.09 3 Total 35 9691.7 12.445
Results:
Administration of hydrocortisone to rats had produced an extremely significant
(P<0.001) increase in the levels of triglycerides. (153.4±7.36)
Alcoholic extract of Chitraka (120.27± 3.19) and standard drug treated (115.3±
2.56) groups had high significantly reversed these variations.
Chitraka churna (127.9 ±3.3) had medium significantly reversed these variations.
Parameter 1.3 - HDL-C
Table No 4.11 showing the values of HDL-C (Mg/dl) of all the groups of rats
Samples Normal control
(G1)
Hyper lipid control
(G2)
Alcohol extract
(G3)
Chitrak churna
(G4)
Standard drug (G5)
Chitraka churna to
normolipid (G6)
1 40.5 31.5 38.4 34.3 38.7 40.8 2 42.8 31.8 36.6 32.9 37.5 39.5 3 39.3 33.4 33.35 31.7 39.89 43.3 4 41.2 30.8 34.8 35.6 35.3 38.7 5 36.7 29.5 33.7 34.3 40.9 38.6 6 37.2 32.4 40.5 38.1 36.3 41
Table No. 4.12 Summary of Data
S.L.No
Groups Samples Mean Standard Deviation
Standard Error of
Mean
Median
1 Normalcontrol (G1) 6 39.617 2.361 0.963 39.9 2 Hyperlipidcontrol(G2) 6 31.567 a 1.34 0.546 31.65
Observations & Results…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 95
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
Group 1
Group 2
Group 3
Group 4
Group 5
Group 6
3 Alcohol extract (G3) 6 36.883*** 1.508 0.615 36.7 4 Chitrak churna (G4) 6 35.567** 1.379 0.563 35.25 5 Standard drug(G5) 6 38.083*** 2.123 0.866 38.1 6 Chitraka churna to
normolipid (G6) 6 37.517 1.155 0.471 37.75
a P < 0.001 compared with normal
*** P < 0.001, ** P < 0.01 compared with hyperlipidaemic control
Graph 3
Mean values of HDL-C of all groups
TableNo 4.13 Anova Table
S.L.No
Source of variation
Degree of freedom
Sum of squares
Mean squares
F Value
1 Treatment 5 231.61 46.321 2 Residuals 30 86.920 2.891 3 Total 35 318.53 15.987
Results:
Administration of hydrocortisone to rats had produced an extremely significant
(P<0.001) decrease in the levels of HDL-C. (31.56±0.54)
Alcoholic extract of Chitraka (36.8± 0.61) and standard drug treated (38±0.86)
groups had high significantly reversed these variations.
Observations & Results…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 96
Chitraka churna (35.56±0.56) had medium significantly reversed these variations.
Parameter 1.4 – LDL-C
Table No 4.14 showing the values of LDL-C (Mg/dl) of all the groups of rats
Samples Normal control
(G1)
Hyper lipid control
(G2)
Alcohol extract
(G3)
Chitrak churna
(G4)
Standard drug (G5)
Chitraka churna to
normolipid (G6)
1 22 77.9 57.2 57.64 44.21 24.88 2 30.5 76.9 57.8 64.66 48.45 26.24 3 26.44 63.3 50.95 69.4 39.48 28.32 4 27.3 80.4 54.88 59.06 40.28 39.34 5 44.3 71.84 51.3 53 52.09 47.6 6 21 82.64 53 51.7 50 26.16
Table No. 4.15 Summary of Data
S.L.No
Groups Samples Mean Standard Deviation
Standard Error of Mean
Median
1 Normalcontrol (G1) 6 28.67 8.38 3.422 26.87 2 Hyperlipidcontrol(G2) 6 75.49 a 6.99 2.837 77.4 3 Alcohol extract (G3) 6 56.19*** 4.32 1.764 55.274 4 Chitrak churna (G4) 6 59.24** 6.79 2.77 58.35 5 Standard drug(G5) 6 45.75*** 5.23 2.13 46.33 6 Chitraka churna to
normolipid (G6) 6 32.09 9.26 3.78 27.28
a P < 0.001 compared with normal
*** P < 0.001, ** P < 0.01 compared with hyperlipidaemic control
Graph 4
Observations & Results…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 97
Mean values of LDL-C of all groups
TableNo 4.16 Anova Table
S.L.No
Source of variation
Degree of freedom
Sum of squares
Mean squares
F Value
1 Treatment 5 9398.3 1879.7 2 Residuals 30 1486.6 49.552 3 Total 35 10886 37.933
Results:
Administration of hydrocortisone to rats had produced an extremely significant
(P<0.001) increase in the levels of LDL-C. (75.4±2.83)
Alcoholic extract of Chitraka (56.1± 1.76) and standard drug treated
(45.754±2.13) groups had high significantly reversed these variations.
Chitraka churna (59.24±2.7) had medium significantly reversed these variations.
Parameter 1.5 – VLDL-C
Table No 4.17 showing the values of VLDL-C (Mg/dl) of all the groups of rats
Samples Normal control
(G1)
Hyperlipid control
(G2)
Alcohol extract
(G3)
Chitrak churna
(G4)
Standard drug (G5)
Chitraka churna to
normolipid (G6)
1 24 31.06 27.2 27.3 24.5 24.72 2 23 29.6 24.2 27.64 25.94 20.96
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
Group 1
Group 2
Group 3
Group 4
Group 5
Group 6
Observations & Results…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 98
3 21.36 26 24.9 28.4 25.72 24.18 4 22 32.1 24.12 26.14 23.92 25.46 5 25 28.66 25.3 26.6 22.8 25 6 22.8 36.66 26.3 25.1 24.6 22.34
Table No. 4.18 Summary of Data
S.L.No
Groups Samples Mean Standard Deviation
Standard Error of
Mean
Median
1 Normalcontrol (G1) 6 23.02 1.32 0.53 32.9 2 Hyperlipidcontrol(G2) 6 30.68 a 3.6 1.47 30.33 3 Alcohol extract (G3) 6 25.35*** 1.2 0.48 25.1 4 Chitrak churna (G4) 6 26.85* 1.17 0.48 26.95 5 Standard drug(G5) 6 24.58*** 1.16 0.47 24.55 6 Chitraka churna to
normolipid (G6) 6 23.77 1.75 0.71 24.45
a P < 0.001 compared with normal
*** P < 0.001, ** P < 0.01, * P < 0.05 compared with hyperlipidaemic control
Graph 5
Mean values of VLDL-C of all groups
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
Group 1
Group 2
Group 3
Group 4
Group 5
Group 6
Observations & Results…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 99
TableNo 4.19 Anova Table
S.L.No
Source of variation
Degree of freedom
Sum of squares
Mean squares
F Value
1 Treatment 5 230.16 46.032 2 Residuals 30 110.05 3.668 3 Total 35 340.21 12.549
Results:
Administration of hydrocortisone to rats had produced an extremely significant
(P<0.001) increase in the levels of VLDL-C. (30.6±1.47)
Alcoholic extract of Chitraka (25.35±0.48) and standard drug treated
(24.58±0.47) groups had high significantly reversed these variations.
Chitraka churna (26.85±0.48) had less significantly reversed these variations
Parameter 2 - Serum glucose
Table No 4.20 showing the values of Serum glucose level (Mg/dl) of all the groups of
rats
Samples Normal control
(G1)
Hyper lipid control
(G2)
Alcohol extract
(G3)
Chitrak churna
(G4)
Standard drug (G5)
Chitraka churna to
normolipid (G6)
1 62.8 79.6 67.5 66.3 70.8 60.8 2 65.1 81.2 70.3 68.5 72 64 3 59 78.5 69 70.5 69.7 62 4 64 77.9 72 71 71.5 58 5 56 88 75 65.8 73.3 59 6 66.5 85.5 66 66 68.5 61
Observations & Results…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 100
Table No 4.21 Summary of Data
S.L.No
Groups Samples Mean Standard Deviation
Standard Error of
Mean
Median
1 Normalcontrol (G1) 6 62.23 3.97 1.62 63.4 2 Hyperlipidcontrol(G2) 6 81.78 a 4.08 1.66 80.4 3 Alcohol extract (G3) 6 65.8*** 3.49 1.42 69.65 4 Chitrak churna (G4) 6 68.01*** 2.33 0.95 67.4 5 Standard drug(G5) 6 70.96*** 1.7 0.69 71.15 6 Chitraka churna to
normolipid (G6) 6 60.8 2.13 0.87 60.9
a P < 0.001 compared with normal
*** P < 0.001 compared with hyperlipidaemic control
Graph 6
Mean values of Serum glucose of all groups
TableNo 4.22 Anova Table
S.L.No
Source of variation
Degree of freedom
Sum of squares
Mean squares
F Value
1 Treatment 5 1691 338.27 2 Residuals 30 288.24 9.808 3 Total 35 1979.6 35.206
Results:
Administration of hydrocortisone to rats had produced an extremely significant
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
Group 1
Group 2
Group 3
Group 4
Group 5
Group 6
Observations & Results…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 101
(P<0.001) increased in the levels of serum glucose. (81.78±1.66)
Alcoholic extract of Chitraka (65.8±1.42) and standard drug treated (70.96±0.69)
Chitraka churna (68.01±0.95) groups had highly significantly reversed these
variations.
Table 4.23 showing comparison of mean values of lipid levels between normal
control and hyperlipidemic control groups
Graph 7
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
T. Cholest Trigly HDL LDL VLDL
Group 1
Group 2
Table 4.24 showing comparison of mean values of lipid levels in between
hyperlipidemic control and alcoholic extract treated groups.
Groups Cholesterol Triglyceride HDL-C LDL-C VLDL-C
Group 1 91.4 113.58 39.61 28.67 23.02
Group 2 137.75 153.4 31.56 75.49 30.68
Groups Cholesterol Triglyceride HDL-C LDL-C VLDL-C
Group 2 137.75 153.4 31.56 75.49 30.68
Group 3 110.45 120.27 36.8 56.19 25.85
Observations & Results…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 102
Graph 8
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
T. Cholest Trigly HDL LDL VLDL
Group 2
Group 3
Table 4.25 showing comparison of mean values of lipid levels in between
hyperlipidemic control and churna treated groups.
Graph 9
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
T. Cholest Trigly HDL LDL VLDL
Group 2
Group 4
Table 4.26 showing comparison of mean values of lipid levels in between
hyperlipidemic control and standard drug treated groups.
Groups Cholesterol Triglyceride HDL-C LDL-C VLDL-C
Group 2 137.75 153.4 31.56 75.49 30.68
Group 4 117.5 127.92 35.56 59.26 26.85
Groups Cholesterol Triglyceride HDL-C LDL-C VLDL-C
Group 2 137.75 153.4 31.56 75.49 30.68
Group 5 109.37 118.89 37.51 32.09 23.77
Observations & Results…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 103
Graph 10
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
T. Cholest Trigly HDL LDL VLDL
Group 2
Group 5
Table 4.27 showing comparison of mean values of lipid levels in between normal
control and churna to normolipid groups.
Graph 11
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
T.Cholest
Trigly HDL LDL VLDL
Group 1
Group 6
Table 4.28 showing comparison of mean values of lipid levels in between
hyperlipidemic control and alcoholic extract, churna and standard drug treated grp.
Groups Cholesterol Triglyceride HDL-C LDL-C VLDL-C
Group 1 91.4 114.5 39.8 28.6 23.02 Group 6 96.18 118.89 37.51 32.09 23.37
Groups Cholesterol Triglyceride HDL-C LDL-C VLDL-C
Group 2 137.75 153.4 31.56 75.49 30.68
Group 3 110.45 120.27 36.8 56.19 25.85
Group 4 117.5 127.92 35.56 59.26 26.85
Group 5 109.37 118.89 37.51 32.09 23.77
Observations & Results…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 104
Graph 12
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
T. Cholest Trigly HDL LDL VLDL
Group 2
Group 3
Group 4
Group 5
Observations & Results…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 105
Table No 4.29 Mean of all the groups for lipid levels
Groups Total
Cholesterol
(Mean ± SEM)
Triglyceride
(Mean ± SEM)
HDL-C
(Mean ± SEM)
LDL-C
(Mean ±
SEM)
VLDL-C
(Mean ±
SEM)
Normal control (G1) 91.4±3.71 113.58±3.22 39.617±0.96 28.67±3.42 23.02±0.53
Hyperlipidcontrol(G2 137.7± 4.16a 153.4±7.36 a 31.567±0.34 a 75.49±2.85 a 30.68±1.47 a
Alcohol extract (G3) 110.45±2.24*** 120.27±3.19*** 36.88±0.61*** 56.19±1.76*** 25.35±0.48***
Chitraka churna (G4) 117.53±1.19** 127.92±3.3** 35.567±0.56** 59.24±2.77** 26.85±0.48*
Standard drug(G5) 109.37±2.84*** 115.8±2.56*** 38.083±0.86**.* 45.75±2.13*** 24.58±0.47***
Chitraka churna to
normolipid (G6)
96.183±3.86
118.89±3.58 37.517±0.47 32.09±3.78 23.77±0.71
Values are expressed in mg/dl, a P < 0.001 compared with normal, *** P < 0.001, ** P < 0.01,* P < 0.05 compared
with hyper lipid group. *** Highly significant, **Medium significant, *Less significant.
Observations & Results…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 106
Table No 4.30 Mean of all the groups for serum glucose
Groups Sr. Glucose
(Mean ± SEM)
Normal control (G1) 62.23±1.62
Hyperlipid control (G2) 81.78±1.66 a
Alcohol extract (G3) 65.8±1.42***
Chitrak churna (G4) 68.01±0.95***
Standard drug (G5) 70.96±0.69***
Chitraka churna to normolipid (G6) 60.8±0.87
Values are expressed in mg/dl, a P < 0.001 compared with normal,
*** P < 0.001, compared with hyper lipid group.
*** Highly significant
Observations & Results…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 107
Results of histopathology study of liver and aorta samples:
Results of Liver section:
Group G1 (Normal control): Liver sections of normal control rats showing: normal
hepatic cells with well preserved cytoplasm; well brought out central vein; prominent
nucleus and nucleolus.
Group G2 (Hyperlipidemic control): Liver section showing: massive fatty changes,
accumulation of triglycerides, and broad infiltration of the lymphocytes and kupffer cells
around the central vein.
Group G3 (Alcohol extract): Liver section, showing: well brought out normal hepatic
cells and central vein, prominent nucleus and nucleolus little accumulation of fatty
content.
Group G4 (Chitrak churna): Photomicrograph of liver section, showing central vein
surrounded by hepatocytes with sinusoidal dilatation with accumulated fatty content. No
hepatic necrosis was seen around central vein or in the central zone.
Group G5 (Standard drug): Liver section, showing: well brought out central vein,
hepatic cell with well preserved cytoplasm, prominent nucleus and nucleolus, no
accumulation fatty content.
Group G6 (Chitraka churna to normolipid): Liver section, showing: well brought out
central vein, hepatic cell with well preserved cytoplasm, prominent nucleus and
nucleolus, no accumulation of fatty content.
Observations & Results…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 108
Results of Aorta section
Group G1 (Normal control): The intima is limited by a single layer of flattened
endothelial cells, the middle layer consists of smooth muscle cells and outer most layers
consists of connective tissue surrounding the vessel and normal lumen was found.
Group G2 (Hyperlipid control): Fibrous plagues and fibrosis, plaques showing
calcification and atheromatous or Fibro-fatty plaque.
Group G3 (Alcohol extract): All three layers are normal, normal lumen and diffuse
intima thickening
Group G4 (Chitrak churna): The atheroma is often extensive, with plaques developing
adjacent to the origin.
Group G5 (Standard drug): Fatty streaks, all three layers are normal, normal lumen
was found.
Group G6 (Chitraka churna to normolipid): All three layers are normal, normal lumen
and no accumulation of fatty content was found.
Observations & Results…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 109
Discussion…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 108
DISCUSSION
The present study was carried out to evaluate the hypolipidaemic effect of
Chitraka through experimental study on albino rats. The study is entitled as “Evaluation
of medohara (hypolipidaemic) effect of Chitraka (Plumbago zeylanica Linn.) - An
experimental study.”
About the drug Chitraka:
References of the drug Chitraka could not be traced out in Veda and Purana. It is
extensively used in Samhita kala in the treatement of various diseases. All most all
nighantukaras have also explained Chitraka with a variety of synonyms and its
gunakarma.
Chitraka has got chief synonym as Agni. It is also known with all the names of
fire. This refers towards Ushna veerya and corrosive nature of Chitraka. Some synonyms
of it like Phaati, Vyaala indicates towards it pharmacological actions. Chitraka name it
self indicates the beautiful flowering nature of the plant. This is the only name which
indicates its morphological structure. The synonym of Agni is also applied to few other
dravyas, the properties of which are similar to Agni. They are Bhallataka, Mayooraka,
Ajmoda, Methika etc.
There are differences of opinion regarding types of Chitraka. Vagbhata achaarya
mentioned three types i.e. Peeta which is regarded as yellow flowered, Sita, white colored
and Asita, blue colored type. Raja nighantukara has mentioned two varities of Chitraka
i.e. Shweta and Rakta Chitraka. Rakta Chitraka is considered to be more potent with its
properties than Shweta Chitraka and hence the few synonyms used in this context like
Atideepya, Dipyagni are confirmatory with this statement.
Discussion…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 109
Nowadays three types are available. The white flowered variety is Shweta
Chitraka and found all over India easily. Second red flowered variety i.e. Rakta Chitraka
is obtainable in some parts of India. The third blue flowered; "Neel Chitraka" is very rare.
Shweta Chitraka botanically identified as Plumbago zeylanica, Rakta chitraka as P. rosea
and that of Neela Chitraka as P. capensis.
Rasapanchaka of Chitraka is Laghu, Ruksha and Ushna guna, Katu rasa, Katu
Vipaka and Ushna Veerya. It is regarded as Kapha Vata shamaka by most of the authors.
Kaiyadeva has different opinion regarding this. According to him it has got Tikta and
katu rasa and it is tridoshahara. He further explains that it acts as Kaphahara due to its
Katu rasa, due to Tikta rasa as Pittahara and as Vatahara due to its ushna guna.
Chitraka has got pharmacological actions like lekhana, bhedana, deepana,
paachana etc. So it is widely used in the treatment of Agnimandyajanita diseases like
Medoroga, Arsha, Grahani, Atisara, Udara, Shotha, Kushtha, Gulma, Shwitra etc. Lots of
therapeutic uses of Chitraka in combination with other drugs can be traced Out, but single
drug therapy with Chitraka is very rarely seen.
Several references are suggestive of use of Chitraka in the treatement of
Medoroga. Some of them are as follows,
Chitraka is one among the lekhaneeya dashemani group of drugs explained by
acharya Charak 144.
Sushrutacharya included it under Varunaadi gana, which is indicated for the treatment
of Medoroga 145.
Vangasen indicates Chitraka moola choorna along with madhu in the treatment of
Medoroga 146.
Discussion…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 110
About the disease:
There are no references of a single disease entity that can be directly correlated to
hyperlipidaemia in Ayurveda. Most of the scholars have considered it under the heading
of Medoroga. Hyperlipidaemia is one of the most important risk factors for susceptibility
of coronary heart disease. It is well documented fact that a positive correlation exist
between blood lipid, particularly cholesterol and coronary vascular disease.
Hyperlipidaemia is an important yet modifiable risk factor of all lipid
abnormalities. Studies have shown that a reduction in plasma cholesterol does infact
reduce the risk of myocardial infarction. Overall, 1% reduction in plasma cholesterol
concentration in middle-aged men reportedly results in 2% reduction in the incidence of
coronary heart diseases. Keeping this motto in back ground present study is selected over
hyperlipidaemia.
Phytochemical analysis of Chitraka:
Preliminary phytochemical analysis of Chitraka in different extracts i.e., aqueous,
alcoholic and chloroform were carried. It reveals the presence of carbohydrates, proteins,
alkaloids, glycosides, tannin, flavonoids, saponins and steroids. Chitraka is especially
rich with the flavonoids, tannin, alkaloids and glycosides.
Experimental study:
i) Experimental model:
There are many different experimental models to evaluate the hypolipidaemic
effect of the drugs. Some of them are like Triton induced hyperlipidaemia, Sucrose high
fat diet induced hyperlipidaemia, athero diet and cholesterol induced hyperlipidaemia etc.
Discussion…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 111
For this present study, glucocorticoid induced hyperlipidaemic experimental method was
selected as this method found to be more convenient.
Glucocorticoids are secreted by zona fasciculata cells of adrenal cortex. Several
stimulatory factors are responsible for the release of glucocorticoids. Sudden increase in
the serum cortisol levels causes hyperglycemia, hyperlipidaemia, electrolyte depletion
and hypertension 147.
Glucocorticoid excess is known to evoke plasma lipid elevation but the pattern of
changes appears to vary in several species 148. (Krausz Y, Bar-on H, Shafrir E).
Dexamethasone administration (10mg/kg body weight) is shown to lower the activities of
lecithin cholesterol acyl transeferace (LCAT) and hepatic lipoprotein lipase, there by
increasing triglyceride level, inducing imbalance in lipid metabolism and leading to
hyperlipidaemia in rats 149.(Kaur N.. Sharma N., Gupta A.K.) So this model was selected
to evaluate the hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka in glucocorticoid induced
hyperlipidaemia and hyperglycemic model.
ii) Animal model:
There are references that the rats are regarded as the suitable animal model for the
evaluation of hypolipdaemic activity 150. Therefore rats were selected as the animal
model.
iii) Effective dose:
A pilot study was conducted to determine the therapeutic dose of alcoholic extract
of Chitraka as there were no model experimental studies and standards or prior literature
were available for the study. According to OECD 420 guidelines, the LD50 cut value is
considered as 2000mg/kg body weight and 1/10th of it is considered as safe dose.
Discussion…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 112
Chitraka is having Ushna, Teekshna properties and so its standard dose 151
(according to API) for human being is considered as 1000-2000mg. So taking these
things in to consideration, 1/10th of 2000mg/kg body weight was decided as a safe dose
instead of 5000mg/kg body weight.
iv) Analysis of experimental results:
Albino rats are grouped into 6 groups, containing 6 animals in each group of either sex
weighing between 180-230gms.
Administration of glucocorticoid intraperitonially in albino rats resulted in highly
significant (P<0.001) elevation of cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL-C, VLDL-C, and
reduction in the levels of HDL-C. This establishes the efficacy of the experimental
protocol to induce hyperlipidemic condition.
Significant (P<0.001) elevation of serum glucose levels was also observed in
glucocorticoid administered animals.
Alcoholic extract of Chitraka, Chitraka churna and standard drug treated groups
significantly decreased the levels of cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, VLDL and
increased the levels of HDL as compared to hyperlipidaemic control group.
Though, the fall in serum lipid levels of alcoholic extract of Chitraka was less than
that of standard drug treated group it was statistically non significant (P > 0.05)
Group 4th rats received Chitraka churna after induction of hyperlipidaemia. This was
to intend to compare the effect of Chitraka churna to that of alcoholic extract.
By statistical analysis it is evident that the hypolipidaemic effect of alcoholic extract
of Chitraka was more significant (P<0.001) when compared with that of Chitraka
churna group (P<0.01).
Discussion…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 113
Chitraka churna was administered to the group 6th albino rats with out inducing
hyperlipidaemia with the intension of observing the effect of Chitraka in normolipid
animals.
Slight differences in the lipid levels were observed in between the normal control (G1)
group and 6th group animals, i.e., the group which received Chitraka churna with out
induced hyperlipidemia. But the difference was statistically non significant. (P > 0.05)
Highly significant (P<0.001) reduction in the levels of serum glucose was also
observed in Alcoholic extract of Chitraka, Chitraka churna and standard drug treated
groups when compared to hyperlipidaemic control group.
Probable mode of action of drug:
It is very difficult to explain the exact mode of action of drug. But on the basis of
certain principles and theories, an attempt has been made here to describe the probable
mode of action of Chitraka.
In the present study it has been observed that the effect of alcoholic extract of
Chitraka was more when compared with the Chitraka churna treated group. This may be
because, as the extracts of drugs contain major part of active constituents, it exhibits
quicker and potent action. Size of the particles is also the other factor which influenced
the action of these drugs. ‘Smaller the particle size, greater is the absorption’ is the
general rule of pharmacology. So the size of particles in the extract being much less
compared to churna, it helped in the fast and potent action extract.
According to Ayurveda:
According to Ayurveda, the phamacodynamics of a drug can be evaluated through its
panchabhautic constitution and rasapanchaka.
Discussion…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 114
Chitraka has Vayu, Akasha, Agni mahaabhoota predominance. These are opposite to
gunas of Prithvi and Jala. Hence it will reduce the bhujalaadhika meda 152.
It is having Katu, Rooksha and Teekshna guna, Katu vipaka, Ushna veerya and
Kapha Vatahara property. According to Kaiyadeva it also has got Tikta rasa.
With its Katu, Tikta rasa it facilitates deepana, paachana action and helps in the
correction of medodhatwagnimandya. According to Charaka 153, Katu rasa posses
mamsa lekhan, kaphahara properties and Tikta rasa posses the lekhana, karshana,
rasa, meda, kleda, upashoshana properties. Katu rasa has also got sneha, meda, kleda
shoshana properties 154. These properties may help in curing Medoroga.
With its Rooksha guna, it does rasa shoshana and shodhana and in turn reduces the
over nourished medadhatu. With Ushna guna it does medoshoshana, medodravana
and removes the sanga. Laghu guna of it being opposite to guru guna of meda it helps
in medakshaya. With Teekshna guna it does medachhedana 155.
Ushna veerya and Katu vipaka of Chitraka helps in ama pachana and agni deepana.
This metabolic disease demands "Agnivriddhi", particularly at the level of Meda
dhatvagni. When any agni is not proper, dhatus are not produced properly. Improper
function of agni is the root cause for all disease. Chitraka with its deepana and
pachana action encounters dhatvagnimandya and potentiates the dhatvagnimandhya
and help in ama-pachana, there by alleviates aparipakwa dhatu and ama. That in turn
helps to form the dhatus in proper proportion with samyak qualities. Their by it
ensues Sarvadhatuposhana.
Discussion…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 115
According to modern:
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka probably results from the increased elimination of
cholesterol in the form of bile acids. Recent research has also shown that the animal
with plumbagin excreted more fecal cholesterol and phospholipids 156. Increased
stimulation of bile acid synthesis may lead to an increased utilization of cellular free
cholesterol and thus help in regulation of cholesterol.
A recent study shows that aqueous and alcoholic extracts of Chitraka to possess anti-
oxidant properties and inhibit lipid per oxidation. The presence of polyphenolic
compounds and flavonoids in these extracts of Chitraka may reduce the oxidation of
LDL-c. This may explain the probable mode of action of Chitraka as hypolipidaemic
drug 157. (Tilak Jai C et.)
Probucol, a hypolipidemic drug is a potent lipophilic antioxidant and the ability to
inhibit atherosclerosis has been attributed to its antioxidant properties. The flavonoids
present in Chitraka may be responsible for its antioxidant as well as hypolipidemic
action 158. However, specific experiments need to be designed to validate these
hypotheses.
Scope for future study…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 115
SCOPE FOR FUTURE STUDY
The study was conducted with one experimental protocol i.e glucocorticoid
induced hyperlipidaemic model, other models like Triton induced, Sucrose high
fat diet induced, athero diet and cholesterol induced hyperlipidaemia models can
be tested.
Study can be carried out on transgenic rat models available for screening drugs
for hypolipidaemic activity.
Study can also be carried out on other animal models.
Further Chitraka can be undertaken for clinical research to assess the claim made
on it.
Higher Phyto chemical investigations are required for the confirmatory evaluation
of responsible phyto constituents contributing to hypolipidaemic action.
Chitraka can also be compared with other existing hypolipidemic drugs.
The present study, however, has not investigated the mechanism of
hypolipidaemic action of Chitraka. This should be explored further in future
studies.
Chitraka can also be tested for its possible hypoglycemic effect.
Conclussion…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 116
CONCLUSION
The word Chitraka is not found in Vedic periods but since Samhita Period it has been
used in medicine. Ayurvedic Classics have described wide range of therapeutic
properties of the plant and have indicated in Medoroga, Arsha, Grahani, Udara,
Shoola, Kushta, Meha, Shwitra, Gulma etc.
Chitraka has Katu, Tikta rasa; Katu vipaka; Laghu, Ruksha, Ushna Guna; and Ushna
Veerya.
Botanical source of Chitraka is Roots of Plumbago zeylanica Linn. The root and root
bark of Plumbago species contains Plumbagin, which is therapeutically an important
alkaloiod.
In Ayurveda, there is no direct reference of a single disease entity that can be directly
correlated with the hyperlipidaemia. Most of the scholars have considered
hyperlipidaemia under the heading of Medoroga.
Medoroga is the produced as a result of medodhatvagnimandya and it is Vatakapha
pradhana vyadhi.
The phytochemical studies have revealed that the trial drug Chitraka is rich source of
alkaloids, flavonoids, glycoside and tannin.
Safe doseof alcohol extract is considered to be 200mg/kg body weight in albino
rats. Dose of the Chitraka churna is decided by referring the table of Paget and
Barnes (1964) as 180mg/kg body weight.
The trial drug is found to be free from any sort of side effects or toxic effects during
the experimental study.
Conclussion…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 117
Alcohol extract of Chitraka showed more significant hypolipdaemic effect, when
compared to Chitraka churna.
It was also effective in reducing hyperglycemia, which was also induced by
hydrocortisone.
It also reduced tissue lipid content of liver and regressed atheroma and plaque
formation in aorta.
Chitraka with its deepana & pachana action encounters dhatvagnimandya &
potentiates the dhatvagni. That in turn helps to form the dhatus in proper proportion
with samyak qualities. Their by it ensues sarvadhatuposhana.
Chitraka is an effective hypolipidaemic drug which is established through this
experimental study using glucocorticoid induced hyperlipidaemic experimental
model.
Summary…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 118
SUMMARY
The study entitled “Evaluation of medohara (hypolipidaemic) effect of Chitraka
(Plumbago zeyanica Linn.) - An experimental study” is summarized as follows.
Introduction:
This part reveals the need for the study, aims and objectives and hypothesis
behind selecting test drug and hypolipidaemic model for the present study.
Review of Literature:
Review of Literature is very much essential for the research programmer.
Therefore it includes botanical identity, varieties, micro & macroscopic observations
along with the chemical aspects of Chitraka. The literary review also deals with the
concept of Medoroga and lipids & hyperlipidaemia..
Methodology:
Deals with the preparation of churna and alcohol extracts of Chitraka. It includes
details about materials and methods of phytochemical analysis and the protocol of the
experiment. In the experimental study the drug Chitraka was screened for its
hypolipidaemic activity on albino rats by using glucocorticoid induced hyperlipidaemic
model. In this study 6 groups of 6 albino rats in each group were selected. 1st group
served as normal control, 2nd as hyperlipidaemic control, 3rd group treated with alcoholic
extract, 4th group treated with churna, 5th group treated with standard drug i,e Atorvastatin,
6th group was treated with Chitraka churna with out pre-treatement with glucocorticoid.
Results and observations:
The hypolipidaemic effect in each group was recorded at the end of the study. No
side effects or toxic effects were observed during the period of experimental study.
Summary…
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 119
Observations were recorded and the results were statistically analysed and the
significance was elicited using ANOVA followed by Tokey cramer multiple comparision
test.
Alcoholic extract of Chitraka, Chitraka churna and standard drug treated groups
significantly decreased the levels of cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, VLDL and increased
the levels of HDL as compared to hyperlipidaemic control group.
Chitraka churna administered to normolipid rats did not shown statistically
significant changes when compared to normal control group.
It also reduced tissue lipid content of liver and regressed atheroma and plaque
formation in aorta.
Discussion and conclusion:
The discussion aspect of this work plays a vital role to find out the best usage of
the drug. Including future scope for the study, in all the angles conclusions have been
drawn on this work.
Thus the trial drug Chitraka was found to be an efficacious hypolipidaemic
screened under experimental study using glucocorticoid induced hyperlipidaemic model.
Bibliography...
Hypolipidaemic effect of Chitraka 120
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