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International Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Pharmacy


ISSN Online:2229-3566

ISSN Print: 2277-4343

Article: EFFECT OF SHARAPUNKHA (TEPHROSIA PURPUREA) ON GASTROINTESTINAL SYSTEM

Article Category: Original Research articles

DOI: 10.7897/2277-4343.1105142

Pages: 60-63

Author: Manojkumar *, Sangeeta Gehlot

Abstract: Sharapunkha (Tephrosia purpurea) is one of the important drugs in Ayurvedic system of medicine. The present study was undertaken to find out the action of Sharapunkha (Tephrosia purpurea) on Gastrointestinal System. During the passage of drug through oral route, it is probable that the active principle present in Sharapunkha, might act on gastrointestinal System. Albino rats were used in this study and divided into control and drug treated group. Drug treated group rats were feed with intragastric drug decoction, along with their normal water and food. Water intake, diet intake, weight of rats, gastrointestinal motility and serum bilirubin level were compared. Healthy human volunteers were selected, and prepared drug decoction was given for 7 days. Observations were done based on self-assessment of the volunteers about any significant physiological variation specially related to the G.I. System. After study, it was found that Sharapunkha enhances intestinal motility, decreases serum bilirubin in albino rats. Human volunteers had feeling of increase appetite, easy bowel motion and increase urge for micturition. These facts suggest that some ingredients of Sharapunkha are acting on the smooth muscles of the bowel and urinary bladder. So, it may be presumed that Sharapunkha influences the feeding and satiety center located in hypothalamus. Sharapunkha decoction preparation does influence the activity of the autonomic nervous system with consequent alterations in the functions of gastrointestinal tract and possibly the urinary system.




Keyword: Annavaha Srotas, Koshtha, Mahasrotas, Sharapunkha, Tephrosia purpurea.