Introduction
Tylophora indica (Burm. f.) Merrill, also known as Emetic Swallow Wort, Indian or Country Ipecacuanha, is a plant species belonging to the Asclepiadaceae family.
The leaves of Indian Ipecacuanha are used to treat bronchial asthma and allergic rhinitis. It also exhibits anti-amoebic and anti-tumor properties.
Names and Habitat
It is native to Assam, West Bengal, Orissa, and Peninsular India. In Ayurvedic medicine, it is referred to as Antamuula, Muulini, and Arkaparni, while in Siddha and Tamil traditions, it is known as Nay Palai and Nangilaippiratti.
Traditional Uses Of Indian Ipecacuanha
The leaves of Indian Ipecacuanha are widely used in the treatment of bronchial asthma and allergic rhinitis. Research has shown that the plant contains various alkaloids, including tylophorine, tylphorinine, desmethyltylophorine, and desmethyltylophorinine, as well as a flavonoid called kaempferol.
The root of the plant also yields alkaloids such as tylophorinidine and gamma-fagarine.
Other compounds found in the leaves include tylophorinidine, dsepticine, d-iso-tylocrebrine, triterpenoids alpha-and beta-amyrin, betasitosterol, stigmasterol, campesterol, phenylalanine, and quercetin.
Ceryl alcohol has also been reported to be present in the plant.
Key Components of Indian Ipecacuanha
One of the notable medicinal properties of Indian Ipecacuanha is its anti-amoebic activity. Studies have shown that it is effective against axenic and polyaxenic strains of Entamoeba histolytica, a parasite that causes amoebic dysentery.
In fact, compounds like tylophorine and 4-methoxy-14hydroxytylophorine found in the plant are even more effective than standard drugs like Emetine dihydrochloride and Metroindazole.
Tylophorine specifically has shown efficacy in treating both intestinal and hepatic amoebiasis in test animals. However, due to its high toxicity, it cannot be used in humans.
Anti-tumor Properties of Indian Ipecacuanha
Additionally,Indian Ipecacuanha exhibits anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties. It has shown promise in treating leukemia, particularly desmethyltylophorine. However, it is important to note that the drug may cause irritation in the digestive tract.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Indian Ipecacuanha, also known as Emetic Swallow Wort or Indian Ipecacuanha, is a plant species with various medicinal properties. Its leaves are used to treat bronchial asthma and allergic rhinitis, while its roots contain alkaloids with potential health benefits.
The plant has shown anti-amoebic activity, making it effective against Entamoeba histolytica.
Tylophorine and other compounds found in the plant have also exhibited anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties, showing promise in treating conditions like leukemia. However, its toxicity limits its use in humans.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
What family does Indian Ipecacuanha belong to?
Indian Ipecacuanha belongs to the Asclepiadaceae family.
What are the common names of Indian Ipecacuanha?
The common names of Tylophora indica are Emetic Swallow Wort, Indian Ipecacuanha, Antamuula, Muulini, Arkaparni, Nay Palai, and Nangilaippiratti.
What is Indian Ipecacuanha used for in Ayurvedic medicine?
In Ayurvedic medicine, Indian Ipecacuanha is used in the treatment of bronchial asthma and allergic rhinitis.
What are some of the compounds found in Indian Ipecacuanha?
Indian Ipecacuanha contains alkaloids like tylophorine, tylphorinine, desmethyltylophorine, and desmethyltylophorinine, as well as a flavonoid called kaempferol.
Are there any side effects of using Indian Ipecacuanha?
While Indian Ipecacuanha has medicinal benefits, it can be toxic to humans and cause irritation in the digestive tract.
Can Indian Ipecacuanha be used to treat leukemia?
Yes, certain compounds found in Indian Ipecacuanha, such as desmethyltylophorine, have shown promise in treating leukemia.
Can Indian Ipecacuanha be used to treat other types of cancer?
Further research is needed, but Indian Ipecacuanha has exhibited anti-tumor properties and may have potential in treating other types of cancer.
Where is Indian Ipecacuanha found in India?
Indian Ipecacuanha is native to Assam, West Bengal, Orissa, and Peninsular India.
Are there any other medicinal properties of Indian Ipecacuanha?
Aside from its anti-amoebic and potential anti-cancer properties, Indian Ipecacuanha also exhibits anti-inflammatory activity.
Can Indian Ipecacuanha be used as a natural remedy for asthma?
Yes, Indian Ipecacuanha is commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine for the treatment of bronchial asthma.
Is Indian Ipecacuanha safe for consumption?
Indian Ipecacuanha should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional due to its potential toxicity.
Is Indian Ipecacuanha effective against all strains of Entamoeba histolytica?
Indian Ipecacuanha has shown efficacy against both axenic and polyaxenic strains of Entamoeba histolytica.
Can Indian Ipecacuanha be used in the treatment of liver infections?
Yes, compounds like tylophorine found in Indian Ipecacuanha have shown effectiveness in treating hepatic amoebiasis.
Does Indian Ipecacuanha have any anti-inflammatory properties?
Yes, Indian Ipecacuanha has anti-inflammatory properties and may provide relief for inflammatory conditions.
Are there any precautions to take when using Indian Ipecacuanha?
It is important to exercise caution when using Indian Ipecacuanha, as it is toxic and can cause irritation in the digestive tract.
Can Indian Ipecacuanha be used topically?
While most of the research focuses on the internal use of Indian Ipecacuanha, there may be potential for topical applications. Further research is needed.
What other health benefits does Indian Ipecacuanha have?
Indian Ipecacuanha contains various compounds, including triterpenoids, phenylalanine, and quercetin, which may have additional health benefits.
