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Journal of Drug Delivery and Therapeutics

Open Access to Pharmaceutical and Medical Research

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Open Access  Full Text Article                                                                                                                                            Review Article

Kaiphal (Myrica nagi): A Botanical Origin Drug (Dawa) of Unani Medicine for Prevention and Treatment of Common Disorders 

Kaleem Ahmad1*, Mohd Aleemuddin Quamri2

PhD scholar, department of Moalijat, NIUM, Bengaluru, 560091, India

Prof & HoD, department of Moalijat, NIUM, Bengaluru 560091, India

Article Info:

_____________________________________________

Article History:

Received 24 Aug 2023      

Reviewed 11 Oct 2023

Accepted 28 Oct 2023  

Published 15 Nov 2023  

_____________________________________________

Cite this article as: 

Ahmad K, Quamri MA, Kaiphal (Myrica nagi): A Botanical Origin Drug (Dawa) of Unani Medicine for Prevention and Treatment of Common Disorders , Journal of Drug Delivery and Therapeutics. 2023; 13(11):152-160

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.22270/jddt.v13i11.6293                                           _____________________________________________

*Address for Correspondence:  

Kaleem Ahmad; PhD scholar, department of Moalijat, NIUM, Bengaluru, 560091, India

Abstract

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Myrica nagi is a celebrity medicinal plant that is distributed in sub-Himalayan regions and holds several pharmacological actions and therapeutic effects along with their economic usage. In Unani System of Medicine (USM), it is well known, as Kaiphal and used in the prevention and the management of several common disorders viz. Amraz-i-Riya (Respiratory disease), Amraz-i-Hazam (Gastrointestinal disease), Amraz-i-Aasab (Nervine disease), and Amraz-i-Bawl (genitourinary disease). Recent clinical studies evaluate that the Kaiphal consist of numerous phytoconstituents viz. tannins, flavonoids, phenolic acids, terpenes, glycosides, amino acids, steroids, and volatile oils. These phytoconstituents are responsible for varieties of pharmacological actions viz. Anti-inflammatory, Anti-Oxidant, Anti-Allergic, Anti-helminthic, Neuroprotective, Nephroprotective, Anti-hypertensive, Anticancer, and Anxiolytic. Conventionally, different parts of Kaiphal are used in asthma, allergic disorder, inflammatory diseases, neurological disorders, renal disease, and cancer. The physicians of USM described properties and therapeutics uses of Kaiphal but data on safety and efficacy are limited and also lack of attraction of researcher toward a preclinical and clinical trial. Therefore, this review updated the knowledge about pharmacological and therapeutic effects, ethnomedicinal uses, adverse effects, prevention and treatment of common disorders and also focused on future research in the prospective era.

Keyword: Kaiphal, Myrica nagi, USM, Phytoconstituents, Asthma

 


 

1. INTRODUCTION

Traditional medicine are used to cure almost all ailments of mankind through natural product since the distant past. In present era, herbal medicine attract whole world for prevention and therapeutic measurs of numerous popular disorders at a level of primary health care due to their minimum adverse events and local availibility. According to WHO (World Health Organisation), 80% population daily used traditional medicine including Unani, Ayurveda, Homeopathy, Yoga, Siddha, Persian medicines and Chines medicines 1. Myrica nagi is a plant of myricaceae family and came under genus of Myrica, and approximately 97 species lies in this genus. The plants of this family are native to subtropical and temperate region of the earth 2. Myrica nagi is well known, as Kaiphal, Kathphala and Boxberry and for their medicnal properties in traditional medicine 3. Kaiphal is a medium size dioceous tree upto 15 meter height that habitate in sub-tropical Himalayas 4. Versatile and economical medicinal use of kaiphal make it unique and seek attention of locality as well as researcher 3. The Kaiphal fruits have pleasant taste and edible in several regions of India viz. Meghalaya and sub-Himalayan with their nutritional and therapeutic importence. They are used to manufacture several products likes   syrups, jams, pickles, and refreshing drinks. It also great sources of Vitamin C, and polyphenolic compounds. All parts of this tree viz. fruits, bark, roots, and leaves have their nutritional and therapeutic importance and also used in traditional medicine 3,4. Based on scientific investigation viz. pharmacogonosy and HPTLC (High-performance thin layer chromatography) Kaiphal plant composed of numerous pharmacologically active substances viz. Myricetin, myricanol, myricanone, epigallocatechin myricitrin, myricanol, Myricanone, gallic acid, ethyl β-Dglucopyranoside, 4-methoxybenzoic acid, 3- hydroxybenzaldehyde, isovanillin, β-sitosterol, 4- (hydroxymethyl) phenol, and daucosterol which exhibits properties of anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, antihelmintic, antimicrobial, anxiolytic, Mast-cells stabilizing, antihypertensive, hepatoprotective, antibacterial, antifungal and anti-asthmatic 5,6

USM originated from Greece with their deep scientific and philosophical concept in respect to disease and their management. The concept Sahet (health) and Amraz (disease) based on Nazaria-i-Akhlat (Theory of Humour) given by eminence Unani scholar named Buqrat (Hippocrates). According to him “Human body composed of four types of Akhlat (Humour) viz. Dam (Blood), Balgham (Phlegm), Safra (Yellow bile), and Sauda (Black bile). The health is a state of equilibrium while disease occurs due to imbalance between Akhlat”. To restore health, managed body ailments in such a way that all humour became in equilibrium. For this, the way of management in USM includes Ilaj bi’l-Ghiza (Dietotherapy), Ilaj bi’l-Tadbir (Regimental therapy), Ilaj bi’l-Dawa (Pharmacotherapy), and Ilaj bi’l-Yad (Surgery) 7,8. Ilaj bi’l-Dawa is the most popular one that includes medicine of Nabatat (Plants), Jamadat (Minerals), or Haiwanat (Animal) origin that used in either in Mufrad (single) or Murakkab (Compound) form according to needs 9. In USM, most of the drug came from Nabatat than Zamadat or Haiwanat and parts are uses viz. leaves, flower, fruits, barks, stems, roots and whole plants depends on varieties of plants, availibility of plants, and nature of Amraz. Kaiphal is a well renowned botanical origin drug of USM and its stem bark usually used by physicians since immemorial to prevent and cure numerous kinds of Amraz (diseases) viz. Amraz-i-Dahen (Oral Cavity disease) 10, and Badbu-iDahen (bad breath) 11-17, Amraz-i-Nazam Asab (Central Nervous system) 10,12,17, Amraz-i-Jild (Dermatological disorder) 10-14,17, Amraz-i-Nizam Taam (Gastrointestinal disease) 10,11,13,15,17,  Ear Nose Throat (ENT) disease 11,14,17 Amraz-i-Tanasuliya (Reproductive  disease) 11,17, and Amraz-i-Tanaffus (Respiratory disease) 12,14. The pharmacological properties of Kaiphal described by Unani physician vizMuhalil (Resolvent) 10-20, Qabiz (Astringent) 10,20 Muqawwi-i-Asab (Nerve tonic) 10-15,17,19, Muharrik Asab (Nerve stimulents) 20Daf-e-Taffun (Antiseptic) 10,11,16,18,20, Daf-i-Tasannuj (Antispasmodic) 16,18,20, Daf-i-Istirkha 19, Munaffis (Expectorent) 10,12,13,16Muattis (Sneezer) 10,12,13, Mufatteh (Deobstruents) 11,17,19, Mulattif (Demulcent) 17, Habis al-dam (Coagulant) 11,         Musakhkhin (Calorific) 17Muzafif  (Dessication) 15,17,19, Hazim (Digestive) 16, Musakkin awja (Anti-inflammatory) 15 and Kasir-i-Riya (Carminative) 15,16

Therefore, the properties and used of Kaiphal assorted but validity on scientific parameter still under proof or need of further assessment. In this review authors attempt to compile information realted to phytoconstituents, pharmacological activity, ethenomedicinal and conventional importence, and current published study. 

2. MATERIAL AND METHODS

The literature on this well-known USM drug was gathered from renowned Unani medicine classic books, as well as some conventional books from the National Institute of Unani Medicine's library and internet books. Data on the well-known medicine kaiphal was also gathered from a variety of reputable and indexed journals, periodicals, accepted manuscripts, and other on-line sources.

3.  RESULT AND DISCUSSION

3.1. Description of Kaiphal in USM

Kaiphal was described in USM as a 30 foot tall khardar Darakht (prickled tree) with a broad and straight stem. During Chait-Baisak (March to May), a new leaf appeared with a faint pleasant odour when crushed. Kaiphal is a tiny, elongated fruit with scarlet seeds in the centre that ripens during Baisakh (April to May). In USM, the stem bark is known as Kaiphal, and it is thick, hard, red in colour, harsh and astringent in taste, pleasant to smell, and contains color-like compounds 11,17.  

Kaiphal is a small to moderate tree with a height of 3 to 15 metres in traditional medicine. It's a woody dioecious plant that looks alike both male and female plants. Leaf; the colour of a leaf is light green on the lower surface and dark green on the top surface, with a size of 0.09 x 0.03 m and a shape of lanceolate and obovate 6. On a transverse section of a leaf made up of the epidermis (upper and lower) with one layer of polygonal cells covered by mucilaginous cuticle, vein termination (13–15) and vein islet are evident (9-11 in number) 21. Each male flower has about 25 blossoms and 12 stamens, while the plant's inflorescence is a 4.2 cm long catkin 6. Small, globular, seedy, pulpy drupes with a tough endocarp, the plant's fruits are small, globular, seedy, pulpy drupes with a tough endocarp 22. The fruits of Myrica nagi, as well as its byproducts such as syrups, jams, and pickles, are edible and can help people in Meghalaya and the sub-Himalayan region make a living 21. Seeds; the plant's seeds are triangular, 9 x 5 mm in size, 165 mg in weight, and have an astringent flavour 6,22. The bark of the Kaiphal plant is delicate, brittle, and dark brown to blackish in colour 22,23. Multilayer cork can be seen in a transverse section of mature bark, and the secondary cortex is made up of parenchymatous cells with starch grain. Rope and papper are made from bark as well 21.

3.2. Ethnomedicinal Uses of Kaiphal

3.2a. Amraz-i-Dahen

Manjan (Tooth Powder) made with Kaiphal is used to prevent and treat toothaches as well as to strengthen teeth, as well as to make Warm Lissa and Lissa Damwiya 11-16 and Badbu-i-Dahen (bad breath). Kaiphal Powder can be used on its own to treat toothaches and strengthen gums 11,17. For Dard-e-Asnan (toothache) and Qula (stomatitis), gargle with Kaiphal stem bark decoction 10,12,13,14,17Before being employed in Qula as Gargrah, stem bark is boiled in a mixture of Sharab (alcohol), Sirka (vinegar), and water 17. To prevent tooth decay, Joshanda (a decoction of stem bark) is also utilised 11.

3.2b. Amraz-i-Nizam Asab

Dalak (massage) with fine powder of Kaiphal (250 gm) burned in Rogan-i-Kunzud (Oil of Sesamum indicum) is used to treat a variety of neurological illnesses including Faliz (Paralysis), Laqwa (Facial paralysis), Khidr (Anesthetic), Rasa (Tremer), and Waja (Pain) 10,12-15. Kaiphal Tila (liniment), a native application used in Faliz 17. For consciousness, Kaiphal's Niswar (Quids; a chewing lump) is used 14. Kaliphal flower is a good treatment for Saudaqi Viawas 17. A decoction of SBK is used in the treatment of Zuf-i-Asab (Nerve Weakness) 17. Externally, SBK (100gm) and Til oil (100gm) are used in Rasa 14.

3.2c. Amraz-i-Jild

The tincture of Kaiphal bark powder has medicinal properties and can be used to treat infected, non-healing wounds 10-14 as well as in the Phonsi (Papule) 11. When powdered stem bark of Kaiphal (SBK) is applied, Qarah Sayyia Yabisa (Dry Spreading Ulcer), Qarah Khabisha (Malignent Ulcer), and Qarah Mutaffuna (Septic Ulcer) all have a prophylactic and therapeutic effect 17.

3.2d. Amraz-i-Qanat Ghiza

SBK's Joshanda is utilised in gastrointestinal disorders such as Nafakh-i-Mida (Flatulence), Dard-i-Mida (Stomachaches), and Sual Balgami (Phlegmatic cough) 10,13,17. SBK Joshanda is also used in Tanqiya-i-Mida (stomach cavity evacuation) 11,17 and Waja-ul-Mida (stomach pain) due to Barudat 11,17. In Haiza (Cholera), SBK's Zumad (paste) and Sonth (Dry Zinger) were applied topically to the epigastrium 15.

3.2e. ENT disease

To destroy and eliminate worms from the ear, SBK and Rogan-i-Kheeri (Senegalia catechu) produce an ear drop 11,17 as well as in Waja-ul-Uzn (otalgia). In the case of foul smelling in the nose produced by polyps, SBK safoof acts as a deodorant 11. SBK powder is also utilised in faul smelling from nose in the form of Batti (Suppositary) 17. After boiling SBK in Fuqa (alcohol), a solution is made and a cloth wick is dipped in it to treat nasal problems 17. SBK powder (2 gm) coupled with honey offers therapeutic effects in Nazla-wa-Zukam (Common Cold) 14. Kaliphal flower is also used to treat Nazla-wa-Zukam (Common Clod) and Saudaqi Viawas 17.

3.2f. Amraz-i-Tanasuli

A tincture of SBK powder is used in Qarah-i-Tanasuly (genital organs) and Perineal Ulcer 11,17. A paste formed from Kaiphal leaf is used topically to the vagina (Abortion) in the treatment of Ihetibas-i-Tams (Amenorrhea) and Isqat Hamal 11. Usur-i-bawl (Dysurea) and Zuf-i-Masana are both treated with SBK decoction (Atony of urinary bladder) 17 Mudirrat-i-Tams (amenogogue) and Musaqqit-i-Janeen are Mudirrat-i-Tams (amenogogue) and Musaqqit-i-Janeen 17. Isqat-i-Hamal Morover activity is boosted by flower or post coupled with other treatments, such as Nuskha of Farzaja, and Kaiphal is used to help infertile women 17.

3.2g. Amraz-i-Tanffus

Sual (Cough) 12,13, Waram-i-Halaq (Sore throat) 14 and Nazla Zukam (Common Cold) 15 all benefit from SBK's Safoof combined with honey. SBK decoction has also been shown to help with Sual Balghami (phlegmatic cough) 12,13. SBK Safoof (14 to 12 gm) Lakhlaqa (Inhalation) used in Usur-i-Tanaffus (dyspnea) caused by Balgham-Yabis (Dry Phlegm) 14. Sual Balghami, Nas al-dam, and Waram Halaq 16 are cough remedies that include powder and honey.

3.2h. Other

Sual Muzmin (chronic cough), Humma Raba (Quraten Fever), Bawaseer (Piles), and Jiryan-i-Mani (Spermatorrhea) have all been successfully treated with SBK powder and Darchini 11,17. SBK and Flower of Kaiphal were utilized to dissolve unhealthy materials, which led to infection 17.

Kaiphal leaves a pleasant odour inside the textile and protects it from insects 17.

Nauf al-dam, Zuf-i-Asab, and infection in Akhlat (Body humours) were employed in the decoction of kaiphal 17. SBK decoction is useful in the treatment of Nauf al-dam and infection in Akhlat (Body Humours).) 17. SBK is also vital in halting the flow of morbid Rutubat (Moistness) 17. Externally, SBK (100gm) and Til oil (100gm) are used in Waja Al-mafasil (Arthritis) 17. SBK powder, Haldi (Curcuma longa), Post-i-Anar (Punica granatum), Tirphala, Flower of Dhaye and Parnikgo, and Amla (Emblica officinalis) Juice are all used in the treatment of sprains and wounds. 17.

3.3. Distribution of Kaiphal

Myrmica nagi is a tiny, unisexual, evergreen tree native to India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, China, Nepal, Vietnam, Burma, and Japan. This plant grows in Punjab, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Sikkim, Kamarupan, Khasi, Jaintia, and the Lushai highlands at altitudes ranging from 900 to 2100 metres 6,21.

Plant Morphology

3.4. Properties of Kaiphal 

3.4a. Taxonomy of Plant 4,22

Kingdome – Plantae; Phylum – Tracheophyta; Order: Fagales; Family – Myricaceae; Genus – Myrica; and Species - nagi 

c. Synonyms

Myrica esculenta 4

3.4b. Vernacular Name

Kaiphal in known for their  different vernacular based on several regional languages. They are Ood al-Barqe, and Qandul in Arabi, Katphal, Kaichal, kaiphal, and satsarila in Bengali, Box Myrtle, and bay-berry in English, Darshisuan, and Shishaan in Farsi, kapha, kaiphal in Hindi, Isflaus, and Indar khusun in Greek, Kaiphal, and Kariphal in Gujarati, kaphal in jaunsar, sohphi in Khasi, kirishivani in Kannada, kayaphala in Marathi, maruta in Malayalam, katphala in Nepali, kaiphal, kahela, and kahi in Punjabi, Darshishan in Persian, Isha yus, and Isteela yus in Rome, Katphala, kathphala, aranya, and krishnagarbha in Sanskrit, and masudam in Tamil 10,14-17,24

3.4d. Mizaj (Temperament) - Different parts of the Kaiphal plant are utilized in USM, each with its own Mizaj (temperament). 

Table 1: Showing Mizaj with their degree

S.No.

Parts

Kaifiyat / degree

1

Post

(stem bark)

Haryabis (2,2) 10,11,13,15,17

Haryabis (1,2) 11,16,17,18,19

Haryabis (3,3) 11,17,

Haryabis 11,14,20

 

 

Barid 11,17

3

Fruits

Haryabis (2,2) 11,17

2

Leaf

Not mentioned

 

3.4e. Part of Use – Almost every aspect of the Myrica nagi plant has medicinal use in both traditional and conventional medicine. The useable pars in USM are post (Bark of stem) 10-12,17,20, Fruit 11, Leaf 11, and Flower 11

3.4f. Taste - Chemical compounds vary in quality and amount depending on plant varieties and plant components such as bark, fruits, and roots. As a result, the taste of each plant portion varies to some amount. Different components of Kaiphal's taste are listed as –

Post (Stem bark) : The taste is Talkh-wa-Taiz (Bitter and Pungent) 10, and in some text it described as Harif or Charpari (Pungent) 17

Wood (Phloem): Kassaila is the Taste of plant wood components (Acrid) 17

Fruits: The taste of the fruit is sourish-sweet and delightful 1

3.4g. Dosage - Unani physicians most typically employ the SBK to treat a variety of ailments. 2–9 gm is the therapeutic dosage range 10-19 are 2-5 gm, 2-4 gm, 3-5gm, 3-9gm, and 3.5-7 gm 

3.4h. Pharmacological Actions

Various parts of Kaiphal produce many previously reported pharmacological actions in USM, including Muhalil (Resolvent)Qabiz (Astringent) 10-20, Muqawwi (Tonic) 16Muqawwi Asab (Neuro tonic) 10-13,15,17,19Daf-e-Taffun (Antiseptic) 10,11,16,18,20, Daf-i-Tasannuj (Antispasmodic) 16,18,20, Daf-i-Istirkha 19, Daf-i-Suda Barid wa Viswas 19Tanfis-e-Balgham (Expectorent) 10,12,13,16Nafs-us-dam (Hemoptysis) 10,12Muattis (Sneezer) 10,12,13, Jazib-i-Rutubat Dimag 10,11,13,15, Isqat-i-Hamal (Abortificient) 11,17, Mufatteh (Deobstruents) 11,17,19, Mulattif (attenuant) 17Muqawwi-i-asana 11,17, Habis (Styptic) 16, Habis al-dam (Coagulant) 11,  Musakhkhin (Calorific) 17, Muharrik Asab (Nervine Stimulant) 20Tazfif (Dessication) 15,17,19Musaqqit-i-Dana Bawaseer 19, Hazim (Digestive) 16, Musakkin-i-awja (Analgesic) 15, and Kasir-i-Riya (Carminative) 15,16.

Mast cell stabilising, anti-asthmatic, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, antihelmintic, anxiolytic, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-hypertension, and hepatoprotective are some of the pharmacological actions of Kaiphal in conventional medicine 22.

 

 

3.4i. Traditional therapeutic Uses

Kaiphal was utilised by Unani Scholars to treat a variety of diseases, including Faliz (Hemiplegia) 10,13,15,16,20,  Laqwa (Facial Paralysis) 10,13,15,16,18,20Rasa (Tremer)  10,13,15,16,18,20Tasannuj (Spasm) 20Zuf-i-Asab 13,16,18Mutaffun Zakham (Infected wound) 10,11,13Khidr (Anaesthesia) 15,16,18Qula (Stomatitis) 10,11,13,15Dard-e-Dandan (Toohach) 10,15Muqawwi Asnan (Teeth tonic) 10Muqawwi-i-Aaza (Visceral Tonic) 17Suda (Headach) 10,15Nazla wa Zukam (Common cold) 10,11,13,15,18Humma Nazlawi (Fever in common cold) 18Nafakh-i-Mida (Flatulenc) 10,13Sual-i-Balghami (Phlegmetic wet cough) 10,13-15Viswas Saudawi (Mania) 11, Sual Muzmin (Chronic Cough) 11,18, Awram-i-Halaq (Sore throate) 18 ,   Masso (Mole) 11Usur-i-bawl (Dysuria) 11, Nazuf al-Dam (Hemoorhage) 17, Istirkha (Paralysis) of Asab (Nerve), Aaza (Organs) and Masana (Urinary Bladder) 17, Bawaseer (Pile) 17Akhraz-i-Janeen (Facilitate delivery) 17Waja al-Mafasil (Joint Pain) 15,16,18, Sujak (syphilis) 18, Kasrat-i-Tams (Menorrhagia) 18,20, Facilitate delivery19, Kasrat-i-Arq (Hyperhydrosis) 15, Sujak (Syphilis) 20, and Waja Al-mafasil (Joint pain) 20

3.4j. Naf’akhas (Main Function)

The SBK is useful to a variety of diseases, but the main activity of the medications is Nazla wa Zukam (Common cold) 10,13,15,18Muqawwi-i-Asab (Neuro tonic) 10,13,15,18, and Dafe Dard-i-Mida (Abdominal Pain) 10,13,18

3.4k. Badal (Substitute)

In the absence of Kaiphal, the following medicines are used in its place: Asaron (Valeriana wallichii) 10-19Zarawand Madhariz (Aristolochia indica17,18, and Darunj (Drocenia) 17,18.

3.4l. Muzir (Adverse Effects)

SBK has a deleterious impact on specific visceras of the body, such as Kabid, in addition to their positive effects (Liver) 1O,11,13,15-19, and Tihal (Spleen) 10,11,13,16-19.

3.4m. Corrective (Muslaeh)

When utilising one of the following medicines, such as Mastagi, you may experience an adverse impact from SBK (Pistacia nentiscus10,11,15,17,18,19, Samag-i-Arabi (Acacia arabica) 11,17, Kateera (Astragalus tragacantha) 11,17, and Tukhm-i-Gajar Dshti (Daucus carota) 18.

3.4n. Advantages of Compound Formulation of Kaiphal 

Herbs can be used alone or in combination with other herbs in USM. The requirement for a combination that satisfies one of the five senses, is simple to give, and reduces or increases the potency of a medicine 11.

3.4o. Commonly Used Formulations of Kaiphal in Unani Medicine

SBK is also utilized in a variety of Murakkabat (compounds) for a variety of therapeutic purposes, including Safoof-i-Istihaza 10,13,15,18Rogan-i-Surkh 10,13,15,16,18,20Rogan Muzarrib 16, and Rogan-i-Munash 16.


 

 

 

3.4p. Phytochemical 3,4,6,21

Table 2: Showing Phytochemicals in different part of the plant

S.No.

Phytochemicals

Parts

Types

1

Tannins and phenolic acids

Fruits

Tannin, Ascorbic acid, Gallic acid, Catechin, Cholorogenic acid, p-Coumaric acid, Caffeic acid, Trans-cinnamic acid, Ellagic acid

Leaf

Gallic acid, Ethyl-β-D-glucopyranoside; 3-hydroxybenzaldehyde, isovanillin, 4-(hydroxymethyl) phenol, 4-methoxybenzoic acid,

Bark

Gallic acid, Castalagin, epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate; epigallocatechin-(4β→8)-epigallocatechin3-O-gallate; 3-O-galloylepigallocatechin-(4β→8)-epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate,

2

Flavonoids

Fruits

Myricetin

Leaf

Myricetin, Quercetin

Bark

Myricetin

3

Flavonoid Glycosides

Leaf

Myricitrin (myricetin 3-O-rhamnoside, Flavone 4'-hydroxy-3',5,5'-trimethoxy-7-O-β-D-glucopyranosy) (1→4)-α-Lrhamnopyranoside; flavone 3',4'-dihydroxy-6-methoxy-7-O-α-L-rhamnopyranoside Leaves[63] myricetin-3-O-(3''-Ogalloyl)-α-L-rhamnoside; myricetin-3-O-(2''-Ogalloyl)-α-L galactopyranosideside; myrecetin 3-O-(2''-O-galloyl)-α-L-rhamnopyranoside

Bark

Myricitrin (myricetin 3-O-rhamnoside, Flavone 4'-hydroxy-3',5,5'-trimethoxy-7-O-β-D-glucopyranosy) (1→4)-α-Lrhamnopyranoside; flavone 3',4'-dihydroxy-6-methoxy-7-O-α-L-rhamnopyranoside Leaves[63] myricetin-3-O-(3''-Ogalloyl)-α-L-rhamnoside; myricetin-3-O-(2''-Ogalloyl)-α-L galactopyranosideside; myrecetin 3-O-(2''-O-galloyl)-α-L-rhamnopyranoside

4

Steroids

Fruits

β–sitosterol

Leaf

β-rosasterol, daucosterol, β-sitosterol-β-D-glucopyranoside

Bark

β–sitosterol, Taraxerol, Stigmasterol

5

Ionones

Leaf

Corchoionoside C; (6S,9R)-roseoside

6

Diarylhetanoids

Leaf

Myricanol, Myricanone, 5-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl myricanol

Bark

Myricanol, Myricanone, 16 bromomyricanol

7

Terpenes

Leaf

3-epi-ursolic acid; 3-O-(E)-caffeoylursonic acid, Monoterpinoidal glycosides: myresculoside (4-hydroxy-1,8-cineole 4-O-βdapiofuranosyl (1→6)-β-D-glucopyranosie); (1S,2S,4R)-2-hydroxy-1,8-cineole β-Dglucopyranoside, Triterpinoidal glycosides: arjunglucoside

Bark

Lupeol; oleanolic acid,  Triterpene diol (3β,28-dihydroxytaraxerane), 3β,30-dihydroxy-taraxerane-23-oic acid; 3β,28,30-trihydroxy- taraxara-23-oic acid; 3β,12α,28,30-tetrahydroxytaraxeran-23-oic acid

8

Proanthocyanidin

Bark

Proanthocyanidin acetate, proanthocyanidin methyl-ether, prodelhinidin

9

Volatile compounds

Leaf

Nerolidol, α-pinene, α-selinene, β-caryophyllene, β-selinen, α-caryophyllene, α-cadinol, linaloo

Bark

n-Hexadecanol; eudesmol acetate; palmitic acid; cis-β-caryophyllene; n-pentadecanol; n-octadecanol

10

Saponin

Leaf

Arjunolic Acid

11

Others

Fruits

Amino acids: L-Hydroxyproline, iso-leucine, valine, 2-aminobutyric acid, L-cystein hydroxyl, L-cystein hydroxychloride, alanine, leucine, tryptophan, glutamic acid, tyrosine, threonine, lysine monochloride, 2-Furancarboxyaldehyde, 2,5-furandionedihydro-3-methylene, furfural, oxirane, myo-inositol, 1-ethyl-4-methylcyclohexane, methyl-d-lyxofuranoside

 

 

3.4q. Nutritive value - Because of its pleasant taste, the Kaiphal fruit is widely welcomed by the locals. Fibres, proteins, lipids, carbs, and minerals are all present. Table No. 03 shows the nutritive contents 3,4.

Table 3: Showing  nutritive contents of fruit and Bark of Kaiphal

S.No.

Contents

Fruits

Bark

1

Ash (%) 

2.18±0.02

-

2

Moisture content (%) 

72.33±0.23

-

3

Crude fat (%) 

4.93±0.06

-

4

Crude fibre (%) 

5.22±0.08

-

5

Crude protein (%) 

9.62±0.03

-

6

Carbohydrates (%) 

78.03±0.14

-

7

Energy (Kcal/g) 

395.04±0.54

-

8

Minerals (mg/g)

 

-

Calcium

4.63±0.06

3.155 ± 0.18

Magnesium

8.4±0.20

1.061 ± 0.4

Potassium

7.75±0.11

2.939 ± 0.23

Phosphorus

0.24±0.25

0.030 ± 0.01

Sodium

0.81±0.013

         0.060 ± 0.03

Manganese

0.032±0.0001

1.061 ± 0.4

Zinc

0.216±0.0016

0.006 ± 0.001

Iron

0.404±0.0021

0.123 ± 0.16

Copper

0.004±0.0002

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.4s. Physicochemical properties (PC) of Kaiphal 1,4,25

Table 4: Showing  Physicochemical properties (PC) of Kaiphal

S.No.

Parameters

leaves

Bark

Small branches

Extractive value (%w/w)

 

1

Methanolic extract 

28.32

38.52

-

2

Ethyl acetate extract 

25.46

21.20

5.03

3

Aqueous extract

21.28 

15.7

3.52

4

pH of 10% aqueous solution

-

4.64

4.88

Ash Values (%w/w)

 

4

Total ash 

2.83

3.3312

1.856

5

Acid insoluble ash 

0.52

1.2300

0.320

6

Foreign matter (% w/w)

<1%

NR

-

7

Loss on drying (%w/w)

-

5

6.81







 

 

3.4t. HPTLC of Kaiphal.

A number of studies have been conducted on HPTLC of various portions of the kaiphla plant to evaluate a variety of phytochemicals. Fruits were analysed using a solvent made up of n-Butanol, Acetic acid, and water in a 4:1:5 ratio, along with various detection reagents listed in the tables No. 05 4,6.

Table 5: Showing phytochemicals by HPTLC in different regents along with ethanolic extract of Kaiphal

FRUITS

S.No.

Reagent/Extract

Solvent

Rf value

Phytochemical

1

Visible light/

Ethanolic extract

n-Butanol/Acetic acid/water = 4:1:5

0.25, 0.43, 0.57, 0.75, 0.88

Myricetin, Vitexin, Auireubidin , Lutolin, Apigenin

2

363 nm (U.V)/

Ethanolic extract

n-Butanol/Acetic acid/water = 4:1:5

0.09, 0.18, 0.30, 0.49 0.65, 0.731

Cysteine Atropine, Glycine, Orientin, Azaleatin, Quercitin, chlorogenic acid Rhamnoside, Tricin

3

Iodine Vapours/

Ethanolic extract

n-Butanol/Acetic acid/water = 4:1:5

0.07, 0.09, 0.12, 0.25, 0.30, 0.35, 0.14,

Berberine, Cysteine, Proline, Alanine, Glutamic acid, Gossypetin, Morphine, Glutamine, Aesculin, Cichorin, Scopolin, Quinine, Malvidin,

4

 

n-Butanol/Acetic acid/water = 4:1:5

0.09, 0.30, 0.51, 0.71, 0.82, 0.88

Cysteine, Valine, Caffeoylglucose,, Asperulin, cellebiose Peonidin, Pelargonidin Isoferulic, umbelliferone

BARK

S.No.

Reagent/Extract

Solvent

Rf value

Phytochemical

1

Ultrasound assisted technique/

Bark extract

toluene-ethyl acetateformic acid = 5:5:1

0.56

Gallic acid

2

Ultrasound assisted technique/

 Bark extract

toluene-ethyl acetate  = 8:2

 

0.38, 0.49, 0.62

Oleanolic acid, Stigmasterol, Lupeol

 

 

 

 

 

 


 

3.4r. Pharmacognostical studies, Physicochemical and Clinical Studies on Kaiphal

  1. Anti- Allergic Action

According to Patel KG et al., Myrica esculenta at 75 mg/kg and 150 mg/kg significantly reduced (p<0.01) eosinophil infiltration and exudate in pleural fluids due to decreased histamine, cytokines, chemokines production, and mast cell degranulation. 26. In an egg-albumin driven degranulation of mast cells in rats, Patel T et al., found that ethyl acetate and aqueous extract in doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg produced considerably stronger protection of degranulation in mast cells (45 and 62 % respectively) than prednisolone (65 %). It also had a larger mast cell stabilising impact than prednisolone, with 70 and 78 percent, respectively (65 % ) 27.

  1. Anti-inflammatory Action

COX-2 activity is reduced by phytochemicals such myricitrin, myricetin, and corchoionoside C more than ibuprofen, indicating possible antiinflammatory action 28. Middha SK et al., found that larger doses of Myrica nagi significantly reduced (21.71 percent) inflammation in rats generated by carrageenan stimulation when compared to diclofenac (32.75 %). Inflammatory markers such as IL-1 and TNF- were considerably lower (p< 0.05) in the Myrica nagi treated group compared to the control group 29. Patel et al., used an adult Wistar albino rat model to study paw edoema caused by carrageenan and histamine. At 100 and 200 mg/kg, aquos and ethylacetate extracts of Myrica nagi bark reduced edeman by 22% and 27%, respectively, compared to asprin (28%) induced by carrageenan, and 18% and 25%, respectively, compared to asprin (27%) induced by histamine 30On local application of bark oil of Myrica esculenta in the ear of Swiss albino mice, Agnihotri S et al., discovered considerable antiinflammatory action 31.

  1. Anti-oxidative

According to Middha SK et al, phenolic compounds found in Myrica nagi may reduce short-term inflammation by modulating free-radical activity 29According to Mann S et al., a MeOH extract of fresh Myrica esculenta fruits produced dose-dependent free radical scavenging activity, with ABTS (1,2,2′-azinobis-[3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid]) and DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-picrylhydrazyl hydrate) of 91.910.2 % and 82.572.9 % respectively. 32According to Kabra A et al., methanol extract of Myrica esculenta produced powerful ABTS and DPPH radical scanvengers with IC50 values of 52.83 g/mL and 39.29 g/mL, respectively 33.

  1. Antihelmintic Action

According to Jain VK et al., aqueous-ethanolic extract of bark of Myrica esculenta at a concentration of 12.5 mg/ml produces paralysis in Pheritima posthuma in 20.11 minutes and death in 41.25 minutes. The potency of extracts increased as concentration increased 34.

  1. Anti-microbial Action

According to Mann S et al., the presence of 2-furancarboxaldehyde, pentadecanoic acid, phytol, and hexadecanoic acid in fruits extract resulted in antibacterial and antioxidant activities 32. S. Agnihotri et al., conducted a study on Myrica esculenta bark oil, which contains n-hexadecanol, eudesmol acetate, palmitic acid, cis-caryophyllene, n-pentadecanol, and n-octadecanol, and had a strong antimicrobial effect against a variety of microbes including Staphylococc 31. According to Kabra A et al., methanol extract of Myrica esculenta is effective against bacterial and fungal strains 33.

 

  1. Anticancer activity

Due to the presence of gallic acid and ferulic acid, Mann S et al,. discovered that MeOH extract of Soh-phie fruits has anticancer action 32.

  1. Renin Angiotensin System Activity

Compounds 3 and 4 inhibit ACE at rates of 29.97 % and 25.% at 100nM concentrations, respectively, according to Nhiem NX et al., whereas compounds 5, 6, and 11 provide mild inhibition at rates of 0.07-1.41 % at 100 nM concentrations 35.

  1. Anxiolytic Impact

According to Khan Y et al, an ethanol extract of Myrica nagi bark in doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg orally demonstrated substantial dose-related anti-anxiety effects by time spent in the open arms of the elevated plus-maze and in the lit-box. In the tail suspension and forced swimming tests, this study was unable to find an effect similar to antidepressants 36

  1. Mast cell Stabilizing Impact

K Rana R et al. discovered that Myrica nagi (polar extract of bark (PEB) in 200 mg/kg) has antiasthmatic effect that was virtually identical to that of Ketotifen (1 mg/kg). PEB at a concentration of 200 g/ml decreased acetylcholine-stimulated contractions in the trachea of isolated guinea pigs. In rat peritoneal mast cells, it also significantly inhibited degranulation pecntage. Methanolic extract (200mg/kg) and PEB (200mg/kg) reduced the number of eosinophils and neutrophils, as well as serum bicarbonate and tidal volume 37.

  1. Neuroprotective activity

According to Kabra A et al., oral form M. esculenta (methanolic extract) at doses of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg in mice with Parkinson's disease caused by intraperitoneal haloperidol 1 mg/kg for 7 days improved behaviour and muscle coordination significantly. In the treatment group, levels of malonaldehyde and malonaldehyde are lower, while levels of antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase and catalase are higher than in the control group. M. esculenta (methanolic extract) effectively reduced haloperidol-induced substantia nigra damage 38.

  1. Nephroprotective

According to Dua TK et al., myricitrin reduced oxidative stress by scavenging free radicals, improved internal redox defence by activating Nrf-2, and reduced renal inflammation caused by diabetes by suppressing NF-B. Induced by hyperglycemia, myricitrin also inhibits fibrosis and death in renal cells [39]. Pallab Kar and his colleagues discovered that the fruit juice Myrica nagi can be employed as a free radical scavenger to protect kidney patients from the toxic effects of gentamicin 40

  1. Antiadipogenic activity

According to Prashar Y et al., methanolic extract of Myrica nagi inhibits lipase, glucosidase, and amylase, which lowers adipogenesis and increases lipolysis in 3T3-L1 cells. As a result, extract has anti-adipogenic and anti-obesity properties 41.

4. CONCLUSION

Kaiphal plant have numerous therapeutic properties and their significant economic contribution in different regions. Unani and other traditional experts recommend Kaiphal for the prevention and treatment of a variety of ailments viz. Zeeq-un-Nafas, Usur-i-Tanaffus, Faliz, Rasa, Dard-e-Asnan, Qula,Qarah, Sual Balgami, Dard-i-Mida, Waja-ul-Uzn, Ihetibas-i-Tams, and Jiryan-i-Mani. But limited number of trial were perfomed till date that poorly helped to grasp its efficacy on standard parameters in the diseases, therefore more research is needed to assess and validate preventive and therapeutic importance of Kaiphal.  

CONFLICT OF INTEREST

No conflict of interest

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 

We thank the Moalajat department's scholars and liberary personnel for their cooperation and for providing material for our manuscript.

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