Abstract

KAMAL (NELUMBO NUCIFERA GAERTN.) – A LITERARY REVIEW FROM VEDIC ERA AND SAMHITA

*Vd. Vedanti Ashok Kulkarni, Vd. Nilesh N Joshi and Vd. Kamal Naik

.

Abstract

Kamal has been stated as sacred and treated as a symbol of purity and sanctity because of its unique beauty. It has its noticeable holy and therapeutic importance in India as well as in other countries. One of the synonyms of Kamal- ‘Padma’ means ‘one where Goddess Lakshmi resides’. There are many Vedic references of Kamal for its sacred and medicinal values. Similarly in further Samhita kala we find its ornamental and therapeutic importance in various references. Acharya Charaka has mentioned mere presence of Kamal can be effective in Raktapitta and other Paitik vyadhi. Bhavapraksha has mentioned it in ‘Pushpa varga’, along with the flower of Kamal all parts of dravya has its own medicinal value and importance. Along with these therapeutic values it also has its dietary references. Rhizome, seeds, flowers of Kamal are used in dietary items in many countries. Hence review of Kamal from Vedic era and Samhita has been done to know more about this multifaceted dravya.

Keywords: Kamal, Nelumo nucifera, vedic era.