Abstract

ROLE OF SWERTIA CHIRAYITA IN JWAR WSR TO ANTI-PYRETIC AGENT

*Dr. Swatika, Dr. Om Prakash Sharma, Dr. Naresh Kumar Garg, Dr. Nikita Panwar, Dr. Monika

Abstract

Jwar is important and critical among all the diseases, because it affects each and every living being. Hence, it has been given first place in the classical texts of Ayurveda. Atharvaveda has also referred Jwara with the name Takman (son of God Varuna) and drugs like Kustha, Jangida and Anjana have been prescribed for its management. References with regard to Jwara are also found in other non-medical literature Viz., Mahābhārata, Purānas etc. Acharya sushruta[1] has mentioned that, man comes to this world with Jwara and departs with it. Jwara affects the whole body, the organs of senses and also the mind. According to mythology, Jwara was originated from the hot and destructive breath of Lord Siva, which was produced from his nostrils during the paroxysms of grief and rage on the death of his wife, Durga. It attacks all persons of all ages and in all conditions. Jwara is the king of all diseases[2], destroyer of all creatures and severe hence a physician should be practically cautious in treating it. Ayurveda has a significant name. It is the knowledge of the science, which ensures health and longevity. It is in no way inferior to other systems. The Ayurvedic doctors had very great influence in the field of medicine. Ayurveda mentioned Jwara as the synonym of the disease or a febrile condition. The role of this single drug- Chirayita (Gentianaceae), a popular medicinal herb indigenous to the temperate Himalayas is used in traditional medicine to treat numerous ailments such as jwara, liver disorders, malaria, and diabetes and are reported to have a wide spectrum of pharmacological properties. Its medicinal usage is well-documented in Indian pharmaceutical codex, the British, and the American pharmacopeias and in different traditional medicine such as the Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, and other conventional medical systems. This medicinal herb is known mostly for its bitter taste caused by the presence of different bioactive compounds that are directly associated with human health welfare.

Keywords: Jwara, Shodhana, Shamana, chirayata.