Abstract

IN-DEPTH EXPLORATION AND ASSESSMENT OF THE PHARMACOLOGICAL AND MEDICINAL POTENTIAL OF ELEUSINE CORACANA (LINN.) GAERTN- “THE SUPER MILLET-A LITERARY REVIEW

Dr. Sethu R.*, Dr. Mathew Joseph, Dr. Ankitha Sudheendran and Dr. Krishna Priya A.

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Abstract

Ayurveda always approached health not only to cure diseases, but also to maintain health of a healthy individual. Science has given equal importance to preventative aspects along with curative approach. This approach can be substantiated by various references throughout the ayurvedic classics texts in various contexts like Rtucharya(seasonal regimens), Dinacharya (Daily regimens) Janapadodhwamsa(Chapter on epidemiology) Rakshoghna karma(Precautionary measures to combat infection /sickness) etc. One such important context is the mentioning of trayopasthambha or the three pillars of health, in which acharya has stressed the importance of application of ahara or food in health. This Health aspect of food is elaborated in various food groups mentioned. Among one such food group is Trina dhanya or Kshudra dhanya or millets. Among the most commonly available and used millets, finger millet is regarded as a superfood for its nutritional benefits in various parts of the country. This article is aimed to explore and understand the pharmacological, nutritional, and medicinal properties of Raagi/ Finger millet/ Eleusine coracana (Linn.) Gaertn.

Keywords: Raagi, Nutraceuticals, Finger millet, Nutrition, Pharmacology, Millet, Trina dhanya, traopasthambha.