Abstract

VIDANGA (EMBELIA RIBES BURM.F.) IN AYURVEDA: A LITERARY AND SCIENTIFIC REVIEW

*Dr. Anurag Gangwar, Dr. Sreelakshmy K., Dr. Vishnu Darsan, Dr. Premlata,

Abstract

Background: Vidanga (Embelia ribes Burm. f.), a classical Ayurvedic herb from the family Primulaceae, is one of the most potent Krimighna (anthelmintic) drugs extensively mentioned in Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, and various Nighantus. Traditionally, Vidanga has been used for its anti-parasitic, digestive, and detoxifying properties, and forms an essential ingredient of several formulations including Vidangarishta, Vidangadi Churna, and Krimimudgar Rasa. Aim: To present a comprehensive review of Vidanga by integrating classical Ayurvedic references with modern botanical, phytochemical, and pharmacological evidence. Materials and Methods: Classical Ayurvedic texts and Nighantus were reviewed to document the nomenclature, Gana/Varga classification, properties, and therapeutic indications of Vidanga. Scientific data on taxonomy, morphology, phytochemistry, and pharmacological actions of Embelia ribes were collected from peer-reviewed journals and databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Technical terms were standardized using the NAMASTE portal. Results: Vidanga is classified under Krimighna, Kushthaghna, Shirovirechaniya, and Pippalyadi groups, and exhibits Katu Rasa, Ruksha Laghu Guna, Ushna Virya, Katu Vipaka, and dominant Krimighna and Vatakaphahara actions. Morphologically, it is a scandent shrub with characteristic blackish berries, which constitute the main medicinal part. Phytochemical analysis reveals the presence of embelin, christembine, benzoquinone derivatives, resins, fatty acids, sterols, and alkaloids. Modern studies demonstrate a wide range of pharmacological activities including analgesic, anthelmintic, antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, antidiabetic, anticonvulsant, anticancer, hepatoprotective, antihyperlipidemic, antifertility, antihyperhomocysteinemic, and wound-healing properties. Embelin, the principal bioactive constituent, plays a major role in these therapeutic effects. Conclusion: Vidanga is a highly valued Ayurvedic herb with strong traditional and scientific support for its anthelmintic and digestive actions. Its wide spectrum of pharmacological activities highlights its potential for managing metabolic disorders, parasitic infections, inflammatory diseases, reproductive dysfunctions, and neurodegenerative conditions. Further clinical studies are needed to validate classical uses and establish safe therapeutic dosage standards.

Keywords: Embelia ribes, Embelin, Krimighna, Anthelmintic activity.