Blepharis maderaspatensis(Acanthacea)

Blepharis maderaspatensis (Madras Carpet Weed)

1. Scientific name and Basic Taxonomic classification

Species: Blepharis maderaspatensis

Family: Acanthaceae

Genus: Blepharis

Related Herbs from the same family:

Justicia adhatoda (Vasaka/Malabar Nut): A premier herb for respiratory conditions in Ayurveda. It is a potent expectorant, bronchodilator, and anti-inflammatory agent used for cough, asthma, and bronchitis.

Andrographis paniculata (Kalmegh/Bhumineem): A key bitter tonic and hepatoprotective herb, widely used for liver disorders, fevers, and infections due to its strong immunomodulatory and antipyretic properties.

Hygrophila schulli (Kokilaksha/Talmakhana): A renowned Ayurvedic rejuvenative (Rasayana) for the male reproductive system, used as a diuretic, aphrodisiac, and for treating urinary disorders.

Barleria prionitis (Vajradanti/Porcupine Flower): Used traditionally for oral health (gingivitis, toothache), respiratory issues, and inflammatory conditions. Its roots and leaves are used medicinally.

The Acanthaceae family is a large group of plants, many of which are known for their strong medicinal properties, particularly for the respiratory system, liver, and as anti-inflammatories. They often contain bioactive alkaloids and flavonoids.

2. Common names

Scientific Name: Blepharis maderaspatensis | English: Madras Carpet Weed, Ubhata | Sanskrit: Ubhata, Vrishchikali | Hindi: Ubhata, Uttamjira | Tamil: Uppilittangarai | Telugu: Nela Vemu | Kannada: Ubbhe Gida | Malayalam: Katalati | Marathi: Ubhatada | Bengali: Ubbet | Gujarati: Ubhiyato |

3. Medicinal Uses:

Diuretic,Anti-inflammatory, Lithontriptic (helps break down urinary stones), Antispasmodic, Hepatoprotective, Antioxidant, Febrifuge (reduces fever).

Medicinal Parts:

The whole plant,including the roots, leaves, and seeds, is used in traditional medicine.

4. Phytochemicals specific to the plant and their action.

Flavonoids (Apigenin, Luteolin): These compounds are potent Antioxidants and contribute significantly to the plant's Anti-inflammatory and Diuretic effects.

Phenolic Glycosides: These water-soluble compounds are known for their Antioxidant activity and may contribute to the plant's protective effects on the kidneys and liver.

Alkaloids (Blepharines): Unique to the Blepharis genus, these alkaloids are studied for their Antispasmodic and potential Analgesic (pain-relieving) properties, which are crucial for relieving urinary and renal colic.

Tannins: Astringent compounds that provide Antioxidant benefits and may have a mild Antimicrobial effect in the urinary tract.

Saponins: These compounds are known for their Diuretic and Anti-inflammatory actions, supporting the plant's primary use in urinary disorders.

5. Traditional and Ethnobotanical uses covering the Medicinal uses.

Mutrakrichra (Dysuria) & Ashmari (Urinary Stones)

Formulation: Decoction of the whole plant.

Preparation & Use: A decoction is made from the fresh or dried whole plant and consumed regularly for several days to weeks.

Reasoning: It is a classic folk medicine across India, especially in rural areas, for treating painful urination and for breaking down and expelling urinary stones. Its diuretic and suspected lithontriptic properties are key.

Jwara (Fever) & Daha (Burning Sensation)

Formulation: Plant juice or decoction.

Preparation & Use: The fresh juice of the plant or a light decoction is administered to reduce fevers and alleviate internal burning sensations, particularly those associated with urinary tract infections.

Reasoning: Its Sheeta (cooling) potency and diuretic action help pacify Pitta dosha, which is responsible for fever and burning sensations, by flushing out excess heat through urine.

Shotha (Inflammation) & Vrana (Wounds)

Formulation: Poultice of fresh leaves.

Preparation & Use: A paste made from the fresh leaves is applied topically to inflamed joints, swellings, or wounds to reduce pain and inflammation.

Reasoning: The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of the phytochemicals help reduce local swelling and prevent infection.

Yakrit Vikara (Liver Disorders)

Formulation: Whole plant extract.

Preparation & Use: The juice or decoction of the plant is used in traditional practices to support liver function and in cases of jaundice.

Reasoning: The antioxidant flavonoids and phenolic compounds provide a hepatoprotective effect, shielding liver cells from damage.

6. Healing recipes, Teas, Decoctions and Culinary use (if any):

This herb is primarily used medicinally and is not common in cuisine.

Ubhata Kashayam for Urinary Stones and Dysuria

Purpose: To dissolve urinary stones and relieve painful urination.

Preparation & Use:

· Take a handful of the fresh or dried whole Blepharis maderaspatensis plant.

· Boil it in 4 cups of water until it reduces to about 1 cup.

· Strain and divide this decoction into two doses.

· Consume one dose in the morning and one in the evening on an empty stomach.

Fresh Plant Juice for Fever and Burning Sensation

Purpose: To reduce fever and internal heat.

Preparation & Use:

· Crush a sufficient quantity of the fresh plant to extract the juice.

· Take 1-2 teaspoons of this juice, mixed with a little honey, twice a day.

Topical Poultice for Inflammation

Purpose: To reduce joint pain and swelling.

Preparation & Use:

· Clean and grind the fresh leaves into a fine paste.

· Apply this paste directly to the inflamed or painful area.

· Leave it on for 30-45 minutes before washing off with lukewarm water.

7. Disclaimer:

Blepharis maderaspatensisis a traditional medicinal herb with a history of folk use. However, scientific research on its efficacy and safety is limited. It should not be used as a substitute for professional medical diagnosis and treatment, especially for serious conditions like kidney stones. Self-treatment for urinary stones can be dangerous if obstruction occurs. Due to its strong diuretic effect, it may cause dehydration or electrolyte imbalance if used excessively. Pregnant and lactating women should avoid its use due to a lack of safety data. Always consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner or Ayurvedic doctor before using this herb therapeutically.

8. Reference Books, Books for In-depth Study:

· Indian Materia Medica by Dr. K.M. Nadkarni

· Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India

· Compendium of Indian Medicinal Plants by R.P. Rastogi & B.N. Mehrotra

· Ethnobotanical Leaflets (for traditional use references)

9. Further study: Plants that might interest you due to similar medicinal properties

1. Hygrophila schulli (Kokilaksha)

* Species:Hygrophila schulli | Family: Acanthaceae | Genus: Hygrophila

* Similarities:Both are members of the Acanthaceae family and are renowned for their strong diuretic and lithontriptic (stone-dissolving) properties. They are cornerstone herbs in traditional systems for managing Mutrakrichra (dysuria) and Ashmari (urinary stones).

2. Tribulus terrestris (Gokshura)

* Species:Tribulus terrestris | Family: Zygophyllaceae | Genus: Tribulus

* Similarities:Gokshura is a classic Ayurvedic diuretic and rejuvenative for the urinary system. Like Blepharis, it is used for urinary tract infections, stones, and dysuria. However, Gokshura is also a famous Vajikarana (aphrodisiac) herb, which is not a primary attribute of Ubhata.

3. Bergenia ligulata (Pashanbheda)

* Species:Bergenia ligulata | Family: Saxifragaceae | Genus: Bergenia

* Similarities:The very name "Pashanbheda" means "stone-dissolver." Both Bergenia ligulata and Blepharis maderaspatensis are powerful traditional medicines used specifically for breaking down and expelling kidney and urinary stones. They represent a key therapeutic category in ethnobotanical practice.

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