Pashanbheda (Coleus aromaticus): The Medicinal Plant with Multiple Health Benefits

Introduction:

Pashanbheda, also known as Coleus aromaticus, is a popular medicinal plant that has been used for centuries in Ayurveda and other traditional medicine systems. It is native to India and is found in other parts of Southeast Asia as well. Pashanbheda belongs to the Lamiaceae family and has various other names like Patharchur, Pashanabheda, and Country Borage in different regions.

The plant is known for its healing properties and is used in various forms such as leaves, roots, and extracts. In Ayurveda, it is believed to have a cooling effect on the body and is used to treat a wide range of ailments like urinary tract infections, kidney stones, respiratory disorders, and fever. The plant has also been used for culinary purposes as a flavoring agent in some regions.

Today, Pashanbheda is gaining popularity worldwide, and several scientific studies have been conducted to investigate its therapeutic potential. In this article, we will explore the botanical features, chemical composition, medicinal properties, side effects, and precautions associated with Pashanbheda.

Botanical features:

Pashanbheda, or Coleus aromaticus, is a perennial herb that grows up to a height of 30-90 cm. The plant has a thick stem with branches that are slightly hairy. The leaves are simple, ovate to broadly ovate, and arranged in an opposite manner. The leaf blades are about 2-10 cm long, 1-8 cm wide, and have a serrated margin.

The flowers of Pashanbheda are small and arranged in clusters on long spikes that emerge from the leaf axils. The calyx of the flowers is green, tubular, and has five teeth. The corolla is white or blue and two-lipped, with the upper lip having two lobes and the lower lip having three lobes.

Pashanbheda prefers well-drained soil and grows best in warm and humid conditions. It can tolerate temperatures ranging from 20-35°C and requires a moderate amount of rainfall. The plant is often found growing wild in forested areas or along the edges of fields and roadsides.

Here is a picture of Pashanbheda to help readers visualize the plant:

 

Chemical composition:

Pashanbheda contains a variety of chemical compounds that are responsible for its medicinal properties. The plant is rich in essential oils, flavonoids, phenolic acids, terpenoids, and alkaloids. Some of the major active constituents of Pashanbheda are:

1. Coleonols: These are diterpenoids that have been found to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-tumor properties.

2. Essential oils: The essential oils obtained from Pashanbheda contain compounds like carvacrol, eucalyptol, and thymol, which possess antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.

3. Flavonoids: The flavonoids present in Pashanbheda, such as apigenin, luteolin, and quercetin, have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activities.

4. Phenolic acids: The plant contains phenolic acids like rosmarinic acid, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

5. Alkaloids: Pashanbheda also contains alkaloids like coleonine and coleonone, which have been shown to have anti-hypertensive and anti-inflammatory effects.

The extraction of active ingredients from Pashanbheda can be done using various methods like steam distillation, solvent extraction, and maceration. The plant is available in different forms in the market, including fresh or dried leaves, extracts, capsules, and powders. The choice of form depends on the intended use and the desired dosage.

Medicinal properties:

Pashanbheda has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties in Ayurveda and other traditional medicine systems. The plant is believed to have a cooling effect on the body and is used to treat a wide range of ailments, including urinary tract infections, kidney stones, respiratory disorders, fever, and gastrointestinal disorders.

Urinary tract infections:

Pashanbheda is used to treat urinary tract infections due to its antibacterial and diuretic properties. Studies have shown that the plant extract can inhibit the growth of bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Klebsiella pneumoniae, which are responsible for urinary tract infections. The diuretic property of the plant helps to flush out the bacteria and reduce inflammation in the urinary tract.

Kidney stones:

Pashanbheda is used to treat kidney stones due to its anti-inflammatory and lithotriptic properties. The lithotriptic property of the plant helps to dissolve kidney stones and prevent their formation. Studies have shown that Pashanbheda can reduce the size and number of kidney stones in rats.

Respiratory disorders:

Pashanbheda is used to treat respiratory disorders due to its expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties. The plant is believed to help clear the respiratory tract and relieve coughs and congestion. Studies have shown that Pashanbheda can reduce inflammation in the airways and improve lung function in rats.

Fever:

Pashanbheda is used to treat fever due to its antipyretic and analgesic properties. The plant is believed to help reduce fever and relieve pain associated with fever. Studies have shown that Pashanbheda can reduce fever and inflammation in rats.

Gastrointestinal disorders:

Pashanbheda is used to treat gastrointestinal disorders due to its antispasmodic and carminative properties. The plant is believed to help relieve stomach cramps and flatulence. Studies have shown that Pashanbheda can reduce spasms in the gastrointestinal tract and improve digestion in rats.

Ayurvedic Medicines:

Pashanbheda is known for its various medicinal properties and has been traditionally used in Ayurveda to treat urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and respiratory disorders. It is also a key ingredient in the popular herbal remedy ‘Elbas syrup’, which is used to treat urinary tract infections, kidney stones problems. Elbas syrup contains a blend of various herbs and ingredients that work together with Pashanbheda to provide relief from these symptoms

In conclusion, Pashanbheda has been used for centuries in Ayurveda and other traditional medicine systems to treat various ailments. Scientific evidence has shown that the plant possesses antibacterial, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, lithotriptic, expectorant, antipyretic, analgesic, antispasmodic, and carminative properties. However, further studies are needed to establish the effectiveness of Pashanbheda in treating these conditions in humans.

Side effects and precautions:

While Pashanbheda is generally considered safe when used in recommended doses, there may some potential side effects and precautions that need to be considered:

1. Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to Pashanbheda. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include itching, swelling, rash, and difficulty breathing. If any of these symptoms occur, discontinue use and seek medical attention immediately.

2. Interaction with medications: Pashanbheda may interact with certain medications. If you are taking any medications, consult your healthcare provider before using Pashanbheda.

3. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: There is insufficient information on the safety of Pashanbheda during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid using Pashanbheda.

4. Dosage and duration of use: Pashanbheda should be used in recommended doses and for a limited duration of time. Overuse or prolonged use may lead to adverse effects.

5. Children: Pashanbheda should not be given to children without the advice of a healthcare professional.

In conclusion, while Pashanbheda is generally considered safe when used in recommended doses, it is important to consider the potential side effects and precautions before using the plant. If you experience any adverse effects or have any concerns, consult your healthcare provider.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Pashanbheda is a medicinal plant that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Ayurveda. It contains several chemical compounds, including forskolin, which have various medicinal properties.

Pashanbheda has been traditionally used to treat urinary tract infections, kidney stones, respiratory disorders, and other ailments. Scientific studies have also supported its effectiveness in treating these conditions.

To use Pashanbheda safely and effectively, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for proper dosage and duration of use. It is also important to purchase Pashanbheda from a reputable source to ensure quality and purity. Find reputable ayurvedic manufacturing company here

In conclusion, Pashanbheda is a valuable plant with a long history of use in traditional medicine systems. With proper precautions and guidance, it can be safely incorporated into a holistic approach to health and wellness.

Herbs Alphabetical List

Adraka (Zingiber Officinale), Agar Agar (Gelidium Amansii), Ajamoda (Carum Roxburghianum), Ajwain (Trachyspermum Ammi), Aloevera (Aloe Barbadensis), Alsi (Linum Usitatissimum), Amaltaas (Cassia Fistula), Amla (Emblica Officinalis), Amrapandhi haridra (Curcuma Amada) , Ananthamoola (Hemidesmus Indicus), Apamarg (Achyranthes Aspera), Arand Beej (Ricinus Communis), Arjun (Terminalia Arjuna), Ashoka (Saraca Indica), Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera), Atibala         (Abutilon Indicum), Babool Gond (Acaia Arabica), Bael / Belpatre (Aegle Marmelos), Bahera (Terminalia Bellirica), Bansa (Adhatoda Vasica), Bavding (Embelia Ribes), Bharangi (Clerodendrum Serratum), Bhringaraj (Eclipta Alba), Bhuiamla (Phyllanthus Niruri), Bhutrina (Cymbopogon Citrastus), Bola (Commiphora Myrrha), Brahmi (Herpestis Monniera), Chandrashoor (Lepidium Sativum), Chameli (Jasminum Officinale), Chirayta (Swertia Chirata), Chirongi Oil (Buchanania Latifolia), Chitra (Plumbago Zeylanica), Dadima Beej (Punica Granatum), Dalchini  (Cinnamomum Zeylanicum), Daruhaldi (Berberis Aristate), Devdaru (Cedrus Deodara), Dhataki (Woodfordia Fruticosa), Draksha (Vitis Vinifera), Gairik (Ochre), Gajar (Daucus Carota), Gali Pan / Paan (Betel Pepper), Gandhpura Oil (Gaultheria Fragrantissima), Garlic Shuddha (Allium Sativum), Goat Milk, Wheat Grass Oil (Triticum Sativum), Gokharu (Tribulus Terrestris), Gorakhganja (Aerva Lanata), Gudmar (Gymnema Sylvestre), Guduchi (Tinosora Cordifolia), Gulab (Rosa Centifolia), Gular (Ficus Glomerata Roxb.), Hadjod (Cissus Quadranglaris), Haldi (Curcuma Longa), Hansraj  (Adiantum Lunulatum), Harad (Terminalia Chebula), Harshingar (Nyctanthes Arbor-Tristis), Hingu (Ferula Ashafoetida), Honey, Indrajaw (Holarrhena Antidysenterica), Ispaghul Husk (Plantago Ovata), Jaiphal (Myristica Fragrans), Jamun (Eugenia Jambolana), Jarul (Lagerstroemia Flos-Reginae Retz), Jatamansi (Nardostachys Jatamansi), Java Kushum (Hibiscus Rosasinensis), Jeera (Cuminum Cyminum), Jyotishmati (Celastrus Paniculatus), Kakarsingi (Pistacia Integerrima), Kali Mirach (Piper Nigrum), Kallaungi (Nigella Sativa), Kalmegh (Andrographis Peniculata), Kantkari (Solanum Xanthocarpum), Kapoor (Cinnamomum Camphora), Kapoor Tulsi (Ocimum Americanum), Karanja (Pongamia Glabra), Karela (Momordica Charantia), Kasni (Cichorium Intybus), Kaunch Beej (Mucuna Pruriens), Khadir (Acacia Catechu), Khatmi (Althaea Officinalis), Kiwi (Actinidia Deliciosa), Kulattha (Dolichos Biflorus), Kumkum/Kesar (Crocus Sativas), Kuth (Saussurea Costus), Kutki (Picrorhiza Kurroa), Lajjalu Mool (Mimosa Pudica), Laksha (Laccifer Lacca), Lal Chandan (Pterocarpus Santalinus), Lata Karanj (Caesalpinia Bonducella Fleming), Lavang (Caryophyllus Aromaticus), Lodhra (Symplocos Racemosa), Makoy (Solanum Nigrum), Manjishtha (Rubia Cordifolia), Mehandi Pan (Lawsonia Alba), Methi (Trigonella Foenum-Graecum), Mooli (Raphanus Sativus), Mulethi (Glycyrrhiza Glabra), Mundi (Sphaeranthus Indicus), Mustaka (Cyperus Rotundus), Nagar Moth (Cyperus Scariosus), Nagbala (Sida Veronicaefolia), Nagkesar (Mesua Ferrea), Naryan/Coconut Oil (Cocos Nucifera) , Neem (Azadirachta Indica), Nilgiri Oil (Eucalyptus Glabulus), Nimbu (Citrus Limon), Nirgundi (Vitex Negundo), Nisoth (Ipomoea Turpethum), Oyester Shell, Padmaka (Prunus Puddum), Palash (Butea Frondosa), Papaya (Carica Papaya), Pashanh Bedh (Coleus Aromaticus), Pipal (Ficus Religiosa), Pipli (Piper Longum), Pitpara (Fumaria Officinalis), Pudina (Mentha Piperata), Punarnava (Boerhaavia Diffusa), Pushkar Mool (Inula Racemosa), Rama Tulsi (Ocimum Gratissimum), Rasana (Pluchea Lanceolata), Revand Chini (Rheum Emodi), Roheda (Tecomella Undulata), Rosary Tulsi (Ocimum Canum), Saindhav Lavan (Chloride of Sodium), Salaki (Boswellia Serrata), Sanay (Cassia Angustifolia), Saunf (Foeniculum Vulgare), Sevam (Pyrus Malus), Shankpushpi (Convolvulus Pluricaulis), Sharpunkha (Tephrosia Purpurea), Shatavari (Asparagus Racemosus), Shetal Chini (Piper Cubeba), Shigru (Moringa Pterygosperma), Shudh Kuchla (Strychnos Nux Vomica Linn), Shyama Tulsi (Ocimum Tenuiflorum), Shyonak (Oroxylum Indicum), Siras (Albizzia Lebbeck Benth), Somlata (Ephedra Vulgaris), Soya Been Oil (Glycine Max), St John's Wort Ext. (Hypericum Perforatum), Sudh Guggul (Balsamodendron Mukul), Sudh Shilajeet (Asphaltum Punjabinum),  Sukshmela (Elettaria Cardamomum), Suranjan Siri (Colchicum Luteum), Svet Chandan (Santalum Album), Svet Moosali (Asparagus Adscenden), Tagar (Valeriana Wallichii), Tejpatra (Cinnamomum Tamala), Terpentine Oil (Pinus Palustris), Til Oil (Sesamum Indicum), Tulsi (Ocimum Sanctum), Ulathkamal (Ambroma Augusta), Vach (Acorus Calamus), Vidari (Pueraria Tuberosa), Van Tulsi (Ocimum Basilicum), Varuna (Crataeva Nurvala), Vijaysaar (Pterocarpus Marsupium), Zoofa (Hyssopus Officinalis)