Botanical Name: Celastrus paniculatus

Family: Celastraceae

Description: Jyotishmati, also known as Malkangni, is a large, woody climbing shrub with a corky bark. The leaves are simple, alternate, and ovate with a serrated margin. The plant produces small, yellowish-green flowers in clusters, followed by round, yellow-orange fruits that contain numerous seeds.

Occurrence: Jyotishmati is found in India, particularly in the sub-Himalayan region, Central India, and the Western Ghats. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests and hilly areas.

Chemical Constituents:

• Alkaloids (celastrine, paniculatin)
• Sesquiterpenes
• Triterpenoids
• Polyphenols
• Fatty acids (oleic acid, linoleic acid)
• Glycosides
  
  

Guna (Properties):

• Rasa (Taste): Tikta (bitter), Katu (pungent)
• Virya (Potency): Ushna (hot)
• Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Katu (pungent)
  
  

Uses:

1. Cognitive Health: Enhances memory, learning, and intellectual abilities.
2. Nervous System: Acts as a nervine tonic, improving overall nervous system function.
3. Mental Health: Alleviates anxiety, stress, and depression.
4. Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation and pain, useful in treating arthritis and rheumatism.
5. Digestive Health: Improves digestion and alleviates gastrointestinal disorders.
6. General Tonic: Boosts overall vitality and strength.
   
   

Mode of Action: Jyotishmati’s cognitive-enhancing properties are attributed to its ability to enhance cholinergic function and promote the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine. The alkaloids and sesquiterpenes in Jyotishmati improve synaptic plasticity and protect against neurodegeneration. Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce inflammation and pain, making it beneficial for conditions like arthritis. The herb also acts as a digestive aid by stimulating digestive enzymes and improving gastrointestinal health.

Home Remedies:

1. For Enhanced Memory: Take 5-10 drops of Jyotishmati seed oil with warm milk daily in the morning.
2. For Stress Relief: Mix 1 teaspoon of Jyotishmati powder with honey and consume it twice a day.
3. For Joint Pain: Apply Jyotishmati seed oil externally on the affected joints and massage gently.
4. For Digestive Health: Mix Jyotishmati powder with a little warm water and take 1 teaspoon after meals to aid digestion.
   
   

Dosage:

• Powder: 1-3 grams, twice a day with warm water or as directed by an Ayurvedic practitioner.
• Oil: 5-10 drops, once or twice a day mixed with warm milk or as directed.
• Decoction: 50-100 ml, once or twice a day.
  
  

Note: Dosage may vary based on individual health conditions and should be taken under the supervision of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner.

Jyotishmati is a highly valued herb in Ayurveda, known for its significant therapeutic benefits, particularly in enhancing cognitive functions, improving mental health, and promoting overall well-being.