Citrus medica (Mātuluṅga)

Botanical Name:

Citrus medica Family: Rutaceae Commonly known as citron, Mātuluṅga is a revered plant in Ayurveda for its medicinal properties and its distinct sour and aromatic qualities.

Different Names in Various Languages:

• Sanskrit: Mātuluṅga, Bījapūra

• Hindi: Bijora

• Tamil: Peria Elumichai

• Telugu: Pedda Nimmakaya

• Malayalam: Kattunaranga

• Kannada: Dodda Nimbe

• Bengali: Bara Lebu

• Gujarati: Bijora

• Urdu: Turanj

• English: Citron

• Persian: Torange

Cultivation and Availability:

Citrus medica thrives in tropical and subtropical climates. It prefers well-drained, sandy-loam soil with a pH of 6-7.5. It is highly sensitive to frost and water stagnation.

• Propagation: Through seeds and cuttings.

• Regions: Found abundantly in India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, and the Mediterranean. In India, it is cultivated in regions like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.

Description:

• Tree: A small, evergreen shrub or tree growing up to 2.5-5 meters in height.

• Leaves: Broad, green, and ovate with a strong citrus aroma.

• Flowers: White or purplish flowers, fragrant, and borne in clusters.

• Fruit: Large, oblong to round, with a thick, rough, and fragrant rind. The pulp is acidic and sparsely juicy.

• Rind: Thick, fleshy, and a source of essential oils.

Occurrence:

Citrus medica is native to India and Southeast Asia and thrives in warmer climates. It is commonly found in orchards, gardens, and wild forests in subtropical regions.

Chemical Constituents:

• Essential Oils: Limonene, citral, citronellal.

• Flavonoids: Hesperidin, naringin.

• Alkaloids: Synephrine.

• Organic Acids: Citric acid, malic acid.

• Vitamins: Vitamin C.

• Other Compounds: Pectin, carbohydrates, and terpenes.

Ayurvedic Analysis:

• Rasa (Taste): Amla (sour), Madhura (sweet)

• Guna (Quality): Laghu (light), Ruksha (dry)

• Virya (Potency): Ushna (hot)

• Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Madhura (sweet)

• Dosha Impact:

  • Pacifies Vata and Kapha.

  • May mildly aggravate Pitta if consumed excessively.

Diseases and Conditions Where It Can Be Used in Ayurveda:

1. Digestive Disorders: Indigestion, bloating, nausea, and loss of appetite.

2. Respiratory Disorders: Asthma, cold, and cough.

3. Skin Disorders: Fungal infections, wounds, and acne.

4. Cardiovascular Health: Strengthens the heart and improves circulation.

5. Urinary Disorders: Helps in clearing urinary obstructions.

6. General Health: Acts as a detoxifier and rejuvenator.

Ayurvedic Medications Containing Citrus medica:

1. Mātuluṅgādi Taila: Used in massage for treating joint pain and inflammation.

2. Mātuluṅga Swarasa: Consumed to alleviate indigestion.

3. Dādimavaleha: A herbal jam for digestive health.

4. Sitopaladi Churna: Beneficial in respiratory conditions.

Dosage:

• Juice: 10-20 ml.

• Powder (fruit rind): 1-3 g.

• Decoction: 20-50 ml.

Relevance in Normalizing Dosha Physiology:

• Vata: The sour and sweet taste, along with the light and hot properties, helps stabilize Vata disorders.

• Kapha: Its drying and hot qualities reduce excess Kapha.

• Pitta: Can mildly aggravate Pitta if overused, but in moderation, it balances digestion and metabolism.

Relevance in Normalizing Dhatu Physiology:

• Rasa Dhatu: Enhances taste perception and digestion.

• Rakta Dhatu: Improves circulation and purifies the blood.

• Meda Dhatu: Helps in breaking down excess fat and toxins.

Pharmacological Significance in Ayurveda:

1. Digestive: Enhances appetite and alleviates indigestion.

2. Antimicrobial: Effective against bacterial and fungal infections.

3. Expectorant: Clears respiratory passages.

4. Antioxidant: Reduces oxidative stress.

5. Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation in joints and tissues.

Home Remedies:

1. Indigestion: Mix fresh juice of Mātuluṅga with a pinch of rock salt and consume before meals.

2. Cough: Combine rind powder with honey and consume 1-2 g twice daily.

3. Skin Care: Apply a paste of rind powder with turmeric for fungal infections.

4. Hair Care: Rinse hair with a decoction of the rind to control dandruff.

Harmful Effects and Contraindications:

• Overconsumption may cause hyperacidity or Pitta aggravation.

• Avoid in cases of ulcers or severe acid reflux.

• Use cautiously during pregnancy and lactation.

• Excessive topical application of rind oil may cause skin irritation.

Conclusion:

Citrus medica, or Mātuluṅga, is a multifaceted medicinal plant with profound applications in Ayurveda. Its ability to balance doshas, nourish dhatus, and treat a variety of conditions makes it invaluable. When used appropriately, it enhances health and well-being. However, mindful usage is crucial to avoid potential side effects or contraindications.