Krishnabeej (Ipomoea hederacea) in Ayurveda Medical Science

Introduction to Krishnabeej (Ipomoea hederacea)

Krishnabeej, commonly known as Black Bindweed or Morning Glory, is a medicinal herb recognized in Ayurveda for its purgative, detoxifying, and rejuvenating properties. It belongs to the Convolvulaceae family and is used as a Sukhvirechan Dravya (mild purgative). The seeds of this plant, known as Krishnabeej, are highly valued for their ability to cleanse the digestive system, regulate metabolism, and address various health disorders, particularly those related to digestion and toxin accumulation.

Most Accountable Disease in Ayurveda: Vibandha (Constipation)

Pathology of Vibandha in Ayurveda

Vibandha (Constipation) is primarily caused by an imbalance in Vata dosha, which results in excessive dryness and hardness of stools, making elimination difficult. If Pitta dosha is also vitiated, it can lead to excessive heat in the intestines, further worsening the condition. In some cases, excessive Kapha dosha can result in sluggish digestion, leading to incomplete evacuation and toxin accumulation.

In Ayurveda, Apana Vayu (a sub-type of Vata responsible for elimination) plays a crucial role in proper bowel movement. If disturbed due to improper diet, lack of fiber, dehydration, or lifestyle factors, it leads to chronic constipation, bloating, and accumulation of Ama (toxins) in the intestines.

Medicinal Actions of Krishnabeej in Vibandha

1. Sukhvirechak (Mild Laxative) – Stimulates the intestines and promotes regular bowel movements.

2. Vatanulomana (Regulates Vata) – Helps maintain a smooth downward movement of Vata.

3. Pittashamak (Pacifies Pitta) – Reduces excessive heat and inflammation in the intestines.

4. Deepana (Appetizer) – Enhances digestive fire (Agni) and improves appetite.

5. Pachana (Carminative) – Facilitates digestion and reduces bloating.

6. Raktashodhaka (Blood Purifier) – Detoxifies the blood and eliminates toxins.

7. Krimighna (Anti-parasitic) – Helps eliminate intestinal worms and parasites.

8. Medohara (Anti-obesity) – Aids in weight management by improving metabolism.

9. Shothahara (Anti-inflammatory) – Reduces swelling and soothes the gut lining.

10. Tridoshahara (Balances all Doshas) – Primarily pacifies Vata and Pitta, but also helps in Kapha regulation.

Pharmacognosy of Krishnabeej (Ipomoea hederacea)

• Family: Convolvulaceae

• Genus: Ipomoea

• Part Used: Seeds

• Habitat: Found in tropical and subtropical regions of India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia.

• Taste (Rasa): Tikta (Bitter) and Kashaya (Astringent)

• Potency (Virya): Ushna (Hot)

• Post-Digestive Effect (Vipaka): Katu (Pungent)

• Effect on Doshas: Balances Vata and Pitta doshas

Mode of Action for Vibandha in Ayurveda and Its Dosha & Dhatu Physiological Impact

Krishnabeej primarily acts on the Purisha Vaha Srotas (excretory system), ensuring the smooth evacuation of waste from the intestines. It works on Rasa Dhatu (Plasma) and Mamsa Dhatu (Muscle tissue) by removing toxic buildup and promoting better metabolic function. By regulating Apana Vayu, it ensures proper bowel movements and prevents constipation.

Different Names of Krishnabeej in Different Languages

• Sanskrit: Krishnabeej, Kala Dana, Shyama

• Hindi: Kala Dana, Nasautiya

• Tamil: Karun Kuruvi

• Telugu: Krishna Gida

• Kannada: Kari Gida

• Malayalam: Karimani

• Bengali: Kaloshyama

• Marathi: Kala Beej

• Persian: Tukhm-e-Syah

• Arabic: Habb al-Aswad

Chemical Constituents of Krishnabeej

• Resins – Promote purgative action.

• Glycosides (Ipobscurins, Operculin, Turpethin) – Stimulate bowel movement.

• Tannins – Possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

• Alkaloids (Convolvine, Convallarin, Ipomine) – Aid in digestion and detoxification.

• Flavonoids – Offer antioxidant and immune-boosting properties.

• Mucilage – Soothes and protects the intestinal lining.

Ten Diseases and Conditions Where Krishnabeej Is Used in Ayurveda

1. Constipation (Vibandha) – Acts as a natural laxative for smooth bowel movement.

2. Piles (Arsha) – Reduces strain during defecation and alleviates hemorrhoidal pain.

3. Indigestion (Ajeerna) – Improves digestion and prevents bloating.

4. Liver Disorders (Yakrit Vikara) – Detoxifies the liver and improves bile flow.

5. Ascites (Jalodara) – Reduces fluid retention in the abdominal cavity.

6. Skin Disorders (Kushta Roga) – Purifies blood and helps manage skin diseases.

7. Obesity (Sthoulya) – Assists in weight management by regulating metabolism.

8. Gout (Vatarakta) – Reduces uric acid levels and inflammation.

9. Intestinal Worms (Krimi Roga) – Eliminates parasitic infestations in the gut.

10. Diabetes (Madhumeha) – Helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Ten Ayurvedic Medications Containing Krishnabeej

1. Avipattikar Churna – Used for acidity and constipation relief.

2. Triphala Churna – Aids in digestion and bowel cleansing.

3. Krishnabeej Lehyam – A strong purgative preparation.

4. Swadishta Virechan Churna – A natural detoxifying formula.

5. Panchakola Churna – Improves digestion and balances Vata.

6. Dashmoola Kwatha – Supports liver and digestive health.

7. Hingwashtak Churna – Used for gas and abdominal discomfort.

8. Abhayarishta – Relieves chronic constipation and indigestion.

9. Patolakaturohinyadi Kashaya – Used for detoxification.

10. Gandharvahastadi Kwatha – Treats constipation and bloating.

Home Remedies Using Krishnabeej

1. Constipation Relief: Mix 1-2 teaspoons of Krishnabeej powder with warm water before bedtime.

2. Piles Treatment: Take Krishnabeej with Triphala to ease hemorrhoidal pain.

3. Liver Detox: Consume Krishnabeej powder with buttermilk.

4. Cholesterol Control: Take Krishnabeej with lemon water.

5. Weight Loss Aid: Mix Krishnabeej with honey and warm water.

6. Gas and Bloating: Drink Krishnabeej tea after meals.

7. Blood Sugar Regulation: Consume Krishnabeej with fenugreek powder.

8. Skin Detox: Apply a paste of Krishnabeej and neem powder on the skin.

9. Fever Relief: Mix Krishnabeej with giloy and turmeric.

10. IBS Management: Drink Krishnabeej with buttermilk and rock salt.

Harmful Effects and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Should be taken under medical supervision.

• Chronic Use: Prolonged usage may cause dependency.

• Dehydration: Excessive consumption may lead to loss of electrolytes.

Relevance as Sukhvirechan Dravya in Ayurveda

Krishnabeej is classified as a Sukhvirechan Dravya due to its ability to facilitate gentle bowel movements and detoxification without excessive irritation.