Paaribhadra in Ayurveda

Botanical Name

Erythrina variegata

Family

Fabaceae

Description

Paaribhadra, also known as Indian Coral Tree, is a medium-sized deciduous tree that can grow up to 15-20 meters in height. The tree has a distinctive bark with dark, smooth patches and a wide-spreading canopy. Its leaves are trifoliate, and it produces bright red or orange flowers, which are large and showy.

Occurrence

Paaribhadra is native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. It is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, growing in forests, on riverbanks, and in coastal areas.

Chemical Constituents

The main active constituents of Erythrina variegata include:

• Erythrinine: An alkaloid known for its sedative and muscle relaxant properties.
• Erythramine: Another alkaloid with hypotensive and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Isoflavones: Compounds with antioxidant and estrogenic activity.
• Tannins: Astringent compounds that have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Guna (Qualities)

• Rasa (Taste): Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya)
• Virya (Potency): Cooling (Shita)
• Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Pungent (Katu)
• Guna (Properties): Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)

Uses

Paaribhadra is used in Ayurveda for its various medicinal properties:

• Skin Disorders: Treats conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and fungal infections.
• Fever: Acts as an antipyretic to reduce fever.
• Respiratory Ailments: Used to treat asthma, bronchitis, and cough.
• Wound Healing: Applied externally for its antiseptic and healing properties.
• Sedative: Used to alleviate anxiety and induce sleep.

Mode of Action

Paaribhadra works through its sedative, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. The alkaloids erythrinine and erythramine help in relaxing muscles, reducing inflammation, and lowering blood pressure. The cooling and astringent qualities make it effective in treating skin disorders and fevers.

Home Remedies

• Skin Treatment: A paste made from the bark or leaves can be applied to the affected areas to treat skin conditions.
• Fever Reduction: A decoction made from the leaves can be taken to reduce fever.
• Respiratory Relief: An infusion of the flowers can be consumed to alleviate respiratory issues.

Dosage

The dosage of Paaribhadra varies based on the condition being treated and the form in which it is administered. Typical dosages include:

• Decoction: 10-20 ml, taken 1-2 times a day.
• Powder: 1-3 grams, mixed with water or honey, taken once or twice a day.
• Paste: Applied externally as needed.

Caution

• Toxicity: Paaribhadra is generally safe when used appropriately. Overuse can lead to excessive sedation and hypotension.
• Contraindications: Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to its sedative effects.
• Side Effects: In rare cases, it may cause dizziness or gastrointestinal discomfort if taken in large quantities.

Diseases and Conditions Treated with Paaribhadra

1. Kushta (Skin Diseases)

   • Conditions: Psoriasis, Eczema, Acne, Leprosy.
   • Explanation: Paaribhadra purifies the blood and alleviates Pitta and Kapha-induced skin conditions.

2. Jwara (Fever)

   • Conditions: Chronic Fever, Intermittent Fevers.
   • Explanation: Its antipyretic properties help reduce fevers, especially those linked with Pitta aggravation.

3. Krimi Roga (Parasitic Infestations)

   • Conditions: Intestinal Worms.
   • Explanation: The herb has anthelmintic properties, making it effective in expelling parasites.

4. Rakta Vikara (Blood Disorders)

   • Conditions: Toxemia, Hematological Imbalances.
   • Explanation: Paaribhadra acts as a blood purifier, reducing toxins and alleviating related disorders.

5. Shotha (Inflammation and Edema)

   • Conditions: Swollen Joints, Generalized Edema.
   • Explanation: Its anti-inflammatory properties help in managing swelling and inflammation.

6. Pandu (Anemia)

   • Conditions: Iron Deficiency Anemia, Weakness.
   • Explanation: Paaribhadra stimulates blood production and helps in managing Pitta-related anemia.

7. Prameha (Urinary Disorders)

   • Conditions: Diabetes, Frequent Urination.
   • Explanation: It helps regulate blood sugar levels and improves kidney function.

Ayurvedic Formulations Containing Paaribhadra

1. Paaribhadra Kashaya

   • Indications: Chronic Fever, Skin Disorders, Intestinal Worms.
   • Explanation: A decoction prepared from Paaribhadra for blood purification and fever reduction.

2. Krimighna Gana Formulations

   • Indications: Worm Infestations, Digestive Disturbances.
   • Explanation: Formulations that eliminate parasitic worms, with Paaribhadra as a key ingredient.

3. Raktaprasadana Churna

   • Indications: Blood Purification, Skin Diseases.
   • Explanation: A powdered formulation for detoxifying the blood and alleviating Kapha-Pitta imbalances.

4. Panchatikta Ghrita

   • Indications: Chronic Skin Conditions, Wound Healing.
   • Explanation: A ghee-based preparation containing Paaribhadra for managing stubborn skin issues.

5. Nimbaadi Taila

   • Indications: External Application for Skin Diseases.
   • Explanation: Paaribhadra is used as an ingredient for its anti-inflammatory and detoxifying effects.

Harmful Effects and Precautions of Paaribhadra

1. Gastrointestinal Distress

   • Explanation: Overuse may cause nausea or diarrhea due to its bitter and astringent nature.

2. Pregnancy and Lactation

   • Explanation: It should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation, as it may have uterine-stimulating effects.

3. Hypoglycemia

   • Explanation: Caution is advised in diabetic patients, as it may lower blood sugar levels excessively.

4. Allergic Reactions

   • Explanation: Some individuals may develop rashes or other allergic symptoms due to topical or internal use.

5. Excessive Dryness

   • Explanation: Its Ruksha (dry) quality may aggravate Vata dosha in individuals predisposed to dryness or coldness.
     
     

Conclusion

Paaribhadra (Erythrina variegata) is a valuable medicinal tree in Ayurveda, known for its diverse therapeutic benefits, particularly in treating skin disorders, fever, respiratory ailments, and providing sedative effects. While generally safe, it should be used under the guidance of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner to ensure proper dosage and effectiveness.