Panas (Artocarpus heterophyllus) in Ayurveda: A Comprehensive Analysis

Introduction

Panas, commonly known as Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus), is a tropical fruit recognized in Ayurveda for its significant nutritional and medicinal properties. It is categorized as a Rasayana (rejuvenative) herb that balances Vata and Pitta doshas while nourishing the body.

Among its numerous medicinal uses, Panas is highly accountable in the treatment of Atisara (Diarrhea). This article delves into its Ayurvedic significance, therapeutic actions, pharmacognosy, and home remedies.

1. Primary Disease Treated: Atisara (Diarrhea)

Pathology of Atisara in Ayurveda

Atisara (diarrhea) occurs due to an imbalance of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas, affecting the function of Pakwashaya (large intestine) and leading to excessive watery stools. Based on the dosha involvement, Atisara is classified as:

• Vataja Atisara: Frequent stools with frothy, dry texture and cramping pain.

• Pittaja Atisara: Loose stools with burning sensation and foul odor.

• Kaphaja Atisara: Mucus-laden stools with heaviness and lethargy.

• Sannipataja Atisara: A combination of all three doshas, often seen in chronic conditions.

Medicinal Actions of Panas in Atisara

• Stambhana (Astringent Action): Reduces excessive bowel movements.

• Pachana (Digestive Stimulant): Enhances digestion and restores gut balance.

• Grahi (Absorbent Action): Strengthens intestines and improves stool consistency.

• Jivaniya (Nourishing): Restores vitality lost due to dehydration.

• Rakta Shodhaka (Blood Purifier): Cleanses toxins from the digestive system.

2. Pharmacognosy of Panas (Artocarpus heterophyllus)

Botanical Description

• Botanical Name: Artocarpus heterophyllus

• Family: Moraceae

• Morphology:

  • Large tropical tree with compound leaves.

  • Yellowish-green fruit with a fibrous interior and numerous seeds.

  • Found in warm, humid climates across Asia.

3. Mode of Action in Ayurveda

• Dosha Impact: Panas pacifies Vata and Pitta while slightly increasing Kapha.

• Dhatu Impact: Acts primarily on Rasa (Plasma), Rakta (Blood), and Mamsa (Muscle) Dhatus.

• Srotas (Channels): Strengthens Annavaha Srotas (Digestive System), reducing excessive peristalsis and diarrhea.

4. Different Names in Various Languages

• Sanskrit: Panas

• Hindi: Kathal

• Tamil: Pala

• Telugu: Panasa

• Bengali: Kanthal

• Marathi: Fanas

• Kannada: Halasu

5. Chemical Constituents

• Flavonoids: Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects

• Tannins: Astringent and anti-diarrheal properties

• Carotenoids: Enhances immunity and skin health

• Saponins: Detoxifying and antimicrobial benefits

• Alkaloids: Helps in nervous system balance

• Phenolic compounds: Blood-purifying and hepatoprotective

6. Ten Diseases and Conditions Where It Is Used

1. Atisara (Diarrhea): Regulates bowel movements and restores hydration.

2. Arsha (Hemorrhoids): Reduces swelling and bleeding in piles.

3. Panduroga (Anemia): Enhances blood formation and improves hemoglobin levels.

4. Kushta (Skin Disorders): Detoxifies blood and aids in treating skin ailments.

5. Shotha (Inflammation): Anti-inflammatory action reduces swelling.

6. Daha (Burning Sensation): Cooling properties help in Pitta-related heat issues.

7. Yakrit Vikara (Liver Disorders): Improves liver function and bile secretion.

8. Mutrakruchra (Urinary Disorders): Acts as a diuretic and soothes urinary tract infections.

9. Kasa (Cough): Acts as an expectorant in productive cough.

10. Prameha (Diabetes): Seeds help regulate blood sugar levels.

7. Ayurvedic Medications Containing Panas

1. Panas Beej Churna

2. Bilwadi Churna

3. Kutajarishta

4. Dadimadi Ghrita

5. Grahani Gutika

6. Panchamrita Parpati

7. Chandanasava

8. Talisadi Churna

9. Draksharishta

10. Arjunarishta

8. Home Remedies Using Panas

• For Diarrhea:

  • Mix jackfruit seed powder with honey and consume twice daily.

• For Anemia:

  • Drink fresh jackfruit pulp juice mixed with jaggery.

• For Liver Detoxification:

  • Boil jackfruit leaves in water and drink on an empty stomach.

• For Skin Glow:

  • Apply mashed ripe jackfruit pulp with turmeric on the skin.

9. Harmful Effects and Contraindications

• May Increase Kapha: Should be avoided in excessive mucus-related conditions.

• Difficult to Digest: Should be consumed in moderation, especially in weak digestion.

• Not Recommended for Diabetics in Excess: Ripe fruit contains high sugar content.

• Avoid in Pregnancy: Overconsumption may cause digestive discomfort.

10. Panas as a Vishtambhi Dravya

Vishtambhi Dravyas refer to substances that have a binding effect on stools, which is essential in treating diarrhea and other digestive disorders. Panas fits into this category due to its:

• Astringent properties that reduce excessive bowel movements.

• Ability to balance gut flora, preventing loose stools.

• Nourishing effect, restoring strength after digestive ailments.

Conclusion

Panas (Artocarpus heterophyllus) is an excellent medicinal fruit in Ayurveda, particularly effective in treating Atisara (Diarrhea) due to its astringent, digestive, and nourishing properties. It is widely used in Ayurvedic formulations and home remedies for various digestive, hepatic, and inflammatory conditions. However, moderation is key to avoiding digestive discomfort and Kapha aggravation.