Peet Karveer (Nerium indicum var. yellow) - description, dosage, home remedies
Peet Karveer (Nerium indicum var. yellow), also commonly known as Yellow Oleander, is a highly valued yet toxic plant in Ayurveda, recognized for its potent medicinal effects. It is used cautiously in Ayurveda, primarily for skin disorders, anti-inflammatory applications, and stimulating cardiac activity under strict medical supervision.
1. Botanical Name
- Nerium indicum var. yellow
2. Family
3. Description
Peet Karveer is a small to medium-sized, evergreen shrub with glossy, narrow, lanceolate leaves and bright yellow flowers that are funnel-shaped and fragrant. All parts of the plant, including flowers, leaves, and roots, contain potent toxic compounds.
4. Occurrence
Peet Karveer is found in tropical and subtropical climates, thriving in regions such as India, Southeast Asia, and parts of the Mediterranean. It grows well in sunny, well-drained soils.
5. Chemical Constituents
The major active compounds in Peet Karveer include:
- Cardiac Glycosides: Thevetin, peruvoside, neriin, oleandrin
- Flavonoids: Rutin, quercetin
- Triterpenoids: Ursolic acid
- Alkaloids and Saponins
These compounds account for the plant’s strong therapeutic effects but also contribute to its toxicity.
6. Guna (Properties)
- Rasa (Taste): Tikta (bitter), Katu (pungent)
- Guna (Quality): Ruksha (dry), Tikshna (sharp)
- Virya (Potency): Ushna (hot)
- Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Katu (pungent)
7. Uses in Ayurveda
Due to its strong properties and toxicity, Peet Karveer is used in very controlled dosages and is mainly prescribed by Ayurvedic practitioners. Its therapeutic uses include:
- Skin Disorders: Useful for conditions like eczema, ringworm, and scabies when applied externally.
- Anti-inflammatory: Effective in reducing joint pain and swelling.
- Antimicrobial: Helps in treating bacterial and fungal infections, especially on the skin.
- Cardiac Tonic: In minute, strictly regulated doses, it has been used in traditional contexts for heart stimulation, though this is rare due to high toxicity.
8. Mode of Action
The cardiac glycosides in Peet Karveer work by impacting heart muscles, increasing heart contraction force. Its sharp and heating qualities make it suitable for conditions with excess Kapha, providing relief in skin infections, and respiratory issues. However, due to its potency, it is rarely administered orally.
9. Home Remedies
Due to Peet Karveer’s toxicity, home remedies are not recommended. Its traditional applications require precise formulation and handling by experienced Ayurvedic practitioners only.
10. Dosage
Peet Karveer’s dosage is extremely specific and must only be determined by a practitioner:
- External Use: Applied as a paste or oil for skin ailments in very small amounts.
- Internal Use: Rarely used internally due to toxicity risks and is only used under strict professional supervision.
11. Caution
- Highly Toxic: Peet Karveer contains cardiac glycosides, making it poisonous if ingested improperly.
- Pregnancy and Children: Not suitable for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, or young children.
- Heart Conditions: Individuals with heart disease should avoid it due to its intense effect on cardiac function.
- Handling Precautions: Always use gloves when handling Peet Karveer to prevent skin irritation or poisoning.
Peet Karveer (Nerium indicum var. yellow), a variety of Nerium oleander, holds significant importance in Ayurveda for its therapeutic uses, which stem from its potent pharmacological properties. Below is a detailed explanation based on the Ayurvedic principles regarding its diseases, uses, formulations, dosha-balancing properties, and precautions:
1. Diseases and Conditions Treated with Peet Karveer in Ayurveda
Peet Karveer (Yellow Oleander) is a highly potent plant used in Ayurveda for various medicinal purposes. Its uses are based on its ability to balance different doshas, particularly Pitta and Kapha. Below are the key diseases and conditions where it is utilized:
Skin Disorders: Peet Karveer is particularly effective in treating skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and ulcers. Its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and detoxifying properties make it beneficial for treating skin rashes, abscesses, and leprosy (Kushtha).
Fever: It is known for its antipyretic (fever-reducing) properties. Peet Karveer is used to manage various types of fever, especially Pitta-related fevers such as Jwara.
Cardiac Disorders: It is traditionally used in managing heart conditions, including arrhythmias and heart failure. It has cardiotonic effects, which help in strengthening the heart and regulating its rhythm.
Digestive Issues: Its bitter and astringent properties aid in improving digestion. Peet Karveer is used in the treatment of indigestion (Agnimandya), flatulence (Vata disorders), and even to reduce Ama (toxic substances in the body).
Toxicity and Poisoning: Peet Karveer is also used in Ayurvedic detoxification therapies (Shodhana). It is considered useful in cases of poisoning, though only under strict professional guidance due to its toxicity.
Respiratory Conditions: Its antimicrobial properties make it useful for treating respiratory disorders like asthma and chronic bronchitis (Pratishyaya and Shwasa). It can reduce Kapha accumulation in the lungs and airways.
Wounds and Ulcers: The plant’s antibacterial and antiseptic qualities make it a common remedy for wound healing, particularly in chronic ulcers and cuts that are difficult to heal.
Scientific Validation:
- Anti-inflammatory: Scientific studies have validated the anti-inflammatory properties of Oleander extracts, which align with its use in skin disorders and fever.
- Cardiotonic Effects: Oleandrin, a cardiac glycoside found in Peet Karveer, has been shown to have positive effects on heart function. However, this should be used with caution due to its potential toxicity.
- Antimicrobial Properties: Research supports its antimicrobial properties, which are beneficial in treating respiratory and skin infections.
- Detoxification: Studies confirm that Nerium indicum is effective in cleansing the body by aiding in the removal of toxins.
2. Ayurvedic Formulations Containing Peet Karveer
Peet Karveer is included in several traditional Ayurvedic medicines, often in specific formulations designed to address different ailments. Here are some key formulations and their indications:
- Rajayapana Churna: Used for treating chronic fever, malaria, and other fever-related diseases. It balances Pitta and Kapha.
- Karveerarishta: This formulation is used for managing heart conditions, including palpitations and arrhythmia. It also has detoxifying effects on the liver and digestive system.
- Gulguluthikta Ghrita: A ghee-based preparation used to treat skin diseases, especially those related to Pitta and Kapha imbalances, such as eczema and psoriasis.
- Kasisadi Taila: A medicated oil used for skin conditions, especially leprosy and other chronic skin ailments, and wounds that do not heal easily.
Each of these medicines contains Peet Karveer to address specific dosha imbalances, particularly Pitta (due to its heat-producing qualities) and Kapha (in relation to its purgative action).
3. Relevance of Peet Karveer in Ayurveda Towards Normalizing Dosha Behavior
Peet Karveer plays a significant role in the normalization of doshas, especially Pitta and Kapha:
Pitta Dosha: Due to its Tikta (bitter) and Ushna (hot) qualities, Peet Karveer is effective in cooling down excess Pitta, which can cause inflammation, heat, and redness in the body. It is thus used in managing conditions like Pitta-type fever, skin rashes, and gastrointestinal disorders related to heat.
Kapha Dosha: Its Kashaya (astringent) and Tikta (bitter) qualities help reduce Kapha imbalance, which can lead to conditions like respiratory issues, fluid retention, and sluggish digestion. Peet Karveer helps clear the respiratory tract and manage conditions like asthma and chronic bronchitis by expelling excess mucus.
Vata Dosha: Although Peet Karveer is not directly associated with Vata balancing, it may have a secondary effect by reducing the complications caused by Kapha and Pitta imbalances, which can indirectly affect Vata when the doshas are in a state of disarray.
4. Harmful Effects Associated with Peet Karveer Intake
Despite its numerous therapeutic benefits, Peet Karveer is a potent plant and must be used with great caution:
Toxicity: The primary concern with Peet Karveer is its toxicity, particularly in overdoses. The active compounds, such as oleandrin, are cardiac glycosides, which can cause severe poisoning if not used correctly. Symptoms of poisoning include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and irregular heartbeat. It can lead to cardiotoxicity and even death in extreme cases.
Contraindications: It is contraindicated in pregnant and lactating women, as well as in children due to its toxicity. Individuals with heart conditions should avoid its use unless prescribed by an experienced practitioner.
Drug Interactions: Peet Karveer may interact with medications like cardiac drugs (e.g., digoxin), as it affects heart rhythm. It should not be taken alongside other heart medications without supervision.
Skin Irritation: Topical application, though effective for treating skin conditions, may cause irritation, burning, or redness in sensitive individuals.
Conclusion
Peet Karveer (Nerium indicum var. yellow) is a powerful and multifaceted plant in Ayurveda, effective in treating various diseases, especially those related to Pitta and Kapha imbalances. Its scientific validation in areas like inflammation, antimicrobial properties, and cardiotonic effects supports its wide use in traditional medicine. However, due to its toxicity, it should only be used under expert guidance, especially in higher doses or potent formulations.
