Medicinal property of Nirgundi

Abstract

Pithecellobium dulce has been utilized by antiquated individuals in treating various sorts of ailments due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, insecticidal and pesticidal properties. The leaves, fruits, roots and seeds possess anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activity. The leaves have anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity mediated via PG synthesis inhibition, antihistamine, membrane stabilizing and antioxidant activity. Vitex negundo is the richest source of stable Vitamin C. This richness in Vitamin C makes the Nirgundi one of the best anti-inflammatory and anti-biotic. Nirgundi is a drug of choice for problems where inflammation has occurred like- pharyngitis, tonsillitis, endometrosis and even orchitis. The recommended dose is 3-6 gm for roots, seeds and leaves powder. The plant products of V. negundo are variously reported to possess insecticidal activity against stored product pests, mosquito larvae, house flies and tobacco leaf eating larvae. Leaf oil of the plant is shown to have repellent action against stored product pests. Nirgundi cures indigestion, brings down temperature, and is particularly recommended in typhoid. To control lice, leaves of nagod (V. negundo) are heaped in the poultry farm. It is believed that the smell of the nagod leaves repels lice. Leaves also cures sprain, headache,abdominal gas and pain, fever, toothache, asthma, cough, ulcers, boils and wounds.