asthma (effect shortlived), laryngitis.
Tylophora indica (Burm. f.) Merrill. 679
Key application In acute catarrh of the respiratory tract with cough and hoarseness; acute, mild inflammation of the oral and pharyngeal mucosa. Contraindicated during
pregnancy and nursing. (German Commission E.)
The leaves and flowers contain flavonoids including rutin, hyperoside and isoquercetin; pyrrolizidine alkaloids including senkirkine and tussilagine (about 0.015%); mucilage (about 8%) consisting of p olysaccharides based on glucose, galactose, fructose, arabinose and xylose; inulin, tannins.
Polysaccharides are anti-inflammatory and immuno-stimulating, as well as demulcent. Flavonoids also have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic action. Pyrrolizidine alkaloids have caused hepatotoxicity in rats fed daily on high doses, but not on daily low dose regimes. These are largely destroyed when the herb is boiled.
The leaf contains an inhibitor of platelet activating factor (PAF). The PAF inhibitor can account for Colts- foot’s efficacy in asthma. The constituent, tussilagone has respiratory stimulant and cardiovascular (including pressor) activities. In animal studies, Coltsfoot is reported to have a pressor effect similar to dop amine but without tachyphylasis. (Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2007.)
Tylophora fasciculata
Buch.-Ham ex Wight.
Habitat Sub-Himalayas tract from Uttar Pradesh to Meghalaya and in central and Peninsular India.
Ayurvedic Go-chandanaa.
Action Toxic. Used as a substitute for Cephaelis ipecacuanha as emetic, purgative and febrifuge; externally on unhealthy ulcers and wounds.
Tylophora indica
(Burm. f.) Merrill.
Synonym T. asthamatica Wight &
Am.
Family Asclepiadaceae.
Habitat Assam, West Bengal, Orissa and Peninsular India.
English Emetic Swallow Wort, Indian or Country Ipecacuanha.
Ayurvedic Antamuula, Muulini, Arkaparni.
Siddha/Tamil Nay Palai, Nangilaippiratti.
