Abstract

JATIPHALA (MYRISTICA FRAGRANS HOUTT.) – A REVIEW FROM VEDIC ERA AND SAMHITA

Dr. Joshi Nilesh Narendra* and Dr. Sangoram Apoorva Milind

ABSTRACT

Indian medicinal system of Ayurveda, strongly emphasises use of herbal medicine including various aromatic herbs which are commonly in use. Jatiphala (Myristica fragrans Houtt.) or Nutmeg one of it, is an effective household remedy useful in various health ailments. Pleasant smell gives it the name ‘Jati’ and as seed is available by name ‘phala’ it is called as Jatiphala. It is an important spice, which is nearly daily used in Indian kitchens. Jatiphala being mentioned in Indian literature since oldest known era of ‘Veda’, keeps own importance because of the specific properties. For the first time Jatiphala was mentioned for medicinal purpose in medieval period as Jatiphaladi choorna for ‘Kaasa’ by Acharya Shodhala in his ‘Gada nigraha’ (1200 AD) and as a single herbal remedy for its action on Vyanga (Melasma) by Acharya Bhavamishra in Bhav Prakasha Nighnatu and Acharya Bhoj in Raja Martanda. This Traditionally useful medicine for its aphrodisiac action, antidiarrhoeal property, hypopigmentation activity in melasma lesions etc. is also been proven on scientific basis for its antimicrobial[1], antidiarrhoeal[2], hypoglycemic and antidiabetic[3] activities, antioxidant properties[4] and activity on hematological indices etc. This article reveals review of Jatiphala from era of Veda and Samhita granthas.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Jati, Phala, Kaasa, Vyanga and Samhita granthas.