Mandukaparni (Centella asiatica)

Mandukaparni botanically known as Centella asiatica is the most significant Medhya Dravya. Mandukaparni belongs to the Apiacfamily, and it is also famous for the Gotu-Kala name.

Mandukaparni (Gotu Kala): The Nootropic and Cognitive Drug

Introduction

Mandukaparni botanically known as Centella asiatica is the most significant Medhya Dravya. Mandukaparni belongs to the Apiacfamily, and it is also famous for the Gotu-Kala name. The plant is known as Mandukaparni as its leaves resemble the leaves of a frog. According to Ayurvedic classical texts, Mandukaparni is cold in potency, laxative, bitter, astringent and sweet, sweet in post-digestive effect, light in action, cold in potency, acts as a brain tonic and tissue vitalizer, and promotes life expectancy. It is good for the voice, boosts memory, and cures skin diseases, anemia, urinary tract diseases, vitiated Rakta, cough, poisons, edema, and fever. Acharya Charaka has described four major Medhya Rasayana i.e. Mandukaparni, Guduchi, Mulethi, and Sankhpushpi, Mandukparni is included in it. After Charaka Samhita, modern research and Nighantu signify the importance of Mandukparni. Recent research revealed that Mandukparni has various active ingredients like asiaticoside, brahmoside, brahminoside, hydrocotylin, thankuniside, thankunic acid, madagascaric acid, brahmic acid, centic, centallic acid, etc due to which it exhibits various pharmacological activities like sedative, hypotensive, memory enhancer, anti- depressant activities, etc.

Basonym of Mandukaparni

मण्डूक इव पर्णाम अस्य |
मण्डूक आकृति पर्णाम अस्य |
यद्वा मण्डूक इवोततानोदरं पर्णम अस्य |

Leaves of Mandukparni resembles frog in its shape and it is a runner.

Synonyms of Mandukaparni

According to Morphology

मण्डूकि– मण्डूकमिवगच्छति इति |

Mandukparni has got runner and the growth pattern resembles how frogs jump.

According to Properties and Action

महौषधि – महती औषधि: |

Mandukparni is one among the best medicinal plants.

दिव्या– दिविभवा | मनोज्ञ तत्व गुण त्वात |

Mandukparni is appreciated by all owing to its extraordinary qualities.

दिव्या तेजा – दिव्यम देव तुल्यम तेजो यस्या: |

Mandukparni is having best qualities hence it is given great importance.

त्वाष्ट्री – त्वष्टा अधिष्ठा श्री देवता अस्या: |

Mandukparni is believed to be an abode of Goddess Laxmi.

सरस्वती |

Mandukparni imparts good knowledge by enhancing memory.

Regional Names of Mandukaparni

Indian Pennywort (English)
Khulakudi (Hindi)
Vondelaga (Kannada)
Kutakam (Malayalam)
Karivana (Marathi)
Dhulkudi (Bengali)
Vallarikiri (Tamil)
Mandukabrahmi (Telegu)
Khandbrahmi (Gujrati)

Botanical Name

Centella asiatica Linn.

Centella means many and asiatica means Asia.

Family

Apiaceae (Satapushpa Kula)

Ayurveda Reference for Mandukaparni (Centella asiatica Linn.)

Scientific Classification of Mandukaparni

Kingdom	Plantae
Class	Dicotyledonae
Sub- Class	Polypetalae
Series	Calyciflorae
Order	Umbellales
Family	Apiaceae
Genus	Centella
Species	asiatica

Classification of Mandukaparni – As Per Charaka and Sushruta

Charaka: Vyasthapana Mahakshaya

Sushruta: Not mentioned in Gana

Mandukparni’s Description in Brihtrayi

Centella asiatica (Linn.) Urban, Syn. Hydrocotyle asiatica Linn. is also being used as Brahmi in some places but now it has been identified with MandukaparnI. Two other species of Hydrocotyle i.e. H. rotundifolia Roxb. And H. javanica Thunb. are also being used in some part or other as Brahmi or Mandukaparni.

Charaka	Shusruta	Vagbhata (Ashtang Hridya)
C. S. Su. 4/ 49	S. S. Chi. 7/ 24	A. H. Chi. 19/ 34
C. S. Sa. 8/ 29, 89, 94	S. S. Chi. 10/ 8	A. H. U. 1/ 9, 27, 42, 44
C. S. Chi. 1. 3/ 23	S. S. Chi. 28/ 5, 6	A. H. U. 3/ 53
C. S. Chi. 1. 4/ 5	S. S. Su. 8/ 106	A. H. U. 6/ 23, 38
C. S. Chi. 7/ 69	S. S. Sa. 10/ 45	A. H. U. 7/ 24, 34
C. S. Chi. 10/ 23, 60, 62	S. S. U. 62/ 30	A. H. U. 30/ 23
C. S. Chi. 18/ 40	S. S. Chi. 12/ 5	A. H. U. 39/ 50
	S. S. Chi. 17/ 12, 19, 27	A. H. U. 40/ 51

Mandukparni’s Description in Brihtrayi

This is somewhat like Brahmi in terms of properties and hence it has been used as such in many parts of the country. Its tribal name Vengasaga (frog’s vegetable) is also suggestive of its original name Mandukaparni.

Charaka	Shusruta	Vagbhata (Ashtang Hridya)
C. S. Su. 4/ 50	S. S. Su. 20/ 4	A. H. Su. 6/ 76
C. S. Su. 27/ 93	S. S. Su. 42/ 18	A. H. Chi. 3/ 120
C. S. Vi. 8/ 150	S. S. Su. 46/ 262, 264, 335	A. H. U. 39/ 18, 44, 164
C. S. Sa. 8/ 59, 70	S. S. Chi. 9/ 5
C. S. Chi. 1. 1/ 47, 57	S. S. Chi. 28/ 4
C. S. Chi. 1. 3/ 30
C. S. Chi. 11/ 92
C. S. Chi. 13/ 179
C. S. Chi. 23/ 224

Mandukparni’s Description in Brihtrayi as Manduki

Sushruta Samhita: S. S. U. 57/ 11

Ashtanga Hridya: A. H. Chi. 15/ 82, A. H. U. 1/ 43, A. H. U. 39/ 61

Mandukparni’s Description in Brihtrayi as Matsyak Saka / Matsyakhyaka

The identity of Matsyaksaka has not been decided with the result that in the Nighantus and the commentaries of the texts, several drug names such as Brahmi, Pattura, Andri, and Indrani have been considered as its synonyms, and the plants rightly or wrongly believed to be their sources have been indirectly suggested to be used in its place. Its utility as a nervine tonic and aquatic or semi-aquatic habitat appears to be the important features of Matsyaksaka. Some plant species growing in near-aquatic environments such as those of Hydrocotyle, Enhydra, Alternanthera, and Polygonum are consequently being used in its place. Bopadeva has mentioned that Pattura and Matsyaksaka, which are different drugs, have been used in A. H. under these very names and have no other synonyms. If this were correct, all other drug names mentioned above should be left out of consideration. Bhavamisra, while describing this drug, appears to identify it with Enhydra fluctuans Lour. Called Helanca in Bengal while Cara identifies it with Salinca which is the Bangala name for Alternanthera sessilis (Linn.) R. Br. Enhydra, also considered a nervine tonic in Bengal is, thus, better entitled to be identified as Matsyaksaka.

Charaka Samhita: C. S. Chi. 1. 3/ 23

Sushruta Samhita: S. S. Sa. 10/ 68

Ashtanga Hridya: A. H. U. 1/ 48, A. H. U. 39/ 50

Historical Background of Mandukaparni

In the Vedic period, Atharva Parisista (A. P. 1/ 44/ 10) and other various texts quote Brahmi as Medhya Dravya. The controversy between Brahmi and Mandukaparni is never-ending. Charaka enumerated Indri and Brahmi together in the Prajasthapana group which may be Centella asiatica and B. monnieri respectively. The Nighantu writers did try to remove the controversy by identifying Brahmi and Manduki separately. Sodhala considered that the former is a superior variety to the latter. Bhavamishra quotes that Mandukaparni has properties similar to those of Brahmi. At least now there should be no controversy in their identity since both are in abundant use as Medhya Rasayanas. The herb “Manduki ” is known since the Vedic period and is considered one of the important Ausadhis (Sounakiya Atharva Veda 18/ 3/ 60, Satapatha Brahmana 9/ 1/ 2/ 27). Caraka described it especially as ‘Medhya Rasayana’ and the same is accepted by all the Ayurvedic texts. There are certain herbs with similar names which need to be differentiated from Mandukaparni viz., Mandukaparna is Syonaka & Mandukaparnika is Manjistha.

Controversy Regarding Mandukaparni

Mandukaparni and Brahmi are often confusing scholars. Bhavamisra described Brahmi and Mandukaparni as possessing similar properties. Dalhana several times quoted Mandukaparni and Brahmi as synonymous. But Sushruta mentioned these two plants separately under Rasayana Bapalal Vaidya stating that Gujarati Brahmi, is the Mandukaparni of the classical literature, while Bengali Brahmi is Bacopa Monnieri. Both herbs are used as Medhya Rasayanas. The controversy about Mandukaparni and Brahmi might begin at a later stage. In Dhanvantari Nighantu and Raja Nighantu Suvarcala is used as the synonym of Mandukaparni. Sodhala described it as Manduka Brahmi. Kaiyadeva identified both plants as synonymous. After a long controversy, at present Mandukaparni and Brahmi are identified as C. asiatica and B. monnieri respectively. The controversy may be because of synonyms and similar properties. But these plants can be distinguished easily:

Criteria	Brahmi	Mandukaparni
Botanical Name	Bacopa monnieri	Centella asiatica
Family	Scrophulariaceae	Apiaceae
Types of plant	Prostate succulent herb	Prostate herb and rooting at the nodes.
Leaves	Simple, opposite, decussate, fleshy, and entire.	Reniform-shaped, usually glabrous and crenate margins.
Flowers	White or pinkish	White
Fruit and seeds	Capsule and many-seeded	Compressed

External Morphology of Centella asiatica

Habitat: Madukparni is a Trailing herb, rooting at the nodes, faintly aromatic.
Leaves: Leaves of Mandukparni are young, finely pubescent. Leaves long petiolate reniform, crenate or dentate, deeply cordate, stipulate. Leaves are 0.5- 2.5 in., orbicular, often lobed, glabrous, or nearly so and shining. Stipules adnate to petioles.
Inflorescence: Racemose, simple umbels, 3 to 6 flowers in each group.
Flowers: Flowers pink or deep red; sessile. Petals ovate, acute, pink. Fruits ovate to orbicular, primary ridges prominent, vittae (oil gland) absent. Carpels are oblong, sub-cylindric, curved, much longer than broad, and slightly compressed.
Fruits: Fruits of Mandukparni are 1/8- 1/6 inch, carpels reticulate-rugose, each with 9 curvilinear sub-similar ridges and 2 within the commissure, pericarp thickened, woody, white.

Flowering and fruiting time

Plant flowers and fruits during summer or May- June.

Distribution of Centella asiatica

The plant occurs almost throughout India from the base of the Himalayas to Ceylon (up to 2,000 ft. altitude). It is found along streams, riverbeds, tanks or ponds, and moist places. Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and all tropical and subtropical regions of the world.

The Useful Part of Mandukaparni

Leaves or whole herb

Sample of Centella asiatica consisting of reniform or orbicular leaves, up to 3.5 cm long and 2 cm broad with create or lobulate margins and broadly cordate base. Upper surface glabrous, greenish-brown, lower surface greyish green, palmately veined. The leaves are borne on long wiry petioles. Mandukparni has a strong odor and tastes bitter. The fresh herb consists of long slender slightly succulent, creeping stems with long internodes and bearing rosettes of long-stalked, frequently cupped leaves, crowded at nodes underside of which gives out fibrous roots.

Varieties of Mandukaparni

Presently the source plant of Brahmi and Mandukparni are botanically identified and determined as Bacopa monnieri and Centella asiatica respectively. Brahmi is also classically named and considered an Aindri.

Important Phytoconstituent of Mandukaparni

The plant contains alkaloid hydrocotlin (C22H48NO8), glycoside asiaticoside (0.07- 0.12%) vellerine, white crystals, bitter, medicinally potent principle, a volatile oil in little quantity, fixed oil, resinous substance, pectic acid, ascorbic acid, and other substances. Glycosides and volatile oil are generally found in the green leaves of plant drugs. Dried herbs contain centoic acid. (C22H48NO8), and centellic acid (C30H4O6). Centella asiatica (Linn.) The urban plant contains various active principles and other constituents which are under detailed phytochemical screening and allied studies.

Recent Research on Mandukaparni

To evaluate the specific effect of Centella asiatica (CA), vitamins, glycolic acid, and their mixture preparations to stimulate collagen and fibronectin synthesis in cultured human fibroblast cells. The results showed that CA, glycolic acid, and vitamins A, E, and C significantly stimulate collagen and fibronectin synthesis in the fibroblast. Hashim P. The effect of Centella asiatica, vitamins, glycolic acid, and their mixtures preparations in stimulating collagen and fibronectin synthesis in cultured human skin fibroblast. Pak J Pharm Sci. 2014 Mar, 27 (2): 233- 7.

Nansy, E. & Harwoko, Harwoko & Pramono, Suwijiyo & Nugroho, Agung. (2015). Total flavonoid content and in vivo hypotensive effect of chloroform insoluble fraction of Centella asiatica leaf extract. International Food Research Journal. 22. 2119- 2125. The Ministry of Health of Indonesia has developed an antihypertensive Jamu formula that contains Centella asiatica leaf through a program namely “Evidence-based Jamu Development”. Reportedly, the ethyl acetate and chloroform fractions of C. asiatica leaf exhibited in vivo antihypertensive activity. The study aimed to determine the total flavonoid content in chloroform insoluble fraction of C. asiatica leaf extract (CIFCA) and to evaluate the in vivo hypotensive effect on phenylephrine-induced hypertensive rats by non-invasive tail-cuff method. The results showed that CIFCA contained a total flavonoid of 1.19± 0.01% which was equivalent to quercetin. This flavonoid fraction at the dose of 50 mg/kg showed a potent in vivo hypotensive effect by lowering blood pressure up to 150% in phenylephrine-induced rats. The ED50 values, a parameter of drug potency, of these effects on systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressure were 27.7 ± 1.52, 29.50 ± 1.61; and 27.76 ± 1.08 mg/kg, respectively. In conclusion, the chloroform insoluble fraction of C. asiatica leaf extract has the potential to develop as an antihypertensive agent.
Soumyanath, Amala & Zhong, Yong- Ping & Henson, Edward & Wadsworth, Teri & Bishop, James & Gold, Bruce & Quinn, Joseph. (2012). Centella asiatica Extract Improves Behavioral Deficits in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease: Investigation of a Possible Mechanism of Action. International Journal of Alzheimer’s disease. 2012. 381974. 10. 1155/ 2012/ 381974. Centella asiatica (CA), commonly named gotu kola, is an Ayurvedic herb used to enhance memory and nerve function. To investigate the potential use of CA in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), we examined the effects of a water extract of CA (GKW) in the Tg2576 mouse, a murine model of AD with a high β-amyloid burden. Orally administered GKW attenuated β-amyloid-associated behavioral abnormalities in these mice. In vitro, GKW protected SH-SY5Y cells and MC65 human neuroblastoma cells from toxicity induced by exogenously added and endogenously generated β-amyloid, respectively. GKW prevented intracellular β-amyloid aggregate formation in MC65 cells. GKW did not show anticholinesterase activity or protect neurons from oxidative damage and glutamate toxicity, mechanisms of current AD therapies. GKW is rich in phenolic compounds and does not contain Asiatic acid, a known CA neuroprotective triterpene. CA thus offers a unique therapeutic mechanism and novel active compounds of potential relevance to the treatment of AD.
Zhao, Yun & Shu, Ping & Zhang, Youzhi & Lin, Limin & Zhou, Haihong & Xu, Zhentian & Daqin, Suo & Xie, Anzhi & Jin, Xin. (2014). Effect of Centella asiatica on Oxidative Stress and Lipid Metabolism in Hyperlipidemic Animal Models. Oxidative medicine and cellular longevity. 2014. 154295. 10. 1155/ 2014/ 154295. Hyperlipidemia and many other metabolic diseases are related to oxidative stress. Centella asiatica is a traditional Chinese medicine whose antioxidant effect in vitro has been reported. We are interested in whether it possesses this effect in vivo and hence modulates lipid metabolism. Therefore, experiments were carried out on mice and golden hamsters regarding their antioxidant and hypolipidemic effect. We observed that a fraction (CAF3) of the ethanol extract (CAE) of Centella asiatica had a cholesterol decrease of 79% and a triglyceride decrease of 95% in the acute mice model, so CAF3 was further investigated in a high-fat-fed hamster model. It was shown that CAF3 increased SOD and GSH-Px activities and decreased MDA levels and it also improved TC, TG, LDL- C, HDL- C, AST, and ALT levels. L-CAT and SR-BI gene expression in hamsters was increased. Taken together, our data suggest that the CAF3 fraction of Centella asiatica has antioxidant and hypolipidemic properties.
The accumulation of amyloid- (3 (AR) is a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease and is known to result in neurotoxicity both in vivo and in vitro. The study demonstrated that treatment with the water extract of Centella asiatica (CAW) improves learning and memory deficits in Tg 2576 mice, an animal model of AR accumulation. Each compound not only mitigated A(B-induced cell death, but was able to attenuate A(B-induced alterations in tau expression and phosphorylation in both cell lines, as seen with CAW. Gray NE’, Morre J, Kelley J, Maier CS, Stevens JF3, Quinn JF4, Soumyanath A Caffeoylquinic Acids in Centella asiatica Protect against Amyloid-R Toxicity. J Alzheimers Dis. 2014 Jan 21.
The present study was undertaken to assess the analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of Centella asiatica leaf extracts. Studies demonstrated that Centella asiatica bears significant analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities in those models. Saha S’, Guria TZ, Singha T2, Maity TK. Evaluation of Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Chloroform and Methanol Extracts of Centella asiatica Linn. ISRN Pharmacol. 2013 Nov 21; 2013: 789613. doi 10. 1155/ 2013/ 789613. Collection 2013.
This study was to investigate the effects of Asiaticoside (AS) on memory impairment and inflammatory cytokines expression induced by transient cerebral ischemia and reperfusion in mice, as well as the potential signaling pathway. The results suggested that AS showed a neuroprotective effect against transient cerebral ischemia and reperfusion in mice, and this effect might be associated with the anti-inflammation effect of AS via inhibiting overactivation of the p38 MAPK pathway. Chen S, Yin ZJ, Jiang C, Ma ZQ, Fu Q, Qu R, Ma Sps. Asiaticoside attenuates memory impairment induced by transient cerebral ischemia-reperfusion in mice through an anti-inflammatory mechanism. Pharmacology Biochem Behav. 2014 Mar 12; 122 C: 7- 15. doi 10. 1016/ j. pbb. 2014. 03. 004.
The study was conducted to determine the antioxidant properties of two well-known memory-enhancer medicinal plants Bacopa monnieri and Centella asiatica. The study shows that regular use of Bacopa monnieri as a supplement could be more helpful compared to Centella asiatica in the treatment of neurological disorders caused by free radical damage. Meena H, Pandey HK, Pandey P, Arya MC, Ahmed Z.
Evaluation of the antioxidant activity of two important memory-enhancing medicinal plants Bacopa monnieri and Centella asiatica. Indian J Pharmacol. 2012 Jan; 44 (1): 114- 7. doi: 10. 4103/ 0253- 7613. 91880.
An acute toxicity study of Centella asiatica standardized extract ECa 233 was conducted by an oral administration of 10.0 g/ kg extract into 10 male and 10 female mice. The extract at the given dose did not cause any toxic signs or death within the observation period of 14 days. Sub-chronic toxicity study of ECa 233 has been investigated in four groups of Wistar rats, each of 24 rats (12 of each sex). The control group was orally given distilled water and three experimental groups were orally administered with ECa 233 in distilled water at the doses of 10, 100, and 1,000 mg/ kg/ day for 90 days. All ECa 233-treated rats showed no difference with regards to body weight, food consumption, and health in comparison to the control group except that female rats receiving 1,000 mg/ kg/ day of ECa 233 had significantly higher white blood cell counts than the control group (p < 0.05). However, this alteration was not associated with internal organ pathology. In addition, male rats receiving 1,000 mg/kg/day of ECa 233 had significantly higher sodium levels but still within normal range, than those of the control group (p < 0.05). Histopathological results of internal organs did not demonstrate any incidence or degree of lesions in a dose-dependent manner with the increasing dose of ECa 233. Therefore, based on the present studies it can be concluded that ECa 233 in the dose up to 10.0 g / kg produced no acute toxicity and no significant sub-chronic toxicity was observed in rats receiving 10- 1,000 mg / kg of ECa 233.
The alcoholic extract produced a tranquilizing effect in rats. It was found that the alcoholic and aqueous extracts antagonized the barium chloride-induced spasm and reduced spontaneous contraction and also caused relaxation of the musculature of the isolated ileum of the rat. The alcoholic extract was also effective against acetylcholine-induced spasms, unlike the aqueous extract. (Aithal & Sirsi, 1961).
The alcoholic extract was found to have a depressant effect in rats in toxic doses. The glucosidal fraction had a sedative effect in rats. It decreased the tone and diminished the amplitude of contractions of isolated ileum of rabbit and albino rats. In hypotension and bradycardia (Mahotra et al., 1961).
In a double-blind clinical trial in 43 normal adults, the Rasayana (anabolic) effect of the drugs was studied. It increased the mean level of RBC, blood sugar, serum cholesterol, vital capacity, and total protein. The increase of 116% was quite high and statistically significant. The drug also decreased the mean blood urea level and a moderate decrease in serum acid phosphatase was observed (Appa Rao et al., 1967, 1969).
The alcoholic extract of the entire plant was found to possess anti-protozoal activity against E. histolytica (Dhar et al., 1968).
Brahmosides were found to possess sedative action in rats equivalent to that of a minor tranquilizer. The action appeared to be mainly on the cholinergic mechanism (Ramaswamy et al., 1970)
The whole plant powder prevented the mortality rate of albino rats fed on a low protein diet (gross protein deficiency). It increases the blood protein nitrogen and prevents the fatty infiltration of the liver (Rajagopalan et al., 1970).
Diniz, Lucio & Calado, Leonardo & Sucupira Duarte, Allana & Sousa, Damião. (2023). Centella asiatica and Its Metabolite Asiatic Acid: Wound Healing Effects and Therapeutic Potential. Metabolites. 13. 276. 10. 3390/Metabo. 13020276. An intense effort has been focused on new therapeutic approaches and the development of technologies for more efficient and rapid wound healing. The research for plants used for a long time in traditional medicine in the treatment of wounds has become a promising strategy to obtain drugs therapeutically useful in acute and chronic wound management. In this context, Centella asiatica (Apiaceae) has been used to treat a variety of skin diseases, such as leprosy, lupus, varicose ulcers, eczema, and psoriasis, in Asiatic traditional medicine for thousands of years. Studies have shown that Centella asiatica extracts (CAE) display activity in tissue regeneration, cell migration, and wound repair process by promoting fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis. Preliminary findings have shown that asiatic acid is one of the main active constituents of C. asiatica, directly associated with its healing activity.
In a double-blind clinical trial on 30 mentally retarded children, a significant improvement in both general ability and behavioral pattern when the drug was administered for a short period of 12 weeks (Appa Rao et al., 1973).
The titrated extract of C. asiatica (TECA) revealed good therapeutic effects on peptic ulcers and combination therapy (with antacid and cimetidine) showed better than TECA alone therapy in the treatment of peptic ulcers (Cho. et al., 1981 & Rhee, 1981).
Asiaticoside (2-tab tid) was given to 9 gastric, 15 duodenal, 4 gastro-duodenal and 2 gastritis patients. The healing rate in peptic ulcer was 25.0 %, 62.5 %, 81.2 %, 81.2 %, and 90.6 % after 4, 6, 8, and 12 weeks respectively, while improvement in varioloid gastritis was obtained in 6 weeks. The healing rate was better in females than males and no side effects were noted by oral administration (Chung & Chung, 1981; Shin et al., 1982).
12 educable mentally retarded children (8- 12 yrs) were provided crude powder of C. asiatica (Brahmi) for 6 months and followed up to one year. Post-treatment values of MISIC, Bender Gestalt’s test, and Reven matrices exhibit modification at various mental levels. Eight children improved very significantly along with appreciable improvement in academic performance at the school level (Sharma et al., 1985).
It is found to possess potent CNS depressant properties. In addition, it was found to possess an antidepressant action which appeared to be mediated through the D, receptor and cholinomimetic action which is blocked by atropine and chlorpromazine (Sakina, 1990).
It showed promising non-narcotic analgesic effects. along with other drugs (Vohora & Dandiya, 1992).
Omar dev, Roxana & Mohamed, Suhaila & Hambali, Zarida & Abu Samah, Bahaman. (2008). Comparison of Cognitive Effects of Centella Asiatica in Healthy Middle Age Female and Male Volunteers. 31. Aims of this study: Centella asiatica has a reputation to restore declining cognitive function in traditional medicine and animal models. However, little evidence regarding the efficacy of Centella asiatica from clinical trials is available. Therefore, the present study investigated the effect of Centella asiatica on the cognitive function of healthy middle-aged volunteers. Materials and methods: Forty-one (22 females and 19 males) healthy middle age participants received the Centella asiatica capsules at various doses ranging from 3 g to 4 g (according to body weight) once daily for 2 months. Cognitive performance was assessed using the Woodcock-Johnson Cognitive Abilities Test III (WJ CAT III) before the trial (baseline), 40 days, 60 days, and 90 days (after treatment). Results: The results showed that Centella asiatica enhanced many of the cognitive tests measured at different times between males and females. Conclusion: Therefore, the present findings suggest the potential Centella asiatica to attenuate the age-related decline in cognitive function in healthy middle age and elderly adults.
The partially purified active fraction of methanolic extract showed 50% cytotoxicity at a concentration of 17 micrograms and 22 micrograms to LAC and DLA respectively with no toxic effect against normal human lymphocytes. The growth of L92g cells was inhibited in long-term culture experiments and its efficacy was also seen in the transplanted tumor-bearing mice (Babu & Padikkala, 1993)
Type I & II collagens are the major components of the skin dermis. Skin aging is related to a decrease in type I collagen levels. It also plays an important role in wound healing. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to determine the levels of secretion of type I & III collagen in human fibroblast cultures with or without asiaticoside and madecassoiside.
Asiaticoside and madecasso cide were shown to stimulate collagen secretion. Type I selected collagen was increased by 25- 30% with asiaticoside and madecassoide. However, only madecassoside was able to significantly increase collagen III secretions (Bonte et al., 1995).
The immunomodulatory property of C. asiatica is also reported (Plohmann et al., 1994).
The anti-hypertensive effect was found to be due to the inhibition of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)-Hansen et al., 196).
Puttarak, Panupong & Dilokthornsakul, Piyameth & Saokaew, Surasak & Dhippayom, Teerapon & Kongkaew, Chuenjid & Sruamsiri, Rosarin & Chuthaputti, Anchalee & Chaiyakunapruk, Nathorn. (2017). Effects of Centella asiatica (L.) Urb. on cognitive function and mood-related outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Scientific Reports. 7. 10. 1038/ s41598- 017- 09823- 9. Centella asiatica (L.) Urb. has been used as an herbal brain tonic for mental disorders and enhancing memory, but no review of the overall evidence of C. asiatica and cognitive function has been conducted. This study aims to determine the effects of C. asiatica on cognitive function and its related properties. The current systematic review includes five randomized controlled trials (RCTs) conducted to determine the effect of C. asiatica alone and six RCTs conducted to determine the effect of C. asiatica-containing products. Meta-analysis indicated that there are no significant differences in all cognitive function domains of C. asiatica when compared to placebo. However, it could improve mood by increasing alert scores [SMD: 0.71 (95% CI; 0.01 to 1.41); I² = 30.5%] and decreasing anger scores at 1 hour after treatment [SMD: −0.81 (95% CI; −1.51 to −0.09); I² = 36.6%]. None of the studies reported adverse effects of C. asiatica. In conclusion, there is no strong evidence to support the use of C. asiatica for cognitive function improvement in each cognitive domain. C. asiatica could improve alertness and relieve anger. However, some limitations should be aware including dose regimen, plant preparation, standardization, and product variation. Future well-designed clinical trials using suitable doses of standardized C. asiatica are still needed.
Harwoko, Harwoko & Pramono, Suwijiyo & Nugroho, Agung. (2014). Triterpenoid-rich fraction of Centella asiatica leaves and in vivo antihypertensive activity. International Food Research Journal. 21. 149-154. asiatica (L.) Urban. The leaf contains several compounds such as triterpenoids, flavonoids, phenolics, tannins, and resins. The total triterpenic fraction of C. asiatica could treat venous hypertensive microangiopathy, while the ethyl acetate fraction of C. asiatica leaf has a hypotensive effect in cats. This study aimed to provide a triterpenoid-rich fraction of C. asiatica leaf, analyze asiaticoside contents, and examine the in vivo antihypertensive effect on phenylephrine-induced hypertensive rats by non-invasive tail-cuff method. The results showed that triterpenoid contents in the chloroform fraction of C. asiatica (CFCA) were more dominant than the flavonoid/phenolic contents. TLC-densitometric data showed that asiaticoside contents of CFCA were 0.402 ± 0.02%. The CFCA showed an anti-hypertensive effect on phenylephrine-induced hypertensive rats. The ED50 values, a parameter of drug potency, of these effects on systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and mean arterial pressure were 10.40 ± 0.98, 9.05 ± 1.95, and 9.37 ± 1.69 mg/kg, respectively.

Rasa Panchaka of Mandukaparni

Rasa (Taste)	Kashaya (Astringent), Madhura (Sweet), Tikta (Bitter) Anurasa
Guna (Virtue)	Laghu (Light), Sara
Virya (Potency)	Sheeta (Cold Potency)
Vipaka (Post-Digestion)	Madhura (Sweet)
Prabhava	Medhya

Dosha Karma of Mandukaparni

Tridosha Shamaka

Vatahara due to Madhura Vipaka, Pitta Hara because of Sheeta Virya, Madhura Vipaka and Tikta, Kashaya, Madhura Rasa. Kapha Hara because of Tikta, Kashaya Rasa.

Karma (Actions) of Mandukaparni

Medhya Rasayana, Mastishka Balya, Shamaka, Rasayana, Vaya Sthapana, Balya, Hridya, Sothahara, Agni Deepana, Kapha Nisaraka, Prameha Ghana, Stanya Janana, Satanya Shodhaka, Ama Pachana, Jwara Hara.

Prayogarha Vyadhi (Therapeutic Indication) of Mandukaparni

Buddhi Mandatva, Samriti Hrasa, Mashtishka Dourbalya, Unmada, Apsmara, Agnimandya, Grahani, Hrid Vikara, Hridd Dourbalya, Hrcchotha, Kasa, Swasa, Swara Bheda, Prasavottara Vyapat, Satnya Kshaya, Kustha, Granthika, Kustha Jirna, Vrana Kshayaja, Phiranga, Updanha, Gandmala, Shleepada, Amadosha, Amajanita Vikara, Shosha, Vayu Vikara, Kamala Pandu, Pitika.

Aamyik Paryog (Therapeutic Uses) of Mandukaparni

Kasa and Kshaya (Cough and consumption): Mandukaparni, madhuka, and sunthi are also used according to the method as described for nagabala (initial dose 5 gm. gradually increasing in a month upto 40 gm. with milk keeping also on milk-diet without cereals). (Ashtanga Hridya Chikitsa Sthana. 3/ 119, Kashyapa Samhita. P. 109- here brahmi is also mentioned.

Swara Bheda (Disorder of voice): Mandukapari combined with bilva root, kustha, and sankhapuspi and mixed with honey is used for clearing voice. (Bhavaprakasha Chikitsa Adhikara. 1/ 659)

Unmaada (Insanity): Juice of mandukaparni combined with an equal quantity of that of datura leaves and somavalli alleviates insanity. (Vanga Sena. 22)

Rasayana (As Intellect-Promoting):

Juice of mandukaparni, powder of madhuka, juice of the whole plant of Guduchi, and paste of sankhapuspi should be used with milk. They are life-giving, disease-destroyers, and promoters of strength, digestive power, complexion, and voice. These are intellect-promoting rasayanas among which Sankhapuspi is the outstanding one. (Charaka Samhita Chikitsa Sthana. 1. 3. 30- 31)
Mandukaparni-Rasayana. (Sushruta Samhita Chikitsa Sthana. 28/ 4)
Regular intake of mandukaparni fried in ghee for a month while keeping on a non-cereal diet acts as Rasayana. (Ashtanga Hridya Uttara tantra. 39. 165)

Vrana (Boils): Local application of the juice of mandükaparni destroys boils. Similarly acts as the paste of Dhattura root. (Gada Nigreha. 4. 1. 119)

Jeerna Pratishaya (Chronic Coryza): Decoction of mandukaparni, marica, and kulattha alleviates chronic coryza. The patient, during treatment, should drink warm water. (Vaidya Manorma. 16/ 69)

Udararoga (Gastrointestinal Disorder): One should take vegetables of trivrit and mandukaparni cooked in their juice and water without sours, salt, and fat, steamed or slightly steamed, for a month keeping on a non-cereal diet. When thirsty, he should take the fresh juice of the plant. (Charaka Samhita Chikitsa Sthana. 13. 181- 82)

Kamla (Jaundice): Juice of Mandukaparni mixed with honey, haridra, Amalaki, or milk and taken in the morning is wholesome for those suffering from jaundice. (Vaidya Manorma. 10. 2)

Benefits of Mandukaparni

Asiaticoside is active in the treatment of leprosy. It probably acts by dissolving the waxy covering of Bacillus leprae, the bacillus thus becomes fragile and may easily be destroyed by the tissues or by some other drug. The results of injections of the solution prepared by Boiteau are reported as being removable. Leprosy nodules are broken down, diffuse infiltrations disappear, perforating ulcers and lesions on the fingers heal and most remarkable of all, eye lesions are rapidly cured if treatment is given before the posterior chamber of the eyes is involved.
Asiaticoside and oxy-asiaticoside, which is prepared by permanganate oxidation of asiaticoside, have been employed in the treatment of certain types of tuberculosis.
The plant drug Mandukaparni enjoys a good reputation in Indian systems of medicine where it is credited for its effective medicinal potential. The drug is a diuretic, tonic, and anti-dermatosis. An infusion of the plant is used in the treatment of leprosy and is known to ameliorate the symptoms of the disease and improve the general health of the patient.
The leaves are commonly employed but the use of the whole plant is suggested. A usual dose for oral administration is 5- 10 grains of plant powder thrice daily. In larger doses, the drug is a stupefying narcotic, producing giddiness and sometimes coma.
The drug Mandukaparni or Manduki is chiefly Medhya (intellect-promoting) and kusthaghna (anti-leprotic) herbal agent, which is cardiotonic (hridya), stomachic (Deepana), tonic (Balya), restorative (rasayana), Jvaraghna (febrifuge), Stanyajanana (galactagogue), etc.

Benefits of Mandukaparni on Different Systems of the Body

External uses: Local application on the skin improves blood circulation. Leaves ground in a paste are used in dermatoses and many skin disorders. Powder or juice is applied over ulcers. Its paste is useful for acne.

Nervous system: It is beneficial to intellect (Medhya), that is, it enhances memory. Hence it is used in the weakness of the brain, hysteria, and epilepsy.

Digestive system: Its bitter taste improves appetite; hence it is used for loss of appetite. It acts as an astringent-by-astringent taste and cold property, hence useful in diarrhea and sprue.

Circulatory system: Cardiac tonic and reduces edema. It is used in edema caused due to cardiac debility, lymphadenopathy, and filariasis.

Respiratory system: It improves the voice by its expectorant action of bitterness. Also useful for cough and asthma.

Urinary system: Diuretic by Sheeta Veerya, hence it is used in dysuria. It should be given according to the stage of urinary disorders which are induced by pitta.

Skin: It improves blood circulation by vasodilating action. Therefore, it is useful in many skin disorders. It has wound-cleaning and healing properties. Useful in dermatoses- especially Granthik Kushtha, chronic ulcers, and tuberculous ulcers. It can be used in the secondary stage of syphilis when symptoms are present on the skin along with intradermal changes.

Temperature: Bitter taste is the best for fever and as Mandookparni is bitter, it acts as an antipyretic. It digests ama (ama Aachana) and thus relieves fever.

Satmikaran: It is beneficial to physical strength and promotes longevity through its Madhur vipak and sheeta veerya; mandookparni is a rejuvenating drug. Hence it improves the activities of each organ, gives strength, and thus improves physical strength. Being Vayahsthapan and Balya, it is used in general debility.

Excretion: This drug is excreted through the skin and kidneys, hence it stimulates both these organs.

Matra (Therapeutic Administration and Dosage) of Mandukaparni

Churna (Whole plant powder): 3- 5 grams
Swarasa (juice): 10- 20 ml
Churna (Root powder): 0.5- 1.5 grams

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Classical Reference of Mandukaparni

Bhava Prakasha Nighantu Guduchyadi Varga- 279

Synonyms

ब्राह्मी कपोत वङ्का च सोम वल्ली सरस्वती |

मण्डूकपर्णी माण्डूकी त्वाष्ट्री दिव्या महौषधी ||

Bhava Prakasha Nighantu Guduchyadi Varga- 280- 281

Properties and action

ब्राह्मी हिमासरा तिक्ता लघु मेध्या च शीतला |

कषाया मधुरा स्वादुपाका आयुष्या रसायनी ||

स्वर्या स्मृततिप्रदा कुष्ठ पाण्डु मेहास्त्र कासजित्‌ |

विषशोथज्वरहरी त्वद मण्डूकपर्णिनी ||

Dhanwantri Nighantu Karveeradi Varga- 88

Properties and action

आदित्यभक्ता कटुका तथोष्णा स्फोटकापहा |

सरस्वती सरा स्वर्या रसायनविधौ हिता||

Kaiydeva Nighantu Aushadhi Varga- 722- 723

ब्राह्मी शीता सरा तिक्ता कषाया मधुरा लघु: |

स्वर्या समृति प्रदा हद्यायुष्या रसायनी ||

मातस्मृतिप्रदा हन्ति कुष्ठ कण्डू ज्वरं मलान्‌ |

शोफारूचि विष श्वास कासमोहास्र पाण्डुता: ||

Priya Nighantu Satpuspa Varga, 118

ब्राह्मी मण्डूकपर्णी प्रसरति सलिले भेकवत्‌ सुप्ररोहा ।

पत्र कोषात्कवृन्त॑ सुललितहरितं छत्रवत्‌ पुष्पमाला ।

ब्रह्मण्यैषा ददाति प्रमुदितिमनसा धीध्रति स्मृत्युदारां |

प्रज्ञां मेधाञ्च लोके परिहरति समं मानसं व्याधिजातम्‌ ||

Raja Nighantu, Parpatadi varga, 66

ब्राह्मी हिमा कषाया च तिक्ता वातास्रपित्तजित |

बुद्धिं प्रज्ञां च मेधां च कुर्य्यदायुष्यवर्द्धनी ||

Sushruta Samhita Chikitsa Sthana, 28- 4

हृतदोष एव प्रतिसंसृष्टभक्तो यथाक्रममागारं प्रविश्य मण्डूकपर्णीस्वरसमादाय सहस्रसम्पाताभिहुतं कृत्वा यथाबलं पयसाऽऽलोड्य पिबेत् पयोऽनुपानं वा, तस्यां जीर्णायां यवान्नं पयसोपयुञ्जीत; तिलैर्वा सह भक्षयेत्त्रीन् मासान् पयोऽनुपानं, जीर्णे पयः सर्पिरोदन इत्याहारः; एवमुपयुञ्जानो ब्रह्मवर्चसी श्रुतनिगादी भवति वर्षशतमायुरवाप्नोति | त्रिरात्रोपोषितश्च त्रिरात्रमेनां भक्षयेत्, त्रिरात्रादूर्ध्वं पयः सर्पिरिति चोपयुञ्जीत | बिल्वमात्रं पिण्डं वा पयसाऽऽलोड्य पिबेत्, एवं द्वादशरात्रमुपयुज्य मेधावी वर्षशतायुर्भवति ||

Bhavaprakasha Chikitsa Sthana 1- 659

वायु विकार

शालुर पर्णी मालूर मूलाम यमधूपलुता |

शंखपुष्पी सहित सेवया वाचां विशुद्धया ||

Ashtanga Hridya Chikitsa Sthana, 3- 119

कासे शोषे च

मण्डूकपर्णी: कल्पो अयं यष्टया: विश्व औषधस्य च |

Kashyapa Samhita Page, 109

मण्डूकपर्णी: शुण्ठ्याश्च ब्राहमियाश्च मधूकस्य च |

तद गुण: सर्व रोगघ्ने विधि नाग बला: सम: ||

Sushruta Samhita Chikitsa Sthana, 28- 4

रसायन

मण्डूकपर्णी रसायनं |

Ashtanga Hridya Uttara Tantra, 39- 165

मण्डूकपर्णीमपि भक्षयन्ते भ्रिष्टाम धृते मासम अन्न भक्ष्या |

जीवन्ति कालम विपुलं प्रगल्भ स तारुण्य लावण्य गुणोदयस्त्था ||

Vaidya Manorma, 16/ 69

पीनस

मण्डूकपर्णी मारीच कुलथे: साधू साधित: |

कषाय: पीनस अतिघ्न: कोषणाम्बु पीबतो नृणाम ||

Vaidya Manorma. 10/ 2

कामला

मधुना निश्या धात्र्या क्षीरेण वा मिश्रित: प्रगे पित: |

स्यान माण्डुकी स्वरस: कामलीनाम हितकारो नृणाम ||

Sushruta Samhita Sutra Sthana. 20/ 4

अत: सर्वप्राणिनामयमाहारार्थं वर्ग उपदिश्यते; तद्यथा- रक्तशालि षष्टिक कङ्गु क्रमुकुन्दक पाण्डुक पीतक प्रमोदक कालकासनक पुष्पक कर्दमक शकुनाहृत सुगन्धककलम नीवार कोद्रवोद्दालक श्यामाक गोधूम यववैणवैण हरिणकुरङ्गमृगमातृकाश्वदंष्ट्राकरालक्रकरकपोतलावतित्तिरिकपिञ्जलवर्तीरवर्तिका मुद्गवनमुद्गमकुष्ठकलायमसूरमङ्गल्यचणकहरेण्वाढकीसतीनाश्चिल्लिवास्तुकसुनिषण्णकजीवन्तीतण्डुलीयकमण्डूकपर्ण्यः, गव्यं घृतं, सैन्धवं, दाडिमामलकमित्येष वर्गः सर्वप्राणिनां सामान्यतः पथ्यतमः ||

Sushruta Samhita Sutra Sthana. 46/ 262

मण्डूकपर्णी सप्तला सुनिषण्णक सुवर्चला पिप्पली गुडूची गोजिह्वा- काकमाचीप्र पुन्नाडावल्गुज सतीन बृहती कण्टकारिकाफल- पटोल वार्ताक कारवेल्लक कटुकिकाकेबु कोरुबूक पर्पटक किराततिक्त- कर्कोटकारिष्ट कोशातकी वेत्र करीराटरूषकार्क पुष्पी प्रभृतीनि ||

Sushruta Samhita Sutra Sthana. 46/ 264

कषाया तु हिता पित्ते स्वादुपाकरसा हिमा |

लघ्वी मण्डूकपर्णी तु तद्वद्गोजिह्विका मता ||

सतीनो वास्तुकश्चुच्चूचिल्लीमूलकपोतिकाः |

मण्डूकपर्णी जीवन्ती शाकवर्गे प्रशस्यते ||

Sushruta Samhita Chikitsa Sthana. 9/ 5- Kustha Chikitsa

ततः शालि षष्टिक यवगोधूम कोरदूष श्यामाकोद्दालकादीननवान् भुञ्जीत मुद्गाढक्योरन्यतरस्य यूषेण सूपेन वा निम्ब पत्रारुष्कर व्यामिश्रेण, मण्डूक पर्ण्यवल्गुजाटरूषकरूपिकापुष्पैः सर्पिः सिद्धैः सर्षप तैल सिद्धैर्वा, तिक्तवर्गेण वाऽभिहितेन; मांससात्म्याय वा जाङ्गल मांसम मेदस्कं वितरेत्; तैलं वज्रकमभ्यङ्गार्थे; आरग्वधादि कषायमुत्सादनार्थे; पान परिषेकावगाहादिषु च खदिरकषायम्; इत्येष आहाराचारविभागः ||

Charaka Samhita Sutra Sthana. 4/ 50

अमृताऽभया धात्री मुक्ता श्वेता जीवन्त्यतिरसा मण्डूकपर्णी स्थिरापुनर्नवा इति दशेमानि वयःस्थापनानि भवन्ति |

Charaka Samhita Sutra Sthana. 27/ 93

मण्डूकपर्णी वेत्राग्रं कुचेला वनतिक्तकम्||

कर्कोटकावल्गुजकौ पटोलं शकुलादनी|

वृषपुष्पाणि शार्ङ्गेष्टा केम्बूकं सकठिल्लकम्||

नाडी कलायं गोजिह्वा वार्ताकं तिलपर्णिका|

कौलकं कार्कशं नैम्बं शाकं पार्पटकं च यत्||

कफपित्तहरं तिक्तं शीतं कटु विपच्यते|

Charaka Samhita Chikitsa Sthana. 1. 1. 58

यथोक्त गुणानामामलकानां सहस्रं पिष्ट स्वेदन विधिना पयस ऊष्मणा सुस्विन्नमनातप शुष्कमनस्थि चूर्णयेत्| तदामलक सहस्र स्वरस परिपीतं स्थिरा पुनर्नवा जीवन्ती नागबला ब्रह्मसुवर्चला मण्डूकपर्णी शतावरी शङ्खपुष्पी पिप्पली वचाविडङ्गस्वयङ्गुप्तामृता- चन्दनागुरु मधुक मधूक पुष्पोत्पल पद्म मालती युवती यूथिकाचूर्णाष्टभाग संयुक्तं पुनर्नागबला सहस्रपल स्वरस परिपीतमनातप शुष्कं द्विगुणित सर्पिषा क्षौद्र सर्पिषा वा क्षुद्र गुडाकृतिं कृत्वा शुचौ दृढे घृतभाविते कुम्भे भस्मराशेरधः स्थापयेदन्तर्भूमेः पक्षं कृत रक्षाविधानमथर्व वेदविदा, पक्षात्यये चोद्धृत्य कनक रजत ताम्र प्रवाल कालाय सचूर्णाष्टभाग संयुक्तमर्धकर्षवृद्ध्या यथोक्तेन विधिना प्रातः प्रातः प्रयुञ्जानोऽग्निबलमभिसमीक्ष्य, जीर्णे च षष्टिकं पयसा ससर्पिष्कमुपसेवमानो यथोक्तान् गुणान् समश्नुत इति||

Charaka Samhita Sutra Sthana. 1. 1. 47

Brahma Rasayanam

पञ्चानां पञ्चमूलानां भागान् दशपलोन्मितान्| हरीतकीसहस्रं च त्रिगुणामलकं नवम्|| विदारिगन्धां बृहतीं पृश्निपर्णीं निदिग्धिकाम्| विद्याद्विदारिगन्धाद्यं श्वदंष्ट्रापञ्चमं गणम्|| बिल्वाग्निमन्थश्योनाकं काश्मर्यमथ पाटलाम्| पुनर्नवां शूर्पपर्ण्यौ बलामेरण्डमेव च|| जीवकर्षभकौ मेदां जीवन्तीं सशतावरीम्| शरेक्षुदर्भकाशानां शालीनां मूलमेव च|| इत्येषां पञ्चमूलानां पञ्चानामुपकल्पयेत्| भागान् यथोक्तांस्तत्सर्वं साध्यं दशगुणेऽम्भसि|| दशभागावशेषं तु पूतं तं ग्राहयेद्रसम्| हरीतकीश्च ताः सर्वाः सर्वाण्यामलकानि च|| तानि सर्वाण्यनस्थीनि फलान्यापोथ्य कूर्चनैः| विनीय तस्मिन्निर्यूहे चूर्णानीमानि दापयेत्|| मण्डूकपर्ण्याः पिप्पल्याः शङ्खपुष्प्याः प्लवस्य च| मुस्तानां सविडङ्गानां चन्दनागुरुणोस्तथा|| मधुकस्य हरिद्राया वचायाः कनकस्य च| भागांश्चतुष्पलान् कृत्वा सूक्ष्मैलायास्त्वचस्तथा|| सितोपलासहस्रं च चूर्णितं तुलयाऽधिकम्| तैलस्य द्व्याढकं तत्र दद्यात्त्रीणि च सर्पिषः|| साध्यमौदुम्बरे पात्रे तत् सर्वं मृदुनाऽग्निना| ज्ञात्वा लेह्यमदग्धं च शीतं क्षौद्रेण संसृजेत्|| क्षौद्रप्रमाणं स्नेहार्धं तत् सर्वं घृतभाजने | तिष्ठेत्सम्मूर्च्छितं तस्य मात्रां काले प्रयोजयेत्|| या नोपरुन्ध्यादाहारमेकं मात्रा जरां प्रति| षष्टिकः पयसा चात्र जीर्णे भोजनमिष्यते|| वैखानसा वालखिल्यास्तथा चान्ये तपोधनाः| रसायनमिदं प्राश्य बभूवुरमितायुषः|| मुक्त्वा जीर्णं वपुश्चाग्र्यमवापुस्तरुणं वयः| वीततन्द्राक्लमश्वासा निरातङ्काः समाहिताः|| मेधास्मृतिबलोपेताश्चिररात्रं तपोधनाः| ब्राह्मं तपो ब्रह्मचर्यं चेरुश्चात्यन्तनिष्ठया|| रसायनमिदं ब्राह्ममायुष्कामः प्रयोजयेत्| दीर्घमायुर्वयश्चाग्र्यं कामांश्चेष्टान् समश्नुते||

Charaka Samhita Chikitsa Sthana. 1. 3/ 30

मण्डूकपर्ण्याः स्वरसः प्रयोज्यः क्षीरेण यष्टीमधुकस्य चूर्णम्|

रसो गुडूच्यास्तु समूलपुष्प्याः कल्कः प्रयोज्यः खलु शङ्खपुष्प्याः||

आयुःप्रदान्यामयनाशनानि बलाग्निवर्णस्वरवर्धनानि|

मेध्यानि चैतानि रसायनानि मेध्या विशेषेण च शङ्खपुष्पी||

Charaka Samhita Chikitsa Sthana. 11/ 92- Kshat Ksheen

पिबेन्नागबलामूलमर्धकर्षविवर्धितम् |

पलं क्षीरयुतं मासं क्षीरवृत्तिरनन्नभुक्||

एष प्रयोगः पुष्ट्यायुर्बलारोग्यकरः परः|

मण्डूकपर्ण्याः कल्पोऽयं शुण्ठीमधुकयोस्तथा||

Charaka Samhita Chikitsa Sthana. 13/ 179, Udara Roga Chikitsa

पाययेत भिषग्दुग्धं यवागूं वा यथाबलम्|

त्रिवृन्मण्डूकपर्ण्योश्च शाकं सयववास्तुकम्||

भक्षयेत् कालशाकं वा स्वरसोदकसाधितम् |

निरम्ललवणस्नेहं स्विन्नास्विन्नमनन्नभुक्||

मासमेकं ततश्चैव तृषितः स्वरसं पिबेत्|

एवं विनिर्हृते दोषे शाकैर्मासात् परं ततः||

दुर्बलाय प्रयुञ्जीत प्राणभृत् कारभं पयः|

Charaka Samhita Chikitsa Sthana. 23/ 224

शालयः षष्टिकाश्चैव कोरदूषाः प्रियङ्गवः| भोजनार्थे प्रशस्यन्ते लवणार्थे च सैन्धवम्|| तण्डुलीयकजीवन्तीवार्ताकसुनिषण्णकाः| चुच्चूर्मण्डूकपर्णी च शाकं च कुलकं हितम्|| धात्री दाडिममम्लार्थे यूषा मुद्गहरेणुभिः| रसाश्चैणशिखिश्वाविल्लावतैत्तिरपार्षताः|| विषघ्नौषधसंयुक्ता रसा यूषाश्च संस्कृताः| अविदाहीनि चान्नानि विषार्तानां भिषग्जितम्|| विरुद्धाध्यशनक्रोधक्षुद्भयायासमैथुनम्| वर्जयेद्विषमुक्तोऽपि दिवास्वप्नं विशेषतः||

Sushruta Samhita Uttara tantra. 55/ 11

द्राक्षापटोलविडवेत्रकरीरनिम्बमूर्वाभयाक्षबदरामलकेन्द्रवृक्षैः |

बीजैः करञ्जनृपवृक्षभवैश्च पिष्टैर्लेहं पचेत् सुरभिमूत्रयुतं यथावत् ||

मुस्तां वचां त्रिकटुकं रजनीद्वयं च भार्गीं च कुष्ठमथ निर्दहनीं च पिष्ट्वा |

मूत्रेऽविजे द्विरदमूत्रयुते पचेद्वा पाठां तुगामतिविषां रजनीं च मुख्याम् ||

मण्डूकिमर्कममृतां च सलाङ्गलाख्यां मूत्रे पचेत्तु महिषस्य विधानविद्वा |

एतान्न सन्ति चतुरो लिहतस्तु लेहान् गुल्मारुचिश्वसनकण्ठहृदामयाश्च ||

Ashtanga Hridya Chikitsa Sthana. 15/ 82, Udar Chikitsa

हृतदोषं तु शीताम्बुस्नातं तं पाययेत्पयः||

पेयां वा त्रिवृतः शाकं मण्डूक्या वास्तुकस्य वा|

कालशाकं यवाख़्यं वा ख़ादेत्स्वरससाधितम्||

निरम्ललवणस्नेहं स्विन्नास्विन्नमनन्नभुक्|

मासमेकं ततश्चैव तृषितः स्वरसं पिबेत्||

Ashtanga Hridya Uttara tantra. 1/ 43 Bala Upchaaran

वचेन्दु लेखा मण्डूकी शङ्खपुष्पी शतावरीः||

ब्रह्मसोमामृताब्राह्मीः कल्कीकृत्य पलांशिकाः|

अष्टाङ्गं विपचेत्सर्पिः प्रस्थं क्षीरचतुर्गुणम्||

तत्पीतं धन्यमायुष्यं वाङ्मेधास्मृतिबुद्धिकृत्|

Ashtanga Hridya Uttara Tantra. 39/ 61

तद्वद्विदार्यतिबला बला मधुक वायसीः| श्रेयसी श्रेयसी युक्ता पथ्या धात्री स्थिरामृताः|| मण्डूकी शङ्ख कुसुमा वाजिगन्धा शतावरीः| उपयुञ्जीत मेधाधीवयः स्थैर्य बलप्रदाः||

Ashtanga Hridya Chikitsa Sthana. 3/ 120, Kasa Chikitsa

पिबेन्नागबला मूलस्यार्धकर्षाभिवर्धितम्|| पलं क्षीरयुतं मासं क्षीर वृत्तिरनन्नभुक्| एष प्रयोगः पुष्ट्यायुर्बल वर्णकरः परम्|| मण्डूकपर्ण्याः कल्पोऽयं यष्ट्या विश्वौषधस्य च |

Ashtanga Hridya Uttara Tantra. 39/ 18, Brahma Rasayana

पथ्यासहस्रं त्रिगुण धात्रीफल समन्वितम्| पञ्चानां पञ्चमूलानां सार्धं पलशतद्वयम्|| जले दशगुणे पक्त्वा दशभागस्थिते रसे| आपोथ्य कृत्वा व्यस्थीनि विजयामलकान्यथा|| विनीय तस्मिन्निर्यूहे योजयेत्कुडवांशकम्| त्वगेला मुस्त रजनी पिप्पल्यगुरु चन्दनम्|| मण्डूकपर्णी कनक शङ्खपुष्पी वचाप्लवम्| यष्ट्याह्वयं विडङ्गं च चूर्णितं तुलयाऽधिकम्|| सितोपलार्धभारं च पात्राणि त्रीणि सर्पिषः| द्वे च तैलात् पचेत्सर्वं तदग्नौ लेहतां गतम्|| अवतीर्णं हिमं युञ्ज्याद्विंशैः क्षौद्र शतैस्त्रिभिः| ततः खजेन मथितं निदध्याद् घृतभाजने|| या नोपरुन्ध्यादाहारमेकं मात्राऽस्य सा स्मृता| षष्टिकः पयस चात्र जीर्णे भोजनमिष्यते|| वैखानसा वालखिल्यास्तथा चान्ये तपोधनाः ब्रह्मणा विहितं धन्यमिदं प्रश्य रसायनम्|| तन्द्रा श्रमा क्लम वली पलितामय वर्जिताः| मेघा स्मृति बलोपेता बभूवुरमितायुषः||

Ashtanga Hridya Uttara tantra. 39/ 44

मण्डूकपर्ण्याः स्वरसं यथाग्नि क्षीरेण यष्टीमधुकस्य चूर्णम्| रसं गुडूच्याः सहमूलपुष्प्याः कल्कं प्रयुञ्जीत च शङ्खपुष्प्याः|| अयुष्प्रदान्यामय नाशनानि बलाग्नि वर्ण स्वर वर्धनानि| मेध्यानि चैतानि रसायनानि मेध्या विशेषेण तु शङ्खपुष्पी|| मण्डूकपर्णीमपि भक्षयन्तो भष्टां घृते मासमनन्नभक्षाः| जीवन्ति कालं विपुलं प्रगल्भा- स्तारुण्यलावण्यगुणोदयस्थाः||

Specific Formulation of Mandukaparni

Sarswata Churna for Medha Vardhana
Sarswat Ghrita for Kustha, Arsha
Sarswataarishta for Mansika Vikara
Brahmi Panaka
Brahmi Taila
Mandukparni Swarasa
Brihat Guduchi Taila
Karimbirumadi Churna

Contraindication and Side Effects of Mandukaparni

Mandukaparni should not be used for more than 6 weeks in continuation as prolonged use slows down the metabolic effect of the active ingredient. So, a break of approximately 2 weeks after 1 and half months of use. Mandukaparni may result in drowsiness and sleepiness if taken during and after surgery with other medications. Mandukaparni may result in hyperglycemic effects if taken with other medications.
A high dosage of Mandukaparni may result in stomach upset, nausea, hallucination, intoxication, dizziness, headache, skin allergies, etc.
Avoid the use of Mandukaparni during pregnancy and lactation.
Mandukaparni is an emmenagogue, so it also affects the menstrual cycle.

Suggestive Reading Regarding Centella asiatica

Rahman, Mashiur & Hossain, Shahadat & A, Rahman & Fatima, Nusrat & Nahar, Taslima & Uddin, Borhan & M., Ahamed. (2013). Antioxidant activity of Centella asiatica: Effect of extraction solvent Polarity. Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry. 1. 27- 32.
Nansy, E. & Harwoko, Harwoko & Pramono, Suwijiyo & Nugroho, Agung. (2015). Total flavonoid content and in vivo hypotensive effect of chloroform insoluble fraction of Centella asiatica leaf extract. International Food Research Journal. 22. 2119- 2125.
Zhao, Yun & Shu, Ping & Zhang, Youzhi & Lin, Limin & Zhou, Haihong & Xu, Zhentian & Daqin, Suo & Xie, Anzhi & Jin, Xin. (2014). Effect of Centella asiatica on Oxidative Stress and Lipid Metabolism in Hyperlipidemic Animal Models. Oxidative medicine and cellular longevity. 2014. 154295. 10. 1155/ 2014/ 154295.
Puttarak, Panupong & Dilokthornsakul, Piyameth & Saokaew, Surasak & Dhippayom, Teerapon & Kongkaew, Chuenjid & Sruamsiri, Rosarin & Chuthaputti, Anchalee & Chaiyakunapruk, Nathorn. (2017). Effects of Centella asiatica (L.) Urb. on cognitive function and mood-related outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Scientific Reports. 7. 10. 1038/ s41598- 017- 09823- 9.
Soumyanath, Amala & Zhong, Yong-Ping & Henson, Edward & Wadsworth, Teri & Bishop, James & Gold, Bruce & Quinn, Joseph. (2012). Centella asiatica Extract Improves Behavioral Deficits in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease: Investigation of a Possible Mechanism of Action. International Journal of Alzheimer’s disease. 2012. 381974. 10. 1155/ 2012/ 381974.
Harwoko, Harwoko & Pramono, Suwijiyo & Nugroho, Agung. (2014). Triterpenoid-rich fraction of Centella asiatica leaves and in vivo antihypertensive activity. International Food Research Journal. 21. 149-154.
Soumyanath, Amala & Zhong, Yong-Ping & Henson, Edward & Wadsworth, Teri & Bishop, James & Gold, Bruce & Quinn, Joseph. (2012). Centella asiatica Extract Improves Behavioral Deficits in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease: Investigation of a Possible Mechanism of Action. International Journal of Alzheimer’s disease. 2012. 381974. 10. 1155/ 2012/ 381974.
Diniz, Lucio & Calado, Leonardo & Sucupira Duarte, Allana & Sousa, Damiao. (2023). Centella asiatica and Its Metabolite Asiatic Acid: Wound Healing Effects and Therapeutic Potential. Metabolites. 13. 276. 10. 3390/ metabolic 13020276.
Omar dev, Roxana & Mohamed, Suhaila & Hambali, Zarida & Abu Samah, Bahaman. (2008). Comparison of Cognitive Effects of Centella Asiatica in Healthy Middle-Aged Female and Male Volunteers.
Soumyanath, Amala & Zhong, Yong-Ping & Henson, Edward & Wadsworth, Teri & Bishop, James & Gold, Bruce & Quinn, Joseph. (2012). Centella asiatica Extract Improves Behavioral Deficits in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease: Investigation of a Possible Mechanism of Action.
International Journal of Alzheimer’s disease. 2012. 381974. 10. 1155/ 2012/ 381974.
Gohil KJ, Patel JA, Gajjar AK. Pharmacological Review on Centella asiatica: A Potential Herbal Cure-all. Indian J Pharm Sci. 2010 Sep; 72 (5): 546- 56. doi 10. 4103/ 0250- 474X. 78519. PMID: 21694984; PMCID: PMC 3116297.
Bylka W, Znajdek-Awiżeń P, Studzińska-Sroka E, Brzezińska M. Centella asiatica in cosmetology. Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2013 Feb; 30 (1): 46-9. doi 10. 5114/India. 2013. 33378. Epub 2013 Feb 20. PMID: 24278045; PMCID: PMC 3834700.
Orhan IE. Centella asiatica (L.) Urban: From Traditional Medicine to Modern Medicine with Neuroprotective Potential. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2012; 2012: 946259. doi 10. 1155/ 2012/ 946259. Epub 2012 May 14. PMID: 22666298; PMCID: PMC 3359802.
Gray NE, Alcazar Magana A, Lak P, Wright KM, Quinn J, Stevens JF, Maier CS, Soumyanath A. Centella asiatica – Phytochemistry and mechanisms of neuroprotection and cognitive enhancement. Phytochem Rev. 2018 Feb; 17 (1): 161- 194. doi 10. 1007/ s11101- 017- 9528- y. Epub 2017 Sep 20. PMID: 31736679; PMCID: PMC 6857646.
Arribas-Lopez E, Zand N, Ojo O, Snowden MJ, Kochhar T. A Systematic Review of the Effect of Centella asiatica on Wound Healing. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 Mar 10; 19 (6): 3266. doi 10. 3390/ ijerph 19063266. PMID: 35328954; PMCID: PMC 8956065.
Ratz- Lyko A, Arct J, Pytkowska K. Moisturizing and Anti-inflammatory Properties of Cosmetic Formulations Containing Centella asiatica Extract. Indian J Pharm Sci. 2016 Jan- Feb; 78 (1): 27- 33. doi 10. 4103/ 0250-474x. 180247. PMID: 27168678; PMCID: PMC 4852572.
Prajapati SK, Malaiya A, Mishra G, Jain D, Kesharwani P, Mody N, Ahmadi A, Paliwal R, Jain A. An exhaustive comprehension of the role of herbal medicines in Pre- and Post-COVID manifestations. J Ethnopharmacol. 2022 Oct 5; 296: 115420. doi 10. 1016/ j. jep. 2022. 115420. Epub 2022 May 30. PMID: 35654349; PMCID: PMC 9150915.
Sharma R, Martins N. Telomeres, DNA Damage, and Ageing: Potential Leads from Ayurvedic Rasayana (Anti-Ageing) Drugs. J Clin Med. 2020 Aug 6; 9 (8): 2544. doi 10. 3390/jam 9082544. PMID: 32781627; PMCID: PMC 7465058.
Lokanathan Y, Omar N, Ahmad Puzi NN, Saim A, Hj Idrus R. Recent Updates in Neuroprotective and neuroregenerative Potential of Centella asiatica. Malays J Med Sci. 2016 Jan; 23 (1): 4- 14. PMID: 27540320; PMCID: PMC 4975583.
Mallya, Suma & Vijayan, Aparna & KN, Sunil Kumar. (2015). Comparative pharmacognosy of two Medhya dravyas, Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri Linn.) and Mandukaparni (Centella asiatica Linn.). The Journal of Phytopharmacology 2320- 480X. 4. 1- 4. 10. 31254/ phyto. 2015. 4101.
Kant, Rajni & Srivastav, Prem & Datta, Ashis. (2019). The Medicinal Role of Centella asiatica and Its Applications in the Dahi: A Research Review. 28. 1- 9. 10. 9734/ jpri/ 2019/ v28i630220.
Narang, Priyanka & P Y, Ansary & Oommen, Sara & V V, Shincymol. (2023). Effect of bhavita churna of Mandukaparni (Centella asiatica Linn. Urban) in Hyperuricemia associated with Gouty arthritis of elbow joints- A case report. Kerala Journal of Ayurveda. 7. 10. 55718/ka. 131.
Rawat, Neha & Roushan, Rakesh. (2018). Medhya Rasayan A Potential Anxiolytic Drug in Ayurveda. 9. 263-271.
Ramana, GV & Gupta, Hemant & Sudhakar, D & Singh, Renu & Rana, Rakesh & Singhal, Richa. (2018). Clinical Evaluation of Ashwagandha and Mandookaparni in the Management of Manodwega (Generalized Anxiety Disorder). Journal of Research in Ayurvedic Sciences. 2. 70-79. 10.5005/jp-journals-10064-0042.
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Ayurveda is an Indian system of medicine that is popular since ancient times. Dr. Gupta’s IAFA® has been conducting research studies to find out different phytoconstituents of herbs and their action in the body. Such knowledge acquired by our experts is used in the preparation of medicines and providing the treatment facilities safely and effectively. IAFA® is the provider of safe and effective treatment for a wide range of diseases, mainly allergic diseases all based on Ayurveda.

Dr. Sahil Gupta (B.A.M.S., M.H.A.)

Dr. Sahil Gupta completed his Bachelor of Ayurveda in Medicine and Surgery (B.A.M.S.) and Master’s Degree in Health Administration (MHA) India. He is Registered Ayurvedic Doctor & Vaidya in India having Registration No. 23780. He is the CEO and founder of IAFA. After completing BAMS, Dr. Sahil Gupta started practicing Ayruveda by giving prime importance to allergic disorders management. He became the first Ayurvedic doctor to cure Food Allergies through Ayurveda. Read More About Dr. Sahil Gupta.