Mandukaparni
Mandukaparni
Mandukaparni is an ancient herb and the name has been derived from Sanskrit which means (the leaf resembles the feet of a frog). It is a controversial drug since ancient times and is often confused with Brahmi because Brahmi is one that promotes the intellect and that is why many herbs with similar effects get confused. In Ayurveda, this is an important ingredient of several compound formulations. Mandukaparni belongs to the group of drugs known as Medhya Rasayanas (psychotropic drugs). The presence of bioactive constituents makes the herb a potent memory enhancer, imparts anti-convulsant, anti-depressant, wound healing, anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial activity. Consumption of Mandukaparni also manages the risk of duodenal and gastric ulcers, central nervous system, skin and gastrointestinal disorders[2][3].
What are the synonyms of Mandukaparni?
Centella asiatica, Brahma Manduki, Kodangal, Karivana, Saraswati Aku, Vauari, Manduki, Darduracchada, Manimuni, Jholkhuri, Thalkuri, Thankuni, Indian Pennywort, Khodabrahmi, Khadbhrammi, Ondelaga, Brahmi soppu, Kodangal, Karivana, Vallarai, Gotu kola[1].
What is the source of Mandukaparni?
Plant Based
Benefits of Mandukaparni
Modern Science View
Mandukaparni helps reduce anxiety due to its anxiolytic activity. It reduces the effect of certain mediators that induce anxiety. It also manages the function of neurotransmitters by balancing the behavioral changes and release of hormones[6].
Ayurvedic View
Anxiety is classified as a neurological disorder where an individual gets certain symptoms like anger, stress or a feeling of depression. According to Ayurveda, any neurological disorder like anxiety is controlled by Vata dosha. Mandukaparni helps reduce the symptoms of anxiety and gives a calming effect on the nervous system due to its Medhya (brain tonic) property.
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available to support the role of Mandukparni in Mental alertness. However, taking Mandukaparni along with other herbs might (such as ashwagandha and vacha) help improve cognitive function[7].
Ayurvedic View
Mandukaparni helps to improve mental alertness when used on a regular basis. According to Ayurveda, the nervous system is controlled by Vata. An imbalance of Vata leads to poor mental alertness. Mandukaparni helps improve mental alertness as well as enhances memory due to its Medhya (brain tonic) property.
Modern Science View
Mandukaparni might help prevent the occurrence of Blood clots due to its antioxidant property. It lowers the level of cholesterol and produces nitric oxide synthase in the body. Nitric oxide synthase prevents the adhesion and aggregation of platelets, thereby preventing the formation of Blood clots[8].
Modern Science View
Mandukaparni might help manage Diabetes due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Mandukaparni reduces the breakdown of carbohydrates, inhibits the absorption of glucose and lowers blood sugar levels. It also prevents the damage of pancreatic cells and enhances insulin secretion, further managing blood sugar levels[9].
Modern Science View
Mandukaparni might help reduce the risk of Liver diseases due to its antioxidant activity. It fights against free radicals and prevents cell damage. Various studies suggest that it increases albumin and total protein levels in the serum which increases the synthesis of proteins leads to regeneration of liver cells. Together, this helps in reducing the risk of Liver diseases[10].
Ayurvedic View
Mandukaparni is a useful herb to get rid of Fatigue in day to day life. Fatigue refers to a feeling of tiredness, weakness or lack of energy. According to Ayurveda, Fatigue is referred to as Klama. Mandukaparni gives instant energy and reduces the symptoms of Fatigue because of its Balya (Strength provider) and Rasayana (rejuvenating) properties.
Ayurvedic View
Mandukaparni helps to manage indigestion. According to Ayurveda, indigestion means the state of an incomplete process of digestion. The primary reason for Indigestion is aggravated Kapha which lead to Agnimandya (weak digestive fire). Taking Mandukaparni helps to improve Agni (digestive fire) and digest the food easily due to its Deepan (appetizer) property, thereby preventing Indigestion.
Ayurvedic View
Mandukaparni helps manage Common cold and flu and its symptoms like cough. According to Ayurveda, cough is mainly due to an imbalance of the Kapha Dosha. Mandukaparni helps balance the aggravated Kapha in spite of its Sita (cold) potency. It boosts the immune system if taken regularly because of its Rasayana (rejuvenating) property which helps prevent the recurrence of Common cold.
Ayurvedic View
Urinary tract infection (UTI) is described under the broad term of Mutrakcchra in Ayurveda. Mutra means ooze, krichra means painful. Mandukaparni increases the urine flow and subsides the symptoms of UTI like burning sensation during urination due to its Sita (cold) and Mutral (diuretic) properties.
How effective is Mandukaparni?
Insufficient evidence
Anxiety, Blood clots, Common cold, Diabetes, Fatigue, Indigestion, Liver disease, Mental alertness, Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Precautions when using Mandukaparni
Advice from Experts
Important
Modern Science View
1. Mandukaparni is not recommended to be used for more than 6 weeks as prolonged use might slow down the metabolism of active constituents and can produce toxicity. So, it is advisable to take a break of 2 weeks after every 6-week cycle of Mandukparni[5].
2. Mandukaparni might cause drowsiness or sleepiness if taken along with medications used during and after surgery. So, it is advisable to stop using Mandukaparni at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery[4].
2. Mandukaparni might cause drowsiness or sleepiness if taken along with medications used during and after surgery. So, it is advisable to stop using Mandukaparni at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery[4].
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available for the use of Mandukparni during breastfeeding. So, it is advisable to avoid or consult a physician before using Mandukaparni during breastfeeding[4].
Patients with diabetes
Modern Science View
Mandukaparni may cause blood glucose levels to rise. So, it is advisable for diabetics to avoid or consult a physician before using Mandukaparni[14].
Patients with heart disease
Modern Science View
In some people, Mandukaparni may cause a rise in the lipid levels. So, it is advisable for patients with heart disease to avoid or consult a physician before using Mandukaparni[14].
Patients with liver disease
Modern Science View
Mandukaparni may cause damage to the liver. So, it is advisable for patients with liver disease to avoid or consult a physician before using Mandukaparni[4].
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available for the use of Mandukparni during pregnancy. So, it is advisable to avoid or consult a physician before using Mandukaparni during pregnancy[4].
Side Effects
Important
Modern Science View
1. Headache
2. Nausea
3. Dyspepsia
4. Dizziness
5. Drowsiness[5].
2. Nausea
3. Dyspepsia
4. Dizziness
5. Drowsiness[5].
severe medicine interaction
Modern Science View
Mandukaparni may increase the effects of sedatives. So, it is generally advised to consult a physician while taking Mandukaparni along with sedatives[4].
Recommended Dosage of Mandukaparni
- Mandukaparni Capsule - 1 capsule twice a day or directed by a physician.
- Mandukaparni Powder - 1-3 gm twice a day or as directed by a physician.
How to use Mandukaparni
1. Mandukaparni Powder
a. Take 1-3 gm (or as directed by a physician) of Mandukaparni powder.
b. Add some honey to it.
c. Take once or twice a day after meals to improve mental alertness.
2. Mandukaparni (Gotu Kola) Capsules
a. Take 1 Mandukaparni capsule (or directed by a physician).
b. Swallow it with lukewarm water or milk once or twice a day after meals to manage the symptoms of anxiety.
a. Take 1-3 gm (or as directed by a physician) of Mandukaparni powder.
b. Add some honey to it.
c. Take once or twice a day after meals to improve mental alertness.
2. Mandukaparni (Gotu Kola) Capsules
a. Take 1 Mandukaparni capsule (or directed by a physician).
b. Swallow it with lukewarm water or milk once or twice a day after meals to manage the symptoms of anxiety.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Yes, Mandukaparni extract is used as an ingredient in cosmetics[14].
Modern Science View
To make Mandukaparni tea-
1. Take ½ teaspoon of fresh or dried Gotu kola (Mandukaparni) leaves per cup of water.
2. Pour boiling water into it and cover with a lid.
3. Let the herb infuse for 10 to 15 minutes. Remember that the longer you let the herbs steep, the stronger the tea will be.
4. Strain the leaves and serve the tea hot.
1. Take ½ teaspoon of fresh or dried Gotu kola (Mandukaparni) leaves per cup of water.
2. Pour boiling water into it and cover with a lid.
3. Let the herb infuse for 10 to 15 minutes. Remember that the longer you let the herbs steep, the stronger the tea will be.
4. Strain the leaves and serve the tea hot.
Modern Science View
Although there is confusion regarding the similarity between Gotu kola (Mandukaparni) and Brahmi, but they are not the same. They are taken in different doses and each possesses different benefits and side effects. Consult a physician for advice before taking either Brahmi or Gotu kola (Mandukaparni).
Modern Science View
Yes, they Gotu kola and pennywort are the same - these are the different names given to Mandukaparni. Gotu kola is also known as Asiatic Pennywort or Indian Pennywort. This herb is famous for its medicinal as well as culinary uses.
Modern Science View
Mandukparni/Gotu kola is known to show wound healing benefits. Apart from that, it has a stronghold in treating various skin conditions such as leprosy, lupus, varicose ulcers, eczema and psoriasis. It can also be used to re-vitalize the brain and nervous system, increase attention span and concentration[5].
References
- The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Of India.Part 1 Volume 1.
- Shaival RP, Shaival KR.Review on Centella asiatica: A Wonder Drug.Int j pharm.2012;1(3):1369-1375.
- Arora D,Kumar D, Dubey SD.Centella asiatica - A review of its medicinal uses and pharmacological effects.J Nat Med.2002;2(2):143-149.
- WebMD.Mandukparni: Uses, Side effects, Doses, Interactions [Internet].Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
- Gohil KJ, Patel JA, Gajjar AK.Pharmacological Review on Centella asiatica: A Potential Herbal Cure-all.Indian J Pharm Sci. 2010;72(5): 546–556.
- Chandra J, Joshi H, Bahuguna P, et al.Experimental studies on Centella asiatica for anxiolytic activity in rats.Scholars academic journal of biosciences.2013;1(6):283-289.
- Puttarak P, Dilokthornsakul P, Saokaew S, et al.Effects of Centella Asiatica (L.) Urb. on cognitive function and mood related outcomes : A systematic review and meta-analysis.Scientific reports.2017;7(10646): 1-12.
- Lestari AB, Fudholi A, Nugroho AK, et al. In vitro antiplatelet aggregation activity of Centella asiatica (L.) urban ethanolic extract.IJPCR.2016;8(4):280-283.
- Kabir AU, Samad MB, D’Costa NM, et al.Anti-hyperglycemic activity of Centella Asiatica is partly mediated by carbohydrase inhibition and glucose-fiber binding.BioMed Central.2014;14(31):2-14.
- B Antony, G Santhakumari, B Merina, et al.Hepatoprotective effect of Centella asiatica (L) in carbon tetrachloride-induced liver injury in rats.Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences.2006;68(6):772-776.
- Touyz RM, Lopes RA, Rios FJ, et al.Vascular smooth muscle contraction in hypertension.Cardiovascular Research.2018;114(4):529-539.
- Sharma S, Thakur SC. Centella asiatica extract protects against both inflammation and oxidative stress in collagen-induced arthritis rat model.Journal of Natural Science.2011;2(3):117.
- G Visweswari, P Siva, V Lokanatha, et al.The antiepileptic effect on Centella asiatica on the activities of Na+/K+ , Mg2+ and Ca2+ - ATPases in rat brain during pentylenetetrazol- induced epilepsy.Indian Journal of Pharmacology.2010;42(2):82-86.
- Bylka W, Awizen PZ, Sroka ES, et al.Centella asiatica in Dermatology: an overview.Phytotherapy Research.2014;28(8):1117-1124.
- Bylka W, Znajdek-Awiżeń P, Studzińska-Sroka E, and Brzezińska M. Centella asiatica in cosmetology. Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2013 Feb; 30(1): 46–49.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.