Sanjeevani
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Selaginella bryopteris, popularly known as Sanjeevani, is a lythophytic plant with remarkable restorative capabilities.[1] Sanjeevani grows on the hills of tropical areas, particularly the Arawali mountain terrains from east to west in India. It is full of medicinal properties, hence its popular name, "Sanjeevani" (one that infuses life). The dry plants have been used as an effective remedy for several human health complications for centuries in India, particularly in the tribal areas. Briefly, the medicinal uses of S. bryopteris include: (i) relief from heat stroke and the burning sensation during urination; (ii) restorating menstrual irregularities to normal and applied topically to pregnant women, aids easy delivery; and (iii) for treating jaundice.[1]
[edit] History
In Hindu mythology, Sanjeevani is a magical herb which has the power to cure any malady. It is believed that medicines prepared from this herb can even revive a dead person. This herb is mentioned in the Ramayana when, during the battle with Ravana, Lakshmana was wounded and was nearly killed by Ravana's son Indrajit. Hanuman was called upon to fetch this herb from the mount Dronagiri in the Himalayas. Upon reaching mount Meru, Hanuman was unable to identify the herb and decided to lift the entire mountain and brought it to the battle-field.
While some references in scientific literature list Selaginella bryopteris as the Sanjeevani mentioned in Hindu mythology, a search of ancient texts currently underway in CSIR laboratories has so far not revealed any plant that can be totally certified as Sanjeevani.[2]
[edit] References
- ^ a b Sah N K et al., 2005, Indian herb ‘Sanjeevani’ (Selaginella bryopteris) can promote growth and protect against heat shock and apoptotic activities of ultra violet and oxidative stress. Journal of Bioscience , 30, 499–505. http://www.ias.ac.in/jbiosci/sep2005/499.pdf
- ^ Telegraph India http://www.telegraphindia.com/1050929/asp/nation/story_5297959.asp
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