Snuhi (Euphorbia neriifolia) in Ayurveda: A Comprehensive Study

Introduction

Snuhi (Euphorbia neriifolia), commonly known as Indian Spurge, is a significant medicinal plant in Ayurveda. It belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family and is renowned for its Tikshna Virechana (strong purgative) properties. It is used extensively in Ayurvedic detoxification therapies due to its ability to eliminate deep-seated toxins and balance aggravated Kapha and Vata doshas.

Primary Disease Where Snuhi is Most Accountable in Ayurveda

Disease: Arsha (Hemorrhoids)

Arsha (hemorrhoids or piles) is a condition where swollen blood vessels in the rectal area cause pain, discomfort, and bleeding. According to Ayurveda, it is caused by an imbalance of Vata and Kapha doshas, leading to stagnation of Mala (waste) and obstruction in the anal region.

Medicinal Actions of Snuhi in Arsha

1. Virechana (Strong Purgative): Promotes elimination of Mala (stagnant fecal matter), reducing pile mass.

2. Deepana (Digestive Stimulant): Enhances Agni (digestive fire), preventing accumulation of toxins.

3. Shothahara (Anti-inflammatory): Reduces swelling and inflammation in hemorrhoids.

4. Raktashodhana (Blood Purifier): Removes toxins from blood, preventing recurrence of piles.

5. Krimighna (Antimicrobial): Prevents secondary infections in hemorrhoidal wounds.

6. Vedanasthapana (Pain Reliever): Reduces pain and discomfort associated with piles.

7. Stambhana (Astringent): Helps in stopping excessive bleeding in bleeding piles (Raktaja Arsha).

Pathology of Arsha in Ayurveda

According to Ayurveda, Arsha is caused by an imbalance in Vata and Kapha doshas, leading to obstruction in the anal region, reduced digestive fire (Agnimandya), and accumulation of waste.

Pathogenesis (Samprapti) of Arsha:

1. Nidana (Causative Factors): Constipation, excessive consumption of heavy foods, sedentary lifestyle.

2. Dosha Involvement:

   • Vata aggravation leads to dryness and hardness of stool.

   • Kapha accumulation causes swelling and obstruction.

3. Sthana Samshraya (Location of Disease): Anorectal region.

4. Vyakti (Manifestation): Pain, bleeding, itching, and swelling in the anal region.

5. Bheda (Complications): Chronic piles, anal fissures, and infections.

Pharmacognosy of Snuhi (Euphorbia neriifolia)

1. Botanical Name: Euphorbia neriifolia

2. Family: Euphorbiaceae

3. Plant Part Used: Latex, leaves, root, stem

4. Taste (Rasa): Katu (pungent), Tikta (bitter)

5. Potency (Veerya): Ushna (hot)

6. Post-digestive effect (Vipaka): Katu (pungent)

7. Properties (Guna): Tikshna (sharp), Laghu (light), Ruksha (dry)

Mode of Action in Ayurveda

Snuhi primarily balances Kapha and Vata doshas while aggravating Pitta due to its hot potency. It acts as a powerful Virechana (purgative), eliminating accumulated waste and toxins from the gastrointestinal tract. It also promotes Agnideepana (enhancing digestive fire), preventing further accumulation of undigested food.

Different Names in Various Languages

• Sanskrit: Snuhi, Vajradanti

• Hindi: Sehund

• Tamil: Kalli

• Telugu: Nallajilledu

• Kannada: Siju

• Gujarati: Thor

• Bengali: Akanda

• Marathi: Dudhali

• English: Indian Spurge, Milk Hedge

Chemical Constituents

• Euphol

• Flavonoids

• Alkaloids

• Tannins

• Saponins

• Glycosides

Diseases and Conditions Where Snuhi is Used in Ayurveda

1. Arsha (Hemorrhoids): Reduces pile mass, pain, and bleeding.

2. Gulma (Abdominal Tumors): Helps in reducing abnormal growths.

3. Udara Roga (Ascites & Abdominal Disorders): Removes excess fluid accumulation.

4. Kushta Roga (Skin Diseases): Treats eczema, psoriasis, and leprosy.

5. Pleeha Roga (Splenomegaly): Beneficial for spleen enlargement.

6. Yakrit Vikara (Liver Disorders): Effective in cirrhosis and jaundice.

7. Shotha (Edema): Reduces fluid retention.

8. Prameha (Diabetes): Helps regulate blood sugar levels.

9. Krimi Roga (Parasitic Infections): Eliminates intestinal worms.

10. Vata Roga (Neurological Disorders): Used in nerve-related conditions.

Ayurvedic Medications Using Snuhi as an Ingredient

1. Snuhi Ghrita – Used in digestive disorders and detoxification.

2. Snuhi Taila – External application for skin diseases.

3. Triphala Guggulu – Detoxifies blood and improves digestion.

4. Avipattikar Churna – Treats hyperacidity.

5. Panchakol Churna – Promotes digestive fire.

6. Snuhi Kwatha – Detoxifying decoction.

7. Snuhi Rasayana – Strengthens metabolism and immunity.

8. Snuhi Arishta – Treats abdominal and liver disorders.

9. Panchatikta Ghrita Guggulu – Skin and liver conditions.

10. Snuhi Vati – Used for constipation relief.

Home Remedies Using Snuhi

1. Piles Remedy: Snuhi latex mixed with ghee and applied externally reduces swelling.

2. Digestive Tonic: Snuhi root powder with warm water improves digestion.

3. Skin Detox Paste: Snuhi leaf paste applied to eczema heals skin.

4. Anti-Parasitic Remedy: Snuhi seed powder with honey eliminates worms.

5. Hemorrhoid Treatment: Snuhi root paste applied externally.

Harmful Effects and Contraindications

• Excess use causes severe diarrhea and dehydration.

• Not recommended for pregnant women due to its intense purgative action.

• Can cause gastric irritation if taken in excess.

• Should be used under medical supervision.

Snuhi as a Tikshna Virechana Dravya in Ayurveda

Snuhi is classified as a Tikshna Virechana Dravya (strong purgative herb) in Ayurveda. It is widely used in Panchakarma therapies for deep detoxification, eliminating Ama (toxins) and balancing doshas.

Conclusion

Snuhi (Euphorbia neriifolia) is a powerful Ayurvedic herb known for its Tikshna Virechana properties. It is primarily used in treating Arsha (hemorrhoids) and various digestive disorders. Its strong cleansing action makes it an essential herb in Panchakarma therapies for detoxification and disease prevention.