Bhaandir (Clerodendrum infortunatum): A Comprehensive Ayurvedic Study

1. Most Accountable Disease in Ayurveda: Krimi Roga (Parasitic Infestation)

Bhaandir (Clerodendrum infortunatum), also known as Bhant in Sanskrit, is most significantly used in Ayurveda for treating Krimi Roga—a condition broadly referring to parasitic infestations, including internal intestinal worms, external parasites, and microbial infections. The ancient Ayurvedic texts like Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita highlight the importance of Krimighna Dravyas (anti-parasitic herbs), and Bhaandir occupies a prominent place in this category.

Pathology of Krimi Roga (Parasitic Infestation) in Ayurveda: In Ayurveda, Krimi Roga arises due to an imbalance in doshas (particularly Kapha and Pitta), leading to the manifestation of internal or external parasites. The overproduction of Ama (toxins) due to Mandagni (weak digestive fire) creates a conducive environment for krimi (parasites) to thrive. There are two major types:

• Internal Krimi: Caused by disturbed Pitta and Kapha, affecting the intestines, blood, and tissues.

• External Krimi: Caused by Vata aggravation and unhygienic conditions, affecting skin, eyes, ears, etc.

Bhaandir acts through its tikta (bitter) and kashaya (astringent) rasa, katu vipaka, and ushna virya. It purifies the blood, destroys intestinal parasites, and reduces the symptoms associated with Krimi Roga.

Medicinal Actions in Krimi Roga:

• Krimighna (Antiparasitic): Destroys both internal and external parasites.

• Raktashodhaka (Blood purifier): Clears the toxins in blood that contribute to parasitic proliferation.

• Deepana (Digestive stimulant): Enhances Agni, reducing the formation of Ama.

• Kaphahara and Pittahara: Reduces kapha and pitta aggravation that encourage krimi development.

• Shothahara (Anti-inflammatory): Reduces inflammation in the intestinal lining.

• Vedanasthapana (Analgesic): Provides relief from pain caused by parasite movement and intestinal colic.

Pharmacognosy of Bhaandir (Clerodendrum infortunatum):

• Family: Verbenaceae

• Botanical Description: A small shrub growing up to 2-3 meters, with large ovate leaves and pale violet or pinkish flowers.

• Habitat: Found throughout India, especially in tropical and subtropical regions.

• Useful Parts: Leaves, roots, bark, and flowers

• Microscopy: Shows multicellular trichomes, calcium oxalate crystals, and pitted vessels in root sections.

Chemical Constituents:

• Clerodin (diterpene lactone)

• Scutellarin

• Clerosterol

• Flavonoids

• Tannins

• Saponins

• Steroids

• Alkaloids

These constituents are primarily responsible for anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-helminthic, and analgesic actions.

Mode of Action in Krimi Roga (Ayurveda):

• On Doshas: Bhaandir pacifies Kapha and Pitta and assists in clearing Ama.

• On Dhatus: Primarily affects Rasa and Rakta dhatu, purifying them and preventing further spread of toxins and krimi.

• Srotas: Clears the Annavaha srotas (digestive tract) and Raktavaha srotas (circulatory system).

• Agni: Improves digestive fire, thereby checking the formation of ama.

Different Names in Various Languages:

• Sanskrit: Bhant, Bhandira, Aranyatulasi

• Hindi: Bhant, Bhanti

• Tamil: Tazhutazhai

• Malayalam: Kurinji

• Kannada: Gantagalagara

• Bengali: Bhant

• Marathi: Bhamni

• Telugu: Devakanchanam

Diseases and Conditions Where Bhaandir is Useful:

1. Krimi Roga: Destroys intestinal and skin parasites.

2. Vrana (Wounds/Ulcers): Promotes healing through anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial actions.

3. Kustha (Skin Diseases): Used for eczema, dermatitis, and leprosy due to detoxifying and blood-purifying action.

4. Jvara (Fever): Reduces intermittent and chronic fevers, especially malarial types.

5. Shotha (Inflammation/Edema): Alleviates localized or general inflammation.

6. Arsha (Piles): Helps in reducing inflammation and bleeding associated with hemorrhoids.

7. Kasa (Cough): Acts as expectorant and antimicrobial.

8. Agnimandya (Loss of Appetite): Stimulates digestion and appetite.

9. Shula (Colic Pain): Useful in intestinal spasms due to its analgesic properties.

10. Vishamjwara (Intermittent Fever): Often used in formulations for treating periodic fevers.

Ten Ayurvedic Medications Using Bhaandir:

1. Krimimudgar Rasa

2. Bhandiradi Kashaya

3. Aragvadhadi Gana Kashaya

4. Panchtikta Ghrita Guggulu

5. Mahamanjishthadi Kwatha

6. Khadirarishta

7. Guduchyadi Kashaya

8. Krumighna Vati

9. Patolakaturohinyadi Kashayam

10. Nimbadi Kashaya

Home Remedies Involving Bhaandir:

• Worm Infestation: Juice of leaves (5-10 ml) mixed with honey is administered on an empty stomach for 3–5 days.

• Skin Disorders: Paste of leaves applied locally for eczema, boils, and fungal infections.

• Fever: Decoction made from leaves and roots with Tulsi and Guduchi is given twice daily.

• Wound Healing: Powdered root mixed with turmeric applied topically to chronic wounds.

• Piles: Root decoction taken internally and leaf paste applied externally to relieve pain and swelling.

Harmful Effects and Contraindications:

• Pregnancy: Not recommended due to uterine stimulant properties.

• Excessive Use: May cause nausea, vomiting, or loose motions.

• Children: Dose adjustment is essential; avoid high doses.

• Allergic Reactions: Rare, but skin application should be tested first on a small patch.

Relevance as Krimighna Dravya in Ayurveda: Bhaandir is one of the most potent Krimighna dravyas classified in Ayurvedic Nighantus. Its bitter and astringent qualities combined with ushna veerya destroy parasitic organisms by drying their habitat, correcting digestive imbalance, and purifying blood. It is especially emphasized in treating children’s worm infestations, contaminated wounds, and chronic skin infections. The herb’s inclusion in Krimighna formulations reflects its strong tridosha-pacifying and detoxifying nature.

Conclusion: Bhaandir (Clerodendrum infortunatum) stands as a remarkable herb in Ayurvedic medicine, especially valued for its Krimighna (anti-parasitic) properties. Its holistic actions on doshas, dhatus, and srotas make it a comprehensive healer in a range of pathological conditions. With its combination of therapeutic bitterness and potent detoxifying capabilities, it continues to be an essential ingredient in classical Ayurvedic formulations and home remedies alike. However, judicious use under the guidance of a Vaidya is vital due to its strong pharmacological effects.