Detailed Ayurvedic Monograph on Mayaphal (Quercus incana)

1. Disease Focus: Prameha (Diabetes Mellitus)

Mayaphal (Quercus incana), commonly known as “Indian Oak” or “Gray Oak,” holds significant therapeutic value in Ayurveda, particularly in the management of Prameha (a group of metabolic disorders primarily referring to Diabetes Mellitus). In Ayurvedic texts, Prameha is classified under Madhumeha, a condition that arises due to vitiation of Kapha and Medas (fat), leading to deranged metabolism and excessive urination with sweetness.

Pathology of Prameha in Ayurveda:

According to Ayurveda, Prameha is caused by the imbalance of Kapha dosha, aggravated by sedentary lifestyle, excessive intake of heavy, oily, sweet foods, and lack of exercise. The aggravated Kapha impairs the digestive fire (Agni), leading to accumulation of Ama (toxins). This results in improper metabolism, especially of Medo dhatu (fat tissue), leading to the production of turbid urine and wasting of other tissues (Dhatu kshaya).

Medicinal Actions of Mayaphal in Prameha:

• Kaphahara: Mayaphal helps in pacifying Kapha, which is a primary dosha involved in Prameha.

• Stambhana: Its astringent (Kashaya) and cooling (Sheeta) properties make it ideal for halting excessive discharge, such as in polyuria seen in diabetes.

• Medohara: It reduces fat tissue, thus addressing one of the root causes of Prameha.

• Deepana & Pachana: Improves digestion and reduces Ama formation.

• Mutrasangrahaniya: It checks excessive urination due to its astringent nature.

2. Pharmacognosy of Mayaphal (Quercus incana):

• Botanical Name: Quercus incana

• Family: Fagaceae

• Sanskrit Name: Mayaphal

• Part Used: Galls (formed due to insect infestation)

• Taste (Rasa): Kashaya (Astringent)

• Potency (Veerya): Sheeta (Cooling)

• Post-digestive Effect (Vipaka): Katu

• Effect on Doshas: Balances Kapha and Pitta

Identification Features:

• Medium-sized tree found in temperate Himalayan regions.

• Galls appear as hard, irregularly shaped growths on the plant due to insect infestation.

• Bark is grayish, leaves are oblong-lanceolate.

3. Mode of Action in Prameha:

Dosha Impact: Primarily pacifies Kapha and Pitta. Reduces excessive Medas and clears Ama, which are key players in Prameha pathology.

Dhatu Impact: Helps in normalizing the function of Medo dhatu, while also protecting Mamsa and Shukra dhatu from depletion.

Srotas (Body Channels): Acts on Mootravaha srotas (urinary channels), Medovaha srotas (fat carrying channels), and Rasavaha srotas (nutrient-carrying channels).

4. Names in Different Languages:

• Sanskrit: Mayaphal

• Hindi: Mayaphal, Majuphal

• Punjabi: Majuphal

• Gujarati: Majitho

• Marathi: Majuphala

• Tamil: Masikai

• Telugu: Masikai

• Kannada: Masikai

• English: Indian Gall Oak, Gray Oak

5. Chemical Constituents:

• Tannins (50-70%) – Chief bioactive compound

• Gallic acid

• Ellagic acid

• Quercetin

• Flavonoids

• Polyphenols

6. Diseases and Conditions Where Mayaphal is Useful:

1. Prameha (Diabetes) – Controls excessive urination, reduces Kapha and Medas.

2. Atisara (Diarrhea) – Astringent property stops watery stools and restores gut tone.

3. Raktapradara (Menorrhagia) – Acts as a hemostatic agent by contracting uterine blood vessels.

4. Shwetapradara (Leucorrhoea) – Useful in curbing white discharge due to its drying and astringent action.

5. Mukhapaka (Stomatitis) – Gargling with decoction reduces inflammation and heals mouth ulcers.

6. Krimi Roga (Parasitic Infections) – Antimicrobial properties aid in eradicating intestinal worms.

7. Danta Roga (Dental issues) – Used in tooth powders for bleeding gums and bad breath.

8. Yoni Roga (Gynecological disorders) – Used in vaginal douches for infections and discharges.

9. Vrana (Wounds) – Promotes healing due to its antiseptic and astringent effects.

10. Trishna (Excessive Thirst) – Due to its coolant nature, it alleviates burning and dryness.

7. Ayurvedic Medications Containing Mayaphal:

1. Majuphaladi Churna – For oral health and stomatitis.

2. Pushyanuga Churna – Used in gynecological disorders.

3. Ashokarishta – For menorrhagia and uterine disorders.

4. Patrangasava – Effective in white discharge and menstrual irregularities.

5. Chandraprabha Vati – For urinary and reproductive disorders.

6. Yonipichu Taila – For intravaginal use in leucorrhoea.

7. Majuphal Taila – Local application for skin conditions.

8. Triphala Ghrita – In some variants for oral ulcers and infections.

9. Jatyadi Taila – Used for wound healing and ulcers.

10. Majuphal Ghanvati – Tablet form for diarrhea and excessive urination.

8. Home Remedies Associated with Mayaphal:

• For Diarrhea: Powdered Mayaphal (500 mg) with honey twice a day.

• For Mouth Ulcers: Gargle with decoction of Mayaphal twice a day.

• For Leucorrhoea: Decoction used as vaginal douche.

• For Bleeding Gums: Rub powder with honey or use as toothpaste.

• For Diabetic Urine Flow: Mayaphal decoction taken on empty stomach.

• For Vaginal Tightening: Douche made of boiled Mayaphal water.

• For Skin Ulcers: Apply paste of powdered Mayaphal mixed with turmeric.

• For Tonsillitis: Gargling with Mayaphal decoction relieves pain and inflammation.

9. Harmful Effects and Contraindications:

• Should be avoided in severe constipation due to its drying nature.

• Overuse can cause nutrient malabsorption due to high tannin content.

• Not advised in pregnancy without supervision.

• May interfere with iron absorption.

• Long-term use should be avoided without medical guidance.

10. Relevance as Stambhan Dravya in Ayurveda:

Mayaphal is a prime example of Stambhan Dravya – a substance that arrests excessive flow or discharge from the body. Whether it is blood (Rakta), urine (Mutra), feces (Purisha), or reproductive fluids, Mayaphal helps in controlling abnormal flow through its Kashaya Rasa and Sheeta Veerya. This makes it invaluable in diseases like diarrhea, menorrhagia, and leucorrhoea. In classical texts, it is referenced as part of therapies under Shonitasthapana, Yoni Roga Chikitsa, and Atisara Chikitsa.

Conclusion:

Mayaphal (Quercus incana) is a remarkable herb known for its astringent and cooling properties. As an effective Stambhan Dravya, it plays a crucial role in managing conditions involving excessive discharges, especially Prameha. Its pharmacological actions, chemical richness, and broad therapeutic application make it a valued component in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. However, careful use under the guidance of a qualified practitioner is essential to harness its benefits while avoiding side effects.