Parnayavani (Coleus amboinicus) in Ayurveda: A Comprehensive Analysis

1. Most Accountable Disease in Ayurveda: Shwasa (Respiratory Disorders – especially Tamaka Shwasa / Bronchial Asthma)

In Ayurvedic medicine, Parnayavani (Coleus amboinicus), also known as Indian Borage or Patharchur, is most accountable and beneficial in the management of Tamaka Shwasa—bronchial asthma. This chronic respiratory condition is characterized by dyspnea (difficulty in breathing), coughing, chest tightness, and wheezing, all of which are aggravated during Vata-Kapha vitiation.

Pathology of Tamaka Shwasa (Bronchial Asthma): According to Ayurveda, Tamaka Shwasa is caused by the aggravation of Vata and Kapha doshas. Vata initiates spasmodic movements while Kapha obstructs the respiratory tract due to its heaviness and stickiness. This combined doshic imbalance results in airway obstruction, excessive mucus production, and breathing difficulties.

Medicinal Actions of Parnayavani in Tamaka Shwasa:

• Shwasahara (Anti-asthmatic): Clears Kapha from the airways.

• Kaphaghna (Kapha-reducing): Reduces mucus formation.

• Vatanulomana (Regulates Vata): Relieves bronchial spasms.

• Shothahara (Anti-inflammatory): Reduces inflammation in bronchial passages.

• Jwaraghna (Antipyretic): Useful when asthma is associated with fever.

• Kasa hara (Anti-tussive): Controls persistent coughing.

Mode of Action in Ayurveda: Parnayavani pacifies Vata and Kapha doshas. It unblocks obstructed Pranavaha Srotas (respiratory channels) and enhances Udana Vayu’s function. It also increases Agni (digestive fire), helping in Ama pachana (removal of toxins), which is often an underlying cause in chronic respiratory disorders.

Dhatu Involved: Prana Vaha Srotas (Respiratory system), Rasa Dhatu (lymph and plasma), and Rakta Dhatu (blood) are most impacted. By regulating these, the herb brings about homeostasis.

2. Pharmacognosy of Parnayavani (Coleus amboinicus):

• Family: Lamiaceae

• Botanical Name: Coleus amboinicus Lour.

• Sanskrit Name: Parnayavani / Ajwain Patra

• Morphology: A succulent aromatic herb with fleshy, ovate leaves, and soft hairs.

• Distribution: Native to India, Sri Lanka, and tropical Asia; commonly cultivated in household gardens.

• Parts Used: Leaves

• Rasa (Taste): Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter)

• Guna (Qualities): Laghu (Light), Tikshna (Sharp), Snigdha (Unctuous)

• Virya (Potency): Ushna (Hot)

• Vipaka (Post-digestive Effect): Katu (Pungent)

• Prabhava (Special Effect): Effective Kapha-Vata pacifier

3. Different Names in Various Languages:

• Sanskrit: Parnayavani, Ajwain Patra

• Hindi: Patharchur, Patta Ajwain

• Tamil: Karpooravalli

• Malayalam: Panikoorka

• Kannada: Doddapatre

• Telugu: Karpuravalli

• English: Indian Borage, Country Borage

4. Chemical Constituents:

• Carvacrol

• Thymol

• Eugenol

• Beta-Caryophyllene

• Camphor

• Flavonoids

• Alkaloids

• Tannins

• Essential oils These phytochemicals impart antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, and bronchodilator properties.

5. 10 Diseases and Conditions Where It Is Used in Ayurveda:

1. Tamaka Shwasa (Bronchial Asthma): Effective in reducing breathlessness, cough, and wheezing by pacifying Vata-Kapha.

2. Kasa (Cough): Its expectorant and anti-tussive properties clear mucus and soothe the respiratory tract.

3. Jwara (Fever): Possesses antipyretic properties due to its ushna virya and tikta rasa.

4. Amlapitta (Hyperacidity): Its Tikta rasa helps in reducing excessive Pitta and provides relief from heartburn.

5. Agnimandya (Digestive Weakness): Stimulates appetite, enhances Agni (digestive fire).

6. Aruchi (Anorexia): Improves taste perception and enhances salivary secretion.

7. Atisara (Diarrhea): Due to its Grahi (absorbent) property, it helps to absorb excess fluid in the intestines.

8. Krimi Roga (Intestinal Worms): Its anthelmintic properties help eliminate parasitic worms.

9. Galagraha (Throat infections): Antibacterial action helps in soothing throat inflammation.

10. Vata-Kapha Janya Mukharoga (Oral Diseases): Acts as a mouthwash for halitosis, dental plaque, and ulcers.

6. 10 Ayurvedic Medications Containing Parnayavani:

1. Pathyadi Kwatha – Used in headache and respiratory conditions.

2. Shwasananda Gulika – Effective in chronic asthma and breathlessness.

3. Agnitundi Vati – Enhances digestion and appetite.

4. Chitrakadi Vati – Indicated in indigestion and flatulence.

5. Swasari Ras – Treats respiratory diseases.

6. Jwarantaka Kadha – Used in reducing fever.

7. Hingvadi Churna – Treats colic and abdominal distension.

8. Sudarsana Churna – Antipyretic and anti-inflammatory action.

9. Vyoshadi Vatakam – In respiratory and throat disorders.

10. Trikatu Churna (Modified) – Used in certain proprietary formulations with Parnayavani to manage respiratory congestion.

7. Home Remedies Using Parnayavani:

1. Leaf Juice with Honey: Used for cough and sore throat.

2. Leaf Paste with Turmeric: Applied externally for insect bites and boils.

3. Steam Inhalation with Leaves: Relieves nasal congestion.

4. Tea made with Leaves and Ginger: Effective in treating cold and mild fever.

5. Parnayavani Juice with Buttermilk: Given for indigestion and flatulence.

6. Chutney with Parnayavani and Garlic: Improves appetite and digestion.

7. Leaf Decoction: For managing chronic respiratory conditions.

8. Chewing Raw Leaf: Soothes sore throat and freshens breath.

9. Oil Infusion with Leaves: Applied to chest for asthma relief.

10. Paste for Scalp: Used traditionally to relieve headaches and sinusitis.

8. Harmful Effects and Contraindications:

• Should be avoided in Pitta-dominant disorders due to its Ushna Virya.

• Not advisable in pregnancy in excess, due to its uterine stimulant effect.

• High doses may cause nausea or gastric irritation.

• May interact with diuretic and antihypertensive medications.

9. Relevance as a Grahi Dravya (Absorbent Herb): Parnayavani holds significant value as a Grahi Dravya in Ayurvedic therapeutics. Grahi herbs absorb excess moisture and stabilize digestion and intestinal function. Parnayavani’s Grahi property stems from its tikta and katu rasa, ushna virya, and its ability to regulate and stimulate Agni without aggravating Pitta when used moderately. It helps in the management of Atisara, Pravahika (dysentery), and Grahani Roga (malabsorption syndromes).

It also serves as an adjunctive herb in formulations for treating chronic IBS-like symptoms where absorption needs to be improved without further irritating the gut lining.

Conclusion: Parnayavani (Coleus amboinicus) is a household herb that exemplifies the Ayurvedic approach to healing through balancing doshas, enhancing Agni, and restoring physiological functions via its unique rasa-guna-virya-vipaka profile. Its relevance in respiratory disorders, especially Tamaka Shwasa, highlights its potent therapeutic nature. In a modern context, it bridges the gap between home remedies and formal Ayurvedic formulations, serving as an accessible yet powerful plant ally in holistic wellness.