Pilu (Salvadora persica) in Ayurveda: A Comprehensive Study

Introduction

Pilu (Salvadora persica), commonly known as the “Toothbrush tree,” has been widely recognized in Ayurveda for its medicinal properties. It is a potent herb with a variety of applications in the treatment of different ailments. The ancient texts of Ayurveda describe Pilu as a beneficial plant with significant therapeutic properties, particularly in the context of digestive and oral health.

Primary Disease Where Pilu is Most Accountable in Ayurveda

Disease: Krimi Roga (Parasitic Infestation and Worms in Intestines)

Krimi Roga refers to diseases caused by parasitic worms and microbial infections in the intestines. It includes conditions like helminthiasis, bacterial, and fungal infections in the digestive tract. Ayurveda classifies Krimi (worms) into three main categories:

1. Purishaja Krimi (intestinal worms)

2. Raktaja Krimi (bloodborne parasites)

3. Kaphaja Krimi (mucus-based infections)

Medicinal Actions of Pilu in Krimi Roga

1. Krimighna (Anti-parasitic action): Pilu effectively eliminates intestinal parasites due to its potent anthelmintic properties.

2. Deepana & Pachana (Digestive and carminative actions): Enhances digestive fire (Agni), preventing the accumulation of undigested food that fosters parasitic growth.

3. Shodhana (Detoxifying effect): Pilu acts as a natural detoxifier by expelling toxins and parasitic waste from the intestines.

4. Raktashodhaka (Blood purifier): Useful in Raktaja Krimi as it cleanses blood impurities that promote microbial growth.

5. Virechana (Purgative action): Helps in expelling parasites and toxins through the stool, making it useful in Virechana therapy.

6. Kaphanashaka (Mucus-reducing effect): Useful in mucus-related infections caused by Kaphaja Krimi.

Pathology of Krimi Roga in Ayurveda

According to Ayurveda, Krimi Roga originates from improper digestion (Agnimandya), accumulation of Ama (toxins), and imbalance of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas. The improper lifestyle, excessive intake of heavy, sweet, and improperly digested food leads to the development of parasitic infections.

Pathogenesis (Samprapti) of Krimi Roga:

1. Nidana (Causative factors): Excessive consumption of unwholesome food, impure water, and unhygienic habits.

2. Dosha Involvement:

   • Vata aggravation weakens digestive fire and promotes microbial invasion.

   • Kapha dominance creates a sticky environment that supports worm growth.

   • Pitta imbalance leads to inflammation and discomfort in the digestive tract.

3. Sthana Samshraya (Location of disease): Primarily affects the intestines and can spread to blood and other tissues.

4. Vyakti (Manifestation): Symptoms like bloating, nausea, fatigue, diarrhea, and anemia.

5. Bheda (Complications): If untreated, it can lead to severe malnutrition and systemic infections.

Pharmacognosy of Pilu (Salvadora persica)

1. Botanical Name: Salvadora persica

2. Family: Salvadoraceae

3. Plant Part Used: Roots, bark, fruits, leaves

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

5. Potency (Veerya): Ushna (hot)

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

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

Mode of Action in Ayurveda

Pilu primarily pacifies Kapha and Vata doshas while promoting digestive fire (Agni Deepana). It removes Ama (toxins) from the intestines and acts as a natural anthelmintic. It supports Virechana therapy by promoting bowel cleansing, thereby expelling worms and toxins.

Different Names in Various Languages

• Sanskrit: Pilu

• Hindi: Peelu, Miswak

• Tamil: Eluppai

• Telugu: Pogada

• Kannada: Goni

• Arabic: Arak

• Persian: Peelu

Chemical Constituents

• Salvadorine (alkaloid)

• Trimethylamine

• Sulfur compounds

• Tannins

• Benzyl isothiocyanate (antimicrobial agent)

• Flavonoids

Diseases and Conditions Where Pilu is Used in Ayurveda

1. Krimi Roga (Parasitic Infestation) – Eliminates intestinal worms.

2. Aruchi (Loss of Appetite) – Stimulates hunger and digestion.

3. Dantavikara (Oral Diseases) – Used in toothpaste and mouthwash for oral health.

4. Kushta (Skin Diseases) – Detoxifies blood and clears skin infections.

5. Vishamajwara (Intermittent Fever) – Works as an antipyretic.

6. Prameha (Diabetes) – Regulates blood sugar levels.

7. Gandamala (Scrofula/Swollen Lymph Nodes) – Used as an anti-inflammatory agent.

8. Raktapitta (Bleeding Disorders) – Helps in clotting and stops excessive bleeding.

9. Pleeha Roga (Splenomegaly) – Reduces spleen inflammation.

10. Arsha (Hemorrhoids) – Acts as a mild laxative for cleansing bowels.

Ayurvedic Medications Using Pilu as an Ingredient

1. Pilu Taila

2. Pilu Churna

3. Krimighna Kashaya

4. Triphala Pilu Choorna

5. Danta Manjan (Ayurvedic Tooth Powder)

6. Khadiradi Vati

7. Arimedadi Taila

8. Pilu Dravya Kwath

9. Pilu Lepa (For external application)

10. Pilu Parpati

Home Remedies Using Pilu

1. Tooth Powder: Pilu bark powder mixed with rock salt for strong teeth.

2. Deworming Remedy: Pilu fruit powder with honey to eliminate intestinal worms.

3. Oral Health: Pilu twig (Miswak) used for brushing teeth.

4. Digestive Tonic: Pilu root decoction to boost digestion.

5. Wound Healing: Pilu bark paste for skin infections.

Harmful Effects and Contraindications

• Excessive use may cause dehydration and diarrhea.

• Not recommended in pregnancy due to its strong purgative effect.

• Individuals with severe Pitta disorders should use it cautiously.

Pilu as a Virechanopag Dravya in Ayurveda

Pilu is classified as a Virechanopag Dravya (supportive herb in purgation therapy). It promotes gentle but effective bowel cleansing, making it beneficial in Panchakarma therapies.

Conclusion

Pilu (Salvadora persica) is an extraordinary medicinal plant with strong anthelmintic, digestive, and detoxifying properties. It plays a vital role in Krimi Roga, oral health, and Virechana therapy in Ayurveda. Proper usage of Pilu can effectively treat a variety of ailments, supporting a holistic approach to health.