This book is structured into five chapters and the chapters are called ‘Pushpa’ (flowers). It encompasses the characteristics and therapeutic actions of 80 flowers as described in Nighantus and similar literature. The utilization of flowers in the daily regime for preserving health is given. A comprehensive overview of the therapeutic uses of flowers across 45 medical conditions is presented in the book. Flowers are predominantly beneficial in cases of pitta aggravation, intrinsic haemorrhage, ocular ailments, and poisoning incidents. The concluding chapter delineates the diverse pharmaceutical formulations employing flowers.
Book insides
The first chapter (Elucidation of Flower), deliberates on the etymology of the term 'Pushpa' and its synonyms, the various phases and components of a flower, and the variations in its structure and hue. It further elucidates the blooming periods and harvesting schedules of different flowers like Kinshuka (Butea monosperma Taub.) and Ashoka (Saraca asoca Roxb de Wilde). Additionally, the chapter incorporates discussions on the toxicity, symptoms of toxicity, and their remedies. In this chapter, emphasis was given to five specific poisonous flowers like Vetra (Calamus travancorius Bedd. ex Becc.) and Kadamba (Neolamarckia cadamba Roxb.).
In the second chapter (Attributes and Functions of Flowers), the author has cataloged flowers referenced in the 50 Mahakashaya of Charaka Samhita and the 37 Gana of Sushruta Samhita. Among the Mahakashaya, Mutravirajaniya (urinary depigmenter), Purishsangrahaniya (fecal astringent), Purishvirajaniya (fecal depigmenter), and Daha Prashamana (pacifying burning sensation) Mahakashaya groups include flowers. Whereas in Sushruta Samhita, the names of flowers appear mainly in the Utpaladi, Priyangvadi, Eladi, and Pittasanmshamana (pacifying pitta) categories. In this chapter, the therapeutic properties of 80 flowers along with their Rasapanchaka[6] (five attributes of dravya beginning with taste) are also enumerated. The third chapter (Uses of Flowers in Health), delves into the various ways in which flowers can be utilized for enhancing well-being. It highlights the diverse range of uses of flowers apart from their medicinal properties, such as adorning interiors, beautifying dining spaces, infusing fragrance into water, and dyeing fabrics.
Additionally, the chapter emphasizes the importance of flowers as one of the eight auspicious items to admire during the early hours of the day and before meals. It also discusses the cosmetic applications of flowers, like ointments/oils and perfumes. Furthermore, the chapter explains how flowers are incorporated into daily practices like Nasya (errhine therapy), Dhoomapana (therapeutic smoking), and Shiro-Abhyanga (therapeutic oil massage to head). It also briefly explores the tradition of adorning oneself with flowers based on seasonal variations.
In the fourth chapter (Therapeutic uses of flowers), the author thoroughly explores the therapeutic uses of flowers in treating 45 different health conditions. He elaborates on the use of flowers in various formulations for conditions such as fever, diarrhoea, haemorrhoids, urinary disorders, heart diseases, and skin diseases. For instance, he suggests the use of Madhuka (Madhuca indica), Utpala (Nymphaea alba Linn.), and Vasa (Adhatoda vasica) flowers in treating fever, and Dhataki (Woodfordia fruticosa), Madhuka (Madhuca indica), and Utpala (Nymphaea alba Linn.) for diarrhea. Additionally, he discusses the use of flowers in formulations for conditions like haemorrhoids, liver and spleen disorders, vomiting, mental disorders, dental issues, and eye diseases. Moreover, he also highlights the use of flowers in formulations for conditions related to women's health, pediatric care, poisoning, rejuvenation therapy, aphrodisiac therapy, and cleansing therapy.
The numerous medicinal forms of flowers are the subject of the fifth chapter (Pharmaceutical forms of flowers). The author describes seventeen distinct pharmaceutical forms of flowers, such as liquid extracts, powders, decoctions, fermented preparations, medicated oils, and confections. He also discusses the use of flowers in dietary preparations, such as soups, vegetable meals, drinks, and herbal teas.
Conclusion
The author’s thorough research highlights the significance of 80 flowers in daily and seasonal routines in addition to exploring their therapeutic benefits. He offers useful applications, like cooling beds in the summer with banana leaves, Kamala, and Utpala flowers. This groundbreaking study sheds new light on the practical significance of medicinal plants, specifically focusing on the beauty and beneficial properties of flowers.
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