Plantago ovata Forssk.

 

Syn.:

Plantago decumbens Forssk.

Plantago ispaghula Roxb.


Family:    Plantaginaceae


Arabic Name(s): Lisan al-Hamal


Urdu Name(s):   Ispaghul, Ispango, Khardanick, Shkampara,


English Name(s):   Sangpara, Barhang Spogel (seeds), Plantain


Parts Used

      Seeds and husk.

 

Quality/Temperament

 

Cold and moist in second order.

 

Functions and Properties (Pharmacological Actions)

 

Mucilaginous (glutinous), laxative, cooling, demulcent, emollient, some microstatic effects on intestinal micro-organisms are also attributed to the seeds and husk. As simple decoction seeds and husk are referred abundantly as refrigerant and mildly astringent. Generally the plants are also regarded as lubricating, resolvent, local anaesthetic and anti-inflammatory.

 

Specific Action

Glutinous, laxative

 

Medicinal Uses

 

In febrile conditions, catarrhal and renal affections, Ispaghul seeds (husk) have been found serviceable, their chief use is in the treatment of chronic constipation; amoebic and bacillary dysentery and diarrhoea due to irritative conditions of gastro- intestinal tract. Its preparations are given after colostomy to assist the production of a smooth, solid faecal mass. A decoction of seeds is prescribed in cough and cold and the crushed seeds made into poultice applied to rheumatic and glandular swellings. It relieves constipation mechanically by forming bland mucilage which in general possesses the mucilaginous properties, therefore during its passage through intestine, exerts soothing and protective action as demulcent, emollient and lubricant. Seeds in the form of infusion are of value in urethritis, relieve burning sensation accompanied in the disease. An oral hydrophilic colloid derived from seeds (reported to) depress serum cholesterol (9%) below of control.

 

Compound Preparations

 

Dayaquza, Laooq Ab Naishakarwala, Laooq Bihdana, Marham Dakhliyun, Sherbet Arzani, Qurs Tabasheer Kafuri.

 

Dosage

 

3 to 10 g.

 

Corrigent

 

Honey and lemon juice (Citrus limon Linn.).

 

Tenedium

 

Pyrus cydonia Linn. (Bihdana) to produce emollient and cooling effect.

 

Comments

 

Macerated  seeds may produce some toxicity internally.

Excesive use may slow down appetite and digestive activity.